Review: The King of Black Diamonds: An Enemies to Lovers High School Sports Romance (Royals of Westlake)
When I stumbled upon The King of Black Diamonds, written by Nicole Goodin, I was instantly intrigued. The promise of a fresh start, a new country, and the iconic enemies-to-lovers trope combined with the thrilling setting of high school sports felt like a recipe for a captivating read. I eagerly dove in, not quite knowing what to expect, and emerged thoroughly enchanted by this delightful debut in the Royals of Westlake series.
The King of Black Diamonds follows Berlin Davids, a fierce new girl trying to navigate her senior year at Westlake High after moving from Australia. Right off the bat, we learn that Berlin is not one to sit quietly and let herself be pushed around—she’s got a sassy attitude and a chip on her shoulder that makes her a force to be reckoned with. Enter Cullen Carrington, the handsome captain of the school’s rugby team and the self-proclaimed “king” of the Black Diamonds. Their electric interactions crackle with tension, humor, and heart, making each chapter an entertaining ride.
What really captured me was how Goodin fleshes out her characters. Berlin is unapologetically herself, a breath of fresh air in a world where most girls might shy away from confrontation. Her strong-willed nature is a joy to read, especially in the face of Cullen’s initial arrogance. Their chemistry builds beautifully, leaving readers engaged in the rollercoaster of their evolving relationship—one full of sharp banter and undeniable tension.
The pacing of the narrative flows effortlessly; Goodin masterfully intertwines humor with deeper themes of self-identity, resilience, and personal growth. The comedic elements had me laughing out loud—Berlin’s confrontations with the popular crowd are particularly memorable. One scene where she’s dubbed “Ice” by the rugby boys perfectly encapsulates her icy demeanor while showcasing her resilience.
What I cherish most about this story is the emphasis on friendship and loyalty. Readers are introduced to a vibrant cast of secondary characters, including Berlin’s cousin Sophia and the lovable Pax, who all contribute to the story’s charm. There’s a palpable warmth among the friends that brings a delightful balance to the rivalry at the heart of the book. A quote that stood out to me, reflecting Berlin’s fierce spirit, stuck with me: "Sometimes a fire needs a little friction to ignite," which beautifully encapsulates her journey.
As I turned the last page, I was left not only wanting more but feeling as though I had just experienced the highs and lows of a very realistic teenage life. The cliffhanger had my heart racing, and I’m counting down the days until the next installment!
If you’re a fan of enemies-to-lovers tales filled with teenage drama, humor, and a dash of romance, I highly recommend diving into The King of Black Diamonds. Nicole Goodin has a knack for weaving relatable characters and engaging plotlines that resonate with readers of all ages. This book not only reignited my love for the genre but also left me eagerly anticipating what happens next in the Royals of Westlake series. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions!