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Stark Springs Academy #1
Black Diamond
It’s not a place for the weak.
No one here tolerates wimps.
If you can’t handle it, leave.
When Roxie Slade snaps into a pair of skis, there’s no one on Sugarville Mountain in Vermont who can keep up with her. Not even the boys. Still, Roxie was shocked when she received a scholarship to Stark Springs Academy, a boarding school that churns out Olympians in each graduating class. Entering as a high school junior, Roxie can’t wait to learn from renowned coaches and train with the fastest ski racers from all over the globe. But, upon arrival, Roxie discovers that Stark Springs lives under its own set of rules, and it appears one boy plays dictator.
Ryker Black is not friendly and Roxie cannot fathom why everyone wants to be his friend. Sure, he’s gorgeous and rides a snowboard like it’s his fifth limb, but he’s cold, ruthless, and holds way too much power over the Stark Springs population. Roxie won’t put up with it. She’s here to train, and she doesn’t care about impressing anyone off the slopes. The only problem? Ryker Black doesn’t permit defiance. Not without consequences.
No one here tolerates wimps.
If you can’t handle it, leave.
When Roxie Slade snaps into a pair of skis, there’s no one on Sugarville Mountain in Vermont who can keep up with her. Not even the boys. Still, Roxie was shocked when she received a scholarship to Stark Springs Academy, a boarding school that churns out Olympians in each graduating class. Entering as a high school junior, Roxie can’t wait to learn from renowned coaches and train with the fastest ski racers from all over the globe. But, upon arrival, Roxie discovers that Stark Springs lives under its own set of rules, and it appears one boy plays dictator.
Ryker Black is not friendly and Roxie cannot fathom why everyone wants to be his friend. Sure, he’s gorgeous and rides a snowboard like it’s his fifth limb, but he’s cold, ruthless, and holds way too much power over the Stark Springs population. Roxie won’t put up with it. She’s here to train, and she doesn’t care about impressing anyone off the slopes. The only problem? Ryker Black doesn’t permit defiance. Not without consequences.
Unknown Binding
First published January 10, 2016
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About the author
Ali Dean
47 books1,023 followersAli is a USA Today Bestselling author of sports romance. She has always loved to read, especially when there's a happily ever after, but found that there weren't enough books out there featuring girl athletes. So, she decided to work on that. Like the heroines in her books, Ali is an athlete, with running and skiing her favorite sports these days. Ali hails from Vermont and now lives in her own happily-ever-after in Colorado with her husband, two sets of twins, and golden retriever Pancake. When she's not pursuing an outdoor adventure, Ali's less healthy passions include ice cream, coffee, and beer.
Get to know Ali Dean by following her on any of her social media and author links below.
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Get to know Ali Dean by following her on any of her social media and author links below.
www.alideanfiction.com
www.facebook.com/alideanfiction
www.twitter.com/alideanfiction
www.instagram.com/alideanfiction
www.bookbub.com/profile/ali-dean
www.pinterest.com/alidean750
Sign up for Ali's newsletter and receive free short stories as a welcome gift! https://www.subscribepage.com/alidean...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 217 reviews
March 19, 2016
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Ali Dean.)
This was a good YA romance featuring winter sports.
Ryker was an absolute jerk in this book. He was mean, rude, and a bully, and I really didn’t like him, he did grow on me a bit as the book went on though. Roxie was headstrong and determined, and I liked how she stood up to Ryker and put him in his place, even when she ended up punished for it.
The storyline in this was pretty good, and I liked the parts about the skiing. We also got quite a sweet romance, even though Ryker wasn’t very likeable at times, and this really made the book for me.
The ending to this was good, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
7 out of 10
“Before I can remind him why we stopped in the first place, he uses one hand to pull my own goggles away and the other to hold me steady before he claims my mouth with his.”
This was a good YA romance featuring winter sports.
Ryker was an absolute jerk in this book. He was mean, rude, and a bully, and I really didn’t like him, he did grow on me a bit as the book went on though. Roxie was headstrong and determined, and I liked how she stood up to Ryker and put him in his place, even when she ended up punished for it.
The storyline in this was pretty good, and I liked the parts about the skiing. We also got quite a sweet romance, even though Ryker wasn’t very likeable at times, and this really made the book for me.
The ending to this was good, and I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
7 out of 10
June 25, 2017
this was quite a surprise...i had an itch to read smth not really too complicated but still angsty, without extra teen drama but still placing the plot into a tight, closed up space/surroundings and of course, being at least similar in some ways to Fallen Crest High, Corrupt, The Silver Swan, The Elite...
Blah, you're probably thinking...good luck with that...bwahahah
and yet, voila, I did find smth resembling to all of the mentioned above...*bullseye*
First time I'm reading anytthing by this author...
I was once more pleasantly surprised and i quite enjoyed myself.
The story
Young talented ski racer Roxanne/Roxie Slade gets a scholarship to attend highly acclaimed Stark Springs Academy. The school that delivered many Olympic chams of winter sports. The first excitment slowly simmers down when she realizes that the school is run by the snowboard prodigy Ryker Black.
She doesn't get what the big deal is, and she defies him every step of the way...but everything is not as it seems...and Ryker does run the school but not for the reasons she'd think...
His life was set in the "ruling" direction from the early ages, and he took the position of a CEO of a huge family empire of sport goods onto his 18 year old back. So him and his mean and spiteful posse that follows every single of his rules, bossing around the school, is everything and all he's ever known.
Until her.
Until she proves him that he could change...his ways...if he'd be willing to do so.
And she'd prove to him that money, legacy and connections are not the only thing that makes things happen - it's a heart of a fighter, it's determination and hard resilient work, it's pushing the limits and Building a character having the talent is only the peek of the iceberg.
and that's not all they were both fighting against before realizing how futile the fight was...
