Wynter Ryan's Puck Me Like You Do is a contemporary romance novel that weaves together the worlds of figure skating and professional hockey, creating a narrative that is as much about personal growth as it is about the complexities of relationships. At its core, the book explores themes of ambition, self-discovery, and the often tumultuous journey of love.

The protagonist, Briella, is a figure skater whose life has been singularly focused on achieving Olympic glory. Her dedication to her sport has come at a significant personal cost, including missed social milestones and strained familial relationships. This sets the stage for a character who is at a crossroads, questioning the sacrifices she has made for her dream. The backdrop of her mother's destination wedding provides a catalyst for change, thrusting Briella into a situation that challenges her to reassess her priorities.

Ryan does an excellent job of portraying Briella's internal conflict. The character is richly developed, with her struggles and aspirations feeling authentic and relatable. Her journey is not just about reaching the Olympics but also about finding balance and understanding what truly makes her happy. This is a theme that resonates throughout the novel, making Briella's story compelling and engaging.

The introduction of Blade, Atlas, and Ivan, three professional hockey players, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story. Each character brings a unique personality to the narrative, and their interactions with Briella are both intense and complex. The chemistry between Briella and the trio is palpable, and Ryan skillfully navigates the intricacies of their relationships. The novel delves into themes of desire and connection, exploring how these elements can both complicate and enrich one's life.

One of the strengths of Puck Me Like You Do is its ability to balance romance with personal growth. While the romantic elements are central to the story, they do not overshadow Briella's journey of self-discovery. Instead, they complement it, highlighting how relationships can be both a source of support and a challenge to one's goals. The novel suggests that love and ambition are not mutually exclusive, but rather, they can coexist and even enhance one another.

Ryan's writing style is engaging and accessible, with a narrative that flows smoothly from one scene to the next. The dialogue is sharp and often witty, adding a layer of realism to the characters' interactions. The author also does a commendable job of capturing the intensity and passion of both figure skating and hockey, providing readers with a vivid sense of the sports' demands and rewards.

In comparison to other contemporary romance novels, Puck Me Like You Do stands out for its unique setting and well-developed characters. Fans of sports romance will find much to enjoy here, as will readers who appreciate stories of personal growth and self-discovery. The novel shares thematic similarities with works by authors like Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen, who also explore the intersection of sports and romance, but Ryan's focus on figure skating adds a fresh perspective to the genre.

Overall, Puck Me Like You Do is a captivating read that offers a thoughtful exploration of ambition, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Wynter Ryan has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page. Whether you're a fan of romance, sports, or stories of personal growth, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.