A review by pantslint
Deep End by Ali Hazelwood

emotional funny lighthearted fast-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

4.25

Hazelwood's writing just keeps getting better and better. My favorite parts were actually the scenes and conversations with the men's swim team; they perfectly capture the essence of brotherly camaraderie in men's sports and also dumb (but wholesome) frat boy shenanigans. 
I found the pacing of the culminating conflict
with Penelope
to be too awkward and rushed at the end.
There was so much energy put into establishing how positive Penelope's character is, that I absolutely expected a conflict; we have to really understand her in order to still root for and like her afterwards. Her "descent" just kind of felt like a weird coin flip in the last few pages. I would absolutely read a spin-off about her though.

The spice is great, but intense. I don't recommend this book for people new to Hazelwood or fic writing. But it's so fun. I love Lukas, like I am with every male lead by Hazelwood. ❤️
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