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Stardust, Texas #3
Love of the Game
A sexy sports superstar discovers his body isn’t the only thing that needs healing in this newest Stardust, Texas novel from New York Times bestselling author Lori Wilde.
With major league good looks and talent, Dallas Gunslingers relief pitcher Axel Richmond was living the good life. Even if the roar of the crowd could never distract him from the loss of his young son. But now with an injured shoulder and his career on the line, Axel is stuck recuperating at a ranch in Stardust, Texas . . . striking out only with his gorgeous physical therapist.
Kasha Carlyle has one week to get Axel back in action or she can kiss her much-needed job with the Gunslingers goodbye. And any chance to seek custody of the orphaned half-sister she never knew existed. She quickly learns that Axel’s guarded heart also needs healing . . . requiring all kinds of sneaky plays and sexy moves in extra innings.
Praise for Lori Wilde’s Stardust, Texas Series and Love Of The Game
“Amusing, passionate, and rampant with sexual tension, this magic dusted escapade is just plain fun and a wonderful harbinger of things to come. Wilde is an expert at developing endearing Texas communities and here gives fans another one to savor.”—Library Journal
“[A] sweet and sexy story of first love, small towns, and family.”—Booklist
“Wilde brings readers to Stardust, Texas, where baseball and romance are the name of the game . . . Wilde has another winner.”—RT Book Reviews
With major league good looks and talent, Dallas Gunslingers relief pitcher Axel Richmond was living the good life. Even if the roar of the crowd could never distract him from the loss of his young son. But now with an injured shoulder and his career on the line, Axel is stuck recuperating at a ranch in Stardust, Texas . . . striking out only with his gorgeous physical therapist.
Kasha Carlyle has one week to get Axel back in action or she can kiss her much-needed job with the Gunslingers goodbye. And any chance to seek custody of the orphaned half-sister she never knew existed. She quickly learns that Axel’s guarded heart also needs healing . . . requiring all kinds of sneaky plays and sexy moves in extra innings.
Praise for Lori Wilde’s Stardust, Texas Series and Love Of The Game
“Amusing, passionate, and rampant with sexual tension, this magic dusted escapade is just plain fun and a wonderful harbinger of things to come. Wilde is an expert at developing endearing Texas communities and here gives fans another one to savor.”—Library Journal
“[A] sweet and sexy story of first love, small towns, and family.”—Booklist
“Wilde brings readers to Stardust, Texas, where baseball and romance are the name of the game . . . Wilde has another winner.”—RT Book Reviews
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2016
131 people are currently reading
715 people want to read
About the author
Lori Wilde
379 books2,266 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
April 26, 2016
This review was also posted at Carole's Random Life
I really liked this romantic story. This is the third book in the Stardust, Texas series but I think it would read perfectly fine as a stand alone novel. I did read and enjoy the first book in the series so I knew that I was in for a treat when I picked up this newest installment. I was not disappointed. The characters were interesting and the romance was really sweet with a lot of chemistry. It was a really nice romance to get lost in for a little while.
Kasha was a really interesting character. She has had a troubled past until she joined the Carlyle family. She is very cautious about how she approaches things and has a strong need to always be in control of her emotions. She has just started working for the Gunslingers as a physical therapist and is trying to stay under the radar during her probationary period. Everything changes when she gives her honest opinion about Axel's recovery plan.
Axel is the star pitcher for the Gunslingers. He is working really hard to get his shoulder healed so that he can start playing again. Axel is the type of player who pushes himself and he has a very hard time getting used to the idea that what his shoulder may actually need is a bit of rest. He is very goal focused with dreams of eventually playing for the Yankees in the World Series never far from his mind.
I liked Axel and Kasha together. There is a lot of chemistry between the pair from the very beginning. They don't actually act on any of their feelings for a long time in the story and I think the build up made everything sweeter when things really started to happen. They were both so thoughtful of each other and really took each other's needs into consideration. They both have dealt with major issues in their past that have shaped their outlook in life. I thought that they were really good for each other.
The only thing that drove me a bit crazy was the way that Kasha's sister, Emma, was constantly compared to a child. She is not a child. She is an adult with Down's Syndrome which is a very different thing. I spent a lot of years working individuals with developmental disabilities and this is one thing that always drives me crazy. Kasha does learn a lot about his sister during the story and by the end of the book she does adjust her thinking by the end of the story.
I would recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance. This story doesn't really have a strong sports theme even though one of the main characters plays a sport. I have read and enjoyed several other books by Lori Wilde. I do plan to read more from this very talented author including other books from this series. I really want to know what else is in that hope chest!
I received a review copy of this book from Harper Collins Publishers - Avon for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thoughts
I liked this sweet romantic story. Axel and Kasha were both pretty awesome. It did bug me that Emma was treated like a child because of her developmental disability for much of the story. Part of Kasha's growth was to realize that an adult with a developmental disability is very different than a child.
I really liked this romantic story. This is the third book in the Stardust, Texas series but I think it would read perfectly fine as a stand alone novel. I did read and enjoy the first book in the series so I knew that I was in for a treat when I picked up this newest installment. I was not disappointed. The characters were interesting and the romance was really sweet with a lot of chemistry. It was a really nice romance to get lost in for a little while.
Kasha was a really interesting character. She has had a troubled past until she joined the Carlyle family. She is very cautious about how she approaches things and has a strong need to always be in control of her emotions. She has just started working for the Gunslingers as a physical therapist and is trying to stay under the radar during her probationary period. Everything changes when she gives her honest opinion about Axel's recovery plan.
Axel is the star pitcher for the Gunslingers. He is working really hard to get his shoulder healed so that he can start playing again. Axel is the type of player who pushes himself and he has a very hard time getting used to the idea that what his shoulder may actually need is a bit of rest. He is very goal focused with dreams of eventually playing for the Yankees in the World Series never far from his mind.
I liked Axel and Kasha together. There is a lot of chemistry between the pair from the very beginning. They don't actually act on any of their feelings for a long time in the story and I think the build up made everything sweeter when things really started to happen. They were both so thoughtful of each other and really took each other's needs into consideration. They both have dealt with major issues in their past that have shaped their outlook in life. I thought that they were really good for each other.
The only thing that drove me a bit crazy was the way that Kasha's sister, Emma, was constantly compared to a child. She is not a child. She is an adult with Down's Syndrome which is a very different thing. I spent a lot of years working individuals with developmental disabilities and this is one thing that always drives me crazy. Kasha does learn a lot about his sister during the story and by the end of the book she does adjust her thinking by the end of the story.
I would recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance. This story doesn't really have a strong sports theme even though one of the main characters plays a sport. I have read and enjoyed several other books by Lori Wilde. I do plan to read more from this very talented author including other books from this series. I really want to know what else is in that hope chest!
I received a review copy of this book from Harper Collins Publishers - Avon for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thoughts
I liked this sweet romantic story. Axel and Kasha were both pretty awesome. It did bug me that Emma was treated like a child because of her developmental disability for much of the story. Part of Kasha's growth was to realize that an adult with a developmental disability is very different than a child.
April 6, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Love Of The Game is the most recent installment of the Stardust Texas series by Lori Wilde. We are introduced to Axel Richmond, who is the pitcher for the Gunslingers...his goal is to keep playing the game that he loves. When his shoulder gets injured, he has two choices: undergo a dangerous surgery that has no guarantee or go through a yoga themed exercise with Kasha Carlyle. He is doubtful at first, but his attraction to Kasha is undeniable. Kasha needs this job, when she discovers that she has a long lost sister with down syndrome....she will do anything to gain custody of her.
The chemistry between Kasha and Axel steaming hot, but both of them have reasons for not submitting to their desires for each other. As they work together in healing Axel's injury, they bond to each other at first on a platonic level. Learning each other, and helping each other with emotional diffuculties and their friendship turns into passion. But their relationship is forbidden unless Kasha quits a job she loves and the means to support her sister Emma. I enjoyed this story but not as much as the two previous books. Mostly because the flow of the story seems a bit harder to get into at times. But I had such a fun time with these two. They were so sweet together, and there were many memorable moments in this one. And I did get a bit teary eyed at certain times. Definitely a fun and charming romance to read.
[foogallery id="20567"]
Love Of The Game is the most recent installment of the Stardust Texas series by Lori Wilde. We are introduced to Axel Richmond, who is the pitcher for the Gunslingers...his goal is to keep playing the game that he loves. When his shoulder gets injured, he has two choices: undergo a dangerous surgery that has no guarantee or go through a yoga themed exercise with Kasha Carlyle. He is doubtful at first, but his attraction to Kasha is undeniable. Kasha needs this job, when she discovers that she has a long lost sister with down syndrome....she will do anything to gain custody of her.
