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Calling It #1
Calling It
Baseball player Nathan Hawkins needs to get away from Chicago. After a near career-ending car accident and with paparazzi surrounding his penthouse, Nate can only think of one place to home. But when he finds his old apartment occupied by a half-naked woman wielding a baseball bat, he's not sure what to think…except that maybe his luck has finally changed for the better.Librarian Dorie Donelli never thought she'd get to meet her fantasy man in person—much less in her bathrobe. To her surprise, her nearly naked run-in with Nate leads to more unclothed encounters. But Dorie is sure their fling is only temporary. As long as she remembers he'll be gone once his life gets back on track, she won't get hurt. In the meantime, she throws herself into enjoying their three weeks together before he has to report for spring training and go back to his old life.For Nate, being with Dorie is the only time in months that he finds himself smiling. Laughing. And he has no intention of letting that go. He might even be falling in love…if only Dorie will let him say the words. What they have isn't just a dream, but the start of a dream come true.This book is approximately 101,000 words
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 11, 2016
39 people are currently reading
931 people want to read
About the author
Jen Doyle
11 books434 followersA big believer in happily ever afters, Jen Doyle decided it was high time she started creating some. Jen is a member of the Romance Writers of America, as well as a member of the New England Chapter, New Jersey Romance Writers and Music City Romance Writer chapters of RWA. She is represented by Sarah E. Younger of the Nancy Yost Literary Agency.
She has an M.S. in Library and Information Science and, in addition to her work as a librarian, has worked as a conference and events planner as well as a Communications and Enrollment administrator in both preschool and higher education environments (although some might say that there is very little difference between the two; Jen has no comment regarding whether she is one of the "some").
Her first book, CALLING IT, was published by Carina Press in April 2016. It was the winner of The Beacon, the Finish the Damn Book, and the Melody of Love 2014 contests in the Contemporary Romance category, and was also the Contemporary Romance winner as well as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2014 Gateway to the Best contest. Book #2, CALLED UP, will be published on August 29, 2016.
She has an M.S. in Library and Information Science and, in addition to her work as a librarian, has worked as a conference and events planner as well as a Communications and Enrollment administrator in both preschool and higher education environments (although some might say that there is very little difference between the two; Jen has no comment regarding whether she is one of the "some").
Her first book, CALLING IT, was published by Carina Press in April 2016. It was the winner of The Beacon, the Finish the Damn Book, and the Melody of Love 2014 contests in the Contemporary Romance category, and was also the Contemporary Romance winner as well as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2014 Gateway to the Best contest. Book #2, CALLED UP, will be published on August 29, 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
August 8, 2016
4.5 stars - I absolutely loved this!
Contemporary Sports Romance is my latest binge you guys and I have absolutely found a winner!
I stumbled upon this title and immediately had the highest of high hopes… and it was everything I had dreamed it would be.
Let me just say first of all, I love the small-town setting when I’m reading Contemporary Romance (please see Jill Shalvis). The “everyone knows everyone” vibe just really works for me, and that’s really how this one starts out. Dorie has moved from Boston to Iowa to work in a small town, rebuilding the library that has honestly seen way better days. She’s left behind a boisterous family that includes 6 overbearing brothers who have raised her on sports. So when she steps out of her bathroom half-naked with a bat, yelling at the guy eating her dinner, she certainly doesn’t expect it to be THE Nate Hawkins.
Nate has had a string of bad luck and before Spring Training starts he decides to get out of the bright lights of Chicago and head back home to his family and friends. With nowhere to stay except his sister’s apartment, he never expects to find a half-naked girl who has no idea who he is… and he certainly doesn’t expect the instant attraction between them.
With their interactions coming more frequent, Dorie has to find a way to tell Nate she knows exactly who he is, and Nate has to find a way to break it to this girl he’s connecting with on every level, just what she’d be in for if she wants to pursue anything with him. Can I tell you that the reveals really are mostly drama free and Doyle does it in a way that’s pretty cute (bar trivia!) and really allows us as the reader to get to know them both a bit more.
