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Stardust, Texas #1
Back in the Game
New York Times bestselling author Lori Wilde welcomes you to Stardust, Texas...where dreams come true and love is always right around the corner
Wanted: ghostwriter. Must be female, a baseball fan, and have a great pair of legs.
Ex-pitcher Rowdy Blanton never saw a woman he couldn’t conquer or a team he couldn’t beat. And now that he’s off the field he’s ready to tell all about when he played the field. So he chooses Breeanne Carlyle to do the job—she’s got the requirements, but more important, there’s something about her that makes him want to be a better man.
Convinced there’s more to Rowdy than a good fastball, a wicked smile, and a tight pair of pants, Breeanne can’t help but be tempted. After all, it’s boring always being the good girl, and Rowdy dares her to be just a little bad. The stakes are high, but win or lose, this time Breeanne’s breaking all the rules playing the game of love.
Wanted: ghostwriter. Must be female, a baseball fan, and have a great pair of legs.
Ex-pitcher Rowdy Blanton never saw a woman he couldn’t conquer or a team he couldn’t beat. And now that he’s off the field he’s ready to tell all about when he played the field. So he chooses Breeanne Carlyle to do the job—she’s got the requirements, but more important, there’s something about her that makes him want to be a better man.
Convinced there’s more to Rowdy than a good fastball, a wicked smile, and a tight pair of pants, Breeanne can’t help but be tempted. After all, it’s boring always being the good girl, and Rowdy dares her to be just a little bad. The stakes are high, but win or lose, this time Breeanne’s breaking all the rules playing the game of love.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 24, 2015
104 people are currently reading
1652 people want to read
About the author
Lori Wilde
343 books2,256 followersLori Wilde can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to write. She even went to nursing school so she could have a schedule flexible enough to allow her to write on the side. She nursed for 20 years, working in a variety of settings from the newborn nursery to the recovery room, to dialysis. But she never lost her desire to write.
She sold her first book in 1994 to Silhouette Romance but later discovered she had a flair for comedy and branched out to Harlequin Duets and now, to Blaze.
Lori is an adventuresome soul who loves to travel. She’s taken flying lessons, completed two marathons, rode in a hot-air balloon, performed with a professional jazz band, traveled Europe as a teenager, hiked volcanoes in Hawaii, trod on glaciers in Alaska, shot white-water rapids, water-skied, snow-skied, raced all-terrain vehicles, bodysurfed in the Gulf of Mexico, and photographed grizzly bears in Yellowstone.
She lives in her native Texas, with her own real-life hero, Bill.
She sold her first book in 1994 to Silhouette Romance but later discovered she had a flair for comedy and branched out to Harlequin Duets and now, to Blaze.
Lori is an adventuresome soul who loves to travel. She’s taken flying lessons, completed two marathons, rode in a hot-air balloon, performed with a professional jazz band, traveled Europe as a teenager, hiked volcanoes in Hawaii, trod on glaciers in Alaska, shot white-water rapids, water-skied, snow-skied, raced all-terrain vehicles, bodysurfed in the Gulf of Mexico, and photographed grizzly bears in Yellowstone.
She lives in her native Texas, with her own real-life hero, Bill.
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March 13, 2015
3 ‘I wish she hadn't gone there’ stars!
Back in the Game is the first book in Lori Wilde’s newest series, Stardust, Texas. It’s one of those stories that has all the makings of a 5 star read, except for… well, I’ll cover that in a bit.
Blurb…
Wanted: ghostwriter. Must be female, a baseball fan, and have a great pair of legs.
Ex-pitcher Rowdy Blanton never saw a woman he couldn't conquer or a team he couldn't beat. And now that he's off the field he's ready to tell all about when he played the field. So he chooses Breeanne Carlyle to do the job—she's got the requirements, but more important, there's something about her that makes him want to be a better man.
Convinced there's more to Rowdy than a good fastball, a wicked smile, and a tight pair of pants, Breeanne can't help but be tempted. After all, it's boring always being the good girl, and Rowdy dares her to be just a little bad. The stakes are high, but win or lose, this time Breeanne's breaking all the rules playing the game of love.
My thoughts…
Okay, so… I absolutely loved this story (almost) start to finish. The writing is great, the characters are awesome, and the happily ever after is just the way I like it – slow, hot, and well deserved. The way things were going I was sure I was looking at a 5 star read, but it didn’t turn out that way for me – and I’ll give spoiler free details in a minute. The thing is, I’ve come to expect great stories from Ms. Wilde. I’ve adored every one of her stories I’ve read, and was more than a little excited to begin this new series. Were my expectations too high? Maybe – but an author of her talents can do better than the “I saw that coming” twist we got.
Here’s my spoiler free beef – which I’m hiding for those who want not even an inkling as to what might have bothered me: No spoilers, as I said, but this is a pet peeve of mine and took Back in the Game from an almost guaranteed 5 stars down to 3. Maybe I'm being unfair with 3 stars, given how much I enjoyed the majority of the story... I don't know. But I was expecting a great ending where justice is served and scumbags fall... and we get that, but it didn't feel very triumphant.
The bottom line...
No question this is a highly rated book, so I guess I’m the only person who felt let down – but I’m being honest in sharing my thoughts. And so sure am I that this is just a momentary lapse in the brilliance that is Ms. Wilde’s storytelling that I’ve already begun book two, Rules of the Game, and have very high hopes for it!
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation, I’m giving them an honest review.
One of the best scenes I've read in a long while...
She dropped her gaze, spied her paperback lying on the ground, and bent to pick it up.
“Allow me.” Like some chivalrous knight, he scooped it up. Pausing, he examined the cover. One amused eyebrow shotup on his forehead, disappearing beneath the shadow of the bill of his baseball cap. “Love’s Throbbing Fury?"
April 8, 2015
2/24/15: Now Available!
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
4 Stars!
What a fun start to a new series this book turned out to be! Once I had a chance to sit down with this book, the pages flew by quickly and I couldn't stop until I knew everything that was going to happen to Rowdy and Breeanne. It was just so much fun to sit down and read this impressive story.
This book did a lot of things really well. I loved the characters. Rowdy was a professional baseball player until an injury stopped him from playing. I seem to be reading a lot of books lately that feature professional athletes and I must admit that there is something about a baseball player. Breeanne has spent her life being protected by her family. Their overprotectiveness is understandable but she is ready to take some risks and start taking a few chances. She really wants to be a writer and decides to take a chance when she learns that Rowdy is searching for a ghost writer.
The banter between the characters was an incredibly strong element in this book. There were a lot of funny moments between the pair and I adored the way they talked to each other. Breeanne didn't treat Rowdy different because of his celebrity status and had no problem standing up to him when needed. The little pieces of baseball humor added a lot to the story as well.
I enjoyed the romance between the pair. These two didn't seem to fit together in some ways but in the end they really worked as a couple. They enjoyed spending time together and Breeanne was not afraid to push Rowdy when needed. Other others saw weakness in Breeanne, Rowdy saw strength and courage.
I liked the fact that this book kept me guessing. There was a bit of magic thrown in to this book that made me keep wondering what else could happen. The mystery surrounding Rowdy's story kept me guessing and I never actually figured it out until it was revealed in the story. There were a couple of other unexpected twists that I honestly never saw coming.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance. I have several of Lori Wilde's books at home and ready to read but I think that this is the first one that I have actually read. I think it is time that I read some of those books. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss for the purpose of providing an honest review.