The chemistry between Kasha and Axel steaming hot, but both of them have reasons for not submitting to their desires for each other. As they work together in healing Axel's injury, they bond to each other at first on a platonic level. Learning each other, and helping each other with emotional diffuculties and their friendship turns into passion. But their relationship is forbidden unless Kasha quits a job she loves and the means to support her sister Emma. I enjoyed this story but not as much as the two previous books. Mostly because the flow of the story seems a bit harder to get into at times. But I had such a fun time with these two. They were so sweet together, and there were many memorable moments in this one. And I did get a bit teary eyed at certain times. Definitely a fun and charming romance to read.
[foogallery id="20567"]
November 19, 2025
A pro-baseball player, Axel, facing a risky surgery to repair his injured shoulder…with no guarantees of success.
A physical therapist, Kasha, desperately needing a job on probation with the Dallas Gunslingers is faced with a decision that might break or make her career.
Axel is being pressured by the Gunslingers to have a high risk experimental surgery. He asks Kasha for her opinion and she tells him and her colleges she believes therapy is Axel’s best option. Given the task to oversee and maintain Axel’s therapy choice, Kasha’s career and livelihood lay on her and Axel’s success. The chemistry explodes but professionalism is an utmost importance for both Axel and Kasha.
This is a building romance where friendship and emotional connection play a major role in bond that develops. The couple is sweet with heartfelt emotions that leads to a very charming and entertaining read.
I received this ARC copy of Love of the Game from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 26, 2016.
A physical therapist, Kasha, desperately needing a job on probation with the Dallas Gunslingers is faced with a decision that might break or make her career.
Axel is being pressured by the Gunslingers to have a high risk experimental surgery. He asks Kasha for her opinion and she tells him and her colleges she believes therapy is Axel’s best option. Given the task to oversee and maintain Axel’s therapy choice, Kasha’s career and livelihood lay on her and Axel’s success. The chemistry explodes but professionalism is an utmost importance for both Axel and Kasha.
This is a building romance where friendship and emotional connection play a major role in bond that develops. The couple is sweet with heartfelt emotions that leads to a very charming and entertaining read.
I received this ARC copy of Love of the Game from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication April 26, 2016.
May 6, 2016
I really love this series and enjoyed this book. The story is poignant, romantic, and super steamy, and another wonderful installment.
Full review to come...
Full review to come...
May 5, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1SGUOz2
Sweet, heartwarming and funny with a little sappy cheesy goodness on the side. lol I had a good time with Love of the Game. I'm a total tart when it comes to sports romances so a baseball player and his physical therapist was just begging me to read it. Plus the cover which is just to die for sweet and romantic...I was a goner.
The quick of it is that Axel has hurt his shoulder and with rehab not going all that well the team has basically said you have this risky surgery or we're out of options. Buuuut the newbie physical therapist has another idea and they're granted one week to hide away in her country town and see if they can do what it takes to show the team enough improvement to skip the surgery.
I really liked Axel and Kasha. They're easy people to like. Funny, witty, kind. A bit stubborn--okay a LOT stubborn--and cocky on Axel's part. Fiercly determined and dedicated to what they're doing in life but also somewhat removed and watching things from the outside. They've got just enough trauma in their pasts to make your heart really go out to them and show how strong they both are to have overcome what they'd been through. Just damaged enough to need the right person to come in and help them heal, too. Oh and Kasha is a vegetarian (me too!). I liked seeing that. I also loved that Axel was totally cool with that. Didn't tease her or make a big deal out of it and even had veggie meals with her. Might not seem like a big deal but kinda is and totally had me falling just a little more for him :D
They had lovely chemistry and after a bit of a blip in bed were on fire there too. Though it does take a while because of their working relationship. Wilde did something different with their first time and I totally loved it. It was unique to romance books and more realistic and totally worked for me.
There's not a ton of sports time since he's healing and doing rehab for his shoulder so you don't see a lot of him on the job other than doing rehab but you do see Kasha on the job as well as with her family--she had a huge decision to make that really changed her family life--and I really loved that that element was added into the mix.
All in all, Love of the Game was a dreamy, romantic, and make-you-laugh fun. I loved watching these two heal and figure out what was most important in life. They both went through such a journey and it was just lovely to watch it unfold.
April 27, 2016
Amanda's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Love of the Game is the latest story in the Stardust, Texas series and it is truly romantic. Right from the beginning you can feel the attraction and intense chemistry between the two main characters and you wonder how long they are going to fight it and go for it. Axel Richmond is a star pitcher for the Gunslingers and his injured shoulder isn’t recovering as fast as he would like. His new therapist Kasha Carlyle has one week to make some progress with his recuperation or else she’ll be out of a much needed job. She needs the income and benefits in order to gain custody to her half-sister she never knew existed. Emma has Down syndrome and Kasha knows that it will be a challenge to become her legal guardian.
Kasha and Axel are two characters that are dealing with pasts that have greatly affected their lives. It is to the point that Kasha avoids love and passion. That is until Axel. Kasha started to feel things for Axel but she needed it to stay professional because he was her patient. She put up a good fight and it was fun watching her trying hard to put up resistance but in the end it was a fun beginning to their romance. Kasha trying to work Emma into her life was heartbreaking because you could see how things were going and how they weren’t really working out as Kasha hoped they would. Seeing her grow over the course of the story was one of the best things about this story because she had closed off so much of herself off to life and those who loved her.
I would have to say that Axel was the best part of this story for me. He was truly focused on returning to baseball and would try anything to get closer to Kasha and avoid surgery if at all possible. Learning his backstory was heartbreaking but you understood his drive and motivation. He was very intuitive to Kasha and worked his way into her life first as her patient and then as her lover. He took care with her and pushed just enough to not spook her. What made me fall in love with him even more is the fact that he let go of a dream in order to be with Kasha. That is truly romantic in my eyes.
If you’ve read her other books in the series you know there is a bit of magic involved in this series that happens to do with a hope chest. Kasha doesn’t believe in the magic of the hope chest but can’t fully explain how both she and Axel can taste the wine the same. I happen to love this element because it brings the sisters together and the hope that there is someone out there for each of them. I love Lori Wilde’s romance stories because she doesn’t rush things, bring more characters into the main storyline, and lets her characters develop and see how dreams can change over time. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone but it would be my recommendation to read the other stories as well. Lori Wilde has brought baseball and romance together, all in a small town setting, making these delightful romantic reads.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
Love of the Game is the latest story in the Stardust, Texas series and it is truly romantic. Right from the beginning you can feel the attraction and intense chemistry between the two main characters and you wonder how long they are going to fight it and go for it. Axel Richmond is a star pitcher for the Gunslingers and his injured shoulder isn’t recovering as fast as he would like. His new therapist Kasha Carlyle has one week to make some progress with his recuperation or else she’ll be out of a much needed job. She needs the income and benefits in order to gain custody to her half-sister she never knew existed. Emma has Down syndrome and Kasha knows that it will be a challenge to become her legal guardian.
Kasha and Axel are two characters that are dealing with pasts that have greatly affected their lives. It is to the point that Kasha avoids love and passion. That is until Axel. Kasha started to feel things for Axel but she needed it to stay professional because he was her patient. She put up a good fight and it was fun watching her trying hard to put up resistance but in the end it was a fun beginning to their romance. Kasha trying to work Emma into her life was heartbreaking because you could see how things were going and how they weren’t really working out as Kasha hoped they would. Seeing her grow over the course of the story was one of the best things about this story because she had closed off so much of herself off to life and those who loved her.
I would have to say that Axel was the best part of this story for me. He was truly focused on returning to baseball and would try anything to get closer to Kasha and avoid surgery if at all possible. Learning his backstory was heartbreaking but you understood his drive and motivation. He was very intuitive to Kasha and worked his way into her life first as her patient and then as her lover. He took care with her and pushed just enough to not spook her. What made me fall in love with him even more is the fact that he let go of a dream in order to be with Kasha. That is truly romantic in my eyes.
If you’ve read her other books in the series you know there is a bit of magic involved in this series that happens to do with a hope chest. Kasha doesn’t believe in the magic of the hope chest but can’t fully explain how both she and Axel can taste the wine the same. I happen to love this element because it brings the sisters together and the hope that there is someone out there for each of them. I love Lori Wilde’s romance stories because she doesn’t rush things, bring more characters into the main storyline, and lets her characters develop and see how dreams can change over time. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone but it would be my recommendation to read the other stories as well. Lori Wilde has brought baseball and romance together, all in a small town setting, making these delightful romantic reads.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
May 9, 2016
I was not a fan of this book in the same way that I was of the others in the series.
