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Blairwood University #3
Kiss to Defy
I honestly didn’t mean to run down a hot, broody hockey player on my first day on campus. It just sort of happened.
In my defense, I didn’t do it on purpose. He was the one who wasn’t looking where he was walking. Not that he sees it my way.
When he storms off, I think I’ll never see him again. But I’m wrong because he’s in the ice rink first thing the next morning. Zane West thinks he can boss me around, but he has another thing coming. I’ve worked too hard to give up now.
I might want to have a normal college life, but I’m not giving up on my dream of competing at the Winter Games either, so he’ll have to learn how to share the ice.
And finally, he does. One night we stay at the rink late, and he helps me land the jump I’ve been struggling with. And then I jump him and we almost set the ice on fire.
He thinks we’re too different to work, but I can see him for exactly who he is, and we’re like two halves of one whole. Can we defy the odds, or have we been doomed from the very beginning?
In my defense, I didn’t do it on purpose. He was the one who wasn’t looking where he was walking. Not that he sees it my way.
When he storms off, I think I’ll never see him again. But I’m wrong because he’s in the ice rink first thing the next morning. Zane West thinks he can boss me around, but he has another thing coming. I’ve worked too hard to give up now.
I might want to have a normal college life, but I’m not giving up on my dream of competing at the Winter Games either, so he’ll have to learn how to share the ice.
And finally, he does. One night we stay at the rink late, and he helps me land the jump I’ve been struggling with. And then I jump him and we almost set the ice on fire.
He thinks we’re too different to work, but I can see him for exactly who he is, and we’re like two halves of one whole. Can we defy the odds, or have we been doomed from the very beginning?
450 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 9, 2021
About the author
Anna B. Doe
37 books1,978 followersAnna B. Doe is an Amazon Top 30, USA Today and international bestselling author of new adult sports romance. She grew up near Zagreb, capital of Croatia where she still lives. She fell in love with reading at an early age, and she knew she wanted to be an author.
She writes real-life romance, filled with angst and banter. Her characters are flawed and relatable. If you love big groups of friends with strong, sassy heroines and sexy heroes who're obsessed with them, Anna's books are perfect for you.
When she's not writing her newest book you can find her reading, binge-watching TV shows or listening to music on long walks with her dog. She's addicted to coffee and can't wait for her next adventure.
She is currently working on various projects. Some more secret than others.
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She writes real-life romance, filled with angst and banter. Her characters are flawed and relatable. If you love big groups of friends with strong, sassy heroines and sexy heroes who're obsessed with them, Anna's books are perfect for you.
When she's not writing her newest book you can find her reading, binge-watching TV shows or listening to music on long walks with her dog. She's addicted to coffee and can't wait for her next adventure.
She is currently working on various projects. Some more secret than others.
FIND ANNA ON SOCIAL MEDIA
FACEBOOK: http://bit.ly/ABDoeFB
FACEBOOK GROUP: http://bit.ly/Bookmantic
GOODREADS: http://bit.ly/ABDoeGR
INSTAGRAM: http://bit.ly/ABDoeIG
AMAZON: http://amzn.to/2v6Op7D
PINTEREST: http://bit.ly/ABDoePint
BOOKBUB: http://bit.ly/ABDoeBB
TIKTOK: https://bit.ly/DoeTikTok
NEWSLETTER: https://www.subscribepage.com/annabdo...
AUDIO NEWSLETTER: http://bit.ly/ABDoeAudio
MASTER LIST: https://www.subscribepage.com/bookman...
WEBPAGE: https://www.annabdoe.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 293 reviews
July 19, 2021
Kiss to Defy is a new adult, multicultural college sports romance. It is the story of Rei, a figure skating prodigy trying to make it to The Winter Games and Zane, a boy from the wrong side of the tracks trying to move on from his past and work towards the life he wants.
CW/TW: racism, mentions of abuse and drugs
This story had a good flow throughout. There wasn’t any one element of the story that felt unnecessary. This book started off well with just the right amount of romcom-esque moments that kept throwing our main characters together while also focusing on their individual story development. One thing that I especially loved about this was that it was one of the few rare books which was about a female character with ambitions to make it to a professional level in her chosen sport. Rei has big dreams and is told by quite a few people that those dreams are impossible to achieve. But she knows what she wants and she perseveres to make it happen. I also love the supportive, understanding person Zane is and the beautiful friendship between Rei and her roommates. Anna has dropped subtle hints about some of the side characters’ story throughout the book. It has piqued my curiosity enough to already anticipate their books.
Although the author goes heavy on details about figure skating, it is done in a way that keeps the reader interested and does not come across as dry facts. I actually learned quite a lot about figure skating from this book. She has also handled some heavy topics such as racism with care and refinement.
This story is told from dual perspectives. Usually, what I like about such a narration is that we get a good idea about what thinking on part of both the main characters led to the decisions they make in the climax of the story. But I found that the resolution to the conflict in this story arrived too soon and without much pre-text to the characters’ thoughts on the matter.
This was a bit disappointing, especially because the cause for their conflict had been written about right from the beginning. Another thing that I did not like was that Rei turned out to be a quitter right when things got hard for her. This was not in line with the determined personality she had through the rest of the story.
Nonetheless, Kiss to Defy was pleasantly different from other college sports romances. I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy a story with diversity, angst, amazing friendships and a slow burn romance. If you decide to read it, make sure you don’t miss the bonus epilogue.
Special thanks to the author for sharing an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
KISS TO DEFY is available for free on Kindle Unlimited.
Find me :
| INSTAGRAM |
CW/TW: racism, mentions of abuse and drugs
This story had a good flow throughout. There wasn’t any one element of the story that felt unnecessary. This book started off well with just the right amount of romcom-esque moments that kept throwing our main characters together while also focusing on their individual story development. One thing that I especially loved about this was that it was one of the few rare books which was about a female character with ambitions to make it to a professional level in her chosen sport. Rei has big dreams and is told by quite a few people that those dreams are impossible to achieve. But she knows what she wants and she perseveres to make it happen. I also love the supportive, understanding person Zane is and the beautiful friendship between Rei and her roommates. Anna has dropped subtle hints about some of the side characters’ story throughout the book. It has piqued my curiosity enough to already anticipate their books.
Although the author goes heavy on details about figure skating, it is done in a way that keeps the reader interested and does not come across as dry facts. I actually learned quite a lot about figure skating from this book. She has also handled some heavy topics such as racism with care and refinement.
This story is told from dual perspectives. Usually, what I like about such a narration is that we get a good idea about what thinking on part of both the main characters led to the decisions they make in the climax of the story. But I found that the resolution to the conflict in this story arrived too soon and without much pre-text to the characters’ thoughts on the matter.
This was a bit disappointing, especially because the cause for their conflict had been written about right from the beginning. Another thing that I did not like was that Rei turned out to be a quitter right when things got hard for her. This was not in line with the determined personality she had through the rest of the story.
Nonetheless, Kiss to Defy was pleasantly different from other college sports romances. I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy a story with diversity, angst, amazing friendships and a slow burn romance. If you decide to read it, make sure you don’t miss the bonus epilogue.
Special thanks to the author for sharing an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
KISS TO DEFY is available for free on Kindle Unlimited.
Find me :
| INSTAGRAM |
July 9, 2021
With every book I read by Anna B Doe I fall more in love with her writing, books and characters. With this series you get to see many main characters from her first books, appear in this one. I love that about Anna’s way of writing. Since Kiss to Conquer, she has me hooked on her books and I can’t get enough. They’re just that amazing.
Rei and Zane had a love and hate relationship in this book since he things she tried to ruin him over, then took over his practice rink time. She’s just all over the place in his mind. But she’s soo pretty too. He’s mesmerized by her, as she is with him.
I thought her first books in the series were amazing, but this book was simply top notch! Rei and Zane are literally perfect for
I love how friends and family play such a big role in these books. How they would do anything for each other and how close everyone is. I think everyone wants that in their lives and its so great to read. They’re a breath of fresh air.
Rei and Zane had a love and hate relationship in this book since he things she tried to ruin him over, then took over his practice rink time. She’s just all over the place in his mind. But she’s soo pretty too. He’s mesmerized by her, as she is with him.
I thought her first books in the series were amazing, but this book was simply top notch! Rei and Zane are literally perfect for
I love how friends and family play such a big role in these books. How they would do anything for each other and how close everyone is. I think everyone wants that in their lives and its so great to read. They’re a breath of fresh air.
January 27, 2022
3.5 stelline
L'ho trovato un po' più sottotono rispetto ai precedenti. Si tratta comunque di una piacevole lettura e continuerò sicuramente la serie
L'ho trovato un po' più sottotono rispetto ai precedenti. Si tratta comunque di una piacevole lettura e continuerò sicuramente la serie
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July 9, 2021
𝐒𝐡𝐞'𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐲. 𝐇𝐞'𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐮𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬.
𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐬... 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐜𝐞.
Blurb:
𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐬…
After dedicating her entire life to figure skating, Rei Mitchell-Nagasaki is ready for a little bit of normal. And what’s more normal than attending college?
Zane West has had a rough life, but he’s found his way out of Ashton Heights and he isn’t about to lose it all when the demons of his past come knocking at the door.
… 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐜𝐞.
Rei has one semester to show her father that she can have it all—a normal life and making it to the Winter Games—but it’s not so easy when there is a broody hockey player standing in her way. Once heated arguments turn into sharing the rink and late-night kisses, neither of them will be able to resist the pull.
Will they manage to defy the odds or was their love doomed from the very beginning?
FREE with Kindle Unlimited ➡ https://books2read.com/u/4NwDGN
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/32Y152k
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/3xABHxQ
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AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/3xw5mYS
About Kiss To Defy:
💜 college romance
⛸ sports romance - ⛸ & 🏒
💜 multicultural & interracial romance
⛸ slow burn
💜 angst
⛸ interconnected standalone
TBR: https://bit.ly/tbrBWU3
Vote most anticipated July romance: https://bit.ly/3tGfwDW
𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲? 𝐁𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲!
FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Kiss Me First ➜ https://books2read.com/u/mdnV0Z
Kiss To Conquer ➜ https://books2read.com/u/3G20Vd
Kiss To Forget ➜ https://books2read.com/u/3Lgzk1
Kiss To Defy ➜ https://books2read.com/u/4NwDGN
Kiss To Remember ➜ https://books2read.com/u/47N2Y8
November 18, 2021
Recensione in Review Party sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/CWa7MHCMF...
Rei Mitchell-Nagasaki, due volte campionessa statunitense di pattinaggio artistico, veniva definita “Skater Girl” dai nuovi amici conosciuti alla Blairwood University, e a lei piaceva molto quella dimostrazione d’affetto.
Il pattinaggio artistico era uno sport altamente competitivo, più in alto si saliva più diventava spietato. In più di un’occasione era stata testimone di atti di bullismo, tiri mancini e invidie corrosive, ma aveva sempre preferito tenere la testa bassa e concentrarsi sul pattinaggio che tanto amava.
Per tutta la vita era stata circondata da moltissime ragazze ma con nessuna di loro era nata un’affinità tale da poterla definire una vera amica. Ma da quando aveva messo piede in quel campus le cose erano cambiate.
Fin da subito Jade e Grace, le sue compagne di stanza, si erano mostrate affabili e gentili nei suoi confronti, facendola sentire benvenuta tra loro.
E poi aveva conosciuto Zane, talentuoso giocatore di hockey e ragazzo tutto d’un pezzo, assennato e saggio al punto che i suoi compagni di squadra lo chiamavano scherzosamente Papà West.
Teneva molto a ognuno di loro e faceva sempre del suo meglio per tenerli lontano dai guai.
L’hockey lo aveva salvato proprio quando stava passando il peggior momento della sua vita, quando veniva considerato solo un teppista di Ashton Heights che si portava dietro un pesante fardello.
Insieme al suo migliore amico Hayden, a sua nonna e ai coinquilini con i quali condivideva il dormitorio, la squadra era di fatto la sua unica famiglia. E ne era orgoglioso.
La prima volta che vide Rei non fu un incontro rilassato e piacevole. Tutt’altro. Ma quella ragazza saccente e senza peli sulla lingua lo aveva colpito fin da subito:
«Anche se è alta appena un metro e cinquanta, è un metro e cinquanta di fuoco che danza sul ghiaccio».
Le loro strade non avevano fatto in tempo ad incrociarsi che già si era creata attrazione e una potente alchimia, pur non sapendo ancora che avrebbero condiviso anche il cammino.
🖋️In questo romanzo l’autrice ha dipinto una protagonista forte, ambiziosa e determinata a raggiungere a tutti costi gli obiettivi prefissati. Una vera professionista, che non ha paura di superare i propri limiti né quelli imposti dalla forza di gravità, che rappresenta un elemento decisivo nella riuscita delle sue spettacolari performance.
Ha sempre sacrificato senza alcuna remora il tempo a disposizione con amici e affetti, la scuola e il ballo, solo per riuscire a fare quello che più amava nella vita, e di farlo con professionalità e grazia.
🖋️Zane è un protagonista buono, il classico bravo ragazzo che cerca sempre di fare la cosa giusta, in ogni occasione. Purtroppo assorbe a livello emotivo l’influenza di esperienze passate e un vissuto complicato, che condizionano profondamente il suo stato d’animo, già pessimista e poco orientato al futuro.
Preferisce vivere nell’ombra, in modo anonimo, pericolosamente in bilico tra il bene e il male, mentre Rei adora stare sotto i riflettori e sente di esser destinata al successo.
🖋️Due esistenze in contrapposizione, due modi di vivere completamente diversi. Riuscire a superare pregiudizi, stereotipi e luoghi comuni, non sarà un problema per entrambi, ma il giudizio delle persone a loro più vicine avrà un suo peso.
Non resta che leggere il romanzo per scoprire quale.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia ARC
https://www.instagram.com/p/CWa7MHCMF...
Rei Mitchell-Nagasaki, due volte campionessa statunitense di pattinaggio artistico, veniva definita “Skater Girl” dai nuovi amici conosciuti alla Blairwood University, e a lei piaceva molto quella dimostrazione d’affetto.
Il pattinaggio artistico era uno sport altamente competitivo, più in alto si saliva più diventava spietato. In più di un’occasione era stata testimone di atti di bullismo, tiri mancini e invidie corrosive, ma aveva sempre preferito tenere la testa bassa e concentrarsi sul pattinaggio che tanto amava.
Per tutta la vita era stata circondata da moltissime ragazze ma con nessuna di loro era nata un’affinità tale da poterla definire una vera amica. Ma da quando aveva messo piede in quel campus le cose erano cambiate.
Fin da subito Jade e Grace, le sue compagne di stanza, si erano mostrate affabili e gentili nei suoi confronti, facendola sentire benvenuta tra loro.
E poi aveva conosciuto Zane, talentuoso giocatore di hockey e ragazzo tutto d’un pezzo, assennato e saggio al punto che i suoi compagni di squadra lo chiamavano scherzosamente Papà West.
Teneva molto a ognuno di loro e faceva sempre del suo meglio per tenerli lontano dai guai.
L’hockey lo aveva salvato proprio quando stava passando il peggior momento della sua vita, quando veniva considerato solo un teppista di Ashton Heights che si portava dietro un pesante fardello.
Insieme al suo migliore amico Hayden, a sua nonna e ai coinquilini con i quali condivideva il dormitorio, la squadra era di fatto la sua unica famiglia. E ne era orgoglioso.
La prima volta che vide Rei non fu un incontro rilassato e piacevole. Tutt’altro. Ma quella ragazza saccente e senza peli sulla lingua lo aveva colpito fin da subito:
«Anche se è alta appena un metro e cinquanta, è un metro e cinquanta di fuoco che danza sul ghiaccio».
Le loro strade non avevano fatto in tempo ad incrociarsi che già si era creata attrazione e una potente alchimia, pur non sapendo ancora che avrebbero condiviso anche il cammino.
🖋️In questo romanzo l’autrice ha dipinto una protagonista forte, ambiziosa e determinata a raggiungere a tutti costi gli obiettivi prefissati. Una vera professionista, che non ha paura di superare i propri limiti né quelli imposti dalla forza di gravità, che rappresenta un elemento decisivo nella riuscita delle sue spettacolari performance.
Ha sempre sacrificato senza alcuna remora il tempo a disposizione con amici e affetti, la scuola e il ballo, solo per riuscire a fare quello che più amava nella vita, e di farlo con professionalità e grazia.
🖋️Zane è un protagonista buono, il classico bravo ragazzo che cerca sempre di fare la cosa giusta, in ogni occasione. Purtroppo assorbe a livello emotivo l’influenza di esperienze passate e un vissuto complicato, che condizionano profondamente il suo stato d’animo, già pessimista e poco orientato al futuro.
Preferisce vivere nell’ombra, in modo anonimo, pericolosamente in bilico tra il bene e il male, mentre Rei adora stare sotto i riflettori e sente di esser destinata al successo.
🖋️Due esistenze in contrapposizione, due modi di vivere completamente diversi. Riuscire a superare pregiudizi, stereotipi e luoghi comuni, non sarà un problema per entrambi, ma il giudizio delle persone a loro più vicine avrà un suo peso.
Non resta che leggere il romanzo per scoprire quale.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia ARC
May 3, 2023
Oh, you'll love this one!
July 8, 2021
*POSSIBLE SPOILERS*
KISS TO DEFY
BY ANNA B. DOE
As the daughter of one of the best figure skaters in her time, Rei Mitchell-Nagasaki has a legacy to protect. Never even given the chance to meet her mother, the only way Rei felt connected to her, was skating. First, watching old videos of her mother on the ice was a way to understand her, to connect to a person she never got the chance to know. But then Rei fell in love with the sport. After all, it was in her blood, it was where she felt at home. Having dedicated her entire life to figure skating, she unfortunately had to give up many things. But now, attending college is something she’d like to give a shot. However, with the upcoming competitions that will determine whether or not she qualifies for the most important event in her entire life, the Winter Games, she needs to convince her father that she’s capable of multitasking her figure skating career and her academic life on campus.
Having grown up in a rough neighborhood, Zane West longs for a life far different from the one he managed to escape. Now all he wants is a peaceful life, study sports medicine, and to play hockey. Hockey, the sport that kept him out of trouble in his youth. When a figure from his past comes crawling back into his life, he realizes his past won’t let him live in peace, at least not for now. Because where his mother goes, trouble always follows.
Rei and Zane come from two completely different worlds, but the one thing they have in common, is their shared love for the ice. But Zane wants nothing more than to protect Rei from his old life. Because trouble is the last thing he wants to drag Rei in, especially not with the Winter Games coming up.
The first, and most important thing, I’d like to share with you guys, is how much I smiled. I began reading this book with a smile and my face, and it stayed on all throughout. That’s all I need you to know at the moment, that this book kept a smile on my face, from beginning until the end.
First off, I’d like to say how much I loved reading this book. The blurb really drew me in and the plot was terrific. Sports AND college romance? Sign me up!
When I first heard about this book, all I remember thinking was how excited I was to read a ‘figure skater x hockey player’ college romance, a trope I’ve been begging the Gods of literature for. It got even better when it was described as slow-burn and angsty. But do you know what really made my heart burst? The fact that this is an interracial romance. And not in the usual BIPOC-and-Causasian. No, no, darling.
This is about two BIPOC characters. That, that alone made me want to do a victory dance. Hold my phone, hold my drink, put on the music; time to party! Even though I’m not of Japanese descent like our heroine Rei, I am still of Asian descent, and am here to celebrate the Asian representation, woohoo!
The writing was fun and easy to follow, which made the plot easy to follow and understand in return.
The relationships they had with their friends was both hilarious, sweet, and heart-warming. The bantering between them was fun to read, and I caught myself laughing and giggling, and lots of smiling of course, out loud with them. Honestly, it made me miss my friends quite a lot.