Doyle has created some pretty fun characters in Calling It and I absolutely loved Dorie! Despite her insistence that the relationship forming between her and Nate is only temporary and it has a deadline, she’s fun and funny and while there were times where she wasn’t sure why Nate would want to be with her, it wasn’t because she didn’t think she was amazing, it’s just that she was comparing herself to this other life he lived, and felt as though she just wouldn’t fit because she was so different than his ex and anyone else he was ever associated with. But maybe that was the point even though she couldn’t recognize it. These two had so much chemistry and the relationship was seriously hot and Nate!
I don’t even know what to say about Nate other than to tell you that he has definitely made my book boyfriend list. He agrees to Dorie’s deadline, but only knowing that he’s going to do anything and everything he can to get her to realize he’s in this relationship and it’s not just a fling for him. I loved how invested and interested in her he was. Yes, it all happens pretty quickly, but I didn’t even care one bit. I just loved how much Dorie fits into his life and his world and I love that he recognized it as well!
The secondary characters here, while not a huge part of the story, still impact these two and we get the chance to start to get to know them too! I’m excited to see that this is a companion series and even more excited to know that I have more to look forward to from Jen Doyle.
Fans of Jill Shalvis and Kristen Higgins are definitely going to enjoy this series! I’ve already got book 2 queued up on my kindle because I begged for an early copy, but no worries because that’s out soon too!
If you love contemporary sports romance, don’t miss out on this series or this author!
Contemporary Sports Romance is my latest binge you guys and I have absolutely found a winner!
I stumbled upon this title and immediately had the highest of high hopes… and it was everything I had dreamed it would be.
Let me just say first of all, I love the small-town setting when I’m reading Contemporary Romance (please see Jill Shalvis). The “everyone knows everyone” vibe just really works for me, and that’s really how this one starts out. Dorie has moved from Boston to Iowa to work in a small town, rebuilding the library that has honestly seen way better days. She’s left behind a boisterous family that includes 6 overbearing brothers who have raised her on sports. So when she steps out of her bathroom half-naked with a bat, yelling at the guy eating her dinner, she certainly doesn’t expect it to be THE Nate Hawkins.
Nate has had a string of bad luck and before Spring Training starts he decides to get out of the bright lights of Chicago and head back home to his family and friends. With nowhere to stay except his sister’s apartment, he never expects to find a half-naked girl who has no idea who he is… and he certainly doesn’t expect the instant attraction between them.
With their interactions coming more frequent, Dorie has to find a way to tell Nate she knows exactly who he is, and Nate has to find a way to break it to this girl he’s connecting with on every level, just what she’d be in for if she wants to pursue anything with him. Can I tell you that the reveals really are mostly drama free and Doyle does it in a way that’s pretty cute (bar trivia!) and really allows us as the reader to get to know them both a bit more.
Doyle has created some pretty fun characters in Calling It and I absolutely loved Dorie! Despite her insistence that the relationship forming between her and Nate is only temporary and it has a deadline, she’s fun and funny and while there were times where she wasn’t sure why Nate would want to be with her, it wasn’t because she didn’t think she was amazing, it’s just that she was comparing herself to this other life he lived, and felt as though she just wouldn’t fit because she was so different than his ex and anyone else he was ever associated with. But maybe that was the point even though she couldn’t recognize it. These two had so much chemistry and the relationship was seriously hot and Nate!
I don’t even know what to say about Nate other than to tell you that he has definitely made my book boyfriend list. He agrees to Dorie’s deadline, but only knowing that he’s going to do anything and everything he can to get her to realize he’s in this relationship and it’s not just a fling for him. I loved how invested and interested in her he was. Yes, it all happens pretty quickly, but I didn’t even care one bit. I just loved how much Dorie fits into his life and his world and I love that he recognized it as well!
The secondary characters here, while not a huge part of the story, still impact these two and we get the chance to start to get to know them too! I’m excited to see that this is a companion series and even more excited to know that I have more to look forward to from Jen Doyle.
