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Skate It Till You Make It: A Novel
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The weather might be icy, but the tension is red-hot in this fake-dating hockey rom-com from the author of Let the Games Begin.
"Skate it Till You Make It offers the romcom hat trick of humor, heart and heat. Incredible character chemistry and witty banter make this fake dating romance a genuine joy." —Sophie Sullivan, author of You Make It Feel Like Christmas
Ari Shumba never expected to make it to the Winter Games, let alone be the one to lead Great Britain’s
women’s ice hockey team through the most important competition of their lives. When her teammate's
unexpected injury catapults her to the role of captain, Ari reluctantly shoulders the responsibility while
trying to navigate family drama and dodge her toxic ex.
Drew Dlamini has always feared taking risks. After breaking up with his girlfriend and dropping out of
college to handle a family crisis, he’s desperate for a fresh start. When he finds himself in London for the
holidays, he rekindles his dream of becoming a professional photographer.
When Ari and Drew meet at a New Year’s Eve party, neither of them is looking for love. Though their
chemistry is instant, they live on opposite sides of the Atlantic, so they spend the night revealing their
glaring red flags, thinking they’ll never see each other again. But when they unexpectedly cross paths in
the snowy Swiss Alps two months later, their feelings for each other rise to the surface.
As the competition heats up, the combination of complicated exes, overinvolved families, and stress-
inducing teammates convinces them that the perfect solution to their problems is to fake-date their way
through the Games. After all, there’s no risk of falling in love if it is doomed from the start . . . right?
A Macmillan Audio production from Flatiron Books
"Skate it Till You Make It offers the romcom hat trick of humor, heart and heat. Incredible character chemistry and witty banter make this fake dating romance a genuine joy." —Sophie Sullivan, author of You Make It Feel Like Christmas
Ari Shumba never expected to make it to the Winter Games, let alone be the one to lead Great Britain’s
women’s ice hockey team through the most important competition of their lives. When her teammate's
unexpected injury catapults her to the role of captain, Ari reluctantly shoulders the responsibility while
trying to navigate family drama and dodge her toxic ex.
Drew Dlamini has always feared taking risks. After breaking up with his girlfriend and dropping out of
college to handle a family crisis, he’s desperate for a fresh start. When he finds himself in London for the
holidays, he rekindles his dream of becoming a professional photographer.
When Ari and Drew meet at a New Year’s Eve party, neither of them is looking for love. Though their
chemistry is instant, they live on opposite sides of the Atlantic, so they spend the night revealing their
glaring red flags, thinking they’ll never see each other again. But when they unexpectedly cross paths in
the snowy Swiss Alps two months later, their feelings for each other rise to the surface.
As the competition heats up, the combination of complicated exes, overinvolved families, and stress-
inducing teammates convinces them that the perfect solution to their problems is to fake-date their way
through the Games. After all, there’s no risk of falling in love if it is doomed from the start . . . right?
A Macmillan Audio production from Flatiron Books
Audible Audio
Expected publication February 3, 2026
19 people are currently reading
8852 people want to read
About the author
Rufaro Faith Mazarura
2 books132 followersRufaro Faith Mazarura is a British Zimbabwean writer who grew up in Birmingham and studied English and Creative Writing at the University of Surrey. She now lives in London and works as a podcast producer, bringing stories to life through audio, and has written and produced podcasts for the BBC, iHeartRadio and Seven Stories, The National Centre for Children’s Books. Let The Games Begin is her debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thought this book was a clear step up from the author's debut, so I'm glad I picked this up! I felt like everything was fleshed out more and I found it easier to connect emotionally. I had a good time reading this, and it often put a smile on my face. I've been reading a lot of hockey romance, and it was super fun to read one about a Black female athlete. I found myself rooting a lot for the team to do well in the winter Olympics, even with Ari's teammates acting very immaturely for a large part of the story.
December 22, 2025
I absolutely DEVOURED Ari and Drew’s story. Set in the 2026 Olympics, Ari is a hockey player for GB and Drew lands himself a photojournalist gig at the games after a legendary NYE party.
Ari and Drew on their own are facing challenging family dymanics, pressure to have it all together, and people in their lives that are hard to manage. But, after meeting at the NYE party & bumping into each other at the Games, they enter a fake relationship that spirals into a real, raw, and sweet relationship in the end.
I absolutely loved the closed-door aspect of this book, as hockey romance is known in general for it’s sex appeal. But, without the explicitly written scenes? This book still holds a sparkle and a sweetness to it that I absolutely enjoyed.
I also appreciated that the characters were young (21-22) and were going throigh the life crises that are normal around that time as it made their story all the more believable. Similarly, with both main characters being Black, the commentary on the expectations of Black women in sports dominated by white women was really something that I appreciated in this book more than anything. It felt as if this book was tackling so many ideas and prevalent topics but it did so in such a seamless way.
All in all, I adored this story, the characters, and the outcomes, and I think anyone who likes a good hockey romance will feel the same!
Ari and Drew on their own are facing challenging family dymanics, pressure to have it all together, and people in their lives that are hard to manage. But, after meeting at the NYE party & bumping into each other at the Games, they enter a fake relationship that spirals into a real, raw, and sweet relationship in the end.
I absolutely loved the closed-door aspect of this book, as hockey romance is known in general for it’s sex appeal. But, without the explicitly written scenes? This book still holds a sparkle and a sweetness to it that I absolutely enjoyed.
I also appreciated that the characters were young (21-22) and were going throigh the life crises that are normal around that time as it made their story all the more believable. Similarly, with both main characters being Black, the commentary on the expectations of Black women in sports dominated by white women was really something that I appreciated in this book more than anything. It felt as if this book was tackling so many ideas and prevalent topics but it did so in such a seamless way.
All in all, I adored this story, the characters, and the outcomes, and I think anyone who likes a good hockey romance will feel the same!
January 4, 2026
Thank you Macmillan Audio for the ALC!
This book is coming out at the PERFECT time for the Winter Olympics. This follows a women’s hockey team captain and a photographer on a fake dating scheme at the Winter Olympics. There’s intertwined family dynamics at play, there’s lying, there’s love.
I really liked our MMC being interested in our FMC from the beginning and agreeing to fake date to help get her out of a hard situation with an ex. I didn’t love his constant lying - though I recognize he was in quite the pickle!!
Both had a lot of family trauma too (one was a huge trigger for me) and I still ended up really enjoying this story. I really liked how she dealt with the men’s hockey team getting more support. But My favorite part was how the womens hockey team came together.
Read this if you love - fake dating, complicated family dynamics, women’s hockey, badass women, Olympic setting!!
This book is coming out at the PERFECT time for the Winter Olympics. This follows a women’s hockey team captain and a photographer on a fake dating scheme at the Winter Olympics. There’s intertwined family dynamics at play, there’s lying, there’s love.
I really liked our MMC being interested in our FMC from the beginning and agreeing to fake date to help get her out of a hard situation with an ex. I didn’t love his constant lying - though I recognize he was in quite the pickle!!
Both had a lot of family trauma too (one was a huge trigger for me) and I still ended up really enjoying this story. I really liked how she dealt with the men’s hockey team getting more support. But My favorite part was how the womens hockey team came together.
Read this if you love - fake dating, complicated family dynamics, women’s hockey, badass women, Olympic setting!!
January 5, 2026
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for my #gifted ALC.
She’s an athlete, he’s an artist, and they both attend the Winter Olympics, which naturally leads to fake dating. This one was super cute and very on theme for the upcoming Olympics. I had fun with it, but I would’ve appreciated a little more depth and a little less miscommunication.
I really loved Ari and Drew’s chemistry and banter, but I could’ve done with a bit more honesty from Drew. Like, I get it, I really do, but all of these secrets are definitely going to blow up in your face, sir. As for Ari, she’s a Black hockey player, which of course comes with its own set of challenges. Those were mentioned occasionally but never truly explored, and I would’ve loved to see more of that… or honestly, have it left out altogether if it wasn’t going to be fully addressed.