I thought both of the main characters, Kasha and Axel came across as immature and unfocused. I get where the author was going, that their romance was worth both of them giving up potential careers...but I didn't really buy it. I understood Kasha's decision, she was not happy. But, I don;t believe that an athlete, and one willing to work his way back from an injury, would pick retirement over a trade to his dream team, the Yankees. It was a big point that he had not considered his life after baseball...and he did mention that he was now aware that his life was her...but I didn't like that he was not able to have both...in this case, he could have.
I also thought the sub-plot with Dylan and Emma was underdeveloped. And, I thought that in Kasha's case, it made her seem selfish and unlikeable...the number of times she made a decision for her sister without a care as to what would be good for Emma was making me want to tell her to leave her poor sister alone.
The writing was strong, I was just not able to relate to the characters and don't believe real people would make the decisions that they made. Overall, I was disappointed in this one as I had issues with the plot and the character development.
I thought both of the main characters, Kasha and Axel came across as immature and unfocused. I get where the author was going, that their romance was worth both of them giving up potential careers...but I didn't really buy it. I understood Kasha's decision, she was not happy. But, I don;t believe that an athlete, and one willing to work his way back from an injury, would pick retirement over a trade to his dream team, the Yankees. It was a big point that he had not considered his life after baseball...and he did mention that he was now aware that his life was her...but I didn't like that he was not able to have both...in this case, he could have.
I also thought the sub-plot with Dylan and Emma was underdeveloped. And, I thought that in Kasha's case, it made her seem selfish and unlikeable...the number of times she made a decision for her sister without a care as to what would be good for Emma was making me want to tell her to leave her poor sister alone.
The writing was strong, I was just not able to relate to the characters and don't believe real people would make the decisions that they made. Overall, I was disappointed in this one as I had issues with the plot and the character development.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2017
Axel was a major league pitcher with a shoulder injury. Kasha was a physical therapist who thought she could heal him with rest and massage, rather than surgery. This put them in close proximity, away from other people. They had chemistry from the start, but she fought it, on the surface because of her profession in a medical capacity. However, she really had a hard time letting go emotionally because of her past. Axel was all in from the beginning. I had a hard time relating to Kasha and was getting annoyed with her not being able to let go with this hunk of a guy, who was also a sweetheart. Things worked out in the end, but it did take until nearly the end of the book!
May 23, 2021
"People often feel threatened by things that are different. It reflects their ignorance, not your reality."
Physical therapist Kasha Carlyle takes a gamble with the Dallas Gunslingers GM to heal their pitcher, Axel Richmond, before they try a risky operation on him. Staying professional is not the only reason stopping Kasha from surrendering to the mutual instant sexual attraction she feels for her client. She needs the new job opportunity, if she wins, to makes more money for getting custody of the 23 yrs old sister with down syndrome she just learned about a few weeks ago. But as professional she wants it to stay, she can't help feeling it getting more and more personal the more time she spend with Axel. No sexual healing but an emotional one😉.
Both MC have their own demons. Her about her tragic childhood and him about the death of his son two years ago. But that's what I like about Lori Wilde's romance. She can talk about serious and very dramatic subjects but it never become too heavy for sensitive readers like me. And it's in how she makes me believe the MC were really made to be together, whether it's lust at first sight or dislike at first sight for them.
Physical therapist Kasha Carlyle takes a gamble with the Dallas Gunslingers GM to heal their pitcher, Axel Richmond, before they try a risky operation on him. Staying professional is not the only reason stopping Kasha from surrendering to the mutual instant sexual attraction she feels for her client. She needs the new job opportunity, if she wins, to makes more money for getting custody of the 23 yrs old sister with down syndrome she just learned about a few weeks ago. But as professional she wants it to stay, she can't help feeling it getting more and more personal the more time she spend with Axel. No sexual healing but an emotional one😉.
Both MC have their own demons. Her about her tragic childhood and him about the death of his son two years ago. But that's what I like about Lori Wilde's romance. She can talk about serious and very dramatic subjects but it never become too heavy for sensitive readers like me. And it's in how she makes me believe the MC were really made to be together, whether it's lust at first sight or dislike at first sight for them.
April 30, 2016
I love Lori Wilde!!! LOVE, LOVE, LOVER HER BOOKS!!!
May 1, 2016
A wonderful awesome storyline. Goosebumps. Highly recommend this book.
Loved the all characters in the book. .... loved Kasha and Axel :-)
Loved the all characters in the book. .... loved Kasha and Axel :-)
February 25, 2019
Good story about two people whose pasts affect their desire for relationships. Axel was focused on his baseball career, not only because it was his dream but also because it was his connection to his dead son. But a shoulder injury put his career in jeopardy and physical therapist Kasha Carlyle was his best chance to save that career. Kasha desperately needed the salary and benefits of her new job if she was going to have what she needed to get custody of her younger sister. Giving in to the attraction could be the death of that dream.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Axel and Kasha. The chemistry was there from the moment they met. Kasha fought it hard for two reasons. First, Axel was her patient, and she refused to cross that line. Second, Axel stirred up feelings in her that she didn't want. Keeping her emotions under control was very important to her. The things that she experienced as a child watching the interactions of her volatile parents left her with a distrust of passion. Also, her focus has been on gaining custody of Emma. Axel's main focus remained on his healing and return to baseball and his goals. But he couldn't deny how drawn he was to Kasha. I enjoyed their early interactions as Kasha used every trick at her disposal to get Axel to cooperate with her treatment. It was great fun to see him realize that she knew what she was doing. The attraction between them continued to build. I admired how Kasha remained true to her ethics, even as it became harder to do so. I liked how Axel seemed to know just how hard he could push Kasha without scaring her away.
I loved how both Axel and Kasha learned to grow and compromise as their relationship progressed. Their time together deepened their feelings, but neither could see how being together was possible. Axel saw his future with baseball creating a conflict between his traveling with the team and Kasha being rooted in Stardust. Kasha's focus on being what her sister needed left her feeling that there was no room for a relationship. I ached for both while they fought their battles with dreams, goals, and expectations. I loved the realism of their solution, as both of them found a way to make it work.
I also liked Kasha's realistic struggle over custody of her sister. Her shock at discovering Emma's existence and challenges were believable. I admired her determination to be part of Emma's life and her love for Emma was clear. There were some very sweet scenes of the two sisters together. I also felt Kasha's frustration at the party as her dreams ran up against reality. I liked Axel's support and his intervention at one point was brilliantly handled. I ached for Kasha as she struggled with the right thing to do.
Throughout the series, there has also been the presence of a magical hope chest. Kasha claimed that she didn't believe in the magic, but couldn't deny how two of her sisters found love. I enjoyed seeing her fight the truth of the special wine, especially once she discovered that Axel could taste it too. Now the only one left is Suki - where is her story?
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Axel and Kasha. The chemistry was there from the moment they met. Kasha fought it hard for two reasons. First, Axel was her patient, and she refused to cross that line. Second, Axel stirred up feelings in her that she didn't want. Keeping her emotions under control was very important to her. The things that she experienced as a child watching the interactions of her volatile parents left her with a distrust of passion. Also, her focus has been on gaining custody of Emma. Axel's main focus remained on his healing and return to baseball and his goals. But he couldn't deny how drawn he was to Kasha. I enjoyed their early interactions as Kasha used every trick at her disposal to get Axel to cooperate with her treatment. It was great fun to see him realize that she knew what she was doing. The attraction between them continued to build. I admired how Kasha remained true to her ethics, even as it became harder to do so. I liked how Axel seemed to know just how hard he could push Kasha without scaring her away.
I loved how both Axel and Kasha learned to grow and compromise as their relationship progressed. Their time together deepened their feelings, but neither could see how being together was possible. Axel saw his future with baseball creating a conflict between his traveling with the team and Kasha being rooted in Stardust. Kasha's focus on being what her sister needed left her feeling that there was no room for a relationship. I ached for both while they fought their battles with dreams, goals, and expectations. I loved the realism of their solution, as both of them found a way to make it work.
I also liked Kasha's realistic struggle over custody of her sister. Her shock at discovering Emma's existence and challenges were believable. I admired her determination to be part of Emma's life and her love for Emma was clear. There were some very sweet scenes of the two sisters together. I also felt Kasha's frustration at the party as her dreams ran up against reality. I liked Axel's support and his intervention at one point was brilliantly handled. I ached for Kasha as she struggled with the right thing to do.
Throughout the series, there has also been the presence of a magical hope chest. Kasha claimed that she didn't believe in the magic, but couldn't deny how two of her sisters found love. I enjoyed seeing her fight the truth of the special wine, especially once she discovered that Axel could taste it too. Now the only one left is Suki - where is her story?
July 16, 2016
Love of the Game is the latest release in Lori Wilde's captivating Stardust, Texas series. I think this may be my favorite in the series so far and they have all been incredible stories.
