Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler

Tuesday, August 2, 2011 |

Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler

Pages: 303
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Flux
Publication Date: March 8, 2011
Source: Publicist

Overall:Photobucket

Star basketball player Chelsea "Nitro" Keyes had the promise of a full ride to college-and everyone's admiration in her hometown. But everything changed senior year, when she took a horrible fall during a game. Now a metal plate holds her together and she feels like a stranger in her own family.

As a graduation present, Chelsea's dad springs for a three-week summer "boot camp" program at a northern Minnesota lake resort. There, she's immediately drawn to her trainer, Clint, a nineteen-year-old ex-hockey player who's haunted by his own traumatic past. As they grow close, Chelsea is torn between her feelings for Clint and her loyalty to her devoted boyfriend back home. Will an unexpected romance just end up causing Chelsea and Clint more pain-or finally heal their heartbreak?
Compelling and beautifully written, Playing Hurt is an absorbing story of loss and love. With alternative perspectives, Schindler was able to portray heartfelt feelings and perceive each character in more depth.

The premise of Playing Hurt was very original and intriguing-- two characters whose love for sports is shattered and is struggling to find themselves complete. Moreover, the setting of Minnesota was perfect. Schindler was clear-cut with rich and vibrant detail, especially with the adventures in Minnesota with Chelsea and Clint.

Chelsea and Clint's past was unfortunate and Schindler clearly evoked their pain and emotions. With both their emotional and physical distress, and being haunted with their fears, they helped each other in many ways. Clint was sweet and obliging, he pushed Chelsea to accept the past and heal from it. The chemistry and attraction between them was startling because they start to realize that what they loss will start to heal as their friendship grows.

With multi-dimensional and realistic characters, deep emotions, and beautiful romance, Playing Hurt tackles issues of loss, love, healing, and acceptance.

3 comments:

Mary @ BookSwarm said...

I love Holly Schindler but I haven't read this one yet. Sounds great!
Happy reading!
Mary @ Book Swarm

Cindy said...

I've only heard positive things on this one, and I have my own signed copy, but have not read it yet. Hopefully I will be able to soon. Great review :)

alyssa said...

I love your blog's layout! :)

Post a Comment

Newer Posts Older Posts Home