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Snow & Ice Games #1
Love on the Tracks
Welcome to the Snow and Ice Games where the competition is fierce and the romance is HOT.
Rowan Andrews is the unexpected darling of the Denver Snow and Ice Games. Luge has never captured the American public’s imagination as much as figure skating or even hockey, but her outsized personality and dare-devil ways have got everyone’s eyes glued to the track. Including a certain chart-topping heartthrob.
Zane Rivera is the lead singer of License to Game, the hottest band in the country. When Zane finds out Rowan Andrews has had some complimentary things to say about him, he arranges to meet her while he’s in Denver enjoying the games. And when a photo of him kissing Rowan on the cheek goes viral, they both see the advantages of faking a relationship for the publicity.
After Rowan’s injured in her final race, their relationship starts to feel all too real to Zane. But is this rock star ready to fall in love?
Rowan Andrews is the unexpected darling of the Denver Snow and Ice Games. Luge has never captured the American public’s imagination as much as figure skating or even hockey, but her outsized personality and dare-devil ways have got everyone’s eyes glued to the track. Including a certain chart-topping heartthrob.
Zane Rivera is the lead singer of License to Game, the hottest band in the country. When Zane finds out Rowan Andrews has had some complimentary things to say about him, he arranges to meet her while he’s in Denver enjoying the games. And when a photo of him kissing Rowan on the cheek goes viral, they both see the advantages of faking a relationship for the publicity.
After Rowan’s injured in her final race, their relationship starts to feel all too real to Zane. But is this rock star ready to fall in love?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2017
8 people are currently reading
451 people want to read
About the author
Tamsen Parker
43 books389 followersTamsen Parker is a stay-at-home mom by day, erotic romance writer by naptime. She lives with her family outside of Boston, where she tweets too much, sleeps too little and is always in the middle of a book. Aside from good food, sweet rieslings and gin cocktails, she has a fondness for monograms and subway maps. She should really start drinking coffee.
You can sign up for her newsletter here to find out about her latest release, sales, or other goings on: http://bit.ly/1Bry07O
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 4, 2017
Love on the Tracks is another top tier romance by Tamsen Parker that should not be missed!
Side Note: I am thoroughly disappointed in myself that it took me SOOOO long to get to this book - but hey, that's college life. But this was the most excellent treat after two weeks of heavy testing!!!
I'd hate to say it, but I love this book WAY more than The Compass series (and I was overly obsessed with that book). I didn't think Tamsen could make me love a book or series more than her original, but she did!
This novel is a contemporary romance that follows a female sports star and a male pop star - something that makes so much sense, but I haven't seen much in the books I've read. Our leads, Rowan and Zane, are a perfect duo that I definitely want to see more of in the future. Our setting, The Snow and Ice Games, introduces us to a unique setting - competition, sports stadiums, Olympic tones, etc. Our antagonists are not bad guys, and are merely trying to do their best under what they think is the right thing. Every inch of this story feels more realistic than most romances I've torn through in the past few years.
Positives:
1. Luge/Sports - I really liked the introduction of a sport that most people don't really think about on a day to day basis.
2. Strong Female Lead - Yes, India was an excellent character written by Tamsen but she had her faults (which is what made her so good, FYI) but Rowan is stronger, knows what she wants and has her head on straight (for now, anyways).
3. Lighthearted, Engaging Story - I enjoy a sweet novel that doesn't make you cringe at every turn. This book is so sweet, so simple, and an overall lovely story to make you feel good.
4. Respect - Also, if you haven't noticed many novels don't have the level of respect between the two leads like this book does. A+ for effort Tamsen!!
Negatives:
1. Speed - I found some portions of this book was a little fast (no spoilers), but there are more books in the series to explore different issues among characters, competitions, etc.
Overall, this book is a fantastic, romance read for all you romance enthusiasts! This book does not disappoint!!!
Five out of five stars!
I received a copy of this story through NetGalley for an honest review.
Side Note: I am thoroughly disappointed in myself that it took me SOOOO long to get to this book - but hey, that's college life. But this was the most excellent treat after two weeks of heavy testing!!!
I'd hate to say it, but I love this book WAY more than The Compass series (and I was overly obsessed with that book). I didn't think Tamsen could make me love a book or series more than her original, but she did!
This novel is a contemporary romance that follows a female sports star and a male pop star - something that makes so much sense, but I haven't seen much in the books I've read. Our leads, Rowan and Zane, are a perfect duo that I definitely want to see more of in the future. Our setting, The Snow and Ice Games, introduces us to a unique setting - competition, sports stadiums, Olympic tones, etc. Our antagonists are not bad guys, and are merely trying to do their best under what they think is the right thing. Every inch of this story feels more realistic than most romances I've torn through in the past few years.
Positives:
1. Luge/Sports - I really liked the introduction of a sport that most people don't really think about on a day to day basis.
2. Strong Female Lead - Yes, India was an excellent character written by Tamsen but she had her faults (which is what made her so good, FYI) but Rowan is stronger, knows what she wants and has her head on straight (for now, anyways).
3. Lighthearted, Engaging Story - I enjoy a sweet novel that doesn't make you cringe at every turn. This book is so sweet, so simple, and an overall lovely story to make you feel good.
4. Respect - Also, if you haven't noticed many novels don't have the level of respect between the two leads like this book does. A+ for effort Tamsen!!
Negatives:
1. Speed - I found some portions of this book was a little fast (no spoilers), but there are more books in the series to explore different issues among characters, competitions, etc.
Overall, this book is a fantastic, romance read for all you romance enthusiasts! This book does not disappoint!!!
Five out of five stars!
I received a copy of this story through NetGalley for an honest review.
December 11, 2017
When things become suddenly very real…
What do you get when you mix a rock star and an elite athlete into a fake relationship? If you guessed sexual heat (at the minimum) and wild, satisfying mattress mambo (at the other end) then you are correct!
Rowan’s fan crush for Zane and his boy band goes way back. Whether trying to zen while competing or enjoying down time, she plugs into his music and gets swept away. When Zane is suddenly not just a distant figure but a living, breathing, sexy, hot MAN on her phone and in her dating calendar, she can hardly believe it…
Zane is looking for a quiet place to hide from everyone and a casual glance at a feature about the Snow & Ice Games has him heading to the mountains and checking out a luger who has caught his eye….
These characters were fun to get to know as their physical attraction, and forced togetherness, meant I learnt about them as they were doing the same. They had some obvious goals but they also had more hidden (and frustrated) dreams. There was unexpected shyness and an understanding and empathy that surprised them both. Given their situation there had to be some real drama to add to the already reality-esque of their situation and there is, courtesy of interfering family and record companies.
I liked these characters who were more than caricature figures in the tabloids even as I found the story not zinging my heart like I wanted it to. It should have – all the elements were there – but the connection fell just a bit short. I LIKED this story and as the first in the series I know there is more to come – and hopefully LOVE! ~Diane, 3.5 stars
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
What do you get when you mix a rock star and an elite athlete into a fake relationship? If you guessed sexual heat (at the minimum) and wild, satisfying mattress mambo (at the other end) then you are correct!
Rowan’s fan crush for Zane and his boy band goes way back. Whether trying to zen while competing or enjoying down time, she plugs into his music and gets swept away. When Zane is suddenly not just a distant figure but a living, breathing, sexy, hot MAN on her phone and in her dating calendar, she can hardly believe it…
Zane is looking for a quiet place to hide from everyone and a casual glance at a feature about the Snow & Ice Games has him heading to the mountains and checking out a luger who has caught his eye….
