Football god Callahan O'Reilly can keep his blazing blue eyes to himself. I have a scholarship to maintain, and I do not have time to babysit a jock through a make-or-break class project. Even if one smoldering glance from him sets my panties on fire.
Time to change her mind.
Jamaica Winslow opens her mouth and spews sass like a volcano. One look at her uptight package and I want to coax the genie from the bottle, unleash all the passion she hides beneath a mop of unruly curls and a smart-ass attitude. She's not my type, she doesn't know one damn thing about the game that rules my life, and I can't stop thinking about her.
Who said anything about love?
Jamaica does her best to keep me at arm's length, but I'm not a pro prospect because I let the plays come to me. With the game on the line, I always want the ball. When an alum with deep pockets and delusions of grandeur makes demands that threaten my NFL chances and Jamaica's scholarship, I have no choice but to man up and do the right thing no matter the cost.
It started as fun and games. Now I'm playing for her heart—and my own.
Tam DeRudder Jackson’s love of all things Celtic led her to write the Talisman Series. Steeped in Celtic mythology, these steamy, fated mates, paranormal romance adventures are set in the mountains of Tam’s native Montana and the Highlands of Scotland. Rogue, the most recent book in the series, was named a best romance of 2022 by the Independent Book Review.
An avid fan of rock music, Tam never misses a chance to see a live show, especially if it’s Shinedown, one of her favorite bands. Her love of rock music inspired her contemporary rock star Balefire Series, a sexy fun ride following the lives and loves of the members of a fictional mega-band. Readers of this series consistently give the books five-star reviews.
Tam earned her BA in English from Montana State University and her M.Ed. in literacy from Lesley University. After a short teaching stint in Bath, England, she settled in the wilds of Wyoming where she taught adolescents all about the Celts and a bit about writing before she stepped out of the classroom to pursue her writing career full time.
When she’s not writing, you can find her working her way through her mountainous TBR piles, alpine skiing, or traveling to some new place on her ever-expanding bucket list. To stay up to date on her adventures, connect with Tam on her website www.tamderudderjackson where you can subscribe to her newsletter.
4.5 stars Finding the End Zone is the first book steamy in the Game Time series. It is a new adult sports romance tale. I have enjoyed every book I have read by Tam and this one is no different. It is written in multiple POV which makes the story that much more interesting because you get to see inside the characters which makes the story fuller. It’s easy to fall for the characters and enjoy their journey. It is a contemporary romance, with love, drama, humour, emotion and angst. Sparks fly in this sexy, hot, seductive, passionate and intense tale. Callahan is a star player both on and off the field but when she walks into his life, she is all he sees. Sassy and independent Jamaica has one thing on her mind and that is her education. When she finds herself with the star football player for a project, she doesn’t have time for his antics. But those sexy eyes can’t be ignored. To find out what happens you will need to read it for yourself. Happy reading! You won’t be disappointed.
Merged review:
4.5 stars Finding the End Zone is the first book steamy in the Game Time series. It is a new adult sports romance tale. I have enjoyed every book I have read by Tam and this one is no different. It is written in multiple POV which makes the story that much more interesting because you get to see inside the characters which makes the story fuller. It’s easy to fall for the characters and enjoy their journey. It is a contemporary romance, with love, drama, humour, emotion and angst. Sparks fly in this sexy, hot, seductive, passionate and intense tale. Callahan is a star player both on and off the field but when she walks into his life, she is all he sees. Sassy and independent Jamaica has one thing on her mind and that is her education. When she finds herself with the star football player for a project, she doesn’t have time for his antics. But those sexy eyes can’t be ignored. To find out what happens you will need to read it for yourself. Happy reading! You won’t be disappointed.
