Heartfelt Growth in a Charming Sports Romance
4.5 out of 5 stars
As a lover of sports romances, Out on the Ice by Kelly Farmer ticked all of my boxes and then some. From the moment I pressed play, I was drawn into a world brimming with strong, powerful women who aren’t just physically formidable but emotionally compelling as well. This cute opposites-attract story had me smiling from ear to ear.
What truly captivated me was Caro Cassidy’s transformative journey. Watching her evolve into a better version of herself—one unshackled by her upbringing and free from self-hatred—was nothing short of inspiring. It’s a growth fest from her side, and I loved every minute of it. Kelly Farmer masterfully portrays Caro’s internal struggles and triumphs, making her growth feel both genuine and heartwarming.
Amy Schwarzbach’s vibrant and out-loud personality perfectly balances Caro’s reserved nature. Their chemistry is palpable, and their interactions are filled with heart and authenticity. Letting love in and stepping out of their comfort zones becomes a beautiful dance between them, adding depth to the narrative.
The addition of Caro’s family situation, while easily the most painful part of the book, was the perfect backdrop to her. It helped explain a lot and also Farmer was able to perfectly weave it back in towards the end with some well-needed relief.
I can’t rave enough about Chelsea Stephens’ narration. She truly brought this story to life, especially nailing Caro’s transformation from a buttoned-up professional to an open, honest, and still-healing individual. Her performance added an extra layer of connection, making the listening experience all the more immersive.
If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt sports romance filled with personal growth and strong female characters, Out on the Ice is a must-listen. It’s stories like this that remind me why I adore Kelly Farmer’s work—her ability to blend honesty, warmth, and entertainment into a seamless and engaging narrative.
Book Description:
Don’t miss this tender and funny contemporary romance from debut author Kelly Farmer.
Caro Cassidy used to be a legend.
During her career, Caro was one of the best defense players in women’s hockey. These days, she keeps to herself. Her all-girls hockey camp is her life, and she hopes it’ll be her legacy. Sure, her new summer hire is charming and magnetic, but Caro keeps her work and personal life strictly separate.
Amy Schwarzbach lives life out loud.
Amy’s as bright and cheerful as her lavender hair, and she uses her high-profile position in women’s hockey to advocate for the things she believes in. Ten weeks in Chicago coaching a girls’ training camp is the perfect opportunity to mentor the next generation before she goes back to Boston.
Letting love in means putting yourself out there.
When the reticent head coach offers to help Amy get in shape for next season, her starstruck crush on Caro quickly blossoms into real chemistry. As summer comes to an end, neither of them can quite let go of this fling—but Amy can’t afford a distraction, and Caro can’t risk her relationship becoming public and jeopardizing the one thing that’s really hers.
Out on the Ice by Kelly Farmer
Narrator: Chelsea Stephens
Length: 10 hrs and 28 mins
Series: Out on the Ice #1
Published by Spotify Audiobooks on August 26th 2024
Genres: LesFic/Sapphic Fiction, Opposites Attract
Format: Audiobook
Buy from Audible
I’ve loved reading since I was little when my dad would read me Dr. Suess books. Fast-forward a little and I noticed that he was always reading on his lunch breaks at work, and I wondered why.Then, I found a book that took me to another place and time, to another feeling,another sense of “being”.It was the first book that I ever fell in love with, and I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since.
