This was my first Mariana Zapata book, and I know she is the slow burn queen. But, I also know that her books are stellar, so I figured it was time to dive in and read one.

I DON'T KNOW WHY I WAITED SO LONG.

This was everything, and so worth the hype she and it gets. She really knows how to tell a story, and she can world build like nobody's business. This was also the ultimate enemies to friends to lovers. Jasmine and Ivan are competitive figure skaters who have always hated each other, but Ivan asks Jasmine to pair up with him. She reluctantly says yes, and only does so because she knows this is the only option, but it turns out to be the best thing to ever happen to them both. As the story unfolds, we see Jasmine and Ivan throughout the seasons of the year, getting closer and closer and discovering things about each other that make them both believe that there is more than meets the eye. The relationship development and growth was probably one of the best I have ever read, and to be honest, I wouldn't even classify this as a romance book. First of all, they do not even kiss until like 90%, and do not truly get together until about 97%. What this book is really about is telling Jasmine's story and telling Ivan's story, and then tying them together as a story that encompasses the two of them. It's about struggle and perserverance and defying the odds and chasing your dreams, and about friendship and partnership. It's about how one person can change your life, and that sometimes it's okay to find something different that you never thought you'd want but know you need. Jasmine was one strong woman, and her only weakness seemed to be Ivan. I loved that about her, and so did he. Ivan loved Jasmine, flaws and all, and loved her strong will and determination to never give up. Ivan's love shines through page after page, and it is clear what he loves more than ice skating: Jasmine Santos.

THAT EPILOGUE WAS SO PERFECT. I damn near cried.

This is a beautiful tale that Mariana Zapata tells, and it is easily now one of my favorite books.

“Because I’m okay with you having ten other people be your favorite. But you’re always going to be my favorite person. Always, no matter what.”

“I love you so much I spend all day with you, and it still isn’t enough for me. I love you so much, if I can’t skate with you, I don’t want to skate with anyone else. I love you so fucking much, Jasmine, that if I broke my ankle during a program, I would get up and finish it for you, to get you what you’ve always wanted.”

“I believe in you. In us. Regardless of what happens, you will always be the best partner I’ve ever had. You’ll always be the hardest working person I’ve ever known. There will only ever be you.”