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
4 Stars!
What a fun start to a new series this book turned out to be! Once I had a chance to sit down with this book, the pages flew by quickly and I couldn't stop until I knew everything that was going to happen to Rowdy and Breeanne. It was just so much fun to sit down and read this impressive story.
This book did a lot of things really well. I loved the characters. Rowdy was a professional baseball player until an injury stopped him from playing. I seem to be reading a lot of books lately that feature professional athletes and I must admit that there is something about a baseball player. Breeanne has spent her life being protected by her family. Their overprotectiveness is understandable but she is ready to take some risks and start taking a few chances. She really wants to be a writer and decides to take a chance when she learns that Rowdy is searching for a ghost writer.
The banter between the characters was an incredibly strong element in this book. There were a lot of funny moments between the pair and I adored the way they talked to each other. Breeanne didn't treat Rowdy different because of his celebrity status and had no problem standing up to him when needed. The little pieces of baseball humor added a lot to the story as well.
I enjoyed the romance between the pair. These two didn't seem to fit together in some ways but in the end they really worked as a couple. They enjoyed spending time together and Breeanne was not afraid to push Rowdy when needed. Other others saw weakness in Breeanne, Rowdy saw strength and courage.
I liked the fact that this book kept me guessing. There was a bit of magic thrown in to this book that made me keep wondering what else could happen. The mystery surrounding Rowdy's story kept me guessing and I never actually figured it out until it was revealed in the story. There were a couple of other unexpected twists that I honestly never saw coming.
I would highly recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance. I have several of Lori Wilde's books at home and ready to read but I think that this is the first one that I have actually read. I think it is time that I read some of those books. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss for the purpose of providing an honest review.
March 4, 2015
Rating~ 4 stars
ARC was generously provided by the publisher via edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Rowdy Blanton is the Gunslingers team’s ex-pitcher. After a horrible attack from a jealous husband (or so everyone thinks) his career is over. Now he has decided that a little payback is in order for the person responsible for ending his career by writing a all tell autobiography written by a ghostwriter since Rowdy is dyslexic.
Breeanne Carlyle was born with a congenital heart defect, after having more a couple of surgeries and at 25 years of age, she is finally ready to experience life. Breezy as Rowdy calls her, is a bookstore owner and a writer. She’s a huge baseball fan and a daddy’s girl.
Both the characters are extremely likeable. Breeanne is a total sweetheart, how can you not like someone who read books. Rowdy, I was a bit leery of him at the start because of the fact that Breeanne had a crush on him when she was a teenager and I felt like it would make their relationship’s power out of balance with Rowdy being in control but he won me over, he didn’t take advantage of her instead he cared for her and loved her for geekiness and inexperience.
Breezy and Rowdy were great together. They become friends and understood each other before they decided to be together, even though they were both attracted to each other from the moment they met. They had a great chemistry and their relationship was sweet, soft and funny at times. In other words they were adorable together.
Breeanne’s family dynamic was also interesting and I really liked them all. Breeanne and her three sisters were adopted and they all have very different personalities yet it’s clear to see the love between them all.
The book has a hot ex-baseball player, a awkward and adorable writer, a crazy PTSD cat and a magical chest with the ability to bring true love and soul mates together. How can anyone not enjoy that?
Quibbles: I wanted the climax to be different, it was predictable ever since we meet that woman in the book. And after the climax (the eventual separation of protagonists/couple), the book felt a rad bit rushed.
Random note: I really liked the names of the characters, some of them to me were pretty unique and not used that much in Romancelandia.
Overall,it was a delightful read and I’m looking forward to the next book of the series which from the looks of it might be about Jodi, the sister who got left at the altar. Happy Reading!
ARC was generously provided by the publisher via edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Rowdy Blanton is the Gunslingers team’s ex-pitcher. After a horrible attack from a jealous husband (or so everyone thinks) his career is over. Now he has decided that a little payback is in order for the person responsible for ending his career by writing a all tell autobiography written by a ghostwriter since Rowdy is dyslexic.
Breeanne Carlyle was born with a congenital heart defect, after having more a couple of surgeries and at 25 years of age, she is finally ready to experience life. Breezy as Rowdy calls her, is a bookstore owner and a writer. She’s a huge baseball fan and a daddy’s girl.
Both the characters are extremely likeable. Breeanne is a total sweetheart, how can you not like someone who read books. Rowdy, I was a bit leery of him at the start because of the fact that Breeanne had a crush on him when she was a teenager and I felt like it would make their relationship’s power out of balance with Rowdy being in control but he won me over, he didn’t take advantage of her instead he cared for her and loved her for geekiness and inexperience.
Breezy and Rowdy were great together. They become friends and understood each other before they decided to be together, even though they were both attracted to each other from the moment they met. They had a great chemistry and their relationship was sweet, soft and funny at times. In other words they were adorable together.
Breeanne’s family dynamic was also interesting and I really liked them all. Breeanne and her three sisters were adopted and they all have very different personalities yet it’s clear to see the love between them all.
The book has a hot ex-baseball player, a awkward and adorable writer, a crazy PTSD cat and a magical chest with the ability to bring true love and soul mates together. How can anyone not enjoy that?
Quibbles: I wanted the climax to be different, it was predictable ever since we meet that woman in the book. And after the climax (the eventual separation of protagonists/couple), the book felt a rad bit rushed.
Random note: I really liked the names of the characters, some of them to me were pretty unique and not used that much in Romancelandia.
Overall,it was a delightful read and I’m looking forward to the next book of the series which from the looks of it might be about Jodi, the sister who got left at the altar. Happy Reading!
February 25, 2015
In this brand new series by Lori Wilde, BACK IN THE GAME features a previously injured baseball player who is wishing for a strong comeback after a horrific beating in an alleyway that took him down for awhile. The pitcher Rowdy Blanton discovers that the person who beat him may be associated with someone in the league and he wonders if the random attack was actually due to someone hiring another to take him down. In an effort to expose this information to the masses, Rowdy wants to write a tell-all book detailing the attack. So he must find a ghostwriter to help him accomplish this.
Breeanne Carlyle is the perfect woman for the job. Although not entirely experienced as a writer, she does have a passion for words and definitely attracts the attention of Rowdy in ways that the other women haven’t. These two have an undeniably chemistry that is evident from the very first page. Funny and sweet all at the same time, I had some really good laughs reading their banter.
Interestingly though, BACK IN THE GAME has a little magical element in it that I think sets the story apart from typical Contemps. It reminds me a little of Lisa Kleypas’ Friday Harbor series. I’m not always too keen on these types of additions, but I felt like it worked in this situation.
If you’re either a sports romance lover or someone who enjoys small-town romances, Lori Wilde’s Stardust, Texas series will most definitely charm your pants off.
*ARC provided by publisher
January 27, 2015
Back in the Game gives us a heavy dose of fun and flirty with heart but then you’ve got to add a dollop of paranormal happenings on the side.
Trying to break free on her own terms, Breeanne Carlyle dreams of becoming a published writer. When the hometown hero, ex-pitcher, Rowdy Blanton is looking for a ghost writer for his autobiography Breeanne grabs at the chance.
Rowdy sees that Breeanne brings out the best in him while Breeanne thinks there more to the pegged playboy, bad boy of baseball. Sometimes wishes do come true and sometimes you have to shoot for the stars on your own.
Back in the Game is an easy, enjoyable and entertaining read. Predictable but heartfelt, you won't be disappointed in this hometown romance. In my opinion, the Carlyle family steals the stage, so to speak, but their quirky dynamitic makes for some great and unexpected reading.
I received this ARC copy of Back in the Game from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication Feb. 24, 2015.
