The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata

*** Review ***

The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata is a slow burn romance novel that captivates readers with its well-developed characters and engaging storyline. Vanessa Mazur, a personal assistant to Aiden Graves, the top defensive end in the National Football Organization, finally decides to quit her thankless job and pursue her own dreams. However, Aiden unexpectedly shows up at her door, begging her to come back. What follows is a surprising turn of events as Aiden proposes a fake marriage to solve his visa issues and keep Vanessa by his side.

Zapata, known for her slow-burning romances, once again delivers a compelling story that keeps readers invested in the characters. Vanessa and Aiden are both well-developed and likable protagonists. Vanessa’s strong-willed and determined nature make her relatable and admirable, while Aiden’s initial coldness and gradual transformation into a more caring and loving partner create a satisfying character arc. The banter between Vanessa and Aiden adds a delightful touch to their dynamic and keeps the readers engaged throughout the book.

From the very first page, I connected with the protagonist, Vanessa Mazur, on a deep level. Her voice resonated with me, and I couldn’t help but empathize with her struggles and aspirations. As a personal assistant to Aiden Graves, the stoic and unapproachable defensive end of the National Football Organization, Vanessa was often overlooked and taken for granted. However, her determination to pursue her dreams and be recognized for her own talents was inspiring.

The turning point in the story occurred when Vanessa made the difficult decision to leave her job, seeking to break free from the confines of her unfulfilling role. But just as she thought she was moving on, Aiden unexpectedly appeared at her doorstep, pleading for her to return. I was intrigued by this unexpected twist, as it signaled the beginning of a profound transformation for both characters.

Aiden, known for his emotional detachment and imposing wall of silence, surprised me with his vulnerability and desperation to keep Vanessa in his life. What started as a fake marriage proposal for the sake of convenience turned into a journey of self-discovery and profound love. The slow development of their relationship allowed for a deep exploration of their individual strengths, weaknesses, and fears.

One of the strengths of Zapata’s writing is her ability to create intimate and heartfelt moments between the characters. The slow progression of Vanessa and Aiden’s relationship allows for a deep emotional connection to develop, making their eventual romantic moments all the more meaningful. From their first hug to their genuine moments of vulnerability, each interaction between the characters is crafted with care and detail, leaving readers eager to witness their growing connection.

The chemistry between Vanessa and Aiden was undeniable, and I appreciated how Zapata took her time building their connection. It was a true slow burn romance, and I found myself fully invested in their relationship by the end. Zapata’s writing allowed me to trust their bond and believe in their love.

Aside from the captivating romance, the book also touches on some sensitive topics. Vanessa has a toxic relationship with her family, including a sister who caused her a lasting leg injury and another sister who locked her in a dark closet. Aiden, too, carries the scars of his past, having experienced physical abuse as a child. These experiences shape their characters and add depth to the story.

The supporting characters in the book also add depth and richness to the story. Zac, a side character, brings a refreshing dynamic and adds to the overall enjoyment of the narrative. Additionally, the exploration of Vanessa’s family dynamics, including her toxic relationship with her sisters and the lasting leg injury she suffered, adds a layer of complexity to her character and creates a sense of empathy for her struggles.

While the book excels in character development and romance, some readers may find the ending to be abrupt. The pacing in the final chapters feels rushed, cramming a lot of events into a short span of pages. However, the additional epilogue included in this edition adds a sweet touch and provides a glimpse into the characters’ future, which readers will appreciate.

Zapata’s writing style is engaging and easy to read, making the book a quick and enjoyable experience. The inclusion of football elements in the story adds an interesting backdrop, even for readers who are not sports fans. The book seamlessly weaves together different tropes, including enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, and marriage of convenience, resulting in a unique and compelling narrative.

In terms of content warnings, the book tackles sensitive subjects such as toxic family relationships, traumatic past experiences, abuse, and mental health struggles. Zapata handles these themes with care and provides trigger warnings, allowing readers to approach the book with the necessary awareness.

The Wall of Winnipeg and Me is a recommended read for fans of slow burn romances and those who appreciate well-developed characters and authentic emotional journeys. Mariana Zapata’s ability to create a strong connection between readers and her characters shines through in this novel. With its blend of romance, character growth, and heartfelt moments, this book is a delightful addition to the author’s body of work.