These characters were fun to get to know as their physical attraction, and forced togetherness, meant I learnt about them as they were doing the same. They had some obvious goals but they also had more hidden (and frustrated) dreams. There was unexpected shyness and an understanding and empathy that surprised them both. Given their situation there had to be some real drama to add to the already reality-esque of their situation and there is, courtesy of interfering family and record companies.
I liked these characters who were more than caricature figures in the tabloids even as I found the story not zinging my heart like I wanted it to. It should have – all the elements were there – but the connection fell just a bit short. I LIKED this story and as the first in the series I know there is more to come – and hopefully LOVE! ~Diane, 3.5 stars
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher.
October 30, 2017
A copy was provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was exactly what I needed on a hard day: engaging, light, pretty well-paced romance with complex characterization. This is a musician/athlete meet cute romance with a fake relationship that of course turns real. I liked the way it played with these tropes, liked the chemistry between the main characters, and enjoyed their romance arc, and also each of their individual arcs. It was a fun light read.
I appreciated the way that Rowan was super serious about being an athlete, and Zane really deeply respected that and stood up for her as an athlete with the press. He got how much it meant to her, and how amazing she was, and I loved that about him. I loved how Rowan got all fangirly over Zane, and then grew to see him as a person, that shift was lovely to witness, and I especially liked the moments when she supports him in writing new material.
They have incredible heat and sweetness between them, and I really enjoyed watching that build. There is a definite thread of a D/s dynamic, that they both were very enthusiastic about, where Rowan is dominant. I loved that aspect of the story so much! They don't explicitly negotiate it using those words, but consent is clear. I especially appreciated how much Rowan's dominance was a part of Zane's solo sex scene mid-book. It was very hot, and I also just appreciated how much he was into submitting to her. I love the way he worshipped her throughout the story, both in their D/s and sex and also just as a brilliant athlete. I really appreciated how blunt and straightforward Rowan was about her desire, it was such a lovely contrast to the ways she was shy with him.
Rowan gets injured, and that aspect of the story felt a bit thinly drawn. The resolution with her father felt a bit rushed and like it resolved too easily. I found her dad pretty controlling, and wasn't feeling very kindly to him. I enjoyed Zane's arc around his career, though it was a bit rushed at the end.
I generally enjoy Tamsen Parker's romances and this one did not disappoint. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Trigger Warnings:
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was exactly what I needed on a hard day: engaging, light, pretty well-paced romance with complex characterization. This is a musician/athlete meet cute romance with a fake relationship that of course turns real. I liked the way it played with these tropes, liked the chemistry between the main characters, and enjoyed their romance arc, and also each of their individual arcs. It was a fun light read.
I appreciated the way that Rowan was super serious about being an athlete, and Zane really deeply respected that and stood up for her as an athlete with the press. He got how much it meant to her, and how amazing she was, and I loved that about him. I loved how Rowan got all fangirly over Zane, and then grew to see him as a person, that shift was lovely to witness, and I especially liked the moments when she supports him in writing new material.
They have incredible heat and sweetness between them, and I really enjoyed watching that build. There is a definite thread of a D/s dynamic, that they both were very enthusiastic about, where Rowan is dominant. I loved that aspect of the story so much! They don't explicitly negotiate it using those words, but consent is clear. I especially appreciated how much Rowan's dominance was a part of Zane's solo sex scene mid-book. It was very hot, and I also just appreciated how much he was into submitting to her. I love the way he worshipped her throughout the story, both in their D/s and sex and also just as a brilliant athlete. I really appreciated how blunt and straightforward Rowan was about her desire, it was such a lovely contrast to the ways she was shy with him.
Rowan gets injured, and that aspect of the story felt a bit thinly drawn. The resolution with her father felt a bit rushed and like it resolved too easily. I found her dad pretty controlling, and wasn't feeling very kindly to him. I enjoyed Zane's arc around his career, though it was a bit rushed at the end.
I generally enjoy Tamsen Parker's romances and this one did not disappoint. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Trigger Warnings:
February 27, 2018
Eh, the conflict killed it for me.
Otherwise, fun! I'm probably always going to wish books didn't make up their version of things--you are talking about the Olympics!! Just call it the Olympics!!!--but it made me feel the atmosphere and the fun. And overall, I liked the vibe of their fake relationship. (More books about faking it for the media!!) And the fact that Zane like his high stress, high pressure job.
I want to read the rest of the series, but I think only if my library gets them for me.
Otherwise, fun! I'm probably always going to wish books didn't make up their version of things--you are talking about the Olympics!! Just call it the Olympics!!!--but it made me feel the atmosphere and the fun. And overall, I liked the vibe of their fake relationship. (More books about faking it for the media!!) And the fact that Zane like his high stress, high pressure job.
I want to read the rest of the series, but I think only if my library gets them for me.
March 17, 2018
Love on the Tracks' heroine, Rowan is a luger with a massive crush on heartthrob Zane Rivera. I liked this story quite a bit even though I'm not entirely into books with rockstars. There's the fake-relationship trope here and it was well-written. Both characters are quite likable too. I liked all the insides of luge, which isn't a sport that I've thought too much about, so that was interesting. Who I didn't like in this book was Rowan's dad. He does some shitty things and ugh, I was ready to punch the guy! I will say that the romance between Rowan and Zane developed quite fast here, but I expected that with the short length of this book.
December 4, 2017
As a fan of the winter Olympics, the idea of the Snow and Ice Games series is one that definitely appeals to me and I'm happy to say that this first in the series, Love on the Tracks, is a definite winner!
Rowan Andrews is a twenty year old luger, with her heart set on getting a medal at this year's Snow and Ice Games (the SIGs). Her training inspiration is the music of Licence to Game, and she's the first to admit she has a crush on lead singer Zane Rivera. When she gets to meet him face to face, she is thrilled, and since it happens on morning TV, the positive publicity leads Zane's agent and Rowan's dad to come up with a plan to benefit them both – a 'dating' relationship to raise Zane's band's profile on social media and give Rowan some new sponsorship possibilities. Fake dating soon leads to real intimacy. But will the distraction cost Rowan a chance a medal?
I really enjoyed this story! I loved the emphasis on the sport of luge (which I actually watch on TV) and the technical details that were interesting but not overwhelming. It's a very sex positive story, with consent coming from both sides and Rowan, while somewhat shy in public, definitely not being shy in private. She's always used the competitions as a chance to hookup and let off a little steam, but with Zane, the steam gets pretty intense!
Zane is a very likable man, kind and generous. His goal is to eventually go solo, but for now he's got a good relationship with his band even as he spends time writing songs for himself. There are some lovely scenes where Rowan becomes instrumental to his music and it soon becomes clear to them both that their fake relationship could turn into a real one. Along with the romance we get some action packed competition scenes as Rowan goes for the gold. I won't give away the ending, except to say that Rowan and Zane do eventually get their happy ending (but not without some ups and downs) and I am excited to read the next in the series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Rowan Andrews is a twenty year old luger, with her heart set on getting a medal at this year's Snow and Ice Games (the SIGs). Her training inspiration is the music of Licence to Game, and she's the first to admit she has a crush on lead singer Zane Rivera. When she gets to meet him face to face, she is thrilled, and since it happens on morning TV, the positive publicity leads Zane's agent and Rowan's dad to come up with a plan to benefit them both – a 'dating' relationship to raise Zane's band's profile on social media and give Rowan some new sponsorship possibilities. Fake dating soon leads to real intimacy. But will the distraction cost Rowan a chance a medal?