Inspite of the liability in age credibility at certain points I found this read interesting, angsty and fast...just like a perfect snack...
Blah, you're probably thinking...good luck with that...bwahahah
and yet, voila, I did find smth resembling to all of the mentioned above...*bullseye*
First time I'm reading anytthing by this author...
I was once more pleasantly surprised and i quite enjoyed myself.
The story
Young talented ski racer Roxanne/Roxie Slade gets a scholarship to attend highly acclaimed Stark Springs Academy. The school that delivered many Olympic chams of winter sports. The first excitment slowly simmers down when she realizes that the school is run by the snowboard prodigy Ryker Black.
She doesn't get what the big deal is, and she defies him every step of the way...but everything is not as it seems...and Ryker does run the school but not for the reasons she'd think...
His life was set in the "ruling" direction from the early ages, and he took the position of a CEO of a huge family empire of sport goods onto his 18 year old back. So him and his mean and spiteful posse that follows every single of his rules, bossing around the school, is everything and all he's ever known.
Until her.
Until she proves him that he could change...his ways...if he'd be willing to do so.
And she'd prove to him that money, legacy and connections are not the only thing that makes things happen - it's a heart of a fighter, it's determination and hard resilient work, it's pushing the limits and Building a character having the talent is only the peek of the iceberg.
and that's not all they were both fighting against before realizing how futile the fight was...
Inspite of the liability in age credibility at certain points I found this read interesting, angsty and fast...just like a perfect snack...
July 26, 2016
Full review.
This book started so horrible that I couldn't pick it up to continue for more than a week, but once I did, it seemed that it is over the super awkward, unbelievable and terrible part. At least for some time... Don't get me wrong, this is still a pretty unbelievable story, yet, it was bearable and even interesting at time.
I lacked connection with the characters, I could relate a bit to Ryker, but somewhere in the middle I stopped liking him. I was constantly battling myself about bad or cliche events which made me frown, but I have to give it to the book - in the second half there was an event which gripped me and made the pages turn very quickly. That seemed to be a really nice and interesting, and unexpected plot driver, which I appreciated a lot. But over all - the book wasn't anything special, but as I am a slacker for this type of stories, I will keep my eye open for the next part. Also I have to note that this is more a story driven by intrigues and tension from that than romance.
I loved all the input we got about winter sports. I haven't done any training, but it was pretty cool to read and remember the times I have done some of them for fun.
This book started so horrible that I couldn't pick it up to continue for more than a week, but once I did, it seemed that it is over the super awkward, unbelievable and terrible part. At least for some time... Don't get me wrong, this is still a pretty unbelievable story, yet, it was bearable and even interesting at time.
I lacked connection with the characters, I could relate a bit to Ryker, but somewhere in the middle I stopped liking him. I was constantly battling myself about bad or cliche events which made me frown, but I have to give it to the book - in the second half there was an event which gripped me and made the pages turn very quickly. That seemed to be a really nice and interesting, and unexpected plot driver, which I appreciated a lot. But over all - the book wasn't anything special, but as I am a slacker for this type of stories, I will keep my eye open for the next part. Also I have to note that this is more a story driven by intrigues and tension from that than romance.
I loved all the input we got about winter sports. I haven't done any training, but it was pretty cool to read and remember the times I have done some of them for fun.
July 9, 2018
Title: Black Diamond
Author: Ali Dean
Rating: 2 stars
HEA:
“Ask me? You never ask, Ryker, you just take.”
He smirks, still staring at the fire. “That’s only because I’m afraid you’ll say no.”
The premises were charming. Hero and Heroine were at each other’s throat after the first two pages.
Unfortunately, 5 chapters later, the main plot went downhill. **sighs**
He took an interest in her, she took an interest in him… BUT THERE WERE NO SPARKS, NO FIREWORKS, NO HEART WRENCHING MOMENTS.
He was the king bee of this weird little snobbish group, called *The Posse* who talked trash behind other people’s back and then proceeded to ignore half the athletes on campus… Just because. Maybe they thought they were entitled to behave like stupid bullies? Maybe. I still don’t get their angle.
The heroine, at first, tried to resist the attraction by flipping the hero off (figuratively, of course) and refusing to have dinner with his entourage; then she simply gave up on that task (why?!) and turned into a total snail (a weak one).
After reading the blurb I was expecting something entirely different. Ryker was supposed to be a gifted snowboarder, but I never heard him say, not even once, “Snowboarding means … to me.” I was quite disappointed.
I didn’t enjoy Hero and Heroine’s relationship (or lack thereof) and I wasn’t a fan of their dialogues (or lack thereof).
Writing was good, though, but it wasn’t enough.
I’m sorry to give this rough gem only 2 stars, but I was so tired of waiting for something that never happened.
Once upon a time the heroine had a backbone and then she just destroyed it by bending herself like a pretzel. Unacceptable.
I loved reading about winter sports and competitions, but some parts of this book should have been polished waaaaay better.
Author: Ali Dean
Rating: 2 stars
HEA:
“Ask me? You never ask, Ryker, you just take.”
He smirks, still staring at the fire. “That’s only because I’m afraid you’ll say no.”
The premises were charming. Hero and Heroine were at each other’s throat after the first two pages.
Unfortunately, 5 chapters later, the main plot went downhill. **sighs**
He took an interest in her, she took an interest in him… BUT THERE WERE NO SPARKS, NO FIREWORKS, NO HEART WRENCHING MOMENTS.
He was the king bee of this weird little snobbish group, called *The Posse* who talked trash behind other people’s back and then proceeded to ignore half the athletes on campus… Just because. Maybe they thought they were entitled to behave like stupid bullies? Maybe. I still don’t get their angle.
