Book Review: Mile High: Windy City Series, Book 1 by Liz Tomforde
There are moments when a book feels less like a read and more like a revelation, and Mile High by Liz Tomforde was one of those experiences for me. As a lover of cozy romances, the blend of a hockey backdrop and an enemies-to-lovers arc immediately drew me in. The premise had me curious: could a flight attendant and a notorious hockey player find love in the midst of chaos?
From the outset, I was entranced by the dynamic between Zanders, Chicago’s favorite "bad boy" on the ice, and Stevie, whose fierce spirit and determination make her a standout character. The banter between them is electric, as Zanders, often clad in a mask of arrogance, initially comes off as your typical cocky athlete. Yet as the layers peel back, we find a man grappling with his own insecurities and the weight of expectations. His journey towards understanding mental health adds significant depth, making him far more relatable than one might assume at first glance.
Stevie, on the other hand, is the perfect foil. As a curvy flight attendant dealing with the remnants of self-doubt and pressures from her past, she embodies resilience. Her struggle with body image—crafted with empathy by Tomforde—echoes the real-life challenges many face, and it’s refreshing to see a plus-sized heroine take center stage. Her character growth is nothing short of inspiring, particularly as she confronts her past while discovering self-worth through her relationship with Zanders.
What I particularly appreciated about Tomforde’s writing style is her knack for balancing humor and heart. The pacing is spot-on, keeping the narrative engaging without dragging out the many ups and downs of their budding romance. Each chapter felt like a conversation with a close friend, punctuated by laugh-out-loud moments and poignant emotional reflections. Plus, the insight into both characters’ mental health journeys sparked meaningful dialogue around topics often shied away from in contemporary romance.
One of my favorite moments comes from a scene where Zanders proclaims, “You’re my first choice, Vee. My only choice.” It’s a line that encapsulates the sincerity that evolves amidst their playful jabs, underscoring the idea that underneath bravado lies something genuinely beautiful when it comes to love.
Mile High isn’t just about hockey games and romance; it’s about finding oneself, confronting past dilemmas, and navigating the messy yet rewarding terrain of new relationships. For those who enjoy books that offer a rich blend of humor, emotional storytelling, and relatable characters surrounded by themes of self-acceptance, this is a must-read.
In conclusion, Liz Tomforde has produced a heartwarming start to the Windy City Series that swept me off my feet. If you’re looking for something that intertwines the thrill of romance with genuine character growth and a commitment to better mental health discussions, grab your copy of Mile High. You won’t regret joining Zanders and Stevie on their rollercoaster ride through love and self-discovery. This charming narrative has certainly left its mark on me, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment in this delightful series!