The characters were amazing, I absolutely loved Rei and Zane, both for different reasons.
Rei was confident, she was strong, and she was determined. She had a goal, so she stuck by her routine, and focused on achieving that one thing she had set her mind to. I love how she didn’t let her dreams of competing in the Winter Games stop her from living her life in the moment, or her new exciting life (so different from before) distract her from her ultimate dreams. She managed to balance her skating career and new personal life so well, in just one single semester. Rei went from focusing her entire life to skating, to making new friend and experiencing a ‘normal’ life as a college student.
Now Zane? Even though he’s a grumpy and brooding giant, he was such a sweet character at heart. Not just with Rei, but with his chosen family and his friends as well. He’s helpful and caring, and so supportive of our heroine Rei. Now Zane studies sports medicine, so when he’s not on the ice or in the clinic, he can be found in the gym helping others as much as he possibly can, even when he’s already off. Grumpy, but also nice, caring, and helpful. Zane, to me, deserves all the best in this world. Who wouldn’t want a supportive partner in their life? Someone who believes in you so fiercely? Someone who tries to help you in any way they can, even if they know little to nothing about it?
In short, Rei and Zane were amazing characters who go so, so well together. And every time I think about this book, I get butterflies in my stomach.
Don’t forget to check for the bonus epilogue link after the last chapter, it’s one you would not want to miss, that I can promise you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review your newest book, Anna! Here’s to many more successes!
KISS TO DEFY
BY ANNA B. DOE
As the daughter of one of the best figure skaters in her time, Rei Mitchell-Nagasaki has a legacy to protect. Never even given the chance to meet her mother, the only way Rei felt connected to her, was skating. First, watching old videos of her mother on the ice was a way to understand her, to connect to a person she never got the chance to know. But then Rei fell in love with the sport. After all, it was in her blood, it was where she felt at home. Having dedicated her entire life to figure skating, she unfortunately had to give up many things. But now, attending college is something she’d like to give a shot. However, with the upcoming competitions that will determine whether or not she qualifies for the most important event in her entire life, the Winter Games, she needs to convince her father that she’s capable of multitasking her figure skating career and her academic life on campus.
Having grown up in a rough neighborhood, Zane West longs for a life far different from the one he managed to escape. Now all he wants is a peaceful life, study sports medicine, and to play hockey. Hockey, the sport that kept him out of trouble in his youth. When a figure from his past comes crawling back into his life, he realizes his past won’t let him live in peace, at least not for now. Because where his mother goes, trouble always follows.
Rei and Zane come from two completely different worlds, but the one thing they have in common, is their shared love for the ice. But Zane wants nothing more than to protect Rei from his old life. Because trouble is the last thing he wants to drag Rei in, especially not with the Winter Games coming up.
The first, and most important thing, I’d like to share with you guys, is how much I smiled. I began reading this book with a smile and my face, and it stayed on all throughout. That’s all I need you to know at the moment, that this book kept a smile on my face, from beginning until the end.
First off, I’d like to say how much I loved reading this book. The blurb really drew me in and the plot was terrific. Sports AND college romance? Sign me up!
When I first heard about this book, all I remember thinking was how excited I was to read a ‘figure skater x hockey player’ college romance, a trope I’ve been begging the Gods of literature for. It got even better when it was described as slow-burn and angsty. But do you know what really made my heart burst? The fact that this is an interracial romance. And not in the usual BIPOC-and-Causasian. No, no, darling.
This is about two BIPOC characters. That, that alone made me want to do a victory dance. Hold my phone, hold my drink, put on the music; time to party! Even though I’m not of Japanese descent like our heroine Rei, I am still of Asian descent, and am here to celebrate the Asian representation, woohoo!
The writing was fun and easy to follow, which made the plot easy to follow and understand in return.
The relationships they had with their friends was both hilarious, sweet, and heart-warming. The bantering between them was fun to read, and I caught myself laughing and giggling, and lots of smiling of course, out loud with them. Honestly, it made me miss my friends quite a lot.
The characters were amazing, I absolutely loved Rei and Zane, both for different reasons.
Rei was confident, she was strong, and she was determined. She had a goal, so she stuck by her routine, and focused on achieving that one thing she had set her mind to. I love how she didn’t let her dreams of competing in the Winter Games stop her from living her life in the moment, or her new exciting life (so different from before) distract her from her ultimate dreams. She managed to balance her skating career and new personal life so well, in just one single semester. Rei went from focusing her entire life to skating, to making new friend and experiencing a ‘normal’ life as a college student.
Now Zane? Even though he’s a grumpy and brooding giant, he was such a sweet character at heart. Not just with Rei, but with his chosen family and his friends as well. He’s helpful and caring, and so supportive of our heroine Rei. Now Zane studies sports medicine, so when he’s not on the ice or in the clinic, he can be found in the gym helping others as much as he possibly can, even when he’s already off. Grumpy, but also nice, caring, and helpful. Zane, to me, deserves all the best in this world. Who wouldn’t want a supportive partner in their life? Someone who believes in you so fiercely? Someone who tries to help you in any way they can, even if they know little to nothing about it?
In short, Rei and Zane were amazing characters who go so, so well together. And every time I think about this book, I get butterflies in my stomach.
Don’t forget to check for the bonus epilogue link after the last chapter, it’s one you would not want to miss, that I can promise you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review your newest book, Anna! Here’s to many more successes!
July 2, 2021
This book kept me hooked from the beginning all the way to the end!
The way Anna introduces the characters sets the tone for the book.
Zane is broody and no-nonsense while Rei is feisty. They are opposites in every sense of the word. But they work SO well together.
Anna B. Doe told this story so incredibly well that as I read, the printed words fell away and it was all playing out in my head.
Zane and Rei's bedroom scenes were one of Doe's hottest!
I love this series and, while each story can be read as a standalone, I highly suggest reading them all.
The way Anna introduces the characters sets the tone for the book.
Zane is broody and no-nonsense while Rei is feisty. They are opposites in every sense of the word. But they work SO well together.
Anna B. Doe told this story so incredibly well that as I read, the printed words fell away and it was all playing out in my head.
Zane and Rei's bedroom scenes were one of Doe's hottest!
I love this series and, while each story can be read as a standalone, I highly suggest reading them all.
July 6, 2021
This was actually my first book of Anna B Doe’s but I can guarantee you in won’t be my last.
I am a SUCKER for college romances and sports romances. And GUESS WHAT! This was both!!!!
Our main characters are opposites in every way and I LOVED that. It caused some amazing banter and made the slow burn romance so much for enjoyable while still rooting for them from the start. 💜
It was interesting to see the figure skating aspect of the college world! I’ve never read anything featuring figure skating so prominently and I loved it!
I do wish I had read the other books in the series just because those characters popped up in Zane and Rei’s story and I sorta felt like I was missing something but it can definitely be read as a stand alone!
I’ll definitely be picking up more of her books!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
I am a SUCKER for college romances and sports romances. And GUESS WHAT! This was both!!!!
Our main characters are opposites in every way and I LOVED that. It caused some amazing banter and made the slow burn romance so much for enjoyable while still rooting for them from the start. 💜
It was interesting to see the figure skating aspect of the college world! I’ve never read anything featuring figure skating so prominently and I loved it!
I do wish I had read the other books in the series just because those characters popped up in Zane and Rei’s story and I sorta felt like I was missing something but it can definitely be read as a stand alone!
I’ll definitely be picking up more of her books!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
November 17, 2021
4.5 stelline
Recensione di Laura sul blog https://www.leggereromanticamente.com...
Un libro che mi ha sorpresa positivamente e ha superato le mie aspettative confermando la bravura della scrittrice. Consigliatissimo.
Recensione di Laura sul blog https://www.leggereromanticamente.com...
Un libro che mi ha sorpresa positivamente e ha superato le mie aspettative confermando la bravura della scrittrice. Consigliatissimo.
July 13, 2021
*ARC received for an honest review*
Kiss to Defy is the third book of Blairwood University. It is my first book by Anna B. Doe. I love the Figure Skater Heroine n Hockey player Hero trope. So I was really excited for this book. And I wasn't disappointed by it. This was so so so good. I loved every minute of it from the start to the end.
Rei was a famous Figure Skater who was homeschooled her whole life decided to attend college & experience it the way all people her age do. I really loved her character. She was strong, independent, determined, kind, friendly n also sassy. She had a goal in life n wanted to achieve it no matter what. She worked hard for her goals.
Zane was a hockey player. He had a rough start in life, despite that he worked hard to get where he is today n make something of himself. In the start, he comes off as this really grumpy guy who hates the world. But as the story goes on, we find there is more to him than what's meet the eye. He is a really good n amazing person. The way he cares about people especially his friends, his grams who took him in n gave him a family which he never had before.
Rei n Zane's relationship started off with a wrong foot. And the first few chapters continues with them having a love-hate relationship. Their banters were entertaining. And their chemistry was off the charts. The way they cared about each other. They saw each other for what they really are n not what the others showed them. They understood each other well. They had their fair share of insecurities, but that didn't stop them from falling for each other.
I loved the other characters too. I can't wait to read their books. I know I'm going to love it as much as did this.
I also loved how this book tackled some of the important issues.
Overall this book was amazing. I loved it so much. I can't wait to read more about this couple in the future books.
Thanks Anna B. Doe for giving me the arc.
Kiss to Defy is the third book of Blairwood University. It is my first book by Anna B. Doe. I love the Figure Skater Heroine n Hockey player Hero trope. So I was really excited for this book. And I wasn't disappointed by it. This was so so so good. I loved every minute of it from the start to the end.
Rei was a famous Figure Skater who was homeschooled her whole life decided to attend college & experience it the way all people her age do. I really loved her character. She was strong, independent, determined, kind, friendly n also sassy. She had a goal in life n wanted to achieve it no matter what. She worked hard for her goals.