I have read other books from this author & she never disappoints. This book was so much fun to read. Love the chemistry from the main characters. The storyline was believable the other characters were likable. Highly recommend this book
Sports romances are one of my guilty pleasures. So I jumped at the opportunity to read Finding the Endzone. And it did not disappoint. Being that I’ve read this author before helped as well. I thoroughly enjoyed the story the author presented. The question is “How far would one go to get what they want?” Callahan is the big man on campus. Starting tight end on his college team. All the girls want him. He always gets what he wants. And surprise surprise he’s not a dumb jock. Striving for his education Callahan proves a few people wrong along the way, including Jamaica. She wrote him off and he called her out on it. She was also the one girl he wanted he couldn’t have, not for lack of trying. Helped by their English Lit professor who paired them together for the semester. But no quest is ever easy especially when there’s jealous girls watching in the wings. Jamaica noticed him, but she didn’t want to. She needed to focus and a man was a distraction. Coming from nothing she needed to keep her grades up to keep her scholarship. How her English Lit professor really didn’t seem to like her. Pairing her up with a jock that she’s going to have to carry. However he surprises her. He’s more intelligent and insightful than she ever gave him credit for. Problem is he wants her and she knows it's a bad idea especially with the sorority girls following him around. Does Callahan break Jamaica’s resolve? Will they make it when he does? No romance goes off without some hitch. In this case it’s family background holding one back. And a jealous streak that keeps interfering where it shouldn’t be. The author sucks you in. You will love and be rooting for the two main characters. And getting frustrated with the potential distraction, but it’ll keep you turning the page. You won’t want to put it down!
3.5stars--FINDING THE END ZONE is the first instalment in Tam DeRudder’s contemporary, new adult GAME TIME erotic, romance series. This is college juniors, football tightened Callahan O’Reilly, and RA Jamaica Winslow’s story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Callahan and Jamaica) FINDING THE END ZONE follows the building romance and relationship between Callahan and Jamaica. Callahan O’Reilly is a college football star, and Jamaica Winslow is a fellow junior dependant upon her scholarship for survival. Forced to work together on a project for English Lit, Jamaica struggles with her attraction to a man she believes is nothing more than a jock and a player, someone she believes is cruising through life but as our couple work together, Callahan slowly breaks down Jamaica’s walls only to discover his own career will be threatened by his love for our story line heroine. Meanwhile, someone else is targeting our story line couple, making good on promises to destroy both of their lives. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Callahan and Jamaica, and the potential fall-out as secrets and lies threaten everyone concerned.
The world building focuses on the growing relationship between our story line couple. Jamaica continues to struggle with her preconceived notions about our story line hero, often becoming jealous and angry at the slightest provocation. Someone else has set their sights on Callahan O’Reilly, and in doing so, threatens his future if he will not comply. As well, the reader is pulled into the competitive world of sports sponsorship, and the threats against players who do not comply.
The relationship between Callahan and Jamaica begins acrimoniously in the face of Jamaica’s inability to drop her preconceived notions about Callahan O’Reilly. Callahan is desperate to prove he is worthy of Jamaica’s love and attention but at every turn, Jamaica is set up to believe Callahan is proving her right. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of energetic and dynamic secondary and supporting characters. We are introduced to Jamaica’s friend Chessley Clarke, as well as Callahna’s teammates Finn, Axel, Baxter and Drake’ professor Dair, Coach Ainsworth, Tory Miller and her group of ‘jersey chasers’
FINDING THE END ZONE is a story of secrets and lies, power and control, acceptance and love. The premise is captivating, intriguing and entertaining; the characters are numerous, determined and desperate-the mean girls and spoiled ‘heiress’ are reminiscent of young adult story lines; the romance is provocative and seductive.
But, I do have some questions and concerns: it is never revealed as to why Jamaica dislikes athletes or refuses to date athletes, or has preconceived notions about our story line hero. Jamaica knew nothing about football, yet she was too eager to condemn and paint all athletes with the same accusations. There is also the issue of her extreme jealousy that manifested whenever another woman or female fan acknowledged Callahan O’Reilly. Again, there was no explanation or admissions of past betrayal, in this I felt there were too many unanswered questions.
