Delayed Penalty
by Lexi James
Avery
My entire life I’ve always had one dream: become a teacher. It started when I was in third grade and had a teacher I adored who taught me to read, when all the teachers before her had given up on me.
The day I stepped foot on my college campus to tour it was also the day I was introduced to my second dream. Harris Danielson. After we met that day, we talked almost every single day and we spent the next two years falling in love. Until it was time for him to go to the NHL and he broke my heart without even speaking a word.
Now I’m a teacher yet I still feel like my life is empty, like I’m trapped, and the thing caging me in sits on my ring finger, a constant reminder that I don’t really have another choice.
Until I do something crazy and end up staring down at a test with two pink lines.
How do you tell the man you used to be in love with that you’re about to have a baby…together.
Worse? How do you keep your heart protected when you’re seeing the only thing you’ve ever wanted come together, only it’s not what it seems.
Harris
Hockey and my family have always been the two constants in my life. The two things that I knew would always be there on the good days and the bad days. Until I met Avery. Avery became the third constant in my life, fitting in so effortlessly that it felt like she’d always be there.
Until she left.
After that I was left with a hole in my heart, a gap that no one could fill, a fact that I’ve learned over the years until eventually I just stopped trying. Until one day I run into her again and it’s like I’m transported back six years ago, her smile and laugh enough to turn a bad day around.
But then I see the ring on her finger and am reminded that she’s not mine anymore.
But after a night out, life is forever changed when she tells me she’s pregnant. Now the stakes are higher than ever, can I keep the girl, finally getting the family I’ve dreamed about for years?
All I know is I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep them, both of them.
.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Lexi James' Delayed Penalty is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of rekindled relationships. The novel deftly intertwines the lives of Avery and Harris, two characters whose paths diverged due to circumstances beyond their control, only to converge again under unexpected conditions. This book is a compelling read for anyone who enjoys romance with a touch of realism and emotional depth.
The narrative is split between the perspectives of Avery and Harris, allowing readers to delve deeply into their thoughts and emotions. This dual perspective is one of the novel's strengths, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of both characters' motivations and internal conflicts. Avery is portrayed as a dedicated teacher, a profession she has aspired to since childhood. Her passion for teaching is palpable, and it serves as a testament to her resilience and determination. However, beneath her professional success lies a sense of emptiness, a void that stems from her unresolved feelings for Harris and the constraints of her current life situation.
Harris, on the other hand, is a professional hockey player whose life has been defined by the sport and his family. His journey is marked by the pursuit of excellence on the ice, but it is Avery who adds a new dimension to his life. The chemistry between Avery and Harris is undeniable, and their shared history adds layers of complexity to their interactions. Harris's longing for a family and his determination to win Avery back are central to his character development, making him a relatable and sympathetic figure.
The theme of second chances is woven throughout the narrative, as both Avery and Harris grapple with the possibility of rekindling their romance. The novel raises thought-provoking questions about whether love can truly be rekindled after years of separation and whether the past can be reconciled with the present. Avery's unexpected pregnancy serves as a catalyst for change, forcing both characters to confront their feelings and make difficult decisions about their future.
James skillfully navigates the emotional landscape of the story, capturing the nuances of love and heartbreak with authenticity. The dialogue is crisp and engaging, and the emotional tension between Avery and Harris is palpable. The author does not shy away from exploring the complexities of their relationship, including the challenges posed by Avery's engagement and the societal expectations surrounding it. This adds a layer of realism to the story, making it more relatable to readers who have experienced similar dilemmas in their own lives.
One of the novel's standout features is its exploration of personal growth and self-discovery. Both Avery and Harris undergo significant transformations as they confront their past and envision a future together. Avery's journey is particularly compelling, as she navigates the challenges of impending motherhood and the possibility of a new beginning with Harris. Her character arc is a testament to the strength and resilience of women who face difficult choices and emerge stronger for it.
In comparison to other contemporary romance novels, Delayed Penalty stands out for its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of relationships. Fans of authors like Colleen Hoover and Nicholas Sparks will appreciate James' ability to craft a story that is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. The novel's pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension and introspection interspersed with lighter, more humorous scenes that provide relief from the emotional intensity.
While the novel excels in many areas, there are moments where the plot feels somewhat predictable, particularly in its adherence to certain romance tropes. However, James' skillful writing and character development more than compensate for this, ensuring that readers remain invested in Avery and Harris's journey.
Overall, Delayed Penalty is a beautifully written novel that explores the intricacies of love, forgiveness, and the possibility of new beginnings. Lexi James has crafted a story that resonates with readers on an emotional level, offering a poignant reminder that sometimes, the greatest rewards come from taking risks and embracing the unknown. Whether you're a fan of romance or simply enjoy a well-told story about the complexities of human relationships, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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