Zane was a hockey player. He had a rough start in life, despite that he worked hard to get where he is today n make something of himself. In the start, he comes off as this really grumpy guy who hates the world. But as the story goes on, we find there is more to him than what's meet the eye. He is a really good n amazing person. The way he cares about people especially his friends, his grams who took him in n gave him a family which he never had before.
Rei n Zane's relationship started off with a wrong foot. And the first few chapters continues with them having a love-hate relationship. Their banters were entertaining. And their chemistry was off the charts. The way they cared about each other. They saw each other for what they really are n not what the others showed them. They understood each other well. They had their fair share of insecurities, but that didn't stop them from falling for each other.
I loved the other characters too. I can't wait to read their books. I know I'm going to love it as much as did this.
I also loved how this book tackled some of the important issues.
Overall this book was amazing. I loved it so much. I can't wait to read more about this couple in the future books.
Thanks Anna B. Doe for giving me the arc.
July 1, 2021
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Can I give 10 stars!!??
I loved it so much. The emotions were so perfect, the sports elements were the best, their relationship... I have no words to describe how good it was. Overall the story was so freaking good!!!!
Rei is the cutest, she is my book girlfriend and is now close with Serena Roberts. Her passion and love for figure skating is something I adored a lot. She pushed her boundaries to achieve and be best at what she does. Her determination is the best part of her. Though she overworks at times, there are people who tell her to stop and take a break. Her relationship with her dad turned from cute to annoying to cute again😂 Regardless he is her dad and he loves her the most. She is sassy af! Did I mention that? The amount of sass she has, Oh God, I can only imagine how Jade is gonna be🙊
Zane, my book boyfriend. He is sweet, caring, loving and supportive. He loves the work he does, he had so much on his plate. Ahh!!! I felt so bad that he had to go through so much. He owns my heart. The way he cares for his friends, Rei and Grams. Why do bad things happen to good people. He was passionate about what he did too, what he wants to do and also I think he'd make a perfect coach🙈 (not a spoiler, it's just my opinion). Despite all the bad things that happened, he grew up to be such a good person and I absolutely loved him.
Rei and Zane their relationship was so good, the way they met, the way they sassed around each other until they couldn't stop touching or wanting each other. So good!!! They were there for each other whenever the other person was in need and supported each other and loved to the maximum.
There were scenes which had me crying and the Bonus Epilogue is what opened a freaking dam😂 I didn't know I needed that part until it read it.
Seeing other characters from the previous books brought me such happiness. I adore each person from all the books. Eagerly waiting for Grace's book♥
Once again thank you Anna for the ARC, cant thank you enough.😘
Can I give 10 stars!!??
I loved it so much. The emotions were so perfect, the sports elements were the best, their relationship... I have no words to describe how good it was. Overall the story was so freaking good!!!!
Rei is the cutest, she is my book girlfriend and is now close with Serena Roberts. Her passion and love for figure skating is something I adored a lot. She pushed her boundaries to achieve and be best at what she does. Her determination is the best part of her. Though she overworks at times, there are people who tell her to stop and take a break. Her relationship with her dad turned from cute to annoying to cute again😂 Regardless he is her dad and he loves her the most. She is sassy af! Did I mention that? The amount of sass she has, Oh God, I can only imagine how Jade is gonna be🙊
Zane, my book boyfriend. He is sweet, caring, loving and supportive. He loves the work he does, he had so much on his plate. Ahh!!! I felt so bad that he had to go through so much. He owns my heart. The way he cares for his friends, Rei and Grams. Why do bad things happen to good people. He was passionate about what he did too, what he wants to do and also I think he'd make a perfect coach🙈 (not a spoiler, it's just my opinion). Despite all the bad things that happened, he grew up to be such a good person and I absolutely loved him.
Rei and Zane their relationship was so good, the way they met, the way they sassed around each other until they couldn't stop touching or wanting each other. So good!!! They were there for each other whenever the other person was in need and supported each other and loved to the maximum.
There were scenes which had me crying and the Bonus Epilogue is what opened a freaking dam😂 I didn't know I needed that part until it read it.
Seeing other characters from the previous books brought me such happiness. I adore each person from all the books. Eagerly waiting for Grace's book♥
Once again thank you Anna for the ARC, cant thank you enough.😘
July 9, 2021
OH WOW, I can't being to explain how much I loved this book. Once I started it, I couldn't put it down.
From the very first chapter, I felt like I was back visiting friends. All the images I had in my head of the campus came flooding back and I was home. The character were all there and it was like a great catch up.
Rei and Zane, I genuinely didn't know I could love characters more than the previous character, but these two. Wow, their chemistry literally screamed and jumped from the pages. I loved how bold and determined Rei was, I loved how vulnerable Zane allowed himself to be. Between the two of them, they pushed and pulled each other to become better people and it was amazing to read their development.
I felt every emotion with these characters. Anna B Doe has such an amazing ability to capture a special moment and give you all the feelings. I felt like I was there, witnessing everything. When Zane and Rei skated, I could feel their love and passion for their sports.
I could stay here all day and try and put this book into words, on how much I enjoyed it, but it won't be enough.
I highly recommend you experience this book for yourself.
This book is part of a series, however, it can be read 100% as a standalone. (In saying that, I would recommend the other books too because they are amazing too.)
Thank you to the author for a copy of this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
From the very first chapter, I felt like I was back visiting friends. All the images I had in my head of the campus came flooding back and I was home. The character were all there and it was like a great catch up.
Rei and Zane, I genuinely didn't know I could love characters more than the previous character, but these two. Wow, their chemistry literally screamed and jumped from the pages. I loved how bold and determined Rei was, I loved how vulnerable Zane allowed himself to be. Between the two of them, they pushed and pulled each other to become better people and it was amazing to read their development.
I felt every emotion with these characters. Anna B Doe has such an amazing ability to capture a special moment and give you all the feelings. I felt like I was there, witnessing everything. When Zane and Rei skated, I could feel their love and passion for their sports.
I could stay here all day and try and put this book into words, on how much I enjoyed it, but it won't be enough.
I highly recommend you experience this book for yourself.
This book is part of a series, however, it can be read 100% as a standalone. (In saying that, I would recommend the other books too because they are amazing too.)
Thank you to the author for a copy of this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2021
4.5 🌟
Anna B Doe managed to write something I have been looking for some time, a fresh sports college romance. I’m so happy about it!
The story is about Rei, a professional figure skater looking for a little bit of normal college experience and Zane, a hockey player from the wrong side of the tracks.
I absolutely loved both characters! Rei is sassy and funny but also goal oriented. Zane is just swoon worthy 😍 and I really liked that for once the guy is the insecure one of the relationship. Their banter and chemistry was awesome 🥰
This book got I silly smile on my face but also made me shed a couple of (angry) tears with the reality of police brutality against people of color.
I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a great real romance!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Anna B Doe managed to write something I have been looking for some time, a fresh sports college romance. I’m so happy about it!
The story is about Rei, a professional figure skater looking for a little bit of normal college experience and Zane, a hockey player from the wrong side of the tracks.
I absolutely loved both characters! Rei is sassy and funny but also goal oriented. Zane is just swoon worthy 😍 and I really liked that for once the guy is the insecure one of the relationship. Their banter and chemistry was awesome 🥰
This book got I silly smile on my face but also made me shed a couple of (angry) tears with the reality of police brutality against people of color.
I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a great real romance!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
July 20, 2021
Rei and Zane are polar opposites but they have one thing in common: passion for the sport they play. Rei is the daughter of a figure skating legend which has prompted her to follow in her footsteps. She is overprotected by her father, whom she adores but would like to have a little more freedom and have a normal life, enjoying every stage of her college life without losing her main goal: to get to the Winter Games. For his part, Zane West is a young man with a natural talent for hockey. He is reserved and has a somewhat strong temperament. He tries to keep his family background hidden, since he did not live a happy childhood; however, hockey has given him the opportunity to transcend and achieve a place at Blairwood University and with this he intends to pursue a career in sports medicine.
Neither of them expects to meet the other, and although the first meeting wasa disaster, fate ensures from that moment on they coincide on several occasions. Their interactions improve as the days go by, getting to know each other and increasing the attraction that both feel for each other. "Kiss to Defy" is a beautiful story that emphasizes values such as friendship, empathy, and perseverance. The passion they both show for their respective sports is admirable. I loved the character appearances from the previous books: Hayden, Nixon, and Emmett, as well as Callie, Yasmin, and Kate. Topics such as drug addiction, discrimination and family relationships are also covered.
Thanks to Anna B. Doe for providing me with this ARC, I really enjoyed it.
***𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰***
Neither of them expects to meet the other, and although the first meeting wasa disaster, fate ensures from that moment on they coincide on several occasions. Their interactions improve as the days go by, getting to know each other and increasing the attraction that both feel for each other. "Kiss to Defy" is a beautiful story that emphasizes values such as friendship, empathy, and perseverance. The passion they both show for their respective sports is admirable. I loved the character appearances from the previous books: Hayden, Nixon, and Emmett, as well as Callie, Yasmin, and Kate. Topics such as drug addiction, discrimination and family relationships are also covered.
Thanks to Anna B. Doe for providing me with this ARC, I really enjoyed it.
***𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰***
July 4, 2021
My first read by Anna B. Doe; certainly not my last!
When Anna reached out to me on Instagram about reading an reviewing an ARC of Kiss to Defy, I was ALL over it as soon as I read the blurb. I freaking love figure skating - it's such a stunning sport, and I have been dying to read another figure skating romance since reading From Lukov With Love by Mariana Zapata. Kiss to Defy is a figure skating x hockey romance, and it absolutely lived up to all of my expectations.
While Kiss to Defy is a fun, light-hearted read with moments of steam, it also tackles tough topics and is filled with diversity. This story is filled with depth, humor, and a swoon worth romance that will knock your socks off. If you're searching for a sports romance to be your next read, consider giving Kiss To Defy the one-click it deserves!
