WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
This edition of weekly book recs has the theme of ice hockey romance. Ice hockey and romance might seem like an unlikely combination, but these books prove that the intensity of the sport can beautifully complement the passion of a love story. Whether it’s the thrill of the game, the camaraderie of the team, or the personal struggles of the characters, these novels blend the fast-paced world of ice hockey with heartfelt romance. Below are six books that capture the spirit of the rink and the complexities of love, featuring both mainstream hits and indie gems.
"Pucked" by Helena Hunting
Score: 4.4/5
"Pucked" is a fun, steamy romance that dives headfirst into the world of professional hockey. Violet Hall isn’t interested in dating athletes, but when she meets Alex Waters, a star player with a reputation for being a playboy, sparks fly. Hunting’s writing is hilarious and unabashedly sexy, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and sizzling chemistry between the characters. The story balances humor and heart, making it a thoroughly entertaining read. Some readers might find the humor a bit over-the-top, but the strong character development and engaging plot make it a standout in the sports romance genre.
"The Year We Fell Down" by Sarina Bowen
Score: 4.6/5
This indie gem is a poignant and uplifting romance that explores themes of resilience and self-discovery. Corey Callahan, once a promising ice hockey player, has to adjust to life in a wheelchair after a devastating accident. At college, she meets Adam Hartley, another injured hockey player. Their shared love for the sport and mutual understanding of their struggles bring them closer together. Bowen’s writing is heartfelt and genuine, capturing the emotional journey of the characters with sensitivity and depth. The romance is sweet and believable, making this a compelling and inspiring read.
"Waking the Dragon" by Juliette Cross
Score: 4.0/5
In this paranormal romance, Katya Markova, a journalist, is assigned to cover the New Orleans Nightwings, a hockey team with a dragon shifter as their star player. Julian, the dragon shifter, is as fiery on the ice as he is off it. Cross blends the world of professional sports with the fantastical elements of dragon mythology, creating a unique and engaging story. The chemistry between Katya and Julian is electric, and the paranormal aspects add an intriguing twist to the romance. While some might find the mix of genres unusual, it’s a refreshing take on both sports romance and fantasy.
"Heated Rivalry" by Rachel Reid
Score: 4.5/5
"Heated Rivalry" follows the intense and secret romance between two rival hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Their relationship is complicated by their fierce competition on the ice and the need to keep their love hidden from the public eye. Reid’s writing is passionate and nuanced, capturing the tension and depth of their forbidden romance. The character development is exceptional, with both protagonists facing personal and professional challenges. The story is as much about self-acceptance as it is about love, making it a powerful and emotionally resonant read.
"Alex" by Sawyer Bennett
Score: 4.2/5
In "Alex," the first book of the Cold Fury Hockey series, Bennett introduces readers to Alex Crossman, a talented but troubled hockey player, and Sutton Price, a social worker with her own emotional scars. Their relationship begins as a professional obligation but quickly turns into something deeper. Bennett’s writing is engaging and heartfelt, with well-developed characters and a compelling plot. The story addresses themes of redemption and healing, making the romance feel genuine and impactful. Some readers might find the pacing slow at times, but the emotional depth and chemistry between the characters make it a rewarding read.
"Crossing the Line" by Kendall Ryan
Score: 4.1/5
"Crossing the Line" is a contemporary romance that follows the story of Asher, a hockey player recovering from an injury, and Bailey, his physical therapist. Their professional relationship soon turns personal as they navigate the challenges of Asher’s recovery and their growing attraction. Ryan’s writing is steamy and emotional, with a good balance of romance and personal growth. The characters are relatable and well-drawn, making their journey believable and engaging. While the plot follows some familiar romance tropes, the chemistry and heartfelt moments make it an enjoyable read.
Explore captivating literary worlds within the pages of our thoughtfully curated books. Apollo Libraries, a proud subsidiary of Apollo Imperium, is committed to delivering literary excellence that ignites imagination and nurtures knowledge. Our extensive collection spans diverse genres, encompassing both timeless classics and contemporary masterpieces, all meticulously crafted with a dedication to the art of storytelling. We also proudly present "Neuroasis", a meditation, science and neurology based mental health branch; many artists; home decor and art & design; music & more.
Work with us
Review our books
If you're interested in becoming a reviewer, contact us at info@apolloimperium.com with the subject REVIEW. If we think you're a good fit for us, you will receive the books you wish to review for free, either as an EBook or a physical copy for you to keep, depending on the book. In case of a physical copy, we will cover shipping costs, too.
Contact Us
For inquiries, collaboration opportunities, or any assistance, please don't hesitate to get in touch:
Email: info@apolloimperium.com
Phone: +31 6 18714584
Kommentare