A review by allingoodtime
The Hot Shot by Kristen Callihan

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The discussion of slow-burn romance was all over Twitter (again) as I was reading this story. In the past, I’ve attested that I am not a fan of slow burn. Seeing the discussions while reading a phenomenal slow burn made me realize I just don’t like slow burn when it’s not done right. I mentioned in my review of this author’s book Managed that she should give a class on how to do a slow burn correctly. Reading this series, she’s proven that thought time and time again.

There is chemistry dripping off the page with Chess and Finn before they’re even friends. Every page ramps up their heat bit by bit, and before I know it I’m stunned that they are so hot together without having crossed into the “more than friends” territory.

Both characters break my heart. They’re tough outer shells with ooey-gooey centers. Finn’s shell falls away rather quickly with Chess. He realizes almost instantly that she’s the one for him, but he also knows she needs space and time to come to the same conclusion. He is so supportive and nurturing, yet also gives her the autonomy she needs even when all he wants to do is swoop in and save the day.

Just because people are in love doesn’t mean they always make good choices. Mistakes are made and Chess is too proud and scared to do anything but walk away. Finn is too in his head to grovel and beg. Somehow, during this heartbreaking time, Chess finds what she needs to make her relationship work. She’s had a hard time going all in and finding that she can be alone doesn’t mean she has to be alone. All the heartache is worth the happiness in the end. 
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