the golden goal by annah conwell
book review #15
Hello readers,
If the fall weather already started to get to you, and you are looking for a sweet and cozy hockey romance, I've got you!
The Golden Goal by Annah Conwell is an irresistible rivals-to-lovers hockey romance that will make your heart melt. The story revolves around Shaw Daniels, a professional hockey player, and Sutton Jones, his lifelong rival and his best friend's sister (ps: I LOVE this trope).
What sets this book apart is the deeply rooted connection between Shaw and Sutton—while their relationship begins with banter and sabotage, it’s clear that Shaw has been in love with her for a long time, even if Sutton hasn’t fully realized it.
Shaw’s affection for Sutton feels genuine and constant throughout the novel. Even though their interactions are laced with teasing and rivalry, the undercurrent of his feelings is unmistakable.
Shaw’s love for Sutton is portrayed with such depth and consistency that it becomes evident from the very beginning. His adoration is not a fleeting attraction but a deep-seated emotion that has quietly grown over the years. You see glimpses of his true feelings through the small, tender moments—his lingering glances, his protective instincts, and the way he goes out of his way to support her. Every act of kindness and teasing carries a layer of unspoken devotion.
Shaw's long-hidden feelings emerge as their playful antagonism evolves into something more profound. His steadfast love transforms from a subtle undercurrent to a powerful driving force in their relationship. The slow revelation of his feelings to her feels both inevitable and incredibly satisfying, as Shaw’s love is portrayed with authenticity, making their eventual romance all the more poignant. His unwavering commitment to Sutton is about winning her over and acknowledging a love that has always been there, quietly but persistently.
The book strikes the perfect balance between humor and romance. Shaw’s unwavering devotion is one of the standout aspects that makes this a 5-star read. It’s not just the romance that’s captivating—there’s also plenty of hockey action, making it a true sports romance with the excitement of the game woven into the love story.
The supporting characters also add depth to the narrative. Sutton’s close-knit family and Shaw’s teammates provide a vibrant backdrop, enriching the story and highlighting the personal growth of both protagonists. Their journey is filled with emotional highs and lows that will have you rooting for their happily ever after. I love the part where her brother and family find out.
The Golden Goal is a testament to Annah Conwell’s skill in crafting a heartfelt and engaging story. This book is a must-read if you’re a fan of swoon-worthy romances where the hero falls first and hard. It’s full of sweet moments, laugh-out-loud banter, and heartfelt confessions, making it a standout in the sports romance genre (at least for me). Dive into this charming tale and let Shaw and Sutton’s story steal your heart.
If you read it, please leave a comment about what you thought of the book and this sweet couple!
Read you soon,
Bea.
Photo by: Annah Conwell on Pinterest.