The heroine, at first, tried to resist the attraction by flipping the hero off (figuratively, of course) and refusing to have dinner with his entourage; then she simply gave up on that task (why?!) and turned into a total snail (a weak one).
After reading the blurb I was expecting something entirely different. Ryker was supposed to be a gifted snowboarder, but I never heard him say, not even once, “Snowboarding means … to me.” I was quite disappointed.
I didn’t enjoy Hero and Heroine’s relationship (or lack thereof) and I wasn’t a fan of their dialogues (or lack thereof).
Writing was good, though, but it wasn’t enough.
I’m sorry to give this rough gem only 2 stars, but I was so tired of waiting for something that never happened.
Once upon a time the heroine had a backbone and then she just destroyed it by bending herself like a pretzel. Unacceptable.
I loved reading about winter sports and competitions, but some parts of this book should have been polished waaaaay better.
July 4, 2016
Cute read!
August 8, 2025
First book in a YA, sports-romance trilogy
Roxie Slade, a seventeen-year-old rising junior, has become a champion ski racer in an extremely expensive sport in her home town of Sugarville Mountain, Vermont. But there is only so far she can go in her sport without a great deal more money than her middle-class parents can afford to send her to important competitions. Until, amazingly, she receives the enormous windfall of a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Stark Springs Academy, an exclusive boarding school in the gorgeous Colorado mountains. It caters to elite, winter-sports athletes and is world famous for regularly fostering Olympians. Roxie will be receiving training from renowned coaches and offered the opportunity, all expenses paid, to compete in prominent skiing competitions in the US, Canada, and Europe.
Unfortunately, soon after she arrives, she comes under the domineering attention of gorgeous, 18-year-old senior, Ryker Black, an incredibly skilled snowboarder. For some mysterious reason, he acts as if he is the dictator of the school, and he is determined to bring Roxie under his thumb.
This novel is the first in a trilogy that is basically one long, serialized novel. It is important to read all three books and read them in order. Please see my review of the box set for this series for my overall impression.
Roxie Slade, a seventeen-year-old rising junior, has become a champion ski racer in an extremely expensive sport in her home town of Sugarville Mountain, Vermont. But there is only so far she can go in her sport without a great deal more money than her middle-class parents can afford to send her to important competitions. Until, amazingly, she receives the enormous windfall of a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Stark Springs Academy, an exclusive boarding school in the gorgeous Colorado mountains. It caters to elite, winter-sports athletes and is world famous for regularly fostering Olympians. Roxie will be receiving training from renowned coaches and offered the opportunity, all expenses paid, to compete in prominent skiing competitions in the US, Canada, and Europe.
Unfortunately, soon after she arrives, she comes under the domineering attention of gorgeous, 18-year-old senior, Ryker Black, an incredibly skilled snowboarder. For some mysterious reason, he acts as if he is the dictator of the school, and he is determined to bring Roxie under his thumb.
This novel is the first in a trilogy that is basically one long, serialized novel. It is important to read all three books and read them in order. Please see my review of the box set for this series for my overall impression.
February 5, 2019
Sport romance... And I mean, really SPORTY. Endless details. But well researched and worthy. However the hero? Douche canoe. Not much to say here. If you're into competitive winter sports, asshole heroes and no real steam? You're gonna love this...
this entire series didnt rock my boat.
this entire series didnt rock my boat.
Want to read
March 25, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/25/2020)! 🎁
March 3, 2017
I received this entire series from Netgalley in return for a review and I am sorry but I finished the first book and could not go on. What did I just read? It’s like 50 Shades of Grey for teenagers but without the questionable BDSM, just straight up possessive, controlling behaviour. Is that supposed to be a turn on?
Ryker made steam come out of my ears every single time he opened his mouth, he was a giant jerk manchild that couldn’t deal with people having their own mind and not blindly following him.
Roxie started off headstrong and I thought oh here we go a girl with some potential but that thought didn’t last, she became gullible and easily lead.
I’m not going to read any more of the series because I don’t think emotional, verbal or physical abuse of any level needs to be romanticised in any way, shape or form. Anyone that defends this book by saying it’s not abusive - how is telling someone who they can speak to and what they’re allowed to do and to follow his rules or else, anything but abusive?
This entire book was a shit-show for me from start to finish and I don’t even know how I made it through the 1st one at all to be quite honest.
Ryker made steam come out of my ears every single time he opened his mouth, he was a giant jerk manchild that couldn’t deal with people having their own mind and not blindly following him.
Roxie started off headstrong and I thought oh here we go a girl with some potential but that thought didn’t last, she became gullible and easily lead.
I’m not going to read any more of the series because I don’t think emotional, verbal or physical abuse of any level needs to be romanticised in any way, shape or form. Anyone that defends this book by saying it’s not abusive - how is telling someone who they can speak to and what they’re allowed to do and to follow his rules or else, anything but abusive?
This entire book was a shit-show for me from start to finish and I don’t even know how I made it through the 1st one at all to be quite honest.
December 19, 2018
"When he drives under a lamp, his smile widens, and I notice for the first time a dimple under his right cheekbone.
Oh no, this isn't good.
A guy like Ryker Black cannot have dimples.
It's wrong. And right. Too right."
Since I read "Kick" by Ali Dean and loved it, I've been wanting to read the rest of her books and I got the chance to get this series on booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
My first mistake was to read the reviews here on Goodreads before starting the book. I was already overanalyzing everything Ryker did or said because of it. I'm not saying he's gonna get on my book boyfriend list anytime soon but it's better to dive into the story without knowing what to expect or what other reads thought of it.