Fans of Jill Shalvis and Kristen Higgins are definitely going to enjoy this series! I’ve already got book 2 queued up on my kindle because I begged for an early copy, but no worries because that’s out soon too!
If you love contemporary sports romance, don’t miss out on this series or this author!
December 9, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Great start to the series. Loved the heroine, Dorie...fun character and I liked Nate too. Would love for Dorie's brothers get books, they could have their own series. Also enjoyed the small town setting and the story behind the Iowa Dream Team.
Great start to the series. Loved the heroine, Dorie...fun character and I liked Nate too. Would love for Dorie's brothers get books, they could have their own series. Also enjoyed the small town setting and the story behind the Iowa Dream Team.
March 6, 2016
I loved the premise of this book, so I was really excited to read it.
Dorie and Nate are adorable together. Their banter is fun and their chemistry is off the charts. I loved seeing the story from both of their POVs. Every scene with her family and his sisters was hilarious and the trivia scene might have been my favorite.
Sure, Dorie constantly trying to push Nate away got old, but the overall story is cute and the grand gesture is one of the best. I hope there are more books in this series, because I'd love to see more of these characters.
**Huge thanks to Carina Press and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
Dorie and Nate are adorable together. Their banter is fun and their chemistry is off the charts. I loved seeing the story from both of their POVs. Every scene with her family and his sisters was hilarious and the trivia scene might have been my favorite.
Sure, Dorie constantly trying to push Nate away got old, but the overall story is cute and the grand gesture is one of the best. I hope there are more books in this series, because I'd love to see more of these characters.
**Huge thanks to Carina Press and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
March 26, 2017
I spent a huge chunk of the book wanting to punch the heroine's lights out but I enjoyed the hero a great deal. Full review to come.
March 24, 2016
New-to-me authors are really hitting the spot at the moment and Calling It is a great debut from Jen Doyle. I love a good sports romance with a couple who create banter and sexy-times, and Nate and Dorie bring plenty.
Recovering from a car accident and having recently been dumped by his fiancée, pro-baseball player Nate returns home to Iowa to spend some time with his family, turning up unannounced at his sister’s place, greeted by a woman wielding a baseball bat and wearing nothing but a bathrobe.
"Come any closer and I swear to God I’ll take your head off faster than you can say casserole."
Dorie has been “in love” with Nate since she was a teenager. And when it soon becomes clear there's a serious attraction between them, she puts a time-limit on things because why would a rich, successful athlete be settle for a bespectacled-librarian with 6 protective older brothers.
Nate and Dorie brought that feeling of real with them; the speed and depth of their feelings cause both confusion and fear, but I adored Nate’s honesty, Dorie’s independent streak and their chemistry lights up the pages from the start, creating witty banter and heated passion. Granted, Dorie’s refusal to accept that it could ever be more than a fling did feel a little overplayed heading towards the end and started to frustrate, but that doesn’t take away the fact that she and Nate were great together.
"You can’t change your entire life for someone you’ve only known for three weeks.
With Dorie’s loud and loveable family bringing humour that had me laughing loudly, I devoured this pretty much over one evening. Up next is Called Up which is due for release in August and after this promising start, I’m very much looking forward to seeing where Jen Doyle takes the series.
Copy received courtesy of Carina Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Recovering from a car accident and having recently been dumped by his fiancée, pro-baseball player Nate returns home to Iowa to spend some time with his family, turning up unannounced at his sister’s place, greeted by a woman wielding a baseball bat and wearing nothing but a bathrobe.
"Come any closer and I swear to God I’ll take your head off faster than you can say casserole."
Dorie has been “in love” with Nate since she was a teenager. And when it soon becomes clear there's a serious attraction between them, she puts a time-limit on things because why would a rich, successful athlete be settle for a bespectacled-librarian with 6 protective older brothers.
Nate and Dorie brought that feeling of real with them; the speed and depth of their feelings cause both confusion and fear, but I adored Nate’s honesty, Dorie’s independent streak and their chemistry lights up the pages from the start, creating witty banter and heated passion. Granted, Dorie’s refusal to accept that it could ever be more than a fling did feel a little overplayed heading towards the end and started to frustrate, but that doesn’t take away the fact that she and Nate were great together.