Written by: Lori Wilde
Series: Stardust, Texas
Sequence in Series: 1
Page Count: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: February 24, 2015
Rating: 4 Stars
ISBN-10: 0062311263
ISBN-13: 978-0062311269
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Trying to break free on her own terms, Breeanne Carlyle dreams of becoming a published writer. When the hometown hero, ex-pitcher, Rowdy Blanton is looking for a ghost writer for his autobiography Breeanne grabs at the chance.
Rowdy sees that Breeanne brings out the best in him while Breeanne thinks there more to the pegged playboy, bad boy of baseball. Sometimes wishes do come true and sometimes you have to shoot for the stars on your own.
Back in the Game is an easy, enjoyable and entertaining read. Predictable but heartfelt, you won't be disappointed in this hometown romance. In my opinion, the Carlyle family steals the stage, so to speak, but their quirky dynamitic makes for some great and unexpected reading.
I received this ARC copy of Back in the Game from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication Feb. 24, 2015.
Written by: Lori Wilde
Series: Stardust, Texas
Sequence in Series: 1
Page Count: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: February 24, 2015
Rating: 4 Stars
ISBN-10: 0062311263
ISBN-13: 978-0062311269
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 12, 2015
I can say that every time I read a Lori Wilde book I have a fan girl moment. I just love her books and have for a long while now. This is the first of a new series and it doesn't pull its punches and starts the series with a bang. You'll love it!
February 7, 2021
Rowdy Blanton, a pitcher and has played in the big leagues for years, but now he has just been put off the field, and there are secrets he means to let the world know of, and there is one woman he would have write it, Breeanne Carlyle. Breeanne has had a crush on Rowdy since she was a teenager, and he was kind to her when she was sick, now she is twenty five, and she is trying to get her writing career to sky rocket, but when she comes across Rowdy and an opportunity to work with him, a dream come true but she also learns that Rowdy is more than a playboy and a love for the game, he has depth and honor. Breeanne is more than tempted to give into Rowdy charismatic smile and his carefree attitude, but all she sees is heartache in her future, but will Rowdy and Breeanne find a future when they doubt themselves….
Well Lori Wilde packs a wild punch in Back In The Game. This was just a fantastic romance, and I just adored this story. I was a little nervous to see how she would do with a sports theme, because she has always done westerns, but this one won my heart instantly. I would say it’s by far my top favorite sport romance themed stories…and I don’t even really know why. We obviously don’t see much of the sport, but I loved seeing a playboy really have to work hard to get Breeanne. Rowdy is quite the womanizer at times, he loves women, and on the surface he seems like the typical sports playboy, who looks sexy in his tight pants, but we see how as the story progresses, that there is much more to Rowdy than meets the eye, and he will surprise you and he can be such a bad boy at times….but what a temptation.
Breanne is a great heroine, I loved her so much. Breeanne has been sick most of her life, and now she is just able to spread her wings, and find herself, and hasn’t ever dated anyone or really kissed someone or even got to second base let alone third base., and Rowdy is more than willing to be her teacher, but Breeanne will teach him a few things. What I liked about her….so many things, but my favorite aspect of her character was how easy she is to relate with, I could see myself being friends with this classy lady. She is a bit of bookworm (like me ), but she is tenacious, loyal, and honest. She is true to herself and is very genuine in everything she does. Even though she knows she is going down a road to heartache, she wants to live life and Rowdy and Breeanne have crazy adventures, and they have sexy hot chemistry, but we also see quite a bit of depth in their relationship that goes beyond the physical. They do have some rocky mountains that test their feelings for each other, but I found this pair can handle anything. Their love story is powerful and poignant…a romance that is bound to bring a tear to your eye and charm your heart….HEARTWARMING!!
Well Lori Wilde packs a wild punch in Back In The Game. This was just a fantastic romance, and I just adored this story. I was a little nervous to see how she would do with a sports theme, because she has always done westerns, but this one won my heart instantly. I would say it’s by far my top favorite sport romance themed stories…and I don’t even really know why. We obviously don’t see much of the sport, but I loved seeing a playboy really have to work hard to get Breeanne. Rowdy is quite the womanizer at times, he loves women, and on the surface he seems like the typical sports playboy, who looks sexy in his tight pants, but we see how as the story progresses, that there is much more to Rowdy than meets the eye, and he will surprise you and he can be such a bad boy at times….but what a temptation.
Breanne is a great heroine, I loved her so much. Breeanne has been sick most of her life, and now she is just able to spread her wings, and find herself, and hasn’t ever dated anyone or really kissed someone or even got to second base let alone third base., and Rowdy is more than willing to be her teacher, but Breeanne will teach him a few things. What I liked about her….so many things, but my favorite aspect of her character was how easy she is to relate with, I could see myself being friends with this classy lady. She is a bit of bookworm (like me ), but she is tenacious, loyal, and honest. She is true to herself and is very genuine in everything she does. Even though she knows she is going down a road to heartache, she wants to live life and Rowdy and Breeanne have crazy adventures, and they have sexy hot chemistry, but we also see quite a bit of depth in their relationship that goes beyond the physical. They do have some rocky mountains that test their feelings for each other, but I found this pair can handle anything. Their love story is powerful and poignant…a romance that is bound to bring a tear to your eye and charm your heart….HEARTWARMING!!
February 17, 2015
Review also posted at My Book Snack
Lori Wilde takes her readers to Stardust, Texas in book 1 of her latest series. In Back in the Game, Breeanne Carlyle is a dreamer, a budding writer, and believer of romance. She’s been a baseball fan since she was a little girl. Through a series of fortunate (and somewhat funny) events, Breeanne ends up as Rowdy Blanton’s ghostwriter, and now she will need to work in close proximity with her long-time crush and hometown baseball hero. Will she be able to resist Rowdy’s playboy charm and keep things strictly on business? Or will she dare put her heart on the line and throw caution to the wind?
What a lovely sports romance! There’s a whole other side to Rowdy’s playboy persona, and his background just crushed me. Actually, both their backstories touched my heart. Breeanne is written as the ordinary girl who desperately wants to spread her wings despite what her family thinks. I thought the way she became Rowdy’s ghostwriter was adorable and slightly magical. I was a little worried that the “magical” parts would play a prominent part of the story, but Lori Wilde continued to carefully carve out the main relationship into something believable, which I very much appreciated.
Slightly predictable, but overall engaging, Back in the Game is one of those small town stories where you just want to root for the couple from beginning to end. Since this is book #1 of a brand new series, we get an introduction to the Carlyle family. I found Breeanne’s family to be quirky, protective but loving, and fun! They know how to throw a good party! So many interesting possibilities can develop in the next books. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Wilde has plans for Breeanne’s sisters! A great start to the Stardust, Texas series!
Lori Wilde takes her readers to Stardust, Texas in book 1 of her latest series. In Back in the Game, Breeanne Carlyle is a dreamer, a budding writer, and believer of romance. She’s been a baseball fan since she was a little girl. Through a series of fortunate (and somewhat funny) events, Breeanne ends up as Rowdy Blanton’s ghostwriter, and now she will need to work in close proximity with her long-time crush and hometown baseball hero. Will she be able to resist Rowdy’s playboy charm and keep things strictly on business? Or will she dare put her heart on the line and throw caution to the wind?
What a lovely sports romance! There’s a whole other side to Rowdy’s playboy persona, and his background just crushed me. Actually, both their backstories touched my heart. Breeanne is written as the ordinary girl who desperately wants to spread her wings despite what her family thinks. I thought the way she became Rowdy’s ghostwriter was adorable and slightly magical. I was a little worried that the “magical” parts would play a prominent part of the story, but Lori Wilde continued to carefully carve out the main relationship into something believable, which I very much appreciated.
