“Time to Shine” by Rachel Reid is a heartwarming holiday romance that skates the perfect line between joy and depth, offering readers a festive treat that’s hard to put down. This entry in Reid’s acclaimed Game Changers series brings together Landon Stackhouse, a reserved and somewhat brooding backup goalie, with Casey Hicks, the team’s young superstar winger, known for his boundless energy and open heart.
At its core, “Time to Shine” is a story of unexpected love and finding one’s place in the world against the backdrop of professional hockey. Landon, recently called up from a farm team, struggles with self-doubt and isolation, a situation not helped by his natural introversion. Enter Casey Hicks, whose innate warmth and persistent friendliness begin to melt Landon’s icy exterior. The novel explores their growing connection, from roommates to something much deeper, all while navigating the pressures of professional sports and personal demons.
Reid delivers a narrative filled with laughter, tender moments, and the magic of finding love where you least expect it. Casey’s effervescent charm and Landon’s quiet strength form the perfect juxtaposition, making their journey toward love as touching as it is genuine. The Christmas setting adds a layer of coziness and charm, enveloping the reader in a warm embrace from start to finish.
Rachel Reid’s talent for weaving together the intensity of hockey with the intricacies of romance shines brightly in this novel. The balance struck between exciting game sequences and intimate moments is masterful, providing a comprehensive experience of the characters’ professional and personal lives. Casey, with his non-traditional intelligence and golden heart, offers a refreshing take on romance heroes, proving that love and kindness are the true measures of a man.
The novel’s light and fluffy tone, while perfect for a holiday romance, occasionally skirts the edge of being too light, especially when dealing with themes of grief and trauma. While the cheeriness counterbalances heavier topics, some readers might find the balance tipped slightly too far towards the lighthearted. Additionally, Casey’s youthful demeanor sometimes clashes with his professional status, though this dissonance lessens as the story progresses.
The dual third-person POV provides a well-rounded perspective on both Casey and Landon’s thoughts and feelings, enriching the narrative. The inclusion and handling of Landon’s demisexuality are thoughtful and insightful, offering a nuanced portrayal of a relationship that defies conventional expectations without sacrificing intimacy or emotional connection.
With a slow burn that pays off, the moments of intimacy between Landon and Casey are all the more impactful for their patience and mutual respect. The heat level is tastefully steamy, emphasizing the emotional bond as much as the physical one.
“Time to Shine” concludes with a satisfying HEA, wrapping up Landon and Casey’s story in a way that leaves the reader content and hopeful. The novel stands alone, though it fits beautifully within the broader universe Reid has created, making it a joy for both new readers and series fans.