But ya know what? I really enjoyed our "villian" Tanny. She is a super complex side character who absolutely stole my attention. I would love to explore her story more, so this is my formal request for her to get her own book.
She’s an athlete, he’s an artist, and they both attend the Winter Olympics, which naturally leads to fake dating. This one was super cute and very on theme for the upcoming Olympics. I had fun with it, but I would’ve appreciated a little more depth and a little less miscommunication.
I really loved Ari and Drew’s chemistry and banter, but I could’ve done with a bit more honesty from Drew. Like, I get it, I really do, but all of these secrets are definitely going to blow up in your face, sir. As for Ari, she’s a Black hockey player, which of course comes with its own set of challenges. Those were mentioned occasionally but never truly explored, and I would’ve loved to see more of that… or honestly, have it left out altogether if it wasn’t going to be fully addressed.
But ya know what? I really enjoyed our "villian" Tanny. She is a super complex side character who absolutely stole my attention. I would love to explore her story more, so this is my formal request for her to get her own book.
January 9, 2026
Such a sweet fake dating romance 🙂↕️💕 Not too spicy but very heartwarming bc of the fake dating and personal growth between the main characters Ari and Drew. I liked that they both had to overcome their issues with their families/friends and become more internally honest with what they want for their futures. Another thing I really liked about this was the Winter Olympics setting/plot point. I can’t recall a lot of black romances that have ever been centered around winter sports, but it was so refreshing reading that from the MCs povs. I ate this audiobook up too tbh. It think it would make for a nice vacation read/listen.
December 24, 2025
skate it till you make it • arc book review
🛍️ release date - february 3, 2026
⭐️ rating - 3/5
All of my Winter Olympics lovers stand up 😤❄️⛸️
This was a cute closed-door romance!! Forbidden romance and fake dating are my favorite tropes, so I was truly in my prime for most of this book. There were definitely spots that were slower than others and moments where I wanted to shake the main characters for not talking about their issues instead of pretending they didn’t exist.
I definitely think this could’ve benefitting from a dual narration or, at the very least, someone who has an American accent to take over for the mmc’s sections.
Thanks to @macmillan.audio for the early audio copy 🫶🏼
🛍️ release date - february 3, 2026
⭐️ rating - 3/5
All of my Winter Olympics lovers stand up 😤❄️⛸️
This was a cute closed-door romance!! Forbidden romance and fake dating are my favorite tropes, so I was truly in my prime for most of this book. There were definitely spots that were slower than others and moments where I wanted to shake the main characters for not talking about their issues instead of pretending they didn’t exist.
I definitely think this could’ve benefitting from a dual narration or, at the very least, someone who has an American accent to take over for the mmc’s sections.
Thanks to @macmillan.audio for the early audio copy 🫶🏼
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 stars
New Year's Eve Meet Cute
Sports romcom
She's a Hockey Player (team Cap)
Fake Dating
Forbidden
Grief/illness
This is a cute hockey Romcom with light spice, lots of swoon and emotion. The forbidden aspect is his sister plays for a rival team and I think that was my favorite part of the plot. It brought the drama and the angst.
I didn't love the 3rd act breakup though and thought it felt like it was put in to add fluff to the story.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for my #gifted ALC.
New Year's Eve Meet Cute
Sports romcom
She's a Hockey Player (team Cap)
Fake Dating
Forbidden
Grief/illness
This is a cute hockey Romcom with light spice, lots of swoon and emotion. The forbidden aspect is his sister plays for a rival team and I think that was my favorite part of the plot. It brought the drama and the angst.
I didn't love the 3rd act breakup though and thought it felt like it was put in to add fluff to the story.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for my #gifted ALC.
January 20, 2026
This book is probably better if you don't know much about hockey. I definitely had to suspend some disbelief that the British Ice Hockey Teams (both mens and womens) qualified for the Olympics, and there were some other awkwardly phrased narratives around the hockey that altogether just distracted me a bit too much from the cute romance. Definitely recommend to people who don't know that much about hockey and are looking for a cute romance centered around the Olympics though!
December 24, 2025
God I love the Olympics!!!
December 28, 2025
This was such a great read. There's so much happening in this story that I found myself engaged the entire time. I loved the Winter Olympics aspect it was perfect for the winter season.
When our MC's have an impromptu night on a roof during New Years they find themselves divulging their secrets knowing they'll never meet again. Fast forward and they happen to run into each other during the Olympics. You find their friendship growing and becoming more as they fake date to get our FMC's toxic ex off her back. Both are dealing with family drama and secrets.
A fantastic listen! Thank you Macmillan audio for the gifted audiobook.
When our MC's have an impromptu night on a roof during New Years they find themselves divulging their secrets knowing they'll never meet again. Fast forward and they happen to run into each other during the Olympics. You find their friendship growing and becoming more as they fake date to get our FMC's toxic ex off her back. Both are dealing with family drama and secrets.
A fantastic listen! Thank you Macmillan audio for the gifted audiobook.
January 1, 2026
I was hoping for something a bit more spicy like the other sports romances I’ve read but this was still enjoyable. I wish the romance was a bit stronger though because the friendships in this book felt more important.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Skate It Till You Make It by Rufaro Faith Mazarura (2026)
11h 13m narrated by Lillie-Pearl Wildman, 384 pages
Genre: Sports Romance > Hockey, Romantic Comedy, Black British Literature, New Adult
Rating as a movie: PG-15/R for adult language and content
Featuring: Ice Hockey, 2026 Winter Olympics, London, England; December 2025, Celibacy, Blind Date, Matchmaking, Fake Dating Trope - PR Relationship; Controlling Ex, Teammates, Canadian LI, Diverse Characters, Training Bootcamp, Women's Ice Hockey Team, Dual POVs, Olympians, Winter Holidays - Thanksgiving, Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve/Day; Madison Wisconsin; USC - University of Southern California; Los Angeles, California; New Year's Eve Party, Alzheimer's, Family Dynamics, Secrets, Photography, Siblings, Switzerland, Zimbabwe, Sexism, Misogyny, Feminism, Vicenarians, Sex - Closed Door, Details Verbalize Later; Drama, Self-Actualization, Siblings, Grandparents
Songs for the soundtrack: "You Might Need Somebody" by Shola Ama, "One Night Stand" by Mis-Teeq, "Missing (Todd Terry Remix)" by Everything but the Girl, "Re-Rewind" by Artful Dodger featuring Craig David, "Move Your Body" by Marshall Jefferson and Solardo, "New Year" by Sugababes, "Round Round" by Sugababes, "Black Mascara." by Raye, "Blue Lights" by Jorja Smith, "Ordinary" by Alex Warren, "Rush" by Troye Sivan, Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder, "Airplane" by Cleo Sol, "SHAKE AH" by Tyla, Lotus by Little Simz, "As" by Stevie Wonder, "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond, "Misty" by Ella Fitzgerald, "O Canada" (French: Ô Canada) by Calixa Lavallée and Adolphe-Basile Routhier (French, 1880), and Robert Stanley Weir (English, 1908); "We're Dancing" by P.Y.T., "L-O-V-E" by Nat King Cole
Books and Authors mentioned: When Harry Met Sally... by Nora Ephron, Cleopatra by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Ranald MacDougall, and Sidney Buchman [based on] The Life and Times of Cleopatra by Carlo Maria Franzero [and] Histories by Plutarch, Suetonius, and Appian; The V.I.P.s (also known as Hotel International) by Terence Rattigan; Rich Dad Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🇬🇧🇨🇦🇨🇭🇿🇼🏒⛸️🎉📸
My thoughts: 📱9% 10h 11m left [Chapter] 5 Ari, December 31, 2025 - I actually got about 2 minutes into this chapter and I had to just restart it and stop here it was going so well it just got corny I'm hoping it's just a moment. The narrator is amazing with accents, but the American ones don't fit the characters.
📱22% 8h 43m left [Chapter] 11 Ari, Opening Ceremony - Well, well, well, the plot thickens. I was not expecting this wrinkle. I thought it was going to go a different way [with their exes], but this is even better than what I thought.