I was so excited to find this new series by Tam DeRudder Jackson, and what a great surprise it was when I started reading it to find out it was a twist on a sports romance. Not only is our star football player, Callahan, got the looks and the physique of a star player, but he's got the brains to go along with it! Much to the surprise and dismay of our other main character, Jamaica, who does not date athletes, well until she meets Callahan, who does not give up so easily. Sparks fly when these two get paired together as partners in a Lit Class group project, which grade weighs heavily on both of these characters because maintaining high grades is detrimental to both Jamaica and Callahan for keeping their scholarships. What a great fit these two are in this project, despite what they were both expecting, too bad Tori has a crush on our star football player and doesn't like to take no for an answer, when she sees something, she wants, she assumes daddies' money can buy her everything that she wants. What she wants is a star up-and-coming NFL football player, namely Callahan. Tori makes sure that she is there every step of the way to cause Callahan and Jamaica issues, making progress on their class project, as well as a possible romance between the two, even harder to explore. This was a wonderful romance, where you get to learn a lot about football, but also about the works of Austen as our two main characters complete research for their Lit Class project. I cannot wait for the next book in this series where we get to follow the story of one of Callahan's teammates. @Brandy Rymer 12/2023
"Finding the End Zone" by Tam DeRudder Jackson is a heartwarming romance book that mixes the excitement of American football with a story about love and growing as a person. Jackson tells a story that's not just about romance, but also about learning more about oneself and facing life's challenges.
The book focuses on characters whose lives are closely tied to professional football. Jackson does a great job in making these characters feel real and relatable. We get to see their struggles, victories, and emotional journeys in a way that keeps the reader interested from the beginning. The love story in the book is written beautifully, with just the right mix of passion and sweetness.
What makes this book special is how it shows what life is like in the world of professional sports. We get to see what happens behind the scenes in the lives of athletes, which makes the story feel more real and not just about romance. It shows us both the good and tough parts of being in the spotlight.
The story moves along smoothly and keeps you wanting to read more. Jackson's way of writing is easy to follow and enjoyable, with conversations that sound real and are often funny. The book also talks about important things like trust, being open to new things, and chasing your dreams even when it's hard.
Overall, "Finding the End Zone" is a great read for anyone who likes a sweet romance story set in the world of sports. It's a book filled with feelings, love, and chasing happiness, both in sports and in life. Jackson has really done a great job with this book.
Heartwarming fun! This steamy and emotional course had a few interesting twists but also left a lot of questions. Hopefully the answers will be found out in the subsequent series. Such as, what did the team choose to do to Buzz? How did Tory know about the uncle?
Jamaica has a plan. She is going to study hard, get into law school, and then have a life. So far her plan is going well until she meets and is paired with Mr. Football himself, Callahan O’Reilly in the one class she can’t mess up. Not only does the professor have it out for her, her academic scholarship depends on her grades.
Callahan is not your typical jock. He is in the advanced courses because he wants to be and can handle them. As he makes this obviously clear to his new sexy project partner, Jamaica, he must find a way to crack her shell. There is just something about Jamaica that makes Callahan sizzle whenever she is around.
As Callahan and Jamaica build a tentative friendship, he slowly gets her to come out of her shell and experience everything college has to offer, football games, pep rallies, house parties and fun. Once Jamaica opens the door a little for Callahan, he comes barreling through making her also admit her feelings for him.
While Callahan and Jamaica try to figure things out as a couple, there are outside forces trying to tear them apart. As they battle those together and separately, will their relationship last?
Although Callahan and Jamaica have a H(for now)E, will the unanswered questions come back to bite them later? Can’t wait to find out!
This is the first book in the Game Time Series. As with all the other books I have read by this author I was instantly captivated and loved this book. It is a sports romance based around a guy who is a big shot on the field (and off it) and a young woman who is strong, independent, sassy and hasn't got time for games or players.
The author's attention to all details such as the ins and outs of a athlete and what their life actually looks like really makes this story realistic. As well as that the characters are so well developed that they seem real and I could definately see them in some of my close friends.
This is a sports romance with some humour, angst, and a lot of steam with a connection that Jamaica Winslow tries to deny and ignore at every turn. However Callahan is used to winning and he won't stop until he gets what he wants and that's Jamaica.
You will be completely captivated by their story and the way it is told from both of the main characters view points really makes you feel like you are getting the complete stories as they battle between what their hearts and their head. Which will win out? Will Callahan be able to show Jamaica that not all Jocks are the same? And if Jamaica let's him in will it always be hearts and roses? You need to read to find out.
