What do you think?
Rate this book
Ridgewater U #2
BREAKING HIS ICE
I have one rule: I don’t do relationships. Hookups? Sure. Love? Hell no. Love doesn’t fix anything—it just screws you up. I know. I watched it ruin my family.
As captain of the Ridgewater Warriors, my game plan is simple: keep it casual, stay focused, win games. Repeat. And it’s been working just fine—until Samantha Westbrook showed up.
My best friend’s pesky little sister. The girl who’s had a crush on me since she was ten. Now she’s a freshman at Ridgewater U, and she’s everywhere I go, cockblocking every girl who so much as breathes near me.
I spent years brushing her off, telling her to stay away from me. But when she finally stopped chasing me, it messed with my head more than it should’ve. Turns out, I didn’t like it when she actually listened.
Now I can’t stop looking at her. I can’t stop wanting her.
Sam didn’t just break my ice—she wrecked my whole damn game.
Breaking His Ice is book two in the Ridgewater U series—an interconnected standalone featuring a slow-burn brother’s best friend hockey romance with a hard-won happily ever after.
As captain of the Ridgewater Warriors, my game plan is simple: keep it casual, stay focused, win games. Repeat. And it’s been working just fine—until Samantha Westbrook showed up.
My best friend’s pesky little sister. The girl who’s had a crush on me since she was ten. Now she’s a freshman at Ridgewater U, and she’s everywhere I go, cockblocking every girl who so much as breathes near me.
I spent years brushing her off, telling her to stay away from me. But when she finally stopped chasing me, it messed with my head more than it should’ve. Turns out, I didn’t like it when she actually listened.
Now I can’t stop looking at her. I can’t stop wanting her.
Sam didn’t just break my ice—she wrecked my whole damn game.
Breaking His Ice is book two in the Ridgewater U series—an interconnected standalone featuring a slow-burn brother’s best friend hockey romance with a hard-won happily ever after.
845 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2026
About the author
Klastella
5 books40 followersKrista Lastella, also known as KLastella, is an aspiring author who lives in the US with her loving and supportive husband, their happy and very energetic little girl, and their adorable golden retriever named Mochi (sticky rice).
Krista is passionate about crafting stories that either tug at her readers' hearts or drive them mad. With a particular knack for writing angst-filled tales, she thrives on exploring deep, emotional narratives. Though she acknowledges that she still has much to learn, her wide imagination ensures she never runs out of stories to tell.
Her goal is to connect with readers through her unique voice and compelling plots, leaving them eagerly anticipating her next creation.
You can follow Krista on her social media accounts:
Instagram: @klastella06
Facebook Page: klastella06
Krista is passionate about crafting stories that either tug at her readers' hearts or drive them mad. With a particular knack for writing angst-filled tales, she thrives on exploring deep, emotional narratives. Though she acknowledges that she still has much to learn, her wide imagination ensures she never runs out of stories to tell.
Her goal is to connect with readers through her unique voice and compelling plots, leaving them eagerly anticipating her next creation.
You can follow Krista on her social media accounts:
Instagram: @klastella06
Facebook Page: klastella06
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 8, 2026
I can guarantee I’ll be in the minority on this review, and I don’t usually leave reviews with potential to spoil, I try for a less is more review when I can, but I just gotta rant so bad right now, I’m gonna try and mind my p’s and q’s. First and foremost the plot as written could not support an over 800 page count unless you’re inundated with mundane day to day life activities. “I wake up and brush my teeth.” Or, “I run to the cafeteria for lunch…” and we get pages upon pages of the cafe, her art studio, the hockey rink… yet none of those pages move the story any closer to the angst and drama we should have been guaranteed with the setup Lastella teed us up to in book one for these two. We just kinda get stuck in the boring details that if you read book one in this series, you already know Sam is dealing with a serious health scare, so mundane details aren’t needed. She’s got the BIG c to contend with, what book she’s checking out of the library isn’t important. These details are a distraction from the meat and bones of their love story. This was something that went on throughout, I just ended up skipping ahead paragraph by page,until I had dialog or some momentum forward. Then add insult to injury and we get a Bobby Ewing ending from Dallas back in the 80’s that just sealed the rating for me. I’m so sad, I was looking forward to their story and I feel jilted.