Slightly predictable, but overall engaging, Back in the Game is one of those small town stories where you just want to root for the couple from beginning to end. Since this is book #1 of a brand new series, we get an introduction to the Carlyle family. I found Breeanne’s family to be quirky, protective but loving, and fun! They know how to throw a good party! So many interesting possibilities can develop in the next books. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Wilde has plans for Breeanne’s sisters! A great start to the Stardust, Texas series!
March 2, 2016
DNF pg 62. Not for me. After the third time the heroine said "nut bunnies" as a curse, I just couldn't stomach it.
July 30, 2020
IMPORTANT: Transgender women are described as "men dressed in women's clothing" and "trannies" in this book.
What I thought this book was about: a small town sports romance. Cute, quirky, hopefully funny, almost definitely sexy. But, uh...unfortunately Back in the Game was not that. Not even close. Also it’s just not well-written, but even if that wasn’t a consideration, the story is kinda hokey all on its own. It did start off okay at least! Breeanne is a sheltered, virginal bookworm with a long-standing crush on star pitcher Rowdy Blanton. She is Cute and Delicate and says “nut bunnies” instead of actual swear words because she is Too Pure. She meets Rowdy in person at an estate sale and makes a memorable first impression. Also, Breeanne buys a magical, wish-granting hope chest from an old lady who disappears without a trace.
Yep, that’s right. A hope chest that grants wishes. I don’t even know, fam.
But anyways, Breeanne becomes Rowdy’s ghostwriter and lusts after him quite a bit, because apparently he’s super gorgeous and has a Gigantic Dick. Of course. Now, she knows Rowdy doesn’t do commitment, but she’s okay with having her heart broken. She just wants to have her first orgasm. So, she sets up this big seduction scene, which unnecessarily spans over three or four chapters, featuring chocolate-covered strawberries and lingerie and champagne and sexy music...and Rowdy turns her down. Why? Oh, well, you see....
Rowdy refuses to have sex with Breeanne because, as we all know, female virgins “imprint” (his words) upon the first guy they have sex with and it ruins them forever. Also, apparently all women must lose their virginity to a man they’re in love with. It is known. Never mind that Breeanne is a grown-up human who understands and accepts the concept of casual sex and isn’t asking Rowdy for anything more than a good time.
Men know best, right?
Right.
So, at that point I got screamingly angry at the book and really wanted nothing more to do with Rowdy as a concept. He did let Breeanne down easy by giving her oral, so I guess that was gentlemanly of him? Y’know, he wouldn’t have PIV sex with her because that would make her “imprint with me like a baby duck” but it’s okay to make her come without your Magical Penis involved? Sure, Rowdy. Sure.
(Also can we please discuss how realistic it isn’t for a 25-year-old woman to have never, ever, ever masturbated in her lifetime? Really? Seriously? Breeanne didn’t need some good-for-nothing baseball player to figure out what her clitoris was for. Jesus Christ.)
But anyways, this is all supposed to be very romantic. At least, Breeanne thought so, because she wakes up the next morning head over heels in love with the man who condescendingly told her how her own sexuality functioned. As you do, I suppose.
Oh jeez, girl. Have some self-respect. You’re just fine. Be your own damn peacock!
Anyways, at this point there’s some kind of drama about Rowdy’s baseball career. Something about him getting beat up in a bar fight and sustaining a career-ending injury, some kind of super secret scandal, and a rivalry with Rowdy’s little brother. I’m honestly a little hazy on the details because it just didn’t seem to be important. All of this featured a villain who is described exactly as one would expect a villain to be described:
Yeesh.
This drama takes up roughly the last third of the book and is kind of irrelevant, speaking retrospectively. Actually, almost all of Back in the Game felt irrelevant. I forgot all about it as soon as the book was over. The entire first half of the book was summarized in the sentence “Breeanne becomes Rowdy’s ghostwriter and lusts after him.” (True facts: I sat down to write this review and couldn’t even remember that the protagonist’s name was Breeanne, that’s how unimportant the whole book was.) Everything just felt like filler, needless fluff as Wilde met her wordcount quota on the way to the inevitable HEA. It was also badly written fluff, if you haven’t seen from the quotes I’ve provided thus far. Take this one for example:
That’s...that’s just bad writing, okay? WTF.
Overall, I have very little use for this book. Back in the Game is a classic example of in one ear and out the other. I read it, my brain absorbed the words, but they didn’t make an impression. I couldn’t even remember the main character’s name an hour after I read the epilogue, okay? That’s...not good. I mean it’s an okay book, but it doesn’t really have much to recommend itself. I’ve read better small town romances, for sure.
Plus the wish-granting hope chest was just whack.
And to repeat: transgender women are described as "men dressed in women's clothing" and "trannies" in this book. Yeah, no. That's not okay. Bye.
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What I thought this book was about: a small town sports romance. Cute, quirky, hopefully funny, almost definitely sexy. But, uh...unfortunately Back in the Game was not that. Not even close. Also it’s just not well-written, but even if that wasn’t a consideration, the story is kinda hokey all on its own. It did start off okay at least! Breeanne is a sheltered, virginal bookworm with a long-standing crush on star pitcher Rowdy Blanton. She is Cute and Delicate and says “nut bunnies” instead of actual swear words because she is Too Pure. She meets Rowdy in person at an estate sale and makes a memorable first impression. Also, Breeanne buys a magical, wish-granting hope chest from an old lady who disappears without a trace.
Yep, that’s right. A hope chest that grants wishes. I don’t even know, fam.
But anyways, Breeanne becomes Rowdy’s ghostwriter and lusts after him quite a bit, because apparently he’s super gorgeous and has a Gigantic Dick. Of course. Now, she knows Rowdy doesn’t do commitment, but she’s okay with having her heart broken. She just wants to have her first orgasm. So, she sets up this big seduction scene, which unnecessarily spans over three or four chapters, featuring chocolate-covered strawberries and lingerie and champagne and sexy music...and Rowdy turns her down. Why? Oh, well, you see....
Rowdy refuses to have sex with Breeanne because, as we all know, female virgins “imprint” (his words) upon the first guy they have sex with and it ruins them forever. Also, apparently all women must lose their virginity to a man they’re in love with. It is known. Never mind that Breeanne is a grown-up human who understands and accepts the concept of casual sex and isn’t asking Rowdy for anything more than a good time.
“Were you in love with the woman who took your virginity?” She took another step.
“No.”
“Then why do you think I have to be?”
“It’s different. You’re a woman.”
Men know best, right?
Right.
So, at that point I got screamingly angry at the book and really wanted nothing more to do with Rowdy as a concept. He did let Breeanne down easy by giving her oral, so I guess that was gentlemanly of him? Y’know, he wouldn’t have PIV sex with her because that would make her “imprint with me like a baby duck” but it’s okay to make her come without your Magical Penis involved? Sure, Rowdy. Sure.
(Also can we please discuss how realistic it isn’t for a 25-year-old woman to have never, ever, ever masturbated in her lifetime? Really? Seriously? Breeanne didn’t need some good-for-nothing baseball player to figure out what her clitoris was for. Jesus Christ.)
But anyways, this is all supposed to be very romantic. At least, Breeanne thought so, because she wakes up the next morning head over heels in love with the man who condescendingly told her how her own sexuality functioned. As you do, I suppose.
How she burned for him!