📱55% 5h 6m left [Chapter] 26 Drew, Day 5 of the 2026 Olympics - The MMC is slow, he should have figured this out already. I am still struggling with this narrator even though she is good at transitioning an accent and giving every character a different voice the 4 Americans sound like little kids and do not talk like black people from Wisconsin it's just hard for me to get past this male character sounding like a 10-year-old boy from California, and his grandmother sounds 12.
📱82% 1h 59m left [Chapter] 39 Drew, Day 8 of the 2026 Olympics - My husband's presence is stopping me from reading, I just want to spend time with him. Hopefully, I can finish this story tonight. It's still just okay.
This story wasn't my cup of tea, but it was good. The characters are well-developed and their growth is meaningful. I wanted to shake Ari and Drew a few times, but they're young. Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Maybe. I think if you’re into Sports Romance or love the Olympics, this would be right up your alley. Everyone I know who reads Sports Romance likes them spicy, and this is a mild pepper.
11h 13m narrated by Lillie-Pearl Wildman, 384 pages
Genre: Sports Romance > Hockey, Romantic Comedy, Black British Literature, New Adult
Rating as a movie: PG-15/R for adult language and content
Featuring: Ice Hockey, 2026 Winter Olympics, London, England; December 2025, Celibacy, Blind Date, Matchmaking, Fake Dating Trope - PR Relationship; Controlling Ex, Teammates, Canadian LI, Diverse Characters, Training Bootcamp, Women's Ice Hockey Team, Dual POVs, Olympians, Winter Holidays - Thanksgiving, Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve/Day; Madison Wisconsin; USC - University of Southern California; Los Angeles, California; New Year's Eve Party, Alzheimer's, Family Dynamics, Secrets, Photography, Siblings, Switzerland, Zimbabwe, Sexism, Misogyny, Feminism, Vicenarians, Sex - Closed Door, Details Verbalize Later; Drama, Self-Actualization, Siblings, Grandparents
Songs for the soundtrack: "You Might Need Somebody" by Shola Ama, "One Night Stand" by Mis-Teeq, "Missing (Todd Terry Remix)" by Everything but the Girl, "Re-Rewind" by Artful Dodger featuring Craig David, "Move Your Body" by Marshall Jefferson and Solardo, "New Year" by Sugababes, "Round Round" by Sugababes, "Black Mascara." by Raye, "Blue Lights" by Jorja Smith, "Ordinary" by Alex Warren, "Rush" by Troye Sivan, Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder, "Airplane" by Cleo Sol, "SHAKE AH" by Tyla, Lotus by Little Simz, "As" by Stevie Wonder, "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond, "Misty" by Ella Fitzgerald, "O Canada" (French: Ô Canada) by Calixa Lavallée and Adolphe-Basile Routhier (French, 1880), and Robert Stanley Weir (English, 1908); "We're Dancing" by P.Y.T., "L-O-V-E" by Nat King Cole
Books and Authors mentioned: When Harry Met Sally... by Nora Ephron, Cleopatra by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Ranald MacDougall, and Sidney Buchman [based on] The Life and Times of Cleopatra by Carlo Maria Franzero [and] Histories by Plutarch, Suetonius, and Appian; The V.I.P.s (also known as Hotel International) by Terence Rattigan; Rich Dad Poor Dad, by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🇬🇧🇨🇦🇨🇭🇿🇼🏒⛸️🎉📸
My thoughts: 📱9% 10h 11m left [Chapter] 5 Ari, December 31, 2025 - I actually got about 2 minutes into this chapter and I had to just restart it and stop here it was going so well it just got corny I'm hoping it's just a moment. The narrator is amazing with accents, but the American ones don't fit the characters.
📱22% 8h 43m left [Chapter] 11 Ari, Opening Ceremony - Well, well, well, the plot thickens. I was not expecting this wrinkle. I thought it was going to go a different way [with their exes], but this is even better than what I thought.
📱55% 5h 6m left [Chapter] 26 Drew, Day 5 of the 2026 Olympics - The MMC is slow, he should have figured this out already. I am still struggling with this narrator even though she is good at transitioning an accent and giving every character a different voice the 4 Americans sound like little kids and do not talk like black people from Wisconsin it's just hard for me to get past this male character sounding like a 10-year-old boy from California, and his grandmother sounds 12.
📱82% 1h 59m left [Chapter] 39 Drew, Day 8 of the 2026 Olympics - My husband's presence is stopping me from reading, I just want to spend time with him. Hopefully, I can finish this story tonight. It's still just okay.
This story wasn't my cup of tea, but it was good. The characters are well-developed and their growth is meaningful. I wanted to shake Ari and Drew a few times, but they're young. Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Maybe. I think if you’re into Sports Romance or love the Olympics, this would be right up your alley. Everyone I know who reads Sports Romance likes them spicy, and this is a mild pepper.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5/5
—it's time for the Olympics, baby
—hockey-playing heroine/NOT-hockey-playing hero
—the messiness of love in your early twenties
The Basics:
When a teammate gets injured, Ari is unexpectedly thrown into the role of captain of Great Britain's Olympic ice hockey team. Trying her best to take on these new responsibilities, she's thrown off balance upon meeting Drew, who's in London for the holidays. Sure they'll never meet again, they reveal their red flags, bond, and—end up running into one another two months later at the Winter Games. With familial pressures (and messy exes) closing in, they decided to fake date through the Olympics... which can only end super easily, right?
The Review:
Of course I'm going to read an Olympics romance with a hockey player heroine. Obviously.
Generally speaking, I think Skate It Till You Make It does end up being the opposite of a lot the alpha-heavy, toxic hockey romances we've seen lately. And generally speaking, I'm not a fan of these romances—but this might have gone a little bit too far into the realm of "everyone is good" for me. Just because I wanted a bit more drama and intensity, however, doesn't mean it's wrong for everyone else.
This is the second Olympics-related romance I've read recently. I'm actually an Olympics fiend, especially the Winter Games. The reasons why are based in not only my interest in the sports (I don't closely follow most of them), but the drama inherent to them. Who will win? What's their story? How will we be surprised (because we always are)?
Ari's appointment as captain is in itself a huge surprise, and much her arc is about her trying not to crumble under the massive pressure, while also dealing growing and past loves. What adds to this in some ways is that she's rather young (as many Olympians are). And so it's not unrealistic that a lot of her romantic conflict is based on communication difficulties. I don't have an issue with that. But it does last for much of the story, and that sort of stacks on top of fake dating to the point that you are a bit like—well! Just be together!
This is a book that isn't without its emotional conflict (and the "villain", as they are, is quite interested and complex), but it's never heavy. It's cute! And I know a lot of us could use cute right about now. There's a sizable emphasis on family ties, with a fleshed out supporting cast; and while I don't think this was the wrong choice, per se, it did make the story feel a little less... passionate? You don't have as much time for Ari and Drew to be alone. It's a believable love story, but it's not intense.
And it is closed door. Closed door romances typically aren't for me (with notable exceptions). Here, I respect the choice... but I would've liked to have seen these two hook up. Especially because Ari is an athlete in a contact sport, and Drew obviously isn't. I feel like female athletes in sports like hockey are so often portrayed as these un-sexy creatures, and it would've been nice to see Ari being cherished in a more... physical way. Again, this wasn't a bad choice—it's just not mine.
The Conclusion:
A refreshing, sweet contemporary romance that will get you excited for the Olympics. I wish it had been a bit more high octane, personally, but I think those in need of something comforting right now will be really into it.
And the audiobook narration was lovely; I just really liked Lillie-Pearl Wildman's voice, to be honest!
Thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
—it's time for the Olympics, baby
—hockey-playing heroine/NOT-hockey-playing hero
—the messiness of love in your early twenties
The Basics:
When a teammate gets injured, Ari is unexpectedly thrown into the role of captain of Great Britain's Olympic ice hockey team. Trying her best to take on these new responsibilities, she's thrown off balance upon meeting Drew, who's in London for the holidays. Sure they'll never meet again, they reveal their red flags, bond, and—end up running into one another two months later at the Winter Games. With familial pressures (and messy exes) closing in, they decided to fake date through the Olympics... which can only end super easily, right?