April 19, 2026
Loved this book. I loved Sam and all her antics keeping women away from Eli. I also loved that you got to see Eli’s point of view and when he started having feelings for Sam and then having the tables turned on him pursuing Sam using her playbook. It also was heartbreaking in moments that I cried for Sam. It was emotional, funny and I thought a great read. Looking forward to more books from this author.
May 3, 2026
Emotional, Captivating, and Unforgettable
Breaking His Ice by Krista Lastella is an emotional roller coaster that completely pulls you into the lives of Samantha Westbrook and Elijah Devereaux, the hockey captain of Ridgewood University.
From the very beginning, I was hooked. Elijah starts off in complete denial of his feelings, insisting that Samantha is nothing more than his best friend Zach’s little sister. That internal conflict adds such a compelling layer to the story, making their connection even more intense as it slowly unfolds.
Lastella does an incredible job of bringing her characters to life—you don’t just read their story, you feel it. Samantha’s warmth and strength perfectly complement Elijah’s guarded and intense personality, creating a connection that is both powerful and believable.
This book takes you through every emotion. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll cheer them on, and at times your heart will ache right along with them. The writing is engaging, the chemistry is undeniable, and the emotional depth makes this story truly stand out.
If you love romance novels that are heartfelt, character-driven, and full of emotional highs and lows, this is definitely a must-read.
Breaking His Ice by Krista Lastella is an emotional roller coaster that completely pulls you into the lives of Samantha Westbrook and Elijah Devereaux, the hockey captain of Ridgewood University.
From the very beginning, I was hooked. Elijah starts off in complete denial of his feelings, insisting that Samantha is nothing more than his best friend Zach’s little sister. That internal conflict adds such a compelling layer to the story, making their connection even more intense as it slowly unfolds.
Lastella does an incredible job of bringing her characters to life—you don’t just read their story, you feel it. Samantha’s warmth and strength perfectly complement Elijah’s guarded and intense personality, creating a connection that is both powerful and believable.
This book takes you through every emotion. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll cheer them on, and at times your heart will ache right along with them. The writing is engaging, the chemistry is undeniable, and the emotional depth makes this story truly stand out.
If you love romance novels that are heartfelt, character-driven, and full of emotional highs and lows, this is definitely a must-read.
May 4, 2026
I will say I was skeptical going into this book purely based upon its length. I was doubtful that a college hockey romance could keep my attention for 845 plus pages… boy was I wrong. The author did a fantastic job with this one… almost too fantastic because I’m currently icing my eyes from crying so much.
I expected myself to dislike Sam’s character, based upon her unhealthy pining after Eli in the previous book but was surprised when that wasn’t the case. While Sam has an unhealthy obsession with Eli, she’s at least brutally honest about it, she doesn’t try to pretend to be something she’s not. I also loved reading Eli fighting his feelings for her, like he couldn’t quite accept that she was pulling feelings and emotions out of him.
Reason for 4 stars was because I was not expecting this to be a sad story. It caught me by surprise and it gutted me. I’m so glad that there was still a HEA because, for a moment, I was absolutely crushed. The author got me hook, line and sinker here. Just goes to show how well written it was that I became so emotionally tied to the story, to the characters.
I
I expected myself to dislike Sam’s character, based upon her unhealthy pining after Eli in the previous book but was surprised when that wasn’t the case. While Sam has an unhealthy obsession with Eli, she’s at least brutally honest about it, she doesn’t try to pretend to be something she’s not. I also loved reading Eli fighting his feelings for her, like he couldn’t quite accept that she was pulling feelings and emotions out of him.
Reason for 4 stars was because I was not expecting this to be a sad story. It caught me by surprise and it gutted me. I’m so glad that there was still a HEA because, for a moment, I was absolutely crushed. The author got me hook, line and sinker here. Just goes to show how well written it was that I became so emotionally tied to the story, to the characters.
I
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2026
get ready for heartbreak
I totally loved this book. It was beautiful, funny and absolutely heartbreaking.
The yearning and longing and later on groveling.