He was funny and charming and full of life. Like a prism, he dazzled… He was the color she’d always lacked. He was a glorious peacock and she a dull, drab peahen.
Oh jeez, girl. Have some self-respect. You’re just fine. Be your own damn peacock!
Anyways, at this point there’s some kind of drama about Rowdy’s baseball career. Something about him getting beat up in a bar fight and sustaining a career-ending injury, some kind of super secret scandal, and a rivalry with Rowdy’s little brother. I’m honestly a little hazy on the details because it just didn’t seem to be important. All of this featured a villain who is described exactly as one would expect a villain to be described:
...a squat silver-haired man with an unlit cigar clamped in the corner of his mouth… He had eyes like a Boston terrier, chubby hamster cheeks, a potbelly hanging over his belt, and a low-slung, bowlegged gait.
Yeesh.
This drama takes up roughly the last third of the book and is kind of irrelevant, speaking retrospectively. Actually, almost all of Back in the Game felt irrelevant. I forgot all about it as soon as the book was over. The entire first half of the book was summarized in the sentence “Breeanne becomes Rowdy’s ghostwriter and lusts after him.” (True facts: I sat down to write this review and couldn’t even remember that the protagonist’s name was Breeanne, that’s how unimportant the whole book was.) Everything just felt like filler, needless fluff as Wilde met her wordcount quota on the way to the inevitable HEA. It was also badly written fluff, if you haven’t seen from the quotes I’ve provided thus far. Take this one for example:
He flopped over in bed, the rich scent of her femininity rising up from his chest, and making him have an erection.
That’s...that’s just bad writing, okay? WTF.
Overall, I have very little use for this book. Back in the Game is a classic example of in one ear and out the other. I read it, my brain absorbed the words, but they didn’t make an impression. I couldn’t even remember the main character’s name an hour after I read the epilogue, okay? That’s...not good. I mean it’s an okay book, but it doesn’t really have much to recommend itself. I’ve read better small town romances, for sure.
Plus the wish-granting hope chest was just whack.
And to repeat: transgender women are described as "men dressed in women's clothing" and "trannies" in this book. Yeah, no. That's not okay. Bye.
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January 3, 2018
This book was a slow go for me but then it picked up. The H is quite the comedian and very handsome. The h is also humorous when she starts to open up. Together they make a very funny and fated team.
March 4, 2015
Back in the Game is a wonderful story. It introduces us to the town of Stardust Texas. Where baseball is lived and breathed for most of the town folks. They love their hometown baseball hero Rowdy Blanton who playing days came to an end when he was brutally attacked by a would be jealous husband and he has come home to recover from is injury. He meets by chance or is it, Breeanne Carlyle, who knows just what goes in to recovery from surgeries. It's not injuries that bring them together, but a leopard print scarf.
Breeanne wants to be a writer and Rowdy wants to tell his story, so as his ghostwriter, the job is a dream come true for Breeanne, but soon they both have more than writing on their minds. Breeanne doesn't want to just sit on the bench any longer, she wants to get in the game of love and sex and Rowdy is just the player to show her the plays and how to swing the bat..
I enjoyed this story. Lori Wilde has given her readers just want they want, Romance, laughter, family, a handsome hero who is a bit jaded yet has a heart of gold and a sexy heroine who is innocent but yet knows what she wants. But most of all she give her readers that good HEA. I can't wait to read the next book in the Stardust, TX series.
Breeanne wants to be a writer and Rowdy wants to tell his story, so as his ghostwriter, the job is a dream come true for Breeanne, but soon they both have more than writing on their minds. Breeanne doesn't want to just sit on the bench any longer, she wants to get in the game of love and sex and Rowdy is just the player to show her the plays and how to swing the bat..
I enjoyed this story. Lori Wilde has given her readers just want they want, Romance, laughter, family, a handsome hero who is a bit jaded yet has a heart of gold and a sexy heroine who is innocent but yet knows what she wants. But most of all she give her readers that good HEA. I can't wait to read the next book in the Stardust, TX series.
February 18, 2015
This was my second book by Lori Wilde (the first one being Christmas At Twilight) and I’ll admit she surprised me with this one. Whereas Hutch and Meredith’s story was intense, poignant and deeply emotional, this one was lighthearted with a little bit of magic too. Not that it wasn’t emotional, because in some parts it totally was, but there were lots of scenes when I couldn’t help laughing out loud.
Breeanne is awesome, in her nerdy and a little klutzy way. Being a dreamer, a writer and bookworm myself, I could sort of identify with her, feeling her frustration when her career didn’t take off and when her parents and sisters didn’t support her dream. When she got the job as Rowdy’s ghostwriter I was like, “You go, girl!” I almost wished I could high-five her.
Rowdy. Now, I have mixed feelings about him. Womanizers are not my cup of tea as far as book boyfriends are concerned, but baseball players totally are so when he first entered the picture it took me a while to warm up to him. I liked his witty remarks and the teasing, he was rather funny despite his reputation so I decided to give him a chance.
There was a lot of character growth in this book. Both the hero and the heroine go through a major change, and it was nice to go through it with them. I loved the happy ending.
The book has some sexy scenes, one of them in particular is rather detailed, but for the most it’s a mix of teasing, innuendoes and lots of laughter and funny moments. It’s a really entertaining and romantic read, and if you’re a fan of sports romance (and baseball) you can’t miss this one.
read my full review here: http://robertasdreamworld.blogspot.it...
***I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review***
Breeanne is awesome, in her nerdy and a little klutzy way. Being a dreamer, a writer and bookworm myself, I could sort of identify with her, feeling her frustration when her career didn’t take off and when her parents and sisters didn’t support her dream. When she got the job as Rowdy’s ghostwriter I was like, “You go, girl!” I almost wished I could high-five her.
Rowdy. Now, I have mixed feelings about him. Womanizers are not my cup of tea as far as book boyfriends are concerned, but baseball players totally are so when he first entered the picture it took me a while to warm up to him. I liked his witty remarks and the teasing, he was rather funny despite his reputation so I decided to give him a chance.
There was a lot of character growth in this book. Both the hero and the heroine go through a major change, and it was nice to go through it with them. I loved the happy ending.
The book has some sexy scenes, one of them in particular is rather detailed, but for the most it’s a mix of teasing, innuendoes and lots of laughter and funny moments. It’s a really entertaining and romantic read, and if you’re a fan of sports romance (and baseball) you can’t miss this one.
read my full review here: http://robertasdreamworld.blogspot.it...
***I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review***
February 28, 2015
Back in the Game is the first book in a new series for Lori Wilde and it is so very good – heartwarming, heart-wrenching, funny, and beautiful all rolled into one book. She introduced us to Breeanne and Rowdy and told their sweet, sweet story. Both Breezy, as Rowdy calls her, and Rowdy have things in their pasts that they need to deal with in their own heads and only then can they have their HEA.
I loved that Breeanne was smart and funny and held her own against women that she thought were much more beautiful, and better suited to Rowdy, than she was. Sometimes you have to have faith in yourself and Ms. Wilde wrote her to be such a beautiful person – only Breezy just didn’t know it. And Rowdy had much to overcome, within himself, but he always treated Breeanne as if she was a jewel; and she was to him.
There is a hope chest that has a big role in this story and it seems that it will be the theme throughout this series. Little bit of magic, little bit of hope. I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the next book in the series. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved that Breeanne was smart and funny and held her own against women that she thought were much more beautiful, and better suited to Rowdy, than she was. Sometimes you have to have faith in yourself and Ms. Wilde wrote her to be such a beautiful person – only Breezy just didn’t know it. And Rowdy had much to overcome, within himself, but he always treated Breeanne as if she was a jewel; and she was to him.