I think one of my favorite thing about this series is the sisters connection. These sisters have all been adopted into the very loving, nourishing, and supportive Carlyle family. They may not be related by blood but their bond and and support of each other could not be strong if they were. Each sister has had horrible experiences prior to their adoption. I love that the caring and loving of wonderful parents has been able to help them grow and bond together.
Kasha Carlyle may have had the worst past yet. I won't tell you the details but I will say the fact that she has been able to over come so much and is such a caring person is amazing and a tribute to how a loving home and family can heal. I found an instant connection with Kasha. I felt her pain, understood her fears, admired her loyalty, and cheered for her victories. Kasha is not only is dealing with a new job, an attraction to her newest patient, but also has a new half sister that she knew nothing about that now needs her. She's struggling with getting to know her sister and understand the care that she needs.
Axel Richmond has been through a very traumatic loss and suffered an injury that has set him out of the career that has become his everything. He is handsome, charming, and is a sweetheart under that playboy persona. My heart broke for Axel. I felt his pain and shed a few tears for him. I think I may have felt for Axel and formed a stronger bond because I am dealing with a similar loss that Axel has suffered. All Axel thinks he wants is his arm to heal and get back in the game.
When Kasha and Axel meet there is an instant attraction. However they aren't allowed to act on their attraction due to their working relationship. They sure do push each other's buttons and bring things to a simmering boil. I really enjoyed watching these two get to know each other. Their personalities and previous experiences have made them into just the right person that might be able to mend each of their tattered hearts and perhaps find their happily ever after together.
Love of the Game is a spectacular example of Lori Wilde's writing style. She has once again written a story that captivated me from the first page of the book and kept me entertained and intrigued to the very last page. Kasha and Axle's story is sincerely an emotional page turner. I found myself flipping pages quickly to see what was going to happen or be revealed next. It was wonderful to visit the the Carlyle family and to see what had happened since the last book. I know I will be impatiently awaiting the next story in this series to catch up with everyone and see how things are going in Stardust, what the Carlyle family is up to and how the Gunslingers are doing. I also can not wait to see what the mystery trunk will reveal to the next in line Carlyle sister that finds the next magical key.
Love of the Game is the third book in the Stardust, Texas series. I have had the chance to read them all and each one is wonderful. If you haven't had a chance to read the previous two books, it's OK, don't worry, Love of the Game will stand on it's own just fine. While your picking up your copy of Love of the Game you might want to grab Rules of the Game, and Back in the Game. They are marvelous reads too!
I was given the opportunity to read this spectacular story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Love of the Game.
I think one of my favorite thing about this series is the sisters connection. These sisters have all been adopted into the very loving, nourishing, and supportive Carlyle family. They may not be related by blood but their bond and and support of each other could not be strong if they were. Each sister has had horrible experiences prior to their adoption. I love that the caring and loving of wonderful parents has been able to help them grow and bond together.
Kasha Carlyle may have had the worst past yet. I won't tell you the details but I will say the fact that she has been able to over come so much and is such a caring person is amazing and a tribute to how a loving home and family can heal. I found an instant connection with Kasha. I felt her pain, understood her fears, admired her loyalty, and cheered for her victories. Kasha is not only is dealing with a new job, an attraction to her newest patient, but also has a new half sister that she knew nothing about that now needs her. She's struggling with getting to know her sister and understand the care that she needs.
Axel Richmond has been through a very traumatic loss and suffered an injury that has set him out of the career that has become his everything. He is handsome, charming, and is a sweetheart under that playboy persona. My heart broke for Axel. I felt his pain and shed a few tears for him. I think I may have felt for Axel and formed a stronger bond because I am dealing with a similar loss that Axel has suffered. All Axel thinks he wants is his arm to heal and get back in the game.
When Kasha and Axel meet there is an instant attraction. However they aren't allowed to act on their attraction due to their working relationship. They sure do push each other's buttons and bring things to a simmering boil. I really enjoyed watching these two get to know each other. Their personalities and previous experiences have made them into just the right person that might be able to mend each of their tattered hearts and perhaps find their happily ever after together.
Love of the Game is a spectacular example of Lori Wilde's writing style. She has once again written a story that captivated me from the first page of the book and kept me entertained and intrigued to the very last page. Kasha and Axle's story is sincerely an emotional page turner. I found myself flipping pages quickly to see what was going to happen or be revealed next. It was wonderful to visit the the Carlyle family and to see what had happened since the last book. I know I will be impatiently awaiting the next story in this series to catch up with everyone and see how things are going in Stardust, what the Carlyle family is up to and how the Gunslingers are doing. I also can not wait to see what the mystery trunk will reveal to the next in line Carlyle sister that finds the next magical key.
Love of the Game is the third book in the Stardust, Texas series. I have had the chance to read them all and each one is wonderful. If you haven't had a chance to read the previous two books, it's OK, don't worry, Love of the Game will stand on it's own just fine. While your picking up your copy of Love of the Game you might want to grab Rules of the Game, and Back in the Game. They are marvelous reads too!
I was given the opportunity to read this spectacular story so that I may share my thoughts with you. As always it has been my pleasure to share my thoughts with you on Love of the Game.
March 14, 2016
Kasha Carlyle may just have bitten off more than she can chew, but she is bound and determined not to fail, and lose the job she just worked so hard to get. Taking a job with the Dallas Gunslingers came with it's own set of challenges, the main one being, finding a way to resist the charms of all the handsome ball players, but she is certain she can keep things strictly business... that is until she lays eyes on their relief pitcher Axel Richmond. Axel is on the mend from a shoulder injury, and possibly looking at needing surgery, but he's hesitant about going under the knife. So, after some discussion it is decided that Kasha will put her therapy skills to good use and try and heal the injured pitcher in a week, and if she can't she'll be handed her walking papers. Which seems easy enough... as long as she can resist the heated advances from the charming pitcher!
Dallas Gunslingers relief pitcher Axel Richmond loves what he does, and he's itching to get back on the field, but his injured shoulder isn't healing quite fast enough. He isn't real receptive to surgery, so he decides to take a different approach, one that maybe even more challenging than he originally anticipated... Spending the next week, alone with his thoughts, on a secluded ranch away from the bustling city doesn't sound all that appealing, but he's willing to give it a try, especially since he'll be spending the next week with the Gunslingers gorgeous new therapist...
This charming little read captured my attention right from the start, and had me flying through the pages in search of what I hoped to be a happily ever after brimming with feeling and lots of heart, and I am happy to report I found that and so much more!! I loved reading Axel and Kasha's story, their relationship felt very real, their intentions were sincere, and the passion they shared was palpable. I love reading small town romances and this one definitely hit the mark, it warmed my heart, left me smiling and looking forward to more! I think it's safe to say Ms. Wilde has another bestseller on her hands with this one!!
ARC requested through Edelweiss and kindly provided by Avon Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Dallas Gunslingers relief pitcher Axel Richmond loves what he does, and he's itching to get back on the field, but his injured shoulder isn't healing quite fast enough. He isn't real receptive to surgery, so he decides to take a different approach, one that maybe even more challenging than he originally anticipated... Spending the next week, alone with his thoughts, on a secluded ranch away from the bustling city doesn't sound all that appealing, but he's willing to give it a try, especially since he'll be spending the next week with the Gunslingers gorgeous new therapist...
This charming little read captured my attention right from the start, and had me flying through the pages in search of what I hoped to be a happily ever after brimming with feeling and lots of heart, and I am happy to report I found that and so much more!! I loved reading Axel and Kasha's story, their relationship felt very real, their intentions were sincere, and the passion they shared was palpable. I love reading small town romances and this one definitely hit the mark, it warmed my heart, left me smiling and looking forward to more! I think it's safe to say Ms. Wilde has another bestseller on her hands with this one!!
ARC requested through Edelweiss and kindly provided by Avon Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
April 28, 2016
Love of the Game By Lori Wilde was fantastic. It held on to me and wouldn't let go until the very last page. It was an entertaining read.
In this book we follow Axel and Kasha . I loved these two together seeing them work together was fantastic there are such opposites . Axel being the GO GO GO work hard never stop type of person and Kasha being that calm serene controlled type of person. You may not think this would be a great mach but when you but these together they are perfect for each other . When you hear about the bad life experience that Both Axel and Kasha have been through you really want to hug them , but what I loved is that they found a way to power through it and become stronger people .I loved romantic relationship between Axel and Kasha and was thrilled with were we left them at the end of this book. I loved Kasha Family !! I loved how supportive they were of Kasha every single member of this family helped to add some thing special to this story . I also found the magical trunk and how that played into the story so interesting. Between the Heart Warming Romance , The Beautiful settings , the fantastic cast of characters and The Plot Lori Wilde Has created one fantastic book.
Love of the Game was Romantic , Sexy, Emotional and Heart warming story . I look forward to see what Lori Wilde writes next . If you love all of these things in your books I suggest you pick up this book up a copy of this book .