Although at the beginning I was a little annoyed at both Sam and Eli but it quickly disappeared and I became invested in their story.
And I didn’t anticipated the heartbreak towards the end and I almost couldn’t finish because I was afraid to know how it would end.
I was a little bit worried about the page-count but it absolutely didn’t feel that long.
I would totally recommend this book! And can’t wait for the rest in the series.
I totally loved this book. It was beautiful, funny and absolutely heartbreaking.
The yearning and longing and later on groveling.
Although at the beginning I was a little annoyed at both Sam and Eli but it quickly disappeared and I became invested in their story.
And I didn’t anticipated the heartbreak towards the end and I almost couldn’t finish because I was afraid to know how it would end.
I was a little bit worried about the page-count but it absolutely didn’t feel that long.
I would totally recommend this book! And can’t wait for the rest in the series.
April 20, 2026
A Must-Read Romance! Spoiler Free Review
I absolutely had to share my thoughts on this book! I’ve been eagerly anticipating it ever since finishing the first in the series, Benched by You. I was already deeply invested in Sam and Elijah’s story, and the way that first book ended left me desperate for more.
When I found out this next book would focus on Sam’s story, I did everything I could to get my hands on an ARC—because there was no way I could wait until release day. I was lucky enough to receive one and devoured it in under two days!
This book has everything a great romance should: laughter, heartbreak, growth, and so many emotions in between. I laughed, I cried, and not once did I find myself bored—even at 666 pages, I honestly wished it were longer. You won’t be disappointed, but be prepared to feel everything. The story deals with some heavy, sensitive topics that could be triggering for some, so keep that in mind.
If you want a romance that will make you laugh, cry, and think, this is it. I highly recommend it—but have tissues ready!
Spoiler Review
♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
OMG, I loved this book! I thought it would pick up right after Sam’s hospital stay, but I was pleasantly surprised that it started with her college journey alongside Elijah. That decision made the story even better because we really get to see their relationship evolve.
At first, I was frustrated with Elijah’s cold and distant behavior—I honestly didn’t think I’d be able to like him. But seeing how much he cared for Sam during her cancer treatment completely changed my mind. His growth throughout the story was incredible; he owned up to his mistakes and became someone truly worthy of her.
And that twist at the end? I was a sobbing mess. My heart shattered, and I was in absolute denial, but wow—it was powerful and beautifully done.
Even though I received an ARC, I’ll definitely be buying my own copy to support the author. This book deserves all the love—it’s easily one of my favorite reads of the year.
I absolutely had to share my thoughts on this book! I’ve been eagerly anticipating it ever since finishing the first in the series, Benched by You. I was already deeply invested in Sam and Elijah’s story, and the way that first book ended left me desperate for more.
When I found out this next book would focus on Sam’s story, I did everything I could to get my hands on an ARC—because there was no way I could wait until release day. I was lucky enough to receive one and devoured it in under two days!
This book has everything a great romance should: laughter, heartbreak, growth, and so many emotions in between. I laughed, I cried, and not once did I find myself bored—even at 666 pages, I honestly wished it were longer. You won’t be disappointed, but be prepared to feel everything. The story deals with some heavy, sensitive topics that could be triggering for some, so keep that in mind.
If you want a romance that will make you laugh, cry, and think, this is it. I highly recommend it—but have tissues ready!
Spoiler Review
♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
OMG, I loved this book! I thought it would pick up right after Sam’s hospital stay, but I was pleasantly surprised that it started with her college journey alongside Elijah. That decision made the story even better because we really get to see their relationship evolve.
At first, I was frustrated with Elijah’s cold and distant behavior—I honestly didn’t think I’d be able to like him. But seeing how much he cared for Sam during her cancer treatment completely changed my mind. His growth throughout the story was incredible; he owned up to his mistakes and became someone truly worthy of her.
And that twist at the end? I was a sobbing mess. My heart shattered, and I was in absolute denial, but wow—it was powerful and beautifully done.
