Dancing in the Rain
by Kelly Jamieson
A retired athlete meets the daughter he never knew—along with the woman who reignites his passions—in this powerful standalone romance from the bestselling author of Hot Shot and the Heller Brothers series.
Drew Sellers is drowning in broken dreams and empty beer bottles. Hockey was his world, until a bum knee reduced him from superstar to has-been. Then he learns that, thanks to a one-night-stand back in college, he’s the father of a preteen girl with major issues. Her protective aunt sees right through Drew’s BS, but “Auntie P” is no stereotypical spinster. With her slender curves, toned legs, and luscious lips, she has Drew indulging in fantasies that aren’t exactly family-friendly.
At another point in her life, Peyton Watt would have been all over a cocky alpha male who pushes all her buttons like Drew. Right now, though, she needs to focus on taking care of her niece during her sister’s health crisis, all while holding down a job and keeping her own head above water. Besides, Drew’s clearly no father of the year. He’s unemployed. He drinks too much. And he’s living in the past. But after Peyton gets a glimpse of the genuine man behind his tough-guy façade, she’s hooked—and there’s no going back.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Kelly Jamieson's Dancing in the Rain is a heartfelt and emotionally charged romance that explores themes of redemption, family, and the transformative power of love. Known for her ability to weave engaging narratives with complex characters, Jamieson once again delivers a story that resonates on multiple levels, making it a compelling read for fans of contemporary romance.
The novel centers around Drew Sellers, a former hockey superstar whose life has taken a nosedive following a career-ending injury. Drew's journey from the heights of athletic success to the depths of personal despair is portrayed with raw honesty. Jamieson does not shy away from depicting Drew's struggles with alcohol and his sense of purposelessness, painting a vivid picture of a man grappling with the loss of his identity. This portrayal is both realistic and relatable, as it taps into the universal fear of losing one's sense of self and the challenge of finding a new path forward.
Enter Peyton Watt, the fiercely protective aunt of Drew's newly discovered daughter. Peyton is a character who embodies strength and resilience, juggling the demands of her career while caring for her niece amidst her sister's health crisis. Her initial skepticism of Drew is understandable, given his apparent flaws, yet her gradual recognition of the genuine man beneath his tough exterior is a testament to Jamieson's skill in character development. Peyton's journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about love, and her evolution throughout the novel is both inspiring and heartwarming.
The dynamic between Drew and Peyton is electric, filled with tension and undeniable chemistry. Jamieson expertly crafts their interactions, balancing moments of humor and tenderness with the challenges they face. The progression of their relationship is natural and believable, avoiding the pitfalls of insta-love that often plague the romance genre. Instead, their connection is built on mutual respect and understanding, making their eventual union all the more satisfying.
One of the standout themes in Dancing in the Rain is the idea of redemption. Drew's journey is one of self-forgiveness and growth, as he learns to accept his past mistakes and strive for a better future. His relationship with his daughter is central to this theme, providing him with a newfound sense of purpose and a reason to change. The father-daughter dynamic is beautifully portrayed, capturing the awkwardness and joy of building a relationship from scratch. Jamieson handles this aspect of the story with sensitivity and grace, ensuring that it never feels forced or contrived.
In addition to its strong character work, the novel also excels in its exploration of family dynamics. The bond between Peyton and her niece is touching and authentic, highlighting the sacrifices and unconditional love that define familial relationships. Jamieson delves into the complexities of family life, addressing issues such as illness, responsibility, and the impact of past decisions. These elements add depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple love story to a rich tapestry of human experience.
Comparatively, Dancing in the Rain shares thematic similarities with works by authors like Susan Elizabeth Phillips and Kristan Higgins, who also excel in crafting emotionally resonant romances with well-rounded characters. However, Jamieson's unique voice and ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity set her apart, making this novel a standout in the genre.
Overall, Dancing in the Rain is a poignant and uplifting tale that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned. Kelly Jamieson has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, filled with moments of laughter, tears, and ultimately, hope. For those seeking a romance that goes beyond the surface to explore the depths of human emotion, this book is a must-read.
While the novel is a standalone, it carries the same emotional depth and engaging storytelling that fans of Jamieson's Hot Shot and the Heller Brothers series have come to love. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, Dancing in the Rain is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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