In this book we follow Axel and Kasha . I loved these two together seeing them work together was fantastic there are such opposites . Axel being the GO GO GO work hard never stop type of person and Kasha being that calm serene controlled type of person. You may not think this would be a great mach but when you but these together they are perfect for each other . When you hear about the bad life experience that Both Axel and Kasha have been through you really want to hug them , but what I loved is that they found a way to power through it and become stronger people .I loved romantic relationship between Axel and Kasha and was thrilled with were we left them at the end of this book. I loved Kasha Family !! I loved how supportive they were of Kasha every single member of this family helped to add some thing special to this story . I also found the magical trunk and how that played into the story so interesting. Between the Heart Warming Romance , The Beautiful settings , the fantastic cast of characters and The Plot Lori Wilde Has created one fantastic book.
Love of the Game was Romantic , Sexy, Emotional and Heart warming story . I look forward to see what Lori Wilde writes next . If you love all of these things in your books I suggest you pick up this book up a copy of this book .
May 11, 2016
Review also posted on My Book Snack.
5 Stars
Absolutely delicious with a pinch of added magic! My favorite of the series!
I’ve been a fan of Lori Wilde’s Stardust, Texas series from the beginning. Kasha was the Carlyle sister that intrigued me the most, so I was looking forward to reading her story from the start. Lori Wilde did not disappoint me! Love of the Game is my favorite in the series thus far!
Axel Richmond is the injured baseball pitcher for the Dallas Gunslingers, and Kasha Carlyle is the Gunslinger’s physical therapist. She steps up to the plate to help Axel with the recommended rest and recovery. Let’s just say that their want to keep things professional made the tension all the more sweet! These two both had walls around their hearts, and I loved how Lori Wilde unfolded both their stories. She made me tear up, smile and feel all warm and fuzzy.
I adored both Axel and Kasha. Kasha is a yogi. I practice yoga myself, and I loved how yoga played a big part in the story and in the healing process. Axel is the classic, dreamy baseball hero we all love to read in our romances. I found their story absolutely delicious with a pinch of added magic. There’s one more Carlyle sister left! Readers of this series know what that means, I “hope”.
If you’re in search for a small town romance with an injured sports hero, give Love of the Game a chance!
5 Stars
Absolutely delicious with a pinch of added magic! My favorite of the series!
I’ve been a fan of Lori Wilde’s Stardust, Texas series from the beginning. Kasha was the Carlyle sister that intrigued me the most, so I was looking forward to reading her story from the start. Lori Wilde did not disappoint me! Love of the Game is my favorite in the series thus far!
Axel Richmond is the injured baseball pitcher for the Dallas Gunslingers, and Kasha Carlyle is the Gunslinger’s physical therapist. She steps up to the plate to help Axel with the recommended rest and recovery. Let’s just say that their want to keep things professional made the tension all the more sweet! These two both had walls around their hearts, and I loved how Lori Wilde unfolded both their stories. She made me tear up, smile and feel all warm and fuzzy.
I adored both Axel and Kasha. Kasha is a yogi. I practice yoga myself, and I loved how yoga played a big part in the story and in the healing process. Axel is the classic, dreamy baseball hero we all love to read in our romances. I found their story absolutely delicious with a pinch of added magic. There’s one more Carlyle sister left! Readers of this series know what that means, I “hope”.
If you’re in search for a small town romance with an injured sports hero, give Love of the Game a chance!
May 14, 2016
A light easy sports read.
Axel is a relief pitcher who is given the option of risky surgery or physical therapy on an injured shoulder. Kasha is assigned as Axel’s physical therapist given the task of getting him field ready again quickly or she could lose her job.
Kasha and Axel has a very fast romance, they fall in love very quick, but the storyline doesn’t simply focus on their fall which is actually what kept my interest more so than the actual love story.
Kasha is trying to gain custody of her half-sister who has down syndrome; that was what I was really intrigued by in this story. I wanted Kasha to take care of Emma.
I didn’t feel a huge connection with the characters, while the storyline was very good and the book was well written, I felt the two main characters were ‘take them or leave them’ for me. I have not read the first two books in this series, which could be the reason behind my not having that strong connection.
I gave it a 3.5 rating mainly based on my lack of emotional pull towards the characters, but I did end up overall enjoying the book. As I said, the writing was very well done and the storyline was intriguing.
Axel is a relief pitcher who is given the option of risky surgery or physical therapy on an injured shoulder. Kasha is assigned as Axel’s physical therapist given the task of getting him field ready again quickly or she could lose her job.
Kasha and Axel has a very fast romance, they fall in love very quick, but the storyline doesn’t simply focus on their fall which is actually what kept my interest more so than the actual love story.
Kasha is trying to gain custody of her half-sister who has down syndrome; that was what I was really intrigued by in this story. I wanted Kasha to take care of Emma.
I didn’t feel a huge connection with the characters, while the storyline was very good and the book was well written, I felt the two main characters were ‘take them or leave them’ for me. I have not read the first two books in this series, which could be the reason behind my not having that strong connection.
I gave it a 3.5 rating mainly based on my lack of emotional pull towards the characters, but I did end up overall enjoying the book. As I said, the writing was very well done and the storyline was intriguing.
May 6, 2016
4.5 Stars
I so love this series and the magic surrounding the hope chest. This is the third book in the series. This is another winner in the series and I fell in love with the characters right away. I will say I did have some tears in my eyes while reading this one. It packs a lot of emotion especially for Kasha and Axel. My heart really goes out to Kasha what she had to go through as a little girl and the pain she endured because of it. It's really something special to see the woman she has become with such a giving heart. Axel had a tragic even in his life as well that would break anyone. I had tears in my eyes when he's talking about it. Right away you can feel the instant spark between Axel and Kasha. Things just escalate from there, but can they act on it when she's Axel's physical therapist? One of the beautiful things for me in this book was how Axel and Kasha help each other find their way through the hurt and pain from the inside. This book also has it's moments of humor. The best ones are when Axel's teasing Kasha. Great book start to finish. One of the things that drew me to this book besides the author is that Axel is a baseball player. That will grab me right away.
I so love this series and the magic surrounding the hope chest. This is the third book in the series. This is another winner in the series and I fell in love with the characters right away. I will say I did have some tears in my eyes while reading this one. It packs a lot of emotion especially for Kasha and Axel. My heart really goes out to Kasha what she had to go through as a little girl and the pain she endured because of it. It's really something special to see the woman she has become with such a giving heart. Axel had a tragic even in his life as well that would break anyone. I had tears in my eyes when he's talking about it. Right away you can feel the instant spark between Axel and Kasha. Things just escalate from there, but can they act on it when she's Axel's physical therapist? One of the beautiful things for me in this book was how Axel and Kasha help each other find their way through the hurt and pain from the inside. This book also has it's moments of humor. The best ones are when Axel's teasing Kasha. Great book start to finish. One of the things that drew me to this book besides the author is that Axel is a baseball player. That will grab me right away.
May 19, 2016
4.5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, suspense, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Back in the Game (Stardust, Texas #1)
Rules of the Game (Stardust, Texas #2)
This is Kasha and Axel’s story. Kasha just started a new job that she needs in order to get custody of her sister. During a meeting Axel calls her out for her thoughts on his recovery and she tells him she could help him but he has to go with her plan. If she can get him better she can keep her job and get the benefits that she needs. Axel needs his shoulder to heal so he can finally make his dream come true. But dreams change. Axel finally starts living and is working on a relationship with Kasha only to have her push him into his dream. Can he go ahead with something he thought he wanted or does his heart send him on a different path?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, suspense, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Back in the Game (Stardust, Texas #1)
Rules of the Game (Stardust, Texas #2)
This is Kasha and Axel’s story. Kasha just started a new job that she needs in order to get custody of her sister. During a meeting Axel calls her out for her thoughts on his recovery and she tells him she could help him but he has to go with her plan. If she can get him better she can keep her job and get the benefits that she needs. Axel needs his shoulder to heal so he can finally make his dream come true. But dreams change. Axel finally starts living and is working on a relationship with Kasha only to have her push him into his dream. Can he go ahead with something he thought he wanted or does his heart send him on a different path?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
April 27, 2016
Kasha desperately needs Axel to fully recover from his injury, and fast, especially since it was her recommendation that he try therapy instead of the risky shoulder surgery that the Gunslingers were pressuring him to try. If therapy doesn't work she can kiss her career goodbye, and her dreams of helping her newly discovered half-sister. Axel needs his career, it's all he has left that he cares about. The pair of them team up and sparks fly. I love the slow building passion masked as friendship. These two tried so hard to keep things professional, but sometimes fate has other plans.
