Scoring the Doctor by Sasha Lace is a contemporary romance novel that offers a steamy and engaging tale of love, passion, and the unexpected paths that life can lead us down. Set against the backdrop of a bustling hospital, the story intertwines personal and professional lives, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and relationships that are both relatable and invigorating to explore.

The novel introduces us to Brooke Sullivan, an ambitious and dedicated pediatrician who has dedicated her life to caring for her young patients. Despite her success in her career, Brooke's personal life remains a series of disappointments, largely due to her demanding job. Enter Ryan Carter, the new orthopedic surgeon, who is not only exceptionally skilled but also disarmingly handsome and charming. His arrival at the hospital sets the stage for an enthralling romantic journey filled with tension, humor, and heart.

Sasha Lace does an admirable job of crafting a protagonist in Brooke who is both strong and vulnerable. The character’s dedication to her profession is palpable, and her struggles to balance this with her personal desires are portrayed with a realism that many will find compelling. Brooke’s character is a refreshing departure from some romantic novel stereotypes; she is neither the damsel in distress nor the unapproachable ice queen. She is a well-rounded character dealing with the same struggles that many women face.

Ryan, on the other hand, is more than just a simple romantic foil for the protagonist. His development throughout the narrative and the backstory of his own career and family issues add layers to the character that make him more engaging and believable. His interactions with Brooke are filled with a mix of witty banter and meaningful dialogue, which serves to build a believable chemistry between them.

One of the strengths of Scoring the Doctor is its setting. The hospital is not merely a backdrop but almost a character in its own right. Lace expertly captures the high-stakes environment of hospital life - the camaraderie among staff, the life-or-death decisions, and the ways these experiences spill over into personal lives. Additionally, the medical details described in the book are accurate yet not overly technical, making them accessible to readers without a medical background while still providing a sense of authenticity.

The writing style of Sasha Lace is fluid and engaging, with a knack for vivid descriptions and brisk pacing that keeps the reader hooked from beginning to end. The narrative is interspersed with light-hearted moments that provide relief from the more intense emotional scenes, making the novel an easy and enjoyable read. However, one might argue that some plot points are predictable, following the traditional trajectory of romantic novels, which might disappoint readers looking for something entirely unconventional.

However, the novel is not without its deeper themes. Beyond the romance and personal dilemmas, Scoring the Doctor delves into issues such as professional ethics, the pressure of societal expectations, and the personal sacrifices that often accompany a high-powered career. These themes are woven seamlessly into the plot, enhancing the story rather than bogging it down.

The secondary characters in the book also add a rich layer to the narrative. Each character, from the grumpy but golden-hearted nurse to the jittery intern, is well fleshed out and adds humor and depth to the story. Their interactions with Brooke and Ryan provide a broader context for the main characters' actions and growth, creating a sense of community within the book’s setting.

In conclusion, Scoring the Doctor by Sasha Lace is an enthralling contemporary romance that ticks many boxes for a perfect weekend read. It combines the intensity of a medical drama with the allure of a passionate romance. While it embraces some common tropes, it does so with enough flair and originality to keep the reader invested. If you are a fan of romance that blends emotional depth with engaging storytelling, Sasha Lace’s novel is definitely worth the read. With its potent mix of likable characters, dynamic relationships, and compelling narrative, Scoring the Doctor is a book that both entertains and resonates.