There is a hope chest that has a big role in this story and it seems that it will be the theme throughout this series. Little bit of magic, little bit of hope. I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the next book in the series. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2015
I just love this new series by Lori Wilde. Back in the Game is the first book in the series. It is a fast paced hard to put down romance. I had to keep reading to see what would happen next. Breanne is trying to be a writer. She is a dreamer and believes in everlasting true love. Rowdy is a baseball player who is recovering from an injury. He does not believe in everlasting true love. They are thrown together so that Breanne can be the ghostwriter to his autobiography. Sparks begin to fly as the two of them spend more and more time together. I loved the concept of the hope chest. Looking forward to the next story in the series.
February 24, 2015
In this brand new series by Lori Wilde, BACK IN THE GAME features a previously injured baseball player who is wishing for a strong comeback after a horrific beating in an alleyway that took him down for awhile. The pitcher Rowdy Blanton discovers that the person who beat him may be associated with someone in the league and he wonders if the random attack was actually due to someone hiring another to take him down. In an effort to expose this information to the masses, Rowdy wants to write a tell-all book detailing the attack. So he must find a ghostwriter to help him accomplish this.
Breeanne Carlyle is the perfect woman for the job. Although not entirely experienced as a writer, she does have a passion for words and definitely attracts the attention of Rowdy in ways that the other women haven’t. These two have an undeniably chemistry that is evident from the very first page. Funny and sweet all at the same time, I had some really good laughs reading their banter.
Interestingly though, BACK IN THE GAME has a little magical element in it that I think sets the story apart from typical Contemps. It reminds me a little of Lisa Kleypas’ Friday Harbor series. I’m not always too keen on these types of additions, but I felt like it worked in this situation.
If you’re either a sports romance lover or someone who enjoys small-town romances, Lori Wilde’s Stardust, Texas series will most definitely charm your pants off.
*ARC provided by publisher
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May 17, 2015
I have been looking forward to Lori Wilde's new Stardust, Texas series. And deliver she did. There is Rowdy Blanton who is now an ex-pitcher after he was in a violent ambush. Granted he has plenty of money but has decided he is going to write his autobiography.
This is where Breeanne Carlyle comes in. She is an up and coming journalist and she is going to be his ghostwriter. Being in such close contact with each other feelings start to enter the picture.
She has been sickly all her life due to a heart condition. He has the reputation of being a real big player and uses women for one thing only.
They both feel that the other one could not care about them due to their pasts. There are many twists and turns. You will laugh and you will also shed tears but in the end it is all worth it. What a great book this was and looking forward to the next in the series. This can be read as a stand alone.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is where Breeanne Carlyle comes in. She is an up and coming journalist and she is going to be his ghostwriter. Being in such close contact with each other feelings start to enter the picture.
She has been sickly all her life due to a heart condition. He has the reputation of being a real big player and uses women for one thing only.
They both feel that the other one could not care about them due to their pasts. There are many twists and turns. You will laugh and you will also shed tears but in the end it is all worth it. What a great book this was and looking forward to the next in the series. This can be read as a stand alone.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2015
I haven't read a book by Lori Wilde that I haven't loved. It was a real honor to be among the first to read Back in the Game, the first book in her Stardust, Texas series. Breeanne has spent her life fighting a congenital condition. Rowdy was a kid from the downtrodden part of town who became a much loved baseball player. Then Rowdy is attacked and can no longer play. He's decided he has a story to tell and after interviewing a number of people, chooses Breeeanne to be his ghostwriter. As the blurb on the back of the book says "she's got the requirements, but more important, there's something about her that makes him want to be a better man". And so their story begins. This was a book that I couldn't put down until I'd finished it and I'm looking forward to more of the series and getting to know more of the residents in Stardust. (I was fortunate to have a received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my review.)
February 25, 2015
Loved it, loved it, loved it! Lori does a great job starting this new series. It has humor, romance, mystery, and even a little magic. I happen to love baseball, so Rowdy was the perfect hero for me. He was a good guy underneath his player persona and he really helped Breeanne spread her wings. The way he makes her feel special in a good way is priceless. Breeanne is tougher than even she thinks she is, she is a survivor who doesn't know the meaning of the word quit. There were so many funny moments that I found myself constantly smiling as I was reading. I also really enjoyed the magical element with the hope chest and I can't wait to see what it has in store for her sisters!
ARC via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
ARC via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Read
March 14, 2015DNF at 70%. I just couldn't anymore. Something about these two annoyed me. I may try and read it another time but for now I'm moving on.
March 1, 2015
Lori Wilde does it again with BACK IN THE GAME! Loved this book!
April 18, 2021
Former pro baseball player Rowdy Blanton dreams that the random beating that probably put an end to his career never happened. It's not a reason to not being nice to the people in Stardust, Texas, who still treat him like a hometown hero. Asked to write his biography before, Rowdy refused but he now have a reason too. Since he's dyslexic, he's searching for a ghostwriter.
Breeanne Carlyle's dream of being a writer fizzled before but she haven't lose hope. In the meantime, she works with her parents at their antique store/bookshop/tea room. A big baseball fan, and Rowdy Blanton fan, since she spent all her childhood time in hospital beds, watching the Dallas Gunslinger's matchs, Breeanne can't believe her luck when the biggest celebrity in town hire her to write his story. But at the end of the day, maybe the story she'll have to tell will have more to do with a romance novel ?
Baseball, a mysterious chest piece, a cocky but charismatic hero and a mousy heroine who long for adventures of her own, I think this book would please fans of Suzanne Elizabeth Phillips's Chicago Stars series and Rachel Gibson's Chinook series. After the MC, my favorite character is Warwick, Rowdy's sarcastic best friend/bodyguard. I love how the hero is a goner for Breeanne when he thinks he's the one who's going to seduce her. Also love the fact that the Carlyle sisters are all adopted siblings. Some details are a little dated (macho but not bothersome) but what a fun story with heart.
Breeanne Carlyle's dream of being a writer fizzled before but she haven't lose hope. In the meantime, she works with her parents at their antique store/bookshop/tea room. A big baseball fan, and Rowdy Blanton fan, since she spent all her childhood time in hospital beds, watching the Dallas Gunslinger's matchs, Breeanne can't believe her luck when the biggest celebrity in town hire her to write his story. But at the end of the day, maybe the story she'll have to tell will have more to do with a romance novel ?
Baseball, a mysterious chest piece, a cocky but charismatic hero and a mousy heroine who long for adventures of her own, I think this book would please fans of Suzanne Elizabeth Phillips's Chicago Stars series and Rachel Gibson's Chinook series. After the MC, my favorite character is Warwick, Rowdy's sarcastic best friend/bodyguard. I love how the hero is a goner for Breeanne when he thinks he's the one who's going to seduce her. Also love the fact that the Carlyle sisters are all adopted siblings. Some details are a little dated (macho but not bothersome) but what a fun story with heart.
March 9, 2015
Back in the Game is the first book in a new series by one of my favorite contemporary authors, Lori Wilde. It is her new Stardust, Texas series. As the name may imply the story is sports-related and features an athlete as the hero of the story. A baseball player named Rowdy Blanton.
Wilde fans will appreciate that this plot twist is reminiscent of her Wedding Veil Wishes series of books from a few years ago. In that series it is an antique Irish wedding veil that can grant your heart's deepest desire.