Still... I spent 90% of this book pissed at Ryker and the posse and everything they tried to rule in that school. I hated his attitude and his smug arrogance. I was really on board for Roxie to ignore him and make him step down from his throne. And, even though that worked, I'm sure he would not have changed if Roxie bent to his crazy rules.
"You never say what I expect you to say, Roxanne. You never do what I expect, either. Each time I ask you to hang out, I wonder if you'll go off on me, or ignore me."
"Ask me? You never ask, Ryker, you just take."
He smirks, still staring at the fire. "That's only because I'm afraid you'll say no."
I always enjoyed a good YA and this one was good to read. The writing is good, the storyline is also interesting.
I read it in one sitting.
For me, the best aspect of this book was that Roxie never gave up. She was put at the limit several times and she still returned the next day with her head high and ready to prove that she deserved to be there. Every time she raced, I got so nervous, like I was the one racing down a mountain but I just believed in this character and wanted her to shove her talent in the faces of all the people that doubted her.
I'm looking forward to reading the second book and see what will happen now that the "power" shifted in Stark.
"It's not practical, it's not logical, and it's totally unreasonable, but it's undeniable. You've got me tied up and wrapped around your finger, and you don't even know it."
August 8, 2025
Fun, YA sports romance with a sexy, Harlequin Presents type of rich, alpha hero
Seventeen-year-old rising junior, Roxie Slade, has become a champion ski racer in an extremely expensive sport in her home town of Sugarville Mountain, Vermont. But there is only so far she can go in her sport without a great deal more money than her middle-class parents can afford to send her to important competitions. Until, amazingly, she receives the enormous windfall of a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Stark Springs Academy, an exclusive boarding school in the gorgeous Colorado mountains. It caters to elite, winter-sports athletes and is world famous for regularly fostering Olympians. Roxie will be receiving training from renowned coaches and offered the opportunity, all expenses paid, to compete in prominent skiing competitions in the US, Canada, and Europe.
Unfortunately, soon after she arrives, she comes under the domineering attention of gorgeous, 18-year-old senior, Ryker Black, an incredibly skilled snowboarder. For some mysterious reason, he acts as if he is the dictator of the school, and he is determined to bring Roxie under his thumb.
This fun, YA sports romance has more than a little flavor of a Harlequin Presents novel, with its ultra rich, alpha romance hero. Though the main plot centers, as is this author’s brand, on a gutsy heroine who is an elite athlete, there is a touch of romantic suspense in a crucial subplot, as well as enough focus on the enticing chemistry between Roxie and Ryker for this novel to be labeled a YA sports romance.
This is the first novel in a three-book series that is written—as is typical for YA novels—entirely in the first-person point of view of Roxie. In order to enjoy the complete arc of Roxie’s adventures, it is important to read all three books, in order.
I rate this novel as follows:
Heroine: 5 stars
Hero: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 5 stars
Sports Plot: 5 stars
Romance Plot: 5 stars
Suspense Plot: 4 stars
Setting: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Overall: 5 stars
Seventeen-year-old rising junior, Roxie Slade, has become a champion ski racer in an extremely expensive sport in her home town of Sugarville Mountain, Vermont. But there is only so far she can go in her sport without a great deal more money than her middle-class parents can afford to send her to important competitions. Until, amazingly, she receives the enormous windfall of a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Stark Springs Academy, an exclusive boarding school in the gorgeous Colorado mountains. It caters to elite, winter-sports athletes and is world famous for regularly fostering Olympians. Roxie will be receiving training from renowned coaches and offered the opportunity, all expenses paid, to compete in prominent skiing competitions in the US, Canada, and Europe.
Unfortunately, soon after she arrives, she comes under the domineering attention of gorgeous, 18-year-old senior, Ryker Black, an incredibly skilled snowboarder. For some mysterious reason, he acts as if he is the dictator of the school, and he is determined to bring Roxie under his thumb.
This fun, YA sports romance has more than a little flavor of a Harlequin Presents novel, with its ultra rich, alpha romance hero. Though the main plot centers, as is this author’s brand, on a gutsy heroine who is an elite athlete, there is a touch of romantic suspense in a crucial subplot, as well as enough focus on the enticing chemistry between Roxie and Ryker for this novel to be labeled a YA sports romance.
This is the first novel in a three-book series that is written—as is typical for YA novels—entirely in the first-person point of view of Roxie. In order to enjoy the complete arc of Roxie’s adventures, it is important to read all three books, in order.
I rate this novel as follows:
Heroine: 5 stars
Hero: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 5 stars
Sports Plot: 5 stars
Romance Plot: 5 stars
Suspense Plot: 4 stars
Setting: 5 stars
Writing: 5 stars
Overall: 5 stars
February 6, 2023
I am embarrassed to say I actually read and finished this book. The only reason it isn't 1 star is because the author had mercy and made it short. For that, and only that, I thank you Ali Dean.
January 3, 2017
This book is set in such a fictional type ski academy it was hard to relate to the characters. I liked Roxie, but she wasn't fully fleshed out. Ryker is such a vague, hot, controlling character whom I felt didn't have enough back story to be interested in.
I still can't believe what Aspen and Winter did to Roxie because she definitely could have died. I understand her anger and sadness over her perception of Ryker's involvement with leaving her out on the mountain to either die or get back to Stark.
The ending is kind of rushed to lead to book 2. I will continue with the second book to see if the writing gets better and/or my interest in the characters increase.
My rating is 2.75.
Happy reading!
I still can't believe what Aspen and Winter did to Roxie because she definitely could have died. I understand her anger and sadness over her perception of Ryker's involvement with leaving her out on the mountain to either die or get back to Stark.