I really enjoyed this story! I loved the emphasis on the sport of luge (which I actually watch on TV) and the technical details that were interesting but not overwhelming. It's a very sex positive story, with consent coming from both sides and Rowan, while somewhat shy in public, definitely not being shy in private. She's always used the competitions as a chance to hookup and let off a little steam, but with Zane, the steam gets pretty intense!
Zane is a very likable man, kind and generous. His goal is to eventually go solo, but for now he's got a good relationship with his band even as he spends time writing songs for himself. There are some lovely scenes where Rowan becomes instrumental to his music and it soon becomes clear to them both that their fake relationship could turn into a real one. Along with the romance we get some action packed competition scenes as Rowan goes for the gold. I won't give away the ending, except to say that Rowan and Zane do eventually get their happy ending (but not without some ups and downs) and I am excited to read the next in the series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
December 5, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
The Snow and Ice Games series is a new collection from Tamsen Parker about world class athletes at the winter games. The series will include five books that will release December-March to coincide with the Winter Olympics. The series will also be made up of mixed pairings and while this first book is M/F, there will also be an M/M book, as well as an F/F story to complete the series.
The book is told in alternating first person point of view, which helps round out the story. Rowan has been training for the luge for many years. Her father is her manager and their relationship is close, if not a little controlling on her father’s part, but he mostly means well. There aren’t many, if any, books with luge as the focus and it was interesting to have a strong female lead in a sport that isn’t as widely read about. Rowan is a young 20-year old and for my tastes, she was a little too young for me, but she had a fun and cute personality when faced with Zane. But while I might not have been the direct target audience for Rowan based solely on personal preferences, it was refreshing to see a female character go after what she wants.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
The Snow and Ice Games series is a new collection from Tamsen Parker about world class athletes at the winter games. The series will include five books that will release December-March to coincide with the Winter Olympics. The series will also be made up of mixed pairings and while this first book is M/F, there will also be an M/M book, as well as an F/F story to complete the series.
The book is told in alternating first person point of view, which helps round out the story. Rowan has been training for the luge for many years. Her father is her manager and their relationship is close, if not a little controlling on her father’s part, but he mostly means well. There aren’t many, if any, books with luge as the focus and it was interesting to have a strong female lead in a sport that isn’t as widely read about. Rowan is a young 20-year old and for my tastes, she was a little too young for me, but she had a fun and cute personality when faced with Zane. But while I might not have been the direct target audience for Rowan based solely on personal preferences, it was refreshing to see a female character go after what she wants.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
November 18, 2017
This is such a fun, satisfying read!
Zane Rivera is a 26 year old pop sensation as one of the members of the greatest living boy band. But after 10 years with the band, Zane longs to strike out on his own as a solo artist. But he loves his bandmates and friends, and he's willing to sacrifice what he needs for the continued success of the band. Rowan Andrew is a 20 year old athlete heading into the Snow and Ice Games as a hopeful medalist in the luge. After becoming social media darlings after they meet, Zane and Rowan agree to a fake relationship. She's hoping to net more lucrative sponsorships, while he's hoping to drum up support for his band's upcoming album.
There's a lot this book does well: Zane and Rowan are both well-devloped and likable characters. They are each fiercely committed to doing their best. Their fake dating turns into real sex, and it's steamy and satisfying. As a reader, I loved that Rowan is a strong, kick-ass athlete. She is proud of herself and her body, and she is a competitor. Zane is wildly attracted to her, not just because she's a fangirl and a pretty blonde, but because she's so strong and capable.
However, as their romance heats up, she becomes concerned he'll distract her from her competition. He can't help but wondering if she's only using him to gain fame and fortune. The fake-dating trope works really well here, because it plays into both of their fears for how others perceive them.
Also, I LOVED how Tamsen Parker doesn't just use the Snow and Ice games as a cute setting. The fact that Rowan is an athlete is so central to the story. This is her moment, and the descriptions of her as she slides down the track in her first race are awesome. In fact, it might be one of the most convincing "in the mind of the athlete" moments I've read in a novel. This isn't just a plot device---this is central to Rowan's character. At the top of the chute, she thinks, "The beat of my heart is as loud in my ears as the cheers of the crowd, but it's okay. War drums. A steady thump that will keep me grounded." Later on that same run, she describes the feeling of sliding down the hill on her sled, "I'm picking up speed and everything goes silent. Not silent as other people understand it, because there's the grainy rumble of rough ice passing incredibly quickly under my lovingly sharpened steels, but it's what passes for silence in my world. It's me, my sled, and the track. Nothing else matters."
Because the book is dual first person narration, there were moments that I wished the other character was narrating, especially at the moment of crisis when Rowan asks for some space before her next competition. The POV sticks with Zane, and I really wanted to know what Rowan was thinking. Rowan's Dad felt a little too cartoonishly Dad-like, careening from meek and caring to overprotective and unreasonable. The way he disrupts their romance felt a little off, and kind of yucky. These are minor quibbles. This is fun read, but also a satisfying one.
Zane Rivera is a 26 year old pop sensation as one of the members of the greatest living boy band. But after 10 years with the band, Zane longs to strike out on his own as a solo artist. But he loves his bandmates and friends, and he's willing to sacrifice what he needs for the continued success of the band. Rowan Andrew is a 20 year old athlete heading into the Snow and Ice Games as a hopeful medalist in the luge. After becoming social media darlings after they meet, Zane and Rowan agree to a fake relationship. She's hoping to net more lucrative sponsorships, while he's hoping to drum up support for his band's upcoming album.
There's a lot this book does well: Zane and Rowan are both well-devloped and likable characters. They are each fiercely committed to doing their best. Their fake dating turns into real sex, and it's steamy and satisfying. As a reader, I loved that Rowan is a strong, kick-ass athlete. She is proud of herself and her body, and she is a competitor. Zane is wildly attracted to her, not just because she's a fangirl and a pretty blonde, but because she's so strong and capable.
However, as their romance heats up, she becomes concerned he'll distract her from her competition. He can't help but wondering if she's only using him to gain fame and fortune. The fake-dating trope works really well here, because it plays into both of their fears for how others perceive them.
Also, I LOVED how Tamsen Parker doesn't just use the Snow and Ice games as a cute setting. The fact that Rowan is an athlete is so central to the story. This is her moment, and the descriptions of her as she slides down the track in her first race are awesome. In fact, it might be one of the most convincing "in the mind of the athlete" moments I've read in a novel. This isn't just a plot device---this is central to Rowan's character. At the top of the chute, she thinks, "The beat of my heart is as loud in my ears as the cheers of the crowd, but it's okay. War drums. A steady thump that will keep me grounded." Later on that same run, she describes the feeling of sliding down the hill on her sled, "I'm picking up speed and everything goes silent. Not silent as other people understand it, because there's the grainy rumble of rough ice passing incredibly quickly under my lovingly sharpened steels, but it's what passes for silence in my world. It's me, my sled, and the track. Nothing else matters."
