Hooking by Ellie Rae is a contemporary romance that dives into the complexities of modern relationships, set against the backdrop of professional sports. This engaging novel not only offers a glimpse into the glamorous and high-stakes world of professional hockey but also examines deeper themes of love, trust, and redemption. Rae skillfully balances the thrilling sports action with a heartwarming love story, making it a compelling read for both sports enthusiasts and romance fans alike.

The story centers around the life of Jack Turner, a charming and talented hockey player whose career is on the brink of skyrocketing. However, Jack's personal life is in shambles, plagued by past regrets and a current scandal that threatens to topple his professional achievements. Enter Sarah Collins, a young, ambitious public relations specialist hired to improve Jack’s tarnished image. Sarah, pragmatic and dedicated, is wary of the sports world and its notorious reputation but finds herself drawn to Jack’s charismatic yet vulnerable persona. As they work together to navigate the choppy waters of media scrutiny and public opinion, their professional relationship starts skating on thin ice, evolving into something neither of them had anticipated.

Rae's writing is sharp and evocative. She manages to capture the high-octane energy of hockey games in a way that is palpable, making the reader feel as though they are rink-side, feeling every tense moment of the gameplay. Her descriptions of the games are detailed and dynamic, serving not only to exhilarate but to further the narrative and the development of her characters. Especially effective is how Rae uses Jack’s on-ice performance as a metaphor for his internal struggles, creating a layered and more immersive experience for the reader.

The characters in Hooking are well crafted and multifaceted. Jack, with his flawed yet endearing nature, is a protagonist that readers will root for despite his imperfections. Rae adeptly demonstrates his growth throughout the novel, from a reckless sports star to a man who takes accountability for his actions and seeks genuine connection. Sarah, on the other hand, serves as the perfect foil to Jack. Her strength and independence make her a standout character, and her own arc—learning to trust and opening her heart—mirrors and complements Jack’s journey. The dynamic between the two is charged with tension but also filled with moments of genuine care, creating a believable and rooting romance.

Supporting characters add depth and humor to the story, from the gruff but loving coach who serves as a father figure to Jack, to Sarah’s vivacious best friend who provides comic relief and sage advice. Each character is well developed and plays a crucial role in the protagonists' lives, reflecting the interconnectedness of personal and professional worlds in the life of a professional athlete.

Where Rae particularly excels is in her exploration of the theme of redemption. Jack’s journey is not just about falling in love but about fundamentally reconstructing his life and priorities. Rae does not shy away from delving into Jack's darker moments, which makes his redemption arc all the more powerful. Similarly, Sarah’s evolution from a skeptic of love to a believer is handled with sincerity and depth, avoiding the clichés often found in romantic novels.

The backdrop of hockey provides a unique and vibrant setting. Rae's ample knowledge of the sport shines through, providing credibility to the portrayal of professional sports and its impact on personal lives. However, her in-depth explorations can sometimes sideline the pace of the romantic plot, which might leave readers anxious for more scenes dedicated purely to character development. Nonetheless, these detailed sporting sequences do add authenticity and are bound to be a hit with fans of hockey.

In conclusion, Hooking by Ellie Rae is a beautifully written romance that scores an emotional goal by marrying the thrill of professional hockey with the heartwarming journey of love and redemption. Rae's narrative agility captures the essence of the sporting world and human emotions with equal flair, making this novel a recommended read for those who love a good romance with a twist of sports action. Though occasionally weighed down by excessive sports terminology and game details, it ultimately presents a satisfying arc of personal growth and love, affirming the belief that everyone, no matter their past, has a shot at redemption and love.