The Review:
Of course I'm going to read an Olympics romance with a hockey player heroine. Obviously.
Generally speaking, I think Skate It Till You Make It does end up being the opposite of a lot the alpha-heavy, toxic hockey romances we've seen lately. And generally speaking, I'm not a fan of these romances—but this might have gone a little bit too far into the realm of "everyone is good" for me. Just because I wanted a bit more drama and intensity, however, doesn't mean it's wrong for everyone else.
This is the second Olympics-related romance I've read recently. I'm actually an Olympics fiend, especially the Winter Games. The reasons why are based in not only my interest in the sports (I don't closely follow most of them), but the drama inherent to them. Who will win? What's their story? How will we be surprised (because we always are)?
Ari's appointment as captain is in itself a huge surprise, and much her arc is about her trying not to crumble under the massive pressure, while also dealing growing and past loves. What adds to this in some ways is that she's rather young (as many Olympians are). And so it's not unrealistic that a lot of her romantic conflict is based on communication difficulties. I don't have an issue with that. But it does last for much of the story, and that sort of stacks on top of fake dating to the point that you are a bit like—well! Just be together!
This is a book that isn't without its emotional conflict (and the "villain", as they are, is quite interested and complex), but it's never heavy. It's cute! And I know a lot of us could use cute right about now. There's a sizable emphasis on family ties, with a fleshed out supporting cast; and while I don't think this was the wrong choice, per se, it did make the story feel a little less... passionate? You don't have as much time for Ari and Drew to be alone. It's a believable love story, but it's not intense.
And it is closed door. Closed door romances typically aren't for me (with notable exceptions). Here, I respect the choice... but I would've liked to have seen these two hook up. Especially because Ari is an athlete in a contact sport, and Drew obviously isn't. I feel like female athletes in sports like hockey are so often portrayed as these un-sexy creatures, and it would've been nice to see Ari being cherished in a more... physical way. Again, this wasn't a bad choice—it's just not mine.
The Conclusion:
A refreshing, sweet contemporary romance that will get you excited for the Olympics. I wish it had been a bit more high octane, personally, but I think those in need of something comforting right now will be really into it.
And the audiobook narration was lovely; I just really liked Lillie-Pearl Wildman's voice, to be honest!
Thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Skate It Till You Make It promises icy tension and rom-com vibes, but what it ultimately delivers feels more like character-driven contemporary fiction with a romance woven through—and once I adjusted my expectations, I could better appreciate what this story does well.
Where this book really excels is in its depiction of women’s sports. The dedication, sacrifice, and pressure Ari faces—especially after being unexpectedly thrust into the role of team captain—are handled with care and realism. Competing at the Winter Games isn’t just a flashy backdrop; it’s central to Ari’s identity, her stress, and the choices she makes. I loved how much attention was given to the very real challenges women athletes face, from team politics to public scrutiny to balancing personal lives that don’t conveniently pause for competition.
Ari and Drew are flawed, but largely likable leads. Ari’s determination and guardedness make sense given everything she’s juggling, and Drew’s hesitation and desire for a reset give him a quiet, searching energy that works well against her intensity. Their New Year’s Eve meeting has great spark, and the snowy Winter Olympics setting adds a layer of tension and atmosphere that kept me engaged. By the time I reached the ending, it felt satisfying and earned, even if it took a winding road to get there.
That said, this is where the rom-com label didn’t quite work for me. The humor rarely landed, and there’s a lot happening outside of the central relationship. Between complicated exes, overinvolved families, and stress-inducing teammates, the romance often felt like it was sharing the spotlight—or outright stepping aside. Not necessarily a bad thing, but I finished the book feeling like this leaned more toward contemporary fiction than romance.
The fake-dating trope is there, and the chemistry exists, but it never fully becomes the emotional engine of the story. Instead, it runs parallel to everything else, which makes the love story feel quieter than expected.
I also listened to this on audio, and while I eventually adjusted, the narrator’s American accent was… rough. It was jarring at first and definitely pulled me out of the story early on, though it became easier to ignore as the book went on.
Overall, Skate It Till You Make It is a solid, thoughtful read with strong character work, an engaging Winter Games setting, and a satisfying conclusion. If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud rom-com, this may not fully hit that mark. But if you enjoy grounded, character-focused stories—especially ones that take women’s sports seriously—there’s a lot here to appreciate.
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ / 5
#SkateItTillYouMakeIt
#NetGalley
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ari and Drew hit it off at a New Year’s Eve party, never expecting to see each other again. After a great chat with all their embarrassing secrets, thinking they would never again have the opportunity to meet, they establish a connection and share a kiss at the stroke of midnight. A few months later when they’re at the Olympics together for different reasons, she a professional athlete and he a photographer, the two decide to fake date in order to help put a bathroom between she and her ex who was also a professional athlete attending the Olympics. With a close proximity of the Olympic Village, as well as the high stakes of the competition, the tension and attraction between Ari and Drew continues to build until they have to decide if this fake relationship is worth fighting for. As secrets come to light they have to decide what they want from this relationship. Ari is dealing with the responsibility of suddenly becoming captain of her team, as well as navigating the drama between her family back home, and Drew is struggling with where to turn next after dropping out of college to stay home and help with his grandmother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis that’s progressing faster than expected.
The story handles a lot of great themes like positive relationships, found family, supportive, friendships, and putting your chest in someone worthy of protecting your heart. Overall, a sweet read and a great book to read as we get ready for the Olympics this year! I also really enjoyed reading about a female hockey player since all the other hockey romances that I’ve read are about male teams. There is one intimate scene which goes from kissing and then skims over and implies intimacy before moving onto the next morning. Not sure whether to call that a fade to black or a vague open door because there really is no description beyond kissing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, for an advanced copy of this story, all opinions are my own.
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
The story handles a lot of great themes like positive relationships, found family, supportive, friendships, and putting your chest in someone worthy of protecting your heart. Overall, a sweet read and a great book to read as we get ready for the Olympics this year! I also really enjoyed reading about a female hockey player since all the other hockey romances that I’ve read are about male teams. There is one intimate scene which goes from kissing and then skims over and implies intimacy before moving onto the next morning. Not sure whether to call that a fade to black or a vague open door because there really is no description beyond kissing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, for an advanced copy of this story, all opinions are my own.
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
January 6, 2026
Nothing like the holidays for listening to a rom-com based in the 2026 Olympics featuring a POC couple and the fake dating trope. I was fortunate to receive this fun story as an audiobook ARC and absolutely demolished it.
The story very quickly settled into classic rom-com territory, but it started out with some great lines that got me hooked. One was, “I don’t need to date a hot hockey player. I am a hot hockey player?” — Lillie-Pearl Wildman’s delivery was perfectly snotty for the scene, and I busted out laughing. It also summarizes in one quote the kind of social pressures the hockey women in this story are under. Not only are these athletes going to the Olympics for the first time, they have to deal with egos both on and off the ice that treat them unfairly because they are women while being dosed with the double-standard venom for being too feminine and not feminine enough while performing their vocation.
I also totally judged this book by its cover and ASSumed it would be two athletes falling in love. It patently is not. The story was better for that, imo.
There is plenty of family / non-sports drama to accompany the main sports storyline. Drew has a little sister and they were raised by their grandparents. That produced the gem: “… [she said] with the easy detachment of a youngest child.” Drew was blithely told how easy to brush-off his family issue was, which also made me laugh out loud. Eldest children DO often have it quite differently than the younger siblings, and need to get involved when younger siblings don’t, but the eldest also can be so blind to the simple but effective insight younger siblings have.
Which leads me to my light criticisms. These characters are SO young. They’re early-twenties adults that fall heavily into the lies-by-omission and communication failure traps that are obnoxious crutches both within fiction and without. Beyond that, I struggle with explaining why I find the ‘no communication’ trope so cheap. Maybe it’s related to how I tend towards “just talking about it” irl, but pretending to ignore things you need to tell others just adds to the mental load / checklist of things to do. It’s a common problem, but it’s also, dare I say, uninteresting. Sadly it sums up about 90% of the story’s tension, so while I enjoyed the sports aspects and characters’ senses of humor, the various plot climaxes were unexceptional.