Wow! I loved this book so much it gets 5 STARS from this reader. Love of the Game has all the elements that make a contemporary romance magical, a sports star, a strong heroine, incredible chemistry, family values and a small town. This is Book #3 in Lori Wilde's Stardust, Texas series, but it can absolutely be read as a stand alone novel. It's the kind of book that you finish reading with a smile on your face and butterflies in your tummy.
Wow! I loved this book so much it gets 5 STARS from this reader. Love of the Game has all the elements that make a contemporary romance magical, a sports star, a strong heroine, incredible chemistry, family values and a small town. This is Book #3 in Lori Wilde's Stardust, Texas series, but it can absolutely be read as a stand alone novel. It's the kind of book that you finish reading with a smile on your face and butterflies in your tummy.
February 1, 2016
Loved that the main female character was mixed-race. Loved that baseball was the background NOT the plot. Just really liked the characters.
June 11, 2016
Loved it and I can't wait for her next book!
May 8, 2016
Physical Therapist Kasha Carlyle needs her new job, if she's to ever have a chance of taking care of her sister; a younger half-sister she never knew anything about until recently. But denying the chemistry she has with her newest patient, Axel Richmond, is impossible. Especially when he's charming, sexy and flirts with her any time they're together. However, it's not just fighting her attraction to Axel that's difficult. It's that if she can't improve the progress of his recovery from an injury in a week, she'll lose her job anyway.
Pitcher Axel Richmond needs to get back on the diamond and playing for the Dallas Gunslingers, so he can keep the promise he made to his late son before he died. Choosing to let Kasha help him to recover instead of undergoing surgery is the best decision he could ever make, especially when they get to spend time together on a friend's ranch. But when the time comes, and big decisions have to be made, will Axel follow through on his promise or choose the woman that's come to mean so much to him?
I haven't read a book by Ms. Wilde before, but now that I have, I'll be reading more of this author's work in the future. Because right from the beginning, this book was charming, full of emotion and so entertaining that I couldn't put it down for even a second. I liked the way it started with Axel getting a progress report on his injury, and Kasha offering her opinion, which gets her in trouble. Yet, at the same time, she's determined to prove that she can help Axel.
Both characters were compelling, and the dialogue between them was fun; and full of playful moments, as Axel does his best to melt away at Kasha's need for control. However, the dialogue was also intense due to both the main characters back stories, Kasha's need to take care of her sister because she thinks it will make up for the fact that her mother denied her half-sister a father, and Axel's determination to honor the promise he made to his late son.
Kasha is strong, brave, independent and tenacious. She's determined to help Axel get better while fighting the strong chemistry between them. Chemistry that had me cheering the moment they finally surrendered to their feelings, which eventually spilled over onto the pages in nicely-detailed sex scenes. The heroine has been through so much in her life, and she's lucky to have her adoptive parents and siblings. They're a close-knit, loving family, and support her as much as she lets them. That's why it's so hard for her to tell them what's going on in her life, because she doesn't want to hurt them.
Indeed, it was difficult not to be affected by the emotions and reactions, of both Kasha and Axel. I felt sorry for her. Losing her biological parents in the manner that she did, the horrible way people treated her after the horrible ordeal, it wouldn't have been easy to cope. But she managed with finding an activity that calmed her -- yoga. Then there's Axel and how much he misses his son. He loved the boy very much, and it has made him realize that life it too short to not go after what he wants -- Kasha.
While Axel, he's confident, hard-working, and always pushing himself like he constantly has something to prove to someone. Perhaps it's to do with the promise he made to his son, yet it seemed more than that. Even the way he was with Kasha, desperate for her to give him a chance, he didn't give up until he proved she could trust him. Luckily, Kasha realizes that she needs Axel just as much as he needs her. Besides, how can they doubt the hope chest her sister gave her? It's proven to be a good thing for the couples it's brought together.
Overall, Ms. Wilde has penned a wonderful read that had me wanting to cry for all that the main characters have been through, but -- in the end -- had me rejoicing at how much they've come through the other side of that heartache for the better. Because they're a couple meant to be, no matter what obstacles they had to face to be together. The ending wrapped this story up nicely, and I liked how Axel fought for his and Kasha's relationship. She needed to know how much he wanted her, and how he couldn't let her go so easily. Not even so he could keep the promise he made to his son. I would recommend Love of the Game by Lori Wilde, if you enjoy small town romances, or stories where the hero has to convince the heroine that they're meant to be.
May 13, 2016
The third installment in Lori Wilde's Stardust, TX series, Love of the Game is an endearing romance between an injured baseball player and his physical therapist. With strong professional ethics, plenty of emotional baggage and conflicting priorities, there are numerous obstacles Axel Richmond and Kasha Carlyle must overcome on the road to happily ever after.
Kasha has a lot riding on her new job with the Dallas Gunslingers so she works hard to ensure Axel recovers from a possible career ending shoulder injury. Having recently discovered she has an adult biological half-sister with Down Syndrome, she is doing everything possible to become Emma's legal guardian. Kasha was adopted as young child after a family tragedy and she is shocked by her strong emotional connection to her sister. Equally stunning is her intense and immediate attraction to Axel and even if her professional relationship with him precludes any type a personal relationship, her need for control would never allow her to give in to her passion for him. Having experienced firsthand the devastating effects of out of control passion, Kasha keeps a tight rein on her emotions and desires.
Axel cannot imagine life without baseball so he is extremely focused on overcoming his injury. Although initially skeptical of Kasha's treatment plan, he wants to avoid surgery so he reluctantly follows her instructions. Axel is extremely driven and when finds himself at loose ends, he is forced to revisit the very painful memories of the devastating loss of his young son. He is taken off guard by his growing feelings for Kasha but he is willing to explore the possibility of a future with her but she is incredibly resistant to the idea. Having finally breached her formidable defenses, Axel is very conflicted when his long held dream is within reach.
The romance element of the storyline is leisurely paced since Kasha has valid reasons to keep their interactions strictly on a professional level. Despite her efforts to maintain an emotional distance, she and Axel genuinely like and respect one another and friendship naturally grows between them throughout the course of Axel's treatment. Underlying all of their interactions is a simmering sexual tension that they both try to ignore, but once Kasha decides she has to alter some of her plans regarding Emma, they decide to act on their desire. Not too long after their relationship turns to romance, Axel is faced with a decision that makes Kasha rethink their future together. Will Kasha stop letting the events from her past prevent her from finding happiness?
Love of the Game is an emotional, passion-filled addition to Lori Wilde's delightfully charming Stardust, TX series. Each of the characters is superbly developed with believable issues to overcome. The storyline is engaging with just a touch of whimsy that perfectly balances the novel's more serious undertones. It is a heartfelt and beautifully rendered love story that will appeal to old and fans of this wonderful series.
Kasha has a lot riding on her new job with the Dallas Gunslingers so she works hard to ensure Axel recovers from a possible career ending shoulder injury. Having recently discovered she has an adult biological half-sister with Down Syndrome, she is doing everything possible to become Emma's legal guardian. Kasha was adopted as young child after a family tragedy and she is shocked by her strong emotional connection to her sister. Equally stunning is her intense and immediate attraction to Axel and even if her professional relationship with him precludes any type a personal relationship, her need for control would never allow her to give in to her passion for him. Having experienced firsthand the devastating effects of out of control passion, Kasha keeps a tight rein on her emotions and desires.
Axel cannot imagine life without baseball so he is extremely focused on overcoming his injury. Although initially skeptical of Kasha's treatment plan, he wants to avoid surgery so he reluctantly follows her instructions. Axel is extremely driven and when finds himself at loose ends, he is forced to revisit the very painful memories of the devastating loss of his young son. He is taken off guard by his growing feelings for Kasha but he is willing to explore the possibility of a future with her but she is incredibly resistant to the idea. Having finally breached her formidable defenses, Axel is very conflicted when his long held dream is within reach.
The romance element of the storyline is leisurely paced since Kasha has valid reasons to keep their interactions strictly on a professional level. Despite her efforts to maintain an emotional distance, she and Axel genuinely like and respect one another and friendship naturally grows between them throughout the course of Axel's treatment. Underlying all of their interactions is a simmering sexual tension that they both try to ignore, but once Kasha decides she has to alter some of her plans regarding Emma, they decide to act on their desire. Not too long after their relationship turns to romance, Axel is faced with a decision that makes Kasha rethink their future together. Will Kasha stop letting the events from her past prevent her from finding happiness?
Love of the Game is an emotional, passion-filled addition to Lori Wilde's delightfully charming Stardust, TX series. Each of the characters is superbly developed with believable issues to overcome. The storyline is engaging with just a touch of whimsy that perfectly balances the novel's more serious undertones. It is a heartfelt and beautifully rendered love story that will appeal to old and fans of this wonderful series.
