Hearts on Thin Ice

by Katie Kennedy

4 out of 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Alcove Press for the ARC.

Katie Kennedy's debut novel, "Hearts on Thin Ice," is a poignant and heartfelt addition to the sports romance genre, blending emotional depth with the sweet, flirty charm of a workplace rom-com. At its core, it's a story about two people, Nick Sorensen and Alyssa Compton, who are trying to rebuild their lives — one as a professional hockey player dealing with immense grief and the other as an interior designer seeking to establish her identity and career. Kennedy does an admirable job in crafting a narrative that's both emotionally resonant and entertaining, striking a balance that's sure to captivate readers.

Nick Sorensen's journey is one of the central pillars of the story. Once a rising star in the hockey world, his life is irrevocably altered by a plane crash that claims the lives of his teammates and friends, leaving him as the sole survivor. Kennedy dives deep into Nick's psyche, exploring the guilt, isolation, and immense pressure he feels as he attempts to return to normalcy. The portrayal of his mental health struggles is both sensitive and realistic, avoiding clichés and providing an honest look at the journey of healing from immense trauma. His character arc is not just about returning to the sport he loves, but about learning to live and find joy again.

On the other side of this icy path is Alyssa Compton, an ambitious and spirited interior designer who sees Nick's apartment as a golden opportunity to prove her worth. Alyssa's character is crafted with as much care and depth as Nick's. She's not just a love interest; she's a woman with her own dreams, fears, and insecurities. Her passion for her work, coupled with her desire to create a sense of home not just for Nick but for herself, reflects a universal quest for belonging and purpose. Her interactions with Nick, marked by initial professional tension and evolving into something deeper and more personal, are a highlight of the novel.

The romance between Nick and Alyssa is built with a careful, slow-burning intensity. Kennedy takes time to develop their relationship, allowing them to move from client and contractor to friends and then lovers. Their dialogue sparkles with wit and emotion, bringing moments of levity as well as profound understanding. The push and pull of their relationship, filled with stubbornness, vulnerability, and growing trust, makes their journey towards love satisfying and believable.

Moreover, "Hearts on Thin Ice" doesn't shy away from exploring the broader implications of the characters' personal struggles. The novel delves into themes of grief, mental health, and the pressure of professional sports with a careful touch. It's evident that Kennedy has done her research, presenting these issues in a way that's respectful and insightful. The hockey backdrop provides a vibrant setting for the story, though the focus remains firmly on the characters' internal battles and growth.

Kennedy's writing style is engaging, with a knack for vivid descriptions and emotional depth. She captures the chill of the ice rink, the warmth of a well-designed home, and the rollercoaster of human emotions with equal skill. The pacing of the novel is well-measured, drawing the reader in with each chapter and building towards a satisfying conclusion.

One of the notable achievements of "Hearts on Thin Ice" is its ability to balance the sweet and the serious. The romance and chemistry between Nick and Alyssa are undeniable, filled with moments of tenderness, passion, and playful banter. Yet, the story never loses sight of the real issues at its heart. It's a testament to Kennedy's skill as a writer that she can weave these different threads into a cohesive and compelling narrative.

In conclusion, Katie Kennedy's "Hearts on Thin Ice" is a stellar debut, offering all the warmth and charm expected of a sports romance while also providing a thoughtful and touching exploration of recovery and love. The characters of Nick and Alyssa will stay with readers long after the last page, as will the message of hope and resilience that shines through their story. With its combination of emotional depth, engaging storytelling, and captivating romance, this novel is a must-read and heralds Kennedy as an exciting new voice in the genre. It earns a well-deserved four-star rating, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what Kennedy will write next.

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