Callahan O’Reilly is the elite Athlete, the Football Star, and a god to all around him, apart from Jamaica Winslow. Callahan must try and concentrate when he is placed with Jamaica, a straight A student for a project but when he gets to know her, he sees more of the qualities he wants to go out with.
Jamaica was determined to not be attracted to the god which is Callahan O’Reilly but as she gets to know him and sees he is more than the sport he plays and the pressures that is put on him she becomes more attracted and wants to find out more behind the football.
I enjoyed this book greatly, although at times I was a little confused at the totally lack of understanding sometimes from Jamaica towards Callahan but the interactions in general were heart-warming and beautiful.
The story weaves into the world of college football and the stress that are placed on athletes to perform and the pressure Callahan has just adds to the drama within the story. Jamacia’s character was a little frustrating to me although this did not deflect from the story and the secondary characters added another layer in the story.
Jamaica felt that he professor disliked her despite her always participating in discussions, asking questions, and being one of his top students. She absolutely knows that's the case when she is paired up with the well known football player, Callahan O'Reilly, on a huge project in English. Normally Jamica doesn't go for any type of athlete, but there is something about Callahan that she can't seem to ignore. Callahan on the other hand can't quite seem to get a grasp on Jamaica at first. He thinks she's feisty and enjoys getting a rise out her whenever he can. She isn't the typical girl he goes for, but something about her has him intrigued. This was a bit of a fast paced book but it keeps you engaged from beginning to end. As they say opposites attract and these two characters couldn't be any more different if they tried. I liked the writing style of the author and how the story flowed. The development and growth of the characters was great. If you're a fan of sports you've made a great choice. I can't wait to read more of this series.
Diving into this book was like getting front-row seats to the most thrilling game of the season. The story unfolds with a captivating dynamic between a spirited student and a star athlete that is as unpredictable as it is fervent. Their chemistry crackles with each encounter, a blend of playful banter and a sizzling connection that's impossible to ignore.
What sets this novel apart is the way it captures the intensity of both the sport and the romance without losing the personal touch of the characters' journey. The steamy moments are tastefully interspersed, enhancing the narrative without overwhelming it. It's a dance of romance and competition, where hearts and hopes collide on the playing field of love.
For anyone who relishes a good love story with a side of sports excitement, this book delivers. It's an engrossing, steamy read that scores big on charm and leaves you cheering for more.
This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. I never hesitate to pick up one of this author’s books. I enjoy their writing skills and their attention to details that make their story pop. The characters are full of heart and romance. This book is no different. This is a well written story about Callahan and Jamalca. One is a player and the other just doesn't have time for games or one hot football player. I enjoyed how they pulled me into their story. They are strong, connectable characters that kept me engaged until the end. I enjoyed what they brought to the story and their chemistry is off the charts. Their growth throughout is one you don’t want to miss. This is a fast paced, romance story that is hard to put down and easy to read. I enjoyed the entertainment these two gave me. I really enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend this book.
I did not want this book to end. It took a minute to grab me but once it did I had a hard time putting it down. Every one of the main characters weasel their way into my heart. Especially the boys.
Jamaica, a strong independent woman who will not accept anything but the best when it comes to her and her grade, she isn’t going to allow anything to lead her astray from her goals.
Callahan, star Tight End for the football team, definitely got Travis Kelse vibes from him which may have made me like him a little more. He's arrogant, but not in a jerky way and determined to get the girl.
As important as Jamaica and Callahan are, the co-stars add almost as much. Axel was quite instrumental in helping his friend get out of her own way and quite entertaining along with Chessly and the boys in the football house.
I am not one to read the sneak peeks at the end, but I did this time and I can't wait for Bax to find his heart.
Oh, how I loved this story. Callahan and Jamaica have the chemistry. He knows it. She knows it but doesn't want to acknowledge that he's her type. That irritating twit, Torey and the Jersey Chasers just keep getting the way along with Callahan's teammates. I loved watching this relationship develop. The little blurb of hearing Balefire's music didn't go unnoticed. Nice mention there. This was a nice, fun and entertaining college romp that stomped prejudices. Jamaica found out that Callahan had brains. The story is a fantastic read. I didn't want to put it down. I kept waiting for Jamaica to stab Torey with a pen from her hair. Like Callahan, I wanted to know how many writing utensils were hidden in her hair. The characters were quirky, unique and sometimes just plain dorks. This is a fun romp with a little steam. The library steam had my glasses fogging. Well done!