May 11, 2016
Posted on What I'm Reading
Trying to find the right words for Love of the Game is not the easiest thing to do. I mean I enjoyed the story, and there are quite few elements to the story that make it complex. One them is the Kasha Carlyle. When we first meet her, she gives off this untouchable vibe. Getting to know her is a bit of a challenge, because she doesn’t want to feel passion. It’s fine to a point. I liked when Axel pointed out
“Life hurts, Kasha. We can’t stop the pain or insulate ourselves from it. … That’s what you’re so afraid to take a chance on us. You’re scared of losing it all.”
“But if we let pain keep us from taking chances, then we’re barely alive, and what’s the point?”
Axel had a valid point, and it takes a long time for Kasha’s wall to come down. I love how patient Axel is with Kasha. Yes, at first he was totally lusting after her, but something changed inside and found something special in Kasha.
Kasha’s fear of being out of control stems from her childhood, which was volatile to say the least, and she had a deep-seated fear of becoming like her mother. So, it was better to be stone and unmovable. Yet she couldn’t be that way, because she had a half-sister that she wanted to bring into her life. It was interesting to watch this dynamic, because her sister did have Down syndrome. Kasha thought she needed to save and protect her. I did admire her desire to take her sister in, but I didn’t believe had truly thought the implication fully. Of course, I wanted to shout at Kasha “Dude! Get to know her first before me make some rash decisions.” I like how Lori made the situation between Kasha and her sister workout.
Overall, I did like Love of the Game. I did like the relationship dynamics between Axel and Kasha. They could read one another so well, and I think that scared Kasha a little. I did get a little worry with Kasha and her somewhat unrealistic expectations when it came to her sisters. Fortunately, she had a strong family support system. The flow of the story was fantastic and I found myself getting to the story. Love Axel, because he was too cute at times with trying to break Kasha’s stone. There were times I just wanted to shake Kasha, but it might be her I don’t need anyone attitude, and everybody needs someone. One of my favorite quotes has to be
“You think if you stay above the fray of life, keep your emotions contained you won’t feel any pain. I got new for you Sphinx. You might not feel any pain, but you won’t feel any joy or ecstasy either.”
A hard concept for Kasha, I think that can apply to everyone. Yes, an enjoyable read.
Trying to find the right words for Love of the Game is not the easiest thing to do. I mean I enjoyed the story, and there are quite few elements to the story that make it complex. One them is the Kasha Carlyle. When we first meet her, she gives off this untouchable vibe. Getting to know her is a bit of a challenge, because she doesn’t want to feel passion. It’s fine to a point. I liked when Axel pointed out
“Life hurts, Kasha. We can’t stop the pain or insulate ourselves from it. … That’s what you’re so afraid to take a chance on us. You’re scared of losing it all.”
“But if we let pain keep us from taking chances, then we’re barely alive, and what’s the point?”
Axel had a valid point, and it takes a long time for Kasha’s wall to come down. I love how patient Axel is with Kasha. Yes, at first he was totally lusting after her, but something changed inside and found something special in Kasha.
Kasha’s fear of being out of control stems from her childhood, which was volatile to say the least, and she had a deep-seated fear of becoming like her mother. So, it was better to be stone and unmovable. Yet she couldn’t be that way, because she had a half-sister that she wanted to bring into her life. It was interesting to watch this dynamic, because her sister did have Down syndrome. Kasha thought she needed to save and protect her. I did admire her desire to take her sister in, but I didn’t believe had truly thought the implication fully. Of course, I wanted to shout at Kasha “Dude! Get to know her first before me make some rash decisions.” I like how Lori made the situation between Kasha and her sister workout.
Overall, I did like Love of the Game. I did like the relationship dynamics between Axel and Kasha. They could read one another so well, and I think that scared Kasha a little. I did get a little worry with Kasha and her somewhat unrealistic expectations when it came to her sisters. Fortunately, she had a strong family support system. The flow of the story was fantastic and I found myself getting to the story. Love Axel, because he was too cute at times with trying to break Kasha’s stone. There were times I just wanted to shake Kasha, but it might be her I don’t need anyone attitude, and everybody needs someone. One of my favorite quotes has to be
“You think if you stay above the fray of life, keep your emotions contained you won’t feel any pain. I got new for you Sphinx. You might not feel any pain, but you won’t feel any joy or ecstasy either.”
A hard concept for Kasha, I think that can apply to everyone. Yes, an enjoyable read.
April 28, 2016
I’ve obviously missed a trick with this author, I haven’t read any of her books before and so I had nothing to compare this too and in a way I think that was a good thing. Because it is not always easy to give a story a fair crack when you have a reading relationship with previous works by the author.
So here we go.
This is part of a series but I think it is fairly easy to read as a standalone book, it has reference and reaction that obviously pay reference to the previous works but having not read the others, I don’t think my enjoyment suffered at all.
Kasha is a trained physical therapist and her later assignment is to help rehabilitate Axel, a baseball player who has recently undergone a surgical procedure for a shoulder injury.
His career hangs in the balance and in a way so does Kasha’s. Now life in pro sport is far from easy and when a potentially career ending event comes into the picture it isn’t only the physical aspect or recuperation that needs to considered and for Axel I got the feeling that he could address the physical, yes it frustrated him not being able to do what he could before but it was the stuff inside that “guys” like him were reluctant to discuss that was always going to cause him more trouble.
He might have been one sexy SOB but he hid his heartache well. More than anything I hoped that Kasha would give him reason to see that being honest with himself and letting go of the demons that plagued him might actually help him physically as much as it would mentally. But could she live by the same rule. Her life was a carefully guarded secret, she shielded her heart totally the absolute poster girl for the do what I say and not what I do hypothesis.
I found her reluctance to embrace her own advice frustrating at times, and that made her character a little on the touchy side for me, I wanted to like her more than I did initially. But with her relationship with her sister Emma, I saw a glimmer of hope that he could be what I was hoping for.
The relationship between Axel and Kasha set the page a light when it took off, they may have tried to fight it off but there wasn’t a hope that they were either big enough or strong enough to defeat a love that between them knew no bounds. There was chemistry there that was never going to just lay down and die, it was in for the long haul and they were along for the ride.
Well written it has elements that were very engaging but I read with a shake of my head more often that I would have liked. But would I recommend it…yes, without a doubt.
So here we go.
This is part of a series but I think it is fairly easy to read as a standalone book, it has reference and reaction that obviously pay reference to the previous works but having not read the others, I don’t think my enjoyment suffered at all.
Kasha is a trained physical therapist and her later assignment is to help rehabilitate Axel, a baseball player who has recently undergone a surgical procedure for a shoulder injury.
His career hangs in the balance and in a way so does Kasha’s. Now life in pro sport is far from easy and when a potentially career ending event comes into the picture it isn’t only the physical aspect or recuperation that needs to considered and for Axel I got the feeling that he could address the physical, yes it frustrated him not being able to do what he could before but it was the stuff inside that “guys” like him were reluctant to discuss that was always going to cause him more trouble.
He might have been one sexy SOB but he hid his heartache well. More than anything I hoped that Kasha would give him reason to see that being honest with himself and letting go of the demons that plagued him might actually help him physically as much as it would mentally. But could she live by the same rule. Her life was a carefully guarded secret, she shielded her heart totally the absolute poster girl for the do what I say and not what I do hypothesis.
I found her reluctance to embrace her own advice frustrating at times, and that made her character a little on the touchy side for me, I wanted to like her more than I did initially. But with her relationship with her sister Emma, I saw a glimmer of hope that he could be what I was hoping for.
The relationship between Axel and Kasha set the page a light when it took off, they may have tried to fight it off but there wasn’t a hope that they were either big enough or strong enough to defeat a love that between them knew no bounds. There was chemistry there that was never going to just lay down and die, it was in for the long haul and they were along for the ride.
Well written it has elements that were very engaging but I read with a shake of my head more often that I would have liked. But would I recommend it…yes, without a doubt.
May 9, 2016
4.5 / 5 stars
First off, how gorgeous is that cover? Hands down, my favorite in the series.
Second, if you haven't read the series, you'll be ok; this can certainly be read as a standalone. But if you have, you know all about the hope chest and the supposed folklore behind it.
Slowly, Kasha's sisters are finding love and they're attributing it to the hope chest -- Breeanne and the scratchy scarf, Jodi and the perfume. While Kasha wants to believe in the chest for them, she just... doesn't. Kasha is a realist who thinks that love is great and all, but it was love and passion that tore her family apart, so no thank you, she doesn't want anything to do with it. Besides, she has Emma to think about... She has a deep need to make amends for her family's mistakes, and is more than willing to take the entire brunt of it all. While independence is a strength in characters, Kasha's borders on detrimental.
