Breakaway by Kathy Asher

 

Published June 20th 2026 

Read June 20th 2026

Breakaway by Kathy Asher — Review

Characters — 8/10
Kathy Asher gives us two compelling, if occasionally frustrating, leads. Matt, the reserved almost-captain of the Boston Bruins, is a man weighed down by both personal and professional struggles. His quiet intensity makes him intriguing, but his emotional walls can also make him exasperating at times. 

Carrie, on the other hand, is introduced in a memorable way—standing in a rain-soaked parking lot with a dog, unknowingly stepping into Matt’s life. As a new PR hire for the White Hearts, a rival team, she finds herself caught in a system where she often feels more like a pawn than a player. Her resilience and vulnerability balance Matt’s guarded nature well. 

Their relationship is built on missed connections and near-moments, which adds tension but also tests the reader’s patience. When they finally align, however, their chemistry pays off in a satisfying way. 

Atmosphere — 7/10
The novel opens with a vivid, rain-drenched scene in a gas station parking lot that immediately draws you in. It’s an atmospheric start that sets the tone effectively and immerses you in the story from the first pages. 

Throughout the book, the world of professional hockey and its surrounding drama feels believable and engaging. It’s an easy setting to settle into, offering just enough detail to feel authentic without overwhelming the narrative. 

Writing — 7/10
Asher’s writing captures the emotional stakes of the story well. The characters’ pain, uncertainty, and longing come through clearly, giving weight to their decisions and missteps. 

Given its relatively short length (225 pages), the novel moves at a brisk pace. This “quick hitter” style keeps things engaging, though at times it leaves little room for deeper development. The adult scenes are tastefully written and add meaningful depth to the relationship, rather than feeling gratuitous. 

Plot — 7/10
At its core, Breakaway follows a familiar but effective romance arc: meet, retreat, and ultimately come together. A reserved hockey player falls for a PR representative from a rival team—an inherently conflict-rich premise. 

Matt’s unresolved emotional issues create obstacles that feel realistic, even if they sometimes slow the story’s momentum. Carrie’s perception of him as simply a “good guy” adds another layer of tension, as the truth of his struggles gradually unfolds. 

The payoff arrives when both characters confront their issues and finally make things work, delivering a satisfying emotional resolution. 

Intrigue — 8/10
The push-and-pull between Matt and Carrie drives the story forward. At times, Matt’s behavior may leave you wanting to shake some sense into him, but that frustration also keeps you invested. 

Despite its shorter length, the book holds attention well, largely because you become genuinely curious about how (and if) these two will figure things out. 

Logic — 7/10
Aside from a slightly convenient chance meeting, the story unfolds in a way that feels consistent with its setup. The conflicts and resolutions are grounded, and nothing feels overly contrived or unrealistic within the established world. 

Enjoyment — 8/10
The fast pace works in the novel’s favor. With little downtime, something is always happening, making it an engaging and easy read. 

Most importantly, the story makes you root for Matt and Carrie. Despite their flaws and frustrating moments, they remain likable and worth following. Their journey, while not overly complex, is undeniably enjoyable. 

Final Verdict — 7.4/10 

Breakaway is a fast-paced, emotionally charged romance that delivers exactly what it promises. While the characters can be frustrating at times, they remain compelling and ultimately lovable. The chemistry is strong, the pacing keeps you turning pages, and the standout scenes—both emotional and romantic—are well executed. 

If you’re looking for a quick, engaging read to fill a few hours, this book is a solid choice.