Because the book is dual first person narration, there were moments that I wished the other character was narrating, especially at the moment of crisis when Rowan asks for some space before her next competition. The POV sticks with Zane, and I really wanted to know what Rowan was thinking. Rowan's Dad felt a little too cartoonishly Dad-like, careening from meek and caring to overprotective and unreasonable. The way he disrupts their romance felt a little off, and kind of yucky. These are minor quibbles. This is fun read, but also a satisfying one.
July 22, 2018
Review also on my blog • Twitter • Bookstagram
I received an arc from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Love On the Tracks follows Rowan and Zane. Rowan is at the Denver Snow and Ice Games to compete in Lunge, which has captured the public's attention and has pushed her into the public eye. Zane is the lead singer of a band called Licence to Game, which has become the most popular band in America. Both know of the other and are attracted to each other, and when they meet this leads to chemistry between them. When they do meet, there's a moment where Zane kisses Rowan's cheek which get's caught on camera and goes viral. This leads to a plan where they will fake date to garner more attention for the other. As the two are already attracted to each other, they're both on board but it soon leads to something else.
If you know me at all, you know I don't ever read none diverse adult m/f romances (and m/f in general). This one however sounded interesting as did other books in the series so I decided to give it a shot, and I really enjoyed it. I really enjoyed both of the main characters. I loved how driven Rowan was. Zane was also a good character, he really respected and supported Rowan in her career. I also really liked how he was shown to be really attracted to Rowan's athletic body, which is something I haven't seen shown in m/f romance before. His type seemed to be athletic women which is kind of rare to see in media.
I did like their relationship a lot too. When they first had sex, there was a good degree of communication. I also like how two forms of birth control were used, that being the pill and a condom. Maybe it's because I rarely read adult m/f, but I haven't seen this before and I really loved seeing it.
I would say my only complaint about this book was that they said 'I love you' a little too quickly for my taste. I think they needed a little more time to say it but that's more of a me thing, they did have good chemistry. It was overall, a pretty good m/f romance.
I received an arc from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Love On the Tracks follows Rowan and Zane. Rowan is at the Denver Snow and Ice Games to compete in Lunge, which has captured the public's attention and has pushed her into the public eye. Zane is the lead singer of a band called Licence to Game, which has become the most popular band in America. Both know of the other and are attracted to each other, and when they meet this leads to chemistry between them. When they do meet, there's a moment where Zane kisses Rowan's cheek which get's caught on camera and goes viral. This leads to a plan where they will fake date to garner more attention for the other. As the two are already attracted to each other, they're both on board but it soon leads to something else.
If you know me at all, you know I don't ever read none diverse adult m/f romances (and m/f in general). This one however sounded interesting as did other books in the series so I decided to give it a shot, and I really enjoyed it. I really enjoyed both of the main characters. I loved how driven Rowan was. Zane was also a good character, he really respected and supported Rowan in her career. I also really liked how he was shown to be really attracted to Rowan's athletic body, which is something I haven't seen shown in m/f romance before. His type seemed to be athletic women which is kind of rare to see in media.
I did like their relationship a lot too. When they first had sex, there was a good degree of communication. I also like how two forms of birth control were used, that being the pill and a condom. Maybe it's because I rarely read adult m/f, but I haven't seen this before and I really loved seeing it.
I would say my only complaint about this book was that they said 'I love you' a little too quickly for my taste. I think they needed a little more time to say it but that's more of a me thing, they did have good chemistry. It was overall, a pretty good m/f romance.
December 4, 2017
http://celebrityreaders.com/2017/12/0...
I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
4.5 stars — Well this was a whole bowl full of awesome! It was kind of tailor made for me. I mean, I’m not sure how many people know this about me, but I am an Olympic FIEND. It’s my favourite sport (and I realize it’s not a sport, just like rainbow isn’t a colour, but I do what I want). So a sports book that meshes a fictional Olympic type competition (the Snow & Ice Games) with a celebrity romance, this time in the form of a famous pop star from a boy band? SIGN ME UP!!! And it was even cool that the athlete in this case was the heroine, AND she was a luger of all things! Have you watched luge? Those people are certifiable!!
I actually loved both characters. They occasionally felt a bit young, but that can make for a more realistic NA in my opinion. I know I still feel young and immature at 38. 😛 And given their professions as it were, it made sense that they would feel young in certain aspects.
I LOVED Rowan. She was nothing like I am. NOTHING. But I appreciated how unique she was, and how the author really showcased the dedication and hard work and sacrifices that is synonymous with amateur athletes. I LOVED how she was so blunt and forthright in what she wanted with sex…it was very sex positive in that way. I also appreciated that she didn’t go from fangirl to cool immediately, b/c it felt more realistic then. Sometimes I wanted her to more obviously see him as more than just a pop star…or rather, more quickly. But it was subtle, and it didn’t make the fangirl stuff immediately go away. It frustrated me, but again, felt more realistic.
And more than what I loved about her, I LOVED how Zane saw her, and how he appreciated the things about her that she’s often been told are lacking. Like her athletic body was seen as less feminine by some (stupid) men, her strength was intimidating to others, not to mention her dedication to her sport.
Which brings us to Zane. Zane was almost too good to be true. I’m not kidding. He’s this pop star, but he was so very down to earth, and just so freaking kind and thoughtful. He was like ultimate book boyfriend material for me. There was no bad boy to him. He felt very practical. I enjoyed seeing him struggle with being tired of the boy band, but still loyal to his boys. I liked reading about his exit strategy, and how he was thinking ahead to the future. And how he seemed truly torn up about wanting to move on. And I appreciated that he knew the importance of his fans and saw how they were truly responsible for all his success, so he wanted to appreciate them (even if it got exhausting). Occasionally the commentary about boy bands felt a bit…snarky, and was surprising. It almost felt as though the author looked down on boy bands and it bled through…but at other times it just felt normal. It was odd…and could all be in my head.
And as I said above, I LOVED how he appreciated Rowan. He was so turned on by her aggression. Made me feel very tummy tingly. So needless to say I LOVED the chemistry between them. It was so freaking hot. Like the steamy parts were awesome, and different. And I felt the romance too…I felt the development of their relationship into more. I felt their caring for each other.
I will admit the climax and conflict felt a bit tropey, but I appreciated that it didn’t last long and it wasn’t drawn out.
And if you couldn’t tell from the beginning of the review, I LOVED all the “SIG” (*cough* Olympics *cough*) descriptions, and seeing different sports showcased, and learning so much about luge (which has always scared the crap out of me). And I ADORED that they talked a bit about curling, though as a Canadian, I was a bit bummed that they didn’t mention us at all in relation to curling…it’s kind of our adopted sport. Like, we may not have invented it, but it’s basically ours…it’s more Canadian than even hockey in some ways. Woah, blew your mind right?
So yeah. This took two of my favourite tropes (sports romance and celebrity romance) and blended them seamlessly and made this reader one very happy girl. Obscure sports for the win!!
I received a free copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
4.5 stars — Well this was a whole bowl full of awesome! It was kind of tailor made for me. I mean, I’m not sure how many people know this about me, but I am an Olympic FIEND. It’s my favourite sport (and I realize it’s not a sport, just like rainbow isn’t a colour, but I do what I want). So a sports book that meshes a fictional Olympic type competition (the Snow & Ice Games) with a celebrity romance, this time in the form of a famous pop star from a boy band? SIGN ME UP!!! And it was even cool that the athlete in this case was the heroine, AND she was a luger of all things! Have you watched luge? Those people are certifiable!!