Kasha proves herself to be incredibly independent and strong right from the beginning. When Axel comes into the office she's interning at for PT purposes, his team is strong on pushing surgery for this ball player. Kasha, though, sees something the others don't and when she opens her mouth, she's afraid she'll lose her job. However, Axel, for whatever reason, wants to take her advice -- but no worries, he shows what a standup guy he can be by putting forth some stipulations for Kasha and her internship.
Axel has his own past demons and reasons for guarding his heart, but the more he's around Kasha, the more he grows to enjoy her company. These two were fun and sweet, but it's Axel's passion that has Kasha skittering away. Will she learn the differences in passion? Will she allow Axel to let down her guard? Will Axel allow her in to his heart and show her his own dark spots?
A great addition to this series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
First off, how gorgeous is that cover? Hands down, my favorite in the series.
Second, if you haven't read the series, you'll be ok; this can certainly be read as a standalone. But if you have, you know all about the hope chest and the supposed folklore behind it.
Slowly, Kasha's sisters are finding love and they're attributing it to the hope chest -- Breeanne and the scratchy scarf, Jodi and the perfume. While Kasha wants to believe in the chest for them, she just... doesn't. Kasha is a realist who thinks that love is great and all, but it was love and passion that tore her family apart, so no thank you, she doesn't want anything to do with it. Besides, she has Emma to think about... She has a deep need to make amends for her family's mistakes, and is more than willing to take the entire brunt of it all. While independence is a strength in characters, Kasha's borders on detrimental.
Kasha proves herself to be incredibly independent and strong right from the beginning. When Axel comes into the office she's interning at for PT purposes, his team is strong on pushing surgery for this ball player. Kasha, though, sees something the others don't and when she opens her mouth, she's afraid she'll lose her job. However, Axel, for whatever reason, wants to take her advice -- but no worries, he shows what a standup guy he can be by putting forth some stipulations for Kasha and her internship.
Axel has his own past demons and reasons for guarding his heart, but the more he's around Kasha, the more he grows to enjoy her company. These two were fun and sweet, but it's Axel's passion that has Kasha skittering away. Will she learn the differences in passion? Will she allow Axel to let down her guard? Will Axel allow her in to his heart and show her his own dark spots?
A great addition to this series.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
April 25, 2016
"Love of the Game" by Lori Wilde is the third installment of her series, Stardust, Texas, which is telling the tales of four sisters. In this one, we have Kasha's story. Kasha is a physical therapist and yoga enthusiast that has just signed on to help Axel, a baseball player recovering from a shoulder injury. Axel, of course, is sexy, strong and handsome. But even those uber-sexy guys can have a world of heart behind their hearts and Axel is no exception. Kasha, having had a bit of trauma in her young life, is closed off and refuses to give in to passion. I really adored Axel - despite his heartache, he is trying hard to make his dreams come true, hoping to ease his hurting heart. I felt for him and was proud of his determination, even if he sometimes would go against Kasha's advice. I did have a harder time liking Kasha. Yes, I get she had a rough childhood but her stubborness was a bit much for me. I hurt for her because she was so closed off to love and happiness. Her journey with Emma, her sister, was heartwarming. I liked the journey Ms. Wilde took those two on and the outcome as well. Together, Axel and Kasha are fire - explosive even. When they both gave in, it was a beautiful thing to watch. It was a bit painful, though, when the walls were up and the chemistry and love were being fought. Ms. Wilde brings in a touch of whimsy to this series as well, in the form of the Hope chest and it's contents. That was fun in all the books and who wouldn't like something that shows true love? This is book three of the series. I adored the first two books but this one fell a little short for me - still enjoyable, just a bit harder for me to get into than Breeanne and Jodi's stories. I am looking forward to Suki's tale- I wonder what will be in her hope chest drawer? (Received copy from Edelweiss for honest review)
May 10, 2016
This was my first book in series that I read from the Stardust, Texas Series and you don't need to read the other books in order to know that's going on in the storyline. But after reading this book, I will definitely be going back to read the other two books in the series.
Kasha Carlyle really needed this new job at the Dallas Gunslingers Baseball Team. With the revelation that she has a half-sister who has down-syndrome, Kasha who is adopted, wants to do everything she can to care and provide for her only living blood relative.
Axel Richmond is determined to achieve his dream of playing for the New York Yankees. But being on the DL is not helping his cause so when the beautiful new PT suggests that she can help him get off the DL without surgery and more downtime, he goes for it, even if he thinks her methods are a little on the weird side.
As Kasha and Axel spend more time together the sexual tension between the two is through the roof, but Kasha can't risk losing this job. She tries so hard to stay professional, to stay the course, but Axel is weaving himself into her heart a little more each time they are together.
I loved the push and pull between these two broken soul. Both have a suitcase full of demons they are fighting, but they can't deny there is something between the two of them that neither has ever felt before.
As Kasha struggles with helping her sister out and learning to become a guardian to a 23 year old stuck in an 8 year old mind. Axel struggles with following his dreams or his heart.
Well developed characters that I latched onto right away. The story moved at a steady beat and I couldn't put it down, wanting to know what came next. I enjoyed the story so much and can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
Kasha Carlyle really needed this new job at the Dallas Gunslingers Baseball Team. With the revelation that she has a half-sister who has down-syndrome, Kasha who is adopted, wants to do everything she can to care and provide for her only living blood relative.
Axel Richmond is determined to achieve his dream of playing for the New York Yankees. But being on the DL is not helping his cause so when the beautiful new PT suggests that she can help him get off the DL without surgery and more downtime, he goes for it, even if he thinks her methods are a little on the weird side.
As Kasha and Axel spend more time together the sexual tension between the two is through the roof, but Kasha can't risk losing this job. She tries so hard to stay professional, to stay the course, but Axel is weaving himself into her heart a little more each time they are together.
I loved the push and pull between these two broken soul. Both have a suitcase full of demons they are fighting, but they can't deny there is something between the two of them that neither has ever felt before.
As Kasha struggles with helping her sister out and learning to become a guardian to a 23 year old stuck in an 8 year old mind. Axel struggles with following his dreams or his heart.
Well developed characters that I latched onto right away. The story moved at a steady beat and I couldn't put it down, wanting to know what came next. I enjoyed the story so much and can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series.
May 17, 2016
Sweet and magical story about love, life, family, and living to the fullest.
Kasha and Axel communicate more with one long look, than most people during an hour long conversation. The connection is palpable between them, the passion ardent, and every moment they spent together, draws them closer to each other.
Even the magical hope chest seems to agree with their destiny.
But Kasha has wounds from her childhood, deep issues with emotions. She does all she can, to keep them under control, to hold on to that restraint, and not let her feelings free. That causes her to come off as distant, controlling, and remote, making it hard to connect with her, and relate to her.
Axel has the patience to take the time, and make the effort, to get to know her. In the process, they learn to trust each other, and share their painful secrets with each other, as they grow, and heal from the deep wounds of their past.
The story has subplots with Emma, Kasha's sister, and Dylan, Axel's son. I felt that both of these issues got a rushed solution, as the story, the journey Axel and Kasha were on, moved on. I was conflicted as I finished the book, surprised by some of the solutions, taken back by some of the decisions, the turns the plot took. But such is life, even in tales, it doesn't always go the road you would have chosen.
Kasha and Axel both carry bags from their past, that they haven't fully processed, and let go. As they work on Axel's physical healing, they embark a journey, where they visit the past, trek through the difficult emotions and events, hike over the mountains of hindrance to move on, and Kasha conquer the fears of deep feelings, emotions felt freely, and let passion to guide her life
~ Three Spoons and a teaspoon on the side
Kasha and Axel communicate more with one long look, than most people during an hour long conversation. The connection is palpable between them, the passion ardent, and every moment they spent together, draws them closer to each other.
Even the magical hope chest seems to agree with their destiny.
But Kasha has wounds from her childhood, deep issues with emotions. She does all she can, to keep them under control, to hold on to that restraint, and not let her feelings free. That causes her to come off as distant, controlling, and remote, making it hard to connect with her, and relate to her.
Axel has the patience to take the time, and make the effort, to get to know her. In the process, they learn to trust each other, and share their painful secrets with each other, as they grow, and heal from the deep wounds of their past.
The story has subplots with Emma, Kasha's sister, and Dylan, Axel's son. I felt that both of these issues got a rushed solution, as the story, the journey Axel and Kasha were on, moved on. I was conflicted as I finished the book, surprised by some of the solutions, taken back by some of the decisions, the turns the plot took. But such is life, even in tales, it doesn't always go the road you would have chosen.
Kasha and Axel both carry bags from their past, that they haven't fully processed, and let go. As they work on Axel's physical healing, they embark a journey, where they visit the past, trek through the difficult emotions and events, hike over the mountains of hindrance to move on, and Kasha conquer the fears of deep feelings, emotions felt freely, and let passion to guide her life
~ Three Spoons and a teaspoon on the side
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