A review by admya
Through the Ice by Jaqueline Snowe

4.25

❤️‍🔥enemies to lovers 
❤️‍🔥 forced proximity 
❤️‍🔥 hockey romance 
❤️‍🔥 v card 
❤️‍🔥 forbidden 

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 
Spice: 🌶️ 

"Through The Ice" by Jacqueline Snowe is a compelling and heartfelt romance set against the intense backdrop of a hospital ICU. The novel deftly explores themes of forgiveness, understanding, and the complex nature of personal and familial responsibilities through the lens of its protagonists, Audrey Hawthorne and Theo Sanders. 

Audrey Hawthorne, a dedicated nursing student, is determined to excel in her senior clinicals. However, her plans are thrown into disarray when she is paired with Theo Sanders, the hockey player she holds responsible for her brother's career-ending injury. From the outset, Audrey's animosity towards Theo is palpable, and Jaqueline Snowe does an excellent job of portraying her internal struggle between professionalism and personal vendetta. 

Theo Sanders is introduced as a character of depth and complexity, hidden beneath his sunny exterior. As the novel progresses, Jaqueline Snowe peels back the layers of his personality, revealing the burdens he carries as the primary caretaker for his siblings following his mother’s stroke. This duality in Theo’s character makes him immensely relatable and endearing. He’s not just a charming athlete but a young man grappling with significant life challenges, seeking redemption and understanding. 

The forced proximity of Audrey and Theo working together in the ICU serves as a powerful narrative device, pushing them to confront their preconceived notions about each other. The high-stakes environment of the ICU adds a layer of urgency and realism to their interactions, making their journey from animosity to understanding all the more poignant. Jaqueline Snowe’s depiction of the medical setting is both authentic and respectful, enhancing the credibility of the story. 

As Audrey gets to know Theo beyond the surface, her initial grudge begins to dissolve. Jaqueline Snowe expertly navigates this transition, showing how Audrey's perceptions are challenged by Theo’s actions and the revelations about his personal life. Their developing relationship is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, capturing the hesitance, vulnerability, and eventual acceptance that comes with breaking down emotional barriers. 

The emotional stakes are heightened by the consideration of family dynamics. Audrey’s loyalty to her brother and the fear of alienating him by getting involved with Theo adds a significant layer of tension to the story. This conflict is well-handled, offering a nuanced exploration of family loyalty versus personal happiness. 

Jaqueline Snowe’s writing is engaging and evocative, balancing emotional depth with moments of levity and warmth. The chemistry between Audrey and Theo is palpable, and their dialogues are sharp and authentic. The pacing of the novel is well-judged, with each chapter building on the tension and emotional stakes, keeping readers invested in the characters' journey. 

In conclusion, "Through The Ice" by Jacqueline Snowe is a beautifully crafted romance that goes beyond the typical tropes to deliver a story of forgiveness, understanding, and the complexities of human relationships. With its well-developed characters, authentic setting, and emotionally charged narrative, this book is a standout in contemporary romance. Audrey and Theo’s journey from adversaries to allies, and ultimately to lovers, is both touching and inspiring, making "Through The Ice" a must-read for fans of the genre.