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Go Hard #1
Player
JOCK, SPORT, MEATHEAD, PLAYER. I hate them all. Especially this one. He's rude, he's crude and he thinks he is God's gift to women.
James Fitzpatrick might have started out on the wrong side of the tracks, but his skills on the football field have brought him fame and glory. Now he's forgotten where he came from.
Hell, he's even forgotten me, the snot nosed brat from next door. So much so that he hits on me when he comes in to eat at the barbecue place I work at to pay my way through school.
But the jokes on him when I turn him down in front of all his meathead buddies. No one has ever turned down James.
There's a reason he's got a rep as being talented on and off the forty yard line.
And now he's determined to make me pay with a pound of flesh.
Thing is, I've got some moves he hasn't seen yet.
It's going to be a long, hot season.
PLAYER is a stand alone book with a guaranteed HEA and no cheating!
James Fitzpatrick might have started out on the wrong side of the tracks, but his skills on the football field have brought him fame and glory. Now he's forgotten where he came from.
Hell, he's even forgotten me, the snot nosed brat from next door. So much so that he hits on me when he comes in to eat at the barbecue place I work at to pay my way through school.
But the jokes on him when I turn him down in front of all his meathead buddies. No one has ever turned down James.
There's a reason he's got a rep as being talented on and off the forty yard line.
And now he's determined to make me pay with a pound of flesh.
Thing is, I've got some moves he hasn't seen yet.
It's going to be a long, hot season.
PLAYER is a stand alone book with a guaranteed HEA and no cheating!
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2015
277 people are currently reading
1034 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Blake
63 books1,662 followersJoanna Blake loves good old fashioned romance, men who open doors and work with their hands. Hot Blooded Heroes is a series of sizzling stories about True Blue American men and the women who love them. She's thrilled to be collaborating with Pincushion Press on her new series! Come along for the ride!
XoX,
Joanna
*********
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Joanna loves to hear from her fans! Please contact her at JoannaBlakeRomance@gmail.com
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XoX,
Joanna
*********
Sign up for Joanna's mailing list for news on new releases, special book deals and more! https://tinyletter.com/JoannaBlake
Joanna loves to hear from her fans! Please contact her at JoannaBlakeRomance@gmail.com
You can also follow her on twitter:
https://twitter.com/JBromancenovels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
July 6, 2015
*** 3,5 stars ***
I quite liked this one. It was short, I've read in one day, which is a huge success for me being a slow reader. So I'd recommend it if you want to read something light in between longer books.
But anyway, there is Nadine, a girl who is struggling to make ends meet, shuffling between two jobs to get her education and there is also James, golden quarterback, big shot college football player. He is dining at the place she works and hits on her, she turns him down and we all know how those hot jocks love a challenge, right? Right. Let the chase begin then...
James is relentless in pursuing her, little does he know or rather remember that Nadine is little Deanie, that used lived next door to him, back when both of them stayed on the wrong side of tracks. He is rich and popular now, she is not. But it doesn't stop James from getting what he wants.
There was a little back and forth on heroine's side, it was tiresome at some point and I found it odd that his name for lady parts was "sweet little box", but that may be just my thing. I liked that though previously a player, he changed and wasn't whoring around once he met her and I liked how enamoured he was with her.
Overall a nice enough reading.
I quite liked this one. It was short, I've read in one day, which is a huge success for me being a slow reader. So I'd recommend it if you want to read something light in between longer books.
But anyway, there is Nadine, a girl who is struggling to make ends meet, shuffling between two jobs to get her education and there is also James, golden quarterback, big shot college football player. He is dining at the place she works and hits on her, she turns him down and we all know how those hot jocks love a challenge, right? Right. Let the chase begin then...
James is relentless in pursuing her, little does he know or rather remember that Nadine is little Deanie, that used lived next door to him, back when both of them stayed on the wrong side of tracks. He is rich and popular now, she is not. But it doesn't stop James from getting what he wants.
There was a little back and forth on heroine's side, it was tiresome at some point and I found it odd that his name for lady parts was "sweet little box", but that may be just my thing. I liked that though previously a player, he changed and wasn't whoring around once he met her and I liked how enamoured he was with her.
Overall a nice enough reading.
