The book “Wicked Serve” by Grace Reilly has garnered attention in the sports romance genre, promising a blend of volleyball and hockey elements. This review delves into whether the novel lives up to its premise, exploring its characters, plot, and overall reading experience. While the initial concept held promise, the execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a somewhat disappointing read for enthusiasts of either sport.
Genre Misdirection: Volleyball Takes a Backseat
One of the primary letdowns of “Wicked Serve” is its misrepresentation of genre balance. Despite initial impressions of a dual focus on volleyball and hockey, the narrative heavily favors hockey. Volleyball, a central draw for many readers, is relegated to a mere few chapters, leaving enthusiasts wanting more. This imbalance feels like a bait-and-switch, particularly for readers seeking a genuine volleyball romance. Furthermore, inaccuracies in the volleyball aspects further detract from the experience for those familiar with the sport. This uneven distribution significantly impacts the book’s appeal to readers specifically interested in volleyball themes.
Character Dynamics: Isabelle and Nikolai
The characters in “Wicked Serve” present a mixed bag. Isabelle Callahan, the female protagonist, is portrayed as striving for independence from her family’s name while pursuing her goals. However, her characterization falls into tropes of forced relatability, making her somewhat unlikeable. Her internal conflict regarding family expectations feels artificial, despite genuine familial support. Her passion for volleyball, particularly her preference for being a setter over an opposite hitter, is presented in a way that feels disconnected from her motivations.
In contrast, Nikolai Abney-Volkov, the male lead, emerges as a more compelling character. His internal struggles to overcome a troubled past and avoid repeating familial patterns are well-developed and relatable. Nikolai’s respectful demeanor towards Isabelle and others, including his rivals, paints him as a “gooey soft marshmallow” rather than the anticipated bad boy archetype. While likeable, this stark contrast in character development and depth contributes to an uneven reading experience.
Plot Structure and Modern Sensibilities
The overall structure of “Wicked Serve” is described as “wobbly,” suggesting inconsistencies in pacing and plot progression. Adding to the critique is the book’s overt modernity, punctuated by references like “Top Gun Maverick” and Taylor Swift. While modern references can ground a story in contemporary times, in “Wicked Serve,” they feel somewhat jarring and detract from the immersive reading experience. These modern touches, instead of enhancing relatability, contribute to a sense of forced contemporary relevance that may not resonate with all readers.
Final Verdict: Proceed with Caution
Ultimately, “Wicked Serve” by Grace Reilly falls short of its initial potential. While Nikolai’s character offers a redeeming quality, the underdeveloped volleyball aspects, unlikeable female protagonist, and structural issues contribute to a less-than-satisfying reading experience. Readers seeking a balanced sports romance or a compelling volleyball narrative may find this book disappointing. It might be advisable to explore other works by Grace Reilly, as suggested by the original reviewer, rather than investing in “Wicked Serve.”
