Top positive review
5.0 out of 5 starsNew hope and possibilities rise from the ashes of tragedy - wonderful start to a new series!
Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2022
Baden's story is finally here, and it is everything that I hoped for!
It seems like the hits just keep coming for Baden. He made a split second decision to help a woman being attacked months ago, and the injuries he received left him with a long road to physical recovery and a very limited possibility of ever playing in the NHL again. His fierce determination helped him make unbelievable progress toward walking again and resuming a somewhat normal life but the lingering questions surrounding his playing abilities are a cloud hanging over him. Then the unthinkable happens a second time as tragedy strikes the Pittsburgh Titans franchise taking Baden’s best friend and numerous other members of the organization from the world. Out of that horrible accident arises a new possibility for a future that Baden never anticipated, and after talking to his friends and team owner, he decides to take the chance.
Sophie may not have physical scars from the attack, but the emotional damage inflicted upon her has caged her in a PTSD induced prison. She is terrified to leave her house most days, and she is constantly afraid that she will be attacked again. The version of herself that existed prior to the attack is nowhere to be found despite her efforts to regain her life which is about to cost her a job she enjoyed. Guilt over Baden’s injuries plagues her, but she has no idea of the level of his recovery until he shows up on her doorstep in Pittsburgh the day before he starts his new job.
I enjoyed the way their relationship evolved. Although they shared a horrible experience that tied them together, they started off forming a friendship before attraction and deeper feelings developed. Glimpses of a more confident and feistier Sophie started making appearances, and occasionally Baden would experience a moment of vulnerability that she would help him face and overcome. This story is a great intro to a new hockey team that has a multitude of challenges and obstacles to overcome, and I will definitely be eagerly waiting to see what happens next!
ARC received from author