Even though I received an ARC, I’ll definitely be buying my own copy to support the author. This book deserves all the love—it’s easily one of my favorite reads of the year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
heartbreakingly beautiful
Oh my god I got ripped apart reading this, then put back together in the best possible. Love Sam what a beautiful character, hated Elijah then loved him more… I knew some of the story line in this book would break me from ready Zach and Caroline but I did not see that coming.. naughty author I was heartbroken. Some grammatical errors but doesn’t take away anything away from the story. Highly recommend. A must read for an ugly cry and beautiful HEA.
Oh my god I got ripped apart reading this, then put back together in the best possible. Love Sam what a beautiful character, hated Elijah then loved him more… I knew some of the story line in this book would break me from ready Zach and Caroline but I did not see that coming.. naughty author I was heartbroken. Some grammatical errors but doesn’t take away anything away from the story. Highly recommend. A must read for an ugly cry and beautiful HEA.
May 3, 2026
10/10 recommend but bring tissues.
Thought starting the last 300 pages at 11pm would be fine and I’d just read a couple chapters before bed and the next thing I know, it’s 2am, I’m sobbing so hard my husband is waking up checking what’s wrong. 10/10 recommend but bring some tissues. Catches you in the feels.
Such beautiful writing. Could’ve been broken into 2 parts but I’m grateful it wasn’t. It flowed so beautifully. There isn’t unnecessary fluff in the book to make it longer, everything was there to build the story and characters and really develop them. Our MMC changes so much or does he just stop hiding himself? It’s beautiful, it’s devastating, it’s everything. Just don’t start the last bit right before bed. You’ll hate yourself in the morning.
Thought starting the last 300 pages at 11pm would be fine and I’d just read a couple chapters before bed and the next thing I know, it’s 2am, I’m sobbing so hard my husband is waking up checking what’s wrong. 10/10 recommend but bring some tissues. Catches you in the feels.
Such beautiful writing. Could’ve been broken into 2 parts but I’m grateful it wasn’t. It flowed so beautifully. There isn’t unnecessary fluff in the book to make it longer, everything was there to build the story and characters and really develop them. Our MMC changes so much or does he just stop hiding himself? It’s beautiful, it’s devastating, it’s everything. Just don’t start the last bit right before bed. You’ll hate yourself in the morning.
May 6, 2026
My absolute favourite book this year! The best I've read in a really long time! I laughed and I cried, boy did I cry!
I often wondered how Elijah was going to redeem himself in my eyes because he was an ass sometimes. Yes, Sam's antics were annoying so some of it was deserved tbh...but I felt it for my girl. My heart broke for her, especially on that date. Ugh!😭
I'm glad it all worked out in the end.❤️❤️❤️
I often wondered how Elijah was going to redeem himself in my eyes because he was an ass sometimes. Yes, Sam's antics were annoying so some of it was deserved tbh...but I felt it for my girl. My heart broke for her, especially on that date. Ugh!😭
I'm glad it all worked out in the end.❤️❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
excuse me 🥹
This was…. Heart wrenching. In the best way. Gosh you just feel EVERYTHING. There were times where I just HATED Eli. FELT for Sam.. that she could hold it together through every rejection.. and then 🥹🥹🥹🥹
This book was thick and wordy but I felt everything. I was sobbing, I was laughing.. it was just so good.
This was…. Heart wrenching. In the best way. Gosh you just feel EVERYTHING. There were times where I just HATED Eli. FELT for Sam.. that she could hold it together through every rejection.. and then 🥹🥹🥹🥹
This book was thick and wordy but I felt everything. I was sobbing, I was laughing.. it was just so good.
May 4, 2026
Rollercoaster of Emotions
After reading book 1 and waiting months for this book, the roller coaster of emotions, the actual tears and having to stop reading as this was triggering for me but I’m soooooo happy for the HEA. This author blows my mind. Excellent.
Author you had me going through every emotion it felt so real the sweet relief I felt. I don’t know how I would feel if there was no HEA. Thank you
After reading book 1 and waiting months for this book, the roller coaster of emotions, the actual tears and having to stop reading as this was triggering for me but I’m soooooo happy for the HEA. This author blows my mind. Excellent.
