Enjoyed playing and passing the first five levels. Never managed to complete the second set. I don't like timed boosters. It assumes that I'll be able to continue playing for that length of time. Also if I finish with 1 life, they don't do me much good.
Some levels are really difficult. You just have to be persistent and keep trying. Some days I really wish that I could afford to buy gold bars & boosters.
I have the hint feature on, but don't always use them. Like you, I sometimes have trouble seeing candies under ice blockers. My music is off. I found it annoying.