A Touch of Romance on the Ice: Review of Boyfriend: A Moo U Hockey Romance
From the moment I stumbled upon the title Boyfriend: A Moo U Hockey Romance by Sarina Bowen, I was intrigued. The notion of a hockey player advertising himself as a rental boyfriend for Thanksgiving was not just clever; it felt like an absolute recipe for chaotic fun and heartfelt moments. As a sucker for both sports romances and tales that balance humor with heartfelt emotion, I knew I had to dive into this book.
Overview and Themes
At its core, this story revolves around Abbi and Weston. Abbi, a hardworking waitress who juggles her chaotic family dynamics, finds herself drawn to Weston, the dreamiest player on Moo U’s hockey team. When she tears off a flyer offering Weston as her Thanksgiving date, a whirlwind of pretended romance and genuine feelings ensues. The themes of family, belonging, and the complicated dance of young love are deftly woven throughout this tale.
Bowen beautifully captures the essence of college life—the awkwardness, the friendships, and, of course, the romantic escapades. The narrative offers an authentic portrayal of youth, reflecting on the struggle between wanting to have fun and the yearning for deeper connections. Watching Abbi and Weston navigate their pretend relationship only to find their real feelings brought a smile to my face and sometimes even made me nostalgic for my own college days.
Writing Style and Pacing
Bowen’s writing is fluid and engaging, drawing the reader into the moment with witty dialogue and relatable characters. The pacing felt just right, slightly slow at the beginning as the tension brewed between Abbi and Weston, then picking up momentum as their chemistry built. One review mentioned that the romance is a “slow burn,” and I couldn’t agree more—it’s that gradual igniting of passion that makes their eventual connection feel earned and true.
The delightful banter between the two is one of the book’s highlights. Moments like when they awkwardly navigate their “faked PDA” are equal parts cringeworthy and endearing, and I couldn’t help but laugh. One line that resonated with me was when Abbi mused about how complicated love can be when both parties are scared to acknowledge it. It echoes a truth many readers will relate to.
Final Thoughts
Boyfriend is a charming escapade that mixes hockey romance with a deep exploration of relationships. I appreciate how Bowen doesn’t shy away from the messy parts of growing up, illustrating the importance of friendship as the foundation for romance. If you’re someone who enjoys light-hearted reads that still tug at the emotional strings, this book is a must-read.
For fans of college romances, sports dynamics, or any reader seeking a delightful escape into the complexities of young love, Boyfriend will undoubtedly satisfy. It’s a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected encounters can lead to the deepest relationships, often wrapped up in laughter and a bit of chaos. As I closed the book, I found myself wishing for more of Abbi and Weston’s journey, a testament to how well Bowen created their world. Whether you’re a seasoned romance reader or just dipping your toes into the genre, prepare to be enchanted by this delightful tale!