When Anna reached out to me on Instagram about reading an reviewing an ARC of Kiss to Defy, I was ALL over it as soon as I read the blurb. I freaking love figure skating - it's such a stunning sport, and I have been dying to read another figure skating romance since reading From Lukov With Love by Mariana Zapata. Kiss to Defy is a figure skating x hockey romance, and it absolutely lived up to all of my expectations.
While Kiss to Defy is a fun, light-hearted read with moments of steam, it also tackles tough topics and is filled with diversity. This story is filled with depth, humor, and a swoon worth romance that will knock your socks off. If you're searching for a sports romance to be your next read, consider giving Kiss To Defy the one-click it deserves!
July 14, 2021
2.5/3⭐️
Usualmente cuando doy 2.5/3 estrellas suelo poner 3 pero esta vez fue como que no me pude definir porque al primer libro de esta serie le di 3 estrellas y este kiss to defy para mi no fue algo similar al primero.
Me paso que me aburrio bastante, no es que la historia l los personajes no esten buenos, si no que siento que le falto una vueltita mas de tuerca a todo el libro… como que quedo sin significado.
Ame que ella sea una figure skater y el un hockey player, y me encanto que el libro se enfocara tanto en eso. También ame la relación de Rei con Jade y Grace, siento que son altos personajes que voy a amar conocer.
Me encanto Zane, ya me intrigaba de antes, perooooo como que me quedo flojo….. no se porque, es como que tengo sentimientos encontrados con esta historia.
Como que no le encontre la vuelta y me aburri bastante a lo largo de la lectura.
En fin, es un buen libro con buen argumento y sigue una buena serie pero siento que no estuvo al alcance de los dis anteriores…..espero igual a leer el libro de Grace, no pienso abandonar Blairwood U aun!
Usualmente cuando doy 2.5/3 estrellas suelo poner 3 pero esta vez fue como que no me pude definir porque al primer libro de esta serie le di 3 estrellas y este kiss to defy para mi no fue algo similar al primero.
Me paso que me aburrio bastante, no es que la historia l los personajes no esten buenos, si no que siento que le falto una vueltita mas de tuerca a todo el libro… como que quedo sin significado.
Ame que ella sea una figure skater y el un hockey player, y me encanto que el libro se enfocara tanto en eso. También ame la relación de Rei con Jade y Grace, siento que son altos personajes que voy a amar conocer.
Me encanto Zane, ya me intrigaba de antes, perooooo como que me quedo flojo….. no se porque, es como que tengo sentimientos encontrados con esta historia.
Como que no le encontre la vuelta y me aburri bastante a lo largo de la lectura.
En fin, es un buen libro con buen argumento y sigue una buena serie pero siento que no estuvo al alcance de los dis anteriores…..espero igual a leer el libro de Grace, no pienso abandonar Blairwood U aun!
July 1, 2021
This series keeps getting better and better! The relationships in the world are so heartwarming and so wonderful that they are what every one dreams about. Anna B Doe has a way with words that captivates the emotion these characters are feeling and expressing.
In this book we get to learn more about Zane and meet Rei. Their first meeting is instant fire. The angst between them is real is its definitely a back and forth between them. Rei is a strong willed and all around a kind human being. She will do anything for the ones she cares about. Zane definitely has some hard struggles he went through and is currently going through. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders. You get to learn a lot about him in this book and to get more of his background to put together the pieces of his broodiness. I really enjoyed these two together. It was clear from the beginning that they had something brewing between them. I enjoyed how Doe wrote about the hard topics of everyday life and how well she showed the reality of the world.
I definitely enjoyed this book. This book brings out great emotion and gives you some great feels. I highly recommend this book for others as well as the entire series. This is a feel good series, with wonderful characters, that always has you wanting more!
In this book we get to learn more about Zane and meet Rei. Their first meeting is instant fire. The angst between them is real is its definitely a back and forth between them. Rei is a strong willed and all around a kind human being. She will do anything for the ones she cares about. Zane definitely has some hard struggles he went through and is currently going through. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders. You get to learn a lot about him in this book and to get more of his background to put together the pieces of his broodiness. I really enjoyed these two together. It was clear from the beginning that they had something brewing between them. I enjoyed how Doe wrote about the hard topics of everyday life and how well she showed the reality of the world.
I definitely enjoyed this book. This book brings out great emotion and gives you some great feels. I highly recommend this book for others as well as the entire series. This is a feel good series, with wonderful characters, that always has you wanting more!
September 13, 2021
3.5 stars
Rei and Zane served angst and tension, Anna knows to write emotional books. This series is really great, I can't wait to read next one especially Maddox one.
Rei and Zane served angst and tension, Anna knows to write emotional books. This series is really great, I can't wait to read next one especially Maddox one.
July 7, 2021
Rei, a figure skater par excellence, on her way to the top.
Zane, broody hockey player, from the wrong side of the tracks.
The first meeting of these two is intense, and the next meetings are not better. But they slowly warm up to each other, and the ice slowly begins to melt. And it’s getting hot and sizzling.
Can they both defy the odds against them?
Great story in this series, which I binged through just recently, because I was late to the party! And I do not regret a single thing. So worth it.
Anna B Doe is hitting you in all the feelings. There’s a little bit of drama, a lot of sass, so much determination, and love. I absolutely loved Rei & Zane. I can’t wait to read more in this series, but also from this author!
I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review
Zane, broody hockey player, from the wrong side of the tracks.
The first meeting of these two is intense, and the next meetings are not better. But they slowly warm up to each other, and the ice slowly begins to melt. And it’s getting hot and sizzling.
Can they both defy the odds against them?
Great story in this series, which I binged through just recently, because I was late to the party! And I do not regret a single thing. So worth it.
Anna B Doe is hitting you in all the feelings. There’s a little bit of drama, a lot of sass, so much determination, and love. I absolutely loved Rei & Zane. I can’t wait to read more in this series, but also from this author!
I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review
July 8, 2021
Oh my…wow.
This book had my attention from the get go. From beginning to end I was completely obsessed with everything Rei and Zane.
These two characters are opposites in every way but that just makes them work. Their banter, playfulness and just everything was spot on, even their heart aches.
Zane is a silent brooding type of guy. He comes from a past that he’d like to keep hidden from everyone who doesn’t already know. So once he sets his eyes upon the stranger that almost ran him over he feels things he doesn’t like.
Rei has always known she would be a skater, knowing her mom was one of the best she knew she wanted to follow in her footsteps. Having lived her life always near a rink, Rei has become one of the best and most talented figure skaters but deep down there’s something missing and so she heads to collage for the collage experience never expecting the experience she actually gets.
From their first meet you just knew you’d be rooting for them. They make each other better but life always has a way making things harder and damn, I’m just going to say my heart hurt, a lot when it hits a certain part of the book.
I love these two so much that the fact they go through what they do and they feel the way they feel makes me feel so extremely sad, I hated it but it was necessary for them to go through.
This is my first read from this author and damn, now I need to read the rest of this series and get the story on the other two who came before Zane.
Anna truly brought her characters to life and had you invested in their lives and everything that happens. Even the secondary characters were amazing and I can’t wait to find out more about them.
Absolutely amazing book.
A Kiss to Defy is a fun and slightly heartbreaking slow burn collage sports romance with a hint in angsty. A beautiful and a must read story.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
This book had my attention from the get go. From beginning to end I was completely obsessed with everything Rei and Zane.
These two characters are opposites in every way but that just makes them work. Their banter, playfulness and just everything was spot on, even their heart aches.
Zane is a silent brooding type of guy. He comes from a past that he’d like to keep hidden from everyone who doesn’t already know. So once he sets his eyes upon the stranger that almost ran him over he feels things he doesn’t like.
Rei has always known she would be a skater, knowing her mom was one of the best she knew she wanted to follow in her footsteps. Having lived her life always near a rink, Rei has become one of the best and most talented figure skaters but deep down there’s something missing and so she heads to collage for the collage experience never expecting the experience she actually gets.
From their first meet you just knew you’d be rooting for them. They make each other better but life always has a way making things harder and damn, I’m just going to say my heart hurt, a lot when it hits a certain part of the book.
I love these two so much that the fact they go through what they do and they feel the way they feel makes me feel so extremely sad, I hated it but it was necessary for them to go through.
This is my first read from this author and damn, now I need to read the rest of this series and get the story on the other two who came before Zane.
Anna truly brought her characters to life and had you invested in their lives and everything that happens. Even the secondary characters were amazing and I can’t wait to find out more about them.
Absolutely amazing book.
A Kiss to Defy is a fun and slightly heartbreaking slow burn collage sports romance with a hint in angsty. A beautiful and a must read story.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
July 8, 2021
My Rating: 4 stars!
**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**
Another amaaaaazing addition to the totally addictive college romance series; Blairwood University by Anna! 🙌
Right from the very beginning this story had me engaged with that zinger of an opening scene between Rei and Zane… 🔥 *phew!*
If you adore sports romances, specifically hockey romances — this series is a must read. You can technically read each one as standalone books, but as someone who’s read them all, I can tell you now, you’ll want to read them in release order. The world-building from the first book sets the atmosphere not only within Blairwood, but amongst the friends, and from there it’s an ever-expanding world as you get to know more and more about each character in length through the books that follow.
Anna has kept it consistent with another character-driven story with well-paced storytelling as it delves into two opposite characters who find themselves having more in common than they first realized. The dual points of view was a perfect choice in sharing their story because you get in-depth insights into their relationship and compare where their heads are at on certain situations. Whilst Anna has already introduced some multicultural diversity when she first introduced these friends in the first book— Kiss To Defy is the first amongst them with leading characters who are POC (person/people of colour).
Although, both the hero and heroine are of colour, their different multicultural backgrounds alone wasn’t necessarily the biggest factor that was in the forefront of the story. If anything, it was mentioned more in passing as their overall social standing was more so the main obstacle in their budding relationship.
I connected with Rei fairly easily just from the description of her appearance alone. 😅 As a fellow Asian and a shorty to boot, Rei simply felt like someone I could relate and be friends with in real life. As the story progresses, you quickly discover with her personality she’s quite a likable character as well. She’s a person who’s ambitious yet yearns for some work/life balance by choosing to divide her time from skating with school and making friendships.
What I love about the books in this series is the dynamics amongst the friends, and this one was no different. It gave it a lot more dimension having all these secondary characters have some participation in creating layers within the story no matter how minor. In my opinion, Zane’s and Rei’s story was somewhat more sombre in comparison to all the previous couples that I found the few lighthearted moments throughout were refreshing breaks from the weighty issues that both Zane and Rei were dealing with. There’s just enough lightness and comic relief from keeping their story going too serious.
Please note this story contains some sensitive subject matter that may be triggering for some readers. It delves into addiction, domestic abuse, and violence. Recommended for readers of age only.
I do have to point out that whilst I found the majority of the friends in this story very agreeable, I did find one in particular I was not a fan of. I found them to be a little pushy, rude, in-your-face, and at times disrespectful of others’ feelings. I won’t be naming names for a couple of reasons, one being that this is a no spoiler review, and two, this particular character has a book in the works (if sources are correct), so I’m hoping that my annoyance of said character doesn’t go any further than this book and that in my eyes they’ll have some redeeming qualities. 🙏
The entire book was an enjoyable read, but I would’ve preferred more build-up not only in their relationship but in the overall storyline too. Yes, there’s quite a slow burn romance going that kept me on the edge of my seat, but the overall story felt like it lacked a little more oomph that the other books in the series had in spades. I found certain plots started out well enough but fizzled by the end leaving it a little anti-climatic, whilst other plots felt like they came out of nowhere that it left me a little taken aback.
I did however liked seeing no game-playing between Rei and Zane. They both knew they had a bond and it felt very genuine seeing them whenever they were together.
As I said at the very beginning, this is another great addition to the series. I think it’s a must read for those who have come to love the series and invested in seeing each character get their own story. I admit Zane wasn’t on my radar as much as some of the other guys, but after having read Kiss To Defy, I have a newfound respect for him. Despite his difficult upbringing, it’s never discouraged him from wanting a better life for himself and willing to work hard for it. He’s also quite a considerate gentleman— which he proves time and time again with Rei. 😊
What I also enjoyed about this story besides the slow burn romance between the two, is the vivid feature of both Rei’s and Zane’s perspective sports. Especially Rei’s figure skating. Anna has managed to put a lot of detail and sport “lingo” that wasn’t overly done or overbearing to read about. On the contrary, I found it all fascinating and at times felt like I was actually learning a thing or two about each sport. Both Zane’s passion for ice hockey, and Rei’s ambition in her figure skating career were evident and figuratively oozed out of the pages. Right along with the unwavering support they had for one another in achieving their goals.
Their romance was far from easy but it was sweet and in the end triumphant. What started out as a misunderstanding between the two ended up being such a solid relationship. They might have had differences, but Rei and Zane are undoubtedly perfect for one another. Anna has written another swoon-worthy couple whom I can look forward to seeing make appearances in future books.
This one in particular had a lot of elements and tropes included. If you like any and all in your romance reads, then I recommend you give this one a try.
- Opposites Attract
- Hate to Love
- Diverse Characters
- Contemporary Romance
- College Romance
- Slow Burn
- New Adult
- Sports Romance
I may have had a couple of hang-ups with some plotlines and certain characters in this book, but I can’t deny Anna’s writing style is effortless to follow and gets you invested in fairly early on. I love the consistency in effort and detail Anna puts into each of her books in this series that it’s hard not to want the next one right away.
💻 Full review on my blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...
**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**
Another amaaaaazing addition to the totally addictive college romance series; Blairwood University by Anna! 🙌
Right from the very beginning this story had me engaged with that zinger of an opening scene between Rei and Zane… 🔥 *phew!*
If you adore sports romances, specifically hockey romances — this series is a must read. You can technically read each one as standalone books, but as someone who’s read them all, I can tell you now, you’ll want to read them in release order. The world-building from the first book sets the atmosphere not only within Blairwood, but amongst the friends, and from there it’s an ever-expanding world as you get to know more and more about each character in length through the books that follow.
Anna has kept it consistent with another character-driven story with well-paced storytelling as it delves into two opposite characters who find themselves having more in common than they first realized. The dual points of view was a perfect choice in sharing their story because you get in-depth insights into their relationship and compare where their heads are at on certain situations. Whilst Anna has already introduced some multicultural diversity when she first introduced these friends in the first book— Kiss To Defy is the first amongst them with leading characters who are POC (person/people of colour).
Although, both the hero and heroine are of colour, their different multicultural backgrounds alone wasn’t necessarily the biggest factor that was in the forefront of the story. If anything, it was mentioned more in passing as their overall social standing was more so the main obstacle in their budding relationship.
I connected with Rei fairly easily just from the description of her appearance alone. 😅 As a fellow Asian and a shorty to boot, Rei simply felt like someone I could relate and be friends with in real life. As the story progresses, you quickly discover with her personality she’s quite a likable character as well. She’s a person who’s ambitious yet yearns for some work/life balance by choosing to divide her time from skating with school and making friendships.
What I love about the books in this series is the dynamics amongst the friends, and this one was no different. It gave it a lot more dimension having all these secondary characters have some participation in creating layers within the story no matter how minor. In my opinion, Zane’s and Rei’s story was somewhat more sombre in comparison to all the previous couples that I found the few lighthearted moments throughout were refreshing breaks from the weighty issues that both Zane and Rei were dealing with. There’s just enough lightness and comic relief from keeping their story going too serious.
Please note this story contains some sensitive subject matter that may be triggering for some readers. It delves into addiction, domestic abuse, and violence. Recommended for readers of age only.
I do have to point out that whilst I found the majority of the friends in this story very agreeable, I did find one in particular I was not a fan of. I found them to be a little pushy, rude, in-your-face, and at times disrespectful of others’ feelings. I won’t be naming names for a couple of reasons, one being that this is a no spoiler review, and two, this particular character has a book in the works (if sources are correct), so I’m hoping that my annoyance of said character doesn’t go any further than this book and that in my eyes they’ll have some redeeming qualities. 🙏
The entire book was an enjoyable read, but I would’ve preferred more build-up not only in their relationship but in the overall storyline too. Yes, there’s quite a slow burn romance going that kept me on the edge of my seat, but the overall story felt like it lacked a little more oomph that the other books in the series had in spades. I found certain plots started out well enough but fizzled by the end leaving it a little anti-climatic, whilst other plots felt like they came out of nowhere that it left me a little taken aback.
I did however liked seeing no game-playing between Rei and Zane. They both knew they had a bond and it felt very genuine seeing them whenever they were together.
As I said at the very beginning, this is another great addition to the series. I think it’s a must read for those who have come to love the series and invested in seeing each character get their own story. I admit Zane wasn’t on my radar as much as some of the other guys, but after having read Kiss To Defy, I have a newfound respect for him. Despite his difficult upbringing, it’s never discouraged him from wanting a better life for himself and willing to work hard for it. He’s also quite a considerate gentleman— which he proves time and time again with Rei. 😊
What I also enjoyed about this story besides the slow burn romance between the two, is the vivid feature of both Rei’s and Zane’s perspective sports. Especially Rei’s figure skating. Anna has managed to put a lot of detail and sport “lingo” that wasn’t overly done or overbearing to read about. On the contrary, I found it all fascinating and at times felt like I was actually learning a thing or two about each sport. Both Zane’s passion for ice hockey, and Rei’s ambition in her figure skating career were evident and figuratively oozed out of the pages. Right along with the unwavering support they had for one another in achieving their goals.
Their romance was far from easy but it was sweet and in the end triumphant. What started out as a misunderstanding between the two ended up being such a solid relationship. They might have had differences, but Rei and Zane are undoubtedly perfect for one another. Anna has written another swoon-worthy couple whom I can look forward to seeing make appearances in future books.
This one in particular had a lot of elements and tropes included. If you like any and all in your romance reads, then I recommend you give this one a try.
- Opposites Attract
- Hate to Love
- Diverse Characters
- Contemporary Romance
- College Romance
- Slow Burn
- New Adult
- Sports Romance
I may have had a couple of hang-ups with some plotlines and certain characters in this book, but I can’t deny Anna’s writing style is effortless to follow and gets you invested in fairly early on. I love the consistency in effort and detail Anna puts into each of her books in this series that it’s hard not to want the next one right away.
💻 Full review on my blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...
July 7, 2021
I loved the ice skating part of this story. I liked the banter between her friends and Rei, also between the guys and Zane.
I felt some parts were out of the blue. Sometimes I didn't know why the characters acted the way they did or how quickly they changed their attitude. I was enjoying the beginning when they hated each other and out of nowhere they made up. Also, I didn't like the jealousy and the "I make choices for your own good" like hey she can make her own choices, let her decide.
Where's the groveling? I needed it.
I felt some parts were out of the blue. Sometimes I didn't know why the characters acted the way they did or how quickly they changed their attitude. I was enjoying the beginning when they hated each other and out of nowhere they made up. Also, I didn't like the jealousy and the "I make choices for your own good" like hey she can make her own choices, let her decide.
Where's the groveling? I needed it.
November 30, 2021
Dopo qualche mese di attesa finalmente si torna a Boston nella famosa Blairwood University, con “Un bacio per sfidarti” terzo volume della omonima serie, di Anna B. Doe incentrato stavolta sulle avventure di Rei e Zane che, reggetevi forte, inizia letteralmente col “botto”.
