Well, Spangler did it again. Here’s another romance novel that had me rooting for a HEA (see Spanish Surrender). I was tentative at first as I haven’t read a sports romance before and, although I like sports, I don’t usually enjoy reading about them. And curling? I’ll admit, my attitude towards the sport was more akin to Max’s in the beginning of the novel. I even watched a few clips of curling on YouTube so I could have some imagery before reading and ended up laughing at the game (sorry!). The reason I’m admitting this all out in the open is not to disrespect the sport or players, but to give credit to Spangler for how engaged she made me- I greatly enjoyed reading about curling. And, like Max, I’m ashamed at how laughable I found the sport after finishing the novel. Thanks to this author once again for stretching my mind.
Here’s the premises-
After Max Laurens, prominent sports journalist, makes a career ending mistake, her one chance to get some semblance of her reputation back requires her to cover the sport of curling by following America’s second best team throughout their season. Max is disappointed with her predicament and takes out her resentment on the team who she’s supposed to be building a relationship with by mocking and ridiculing the sport they sacrifice so much for. Callie Mulligan is the skipper (like a captain) in the four-women team and she is incredible (the Kobe Bryant of curling in terms of practice commitment). Callie sees Max as an opportunity for their team to get more exposure and therefore funding as the life of a professional curler doesn’t come with huge paydays- in fact what money they receive from curling doesn’t even cover their travel expenses. Tension ensues when the pair meet and Max shows blatant disrespect towards the sport and, therefore, Callie’s dreams. Lucky for Max, Callie is able to see beyond the mistakes and, well, they’re able to melt the ice just fine.
Max’s behavior in the beginning was cringe-worthy to say the least. It didn’t stop me from liking her, in fact I greatly enjoyed how real Max felt. I found her very relatable. It was nice to read about someone who made mistakes and pushed on regardless, and I really liked how when she made mistakes (especially in her relationship) she was able to take responsibility and admit it. Callie was also a brilliant character. She’s so emotionally mature and understanding. Maybe it’s because they shared just enough similarities, but Callie was able to comprehend Max in a pretty significant way. I also loved the bond between Callie and her team and how confident she was in that relationship.
The writing in this book is crisp, detailed, and ardent. I mean, sex scenes that utilized curling phrases- well done. Another highlight of the writing in this book: Spangler has confidence that her readers will pick up what she’s putting down without overtly spelling it all out. We feel Callie’s loneliness and her intense dedication to curling through dialogue and action. It isn’t spelt out or beat over our heads. The development and layout of this story is crafted in a way that absorbs and provokes at its own pace and does so compellingly.
I enjoyed learning about curling and the culture surrounding it (it reminded me of rugby culture *cough* book idea *cough* *cough*) and I even think I fully understand the sport. I’ll add playing a game to my bucket list. If you want to learn about curling in probably the hottest and most engaging way possible as well as get swept up in a winter romance then you will enjoy Fire and Ice. https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Ice
Follow Rachel Spangler on Twitter: @RachelSpangler and Instagram: @authorrachelspangler