Let me start off by saying that, for a debut, this was very, very good. I see a ton of potential in the author’s work and would not hesitate to read more. While there are some storyline issues that hold me back from rating this higher, it’s a solid, emotional read that will leave you with a lasting first impression. The plot was nothing like I expected it to be but full of heart and a heaviness that lingers throughout. My suggestion? Read the prologue, and you’ll know right away whether it’s going to be a winner for you or not – just be aware that it starts off with an emotional, triggering punch to the gut.
The story follows Valor and Bishop throughout several years of their relationship, from friends to lovers and beyond. Though Valor has always looked up to Bishop and has harbored a crush on him for longer than she can remember, it’s not until she becomes a woman that things really change for them. The 8-year gap in their ages means that their relationship has never been about the physical, but once Valor turns 18, that’s no longer the case. Whether the commitment-phobic Bishop can handle the evolution of their relationship is what will make or break them.
I loved the depth of the story and how strong Valor is. The writing itself is a little rough but very well done, and I can only see the author growing as she continues to write. Where this falters for me is the actual flow of the story. Since it spans so many years, there isn’t a lot of time spent on actually building the relationship and feeling those quiet moments that showcase why Bishop and Valor are right for each other. I just wanted it to slow down and settle into one timeline for longer so that, honestly, I would like Bishop more. He’s a professional hockey player who has spent years hooking up with puck bunnies right before Valor’s eyes, and I kind of needed him to show me why he’s worthy of such a fierce heroine. Granted, Valor was a child for some of that (yeah, the age gap was a little problematic at times too), but I needed more of the good times between these two and less angst. Jay has set up a promising new series, and I think that its got plenty of potential to be something great. I received an ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions and am voluntarily leaving a review of this sports romance.
Release Date: July 23
Monty Jay likes to describe herself as a punk rock kid, with the soul of a gypsy who has a Red Bull addiction. 
Jeeves Reads Romance 
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