Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Spice - 0
Trope - team doctor × hockey player, strangers to lovers, old-mature MC's, badass FMC, roommates, forced proximity, slow burn, romcom, mutual pining, banter, closed door romance, third-act-breakup, slight separation, HEA
This book was a package deal; it had angst, drama, banter, and lots of sweet moments.
Frost is nearing the end of his career, but he is given one last opportunity to play and promote ice hockey in Australia, and he seizes the chance. Hel, a strong and determined emergency doctor, has recently been appointed as the team doctor for the team Frost will be playing for. I loved how both the characters had such mature, dynamic and likeable personalities.
Their initial interactions are full of spark, but neither acts on it because the MMC is in a relationship. However, things take a turn when Frost suffers a career-ending injury and his girlfriend breaks up with him. While I found Frost's career-ending disappointing, it felt plausible given the risks associated with playing a sport at that age.
Frost and Hel's relationship centres on the constant push and pull of their attraction for one another. Despite the challenges, their chemistry is undeniable; the banter, the fun, and the intensity of their connection all resonate perfectly.
It pained my heart seeing the couple struggle with their feelings, and the goodbye was the worst. I hate it when distance becomes a problem for a couple. HOWEVER, I liked how things eventually panned out—so worth the pain and time. The reunion and final chapters were wholesome; they were packed with love, emotions, fun, and lots of moments between the couple.
Favourite characters (except MC's) and moments :
1. The medication scenes have to be my all-time fav ones. Watching a grump turn into a golden retriever because of drugs was not on my bingo list. And, I loved every second of it.
2. Clara was such a supportive and loving friend, and she stole the show with that one big gesture.
3. Most moments involving the hockey team were hilarious and sweet.
4. Gloria was funny throughout, though sometimes I felt she was too much.
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This was such a sweet, cosy romance, with no spice but so much chemistry and emotions.
I'm so glad I picked this book.
Overall 4.5/5