Book Review: Lace ’em Up by Elise Faber
“From fake engagement to real love, Lace ’em Up brings heartwarming chemistry and playful banter to the ice.”
Summary:
Lace ’em Up by Elise Faber is a compelling start to the Bang Brothers Hockey series. This multi-author series focuses on the Bang family, featuring five brothers, a sister, and their matchmaking mother. The story is a delightful mix of romance, humor, and the gripping world of professional hockey.
Characters:
- Kingston (King): A professional hockey player and bachelor who has sworn off relationships after a disastrous setup by his mother. Despite his initial reservations, King proves to be a hero with a heart of gold.
- Aurora (Rory): A resilient woman who has faced immense hardship, including losing her father and enduring abuse from her ex-fiancé. Rory’s strength and vulnerability make her an endearing character.
Plot:
The story kicks off with King finding Rory in a dire state on the side of the road, dressed in a wedding gown and clearly beaten. Displaying his protective nature, King takes Rory home and calls for help from her best friend and the friend’s father, who happens to be King’s boss and a doctor.
Despite his aversion to relationships, King can’t help but care for Rory. As they pretend to be engaged to keep King’s meddling mother at bay, their fake relationship starts to feel very real. The chemistry between them is palpable, and their interactions are filled with witty banter and heartfelt moments. King’s special nicknames for Rory add a sweet touch to their developing romance.
Themes:
The novel handles themes of resilience and healing, as Rory learns to trust and open her heart again. King’s journey from a commitment-phobic bachelor to a devoted partner is equally compelling. The subplot of their fake engagement turning real is both amusing and heartwarming.
Highlights:
- Chemistry and Banter: The dynamic between King and Rory is electric. Their banter and growing closeness keep the reader engaged throughout.
- King’s Care: King’s dedication to taking care of Rory is heartwarming, showcasing his protective and caring nature.
- Matchmaking Mama: The subplot involving King’s mother and her matchmaking efforts adds humor and a light-hearted element to the story.
Trigger Warning:
The book does address domestic abuse, which could be triggering for some readers. However, the author handles the topic with sensitivity and care.
Conclusion:
Lace ’em Up is a fantastic start to what promises to be an exciting series. The blend of romance, humor, and the backdrop of professional hockey creates a captivating read. King and Rory’s story is one of healing, growth, and unexpected love. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment of the Bang Brothers series and see what’s in store for the rest of the family.
Recommendation:
If you enjoy romance novels with strong chemistry, endearing characters, and a touch of humor, Lace ’em Up is a must-read. Be prepared to fall for Kingston, the ultimate book club boyfriend, and root for Rory’s journey to happiness.