July 13, 2015
***1 Not-Enough-Alcohol-In-The-World-To-Make-Me-Read-Another-Joanna-Blake-Novel lone star***
This was bad. So bad I wanted to hurt myself. So bad I had to continue reading, because at some point, it was so bad - it was actually pretty good - in a fucked-up way, because hey, Blake cannot be for real. If one of my GF friends will enlighten me in the comments and tell me this is a parody, a satire, I'd quickly change this review to a five-star one and crown Joanna Blake as the new queen of comedy. The Marx brothers got nothing on this woman. But since I am treating this piece of...ugh, book (I guess) as a *serious* book, this is what I have to say about it:
King McDoucheson PLAYER is the story of James Fitzpatrick, a guy who started out on the wrong side of the tracks (cliche #1), but his skills on the football field have brought him fame and glory (cliche #2). Now he's forgotten where he came from (cliche #3).
James has forgotten about Nadine, the girl next door (cliche #4) , so he hits on her when he comes in to eat (cliche #5 - mind you, this is ONLY the blurb) at the barbecue place where she works at to pay her way through school (#6!!!). Obviously, Nadine turns him down because she is not that kind of girl {YET} (#7). No one has ever turned down James (#8). There's a reason he's got a rep as being talented on and off the forty yard line (#8). And now he's determined to make Nadine pay with a pound of flesh.
Player is the by-product of everything that's bad about the genre I so desperately love (Mindless, New Adult, Sports-related romances):
1 - Very bad writing.
2 - Poor editing.
3 - Unbelievable scenarios (Just an example: James gets an offer from the NFL in the middle of a season. It's illegal for players to talk to professional teams until they enter the draft).
4 - A controllig jerk for a hero.
5 - A doormat loser for a heroine.
Seroiusly, this read like what The Deal could have been if Hannah was brain damaged and Garrett was a jar of pickles. I'm actually insulted with this book. Gonna' get a refund on this one ASAP.
P.S
I shelved it under ugly cry, because that's exactly what I felt like doing when I read it.
This was bad. So bad I wanted to hurt myself. So bad I had to continue reading, because at some point, it was so bad - it was actually pretty good - in a fucked-up way, because hey, Blake cannot be for real. If one of my GF friends will enlighten me in the comments and tell me this is a parody, a satire, I'd quickly change this review to a five-star one and crown Joanna Blake as the new queen of comedy. The Marx brothers got nothing on this woman. But since I am treating this piece of...ugh, book (I guess) as a *serious* book, this is what I have to say about it:
James has forgotten about Nadine, the girl next door (cliche #4) , so he hits on her when he comes in to eat (cliche #5 - mind you, this is ONLY the blurb) at the barbecue place where she works at to pay her way through school (#6!!!). Obviously, Nadine turns him down because she is not that kind of girl {YET} (#7). No one has ever turned down James (#8). There's a reason he's got a rep as being talented on and off the forty yard line (#8). And now he's determined to make Nadine pay with a pound of flesh.
Player is the by-product of everything that's bad about the genre I so desperately love (Mindless, New Adult, Sports-related romances):
1 - Very bad writing.
2 - Poor editing.
3 - Unbelievable scenarios (Just an example: James gets an offer from the NFL in the middle of a season. It's illegal for players to talk to professional teams until they enter the draft).
4 - A controllig jerk for a hero.
5 - A doormat loser for a heroine.
Seroiusly, this read like what The Deal could have been if Hannah was brain damaged and Garrett was a jar of pickles. I'm actually insulted with this book. Gonna' get a refund on this one ASAP.
P.S
I shelved it under ugly cry, because that's exactly what I felt like doing when I read it.
September 22, 2015
Really loved this one as it was just what I needed. Yes he was a player before Nadine but even he felt bad about that when it counted. To see this guy fall so hard and completely change was awesome. So cute, funny, sexy and hot. Loved it.
July 19, 2015
3.5 stars
This was a surprisingly enjoyable read. For a short NA book, it had a good story and the MC's had some development. I liked both James and Nadine. James was admirably devoted, especially for such a manwhore!
There was a bit of drama but it was quickly resolved. None of it involved OW! Very low angst.
Safety Gang safe
This was a surprisingly enjoyable read. For a short NA book, it had a good story and the MC's had some development. I liked both James and Nadine. James was admirably devoted, especially for such a manwhore!
There was a bit of drama but it was quickly resolved. None of it involved OW! Very low angst.
Safety Gang safe
August 1, 2015
This was a light, quick, and easy story. Not a lot of drama, mild angst, and lots of steamy scenes.
