Book Review: Skate Ever After

 

Eleanor did everything right—until life fell apart.
A widowed children’s book author, she’s back in her mother’s house, being told how to grieve, how to parent, and how to stay small.

Then she discovers roller derby.

The Grimm Reapers of Briar Glen are loud, fierce, and unapologetic. For the first time in years, Eleanor feels like herself again.

Enter Alex Prince, a kind, steady single dad she keeps running into. First in the stands. Then at their kids’ rehearsals. And finally at an open skate where a scraped knee and a gentle touch spark feelings Eleanor thought she’d lost forever.

Skate Ever After is a Cinderella retelling about grief and healing, body-positive strength, inclusive community, and the courage to live loudly again. A swoony, heart-forward romance about finding your power—and your happily ever after—on your own terms.

My Review

Eleanor is trying to do the best she can with the cards that she has been dealt. With the death of her husband, she now is a single parent to her adorable daughter, Ava. Ava is autistic, which Eleanor understands and appreciates. You know who does not, is Eleanor's mother. I "hate" and when I say hate, I mean "hate" her mother. She is horrible. 

As soon as I met Belle, I really liked her. You can't help but smile whenever she is around. Outside the ring and inside the ring, her personalities are two different. She is sweet but a dangerous enforcer with The Grimm Reapers of Briar Glen. I liked the relationship that Eleanor and Alex shared. Alex's son, Leo is a cutie. 

As a fan of roller derby, I really liked this book. I used to watch it all the time and even dreamt of becoming a roller derby girl. So, I was glad to see it being featured in this book and not just mentioned. The spice is a mild burn that is full of heart and emotions. Eleanor and Ava both grew and blossomed by the end of this story. I look forward to the next book in this series.