A review by lit_vibrations
Let the Games Begin by Rufaro Faith Mazarura

adventurous funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

Special thanks to the author, @macmillan.audio #MacAudio2024 for my advanced listening copy & @flatiron_books for my gifted copy‼️

We’re given a dual perspective from Zeke Moyo a young athlete competing in the Olympics and Olivia Nkomo a young woman whose dream to intern at the Olympics finally comes true. While Zeke’s goal is to win a gold medal this year and Olivia is hoping her internship will be everything she’s been dreaming it will be. Nothing turns out quite like the two expected when they arrive in Athens. 

When the two cross paths for the first time there’s a little heated tension and Olivia already has her perception of who she thinks Zeke is. Then being forced to live within the same space of the Olympic Village eventually they’re lead back to each other. 

I think both Olivia and Zeke were great characters and given their backstories it adds a layer of depth to the story which brought both characters to life for me. The writing in the book was really vivid a little overly descriptive at times but it makes you wonder what type of things really go on during the Olympics. I can’t say there was any real chemistry between Olivia and Zeke because they fell in love so quickly but I liked them together. They were both there for each other when the pressure to be perfect kicked in. So, I think the connection between them grew stronger because they were both in a vulnerable state. 

Overall, many readers may find this one to be highly entertaining. Exploring themes of self-reflection, coping with loss, expectations of family, friendship dynamics, and finding happiness. It was my first time ever reading a sports romance novel and while I wasn’t completely blown away I wasn’t disappointed after reading it either. It’s also releasing just in time for the Olympics so many might find it enjoyable for that reason alone.