Book: Sweet Redemption by Bella Matthews
Reviewed by Maggie Hayes
Rating: 4.5/5
Sweet Redemption by Bella Matthews
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
Angst is the name of the game when it comes to Serena and Hendrix. There is so much heartbreak and hurt between them that it seemed impossible they could find their way back to each other. I shouldn't have underestimated Bella Matthews' ability to give the people (me) what we want (scorching hot romance with heart).
I love Serena as an FMC. A former professional athlete (YAY for women in sports!!), she is trying to find her place after a career-ending injury. Working for her father and the hockey team her family owns doesn't fulfill her the way soccer did, and when her secret ex who destroyed her heart signs with the team, she has every reason to quit. She carries so much hurt, which we learn is completely justified, that it broke my heart. Through flashback chapters, we learn just how much she and Hendrix loved each other—and how they fell apart. If I had to pick one word to describe their breakup and the fallout afterward, it would be DEVASTATING.
Hendrix is also trying to find his place as a single father to a young son who has lost his mother. Once he moves back home to Kroydon Hills following the death of his WIFE (!!), he is determined to win Serena back. I wanted to hate him a little for how quickly he seemed to move on after his relationship with Serena ended, but his POV and the reveal of what actually happened between them made it impossible. Instead, I totally fell for the sweetheart of a man who once promised Serena forever—and is determined to make good on that promise.
When they finally reunite, it is both tender and deliciously spicy. Nothing is swept under the rug, making their reconciliation feel like it will actually last forever this time. I definitely teared up at multiple points in the story, especially whenever a new letter was introduced (IYKYK). Equal parts heartbreaking and healing.
Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for providing an ARC.