That being said, the family drama Ari deals with is incredibly on point because it is so infuriating.
Great humor, nothing to write home about in terms of plot tensions. Still recommend if you need a rom-com!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Who does not love a meet cute sports romance mixed with fake dating and just a touch of forbidden romance? Skate It Til You Make It delivers a fun blend of some of our favorite romance tropes while centering Black joy, ambition, and young love on an international stage.
At its heart, this story is about Black women athletes standing on the brink of the 2026 Olympics and the pressure that comes when everything is on the line. An unexpected injury shifts team dynamics right before departure, and Ari Shumba finds herself navigating a breakup, a toxic ex, and the weight of becoming team captain for Great Britain’s women’s hockey team as a first time Olympian. Watching her step into leadership while carrying so much personal baggage added real emotional depth to the story.
Drew’s storyline offered a thoughtful contrast. His journey of choosing between personal dreams and family responsibility felt grounded and relatable, especially as he tries to redefine his future during a season of transition. When Ari and Drew’s lives collide on New Year’s Eve and unexpectedly intersect again months later at the Olympics, their fake dating arrangement becomes a sweet and entertaining way to navigate complicated exes, family pressures, and high stakes competition.
The Olympic setting, the chemistry between Ari and Drew, and the celebration of Black athletes made this a fun and engaging young adult romance. My main critique was the inconsistency in the writing and pacing at times. With a few more final edits, this story could be even stronger and more polished than it already is.
Overall, this was a cute, trope filled sports romance that I enjoyed and would recommend to readers who love fake dating, athlete romances, and stories centered on ambition and growth.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced copy of Skate It Til You Make It.
At its heart, this story is about Black women athletes standing on the brink of the 2026 Olympics and the pressure that comes when everything is on the line. An unexpected injury shifts team dynamics right before departure, and Ari Shumba finds herself navigating a breakup, a toxic ex, and the weight of becoming team captain for Great Britain’s women’s hockey team as a first time Olympian. Watching her step into leadership while carrying so much personal baggage added real emotional depth to the story.
Drew’s storyline offered a thoughtful contrast. His journey of choosing between personal dreams and family responsibility felt grounded and relatable, especially as he tries to redefine his future during a season of transition. When Ari and Drew’s lives collide on New Year’s Eve and unexpectedly intersect again months later at the Olympics, their fake dating arrangement becomes a sweet and entertaining way to navigate complicated exes, family pressures, and high stakes competition.
The Olympic setting, the chemistry between Ari and Drew, and the celebration of Black athletes made this a fun and engaging young adult romance. My main critique was the inconsistency in the writing and pacing at times. With a few more final edits, this story could be even stronger and more polished than it already is.
Overall, this was a cute, trope filled sports romance that I enjoyed and would recommend to readers who love fake dating, athlete romances, and stories centered on ambition and growth.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced copy of Skate It Til You Make It.
January 17, 2026
A Winter Olympics fake dating romance - a perfect read for hockey romance enthusiasts or anyone looking for a cosy winter romance.
“We should trademark this and put it on a set of cards,” she joked. “Worst Foot Forward. The game to play to ensure you never fall in love with someone.”
This starts out with a New Years Eve party, so is perfect to read this time of year. Since it’s set in the Winter Olympics, the vibes of snow and cold weather are perfect for the season and make it a great book to read whilst we’re stuck in the colder months.
I really enjoyed their romance! Especially the diversion from the usual facets of the genre since she was the hockey player and he was the photographer. I liked that she was the athlete and he was the one chasing her around as she went for gold!
Drew dropped out of college following family health issues, and is slightly floundering on his future plans. Throughout the book he is pursuing his dream to be a photographer, whilst also supporting his sister at the Olympics (she’s also a hockey player). He’s torn between the duty to his family and his own goals.
“She was there for everyone, but it felt like nobody she loved was willing to sacrifice their time and energy to be there for her.”
Ari is the Team GB hockey captain - but also has to act as the family referee, a typical eldest daughter! She sets out the ‘fake dating’ scheme with Drew to try and send the message to her toxic ex that she’s unavailable. I love how determined she was to bring her team to success and the way she develops as a captain throughout.
I enjoyed their Winter Olympics setting - very atmospheric and portrayed the games well!
Overall a fun read perfect for the winter months!
ARC copy provided by Headline & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
“We should trademark this and put it on a set of cards,” she joked. “Worst Foot Forward. The game to play to ensure you never fall in love with someone.”
This starts out with a New Years Eve party, so is perfect to read this time of year. Since it’s set in the Winter Olympics, the vibes of snow and cold weather are perfect for the season and make it a great book to read whilst we’re stuck in the colder months.
I really enjoyed their romance! Especially the diversion from the usual facets of the genre since she was the hockey player and he was the photographer. I liked that she was the athlete and he was the one chasing her around as she went for gold!
Drew dropped out of college following family health issues, and is slightly floundering on his future plans. Throughout the book he is pursuing his dream to be a photographer, whilst also supporting his sister at the Olympics (she’s also a hockey player). He’s torn between the duty to his family and his own goals.
“She was there for everyone, but it felt like nobody she loved was willing to sacrifice their time and energy to be there for her.”
Ari is the Team GB hockey captain - but also has to act as the family referee, a typical eldest daughter! She sets out the ‘fake dating’ scheme with Drew to try and send the message to her toxic ex that she’s unavailable. I love how determined she was to bring her team to success and the way she develops as a captain throughout.
I enjoyed their Winter Olympics setting - very atmospheric and portrayed the games well!
Overall a fun read perfect for the winter months!
ARC copy provided by Headline & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 5, 2026
🏒Audiobook Review of Skate It Till You Make It 📸
By Rufaro Faith Mazarura
Thank you so much to both @macmillan.audio for the opportunity to listen and review this ALC!
Synopsis:
🏒Ari Shumba is unexpectedly made captain of Great Britain’s women’s ice hockey team as they head toward the 2026 Winter Olympics, juggling sport, family drama, and a toxic ex.
📸At a New Year’s Eve party in London, she meets Drew Dlamini, an American photographer trying to restart his career, and they share an unexpected connection. Lillie Pearl Wildman did an amazing job of bringing both Ari and Drew to life!
🏒Months later in the snowy Swiss Alps, they run into each other again at the Olympics and agree to fake-date to help Ari avoid her ex and give Drew access to the athletes.
📸What was meant to be a simple arrangement soon blurs into something real, with complications from family, past relationships, and their own rising feelings.
Thoughts:
This was a fun, cozy sports romance with a great Olympic ice hockey setting that felt fresh and engaging. I loved Ari and Drew’s chemistry—the banter, vulnerability, and slow shift from fake dating to real feelings worked really well.
The only thing holding this back from 5⭐️ for me was the third-act breakup. It felt predictable and slowed the momentum, even if it ultimately supported the characters’ growth.
Overall, a heartfelt, wintry romance with strong chemistry and a unique sports backdrop—just expect a bit of emotional turbulence before the HEA.
Authors: Rufaro Faith Mazarura
Publisher: @macmillan.audio @macmillanusa
Release Date: February 3, 2026
4⭐️
2🔥
By Rufaro Faith Mazarura
Thank you so much to both @macmillan.audio for the opportunity to listen and review this ALC!
Synopsis:
🏒Ari Shumba is unexpectedly made captain of Great Britain’s women’s ice hockey team as they head toward the 2026 Winter Olympics, juggling sport, family drama, and a toxic ex.
📸At a New Year’s Eve party in London, she meets Drew Dlamini, an American photographer trying to restart his career, and they share an unexpected connection. Lillie Pearl Wildman did an amazing job of bringing both Ari and Drew to life!
