Book Review: If You Love Me (Toronto Terror, #4) by Helena Hunting
As someone who adores romance intertwined with sports and personal growth, If You Love Me caught my attention like a puck flying across the ice. Helena Hunting, renowned for her skillful blend of heartwarming relationships and athletic passion, does not disappoint in this fourth installment of the Toronto Terror series. Just when I thought her characters couldn’t get any more compelling, Alexandria Forrester and Roman Hammerstein step into the spotlight, delivering a narrative that transcends the boundaries of ordinary romance.
At the heart of this story is Alexandria, the league’s first female assistant coach, navigating her past heartbreak with Roman, a veteran goaltender who’s still reeling from a missed chance three years prior. Their journey isn’t just about rekindling a relationship but also about addressing deeper themes like grief, parental abandonment, and the realities of sibling responsibilities. My heartstrings were pulled not only by Lexi and Roman’s romance but also by the touching dynamics among Lexi and her sisters, Callie and Fee. Together, they navigate their new reality after loss, showcasing the poignant ways grief can manifest differently in each person.
One of the elements I loved most was Roman’s character development. Initially portrayed as somewhat overbearing in the previous book, he transformed into a deeply caring, steady presence in Lexi’s life. It was refreshing to delve into his perspective, revealing his vulnerabilities and fears. Quotes like “You’re everything I want and can’t have. It’s killing me, Lexi” struck a powerful chord, highlighting his internal struggle and unfiltered love for Lexi. Their mutual pining, ebbed with the thrill of it being a ‘forbidden’ romance, had me on the edge of my seat, rooting for love amidst their complex lives.
Hunting’s writing style shone brightly, keeping the pacing brisk and engaging. The seamless integration of hockey dynamics into their relationship made it feel authentic — a feat not easily accomplished. Scenes where Lexi navigates her coaching could only have been penned by someone who truly understands the sport. The behind-the-scenes glimpses of the Toronto Terror team added depth and humor, particularly through engaging supporting characters like Boxer and Donnie.
What truly stood out were those heart-wrenching moments shared by Lexi and her sisters. Helena’s portrayal of their grief was beautifully written; I found myself sobbing alongside them. The moment when they finally voiced their struggles was raw, and moments like Callie’s excitement for Christmas yet tinged with sorrow made it feel all the more real. Roman’s gentle interactions with the sisters were lovely, demonstrating not just his growing love for Lexi, but his willingness to embrace her whole world.
If You Love Me is a treat for fans of hockey romance and anyone who appreciates stories rooted in emotional depth. The heartfelt themes of family, love, and redemption resonate long after the final page. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a passionate love story infused with warmth and genuine connections. With an audiobook narration that brings the characters to life, this is truly a reading experience I won’t forget.
In essence, the magic of this book lies in its ability to blend romance with the complexities of real life, making it a must-read for lovers of contemporary romance. Grab your copy on March 13, and enjoy this beautiful journey of love and self-discovery. 🏒❤️
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