The ending is kind of rushed to lead to book 2. I will continue with the second book to see if the writing gets better and/or my interest in the characters increase.
My rating is 2.75.
Happy reading!
February 7, 2017
Five Roxie Stars
I loved this book and I absolutely love Ryker black! There's just something about their connection and his personality that is just so perfect for me! Let alone this book does give off slight tijan feels which is always great to have.
I loved this book and I absolutely love Ryker black! There's just something about their connection and his personality that is just so perfect for me! Let alone this book does give off slight tijan feels which is always great to have.
October 13, 2016
there is a difference between a bad boy and an abuser...
April 5, 2019
Love Ryder Black
I liked the start to this series. The book kept me interested till the very end and I cannot wait to read more
I liked the start to this series. The book kept me interested till the very end and I cannot wait to read more
Read
March 23, 2017Red flag, boring stereotype, red flag, red flag, *snooooore*, red flag, open Kindle app "Why is this still here?"
January 23, 2016
I was excited to start the next series by young adult/new adult author, Ali Dean. I adored her Pepper Jones series, the way she writes strong females who excel in sports with a heavy dose of angsty romance, and Black Diamond fits that formula to a T. Roxie Slade is a determined skier and a force to be reckoned with in her small Vermont town, but when she has an opportunity to train with the best of the best at the Stark Springs Academy in Colorado, she'll be put to the test. And not just in the way she thought. She knew she'd have to train hard, that's what she's there for, but the egos and competitiveness of elite athletes both on and off the snow and ice is more than she bargained for. While the book isn't perfect, it's the first one in awhile that has been impossible for me to put down, earning it a full five out of five stars from me.
Plot
Because this is a sports romance, the plot is is two-fold. Roxie works to fit in as a high school junior where most of the kids arrived in seventh or eighth grade. Joining at her age is nearly unheard of and rumors abound over why she's there at all. She know she has a lot to prove, but understanding the odd dynamics of the school and the way one student in particular, Ryker Black, seems to be in charge, is just one of the many mysteries surrounding the Academy. Ryker Black isn't just an alpha male, he's an alpha, wrapped in attitude, and a temper to match. Yet Roxie sees something more beneath the facade, a vulnerability that draws her to him, even as she knows she should stay far, far away. Everyone's warned her as much, including Ryker Black himself.
Both plots are intricately woven and well done. About my only complaint about the plot is that I would have liked more of the sports aspect. With the Pepper Jones series, we really got into Pepper's head during each of her big runs, but in Black Diamond, the actual ski racing is less detailed than the training leading up to it.
Characters
Roxie has a lot in common with Pepper. In fact, in some ways they're nearly the same character, which is okay with me, because I love Pepper Jone so much. But Ryker Black is no Jace Wilder. There are shades of similarity between some of the other characters as well, but none of that is bad because the story is different enough, I got lost in that and soon forgot the characters felt familiar.
Roxie is fantastic, the type of heroine you can't help rooting for. Her head's in the right place, most of the time, and she's above the pettiness surrounding many of her fellow athletes. At times she comes across mature for her age, other times, she's a typical teen.
Ryker Black is an enigma. He's dark, controlling, and yet there's something there. Something Roxie shows us through her eyes, that allowed me to see more to him than just a stereotype. The boy is complicated and Ali Dean has only scratched that surface so far. I can't wait to see how his character develops throughout the series.
Ending
The ending was exactly what I was hoping for, satisfying in so many ways.
What Didn't Work for Me
1. Not enough skiing. As I said above, I would have liked more skiing. The book is short at less than two hundred pages, and I think it could have been a little longer to bring us more skiing from Roxie's point of view.
2. Stereotypes. The mean girls were relatively stereotypical. They served their purpose, but it would have been nice to see them a little more well-rounded and complex. Especially as elite athletes. There's a lot of reasons for them to be the way they are, I just would have liked to see a little of that.
What I Loved About Black Diamond
1. Roxie Slade. A believable badass both on and off the slopes, she's got integrity, a strong worth ethic, and a winning spirit.
2. Skiing. I love picturing the snow, the mountains, feeling the cold air. Ali Dean does a great job of scene setting, making the environment come alive.
3. Competitive sports. Another thing the author really does is bring us deep inside the world of competitive sports so that we can almost taste the desire to win.
4. True friends. While Roxie struggles to make friends at Stark Springs, her Vermont friends are true blue, and I love them.
5. Ryker Black. I'm still not sure I'm totally on board with a Roxyer romancer or is that Rykie? In any case, the jury is still out on how I feel about them together, but I can't deny he is an absolutely fascinating character.
Bottom Line
Black Diamond is a fun, fast read with plenty of drama, angst-ridden romance, and lots and lots of snow.
Disclaimer
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Plot
Because this is a sports romance, the plot is is two-fold. Roxie works to fit in as a high school junior where most of the kids arrived in seventh or eighth grade. Joining at her age is nearly unheard of and rumors abound over why she's there at all. She know she has a lot to prove, but understanding the odd dynamics of the school and the way one student in particular, Ryker Black, seems to be in charge, is just one of the many mysteries surrounding the Academy. Ryker Black isn't just an alpha male, he's an alpha, wrapped in attitude, and a temper to match. Yet Roxie sees something more beneath the facade, a vulnerability that draws her to him, even as she knows she should stay far, far away. Everyone's warned her as much, including Ryker Black himself.
Both plots are intricately woven and well done. About my only complaint about the plot is that I would have liked more of the sports aspect. With the Pepper Jones series, we really got into Pepper's head during each of her big runs, but in Black Diamond, the actual ski racing is less detailed than the training leading up to it.