“Il pattinaggio artistico fa parte di me da prima che io nascessi. C’è una foto di me in ospedale, subito dopo la mia nascita, con un minuscolo paio di pattini in miniatura, fatti apposta per me. Il pattinaggio non è solo parte della mia eredità, fa parte anche di me. Mi rende la persona che sono”
Rei Mitchell-Nagasaki è un vero talento del pattinaggio artistico. Non ha mai conosciuto sua madre, una campionessa olimpica nella stessa disciplina, ma Rei è certa che la sua passione viscerale per il pattinaggio provenga dalla sua anima che la segue e la guida in ogni momento della sua vita
Rei ha dedicato tutta la vita a questa grande passione, rinunciando a tutto: ha sempre studiato a casa, non ha mai avuto tempo per costruirsi delle amicizie, non ha mai condiviso momenti di spensieratezza che non fossero legati al pattinaggio. In uno dei momenti più floridi per la sua carriera professionale, decide che è arrivato il momento di crescere anche umanamente e dopo una battaglia estenuante, convince suo padre a concederle la possibilità di frequentare il college con la promessa di non trascurare gli allenamenti che spera la porteranno alla qualificazione per le prossime Olimpiadi invernali.
Il suo è un personaggio con un carattere determinato che sa mettere in risalto la passione per uno sport evidenziando tutti i sacrifici che un’atleta è disposta a fare pur di raggiungere il suo sogno più grande. Le rinunce a cui è costretta non le sono mai pesate, fanno parte del suo stile di vita, le accetta e le asseconda con determinazione e costanza, rendendo evidente quanto il pattinaggio sia per lei vitale. Quando danza sul ghiaccio, infatti, il mondo si ferma. La sua arte viene raffigurata attraverso movimenti fluidi e armoniosi che raccontano una storia, sfidando la gravità in volo.
Il suo personaggio interpreta in generale la vita reale di molti atleti come lei, costellata da tantissime rinunce che sono chiamati a fare per raggiungere il successo a livello agonistico, eliminando tutte le distrazioni emotive per restare concentrati solo sull’obiettivo finale.
Ma anche se il suo stile di vita non le pesa, Rei sente il bisogno di capire cosa la fa sentire ancora così incompleta, e decide così di iscriversi al college dove inizia a capire il valore delle amicizie, l’importanza di avere qualcuno con cui condividere successi e delusioni, scambiare opinioni e divertirsi. Solo in questo modo i colori della sua vita iniziano ad assumere sfumature diverse, regalandole la completezza di cui aveva bisogno.
Tra le tante persone che il college le farà conoscere, Rei incontra Zane, che come lei vive sulle piste di pattinaggio.
“Quando sei cresciuto nella parte sbagliata della città, l’istinto è il tuo unico mezzo di sopravvivenza; quindi, lo affini e impari a fidarti di lui, perché la tua vita dipende da questo”
Anche per Zane, il ghiaccio rappresenta il suo riscatto da una vita sbagliata che lo ha scelto per una seconda possibilità. Opportunità che Zane sfrutta in modo attento e responsabile. È un ragazzo, infatti, che ha trovato la sua strada dopo un’adolescenza difficile, lottando con tutto sé stesso per un futuro diverso. Zane è un amico sincero su cui fare sempre affidamento, anche se maschera tutte le sue qualità caratteriali dietro un atteggiamento burbero e defilato, e quando si scontra con la nuova arrivata, pensa di non avere nulla in comune con quella ragazza viziata che proviene da un mondo così diverso dal suo, fino a quando osservandola meglio, inizia ad ammirarla e decidere di aprirsi raccontandole la sua storia.
“Questa è la differenza tra noi due Pixie. Io sto sempre nell’ombra, in bilico tra il bene e il male. E tu? Tu sei destinata a stare sotto i riflettori”
Il susseguirsi delle pagine, lentamente rivela le vere personalità di questi due protagonisti che la passione per lo sport unirà prima in senso artistico e professionale e poi con la scoperta di un sentimento che li travolge. Il rapporto tra Rei e Zane sarà inizialmente contrastante e ostacolato dalle differenze sociali che li dividono. Ma quando la razionalità cederà spazio alle emozioni, tutto si trasforma e la storia diventa, se possibile, ancor più coinvolgente. Zane affiancherà Rei aiutandola nel raggiungimento delle qualificazioni per le Olimpiadi e la loro unione diventerà sempre più forte e indistruttibile, significando come la forza di volontà può portare ad una resistenza fisica impensabile e come l’amore funge da incentivo e non da ostacolo in un mondo agonistico.
Un bacio per sfidarti è un libro in cui lo sport è il protagonista assoluto. Tutto l’intreccio della trama ruota intorno al mondo dell’Hockey e del pattinaggio artistico su ghiaccio, descrivendone le peculiarità tecniche e le emozioni che suscitano a chi li pratica. È davvero incredibile come questa storia abbia saputo coinvolgermi attraverso la descrizione dei passaggi tecnici che mi hanno regalato anche una conoscenza che prima non avevo. Si acquistano informazioni così dettagliate di queste due discipline sportive arrivando a tifare i protagonisti, gioendo per le loro vittorie e patendo nelle loro sconfitte.
Continua su: https://www.vanitiromancebook.com/boo...
“Il pattinaggio artistico fa parte di me da prima che io nascessi. C’è una foto di me in ospedale, subito dopo la mia nascita, con un minuscolo paio di pattini in miniatura, fatti apposta per me. Il pattinaggio non è solo parte della mia eredità, fa parte anche di me. Mi rende la persona che sono”
Rei Mitchell-Nagasaki è un vero talento del pattinaggio artistico. Non ha mai conosciuto sua madre, una campionessa olimpica nella stessa disciplina, ma Rei è certa che la sua passione viscerale per il pattinaggio provenga dalla sua anima che la segue e la guida in ogni momento della sua vita
Rei ha dedicato tutta la vita a questa grande passione, rinunciando a tutto: ha sempre studiato a casa, non ha mai avuto tempo per costruirsi delle amicizie, non ha mai condiviso momenti di spensieratezza che non fossero legati al pattinaggio. In uno dei momenti più floridi per la sua carriera professionale, decide che è arrivato il momento di crescere anche umanamente e dopo una battaglia estenuante, convince suo padre a concederle la possibilità di frequentare il college con la promessa di non trascurare gli allenamenti che spera la porteranno alla qualificazione per le prossime Olimpiadi invernali.
Il suo è un personaggio con un carattere determinato che sa mettere in risalto la passione per uno sport evidenziando tutti i sacrifici che un’atleta è disposta a fare pur di raggiungere il suo sogno più grande. Le rinunce a cui è costretta non le sono mai pesate, fanno parte del suo stile di vita, le accetta e le asseconda con determinazione e costanza, rendendo evidente quanto il pattinaggio sia per lei vitale. Quando danza sul ghiaccio, infatti, il mondo si ferma. La sua arte viene raffigurata attraverso movimenti fluidi e armoniosi che raccontano una storia, sfidando la gravità in volo.
Il suo personaggio interpreta in generale la vita reale di molti atleti come lei, costellata da tantissime rinunce che sono chiamati a fare per raggiungere il successo a livello agonistico, eliminando tutte le distrazioni emotive per restare concentrati solo sull’obiettivo finale.
Ma anche se il suo stile di vita non le pesa, Rei sente il bisogno di capire cosa la fa sentire ancora così incompleta, e decide così di iscriversi al college dove inizia a capire il valore delle amicizie, l’importanza di avere qualcuno con cui condividere successi e delusioni, scambiare opinioni e divertirsi. Solo in questo modo i colori della sua vita iniziano ad assumere sfumature diverse, regalandole la completezza di cui aveva bisogno.
Tra le tante persone che il college le farà conoscere, Rei incontra Zane, che come lei vive sulle piste di pattinaggio.
“Quando sei cresciuto nella parte sbagliata della città, l’istinto è il tuo unico mezzo di sopravvivenza; quindi, lo affini e impari a fidarti di lui, perché la tua vita dipende da questo”
Anche per Zane, il ghiaccio rappresenta il suo riscatto da una vita sbagliata che lo ha scelto per una seconda possibilità. Opportunità che Zane sfrutta in modo attento e responsabile. È un ragazzo, infatti, che ha trovato la sua strada dopo un’adolescenza difficile, lottando con tutto sé stesso per un futuro diverso. Zane è un amico sincero su cui fare sempre affidamento, anche se maschera tutte le sue qualità caratteriali dietro un atteggiamento burbero e defilato, e quando si scontra con la nuova arrivata, pensa di non avere nulla in comune con quella ragazza viziata che proviene da un mondo così diverso dal suo, fino a quando osservandola meglio, inizia ad ammirarla e decidere di aprirsi raccontandole la sua storia.
“Questa è la differenza tra noi due Pixie. Io sto sempre nell’ombra, in bilico tra il bene e il male. E tu? Tu sei destinata a stare sotto i riflettori”
Il susseguirsi delle pagine, lentamente rivela le vere personalità di questi due protagonisti che la passione per lo sport unirà prima in senso artistico e professionale e poi con la scoperta di un sentimento che li travolge. Il rapporto tra Rei e Zane sarà inizialmente contrastante e ostacolato dalle differenze sociali che li dividono. Ma quando la razionalità cederà spazio alle emozioni, tutto si trasforma e la storia diventa, se possibile, ancor più coinvolgente. Zane affiancherà Rei aiutandola nel raggiungimento delle qualificazioni per le Olimpiadi e la loro unione diventerà sempre più forte e indistruttibile, significando come la forza di volontà può portare ad una resistenza fisica impensabile e come l’amore funge da incentivo e non da ostacolo in un mondo agonistico.
Un bacio per sfidarti è un libro in cui lo sport è il protagonista assoluto. Tutto l’intreccio della trama ruota intorno al mondo dell’Hockey e del pattinaggio artistico su ghiaccio, descrivendone le peculiarità tecniche e le emozioni che suscitano a chi li pratica. È davvero incredibile come questa storia abbia saputo coinvolgermi attraverso la descrizione dei passaggi tecnici che mi hanno regalato anche una conoscenza che prima non avevo. Si acquistano informazioni così dettagliate di queste due discipline sportive arrivando a tifare i protagonisti, gioendo per le loro vittorie e patendo nelle loro sconfitte.
Continua su: https://www.vanitiromancebook.com/boo...
March 16, 2022
Vanilla_91 - per RFS
.
