Nikki Callan's Stick With Me is a delightful exploration of love, friendship, and the unexpected turns life can take. At its core, the novel is a romantic comedy that deftly balances humor with heartfelt emotion, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre. The story revolves around Hannah Clarke, a woman whose life is upended when her fiancé publicly declares their breakup, leaving her to navigate the aftermath with a set of self-imposed rules designed to protect her heart. However, as is often the case in romance, rules are made to be broken.

One of the novel's standout elements is its character development. Hannah is portrayed as a relatable and resilient protagonist. Her journey from heartbreak to self-discovery is both engaging and inspiring. Callan does an excellent job of illustrating Hannah's internal struggle as she grapples with her past relationship and the fear of opening up to new possibilities. The author captures the nuances of Hannah's emotions, making her a character that readers can easily empathize with.

Ryan Logan, Hannah's best friend and her ex's rival, is equally well-developed. He is charming, supportive, and unwavering in his determination to show Hannah that love is worth the risk. Ryan's character is a refreshing departure from the typical alpha male trope often found in romance novels. Instead, he is portrayed as a genuine and caring individual who respects Hannah's boundaries while subtly encouraging her to embrace the possibility of love. The chemistry between Hannah and Ryan is palpable, and their interactions are filled with witty banter and tender moments that will leave readers rooting for their relationship.

The theme of friendship is intricately woven into the narrative, adding depth to the story. Hannah and Ryan's friendship serves as the foundation for their evolving relationship, highlighting the importance of trust and understanding in any romantic partnership. Callan skillfully explores how the lines between friendship and romance can blur, creating a dynamic that feels authentic and relatable. The novel also touches on the theme of self-discovery, as Hannah learns to let go of her fears and embrace the unknown.

Another notable aspect of Stick With Me is its exploration of the world of professional hockey. While the sports setting serves as a backdrop to the romance, it adds an interesting layer to the story. Callan provides just enough detail about the sport to engage readers without overwhelming them with technical jargon. The competitive nature of hockey mirrors the emotional stakes in Hannah and Ryan's relationship, creating a parallel that enhances the narrative.

In terms of writing style, Callan's prose is engaging and accessible. Her ability to balance humor with emotional depth is commendable, and she has a knack for crafting dialogue that feels natural and authentic. The pacing of the novel is well-executed, with a steady build-up to the climax that keeps readers invested in the outcome. The use of a fake relationship trope is handled with finesse, avoiding clichés and instead focusing on the genuine connection between the characters.

Comparatively, Stick With Me shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels, such as those by authors like Christina Lauren and Sally Thorne. Like these authors, Callan excels at creating relatable characters and engaging storylines that resonate with readers. However, what sets Callan's work apart is her ability to infuse the narrative with a sense of authenticity and warmth that makes the story feel both fresh and familiar.

Overall, Stick With Me is a charming and heartwarming read that will appeal to fans of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. Nikki Callan has crafted a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page. The novel's exploration of love, friendship, and self-discovery is executed with skill and sensitivity, making it a standout addition to the genre. For those looking for a romance that is equal parts sweet and satisfying, Stick With Me is a must-read.