Characters
Roxie has a lot in common with Pepper. In fact, in some ways they're nearly the same character, which is okay with me, because I love Pepper Jone so much. But Ryker Black is no Jace Wilder. There are shades of similarity between some of the other characters as well, but none of that is bad because the story is different enough, I got lost in that and soon forgot the characters felt familiar.
Roxie is fantastic, the type of heroine you can't help rooting for. Her head's in the right place, most of the time, and she's above the pettiness surrounding many of her fellow athletes. At times she comes across mature for her age, other times, she's a typical teen.
Ryker Black is an enigma. He's dark, controlling, and yet there's something there. Something Roxie shows us through her eyes, that allowed me to see more to him than just a stereotype. The boy is complicated and Ali Dean has only scratched that surface so far. I can't wait to see how his character develops throughout the series.
Ending
The ending was exactly what I was hoping for, satisfying in so many ways.
What Didn't Work for Me
1. Not enough skiing. As I said above, I would have liked more skiing. The book is short at less than two hundred pages, and I think it could have been a little longer to bring us more skiing from Roxie's point of view.
2. Stereotypes. The mean girls were relatively stereotypical. They served their purpose, but it would have been nice to see them a little more well-rounded and complex. Especially as elite athletes. There's a lot of reasons for them to be the way they are, I just would have liked to see a little of that.
What I Loved About Black Diamond
1. Roxie Slade. A believable badass both on and off the slopes, she's got integrity, a strong worth ethic, and a winning spirit.
2. Skiing. I love picturing the snow, the mountains, feeling the cold air. Ali Dean does a great job of scene setting, making the environment come alive.
3. Competitive sports. Another thing the author really does is bring us deep inside the world of competitive sports so that we can almost taste the desire to win.
4. True friends. While Roxie struggles to make friends at Stark Springs, her Vermont friends are true blue, and I love them.
5. Ryker Black. I'm still not sure I'm totally on board with a Roxyer romancer or is that Rykie? In any case, the jury is still out on how I feel about them together, but I can't deny he is an absolutely fascinating character.
Bottom Line
Black Diamond is a fun, fast read with plenty of drama, angst-ridden romance, and lots and lots of snow.
Disclaimer
I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2016
I don’t read many sports-oriented YA romances, so Black Diamond was refreshing to read. I absolutely loved reading this book, and especially enjoyed all of the drama, romance and exciting sports events.
I first want to talk about the romance. This is a major part of the book that I really enjoyed. If you can’t already glean from the synopsis, romance blossoms between the two main characters, Roxie and Ryker. I liked the two’s chemistry and how Roxie was determined and adamant about what she believed in and how she felt about the way Ryker dealt with people, even when people tried to undermine her. The romance definitely kept the story moving and influenced how fast I read this book. I do have a few quibbles about the romance nonetheless, though definitely nothing major. I did feel that the relationship progressed a little fast at the beginning. You could chalk it up to insta-attraction, but I still felt like the initial encounters weren’t enough to build a romantic relationship quite yet. However, as we get deeper into the story, I became more invested in Roxie and Ryker’s relationship. Again, I don’t think there were enough encounters for the romance to be as developed as it could have been, but by the end of the story, I was still quite happy with it nonetheless.
It’s been a long time since I read a YA book revolving around winter sports, and in Black Diamond, Roxie is a talented skier. Ryker is a snowboarder and Roxie’s friends are figure skaters, and we see those sports and others represented through Roxie’s time at Stark Springs Academy. I enjoyed reading about these sports and the training and competitions involved. I did find myself skimming some of the more dense paragraphs at times though.
I think all of the characters were really well developed. I did feel that some of Roxie’s friends at Stark would drop out of the story at points and then re-enter when they were more important. However, I still connected with them and to an extent, could understand the antagonists of the book.
Looking back on the story after I had finished the book, I did feel that nothing really much had happened. I enjoyed the journey but besides a few things, it could be deemed rather uneventful. However, it is redeemed by the fact that I found it so easy to read. I didn’t get hung up on any plot holes or forgotten points and the writing was fluent and flowed really well. Before I knew it, I was more than halfway through the book and then at the end.
The last race was very exciting and I was really happy at the outcome after Roxie’s hard work and determination. I’m not sure if was too convenient as he had always stayed adamant about this point until now. The ending definitely ties everything together, but there is material for the sequel as the reader can foresee there will be challenges ahead for both Roxie and Ryker.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading such an easy, fun book. I liked the characters, romance, sports, and the drama of Stark Springs. Black Diamond is a promising start to the series and I will definitely be checking out its sequel.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I first want to talk about the romance. This is a major part of the book that I really enjoyed. If you can’t already glean from the synopsis, romance blossoms between the two main characters, Roxie and Ryker. I liked the two’s chemistry and how Roxie was determined and adamant about what she believed in and how she felt about the way Ryker dealt with people, even when people tried to undermine her. The romance definitely kept the story moving and influenced how fast I read this book. I do have a few quibbles about the romance nonetheless, though definitely nothing major. I did feel that the relationship progressed a little fast at the beginning. You could chalk it up to insta-attraction, but I still felt like the initial encounters weren’t enough to build a romantic relationship quite yet. However, as we get deeper into the story, I became more invested in Roxie and Ryker’s relationship. Again, I don’t think there were enough encounters for the romance to be as developed as it could have been, but by the end of the story, I was still quite happy with it nonetheless.
It’s been a long time since I read a YA book revolving around winter sports, and in Black Diamond, Roxie is a talented skier. Ryker is a snowboarder and Roxie’s friends are figure skaters, and we see those sports and others represented through Roxie’s time at Stark Springs Academy. I enjoyed reading about these sports and the training and competitions involved. I did find myself skimming some of the more dense paragraphs at times though.