The story kept my attention and was an entertaining read. I liked the cocky ball player hero. I wasn’t as enamored with the heroine. Overall, I enjoyed the story. You can’t go wrong with a book written by Lori Wilde.
** I was sent this ebook in exchange for a fair review.
Amazon Book Description:
Ex-pitcher Rowdy Blanton never saw a woman he couldn't conquer or a team he couldn't beat. And now that he's off the field he's ready to tell all about when he played the field. So he chooses Breeanne Carlyle to do the job—she's got the requirements, but more important, there's something about her that makes him want to be a better man.
Convinced there's more to Rowdy than a good fastball, a wicked smile, and a tight pair of pants, Breeanne can't help but be tempted. After all, it's boring always being the good girl, and Rowdy dares her to be just a little bad. The stakes are high, but win or lose, this time Breeanne's breaking all the rules playing the game of love.
Next in the series:
Rules of the Game
Wilde fans will appreciate that this plot twist is reminiscent of her Wedding Veil Wishes series of books from a few years ago. In that series it is an antique Irish wedding veil that can grant your heart's deepest desire.
The story kept my attention and was an entertaining read. I liked the cocky ball player hero. I wasn’t as enamored with the heroine. Overall, I enjoyed the story. You can’t go wrong with a book written by Lori Wilde.
** I was sent this ebook in exchange for a fair review.
Amazon Book Description:
Ex-pitcher Rowdy Blanton never saw a woman he couldn't conquer or a team he couldn't beat. And now that he's off the field he's ready to tell all about when he played the field. So he chooses Breeanne Carlyle to do the job—she's got the requirements, but more important, there's something about her that makes him want to be a better man.
Convinced there's more to Rowdy than a good fastball, a wicked smile, and a tight pair of pants, Breeanne can't help but be tempted. After all, it's boring always being the good girl, and Rowdy dares her to be just a little bad. The stakes are high, but win or lose, this time Breeanne's breaking all the rules playing the game of love.
Next in the series:
Rules of the Game
May 31, 2015
I liked this book, but I had some issues with it that prevented me from loving it more.
Breeanne is an avid reader and aspiring writer. She self-published a book that didn't sell very well, and in the meantime works at her parents' bookstore. Breeanne was born with a heart defect which has caused her adoptive parents to be extremely overprotective of her throughout her whole life.
Rowdy Blanton is a former superstar pitcher whose MLB career came to an unexpected halt. He agrees to write an autobiography, but needs a ghostwriter. Breeanne ends up with the job.
There's a lot going on in this book. There's Breeanne's overprotective family, Rowdy's baseball legacy, some magical realism involving a mystical hope chest, and a conspiracy involving crooked baseball bigwigs. There's also the romance element. I liked the book most when it focused on Breeanne and Rowdy's relationship. There are just so many other subplots going on that I couldn't fully appreciate the love story.
There are also a few things about the characters themselves that I didn't love. For example, Breeanne is a 25-year-old virgin, which is fine in itself, but she comes across as super extra naive about sex--more than I expected she'd be, considering she's pretty curious and well-read in general. Also, Rowdy struck me as a little too keen to settle down once he realizes he's falling for Breeanne. I found it hard to believe that he would be so quick to commit.
I should also attach a disclaimer to this review by mentioning that I read the audio version and didn't care for the narrator. I didn't like how she made Breeanne sound like a squeaking teenager at times (especially during the sex scenes), while she made Rowdy sound like a gruff, much older man. It was a bit weird for me.
As for the things I liked about the book: in general, the writing appealed to me. The characters are very likable--especially the supporting ones such as Breeanne's sisters and Rowdy's brother, who I imagine will all be getting their own books later on.
So, I had mixed feelings about this story in that I really liked some parts and really disliked other parts. It took me a while to finish and I was actually eager to be done. But I do think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the print version instead of the audio, so I plan on reading the next book in the series in print format since I did enjoy the author's writing style overall.
Breeanne is an avid reader and aspiring writer. She self-published a book that didn't sell very well, and in the meantime works at her parents' bookstore. Breeanne was born with a heart defect which has caused her adoptive parents to be extremely overprotective of her throughout her whole life.
Rowdy Blanton is a former superstar pitcher whose MLB career came to an unexpected halt. He agrees to write an autobiography, but needs a ghostwriter. Breeanne ends up with the job.
There's a lot going on in this book. There's Breeanne's overprotective family, Rowdy's baseball legacy, some magical realism involving a mystical hope chest, and a conspiracy involving crooked baseball bigwigs. There's also the romance element. I liked the book most when it focused on Breeanne and Rowdy's relationship. There are just so many other subplots going on that I couldn't fully appreciate the love story.
There are also a few things about the characters themselves that I didn't love. For example, Breeanne is a 25-year-old virgin, which is fine in itself, but she comes across as super extra naive about sex--more than I expected she'd be, considering she's pretty curious and well-read in general. Also, Rowdy struck me as a little too keen to settle down once he realizes he's falling for Breeanne. I found it hard to believe that he would be so quick to commit.
I should also attach a disclaimer to this review by mentioning that I read the audio version and didn't care for the narrator. I didn't like how she made Breeanne sound like a squeaking teenager at times (especially during the sex scenes), while she made Rowdy sound like a gruff, much older man. It was a bit weird for me.
As for the things I liked about the book: in general, the writing appealed to me. The characters are very likable--especially the supporting ones such as Breeanne's sisters and Rowdy's brother, who I imagine will all be getting their own books later on.
So, I had mixed feelings about this story in that I really liked some parts and really disliked other parts. It took me a while to finish and I was actually eager to be done. But I do think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the print version instead of the audio, so I plan on reading the next book in the series in print format since I did enjoy the author's writing style overall.
May 29, 2016
I finished it, but I wish I hadn't. There were so many cringe-worthy moments in this book, I should have stopped, but there's a drive in me to finish a book unless it's just unbearable. This wasn't unbearable, though it came close.
Wilde, apparently, missed the part of writing class where they teach you that you should show your readers what your characters are like and not tell them. For example, we know that Rowdy is a player. How? Because Wilde says so about a dozen times (through Breeanne). The reality is the Rowdy's actions show him to be a really nice man who has hit a rough spot. There's no hint of a party animal or "bounder" apparent in anything he does. Some might argue that his attack changed him, and I would agree - but the wild, irresponsible personality of a dedicated partier wouldn't be squelched by an attack, just subdued.
Similarly, we know the "sexual tension" between Rowdy and Breeanne is heavy. How? Because Wilde tells us, again and again. A good writer shouldn't have to tell you how to think about a scene - the actions of the characters should lead you to feel it instead. This will be TMI, but I think you need to understand just how uninspired the "sexual tension" is. I'm a mom of two toddlers, married 10+ years to a man who works 50+ hours a week. I'm frequently up until 2am doing very boring things like folding laundry and washing dishes. If we're lucky, my husband and I enjoy a night together once a week. So believe me when I say that it takes next to nothing to get me going when I read. There wasn't a single word of this book that stirred any kind of feeling in me. Nothing. It was disappointing, to say the least.
Maybe some will think that I expect too much out of a book that was meant to be reading fluff. It's a valid argument. It doesn't mean I'm not going to criticize bad writing anyway.
Wilde, apparently, missed the part of writing class where they teach you that you should show your readers what your characters are like and not tell them. For example, we know that Rowdy is a player. How? Because Wilde says so about a dozen times (through Breeanne). The reality is the Rowdy's actions show him to be a really nice man who has hit a rough spot. There's no hint of a party animal or "bounder" apparent in anything he does. Some might argue that his attack changed him, and I would agree - but the wild, irresponsible personality of a dedicated partier wouldn't be squelched by an attack, just subdued.