Un bacio per sfidarti è il terzo libro della serie Blairwood University.
Trattandosi di storie autoconclusive, vi invito caldamente a fare la conoscenza di Zane e Rei, anche se non avete letto i precedenti romanzi.
Per entrambi i nostri protagonisti il ghiaccio e i pattini sono molto più che una passione Rei, sin da bambina, si sottopone a lunghi allenamenti giornalieri per raggiungere l’obiettivo della qualificazione olimpica; un progetto così grande richiede, prevedibilmente, tanta fatica, rinunce e sacrifici, ed è proprio in nome di tutte le esperienze mancate che la ragazza decide di iscriversi al collage per provare un briciolo di normalità.
Per Zane l’hockey non è solo la prospettiva di una carriera futura, per lui le vittorie conquistate sul ghiaccio hanno il sapore di un riscatto sociale; quando gioca sente di allontanarsi sempre più dallo stereotipo che si porta dietro, cioè quello di un ragazzo di colore cresciuto senza famiglia in un quartiere difficile e quindi destinato a diventare un criminale. Riuscire bene in qualcosa significa dimostrare al mondo (e a se stesso) di essere molto più di ciò che gli altri pensano.
Viste le premesse, Rei e Zane sono personaggi da cui mi aspettavo molto, e non mi hanno affatto delusa. Ci troviamo di fronte a personalità decise, con tante sfaccettature e tanto da poter raccontare. In questo caso la parte più forte e determinata è la protagonista femminile, che ho trovato ben incentrata e soprattutto molto coerente e non piagnona.
Lo sport, in tutta la storia, ha una rilevanza marcata e non viene mai accantonato, anzi spesso è ben sfruttato dall’autrice per creare dinamiche e situazioni. Una scelta che ho apprezzato davvero molto, visto il genere del romanzo, è il fatto che si faccia riferimento comunque a livelli di competizione molto elevati.
La penna di Anna B.Doe racconta con fluidità la nascita e la crescita del sentimento tra i due giovani, che incorrerà in non pochi ostacoli tra questioni di razza e differenze sociali.
L’amore di Zane e Rei mi ha coinvolto, specialmente per la sua totalità: sono loro due contro il mondo. Finché possono stare insieme sono indifferenti riguardo ai pregiudizi, ai pensieri delle persone e anche delle famiglie. Chi non vorrebbe avere al proprio fianco una persona pronta a sfidare il mondo per proteggere e preservare un sentimento condiviso?
Adoro la capacità dell’autrice di riuscire a emergere e a distinguersi, l’abilità di riuscire a trasmettere sempre un’impronta originale e diversa ai suoi romanzi, pur mantenendosi nei canoni di un genere che negli ultimi anni è davvero molto calcato.
La trama che si apre lentamente, senza frivolezze o cliché scontati, mi ha coinvolto in maniera esagerata: un attimo prima ridevo per i battibecchi tra i due, quello dopo ero completamente risucchiata dal sentimento che stava sbocciando e pronta a inveire contro chi osava mettere i bastoni tra le ruote all’amore di Zane e Rei.
Per tutti questi motivi, come potrei non consigliarvi questa lettura?
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Un bacio per sfidarti è il terzo libro della serie Blairwood University.
Trattandosi di storie autoconclusive, vi invito caldamente a fare la conoscenza di Zane e Rei, anche se non avete letto i precedenti romanzi.
Per entrambi i nostri protagonisti il ghiaccio e i pattini sono molto più che una passione Rei, sin da bambina, si sottopone a lunghi allenamenti giornalieri per raggiungere l’obiettivo della qualificazione olimpica; un progetto così grande richiede, prevedibilmente, tanta fatica, rinunce e sacrifici, ed è proprio in nome di tutte le esperienze mancate che la ragazza decide di iscriversi al collage per provare un briciolo di normalità.
Per Zane l’hockey non è solo la prospettiva di una carriera futura, per lui le vittorie conquistate sul ghiaccio hanno il sapore di un riscatto sociale; quando gioca sente di allontanarsi sempre più dallo stereotipo che si porta dietro, cioè quello di un ragazzo di colore cresciuto senza famiglia in un quartiere difficile e quindi destinato a diventare un criminale. Riuscire bene in qualcosa significa dimostrare al mondo (e a se stesso) di essere molto più di ciò che gli altri pensano.
Viste le premesse, Rei e Zane sono personaggi da cui mi aspettavo molto, e non mi hanno affatto delusa. Ci troviamo di fronte a personalità decise, con tante sfaccettature e tanto da poter raccontare. In questo caso la parte più forte e determinata è la protagonista femminile, che ho trovato ben incentrata e soprattutto molto coerente e non piagnona.
Lo sport, in tutta la storia, ha una rilevanza marcata e non viene mai accantonato, anzi spesso è ben sfruttato dall’autrice per creare dinamiche e situazioni. Una scelta che ho apprezzato davvero molto, visto il genere del romanzo, è il fatto che si faccia riferimento comunque a livelli di competizione molto elevati.
La penna di Anna B.Doe racconta con fluidità la nascita e la crescita del sentimento tra i due giovani, che incorrerà in non pochi ostacoli tra questioni di razza e differenze sociali.
L’amore di Zane e Rei mi ha coinvolto, specialmente per la sua totalità: sono loro due contro il mondo. Finché possono stare insieme sono indifferenti riguardo ai pregiudizi, ai pensieri delle persone e anche delle famiglie. Chi non vorrebbe avere al proprio fianco una persona pronta a sfidare il mondo per proteggere e preservare un sentimento condiviso?
Adoro la capacità dell’autrice di riuscire a emergere e a distinguersi, l’abilità di riuscire a trasmettere sempre un’impronta originale e diversa ai suoi romanzi, pur mantenendosi nei canoni di un genere che negli ultimi anni è davvero molto calcato.
La trama che si apre lentamente, senza frivolezze o cliché scontati, mi ha coinvolto in maniera esagerata: un attimo prima ridevo per i battibecchi tra i due, quello dopo ero completamente risucchiata dal sentimento che stava sbocciando e pronta a inveire contro chi osava mettere i bastoni tra le ruote all’amore di Zane e Rei.
Per tutti questi motivi, come potrei non consigliarvi questa lettura?
July 8, 2021
This sports romance was such a great read between heavy dark romances, I loved Rei and Zane, they make an amazing couple. Their relationship development was so good, the worldbuilding in the story is great and I simply couldn't get enough of them. I love figure skating and reading about that sport is a bit rare nowadays as they usually go with American Football, Hockey, Basketball, or alike, also the multicultural element makes it more real and I love that the author took that element for this sport. My heart had a great ride with this story.
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Blog |BookBub | Amazon |Audible |Instagram |Twitter |Facebook |TikTok |YouTube |Pinterest |Tumblr |Bookstore
July 8, 2021
Yay!!!! We finally get to return to the incredible world of Blairwood University!
I read this entire story in one day, that’s how excited I was to have the next instalment in this fabulous series. I seriously couldn’t put it down! ⛸👩🏻💜🧑🏾🦱🏒
The dynamic between main characters, Rei and Zane, leaves you wanting more after (and during) every chapter. 😩💜 Their soul-wrenching heartache, passionate and emotional romance, and (eventual) hope-and-happiness-filled devotion to each other was truly breathtaking. The obstacles the two characters faced along the way just made their happy ending all the sweeter, not to mention the fact that they came out all the more strengthened and bonded because of them. You can easily experience every intense moment and emotion in each word that Anna writes.
Anna flawlessly developed and depicted both Rei and Zane using a perfect balance of strengths and weaknesses, struggles and triumphs, and heartaches and hopes. She gave them relatable, real life emotions, pains, and feelings. A truly phenomenal job of making these characters come alive on the page! But this is Anna B. Doe we’re talking about, so is anyone actually surprised that this book is a masterpiece?… I didn’t think so 😉😊💜
I enjoyed every word of this book and couldn’t put this story down from the second I received it. It has absolutely lived up to the utter perfection that encompasses all the other connected stories that came before it! This group of perfectly flawed and beautifully written heroes and heroines are hands down some of the best characters I’ve ever read! They are the characters I always turn back to for an emotional feel good read. They are absolute perfection! 👌🏻💜
Long story short, Anna (once again) did such a fantastic job with this novel and I cannot wait for more of her work in the future! Love, love, love this book, and love, love, love this! “Kiss to Defy” (as well as the entire series of Blairwood University novels) deserves all the stars and more! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I read this entire story in one day, that’s how excited I was to have the next instalment in this fabulous series. I seriously couldn’t put it down! ⛸👩🏻💜🧑🏾🦱🏒
The dynamic between main characters, Rei and Zane, leaves you wanting more after (and during) every chapter. 😩💜 Their soul-wrenching heartache, passionate and emotional romance, and (eventual) hope-and-happiness-filled devotion to each other was truly breathtaking. The obstacles the two characters faced along the way just made their happy ending all the sweeter, not to mention the fact that they came out all the more strengthened and bonded because of them. You can easily experience every intense moment and emotion in each word that Anna writes.
Anna flawlessly developed and depicted both Rei and Zane using a perfect balance of strengths and weaknesses, struggles and triumphs, and heartaches and hopes. She gave them relatable, real life emotions, pains, and feelings. A truly phenomenal job of making these characters come alive on the page! But this is Anna B. Doe we’re talking about, so is anyone actually surprised that this book is a masterpiece?… I didn’t think so 😉😊💜
I enjoyed every word of this book and couldn’t put this story down from the second I received it. It has absolutely lived up to the utter perfection that encompasses all the other connected stories that came before it! This group of perfectly flawed and beautifully written heroes and heroines are hands down some of the best characters I’ve ever read! They are the characters I always turn back to for an emotional feel good read. They are absolute perfection! 👌🏻💜
Long story short, Anna (once again) did such a fantastic job with this novel and I cannot wait for more of her work in the future! Love, love, love this book, and love, love, love this! “Kiss to Defy” (as well as the entire series of Blairwood University novels) deserves all the stars and more! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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