Read
July 9, 2015I wanted to like this story. I really, really did. I love an underdog story. I love a jock loves the non-sorority girl story. And, if I could've ignored the first 80% of the book, I would have loved the 'we make it big' HEA.
Sadly, though, the writer lost me with insufferable characters set up in a too good to be true world long before she let these characters play nice and get a HEA.
I'd Like To Tell The Author The Story Of Alpha Male Mountain...
There's a gigantic crack that separates the top of alpha male mountain, where all alpha males perch themselves in bookland.
On one side are the legit alpha males that:
• Exude confidence, but never have to tell you how Effing wonderful they are because they're too busy showing you.
• Own their possessive and demanding attitude toward their females, but don't treat said female like a dog in need of constant commands.
• Are comfortable enough with sexuality and manliness to call a spade a spade & a pussy a pussy.
• Feel superior in all things, but aren't judgmental, hypocritical douchecanoes that fuck someone, oh let's say a stripper, then rant about how dirty and nasty it all was.
^^Yeah, well, that's not the male MC, James, in this book. ^^
On to the other side of the mountain ....
Are guys like James, or the poser alpha males.
James is the guy that must tell you he is the biggest, baddest mfer in the room vs just showing you.
"Nobody would dream of yanking my pants down."
"I was strong with lightening reflexes"
"You didn't fuck with the quarterback."
"I didn't ride in the back. Fuck that shit, I'd rather walk."
^ Phhhlease!
James is possessive and demanding only because he feels he's entitled to be such because of what he alone wants. Not a damn consideration to his woman outside what benefits him!
Does James pull her out of her hellish apartment? Yes! Does he do it not expecting anything? No! Does he demand that she rest? Yes. Is it because she's exhausted? No! It's because he wants her up to par so she'd be up to par to screw all night. When she leaves is he upset? Yes. Is it because SHE left? No. It's because HE doesn't lose & HE is a winner. Does he pull her out of a strip club and tell her she's too good to work there? Yes! Does he then turn around and think that he's entitled to fuck her because she was there? Yes. Does he notice that intimacy scares the shit out of her? Yes. So, does he think the right thing to do is DEMAND & PRESSURE her to fuck him. Why, yes! My point? Entitled prick and alpha are two very different devils!
"Take your clothes off." "Fitz-" " I swear to you Nadine, you do not want to make me angry."Uhm, rape'y much?
James feels the need to use sexual descriptors like "tang," "box," "bump nasties," "knock boots," "rub one out," "sugar walls," "tag her," "knob polished," etc and make some reference to the state of his dick every other sentence.
Btw- If a guy called my vagina a "box" and "sugar walls," I'd laugh in his face & ask him to please tape my box of sugar up and ship it to a real man.
I will say that James is one of the most persistent Mf'ers in book history. Nadine runs from him like every five seconds ( granted I would've too but for very different reasons) & he continues to hunt her ass down and nix the foolishness. She makes some dumb ass decisions and he's forgiving and understanding.
Otherwise, James was most certainly on the wrong side of Alpha Mountain!
Moving On To Nadine
For the first half of the book, Nadine, was likable, relatable, and a character easy to empathize with over the impoverished, struggling life she led. She was damaged, but remained strong. She had goals and worked her lil ass off to get there. Her compassion and dedication to the alley cat really won me over.
Then...
She gives in to the way James pressured her to have sex. Okay, not something I cared to read, but she wanted it. So, I went with it. That is until she became a TSTL(ove) character.
Immediately afterwards, she freaks the hell out because she noticed James had a drawer full of condoms. She knew he was a manwhore; what did she expect? He proclaims that he hasn't slept with anyone since reconnecting with her and has no intention of sleeping with anyone else if she wants to be together. She makes fun of him, berates him for efforts, & runs off. She should've f'ing run when he was all but demanding she have sex with him, but.. No, she runs because he's had sex with other chicks in the past. Good lawd!
She throws away everything she's worked for because she might be bad for his football career & runs back to the very shit she ran away from as a kid? Was this supposed to be seen as selfless? It's not; it's just idiotic!
By the time she runs the second time & leaves him in a hospital bed, I'm just done with her. I don't do well with chicks that live one place and clearly have their brain in storage miles away. Blunt, but truth! Sorry:(
It's just all too damn much. It's too much overly dramatic concocted BS. Too much of the back and forth between him being sensitive to a dumbass and her being hot for him to disgusted by him for anyone to ever enjoy this.
Speaking Of Too Much
The details are all over the top. He's a hot commodity college football player.