🏒Months later in the snowy Swiss Alps, they run into each other again at the Olympics and agree to fake-date to help Ari avoid her ex and give Drew access to the athletes.
📸What was meant to be a simple arrangement soon blurs into something real, with complications from family, past relationships, and their own rising feelings.
Thoughts:
This was a fun, cozy sports romance with a great Olympic ice hockey setting that felt fresh and engaging. I loved Ari and Drew’s chemistry—the banter, vulnerability, and slow shift from fake dating to real feelings worked really well.
The only thing holding this back from 5⭐️ for me was the third-act breakup. It felt predictable and slowed the momentum, even if it ultimately supported the characters’ growth.
Overall, a heartfelt, wintry romance with strong chemistry and a unique sports backdrop—just expect a bit of emotional turbulence before the HEA.
Authors: Rufaro Faith Mazarura
Publisher: @macmillan.audio @macmillanusa
Release Date: February 3, 2026
4⭐️
2🔥
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
✨ Review ✨ Skate It Till You Make It by Rufaro Faith Mazarura; Narrated by Lillie-Pearl Wildman
Thanks to Macmillan Audio and #netgalley for the gifted advanced copy/ies of this book!
First, props to the author for releasing Olympic romances in the appropriate Olympics years -- last spring Olympics, she had a Summer Olympics story; this time it's perfect for a Winter Olympics year!
This book starts at a New Years Eve party, where Ari, a hockey player on Britain's first woman's team to make it to the Olympics, and Drew, who recently dropped out of college and is taking photos at the party, meet on the rooftop just before midnight. They share all their worst secrets and red flags, knowing they'll never see each other again.
Until they do.
At the Winter Olympics a month later. As the last-minute captain of the team, Ari's trying to lead her underdog team as far as they can, and as a newly budding photographer, Drew's trying to fulfill his photojournalism tasks while building a potential future for himself in the field. The two decide to do a mutually beneficially fake dating relationship to keep Ari's awful ex away and to provide an insider photo series for Drew's portfolio.
There are more twists and turns along the way, along with a growing snowball of secrets, but you'll be sure to be gliding alongside the ice alongside them in this romance.
🎧 This is perfect for listening to as you go out for a winter walk or watch the Olympics!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫(3.5)
Genre: f/m sports romance
Setting: London and Switzerland at the Winter Olympics
Length: 11 hours 13 minutes
Pub Date: Feb 3, 2026
Read this if you like:
⭕️ hockey romance (female hockey player!)
⭕️ Winter Olympics
⭕️ behind-the-scenes in the Olympic Village
⭕️ family drama
⭕️ lots of snow, winter gear, and hot cocoa
Thanks to Macmillan Audio and #netgalley for the gifted advanced copy/ies of this book!
First, props to the author for releasing Olympic romances in the appropriate Olympics years -- last spring Olympics, she had a Summer Olympics story; this time it's perfect for a Winter Olympics year!
This book starts at a New Years Eve party, where Ari, a hockey player on Britain's first woman's team to make it to the Olympics, and Drew, who recently dropped out of college and is taking photos at the party, meet on the rooftop just before midnight. They share all their worst secrets and red flags, knowing they'll never see each other again.
Until they do.
At the Winter Olympics a month later. As the last-minute captain of the team, Ari's trying to lead her underdog team as far as they can, and as a newly budding photographer, Drew's trying to fulfill his photojournalism tasks while building a potential future for himself in the field. The two decide to do a mutually beneficially fake dating relationship to keep Ari's awful ex away and to provide an insider photo series for Drew's portfolio.
There are more twists and turns along the way, along with a growing snowball of secrets, but you'll be sure to be gliding alongside the ice alongside them in this romance.
🎧 This is perfect for listening to as you go out for a winter walk or watch the Olympics!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫(3.5)
Genre: f/m sports romance
Setting: London and Switzerland at the Winter Olympics
Length: 11 hours 13 minutes
Pub Date: Feb 3, 2026
Read this if you like:
⭕️ hockey romance (female hockey player!)
⭕️ Winter Olympics
⭕️ behind-the-scenes in the Olympic Village
⭕️ family drama
⭕️ lots of snow, winter gear, and hot cocoa
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
*3.75
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC of Skate it Till You Make It!
I had a good time with this book, the premise of fake dating during the winter olympics is soooo cool.
Black Women is Sports is always gonna be amazing, especially if the sport is a white dominated field. The need for Diversity within Hockey needs to continue to be talked about and I'm glad that Rufaro talked about this in her novel.
I definitely encourage readers into sports romances to check this out, I don't think I would recommend the audiobook just because the narrator's attempt at an American accent isn't the greatest. This would've been a great audio as a dual narrations though!
Ari is 100% one of my favorite FMC's, She puts everyone else before herself, she's known as a mediator which I (in somewhat of a biased opinion) think is such an underrated family role that goes unappreciated a lot. It was amazing for her to find someone who saw her not for the roles she played but for who she is as a person.
Drew is a dedicated MMC, he recently dropped out of college and isn't sure what to do with his life. This is a very relatable stage in life. Despite the losses he has experienced the opportunities and experiences he gains are heartfelt and really build his confidence as a character.
Their fake dating scheme was so cute, the book technically is spanned out in a week and given that it's during the Winter Olympics it happens to be very eventful but it's such a fun book to read.
I'm excited for everyone to read this, I just would recommend reading the physical or E-book version of this book to have it be more enjoyable.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC of Skate it Till You Make It!
I had a good time with this book, the premise of fake dating during the winter olympics is soooo cool.
Black Women is Sports is always gonna be amazing, especially if the sport is a white dominated field. The need for Diversity within Hockey needs to continue to be talked about and I'm glad that Rufaro talked about this in her novel.
I definitely encourage readers into sports romances to check this out, I don't think I would recommend the audiobook just because the narrator's attempt at an American accent isn't the greatest. This would've been a great audio as a dual narrations though!
Ari is 100% one of my favorite FMC's, She puts everyone else before herself, she's known as a mediator which I (in somewhat of a biased opinion) think is such an underrated family role that goes unappreciated a lot. It was amazing for her to find someone who saw her not for the roles she played but for who she is as a person.
Drew is a dedicated MMC, he recently dropped out of college and isn't sure what to do with his life. This is a very relatable stage in life. Despite the losses he has experienced the opportunities and experiences he gains are heartfelt and really build his confidence as a character.
Their fake dating scheme was so cute, the book technically is spanned out in a week and given that it's during the Winter Olympics it happens to be very eventful but it's such a fun book to read.
I'm excited for everyone to read this, I just would recommend reading the physical or E-book version of this book to have it be more enjoyable.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Format: Audiobook (NetGalley ALC)
Skate It Till You Make It was my first book by Rufaro Faith Mazarura, and I ended up enjoying it far more than expected. The timeline‑style chapter titles pulled me in immediately especially since the story starts on December 31, 2025, the exact day I began reading. From there, the book moves toward the February 2026 Winter Olympics, giving everything a fun, real‑time momentum.
I loved seeing women in hockey centered so confidently. Ari Shumba gets pushed into the captain role after an injury on the team, and her leadership arc is one of the best parts of the book. She has to learn how to trust herself, set boundaries with girls she’s grown up with, and step into her power. It’s messy in the right ways and really satisfying to watch unfold.
The family dynamics add another layer of depth. Ari’s mother is still resentful of the father who left and started a new family, and that bitterness spills into her expectations of her daughters. Even as adults, Ari and her sister are still navigating that emotional fallout. The story captures something very real especially in African families about how parents sometimes blur the line between their relationship with each other and their relationship with their children.
The romance is classic fake‑dating: slow‑burn, a little chaotic, and ultimately sweet. It’s very low‑spice, but the character development carries it. This isn’t a book I would’ve normally picked up, but I’m glad I did, and I’d definitely read more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 stars
That laugh sounded like sunlight, warm enough to make a swish winter night feel like spring."
"There is no place he'd rather be, than under her gaze."
"When it finds you, don't let it pass you by."