Jamaica is on scholarship and needs to pass this English class. Getting paired up with the football player is not ideal. But, since athletes aren't her type...she doesn't have anything to worry about, right?
Callahan locks eyes with Jamaica on the first day of English class and he is hooked. As they spend time together for their project, he enjoys getting under her skin. Can he get past the walls that she keeps putting up?
The banter and chemistry between these two was fun to read. Both of them are driven to do well in school (despite Jamaica's continual belief of him being a dumb jock when they first get paired up). Callahan's persistence to show that he is worthy of her time was entertaining to read. There were many layers to the story that I think the author did a great job of intertwining. The humor and angst had me turning the pages til the end.
Callahan is a success on the field and there is no questioning his charm when it comes to woman but that is only part of who he is. When he finds himself working with Jamaica on an assignment not only does he enjoy infuriating her, but he wants to be her partner in every way.
Jamaica believes she knows Callahan based on his reputation and isn’t about to be distracted from school by any man but especially an athlete. The more time she spends with him the more she realizes that he is different from any other guy she has known in the best way possible.
Callahan knows how special that Jamaica is and is willing to do whatever it takes to win her heart while Jamaica’s past has made her cautious but Callahan breaks through her walls before she even realizes it.
I have read multiple stories by this author Tam Derudder Jackson. Her writing style is amazing. Always know exactly what to write to draw you in and keep you there, and to keep you wanting more. I'm loving it. The more I read the more Tam DeRudder Jackson becomes a favorite author. Finding The End Zone follows Callahan and Jamaica's sizzling Romance. Complete opposite but totally perfect for each other even if Jamaica didnt think so at first. She soon finds out that looks (and reputation) can be deceiving. I loved this couple. The author makes them seem really realistic, with their struggles, strong emotions and the quick batter between the two. I highly recommend reading. I 100% look forward to reading more by this author! 😀
She did it again!!! I absolutely loved this book. Jamaica Winslow is a college junior who normally spends her time with friends and work. She rarely spends her time wondering about the players on campus. It in her Lit class, she meets Callahan O’Reilly (a star football player). He catches her eye and she can’t deny his good looks as well as his charm. Does he feel the same way, only time will tell. I promise that this book is more than just puppy love and fun college times. It brings reality into what could happen to good people when in entitled idiots think that they can mess with their lives and get away with it.
I’ve read many books by this author, and they never disappoint! I was immediately pulled into the story from the very beginning and binged on the entire thing in one day. Reading about Jamaica and Callahan’s relationship evolving was incredible as their chemistry was great. The characters felt relatable with the depth that they’re given as it really brought them to life for me. I wasn’t a big sports romance fan when it came to books, but this author has repeatedly brought me to see that it’s a great genre! I highly recommend picking this one up and getting lost in the beautiful world of Jamaica and Callahan.
Fantastic, steamy and ultimate page turner. Jamacia a college student with lots of sass is partnered up with the most unlikely English partner a girl could ever be assigned. Shes convinced her professor hates her and this decision is the icing on the cake. Along comes Callahan O’Reilly the blue-eyed beautiful football player that has all the girls drooling. Just one look at O'Reilly and Jamacia is Hot all over. She wants nothing to do with any jocks let alone O'Reilly, but there's just something about him that she can't quite ignore, and that leaves Jamacia hotter and more bothered than ever.
What a fantastic and smart opposites-attract sports romance!!!
Jamaica and Callahan had me hooked from the very first pages of their story!! The electricity between them was evident from their very first meeting in class, and from that moment on, I was firmly in their corner!
Jamaica and Callahan are polar opposites. When they are paired up for a class project, she is less than thrilled, but not Callahan. He likes her and likes getting under her skin even better. She wants nothing to do with him, I mean, he is a player both on and off the field or so that is what Jamaica thinks. As she spends more time with him, she realizes he is so much more. He reads Jane Austen, and he is NOT the dumb jock. In fact, he is quite intelligent. To top it off, he is actually a gentleman as well.
