Book Review: Power Play (The Calway Family, #1) by S. L. Stacker
When I first stumbled upon Power Play, the debut in the Calway Family series by S. L. Stacker, I felt an immediate draw—perhaps it was the alluring blend of hockey romance and family dynamics, or maybe it was the promise of a deeper narrative wrapped within the familiar tropes of second chances and secret pasts. Yet, as I turned the pages, I found myself navigating through an unexpected emotional landscape, one that didn’t quite live up to its initial promise.
The story revolves around Lo Calway, who carries a weighty secret that has haunted her for years. When Levi Buck reappears in her life, the tension builds as unresolved feelings and the ambiguity of their shared past come rushing back. Stacker presents two characters caught in a web of nostalgia and longing, yet the reunion felt rushed for me. The quick progression from a shared moment in the first chapter to an intimate encounter just a few chapters later left little room for the gradual development that I adore in romance. Instead of a slow burn, we seem to get a firecracker—a jolt of passion that, while electric, lacks the depth I seek.
Despite the novel’s tagline as a hockey romance, the sport feels more like a backdrop than a central theme. The single scene introducing Levi’s return to town through hockey lacks the vibrant camaraderie and lighthearted banter typical in this genre. I missed those delightful team dynamics that often breathe life into sports romances; it left me feeling as if the book could have easily transitioned to any other setting without losing much of its essence.
The heavy themes woven into the narrative—especially Lo’s secret—were significant, yet they were addressed too hastily to resonate fully. As a reader, I felt deprived of a richer exploration of her character and her backstory, which could have elevated the entire experience. If the emotional stakes are going to be high, they deserve the time to be unpacked with care. Instead, we got snapshots of her life and her love for her daughter, but not enough of her journey or depth.
Despite these critiques, Power Play does deliver some quick-paced moments that may appeal to readers looking for a fast romance fix. The elements of the single parent trope, an age gap, and the brother’s best friend dynamic inject some familiar excitement for fans of contemporary romances. If you’re someone who prefers immediate chemistry over the gradual build-up of emotions, this might just be your cup of tea.
In terms of writing, Stacker’s style is certainly engaging, with a conversational flow that makes it easy to get lost in the pages. While I yearned for more intricate character development, the approach is accessible and likely to capture readers who enjoy lighter, quicker reads.
In conclusion, Power Play holds promise for those who crave a swift romance filled with potential and charm. It’s a book you can devour in a sitting, perfect for fans of the aforementioned tropes. While it may not have been the sweeping love story I anticipated, it did leave me curious about where Lo and Levi might go next. Perhaps this is just the beginning of something more layered. Ultimately, I encourage you to dive into this book and form your own opinion—it may resonate with you in ways it didn’t with me. Happy reading!
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