BUT, having him in a mansion of an apartment complete with a maid, a big new vehicle, eating and drinking free everywhere, free gift cards from the mall, hundreds of dollars to leave as tips, hundreds of dollars to spend on laptops and designer bags, hundreds for the vet, walking out of a strip joint past a bouncer with one of the employees over his shoulder, etc..
He was dirt poor!!! His mama is dirt poor! So he is living like a trust fund baby because he plays football & the college "helps" him? Nah. Yeah, it's too much, too over the top! It's like leprechauns and unicorns here people!
July 30, 2017
All I could think of when reading this. So...Many...NCAA...Violations.
October 2, 2017
A cute but hot story. James is such an entitled dick of a guy who thinks he's God's gift to females. I love how Nadine ignores him at first because it dents his huge ego. Nadine was a lovely and selfless heroine who has been through so much in her young life. I hated how James' coach treated Nadine like crap. However, it's a quick and very easy novel to read.
July 29, 2016
I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into in the first few pages but I'm glad I stuck it out and continued. I ended up really enjoying this book.
Once I got past James' previous behavior in the beginning, I absolutely loved him. He was a great hero...that OTT possessive alpha I love. I really liked how he went after Nadine and never, ever wavered. He just would not let her go. He was awesome!
Nadine's past broke my heart. She did grate on my nerves a wee bit with her insecurities and self-doubt. But, I could also understand why she was like that. I did hate that when confronted with those insecurities, she took the easy way out and ran and not to a good place either. Lucky for her, James wouldn't give up and was soon to follow.
My biggest complaint was I NEED AN EPILOGUE...not just 6 months down the road. I want to see them in later years, happy and settled. We do get a HFN that ends in I'm just a greedy epilogue whore and I wanted more. Other than that, it hit the spot.
Once I got past James' previous behavior in the beginning, I absolutely loved him. He was a great hero...that OTT possessive alpha I love. I really liked how he went after Nadine and never, ever wavered. He just would not let her go. He was awesome!
Nadine's past broke my heart. She did grate on my nerves a wee bit with her insecurities and self-doubt. But, I could also understand why she was like that. I did hate that when confronted with those insecurities, she took the easy way out and ran and not to a good place either. Lucky for her, James wouldn't give up and was soon to follow.
My biggest complaint was I NEED AN EPILOGUE...not just 6 months down the road. I want to see them in later years, happy and settled. We do get a HFN that ends in I'm just a greedy epilogue whore and I wanted more. Other than that, it hit the spot.
November 5, 2017
This is one of those books that you're just left thinking: What the Hell did i just read???? And not in a good way!!!
July 5, 2015
I just lost respect for the heroine Nadine when she was disgusted by James's drawer full of condoms and lube AFTER they had sex the first time. What??? Like she didn't know he was a player BEFORE they had sex? She was such a level headed survivor I just didn't buy her losing her head when she decided to have sex with James. She needed to take ownership of her sexuality like she took control of the other parts of her life.
And then Nadine lost her head again when she had sex with James WITHOUT A CONDOM when they had sex the second and third time. "Hello Girl, you do know he's a player!!!" For being so self-reliant and self-protective, Nadine acted irresponsibly and had no concerns about STDs, HIV or pregnancy. She could have at least used the morning after pill to prevent pregnancy. And James wasn't much better, not keeping her safe when he deliberately did not use a condom with his sexual history and lack of testing. James should have gotten his ass down to the clinic to get tested - Nadine getting on the pill was not the bandaid to their stupidity. But oh no....that would not have allowed the plot to include a kid in the HEA.
And then Nadine's yoyo behavior by repeatedly getting with James and then turning around and running away just got too tiring. At least she was consistent in constantly running away!!! Geez, Nadine was just really fickle, wishy washy and unreliable. Once again, Nadine needed to make a decision - go for a relationship or completely break it off. I hate the old fashion "does he love me, does he not, do I want to, do I not, etc. back and forth type plot twists used too many times in a book.
And then Nadine lost her head again when she had sex with James WITHOUT A CONDOM when they had sex the second and third time. "Hello Girl, you do know he's a player!!!" For being so self-reliant and self-protective, Nadine acted irresponsibly and had no concerns about STDs, HIV or pregnancy. She could have at least used the morning after pill to prevent pregnancy. And James wasn't much better, not keeping her safe when he deliberately did not use a condom with his sexual history and lack of testing. James should have gotten his ass down to the clinic to get tested - Nadine getting on the pill was not the bandaid to their stupidity. But oh no....that would not have allowed the plot to include a kid in the HEA.