"You can’t change your entire life for someone you’ve only known for three weeks.
With Dorie’s loud and loveable family bringing humour that had me laughing loudly, I devoured this pretty much over one evening. Up next is Called Up which is due for release in August and after this promising start, I’m very much looking forward to seeing where Jen Doyle takes the series.
Copy received courtesy of Carina Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
April 13, 2016
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
Calling It is Jen Doyle's debut novel. I always try to go in with an open mind to a debut novel, because sometimes you find some serious gems and other times it is obvious that it is an author's first book. The blurb really drew me in here though, and I absolutely love sports romance stories, so I had to give this one a shot. Unfortunately for me, this is one of those cases where it didn't work for me at all.
After almost losing his career in a car accident, professional catcher Nathan Hawkins heads home to avoid the paparazzi. Not only are the media speculating about his career and the accident, but he also just lost his fiance to his supposed best friend. But when he goes to his sister's apartment, the nearly naked woman he finds wielding a baseball bat is definitely not his sister. Nate agrees to help the town librarian with the renovations to the library and is shocked to realize that it is the woman he ran into. As the two begin to get to know one another, things quickly become more and both Dorie and Nate find themselves enjoying what is happening between them, but will either of them be ready to let go once Nate has to head back for spring training?
One of my biggest issues here was Dorie. I couldn't stand her right from the start, and honestly most of the secondary characters weren't any better. Dorie was impossible for me to connect to and I found myself wanting to reach through my Kindle more than once to strangle her. She did nothing but irritate me, and it just never got better. I especially got tired of the constant push and pull that Dorie was doing when it came to Nate. The secondary characters here annoyed me as well, often times jumping to conclusions and sticking their noses in where it didn't belong. It started right away in this book and was just impossible to come back from. The only character I found myself really liking was Nate.
I also had a really tough time with the author's writing style, and I think a lot of that could just be a personal thing. There were times that things almost seemed to be missing and the writing came off as a bit choppy. I would have to read several sentences and paragraphs multiple times to try and figure out how we got from point A to point B. It just didn't flow well, and this one was pretty slow and awkward. There wasn't really anything new or different here to grab my attention, so my interest kept waning with all the issues I had. There were also some things that were just unrealistic and had me rolling my eyes throughout the story, and I couldn't ever connect or find anything to really make me want to read this book. I have seen a lot of positive reviews and readers that enjoyed this book, so if you like sports romance stories, you might still give this one a shot. This one wasn't for me at all, but that doesn't mean that it might not work for you.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
Calling It is Jen Doyle's debut novel. I always try to go in with an open mind to a debut novel, because sometimes you find some serious gems and other times it is obvious that it is an author's first book. The blurb really drew me in here though, and I absolutely love sports romance stories, so I had to give this one a shot. Unfortunately for me, this is one of those cases where it didn't work for me at all.
After almost losing his career in a car accident, professional catcher Nathan Hawkins heads home to avoid the paparazzi. Not only are the media speculating about his career and the accident, but he also just lost his fiance to his supposed best friend. But when he goes to his sister's apartment, the nearly naked woman he finds wielding a baseball bat is definitely not his sister. Nate agrees to help the town librarian with the renovations to the library and is shocked to realize that it is the woman he ran into. As the two begin to get to know one another, things quickly become more and both Dorie and Nate find themselves enjoying what is happening between them, but will either of them be ready to let go once Nate has to head back for spring training?
One of my biggest issues here was Dorie. I couldn't stand her right from the start, and honestly most of the secondary characters weren't any better. Dorie was impossible for me to connect to and I found myself wanting to reach through my Kindle more than once to strangle her. She did nothing but irritate me, and it just never got better. I especially got tired of the constant push and pull that Dorie was doing when it came to Nate. The secondary characters here annoyed me as well, often times jumping to conclusions and sticking their noses in where it didn't belong. It started right away in this book and was just impossible to come back from. The only character I found myself really liking was Nate.