Jamaica isn’t like any girl Callahan has ever met. His past hookups have been casual and easy, and nothing about her is casual or easy. However, he doesn’t mind. As he spends more time with her, he falls even deeper. But, he has a hard job ahead of him breaking down the solid walls that she has built around her heart.
There wasn’t anything I didn’t love about this couple. The banter between them was priceless. I enjoyed the way they teased one another, and their nicknames for each other were so cute!!! Even though there was some lightheartedness in the book, there was also some seriousness as well. Jamaica won’t give any man her heart easily. She has serious trust issues because of her relationship or non-relationship with her father. Even though what she and Callahan have is special, and he has done everything right to gain her trust, she still pulls away. She saw how her mother had struggled because she gave her heart away, and she didn’t want to give up a part of herself or her independence.
There are so many of these types of romances, but this author made her book stand out from the pack. The characters were complex and multi-layered, and she had some real surprises for us in the book that I didn’t see coming. And, her analogy between football and chess was GENIUS!!!! This was a romance that was witty and smart! I LOVED IT!!! I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series!!!!
I absolutely love a well written sports romance. So when I saw that Tam Derudder Jackson was coming out with a new series, I was so excited. Every book that I have ever read by Tam Derudder Jackson has featured fantastic characters with a plot that makes the book go so quickly. This book delivers on all my expectations. Callahan and Jamaica are wonderful characters and their story is one that is definitely worth a read. I definitely recommend reading this and I am definitely anxiously awaiting the next book in the series.
I knew right from the start when so many sparks started flying between Jamaica and Callahan that this was going to be a really captivating read and I was so right! I was completely hooked by these wonderful characters. Jamaica is a very serious student so when she is partnered with Callahan who she believes is the typical Jock stereotype and nothing more, she is worried about her course but he soon sets her straight. I am a huge fan of this Amazing author and her ability to bring us such creative storylines and relatable characters. I can't wait for more!!!
This book is a fantastic sports romance story that is easy to connect with and such fun to read. I found myself engaging with this story right from the start. This is one of my favourite tropes and this is an example of it done well. The characters were perfect for each other, which was evident from the moment they met. Their chemistry was obvious, despite how much one of them might not have wanted it. They were entertaining and a joy to read about. This is a great story and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This was a great steamy 5 star read. I really liked these two characters. Their story drew you right in. He was the star football player and she is a determined student. As these two spend time together, you can feel the chemistry growing. And of course we had some drama with people who don’t support their relationship. The author does a great job with her writing and pulls you right in. If you are looking for a great sports read, 1-click and get started today.
Jackson's debut book in her Game Time series proves to be a winning play for fans of new adult sports romance. With its dual perspective narrative, well-developed characters, steamy romance, and captivating dialogue, this book is a delightful addition to the genre. So, grab your cozy blanket, pour yourself a drink, and get ready to immerse yourself in a world where love and sports collide in the most enchanting way.
That cover though, fans self. I’ve read a few of Tam Derudder Jackson's books and let me tell you they are all this good. I loved this story of Callahan and Jamaica. I wasn’t sure cause I’m not a big sports fan but this book will bring you to a tolerate level of sports. The romance and caution in the story showing you their love is written amazingly.
I will be the first to admit that sports romances aren't typically my go to however the push and pull made the chemistry for these college students on fire. Callahan can't resist the challenge Jamaica presents and this book had me sweating in some moments! Really well played by the author and definitely piqued my interest and held on right into the end zone!
New series by Tam DeRudder Jackson.. and its SPORTS!!! Callahan O’Reilly is the college football all-star. Jamaica is the college all-star student. Paired together on a project, Callahan is determined to prove to Jamaica that he is not the “dumb jock” she thinks he is. This is a fun sports romance with characters that are easy to love. I’m excited to see what else this sports world brings.
Finding the End Zone was a cute read with amazing chemistry. The book was fun to read and I enjoyed looking up others by this author. I do feel like this book left me with a few more questions and than answers, but that's how you read the next one? Right?!?