I actually loved both characters. They occasionally felt a bit young, but that can make for a more realistic NA in my opinion. I know I still feel young and immature at 38. 😛 And given their professions as it were, it made sense that they would feel young in certain aspects.
I LOVED Rowan. She was nothing like I am. NOTHING. But I appreciated how unique she was, and how the author really showcased the dedication and hard work and sacrifices that is synonymous with amateur athletes. I LOVED how she was so blunt and forthright in what she wanted with sex…it was very sex positive in that way. I also appreciated that she didn’t go from fangirl to cool immediately, b/c it felt more realistic then. Sometimes I wanted her to more obviously see him as more than just a pop star…or rather, more quickly. But it was subtle, and it didn’t make the fangirl stuff immediately go away. It frustrated me, but again, felt more realistic.
And more than what I loved about her, I LOVED how Zane saw her, and how he appreciated the things about her that she’s often been told are lacking. Like her athletic body was seen as less feminine by some (stupid) men, her strength was intimidating to others, not to mention her dedication to her sport.
Which brings us to Zane. Zane was almost too good to be true. I’m not kidding. He’s this pop star, but he was so very down to earth, and just so freaking kind and thoughtful. He was like ultimate book boyfriend material for me. There was no bad boy to him. He felt very practical. I enjoyed seeing him struggle with being tired of the boy band, but still loyal to his boys. I liked reading about his exit strategy, and how he was thinking ahead to the future. And how he seemed truly torn up about wanting to move on. And I appreciated that he knew the importance of his fans and saw how they were truly responsible for all his success, so he wanted to appreciate them (even if it got exhausting). Occasionally the commentary about boy bands felt a bit…snarky, and was surprising. It almost felt as though the author looked down on boy bands and it bled through…but at other times it just felt normal. It was odd…and could all be in my head.
And as I said above, I LOVED how he appreciated Rowan. He was so turned on by her aggression. Made me feel very tummy tingly. So needless to say I LOVED the chemistry between them. It was so freaking hot. Like the steamy parts were awesome, and different. And I felt the romance too…I felt the development of their relationship into more. I felt their caring for each other.
I will admit the climax and conflict felt a bit tropey, but I appreciated that it didn’t last long and it wasn’t drawn out.
And if you couldn’t tell from the beginning of the review, I LOVED all the “SIG” (*cough* Olympics *cough*) descriptions, and seeing different sports showcased, and learning so much about luge (which has always scared the crap out of me). And I ADORED that they talked a bit about curling, though as a Canadian, I was a bit bummed that they didn’t mention us at all in relation to curling…it’s kind of our adopted sport. Like, we may not have invented it, but it’s basically ours…it’s more Canadian than even hockey in some ways. Woah, blew your mind right?
So yeah. This took two of my favourite tropes (sports romance and celebrity romance) and blended them seamlessly and made this reader one very happy girl. Obscure sports for the win!!
October 9, 2024
I really wanted to like this one and I pushed through until the 45% mark, but I just couldn’t make it work so I heavily skimmed the rest of the book. Since this was a fake relationship between strangers things start out a bit slow as Rowan and Zane get to know each other. I liked that Zane didn’t want to push and he was always respectful. He also does a great job of making Rowan feel confident in her more athletic, muscular body because he’s genuinely attracted to athletes. I loved the concept of this book and went in with really high hopes. The fake relationship trope is a favorite of mine and I thought this one would be really interesting considering it’s two famous people – or moderately famous in Rowan’s case. There were elements of the writing that I struggled with and it’s hard to put my finger on it but it just never quite flowed right for me. I just couldn’t make a connection with the writing, the plot, or the characters.
But Rowan and Zane are likable characters in their own ways. Zane is a very mature “rock star”. Rowan is determined, focused, and single minded but being only 20 means she’s innocent in the way of normal life experiences.
Rowan’s age really showed in this one. I didn’t realize this was basically a New Adult romance as Rowan is only 20 and Zane is 25. There’s a lot of immaturity in Rowan but then she’s also weirdly mature about other things. I could never really pin down her personality; she was a bit all over the place. I won’t lie, Rowan’s crush on Zane and his band was a little much and verging on obsession. I totally get fan-girling when meeting your famous crush but there was something really juvenile about her love of LtG. She’s not just a fan with a crush — she reads the gossips magazines, knows all about Zane (or thinks she does), she’s a member of a bunch of fan forums, etc. That ended up making the more intimate scenes awkward because I felt like Rowan was unbearably young.
The scene where Rowan and her father are talking about her hooking up guys at the competition was so weird and uncomfortable for me as a reader. I’m sorry, I really don’t think an overly protective father is going to talk to his 20 year daughter that way about sex and casual hookups.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
But Rowan and Zane are likable characters in their own ways. Zane is a very mature “rock star”. Rowan is determined, focused, and single minded but being only 20 means she’s innocent in the way of normal life experiences.
Rowan’s age really showed in this one. I didn’t realize this was basically a New Adult romance as Rowan is only 20 and Zane is 25. There’s a lot of immaturity in Rowan but then she’s also weirdly mature about other things. I could never really pin down her personality; she was a bit all over the place. I won’t lie, Rowan’s crush on Zane and his band was a little much and verging on obsession. I totally get fan-girling when meeting your famous crush but there was something really juvenile about her love of LtG. She’s not just a fan with a crush — she reads the gossips magazines, knows all about Zane (or thinks she does), she’s a member of a bunch of fan forums, etc. That ended up making the more intimate scenes awkward because I felt like Rowan was unbearably young.
The scene where Rowan and her father are talking about her hooking up guys at the competition was so weird and uncomfortable for me as a reader. I’m sorry, I really don’t think an overly protective father is going to talk to his 20 year daughter that way about sex and casual hookups.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 4, 2017
I really wanted to enjoy this book but I just couldn't connect with the story or the characters for some reason. The Snow & Ice Games focus was interesting, especially when blending an athlete with a rock star and whilst on paper, this story should have been a hit with me, it just wasn't for some reason and I found myself skipping over large parts of the story, sadly.
This ebook was kindly provided by the author, publisher and Netgalley prior to release date in return for an honest and unbiased review.
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This ebook was kindly provided by the author, publisher and Netgalley prior to release date in return for an honest and unbiased review.
We are proud to provide honest and unbiased reviews written from the heart.
Email: jezabellgirlandfriends@gmail.com
Web: http://jezabellgirlandfriends.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/jezabellgirlandfr...
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February 25, 2018
I forgot to write a review right after I finished the book so I don’t exactly know what I wanted to write, but I generally enjoyed the book. It felt very fan fiction-y, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Plus, I liked how the MC was described as solidly built and almost as tall as the love interest.
January 21, 2018
3.5 stars... this was a cute and fun read... just in time for the Winter Olympics...
December 5, 2017
Je découvre la plume de l auteur et je trouve ça très intéressant de mélanger une romance sportive et un héros star de la chanson . C est la collision de deux univers mais au final avec les mêmes problématiques
Autre aspect original : l héroïne Rowan qui participe aux yeux olympiques dans la catégorie luge .
Chronique complète http://thelovelyteacheraddictions.blo...
Autre aspect original : l héroïne Rowan qui participe aux yeux olympiques dans la catégorie luge .
Chronique complète http://thelovelyteacheraddictions.blo...
December 5, 2017
Rowan Andrews is a professional athlete. She’s a Luger. She’s dedicated her whole life to this, ever since her mother died and she found comfort in channeling her energy into this sport.