Author you had me going through every emotion it felt so real the sweet relief I felt. I don’t know how I would feel if there was no HEA. Thank you
May 3, 2026
FANTASTIC ❤️
Im so wrecked right now! This story brought out every emotion…… happiness, laughter, devastation and tears! This book has it all. I will give no spoilers. Just read it! I will definitely recommend ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Im so wrecked right now! This story brought out every emotion…… happiness, laughter, devastation and tears! This book has it all. I will give no spoilers. Just read it! I will definitely recommend ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
May 4, 2026
Amazing Tearjerker Story
This book was so good although after crying for almost 4 hours of reading I didn’t know if I could make it after chapter 57, but so glad I did!!! Love Sam and Eli!!
This book was so good although after crying for almost 4 hours of reading I didn’t know if I could make it after chapter 57, but so glad I did!!! Love Sam and Eli!!
May 1, 2026
Blown away MUST READ BOOK!
If you want to read a book that will take you on a ride of a lifetime this is it. Once you think you know how the story will go you get hit in the heart with something else. There are so many things I wasn't expecting ro happen. I couldn't put this book down even when I tried. Get ready for an emotional roller-coaster that will shatter you then piece your heart back together again over and over. Hands down a must read!!!
If you want to read a book that will take you on a ride of a lifetime this is it. Once you think you know how the story will go you get hit in the heart with something else. There are so many things I wasn't expecting ro happen. I couldn't put this book down even when I tried. Get ready for an emotional roller-coaster that will shatter you then piece your heart back together again over and over. Hands down a must read!!!
May 2, 2026
Wow💕
This story! My heart was shattered and stitched back together in all in a matter of minutes. I can't say I loved it all. There were times that I wanted to punch Eli and there were times I wanted to throttle Sam. I'm not sure there is an emotion that I didn't feel! Loved it!
This story! My heart was shattered and stitched back together in all in a matter of minutes. I can't say I loved it all. There were times that I wanted to punch Eli and there were times I wanted to throttle Sam. I'm not sure there is an emotion that I didn't feel! Loved it!
May 3, 2026
Beautifully done
I have been waiting for this book since finishing book one. It was worth the wait and I read it within 24 hours. Eli and Sam are written so well and while there is a part that cracked my soul a bit to read, the entire story is chef’s kiss.
I have been waiting for this book since finishing book one. It was worth the wait and I read it within 24 hours. Eli and Sam are written so well and while there is a part that cracked my soul a bit to read, the entire story is chef’s kiss.
May 8, 2026
I absolutely loved Benched By You & this book is no different. I enjoyed seeing both Sam's & Eli's perspective throughout the story. Also enjoyed the snippets of characters from the first book.
This author knows how to make you feel all the feels. This book will make you feel happy, then sad, then mad, then slightly embarrassed, then you'll feel them all over again.
While reading Benched By You first isn't necessarily needed, I highly recommend that you do. K Lastella is now an instant read for me & I cannot wait for the rest of this series to drop 💜
This author knows how to make you feel all the feels. This book will make you feel happy, then sad, then mad, then slightly embarrassed, then you'll feel them all over again.
While reading Benched By You first isn't necessarily needed, I highly recommend that you do. K Lastella is now an instant read for me & I cannot wait for the rest of this series to drop 💜
May 1, 2026
Absolutely loved this story! After stumbling across Benched by You, I couldn’t put it down and patiently waited for Sam and Elijah’s story. It did not disappoint. Wit and humor to the tears and anger. This one had me running through all the emotions. I can not wait for book 3. This series is becoming one of my favorites!
May 2, 2026
Emotional Read
This book had all the feels and while it was a long one I didn’t really notice as we were on such an emotional rollercoaster
This book had all the feels and while it was a long one I didn’t really notice as we were on such an emotional rollercoaster
May 3, 2026
THAT WAS MEAN
Okay great book but also what the author did was dirty. SOOOOO dirty. On a different level of messed up.
Okay great book but also what the author did was dirty. SOOOOO dirty. On a different level of messed up.