Similarly, we know the "sexual tension" between Rowdy and Breeanne is heavy. How? Because Wilde tells us, again and again. A good writer shouldn't have to tell you how to think about a scene - the actions of the characters should lead you to feel it instead. This will be TMI, but I think you need to understand just how uninspired the "sexual tension" is. I'm a mom of two toddlers, married 10+ years to a man who works 50+ hours a week. I'm frequently up until 2am doing very boring things like folding laundry and washing dishes. If we're lucky, my husband and I enjoy a night together once a week. So believe me when I say that it takes next to nothing to get me going when I read. There wasn't a single word of this book that stirred any kind of feeling in me. Nothing. It was disappointing, to say the least.
Maybe some will think that I expect too much out of a book that was meant to be reading fluff. It's a valid argument. It doesn't mean I'm not going to criticize bad writing anyway.
February 21, 2015
Review also found here http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Avon via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is February 24th 2015.
I have to say the book started out strong for me. How could I not identify with a character who cherishes books and cannot stand to see dog eared books or broken spines on a book? I could seriously see myself and appreciate this trait in Breeanne.
Although this story follows the typical formula of the romance/contemporary genre it had a slight variance that I found compelling. The part about the mysterious woman and the hope chest that grants wishes was a nice touch. It had me intrigued at the beginning and looks like it may be the launching point of future installments.
The chemistry between Rowdy and Breeanne was smoking from the start. I liked the fact that the reader is kept waiting for them to succumb to their feelings. Many times in these types of books the characters jump in to bed before there is any real emotional chemistry however this is not the case.
My only real pet peeve about this story was the overuse of the phrase nut bunny. Really? Can you make a character any more dorky than by having them use this phrase over and over? Luckily the phrase pretty much got thrown away at the halfway point so I could start picturing Breeanne as the twenty-five year old she was instead of a ten year old.
Overall a solid read for the romance genre.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher Avon via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is February 24th 2015.
I have to say the book started out strong for me. How could I not identify with a character who cherishes books and cannot stand to see dog eared books or broken spines on a book? I could seriously see myself and appreciate this trait in Breeanne.
Although this story follows the typical formula of the romance/contemporary genre it had a slight variance that I found compelling. The part about the mysterious woman and the hope chest that grants wishes was a nice touch. It had me intrigued at the beginning and looks like it may be the launching point of future installments.
The chemistry between Rowdy and Breeanne was smoking from the start. I liked the fact that the reader is kept waiting for them to succumb to their feelings. Many times in these types of books the characters jump in to bed before there is any real emotional chemistry however this is not the case.
My only real pet peeve about this story was the overuse of the phrase nut bunny. Really? Can you make a character any more dorky than by having them use this phrase over and over? Luckily the phrase pretty much got thrown away at the halfway point so I could start picturing Breeanne as the twenty-five year old she was instead of a ten year old.
Overall a solid read for the romance genre.
March 13, 2015
"Back In The Game" by Lori Wilde. Once again, Ms. Wilde has captured my heart. This story is fun and light yet still filled with a bit of heartache and yearning. Rowdy, a former major league baseball pitcher, and Breeanne - one of his biggest fans, meet officially when she becomes a ghostwriter for his autobiography.(They had met twice before) I loved how, despite her sheltered upbringing, she could read people and understood him and how deep his hurts went. Together, they were amazing! It was refreshing that, despite her lacking self confidence at times, she never let that really steer her from trying for what she wanted, even if her attempts don't always work. Rowdy is a standup guy and, despite wanting to hide from the truth, discovers much about himself when he finally admits to it. He truly enjoys the time he spends with Breezy and loves to tease her and make her laugh. I loved the hope chest and what it represents and how it works too! I look forward to whatever is in store for Jodi (Breeanne's sister) to unlock from the chest. I was smiling and chuckling throughout and cheering on our couple the entire way. (Received copy from Edelweiss for honest review)
April 15, 2015
March 3rd. 2015 : Very interesting quote from Rowdy in " Back IN THE GAME." Luv it. "The chickens had finally come home to roost and he was the only one who could pluck them." .... well past this point in the book.... <3 and I'll check back later. :-) obtw: Breeanne's find and what follows = imagination 5star.
Totally enjoyed this whole book !!! Great Romance with suspense, humour, fun and a touch of magical delightful involvement. Great, just right Carlyle family interaction. Sweet Nolan Ryan and Callie. It was hard to put down this book... & if you have not yet picked up "BACK IN THE GAME" do make it a priority to be your next book.
My family fostered & I have adopted sisters and a brother so I do appreciate this family dynamic in Breeanne's life. Through Rowdy, life issues of the joy and challenges of playing the game socially and professionally.
The Epilogue : anticipation delivered here by Breeanne : I am looking forward to reading the next Startdust, Texas novel in June 2015: '" RULES OF THE GAME "'.
Totally enjoyed this whole book !!! Great Romance with suspense, humour, fun and a touch of magical delightful involvement. Great, just right Carlyle family interaction. Sweet Nolan Ryan and Callie. It was hard to put down this book... & if you have not yet picked up "BACK IN THE GAME" do make it a priority to be your next book.
My family fostered & I have adopted sisters and a brother so I do appreciate this family dynamic in Breeanne's life. Through Rowdy, life issues of the joy and challenges of playing the game socially and professionally.
The Epilogue : anticipation delivered here by Breeanne : I am looking forward to reading the next Startdust, Texas novel in June 2015: '" RULES OF THE GAME "'.
March 12, 2015
"I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads."
If you like sweet, meaningful romances, then this is a good read, and full of story. It is also the start of a new series, and that is always an exciting event!
When a Baseball player, with a less than pristine reputation, and a sweet small town girl, with medical issues, but a healthy love of books are matched up to get his autobiography ghost written - well we just know the path it is likely to take. The journey is thoroughly enjoyable, with plenty of twists to keep the momentum going. This is perfect hideaway reading; not too demanding, well written and charming. And a wonderful slew of side characters that will ideally be featured in future stories.
I'm looking forward to book 2 - I hope Ms Wilde is busy writing it!
If you like sweet, meaningful romances, then this is a good read, and full of story. It is also the start of a new series, and that is always an exciting event!
When a Baseball player, with a less than pristine reputation, and a sweet small town girl, with medical issues, but a healthy love of books are matched up to get his autobiography ghost written - well we just know the path it is likely to take. The journey is thoroughly enjoyable, with plenty of twists to keep the momentum going. This is perfect hideaway reading; not too demanding, well written and charming. And a wonderful slew of side characters that will ideally be featured in future stories.
I'm looking forward to book 2 - I hope Ms Wilde is busy writing it!
March 1, 2015
I am not a baseball fan but I could be after reading this first book in a series. Lori came up with a really different story line. This story has a lot of strong people making this book special. Breeanne loves reading fantasy. She didn't have a normal childhood because of her health. Spoiler. She finds an old chest, a strange old lady and a mystery. She gets it open, finds a scarf and realizes it is strange. She also has a major crush on Rowdy Blanton, a pitcher recovering from a beating. He is told to write a biography and he chooses Bree to ghost write for him. He has secrets. Big Spoiler. He falls for her. She falls for him. Another spoiler. Soon the secrets are leaked and he has to cover the story. There are twists and turns here. I liked this book and it was hard to put down. I needed tissues and had to put it down and walk away to settle down. I hope you give your attention to this story. It is worth your time. Enjoy your reading!
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