Big thanks to Macmillan Audio for the ALC. This is a cute quick read, if you are looking for a cute fake dating, photographer and hockey player story set in the Winter Olympic games, look no further and check this out. This gave all the cozy winter vibes! It was nice to read about a Black woman taking on the captain position of the hockey time, as Ari was navigating the new role, her family intense dynamics, and dealing with an ex that is insufferable, she took everything in high stride and tried her best to handle everything on her plate. Her struggle and mistakes made her character human and showed progress on how she got better as a captain and as a person that learned to stop being a people pleaser! Her journey was a rocky one but I like how Ari always stayed true to herself and did the best she could with the cards she was delt. The same can be said for Drew's character as well, I liked how he was so relatable when it came to stepping out on faith and living in the moment. His skills within the photography world was stellar and he was truly the best of the best, and reading about his journey as he learns how to go with the flow and take a chance in life was fun to read! I like how they both supported each other with their familial issues and were safe spaces for one another.
That laugh sounded like sunlight, warm enough to make a swish winter night feel like spring."
"There is no place he'd rather be, than under her gaze."
"When it finds you, don't let it pass you by."
Big thanks to Macmillan Audio for the ALC. This is a cute quick read, if you are looking for a cute fake dating, photographer and hockey player story set in the Winter Olympic games, look no further and check this out. This gave all the cozy winter vibes! It was nice to read about a Black woman taking on the captain position of the hockey time, as Ari was navigating the new role, her family intense dynamics, and dealing with an ex that is insufferable, she took everything in high stride and tried her best to handle everything on her plate. Her struggle and mistakes made her character human and showed progress on how she got better as a captain and as a person that learned to stop being a people pleaser! Her journey was a rocky one but I like how Ari always stayed true to herself and did the best she could with the cards she was delt. The same can be said for Drew's character as well, I liked how he was so relatable when it came to stepping out on faith and living in the moment. His skills within the photography world was stellar and he was truly the best of the best, and reading about his journey as he learns how to go with the flow and take a chance in life was fun to read! I like how they both supported each other with their familial issues and were safe spaces for one another.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am so grateful that we have a female POC author in closed-door romance! 💘
Ari and Drew meet on New years as she is about to be the captain the British women’s hockey team in the Winter Olympics. He is a photographer and little does Ari know, he is the brother of one of her rivals from the US team. It becomes mutually beneficial to fake date him to avoid her narcissistic Olympian ex, Harrison.
I am shocked at the amount of fake dating tropes that have arisen in 2026 romcoms. It is by far the most common trope that I am seeing for this year, despite the fact that fake dating almost never happens in real life. That aside, I enjoyed this very sweet story and loved the Olympic setting. I don’t know much about hockey, but I loved the storyline about female athletes, how they work together as a team, and the interpersonal relationships. Some really fun and inspiring minor characters. I also love a good kiss cam scene, and I really enjoyed the banter between Drew and Ari.
Audiobook review - I thought that the performance was well acted and easy to follow. Great narrator and the pacing is perfect for audio. This is the perfect winter romcom if you are looking for something lighthearted in the new year.
I might even watch Olympic women’s hockey instead of just figure skating and skiing this year!
Thanks to NetGalley and McMillan audio for the arc. Book to be published 2/2/26
#macaudio2025
Ari and Drew meet on New years as she is about to be the captain the British women’s hockey team in the Winter Olympics. He is a photographer and little does Ari know, he is the brother of one of her rivals from the US team. It becomes mutually beneficial to fake date him to avoid her narcissistic Olympian ex, Harrison.
I am shocked at the amount of fake dating tropes that have arisen in 2026 romcoms. It is by far the most common trope that I am seeing for this year, despite the fact that fake dating almost never happens in real life. That aside, I enjoyed this very sweet story and loved the Olympic setting. I don’t know much about hockey, but I loved the storyline about female athletes, how they work together as a team, and the interpersonal relationships. Some really fun and inspiring minor characters. I also love a good kiss cam scene, and I really enjoyed the banter between Drew and Ari.
Audiobook review - I thought that the performance was well acted and easy to follow. Great narrator and the pacing is perfect for audio. This is the perfect winter romcom if you are looking for something lighthearted in the new year.
I might even watch Olympic women’s hockey instead of just figure skating and skiing this year!
Thanks to NetGalley and McMillan audio for the arc. Book to be published 2/2/26
#macaudio2025
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My next audio arc that was given to me by Macmillan audio! Thank you so much! All thoughts and all parts of this review are my own.
I apparently didn’t know I needed a POC Female hockey captain x photographer fake dating romance but this was a lot of fun and a sweet read for the holiday season. This is a closed door “fade to black” romance and there isn’t really any explicit content in this one. I don’t think it needed it though? I liked the external plot and drama happening along side the character growth; that felt like enough plot without the smut needed for this romance.
This read worked for me because it shook up the usual hockey romance roles and sort of gender swapped them. I liked that Ari was a tough lover and was able to find the confidence to say what she needed to and stand up for her self and I like that Drew was just really passionate about sports photography and wasn’t afraid to love the family and friends around him and protect his relationships. This was a sweet read and I do recommend it.
The Audio book was a slight miss for me though, it really. Needed to be a dual narration because of the narrators accent it took a little bit off of Drew’s POV characters. Also the narrators voice for the grandma was not it! Im sorry but it was like hearing a 25 year old valley girl accent on a 70 year old grandma. Would love if we could tweak that part of the story telling for audio but other than that it was good.
I apparently didn’t know I needed a POC Female hockey captain x photographer fake dating romance but this was a lot of fun and a sweet read for the holiday season. This is a closed door “fade to black” romance and there isn’t really any explicit content in this one. I don’t think it needed it though? I liked the external plot and drama happening along side the character growth; that felt like enough plot without the smut needed for this romance.
This read worked for me because it shook up the usual hockey romance roles and sort of gender swapped them. I liked that Ari was a tough lover and was able to find the confidence to say what she needed to and stand up for her self and I like that Drew was just really passionate about sports photography and wasn’t afraid to love the family and friends around him and protect his relationships. This was a sweet read and I do recommend it.
The Audio book was a slight miss for me though, it really. Needed to be a dual narration because of the narrators accent it took a little bit off of Drew’s POV characters. Also the narrators voice for the grandma was not it! Im sorry but it was like hearing a 25 year old valley girl accent on a 70 year old grandma. Would love if we could tweak that part of the story telling for audio but other than that it was good.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Macmillan Audio for the gifted ARC.
I actually just finished this book today and had a great time! It’s a New Year romance with a hockey player FMC and photographer MMC. Their internal conflicts are explored relatively well and I enjoyed their character arcs, but wish we had more on-page time with the two of them. Ari is one of the most pragmatic characters I’ve read and I love that she knows exactly how she deserves to be treated despite having her experiences with an abusive relationship. Drew is adorable but I saw some discrepancies between the character he presents himself as (calm, collected, non-chaotic) and the conflict of his self-sabotage. His character nuance just didn’t mesh for me and therefore I felt much less connected to him.
I did love their chemistry and banter and (repeat) that I wish we had more of them together on page.
Overall, I enjoyed this cute sports romcom and please give me a round of applause for finally completing my first hockey romance! I’m glad it was this one where the hockey player is a Black woman who captains a team that made it to the Olympics! 🥳
Skate It Till You Make it is out on 2/2/26, be sure to get your preorders and holds in! I really enjoyed Lillie-Pearl Wildman‘s performance in this audiobook and appreciated her accents to differentiate characters!
🏒 She’s a Hockey Player
🥅 Fake Dating
🏒 Grief/Illness
🥅 New Year’s Eve Meet Cute
I actually just finished this book today and had a great time! It’s a New Year romance with a hockey player FMC and photographer MMC. Their internal conflicts are explored relatively well and I enjoyed their character arcs, but wish we had more on-page time with the two of them. Ari is one of the most pragmatic characters I’ve read and I love that she knows exactly how she deserves to be treated despite having her experiences with an abusive relationship. Drew is adorable but I saw some discrepancies between the character he presents himself as (calm, collected, non-chaotic) and the conflict of his self-sabotage. His character nuance just didn’t mesh for me and therefore I felt much less connected to him.