And then Nadine's yoyo behavior by repeatedly getting with James and then turning around and running away just got too tiring. At least she was consistent in constantly running away!!! Geez, Nadine was just really fickle, wishy washy and unreliable. Once again, Nadine needed to make a decision - go for a relationship or completely break it off. I hate the old fashion "does he love me, does he not, do I want to, do I not, etc. back and forth type plot twists used too many times in a book.
July 4, 2015
2.5 stars
Well this was a really quick read ! Their relationship moved too too fast for me to get invested enough in them, and some phrases like "her sweet little box" and her "sugary walls" started to grate on my nerves lol. But anyway, the hero was smitten with her that it was kinda cute, if you need a filler light read, then this book is for you.
The book is safe, no OW/OM to speak of. The hero was an ex-manwhore but at the beginning he says he feels dirty afterwards and he's sick of them. By the end of the book girls come on to him while he's waiting for the h to arrive but he's pushing them off.
Well this was a really quick read ! Their relationship moved too too fast for me to get invested enough in them, and some phrases like "her sweet little box" and her "sugary walls" started to grate on my nerves lol. But anyway, the hero was smitten with her that it was kinda cute, if you need a filler light read, then this book is for you.
The book is safe, no OW/OM to speak of. The hero was an ex-manwhore but at the beginning he says he feels dirty afterwards and he's sick of them. By the end of the book girls come on to him while he's waiting for the h to arrive but he's pushing them off.
July 8, 2015
3.5/4 stars
Not a bad read. The writing is not 5 stars, but it was a nice story with nice characters. The hero was pushy about having sex which I would have found annoying since he had no idea what was really going, but it fit his personality and he never did anything out of malice.
It was a decent read. I liked it.
Not a bad read. The writing is not 5 stars, but it was a nice story with nice characters. The hero was pushy about having sex which I would have found annoying since he had no idea what was really going, but it fit his personality and he never did anything out of malice.
It was a decent read. I liked it.
October 2, 2015
Read this last night. I love it! It doesn't matter to me if the hero was a manwhore, what matters is that he became loyal to the heroine once he met her or once he decided to pursue her. And that's what happened here in the book. And it was a light read. I enjoyed reading this book and will read Her other books too.
February 29, 2016
A sports-related romance (football) and I couldn't resist the 99-cent sale price. But it just didn't work for me. I stayed with it through to the end though. Too little storyline that wasn't built to last and too much insta-sex without real meaning. It did end with a nicely done happily-ever-after.
April 22, 2017
3 1/2 stars
I can't lie when I first started reading this book I didn't know it was NA. I used to love NA but the older I get the less I read it. but the writing and the beginning of the story really pulled me in so I kept reading. Liked this one. I liked the storyline and the characters, it was a fast fun read. I will say I had some frustrating moments with the heroine. Liked her but she was a little too weepy at times for me and with everything she went through I don't blame her but she says several times she is strong and doesn't cry but she did. I din't hate her and she wasn't horrible like I said I liked he but there were times when I was hoping for more.
The hero is a great guy he gets around but the second he see's the heroine she's all he see's and he will get her any way possible. My only other issue was they fell in love a little too quickly and I don't min that but I would have liked to have seen more of the two of them first. I'm glad I read this one and flew through it all and all I really enjoyed this one.
I can't lie when I first started reading this book I didn't know it was NA. I used to love NA but the older I get the less I read it. but the writing and the beginning of the story really pulled me in so I kept reading. Liked this one. I liked the storyline and the characters, it was a fast fun read. I will say I had some frustrating moments with the heroine. Liked her but she was a little too weepy at times for me and with everything she went through I don't blame her but she says several times she is strong and doesn't cry but she did. I din't hate her and she wasn't horrible like I said I liked he but there were times when I was hoping for more.
The hero is a great guy he gets around but the second he see's the heroine she's all he see's and he will get her any way possible. My only other issue was they fell in love a little too quickly and I don't min that but I would have liked to have seen more of the two of them first. I'm glad I read this one and flew through it all and all I really enjoyed this one.
