Deep End by Ali Hazelwood: A Sports Romance with 50 Shades Vibes
Ali Hazelwood’s *Deep End* is a sports romance that blends mental health representation, steamy moments, and a touch of *50 Shades of Grey* inspiration. Here’s our detailed review of this highly anticipated book.
Overview of *Deep End*
*Deep End* follows Scarlet, a Stanford diver recovering from a traumatic injury that has left her with both physical and mental scars. As she navigates her comeback, she befriends a teammate who introduces her to Lucas, a swimmer with a mysterious past. What starts as a friends-with-benefits arrangement quickly evolves into something deeper, but secrets and past relationships threaten to derail their connection.
What Works in *Deep End*
1. Strong Character Development
Scarlet and Lucas are well-developed characters with compelling backstories. Scarlet’s journey of overcoming her trauma and regaining her confidence is both relatable and inspiring. Lucas, on the other hand, is the quintessential “strong, silent type” who is secretly obsessed with Scarlet—a trope many readers will love.
2. Mental Health Representation
Ali Hazelwood does an excellent job of portraying Scarlet’s mental health struggles in a realistic and respectful way. Her anxiety and fear surrounding diving after her injury are handled with care, making her journey all the more impactful.
3. Sports Romance Element
The diving and swimming backdrop adds a unique layer to the story. The competitive atmosphere and the dedication required for these sports are well-researched and add depth to the characters’ motivations.
What Doesn’t Work as Well
1. Heavy *50 Shades of Grey* Influence
While the book is enjoyable, it heavily mirrors *50 Shades of Grey*, from the dominant-submissive dynamic to the inclusion of a character reminiscent of Elena. For readers expecting something fresh, this might feel repetitive.
2. Lack of Time Together
One of the biggest drawbacks is that Scarlet and Lucas don’t spend enough time together on the page. Their relationship often feels rushed, and their moments apart make it harder to fully invest in their romance.
3. Unresolved Plot Points
Certain elements, like Lucas’s fake relationship with his ex, feel underdeveloped and make it difficult to root for the couple at times. Additionally, the resolution of some conflicts feels too convenient.
Spice Rating
The spice level in *Deep End* is a solid 4 out of 5. While it doesn’t reach the intensity of *50 Shades of Grey*, it still delivers plenty of steamy moments. The dominant-submissive dynamic is present but softer, making it more accessible for readers who might be new to this trope.
Final Thoughts
Overall, *Deep End* is an entertaining read with strong characters and a unique sports romance angle. While it doesn’t quite live up to the hype of Hazelwood’s previous works like *The Love Hypothesis* or *Bride*, it’s still a worthwhile addition to her collection. If you’re a fan of sports romances with a touch of steam and emotional depth, this book is for you.