Zane Rivera is a rock star, the most popular hunk in License to Game, a successful boy band, is Rowan’s ultimate fantasy. Zane also has a deep appreciation to athletes, and now that the band is right before a renewal of contract he’s in need of some down time. That’s when he finds out from an article, that he’s the rock idol of a certain SIG athlete, and decides Colorado is just the place he can relax and unwind.
From the very minute they meet as a surprise to Rowan on an interview talkshow, where she fangirl squees like there’s no tomorrow, it’s evident there’s something there, and that something is exploited in favor of them both.
I adored how secretive their real relationship hidden by fake outings in favor of some PR and sponsorships, evolves. I loved how they each discovered more about the other, and how it was all layered.
Both Zane and Rowan are vulnerable in ways athletes and rock stars never seem to be, or never thought to be. And that is a great addition to the emotional arc of the story.
I adored this romance and basically swallowed it whole in one sitting (interrupted by a necessary night’s sleep), and I genuinely can’t wait for the next release.
Love on the Tracks is a perfect sports meets music romance. Parker managed to incorporate this world into a we-only-wish-it-were-real love story, filled with romantic moments, sweet gestures, hot sex, one really not shy athlete and one heck of a surprised yet willing rock star. It’s fun, got some drama and a lot of hopeful sweetness and I couldn’t recommend it more.
Zane Rivera is a rock star, the most popular hunk in License to Game, a successful boy band, is Rowan’s ultimate fantasy. Zane also has a deep appreciation to athletes, and now that the band is right before a renewal of contract he’s in need of some down time. That’s when he finds out from an article, that he’s the rock idol of a certain SIG athlete, and decides Colorado is just the place he can relax and unwind.
From the very minute they meet as a surprise to Rowan on an interview talkshow, where she fangirl squees like there’s no tomorrow, it’s evident there’s something there, and that something is exploited in favor of them both.
I adored how secretive their real relationship hidden by fake outings in favor of some PR and sponsorships, evolves. I loved how they each discovered more about the other, and how it was all layered.
Both Zane and Rowan are vulnerable in ways athletes and rock stars never seem to be, or never thought to be. And that is a great addition to the emotional arc of the story.
I adored this romance and basically swallowed it whole in one sitting (interrupted by a necessary night’s sleep), and I genuinely can’t wait for the next release.
Love on the Tracks is a perfect sports meets music romance. Parker managed to incorporate this world into a we-only-wish-it-were-real love story, filled with romantic moments, sweet gestures, hot sex, one really not shy athlete and one heck of a surprised yet willing rock star. It’s fun, got some drama and a lot of hopeful sweetness and I couldn’t recommend it more.
December 4, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley***
I really enjoy fake relationship stories, as I love the additional element of the couple being aware of one another, and knowing that it should be fake, but pursuing the relationship in public like it is real.
Zane felt real, although there were timeline issues with this as he talks about how he formed his band in his early teens, 10 years ago...but is 26. Since he seemed older than early 20s, I was able to mostly ignore this for what it was and enjoy his part of the story.
Rowan however, I thought the age didn't quite line up with the past she talks about, that she either needed to be older to fit in with the past or to have less of the "sexual experience during events" that seems to come up in the story more than once.
I also had an issue with the actions of one of the secondary characters and how quickly the situation was resolved.
I enjoyed the parts of the story that were Rowan and Zane centered, and I believed their interactions, which allowed the book to work for me overall. I liked this and I am interested in reading the next in the series.
I really enjoy fake relationship stories, as I love the additional element of the couple being aware of one another, and knowing that it should be fake, but pursuing the relationship in public like it is real.
Zane felt real, although there were timeline issues with this as he talks about how he formed his band in his early teens, 10 years ago...but is 26. Since he seemed older than early 20s, I was able to mostly ignore this for what it was and enjoy his part of the story.
Rowan however, I thought the age didn't quite line up with the past she talks about, that she either needed to be older to fit in with the past or to have less of the "sexual experience during events" that seems to come up in the story more than once.
I also had an issue with the actions of one of the secondary characters and how quickly the situation was resolved.
I enjoyed the parts of the story that were Rowan and Zane centered, and I believed their interactions, which allowed the book to work for me overall. I liked this and I am interested in reading the next in the series.
November 9, 2017
For Rowan Andrew, meeting her idol singer from her favourite boy band was a dream come true. Unfortunately, the media and public are loving her reaction to the encounter on live tv. This brings up the idea of fake dating for publicity.
For Zane Rivera, meeting an up and coming athlete who happens to be a fan was flattering. But their fake dating makes him see a different side of the fan and to the woman within. The fake relationships seems to take a backseat to their attaction to each other.
I was pleasantly surprised by how straightfoward the plot is, that the obstacle seemed minor. While the characters fall in love a little too fast (IMO) during the Games, the short plot makes the book a fun and quick read.
Plot: 3.5/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 4/5 (2 1st POV)
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
For Zane Rivera, meeting an up and coming athlete who happens to be a fan was flattering. But their fake dating makes him see a different side of the fan and to the woman within. The fake relationships seems to take a backseat to their attaction to each other.
I was pleasantly surprised by how straightfoward the plot is, that the obstacle seemed minor. While the characters fall in love a little too fast (IMO) during the Games, the short plot makes the book a fun and quick read.
Plot: 3.5/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 4/5 (2 1st POV)
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
December 27, 2017
Wow, okay... this was super cute and sweet. I really needed a book like this. Things are crazy before the holiday and this was the perfect little getaway for my brain. I loved Zane's sweet nature and his honesty, and really dug how agressive Rowan could be while still being a total fangirl.
It's a HFN ending that honeslty feels like there is no way they're going to be able to keep this up, but the fact that they're young and willing to try is simply adorable and endearing.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
It's a HFN ending that honeslty feels like there is no way they're going to be able to keep this up, but the fact that they're young and willing to try is simply adorable and endearing.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
April 30, 2018
Luge athlete and a boy band member, yes please! Rowan admitted in an interview that she has a crush on Zane of License to Game the lead singer. He has a thing for athletes and decides to surprise her at the Snow and Ice Games. What starts out as a fake relationship to get sponsors for her and exposure for his next album turns into something more.
I love that the back drop is the O games (we can't say the real world as it is traded market). What do boy bands do when they are growing up.
I love that the back drop is the O games (we can't say the real world as it is traded market). What do boy bands do when they are growing up.
October 26, 2017
Zane is am equal opportunity man, “hey, I’m all for no clothes. But if I have to play naked, you have to listen naked.” Rowan's mind entertaining, "there. I have fulfilled my obligation as a responsible, sexually active adult. Therefore, I will not feel bad about riding Zane Rivera like I’m at a rodeo." I liked this book, Zane and rowan were a match made in Heaven.
December 4, 2017
3.5 stars
February 20, 2018
Really fun. I loved that Zane is alpha on the outside, but in the bedroom wants to worship Rowan and be commanded to please her. Can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
Bought from kobo
Bought from kobo
March 15, 2019
A fun bon bon of a feminist romance with consent all over the place, hot sex and genuine feelings.
April 14, 2021
High heat, excellent read. Not as good as Fire on the Ice, which is my benchmark book for this series.
I read it in one sitting which is always a compliment.
I read it in one sitting which is always a compliment.
