Review: The Year We Fell Down: A Hockey Romance (The Ivy Years Book 1) by Sarina Bowen
From the moment I stumbled upon The Year We Fell Down, I was drawn to its unique premise—a college romance intertwined with themes of resilience and personal growth. Sarina Bowen, known for her emotionally charged stories, crafts a narrative that is not just about the sport of hockey but about finding strength in vulnerability. As someone who delights in heartfelt stories of overcoming obstacles, this book immediately caught my attention.
The narrative follows Corey Callahan, a spirited young woman whose dreams of playing college hockey take a harrowing turn after a tragic accident leaves her wheelchair-bound. This setup alone was enough to pull me in, as Corey’s journey explores the challenges and triumphs of redefining oneself amidst life’s unforeseen obstacles. Opposite her is Adam Hartley, a charming hockey player similarly sidelined by injury, who becomes her unexpected ally and, as the story unfolds, her closest confidant.
What I found most engaging about the characters is their relatability. Corey’s voice resonates with strength and vulnerability, embodying a spirit that refuses to be defined solely by her circumstances. The friendship that blossoms between her and Hartley is beautifully illustrated—a slow burn that evolves from shared hardships to a bond filled with genuine connection. Their banter—often laced with humor and tenderness—emphasizes their distinct personalities and lays the groundwork for the heartwarming romance that gradually unfolds.
Bowen’s writing style shines with clarity and emotional depth. She effortlessly captures the essence of college life—the ups, the downs, and the uncharted territories of young adulthood. The pacing is spot-on; the moments of tension and tenderness are balanced beautifully, allowing readers to fully invest in Corey and Hartley’s journeys. One particularly memorable line that echoes throughout the book is, “Everyone has their s*** to shovel,” reminding us that we all carry our burdens, seen or unseen.
Moreover, the secondary characters play pivotal roles, adding more layers to the story. Corey’s roommate, Dana, offers not just friendship but unwavering support, while Hartley’s background adds complexity to his character, making him more than just the typical handsome athlete.
As I turned the last page, I found myself both heartbroken and uplifted. The Year We Fell Down isn’t merely a romance; it’s a poignant exploration of resilience, love, and the courage to embrace one’s new reality. This narrative will resonate with readers who appreciate stories that delve into personal growth amidst adversity, making it a perfect fit for fans of contemporary romance and new adult literature.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a heartfelt story that will tug at your heartstrings and inspire you with its themes of friendship, love, and resilience, The Year We Fell Down is a must-read. Sarina Bowen has truly outdone herself, and I cannot wait to see what’s in store for Corey’s journey in the subsequent installments of The Ivy Years series.
You can find The Year We Fell Down: A Hockey Romance (The Ivy Years Book 1) here >>