April 27, 2026
Was so excited to read this book! After reading the first in the series I couldn’t wait for Eli and Sam’s turn. I read this in a few hours, couldn’t put it down. I loved Sam! She’s annoyingly cute and funny. Eli 😒 well let’s just say he wasn’t my favourite person for at least half this book. The way he treated Sam made me angry for her! He did however grovel and in the end I was happy they got their HEA. Took a while to get there and parts of it broke me. I’ve not cried reading a book for a while and this had me in tears! Can’t wait for book 3.
May 2, 2026
Really loved the first book and this one was just as good!!
The last few chapters genuinely had me sob.
The last few chapters genuinely had me sob.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2026
This book broke me, but put me back together again. It was so gut wrenching that I was SOBBING at 3am. It was a rollercoaster of emotions. The first half, Eli pissed me off. And Sam… the cringe I crunged 😭. Eli was so mean to Sam, and she just wouldn’t stop gunning for him. It was brutal 🫣.
Honestly, I didn’t expect the second half of the book to hit me as hard as it did. Once Eli started chasing her and their roles reversed, I was so excited to see how it would go. But then… I don’t want to spoil it. So all I’ll say is that I was crying. So hard that I could barely breathe through it. My heart broke so hard… but then it was put back together again ❤️🩹.
This author wrote such a beautiful love story. She has a way with her words that tugs at the heartstrings. Also her grovel/redemption game is on point. She knows how to make us despise the MMC… but then makes us love him by completely redeeming him by the end. She did this with Benched By You, too. And I liked that one just as much as this one. Actually, I think I loved this one even more. So, I’m definitely excited to read the next Ridgewater U book! Especially Kentaro’s 👀.
Honestly, I didn’t expect the second half of the book to hit me as hard as it did. Once Eli started chasing her and their roles reversed, I was so excited to see how it would go. But then… I don’t want to spoil it. So all I’ll say is that I was crying. So hard that I could barely breathe through it. My heart broke so hard… but then it was put back together again ❤️🩹.
This author wrote such a beautiful love story. She has a way with her words that tugs at the heartstrings. Also her grovel/redemption game is on point. She knows how to make us despise the MMC… but then makes us love him by completely redeeming him by the end. She did this with Benched By You, too. And I liked that one just as much as this one. Actually, I think I loved this one even more. So, I’m definitely excited to read the next Ridgewater U book! Especially Kentaro’s 👀.
April 24, 2026
I am still reeling from this story. It is rare for a book to pull at my heartstrings this hard, but I found myself caught in my feelings—and caught crying—multiple times throughout the day. I honestly couldn't put it down and finished the entire thing in less than 24 hours.
Sam and Eli’s journey is beautifully written and deeply moving. This is only the second time I’ve ever felt the need to message an author directly just to say "thank you" for a story; that’s how much this book meant to me.
While this is the second book in the series, I highly recommend reading the first book beforehand to get the full impact of the world and the characters. If you’re looking for a story that is as evocative as it is engaging, this is it.
Sam and Eli’s journey is beautifully written and deeply moving. This is only the second time I’ve ever felt the need to message an author directly just to say "thank you" for a story; that’s how much this book meant to me.
While this is the second book in the series, I highly recommend reading the first book beforehand to get the full impact of the world and the characters. If you’re looking for a story that is as evocative as it is engaging, this is it.
May 1, 2026
Breaking His Ice is the kind of story that stays with you long after the final page is turned. It is an emotional journey where the tears flow freely, no matter how hard you try to hold them back. The author has a rare gift for capturing the deepest inner feelings of her characters with breathtaking precision.
The heart of this story lies in the dynamic between Sam and Eli. Sam is an incredible protagonist—bright, courageous, and unwavering. For ten years, she offered her love with a bravery that is rare to see, even when met with Eli’s stubborn resistance. Eli, on the other hand, is a complex man haunted by the "baggage" of his past. Trapped by the shadow of his parents' unhappy marriage, he views love as a weakness that might "ruin" him, unaware that his feelings for Sam have already taken deep root.
The most beautiful moments are found in their "love languages." I was particularly moved by how Sam uses her artistic talent to express her devotion, and how Eli—despite his own doubts—strains to meet her in that creative space through the scrapbook. It’s a testament to how love bridges the gap between two very different souls.