March 28, 2024
Love on the Tracks by Tamsen Parker is a good fit for those seeking an emotional and fast-paced romance that explores the highs and lows of a fictional snow and ice games athlete's journey, complete with a chart-topping heartthrob love interest and the glamour of the sports world.
December 6, 2017
At only 20 years old, Rowan Andrews is competing in her second Snow and Ice Games (SIGs). She has dedicated her whole life to training for the sport she loves: luge. Entering the games as a medal contender for the United States, nothing can throw Rowan off her game. That is until she meets her celebrity crush, singer Zane Rivera.
Zane Rivera, lead singer for an insanely popular boy band, needs a break from his bandmates and the craziness of his life, so when the opportunity arises to surprise his fan, and SIG superstar, Rowan, he takes an impromptu trip to Denver. Once America gets a taste of Rowan and Zane together, they want more, and the pair fake a few dates, hoping to increase their social media coverage. However, the fake dates are starting to feel like the real deal.
Overall, I enjoyed Love on the Tracks, and found it to be a solid, entertaining start to this new series. I enjoyed the descriptions and feel of the games and what it means to be a professional/serious athlete. The author does a fabulous job putting me inside the heart and mind of Rowan, learning the ups and downs of such an intense lifestyle.
With that said, Rowan was difficult for me to connect with. I like that her sport comes first and that she goes after what she wants without (much) hesitation. She’s strong and unusually mature beyond her 20 years. Yet, I did struggle a bit with her age and maturity level at the start of the book. I suppose because it’s been way too long since I’ve been that age, it was difficult for me to relate to her. But she stays true to her heart and dreams, which I really liked.
Zane is a sweet and caring guy; not the typical Justin Bieber asshole popstar. He’s also pretty young, but at 26, and after a decade of touring, he feels like an old soul. He’s perfect for Rowan because he cares and won’t let his agent dictate all of his moves. He’s loyal to his bandmates, friends, and family, so it’s no surprise that he treats Rowan with utter respect. At first it was hard for me to get into their relationship - they felt so young, especially her, but after I got into the story, that all went away. And I really like how he doesn’t mope when things appear not to be going right… he takes matters into his own hands.
The story itself is short and straightforward. When issues come about, problem-solving is streamlined and everything wraps up nicely. I would have preferred no “I love you’s,” but it’s the way it goes. The story still has an HFN vibe, which is right for the romance and characters.
After reading Love on the Tracks, I am excited to find out more about some of the other athletes and discover what else happens at the Snow and Ice Games. With the lighter romance and shorter length, the book was a breeze to read, and it’s got me excited for the Winter Olympics coming this February in South Korea.
My Rating: B/B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by publisher/Netgalley
Zane Rivera, lead singer for an insanely popular boy band, needs a break from his bandmates and the craziness of his life, so when the opportunity arises to surprise his fan, and SIG superstar, Rowan, he takes an impromptu trip to Denver. Once America gets a taste of Rowan and Zane together, they want more, and the pair fake a few dates, hoping to increase their social media coverage. However, the fake dates are starting to feel like the real deal.
Overall, I enjoyed Love on the Tracks, and found it to be a solid, entertaining start to this new series. I enjoyed the descriptions and feel of the games and what it means to be a professional/serious athlete. The author does a fabulous job putting me inside the heart and mind of Rowan, learning the ups and downs of such an intense lifestyle.
With that said, Rowan was difficult for me to connect with. I like that her sport comes first and that she goes after what she wants without (much) hesitation. She’s strong and unusually mature beyond her 20 years. Yet, I did struggle a bit with her age and maturity level at the start of the book. I suppose because it’s been way too long since I’ve been that age, it was difficult for me to relate to her. But she stays true to her heart and dreams, which I really liked.
Zane is a sweet and caring guy; not the typical Justin Bieber asshole popstar. He’s also pretty young, but at 26, and after a decade of touring, he feels like an old soul. He’s perfect for Rowan because he cares and won’t let his agent dictate all of his moves. He’s loyal to his bandmates, friends, and family, so it’s no surprise that he treats Rowan with utter respect. At first it was hard for me to get into their relationship - they felt so young, especially her, but after I got into the story, that all went away. And I really like how he doesn’t mope when things appear not to be going right… he takes matters into his own hands.
The story itself is short and straightforward. When issues come about, problem-solving is streamlined and everything wraps up nicely. I would have preferred no “I love you’s,” but it’s the way it goes. The story still has an HFN vibe, which is right for the romance and characters.
After reading Love on the Tracks, I am excited to find out more about some of the other athletes and discover what else happens at the Snow and Ice Games. With the lighter romance and shorter length, the book was a breeze to read, and it’s got me excited for the Winter Olympics coming this February in South Korea.
My Rating: B/B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by publisher/Netgalley
December 6, 2017
I very, very rarely read contemporary romance, even though one might argue that I write it. Confusing, I know. And I'm even less likely to pick up a book featuring (GASP) younger characters because now that I'm 40 I'm out of bothers and I want these damn kids off my lawn. But I dig Tamsen Parker's politics, I've heard good things about her books, I have a couple of her (ahem) more intense novels on my Kindle, so why not jump into this Olympic-themed novella before the 2018 Winter Games?
So, first off I'll note that because I'm pretty much the human female version of Old Man Yells At Cloud, I'd consider this almost a new adult read (Rowan is 20, Zane is 26). Which gives Parker a ton of credit because while I rarely read contemporary, I run away from NA like that NOPE octopus gif. It's just not really my bag. But sports? Adorableness? Celeb on celeb crush? "Fake" dating arrangement? And it's all in novella form?
I'M
IN.
Rowan is expected/hoping to medal in luge at the Snow and Ice Games. She's got a huge crush on Zane Rivera, one of the singers for super hot boy band License to Game. He reads an article about her, notices that she mentions her megacrush, and decides he wants to make this shit happen. They meet, it's a great photo op for both of them, and they concoct a media-friendly "hey, let's date but not really because of course nothing could really come of it right" scheme.
Riiiiiiight.
Rowan and Zane are cute. Adorkable at times. Enough so that you forget that they're theoretically in high-pressure professions, have to be on all the time, and are relatively attractive to boot. And the sex is wonderfully and refreshingly real. I dig realistic sex with honest convos that I can see happening in real life. I don't need them hanging from the chandelier or fucking upside down or whatever. I want them talking about what they like and what they don't like, and I especially want a wee bit of that sweet sweet post-coital bliss.
If I had one complaint it's that I did feel that their luuuuuurve was a bit rushed. But it's a novella so obviously you gotta bring it all together quickly. And, having once been in my twenties, I do remember that overwhelming physical connection that manifests itself in deep emotional attachment quicker than you can imagine. Of course, I broke up with the guy like two months later but I am sure Rowan and Zane will totally not be like that. Because they're much better suited than I was with that guy, who hated The Sound of Music. Honestly, who hates The Sound of Music?
But I digress. This is a solid start to what appears to be a lighthearted, minimally angsty series. Get me passes to all the events because I want more.
Grade: B
So, first off I'll note that because I'm pretty much the human female version of Old Man Yells At Cloud, I'd consider this almost a new adult read (Rowan is 20, Zane is 26). Which gives Parker a ton of credit because while I rarely read contemporary, I run away from NA like that NOPE octopus gif. It's just not really my bag. But sports? Adorableness? Celeb on celeb crush? "Fake" dating arrangement? And it's all in novella form?
I'M
IN.
