Liz Tomforde’s “The Right Move,” the second installment in the Windy City series, offers a compelling sports romance that masterfully blends humor, heart, and undeniable chemistry. While the first book, “Mile High,” focused on hockey, “The Right Move” transitions to the basketball court, introducing readers to NBA superstar Ryan Shay and his sister Stevie’s best friend, Indy Ivers. This standalone novel within the series delivers a fresh narrative that stands strong on its own, though fans of the first book will appreciate the familiar characters and world-building.
The premise of “The Right Move” centers on a fake dating arrangement between Ryan and Indy. Ryan, the newly appointed captain of the Chicago Devils, needs to present a more approachable image to his management, and Indy, who finds herself temporarily homeless, agrees to be his fake girlfriend in exchange for a place to stay. This setup creates a delightful forced proximity dynamic, allowing their initial reluctance to slowly transform into genuine affection. The contrast between Ryan’s reserved, Type-A personality and Indy’s vibrant, “hurricane” energy forms the core of their dynamic, leading to witty banter and heartwarming moments.
Ryan Shay is portrayed as the quintessential “grumpy-sunshine” hero. Initially appearing as a closed-off, brooding athlete who guards his emotions fiercely due to past betrayals and the pressures of fame, he gradually reveals a softer, more vulnerable side. His transformation is not immediate but is a slow, earned process, making his eventual softening all the more impactful. Indy, on the other hand, is a “sunshine” character, full of personality, color, and a deep love for romance novels. Her infectious positivity and genuine warmth begin to break down Ryan’s carefully constructed walls, creating a compelling push-and-pull in their relationship.
One of the standout aspects of “The Right Move” is its nuanced exploration of modern relationships and emotional maturity. The novel delves into themes of healing, honesty, and the courage it takes to trust and love again. Both Ryan and Indy carry past traumas and insecurities that shape their interactions and their journey toward vulnerability. Notable plot points include Ryan’s quiet efforts to learn sign language for Indy’s deaf father and his support for her fertility treatments, showcasing a deep, unspoken love. The book handles sensitive topics like infertility with grace and incorporates sign language in a way that is both intriguing and heartwarming.
The supporting characters and the interconnectedness of the Windy City series add another layer of depth to “The Right Move”. While the novel functions as a standalone, existing fans will enjoy the return of Stevie and Evan Zanders from “Mile High,” who provide comic relief and serve as an emotional anchor. The introduction of other characters, like Kai Rhodes from “Caught Up,” further enriches the narrative without overshadowing the central romance. Tomforde excels at building a believable world with diverse and engaging friendships that feel authentic.
In conclusion, “The Right Move” is a slam dunk for fans of sports romance and fake dating tropes. Liz Tomforde delivers a story rich with chemistry, humor, and emotional resonance. The development of Ryan and Indy’s relationship, from the initial awkwardness of forced proximity to a profound connection, is compelling and deeply satisfying. It is a novel that celebrates the quiet strength of love, the importance of vulnerability, and the courage to open one’s heart, making it a highly recommended read.
Buy The Right Move: Windy City Series, Book 2