As someone who works in cancer research, I was deeply impressed by the author’s portrayal of illness. The narrative captures the nuances of pain and hopelessness—not just for the patient, but for the entire support system—with startling accuracy. It honors the survivors and the fighters, reminding us that your strength defines you.
This isn’t just a simple romance; it is a universal story about resilience. Whether you are an athlete, a patient, or someone simply navigating the "ups and downs" of life, you will find a piece of yourself in these pages. It is a beautiful reminder to cherish those we love and those who love us in return.
I couldn’t put this book down and am already reaching for the next installment in the series. Thank you to the author for sharing this beautiful, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful masterpiece with me!
The heart of this story lies in the dynamic between Sam and Eli. Sam is an incredible protagonist—bright, courageous, and unwavering. For ten years, she offered her love with a bravery that is rare to see, even when met with Eli’s stubborn resistance. Eli, on the other hand, is a complex man haunted by the "baggage" of his past. Trapped by the shadow of his parents' unhappy marriage, he views love as a weakness that might "ruin" him, unaware that his feelings for Sam have already taken deep root.
The most beautiful moments are found in their "love languages." I was particularly moved by how Sam uses her artistic talent to express her devotion, and how Eli—despite his own doubts—strains to meet her in that creative space through the scrapbook. It’s a testament to how love bridges the gap between two very different souls.
As someone who works in cancer research, I was deeply impressed by the author’s portrayal of illness. The narrative captures the nuances of pain and hopelessness—not just for the patient, but for the entire support system—with startling accuracy. It honors the survivors and the fighters, reminding us that your strength defines you.
This isn’t just a simple romance; it is a universal story about resilience. Whether you are an athlete, a patient, or someone simply navigating the "ups and downs" of life, you will find a piece of yourself in these pages. It is a beautiful reminder to cherish those we love and those who love us in return.
I couldn’t put this book down and am already reaching for the next installment in the series. Thank you to the author for sharing this beautiful, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful masterpiece with me!
May 20, 2026
I fell in love with this author on Wattpad. Her writing is real, organically honest, and captivating. Sam both broke my heart and inspired me in equal measure. She was just so SURE of her love for Eli, and nothing he did (and boy did he try) to deter her feelings affected her. Then he was ALL IN, blindsided by his truth- he wanted her, and love, just as much. But of course this author had to take us on a journey filled with angst, fear and devastating heartbreak (iykyk) before we were truly healed. I read this book in a day and a half, and missing meals and ignoring texts were so worth it.
April 30, 2026
Finally we got Sam and Eli's book and Klastella did not miss anything. I cried so hard and finished it in 1 day lol. I was put through the ringer on this book as I did not know how it was going to go. The END THE END! :'( If you havent read the ridgewater series yet please do. Benched by you is first and then breaking his ice. Believe me you will not regret it because Sam and Eli are my everything and my shaylas. The emotions, the heartbreak and the tears are all worth it.
April 29, 2026
I should probably stop doing ARCs because I read other people’s reviews and they are so much better than mine…but I was DYING for this book, so I signed up for the ARC anyway. And I am SO glad I did because it is phenomenal. This book has everything - laughter, heartache, gut punch emotions, heartfelt love, just everything. It was so, so good.
May 1, 2026
I had the honor of of receiving an e-ARC for this book and I am so glad that I did.
This is a heartbreaking story in the most beautiful way! I laughed and cried over and over again while reading it.
I had read the first book in this series and did not think that the author would be able to surpass it but she proved me wrong. The story of Samantha and Elijah just goes to show that love can conquer anything!!!
You will absolutely love this book!
This is a heartbreaking story in the most beautiful way! I laughed and cried over and over again while reading it.
I had read the first book in this series and did not think that the author would be able to surpass it but she proved me wrong. The story of Samantha and Elijah just goes to show that love can conquer anything!!!
You will absolutely love this book!
May 20, 2026
conflicting read
If you want to go through all the emotions this is a good book for you.
And when I say all the emotions I mean all of them with tissues and loud swearing at the characters.
Be prepared.
If you want to go through all the emotions this is a good book for you.
And when I say all the emotions I mean all of them with tissues and loud swearing at the characters.
Be prepared.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews