A review by iwillneversnitch
Beyond the Stroke by Erin Hawkins

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

•beach setting

•pro swimmer/ artist

•dog mom

•golden retriever mc/ black cat fc

•dual pov

Rory is a Professional Olympic swimmer who is back to training after a knee injury. Summer is trying to make ends meet in her new town and when she’s swimming for her life dressed as a mermaid and Rory saves her. Rory is fascinated by the mysterious mermaid and really makes it hard for Summer to turn down his many sweet attempts at friendship and making sure she’s okay except when he proposes marriage… literally. 

The characters were super cutesy, Rory was patient and understood Summer without words, unless they were needed then he went all “My Wife” and possessive but not in a douchie way. Summer was strong and independent, and built a life for herself away from her toxic family and ex. Around Rory her walls slowly fell and he became their home. Omg when he surprised her with the art room just based on how happy she was after finding paints was too sweet. 

thank you to valentine pr and Erin Hawkins for arc in exchange for an honest review!