I think all of the characters were really well developed. I did feel that some of Roxie’s friends at Stark would drop out of the story at points and then re-enter when they were more important. However, I still connected with them and to an extent, could understand the antagonists of the book.
Looking back on the story after I had finished the book, I did feel that nothing really much had happened. I enjoyed the journey but besides a few things, it could be deemed rather uneventful. However, it is redeemed by the fact that I found it so easy to read. I didn’t get hung up on any plot holes or forgotten points and the writing was fluent and flowed really well. Before I knew it, I was more than halfway through the book and then at the end.
The last race was very exciting and I was really happy at the outcome after Roxie’s hard work and determination. I’m not sure if was too convenient as he had always stayed adamant about this point until now. The ending definitely ties everything together, but there is material for the sequel as the reader can foresee there will be challenges ahead for both Roxie and Ryker.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading such an easy, fun book. I liked the characters, romance, sports, and the drama of Stark Springs. Black Diamond is a promising start to the series and I will definitely be checking out its sequel.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2016
If you love a well-written sports romance with a terrific heroine, this book is definitely for you! Roxie ranks as one of my top book female athletes of all time. She is so relatable - she's incredibly talented but doesn't yet realize her full potential, has insecurities like everyone else and has a good moral center that allows her to flourish as a person and athlete. She's a great friend and teammate with a good sense of humor who happens to be an amazing athlete, but doesn't realize how special she is. I found myself really rooting for her while she is encouraging others, in both a direct and indirect way, to stand up for the underdog and to challenge the status quo (in a good way). Roxie reminded me a little bit of an athlete version of Beca in Pitch Perfect, but in a much more intense, overprivileged athletic setting.
I also love how Ali Dean explains sports, in this case, skiing, and the competitions and training associated with it. Her writing style is so engaging, and I felt as if I were training along with Roxie. The description of the competition at the end was so vivid that I reread it multiple times because I loved it that much. I felt as if I were right there with Roxie.
The situation at Stark Springs seemed a little far-fetched, particularly on a high school level and for the power that Ryker had, but Ali Dean's writing and development of the characters, particularly with respect to Ryker, made it work and seem believable.
The romance scenes and the push and pull of the developing romantic relationship were terrific, and appropriate for a high school coming of age story.
I really enjoyed this book. It was so engaging that I stayed up all night finishing it. I just couldn't put it down. I'm really looking forward to the other books in this series!
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. *
I also love how Ali Dean explains sports, in this case, skiing, and the competitions and training associated with it. Her writing style is so engaging, and I felt as if I were training along with Roxie. The description of the competition at the end was so vivid that I reread it multiple times because I loved it that much. I felt as if I were right there with Roxie.
The situation at Stark Springs seemed a little far-fetched, particularly on a high school level and for the power that Ryker had, but Ali Dean's writing and development of the characters, particularly with respect to Ryker, made it work and seem believable.
The romance scenes and the push and pull of the developing romantic relationship were terrific, and appropriate for a high school coming of age story.
I really enjoyed this book. It was so engaging that I stayed up all night finishing it. I just couldn't put it down. I'm really looking forward to the other books in this series!
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. *
January 11, 2016
Another amazing book from Ali Dean... I was received a copy of this book to read and review it. I highly suggest you guys to read it if you are into kick-ass heroines who do sports with a hear-warming romance plot.
So the story starts with Roxanne coming to a new school where only the best winter sports' athletes attend to. So she works her ass off to deserve her place there. She is strong, fierce and determined. At first I thought this book was going to be something similiar to Elite by Rachel Van Dyken. However, the more I read, the more I liked the book and saw main differences which made this book a 5-stars-book for me. Our hero, Ryker, is the head of this school but not in a popular-jock kind of thing, more like owning it. You may think that he is a jerk, at first, but I didn't. I was kinda felt his sweetness <3. This book is a 5-stars book for me because,
1. heroine was this strong, rebel, fierce, independent athlete. she doesn't take shit from others. and not one of those naive girls where she effects the hero with her innocence...
2. the book was written so nicely. none of those bullshit mistakes to make you pull ur hair.
3. there are a lot of other characters so you don't just read two main characters' dialogs.
4. you are given a lot of info about the sports, so you don't have to know much about winter sports to get it.
It was written from heroine' POV and I wouldn't say it was a cliffhanger but its definitely a new series. which I got the news that new book was going to be released on march!
So the story starts with Roxanne coming to a new school where only the best winter sports' athletes attend to. So she works her ass off to deserve her place there. She is strong, fierce and determined. At first I thought this book was going to be something similiar to Elite by Rachel Van Dyken. However, the more I read, the more I liked the book and saw main differences which made this book a 5-stars-book for me. Our hero, Ryker, is the head of this school but not in a popular-jock kind of thing, more like owning it. You may think that he is a jerk, at first, but I didn't. I was kinda felt his sweetness <3. This book is a 5-stars book for me because,
1. heroine was this strong, rebel, fierce, independent athlete. she doesn't take shit from others. and not one of those naive girls where she effects the hero with her innocence...
2. the book was written so nicely. none of those bullshit mistakes to make you pull ur hair.
3. there are a lot of other characters so you don't just read two main characters' dialogs.
4. you are given a lot of info about the sports, so you don't have to know much about winter sports to get it.
It was written from heroine' POV and I wouldn't say it was a cliffhanger but its definitely a new series. which I got the news that new book was going to be released on march!
September 25, 2016
*This book was received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
This book started off interesting but quickly became less and less enjoyable. First off, for most of the book the reader is oblivious as to why Ryker Black basically runs the whole place (Stark Springs) and this is supposed to be the main element of the plot according to the blurb. Instead most of the plot is taken up by the main character Roxie wondering what is going on and 'rebelling' against Ryker's reign. I also was annoyed with the ending as Roxie gets together with Ryker even though all throughout the book he treats her like shit. Overall, this was a disappointing read.
This book started off interesting but quickly became less and less enjoyable. First off, for most of the book the reader is oblivious as to why Ryker Black basically runs the whole place (Stark Springs) and this is supposed to be the main element of the plot according to the blurb. Instead most of the plot is taken up by the main character Roxie wondering what is going on and 'rebelling' against Ryker's reign. I also was annoyed with the ending as Roxie gets together with Ryker even though all throughout the book he treats her like shit. Overall, this was a disappointing read.
May 22, 2016
Elite school of talented spoiled kids? Count me in.
I love character development but this book didn't have any.
I almost stopped reading halfway through, I didn't see any resolution occurring between characters.
The hero is perfect and rich. He is a complete jerk that orders everyone around. I didn't buy his back story either. It was very unrealistic.
The heroine was a mary sue.
Overall I would pass this one. There are a lot of young adult options out there with real character development.
I love character development but this book didn't have any.
I almost stopped reading halfway through, I didn't see any resolution occurring between characters.
The hero is perfect and rich. He is a complete jerk that orders everyone around. I didn't buy his back story either. It was very unrealistic.
The heroine was a mary sue.
Overall I would pass this one. There are a lot of young adult options out there with real character development.
August 8, 2020
This is the first book from the Stark Spring Academy series that starts the story of Roxie and Ryker.
Roxie received a scholarship to the Stark Spring Academy, a boarding school that only the best athletes attend to.
But this world wasn't the one that she expected. Starting with Ryker Stark. He's a student there, but he also owns the school. And she was warned to not go again him.
This book was amazing. Roxie was an incredible character. And Ryker was such an mysterious guy. This book captivated my attention and I couldn't put it down. It was really addictive.
Roxie received a scholarship to the Stark Spring Academy, a boarding school that only the best athletes attend to.
But this world wasn't the one that she expected. Starting with Ryker Stark. He's a student there, but he also owns the school. And she was warned to not go again him.
This book was amazing. Roxie was an incredible character. And Ryker was such an mysterious guy. This book captivated my attention and I couldn't put it down. It was really addictive.
May 18, 2016
3.5 Stars
I do love a broody and moody hero. My issue was that I did not believe that Ryker Black just changed his feelings about dating, etc. I am not a fan of dual POV, but I think one chapter in the middle with Ryker's POV would have been good in this book. I did not feel his sudden change of heart. Also, I did not understand why Ryker wanted Roxie except that she did not want to follow the rules.
I do love a broody and moody hero. My issue was that I did not believe that Ryker Black just changed his feelings about dating, etc. I am not a fan of dual POV, but I think one chapter in the middle with Ryker's POV would have been good in this book. I did not feel his sudden change of heart. Also, I did not understand why Ryker wanted Roxie except that she did not want to follow the rules.
February 9, 2017
Black Diamond, Stark Springs Academy Book 1, is one of those books I just stumbled upon and got caught up in immediately. It does have a lot of angst and drama. However, I feel in love with the main character Roxie Slade and her take no prisoners attitude. I loved that she doesn't back down and shows that young women can stand up for themselves. Looking forward to the next to books in the series.
4 Stars!!!
4 Stars!!!
January 10, 2016
I was given an ARC of this book, and am happy to say that This was a great book. I would put this in the like of Tijan's A Whole New Crowd and Van Dyken's Elite. I loved Roxie and her ways. Such a strong young lady trying to make her way among the cream of the crop and not understanding the rules of their way. Stayed interesting the entire time.
September 5, 2016
Oh how I love teenaged drama. Ryker Black is something else. He certainly was an an asshole with a God complex. I liked how Roxie called him on most of his BS. This story felt like an introductory of sorts with a lot more to be uncovered.
December 6, 2023
Not gonna lie I really enjoyed this book . It was a quick read and had me hooked since the first page. Really liked the plot especially at this time of the year.
Now I can’t wait to go skiing again :)
Now I can’t wait to go skiing again :)
March 14, 2019
I received an ARC of this book. When Roxie received a scholarship to the prestigious Sparks Springs Academy she doesn't realized what she is getting herself into. Roxy questions why she is there, especially since she entered so late, during Junior year. Roxie isn't expecting that Mr. Black, aka Ryker Black is feared by all and running the school. Roxie soon realizes Ryker not only runs the school, but he is also a student there. Her roommate compares him to "Winter Mafia" and warns her not to go against him. However Roxie knows there is more to Ryker and she isn't about to let anyone walk all over her. Roxie is committed to be the best she can be and isn't about to let some bullies dictate her life. Roxie is a strong, motivated, caring, sweet and fair athlete who is willing to stand up for what she believes, even against the so called "Posse" and she isn't afraid to show it. She knows there is more to Ryker than what he is willing to show and she is determined to find out. When Ryker invites Roxie to his Posse table she turns him down. As Roxie gets to know Ryker she questions his hot and cold and confronts him, however Ryker isn't about to commit to Roxie I loved the chemistry between Roxie and Ryker. I also loved how explicit and well written the sports part of the story is. We are taken on this winter sports journey and captivated by this young love. There is so much going on in the story and Roxy is pulled in so many different directions that I sometimes wonder how she can keep her sanity. She not only has to keep her wits, defend herself against the 'mean rich girls' who are part of the posse and stay focused on her goal, but she has to figure out why Ryker is so hot and cold with her. I really loved the book and how it captivated my attention. I couldn't put the book down, it does end in a cliffy. I definitely recommend this book for those who love sports romance. It's a great read!
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