July 21, 2015
This was a short enjoyable read! I liked this more than I thought.I love how James was obessed with her from the beginning and went after what he wanted! Nadine annoyed me a little at times(with the running away) but I'm glad it was resolved quick. The ending was how I like my HEA but I really wanted his reaction! Of course it's never enough for me:D
Safety: Well in beginning he is in a strip club but doesn't do anything. he is thinking about how it use to be fun but now he is disgusted with himself waking up to girls with make up smeared all over his sheets, his cock etc.He last had sex a week ago with a housewife.lol these things did not bother me at all. No OW or OM. No cheating . No ex drama. Safety gang safe to me:D
Safety: Well in beginning he is in a strip club but doesn't do anything. he is thinking about how it use to be fun but now he is disgusted with himself waking up to girls with make up smeared all over his sheets, his cock etc.He last had sex a week ago with a housewife.lol these things did not bother me at all. No OW or OM. No cheating . No ex drama. Safety gang safe to me:D
July 4, 2015
Oh, I loved this one. This author writes fabulous heroes. They are super obsessive, possessive, and protective. I loved that the H constantly lusts for the h. Many times we see the passion in the relationship fizzle out once the couple has had sex. Not with this H, he wanted the h all the time. Let me tell you the sex scenes were scorching!!!
August 5, 2016
James Fitzpatrick knows his talent has opened up his world, growing up in poverty is not a life he wants to live again. Football player, he knows his time is coming before he hits the big league. He can have any girl he wants, they throw themselves on him and he accepts all the have to offer but nothing serious will come from any of them. Then he sees the waitress at the rib joint, he wants her, she acts like she can't stand him.
Nadine can't believe the ego of James, they grew up next door to one another and he doesn't remember her at all. Granted it was eons ago, but to think she just will lay down and take what he has to offer. James though is not willing to let her walk away and decides he is going to win her, his way.
This was entertaining. A lot of banter between James and Nadine. Nadine struggles and although at first I thought a little back and forth, upon reflection I think the author nailed her reactions. James has basically been handed the key to the kingdom with football, Nadine has struggled and doesn't trust anyone. Great read, enjoyed every minute.
Nadine can't believe the ego of James, they grew up next door to one another and he doesn't remember her at all. Granted it was eons ago, but to think she just will lay down and take what he has to offer. James though is not willing to let her walk away and decides he is going to win her, his way.
This was entertaining. A lot of banter between James and Nadine. Nadine struggles and although at first I thought a little back and forth, upon reflection I think the author nailed her reactions. James has basically been handed the key to the kingdom with football, Nadine has struggled and doesn't trust anyone. Great read, enjoyed every minute.
January 7, 2016
After reading BRO by this author and not liking it one bit,I decided to give this a go just I case it was any better....it really wasn't.
But first I just want to say that this story had so much potential, it just wasn't given a chance to. It was all too forced and rushed that it became instantly unrealistic.
I hated the way the author tried to make the lead guy sound like a hot, womanising stud. He just came off as a bit of a douche to me.
One minute the lead female hated his guts and the next she was knocking boots with the guy, shortly followed by her moving in with him! I cringed during most of the sex scenes because they were just so cheesy it was unreal.
Oh and he repeatedly called her lady parts her "no mate, just....no"
Everything moved way too fast for me in this book and the story had no real depth at all.
I can't say liked the lead femal or the lead male very much either.
Sorry but this book did nothing for me.
But first I just want to say that this story had so much potential, it just wasn't given a chance to. It was all too forced and rushed that it became instantly unrealistic.
I hated the way the author tried to make the lead guy sound like a hot, womanising stud. He just came off as a bit of a douche to me.
One minute the lead female hated his guts and the next she was knocking boots with the guy, shortly followed by her moving in with him! I cringed during most of the sex scenes because they were just so cheesy it was unreal.
Oh and he repeatedly called her lady parts her "no mate, just....no"
Everything moved way too fast for me in this book and the story had no real depth at all.
I can't say liked the lead femal or the lead male very much either.
Sorry but this book did nothing for me.
August 5, 2015
BASICS
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? Maybe, but not for now.
Rating: 3 stars
Review
This one has definitely insta-love from H's point of view but h wasn't far behind. It is a short sweet love story and the best parts for me are the ones that involve the cat. I don't know if it just me or what, but I feel those scenes have the most variable emotions tied to them. Loved the epilogue, so sweet.
The only thing that bothers me is how insecure the h is. If not for that, there would be no problems in their relationship. Still, it's a good book :)
Love triangle?
Cheating?
HEA?
Any Descriptive Sex w/OW/OM/Ex?
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? Maybe, but not for now.
