purplelotus9411 's review for:

On Merit Alone by Adorabol Huckleby-Ordaz

5.0

emotional funny slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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I can’t even find the words to sum up how much I loved this story. This was a DELICIOUS slow burn and such a heartfelt sports romance (with almost no spice). Ira King, welcome to the book bae hall of fame👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾! Affirming. Attentive. A protector. Patient. Kind. Emotionally intelligent. All the things. He was just what Merit needed…even though (because of her trauma) she made him put in extra work for her love & trust lol. All of the characters are likable and you’re rooting for Merit & Ira from day 1. The book is lengthy, but it doesn’t feel that way because the characters have good chemistry & banter and you’re easily wrapped up into their lives. It was a pleasure having a front row seat to Merit’s healing journey, and Ira’s journey to figuring out who he is off the court. I do also like how the author highlights sexism in Women’s sports, & even the struggle that Black women face in the workplace if we don’t come off as smiley and more “palatable”.