I did love their chemistry and banter and (repeat) that I wish we had more of them together on page.
Overall, I enjoyed this cute sports romcom and please give me a round of applause for finally completing my first hockey romance! I’m glad it was this one where the hockey player is a Black woman who captains a team that made it to the Olympics! 🥳
Skate It Till You Make it is out on 2/2/26, be sure to get your preorders and holds in! I really enjoyed Lillie-Pearl Wildman‘s performance in this audiobook and appreciated her accents to differentiate characters!
🏒 She’s a Hockey Player
🥅 Fake Dating
🏒 Grief/Illness
🥅 New Year’s Eve Meet Cute
January 11, 2026
Skate It Till You Make It by Rufaro Faith Mazarura is a charming , heartfelt sports romance that delivers exactly what it promises. This novel has minimal spice, maximum emotion, and a delicious romantic tension. Set against the high stakes backdrop of the Winter Olympics, the novel offers a sneak peek into the life of an athlete in the Olympic village. It is perfect for readers who, like me, love seeing athletes’ off-the-ice moments. It very much gave the same energy as watching Olympian TikToks during the games.
Ari and Drew’s romance shines because of its emotional depth rather than its physical heat. Their chemistry is built through vulnerability, bantered, and shared experience rather than explicit scenes. I was especially drawn to the forbidden romance trope with Drew’s sister playing for a rival ice hockey team. It added an extra layer of tension. The fake dating trope is used effectively amplifying, the slow burn and longing as the games progress.
Overall, this is a romcom with a lot of heart. It balances family, drama and responsibility with personal growth and romantic tension beautifully. Making it an easy recommendation for readers looking for a cozy romance. This is one to pick up if you enjoy sports romance with strong character chemistry and Olympic vibes.
I received an ALC from Macmillan Audio and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ari and Drew’s romance shines because of its emotional depth rather than its physical heat. Their chemistry is built through vulnerability, bantered, and shared experience rather than explicit scenes. I was especially drawn to the forbidden romance trope with Drew’s sister playing for a rival ice hockey team. It added an extra layer of tension. The fake dating trope is used effectively amplifying, the slow burn and longing as the games progress.
Overall, this is a romcom with a lot of heart. It balances family, drama and responsibility with personal growth and romantic tension beautifully. Making it an easy recommendation for readers looking for a cozy romance. This is one to pick up if you enjoy sports romance with strong character chemistry and Olympic vibes.
I received an ALC from Macmillan Audio and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I was in the mood for a sweet winter closed-door romance, and the book did not disappoint. I found the book to be fun and lighthearted. I really enjoyed the relationship between Ari and Drew, from the way they met to how they progressed in their relationship, which was fun to read and had me laughing at times. One thing that had me a little confused was just the overwhelming amount of characters. There was Drew's family, Ari's family as well as the girls on the hockey team. I just felt sometimes I didn't need another name to remember, especially those that weren't really main characters. It just felt like a lot to keep track of at once. And I will say that while I know very, very little about hockey, I was able to follow along, and the hockey plot wasn't confusing at all. I am more interested in photography, so I was able to connect with Drew more.
Overall, a fun winter Olympic romance that's perfect for when you're looking for a cozy romance that'll make you smile. I would definitely recommend and will likely look for other books by the author since I enjoyed this one.
Thank you Flatiron for the ARC! It really got me excited for the Olympics and now I might even try watching Hockey!
Overall, a fun winter Olympic romance that's perfect for when you're looking for a cozy romance that'll make you smile. I would definitely recommend and will likely look for other books by the author since I enjoyed this one.
Thank you Flatiron for the ARC! It really got me excited for the Olympics and now I might even try watching Hockey!
January 5, 2026
This was my first sports-themed romance and I absolutely loved it!
A chance meeting at the NYE party of the year leads to athlete Ari and recent college dropout Drew to sharing a steamy kiss. When fate throws them together again at the Winter Olympics, they find themselves in a fake dating situation that could blow up in their faces and scatter all of their suffocating systems designed to try and please everyone.
I really enjoyed the banter and chemistry between Ari and Drew. They were so sweet and had the cutest calming effect in each other and brought out their softer sides. It was adorable.
Their character arcs alone were also really strong and I loved that this was as much Drew’s story as it was Ari’s. If anything, I felt more invested in Drew’s situation with his sister and grandparents. However, Ari’s journey, as a fellow eldest daughter and recovering people pleaser, made me feel super proud of her growth. There is something else she goes through that made me feel proud of her but ultimately it was a joy seeing her find her voice.
There were plenty of cute moments in this story and I think perhaps I would have liked to see Drew do something really out there as a grand gesture. I also felt that towards the end the message of the story was pushed a little bit harder than I would have liked, which for me hampered pacing a little. But the message was something I would 100% get behind, so that’s not a terrible thing.
Essentially this is a story about living in the now and enjoying the magic of the moment, and I think that’s especially important now in a world that always seem to be encouraging people to constantly do more, want more, or be striving for MORE. A sweet, inspiring, fun read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my ARC.
A chance meeting at the NYE party of the year leads to athlete Ari and recent college dropout Drew to sharing a steamy kiss. When fate throws them together again at the Winter Olympics, they find themselves in a fake dating situation that could blow up in their faces and scatter all of their suffocating systems designed to try and please everyone.
I really enjoyed the banter and chemistry between Ari and Drew. They were so sweet and had the cutest calming effect in each other and brought out their softer sides. It was adorable.
Their character arcs alone were also really strong and I loved that this was as much Drew’s story as it was Ari’s. If anything, I felt more invested in Drew’s situation with his sister and grandparents. However, Ari’s journey, as a fellow eldest daughter and recovering people pleaser, made me feel super proud of her growth. There is something else she goes through that made me feel proud of her but ultimately it was a joy seeing her find her voice.
There were plenty of cute moments in this story and I think perhaps I would have liked to see Drew do something really out there as a grand gesture. I also felt that towards the end the message of the story was pushed a little bit harder than I would have liked, which for me hampered pacing a little. But the message was something I would 100% get behind, so that’s not a terrible thing.
Essentially this is a story about living in the now and enjoying the magic of the moment, and I think that’s especially important now in a world that always seem to be encouraging people to constantly do more, want more, or be striving for MORE. A sweet, inspiring, fun read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ari finds herself juggling too much leading into the Olympics. Not only does she had to avoid her ex, but she's just been named team captain following an injury that places her teammate on the sideline. Meanwhile, Drew is struggling with direction. He dropped out of school, bur was it the right move? A chance meeting on a rooftop on New Years Eve provides them a much needed break. Will a fake relationship give them both what they need to survive the next few weeks? Or is there something more brewing between them?
Read if you like:
-Olympic Romance
-Fake Dating
-Hockey Player x Photographer
-Sister's Rival
-Manipulative Ex
Skate It Till You Make It was amazing! I loved how Ari and Drew found a safe space in the other. They built an emotional connection first and then sort if fell backwards into feelings through fake dating. Drew's character was the most relatable. He was struggling with direction and juggling family versus his own wants. His grand gesture was the highlight of the book. No spoilers as to what it was; you'll just have to read. Ari's transition into the captain role was just as satisfying as Drew's character arc. I loved how it paralleled her inner journey that empowered her to speak her mind. Plus, who doesn't love a feel good Olympic story?
Read if you like:
-Olympic Romance
-Fake Dating
-Hockey Player x Photographer
-Sister's Rival
-Manipulative Ex
Skate It Till You Make It was amazing! I loved how Ari and Drew found a safe space in the other. They built an emotional connection first and then sort if fell backwards into feelings through fake dating. Drew's character was the most relatable. He was struggling with direction and juggling family versus his own wants. His grand gesture was the highlight of the book. No spoilers as to what it was; you'll just have to read. Ari's transition into the captain role was just as satisfying as Drew's character arc. I loved how it paralleled her inner journey that empowered her to speak her mind. Plus, who doesn't love a feel good Olympic story?
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