Rating: 3 stars
Review
This one has definitely insta-love from H's point of view but h wasn't far behind. It is a short sweet love story and the best parts for me are the ones that involve the cat. I don't know if it just me or what, but I feel those scenes have the most variable emotions tied to them. Loved the epilogue, so sweet.
The only thing that bothers me is how insecure the h is. If not for that, there would be no problems in their relationship. Still, it's a good book :)
May 11, 2017
pretty clichè book- possessive alpha hero + sweet , at times feisty determined poor barely meeting the needs heroine + lust at first sight + hero being the care taker + hero keeps chasing the heroine + step father trying to rape her.
so yeah believe me i love clichè like this so, what i can say about the book is that the book sure had the potential but it was nothing special and it kinda feel like a mess to me -.-
so yeah believe me i love clichè like this so, what i can say about the book is that the book sure had the potential but it was nothing special and it kinda feel like a mess to me -.-
May 2, 2016
The second half was better than the first, however I've still only given it 3 stars because it felt rushed! It was readable, add the fact that it only pee'd me off a few times but it's a solid story....I doubt it'll be in my re-read list though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2015
Playa.
July 3, 2015
I just love this author's books...they are the perfect sexy, funny and down-to-earth type of romantic read that always make me feel happy.
James is that handsome lady-killer jock who has a bright future in the big leagues and all the women falling at his feet and into his bed.
Nadine is the object of his affection...a hard-working student who is waiting tables and trying to make ends meet, but failing miserably. These two have a history, having grown up as next door neighbors, until the day Nadine ran away to escape from a miserable home life. She is the one woman James wants but can't have until his charming and bossy methods break down her walls.
I think what appeals to me is that even though this is a simple story and one that has been done before (man-whore jock succumbs and changes his ways for the right girl), there is just something really special with the way Joanna Blake writes her characters...sweet, sexy, relatable and extremely likeable. Another wonderful romantic summer read to take to the beach and enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
***** 4.5 ***** "I'm keeping you forever" stars
James is that handsome lady-killer jock who has a bright future in the big leagues and all the women falling at his feet and into his bed.
Nadine is the object of his affection...a hard-working student who is waiting tables and trying to make ends meet, but failing miserably. These two have a history, having grown up as next door neighbors, until the day Nadine ran away to escape from a miserable home life. She is the one woman James wants but can't have until his charming and bossy methods break down her walls.
I think what appeals to me is that even though this is a simple story and one that has been done before (man-whore jock succumbs and changes his ways for the right girl), there is just something really special with the way Joanna Blake writes her characters...sweet, sexy, relatable and extremely likeable. Another wonderful romantic summer read to take to the beach and enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
***** 4.5 ***** "I'm keeping you forever" stars
July 8, 2015
2.5 stars
Plot: C-
I didn't really care for the plot. It was kind of cliche, and wasn't done as well as I would've liked. I didn't connect with the characters. And all the running from feelings was annoying. It seemed more like some teenager's dream. There were some continuity issues. Like James mentioning FSU in reference to Miami (though I believe it's in Tallahassee) and then later saying University of Miami. Also, things like being given a car, apartment, cash, etc...seems like it's against the NCAA rules, but I'm not an expert. Things like that threw me off.
Characters: C-
I didn't connect with the characters. Nadine had a hard life, but instead of being sympathetic, I was indifferent. The author didn't make us Feel what happened to her. The full story from start to finish, and not in bits and pieces might have helped.
James wasn't that great of an H. He seems too cocky. And while I usually enjoy some possessiveness, his rubbed me the wrong way. He also could have been an interesting character, overcoming adversity and whatnot, but he just seemed entitled.
Heat:C
The scenes were mildly ok. I didn't care for the h's lady bits being called a "box."
Plot: C-
I didn't really care for the plot. It was kind of cliche, and wasn't done as well as I would've liked. I didn't connect with the characters. And all the running from feelings was annoying. It seemed more like some teenager's dream. There were some continuity issues. Like James mentioning FSU in reference to Miami (though I believe it's in Tallahassee) and then later saying University of Miami. Also, things like being given a car, apartment, cash, etc...seems like it's against the NCAA rules, but I'm not an expert. Things like that threw me off.
Characters: C-
I didn't connect with the characters. Nadine had a hard life, but instead of being sympathetic, I was indifferent. The author didn't make us Feel what happened to her. The full story from start to finish, and not in bits and pieces might have helped.
