Ice Hard: A New York Nighthawks Novel

This is book #2 in the New York Nighthawks series and Nick George's story. Nick is Christian Chase's best friend and now the best man in his wedding. This story starts at Chris' bachelor party and has Nick wishing for a special relationship of his own. At the bar where the party is held, Nick catches the eye of a bartender, Camille Benetti. Cami is attracted to Nick but has sworn off hockey players because of her past. Cami's dream is to own her family's Italian restaurant but her old-fashioned father won't allow it. Nick keeps pursuing Cami until she finally agrees to be his date for Chris' wedding. What Cami didn't realize was that Nick was playing for keeps and he was going to convince Cami that she belongs with him always. It will take a huge leap of faith from Cami to finally commit to Nick but once she does they have a perfect happy ending. I just adored Nick. He may be tall, sexy and alpha but he is also a squishy teddy bear deep down inside. He was the perfect person to help make Cami's dreams come true. I liked Cami, but at times she was so afraid of her past you just wanted to shake her so she would see what was right in front of her. Luckily she came to her senses quickly. Overall this was a fun addition to this series.

**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review** Tracy Goodwin was a new to me author when I picked up this book, but seeing that it was a hockey romance, I was definitely willing to take a chance and I'm so glad I did! I'm a sucker for hockey heroes and Goodwin gave us a great one! Like many hockey players, Nick George has enjoyed his playboy ways for years, however he's finally reached the point where he's ready to find the one and settle down. He sees what his best friend has found and that's what he wants. He's going to be the best man in his buddy's wedding and instead of taking just anyone as his date, he wants to take someone who means something to him. When he sees Camille Benatti at the bar, he decides she is what he wants, but that may be more difficult than he initially thought. Camille Benatti works at the restaurant that her family owns and she has big dreams for her future. She's feisty, driven and she goes after what she wants in an unapologetic way. She know that Nick finds her attractive and it isn't that she doesn't return the feelings, but she has a hard no dating hockey player rules and she's not about to break it. She's been hurt in the past and once was enough for her. When Nick begins to try to woo Cami, it's so much fun to witness. Cami is trying as hard as she can to deny the sparks that are flying between them, while Nick is working overtime to convince her that he isn't the kind of guy she's used to. Will he succeed and make it past the walls she's built? I absolutely loved both of these characters. Nick was genuine, and he was the kind of guy who wanted an equal, not someone he would dominate. Cami was strong and she knew what she wanted and what she didn't. The fact she was finally willing to take a chance on Nick once he woo'd her was great to see. I enjoyed this book a lot and while it was my first Tracy Goodwin books, it will not be my last!

Tracy Goodwin has a clutch performance with Ice Hard (New York Nighthawks, #2). This is Nick George’s and Camille Benetti’s story. Nick is the best friend and teammate of Christian Chase (New York Nighthawks #1). The book starts out at Christian's bachelor party. Nick is Christian’s best man. After watching Christian and Serena, Nick realizes he wants a meaningful relationship; then he meets Camille. The two hit it off, but Camille wants nothing to do with a hockey player. This contemporary sports romance is suitable for adult readers. Ice Hard is a heartwarming story. Nick wants someone whom he can be himself around. Camille had things happen in her past that hurt her confidence. The two have great chemistry and a lot in common. I enjoyed their sarcastic personalities and love of music. They have emotional obstacles to overcome. I like how the characters grew throughout the story. Ice Hard is well-written and easy to read. It is a great addition to the New York Nighthawks series. It has a good plot, interesting twists, family drama, and entertaining hockey scenes with Cami’s ex. I recommend this book to people who enjoy sports romances. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.