Long Shot by Kennedy Ryan

*** Review ***

Long Shot by Kennedy Ryan is a deeply emotional and captivating novel that delves into the world of second chance sports romance while tackling the challenging and sensitive subject of intimate partner violence. Set against the backdrop of professional basketball, the story follows Iris DuPree and August West, two individuals whose lives collide one fateful night in a sports bar, sparking a connection that leaves a lasting impact on both of them.

The novel opens with Iris, a college student in a seemingly perfect relationship with basketball star Caleb, who meets August, Caleb’s long-time rival and NBA draft prospect. Their electric encounter leaves them longing for more, but fate has other plans. Iris’s life takes a dark turn as she becomes a victim of intimate partner violence, turning her dreams into a nightmare. Meanwhile, August rises to fame and success in the NBA, but memories of that life-altering night with Iris continue to haunt him.

So, the perfect fairy tale , right?

Well, it must be noted Long Shot is so much more than just a sports romance. It’s a raw and unflinching exploration of a survivor’s journey, a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and a reminder of the importance of hope and healing in the face of unimaginable trauma. Kennedy Ryan’s writing style is so realistically vivid that I found myself experiencing the characters’ emotions alongside them. The pain, the anger, the hope—it all felt so palpable and real.

Kennedy Ryan handles the delicate subject matter of domestic and sexual abuse with sensitivity and skill, shedding light on the horrors victims endure and the strength it takes to survive. Iris’s journey is heart-wrenching, but her resilience and determination shine through as she finds her way to stand on her own two feet. The author portrays her emotions so vividly that readers can’t help but feel deeply connected to her struggles and triumphs.

I must admit, the book’s graphic content and trigger warnings made it challenging to read at times, but I truly believe that this story needed to be told. It sheds light on the harsh realities faced by victims of domestic and intimate partner violence, a topic that needs more attention and understanding. Through Iris and August’s journey, Kennedy Ryan skillfully portrays the stigma and isolation that survivors endure while also offering a glimmer of hope and the possibility of finding love and healing.

Ryan’s writing style is nothing short of phenomenal, skillfully transferring the characters’ emotions onto the pages. The authenticity and realism of the story make readers feel as though they are living alongside the characters, sharing in their joys and sorrows. The author’s ability to evoke such strong reactions from readers is a testament to her storytelling prowess.

While Long Shot is not an easy read, its importance cannot be understated. The book confronts difficult issues head-on, shedding light on the stigma and isolation faced by victims of abuse. It emphasizes the importance of finding hope, healing, and love after trauma. Iris Dupree stands as one of the most compelling fictional characters, exemplifying strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Despite the graphic content and trigger warnings throughout the book, Long Shot is a story that deserves to be read and shared. The love story between Iris and August is touching, sweet, and spicy, but it is Iris’s journey to healing and empowerment that truly leaves a lasting impression.

The portrayal of basketball, one of the author’s favorite sports, adds a unique and engaging layer to the narrative. The chemistry between Iris and August is palpable, and their complex relationship keeps readers engrossed throughout. The first half of the book is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with heartbreak and gut-wrenching moments that evoke a wide range of emotions, from pain to anger and everything in between.

Kennedy Ryan’s skill in crafting well-built and complex characters that feel so real adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Iris’s story is just the beginning of the Hoops trilogy, promising even more powerful tales to come.

If you’re looking for a powerful, emotionally charged, and thought-provoking read, Long Shot is a book that I wholeheartedly recommend. Just be prepared to go through a rollercoaster of emotions as you embark on this unforgettable journey with Iris and August. This book may not be for everyone due to its sensitive content, but for those willing to take the plunge, it’s an experience that will resonate deeply and inspire long after you’ve finished reading.