James wasn't that great of an H. He seems too cocky. And while I usually enjoy some possessiveness, his rubbed me the wrong way. He also could have been an interesting character, overcoming adversity and whatnot, but he just seemed entitled.
Heat:C
The scenes were mildly ok. I didn't care for the h's lady bits being called a "box."
July 6, 2015
Joanna is one of those authors that gets better with time. Her stories are always amazing but her writing has taken on a whole new level with PLAYER! I thoroughly enjoy the fact that her men get hit by the bug as soon as they see their girls, It’s actually one of the reasons I’m always going back for more and can reread her books many times.
James and Nadine have a past, but James was oblivious to it until she puts him in his place (I love this girls attitude) she thinks he’ll be turned off and boy is she wrong!
Nadine is broken, like so broken she keeps screwing things up with James and he’s still trying to win her. Their story is one about trust. It takes more than sweet words for James to win Nadine over and I think I like that best.
I have to say this was most definitely Joanna’s best book this year maybe ever! She nailed it!
10 amazing stars from NADBB!!
Reviewed by Krystal.
PS Did I mention there’s a touch of kink and submission? (Not in the bdsm sense) But enough to tantalize your senses!
James and Nadine have a past, but James was oblivious to it until she puts him in his place (I love this girls attitude) she thinks he’ll be turned off and boy is she wrong!
Nadine is broken, like so broken she keeps screwing things up with James and he’s still trying to win her. Their story is one about trust. It takes more than sweet words for James to win Nadine over and I think I like that best.
I have to say this was most definitely Joanna’s best book this year maybe ever! She nailed it!
10 amazing stars from NADBB!!
Reviewed by Krystal.
PS Did I mention there’s a touch of kink and submission? (Not in the bdsm sense) But enough to tantalize your senses!
July 30, 2015
A broken heroine, plenty of steamy scenes, and an alpha male that refuses to take no for an answer; all make for a good, fun read.
James "Fitz" Fitzpatrick is an up and coming football star who can have anyone he wants and as set his sites on Nadine.
Nadine, has not time relationship, really she has no time for anyone as she spends every moment working and going to school so she does not end up like her mother. She shuns guys away because of a bit of a difficult past. Between James cockiness and Nadine continuing to run away from a relationship, the authors manages to keep you entertained throughout the book and wanting to read.
Only a few things bothered me with the story, the use of the words "hot little box." And there was a situation with the football coach which I felt was left opened and he should have been dealt with in some way.
Overall I enjoyed it and I will definitely be looking for more from Joanna Blake
James "Fitz" Fitzpatrick is an up and coming football star who can have anyone he wants and as set his sites on Nadine.
Nadine, has not time relationship, really she has no time for anyone as she spends every moment working and going to school so she does not end up like her mother. She shuns guys away because of a bit of a difficult past. Between James cockiness and Nadine continuing to run away from a relationship, the authors manages to keep you entertained throughout the book and wanting to read.
Only a few things bothered me with the story, the use of the words "hot little box." And there was a situation with the football coach which I felt was left opened and he should have been dealt with in some way.
Overall I enjoyed it and I will definitely be looking for more from Joanna Blake
July 3, 2015
Given a copy for an honest review! Joanna Blake always finds a way to make you fall in love with her characters. James "Fitzy" is a star player and Nadine "Deanie" is a girl that is a survivor with a lot of determination. Nadine left a life behind but she never forgot the boy next door. James worked at making a clear future for himself even with the supporters he still needed to work. What he didn't expect was the girl from his childhood to come in and tackle his world. These two were a perfect match for each other. James is the ultimate protector and Nadine is the ultimate fighter. The thing is when you fall will there be someone to catch you or will there be no net. Do you remember the boy or girl next door? What would you do if you had a second chance to connect with them? Love Joanna Blake's work and I always look forward to more.
July 24, 2015
So this was sort of a weird one for me. I really love sexy alpha males more than anything, but seemed like sometimes James almost hit deranged! He was very sweet, but then angry at the same time. I didn't feel much build to their relationship, but they did already have history. If he wasn't so aggressive with Nadine at times, I think I really would have loved him a lot more. Honestly at times it felt a bit rape-y to me. As far as what Nadine thought though, she was fine with it. I think James has a little bit of the Christian Grey kink going on, which again no issues with that. Maybe it seemed just a little forced? Like the author was trying too hard to push their relationship. Overall, though it was a cute story with a mostly sweet alpha male, who just wanted to love and protect his woman.
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