Rowan is expected/hoping to medal in luge at the Snow and Ice Games. She's got a huge crush on Zane Rivera, one of the singers for super hot boy band License to Game. He reads an article about her, notices that she mentions her megacrush, and decides he wants to make this shit happen. They meet, it's a great photo op for both of them, and they concoct a media-friendly "hey, let's date but not really because of course nothing could really come of it right" scheme.
Riiiiiiight.
Rowan and Zane are cute. Adorkable at times. Enough so that you forget that they're theoretically in high-pressure professions, have to be on all the time, and are relatively attractive to boot. And the sex is wonderfully and refreshingly real. I dig realistic sex with honest convos that I can see happening in real life. I don't need them hanging from the chandelier or fucking upside down or whatever. I want them talking about what they like and what they don't like, and I especially want a wee bit of that sweet sweet post-coital bliss.
If I had one complaint it's that I did feel that their luuuuuurve was a bit rushed. But it's a novella so obviously you gotta bring it all together quickly. And, having once been in my twenties, I do remember that overwhelming physical connection that manifests itself in deep emotional attachment quicker than you can imagine. Of course, I broke up with the guy like two months later but I am sure Rowan and Zane will totally not be like that. Because they're much better suited than I was with that guy, who hated The Sound of Music. Honestly, who hates The Sound of Music?
But I digress. This is a solid start to what appears to be a lighthearted, minimally angsty series. Get me passes to all the events because I want more.
Grade: B
November 20, 2017
I had high expectations going into this, especially since I'm a huge Winter Games junkie. While I give huge kudos to the author for creating a hardcore luger heroine, I was ultimately disappointed by the juvenile and lackluster romance between luge competitor Rowan and boy bander Zane.
Rowan is competing for Team USA at the Snow and Ice Games and her fangirling over Zane's boy band License to Game is legendary, to the point that it comes the attention of Zane himself. His manager suggests a fake romance to create more buzz for the band in exchange for more sponsorship opportunities for Rowan. I love a good fake romance, but Rowan's constant wide-eyed fangirling over Zane made their relationship that of a star and groupie, rather than equals.
I was thrown by the NA-ish quality of these kids pretending to be faux lovers (Rowan is 20 and Zane is 26), but that's on me: one of my favorite Tamsen Parker works is Craving Flight which is the love story of two Orthodox Jews in their late 30s, and I expected some of that same elegance and maturity. But the fact is that I found no spark between Rowan and Zane other than her awe of his boybandiness and his awe of her dedication to her sport; their outings felt like two junior high kids on dates supervised by their parents.
Then Rowan and Zane tumble into bed together and it becomes a different story. Shy, giggly Rowan is actually super confident in bed and for once, the guy has to keep up with the heroine. This was more fitting with Rowan's need for control and discipline in training, and I wish there was more exploration of Rowan's world than Zane's.
My real problem was that Rowan and Zane fell into bed almost as soon as they started their fake romance so there was really no time for real romance or feelings to grow. Yet, suddenly out of the blue, a weird subplot pops up involving a side character that turns Rowan and Zane into some kind of Romeo and Juliet-lite. The whiplash fast trip from fake romance to awkward plot separation to rapid fire declarations of ILYs was too much for me to take or believe.
The brief foray into Rowan's competitive world was fascinating and I wish there was more time and care spent on her life as a luger. Hopefully the next books in this series will feature more of the Games.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Rowan is competing for Team USA at the Snow and Ice Games and her fangirling over Zane's boy band License to Game is legendary, to the point that it comes the attention of Zane himself. His manager suggests a fake romance to create more buzz for the band in exchange for more sponsorship opportunities for Rowan. I love a good fake romance, but Rowan's constant wide-eyed fangirling over Zane made their relationship that of a star and groupie, rather than equals.
I was thrown by the NA-ish quality of these kids pretending to be faux lovers (Rowan is 20 and Zane is 26), but that's on me: one of my favorite Tamsen Parker works is Craving Flight which is the love story of two Orthodox Jews in their late 30s, and I expected some of that same elegance and maturity. But the fact is that I found no spark between Rowan and Zane other than her awe of his boybandiness and his awe of her dedication to her sport; their outings felt like two junior high kids on dates supervised by their parents.
Then Rowan and Zane tumble into bed together and it becomes a different story. Shy, giggly Rowan is actually super confident in bed and for once, the guy has to keep up with the heroine. This was more fitting with Rowan's need for control and discipline in training, and I wish there was more exploration of Rowan's world than Zane's.
My real problem was that Rowan and Zane fell into bed almost as soon as they started their fake romance so there was really no time for real romance or feelings to grow. Yet, suddenly out of the blue, a weird subplot pops up involving a side character that turns Rowan and Zane into some kind of Romeo and Juliet-lite. The whiplash fast trip from fake romance to awkward plot separation to rapid fire declarations of ILYs was too much for me to take or believe.
The brief foray into Rowan's competitive world was fascinating and I wish there was more time and care spent on her life as a luger. Hopefully the next books in this series will feature more of the Games.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
December 9, 2017
I'm a huge fan of obscure winter sports, and it is a winter Olympic year, so when I saw that the heroine of this book was a top-rated luger, I knew I had to give it a try. As if that wasn't enough, add in the fact that the hero was a rock-star and this book was all kinds of catnip for me. I'm happy to report that the book lived up to all of my expectations. I wasn't sure what to expect but this turned out to be a wonderful, sex-positive romance between two really nice characters who are both at the pinnacle of their respective professions. Rowan is a 20 YO who has been training on the luge for years, hoping to medal at the world championships. She's totally devoted to her sport with adult level maturity and razor focus, while at the same time, she's still barely out of her teens and shows it in her fangirl devotion to a popular boy band. Zane, one of the band members, is 25 and is ready to move on to a solo career but is still tied tightly to the band by his label. He totally admires all of the athletes competing in the winter games, so when he reads a profile of Rowan that mentions how much she loves his band, he decides to surprise her on a talk show she's doing. When their appearance together starts trending, they both agree to a "fake" romance for the sake of publicity. Since they are both attracted to each other, the fake romance turns real pretty quickly.
What I loved about this book was the respect that Rowan and Zane showed toward each other and to their respective professional responsibilities. Rowan got a bit fangirly sometimes, but overall, their relationship was depicted as one of equals and of mutual admiration. I also loved that Rowan was a strong, solid, athletic woman and that Zane found her to be wildly attractive and really liked when she was assertive in bed. I would characterize this as more of an NA romance rather than adult contemporary. The angst level was pretty low and there wasn't a lot of conflict, although what there was of it at the end did seem to be a bit contrived. Overall, I came away from the book with a happy sigh and a big smile. I've never read anything else by this author, but I will definitely be picking up some of the other books in this series.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
What I loved about this book was the respect that Rowan and Zane showed toward each other and to their respective professional responsibilities. Rowan got a bit fangirly sometimes, but overall, their relationship was depicted as one of equals and of mutual admiration. I also loved that Rowan was a strong, solid, athletic woman and that Zane found her to be wildly attractive and really liked when she was assertive in bed. I would characterize this as more of an NA romance rather than adult contemporary. The angst level was pretty low and there wasn't a lot of conflict, although what there was of it at the end did seem to be a bit contrived. Overall, I came away from the book with a happy sigh and a big smile. I've never read anything else by this author, but I will definitely be picking up some of the other books in this series.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
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