I also had a really tough time with the author's writing style, and I think a lot of that could just be a personal thing. There were times that things almost seemed to be missing and the writing came off as a bit choppy. I would have to read several sentences and paragraphs multiple times to try and figure out how we got from point A to point B. It just didn't flow well, and this one was pretty slow and awkward. There wasn't really anything new or different here to grab my attention, so my interest kept waning with all the issues I had. There were also some things that were just unrealistic and had me rolling my eyes throughout the story, and I couldn't ever connect or find anything to really make me want to read this book. I have seen a lot of positive reviews and readers that enjoyed this book, so if you like sports romance stories, you might still give this one a shot. This one wasn't for me at all, but that doesn't mean that it might not work for you.
**ARC Provided by Publisher**
April 11, 2016
4 stars
I really enjoyed Calling It.
The storyline was entertaining & the characters were likable and relatable.
Nathan/Nate and Dorie were fun, sweet, they had a great connection and their chemistry was smoking.
I enjoyed watching their romance develop, loved their banter and how they would interact together.
Nate was such a sweetheart, he made me laugh, swoon and I knew he was the perfect man for Dorie.
Dorie was smart, witty and gave as good as she got. I seriously had fun watching these two fall in love.
Overall Calling It was a fun, sweet and romantic read that will leave you with a heart full of happy feels.
Looking forward to reading more from Jen Doyle in the near future.
**Thank you Carina Press for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.**
I really enjoyed Calling It.
The storyline was entertaining & the characters were likable and relatable.
Nathan/Nate and Dorie were fun, sweet, they had a great connection and their chemistry was smoking.
I enjoyed watching their romance develop, loved their banter and how they would interact together.
Nate was such a sweetheart, he made me laugh, swoon and I knew he was the perfect man for Dorie.
Dorie was smart, witty and gave as good as she got. I seriously had fun watching these two fall in love.
Overall Calling It was a fun, sweet and romantic read that will leave you with a heart full of happy feels.
Looking forward to reading more from Jen Doyle in the near future.
**Thank you Carina Press for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.**
April 11, 2016
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
I took a chance on new to me author Jennifer Doyle because well....yep the book is about a baseball player. I know, I'm so easy but I can't help it. I love the sport and with baseball season getting ready to step into high gear Calling It was the perfect book for me to pick up and read. I loved this book for a number of reasons; the first being the incredible back-story of the hero and his high school friends, the second being the heroine meeting her 17 year long obsession and almost taking him out with his own baseball bat, the third being their incredibly crazy, nosey and loveable families, and lastly the intensity between these two from their first meeting (even with a baseball bat between them). Funny, flirty, sweet yet sexy but with a whole lot of heart I thoroughly enjoyed Calling It.
As one of baseball's best catchers Nate Hawkins is use to media scrutiny but following a horrific accident that damaged his knee and the breakup with his fiancée, he is tired of the negative publicity and the speculations about the accident and his career so he heads home to Iowa to get his head on straight. What he doesn't expect is to have his head turned completely around by a woman swinging a bat at him.
Just a few weeks in her new home the last thing Lucinda "Dorie" Donelli expected was an intruder in her apartment, but realizing the intruder is her landlord's brother and the man she's been obsessed with since she was 13 years old throws her completely out of her comfort zone. Then realizing he's a really nice guy, one she easily flirts with which is out of her nature, and that he actually likes it when she challenges him on anything makes her realize she's in way over her head especially since he doesn't realize she knows who he is.
It was so easy to be swept away into this whirlwind a romance that Dorie refused to acknowledge as anything but a short term liaison, and one that Nate was sure of after two days. There was a lot of push and pull between these two, and while Dorie tried her hardest not to get attached Nate tried harder and harder to make her see how they worked. At times Dorie's stubbornness about did me in, but I could also understand that she was being realistic, she knew his background, she knew just about everything there was to know about the public him and she didn't feel she measured up. What she didn't realize is that he loved that she understood and "got" the private him and wasn't with him for his fame but because she liked his company. Nate gave some serious good woo especially surprising her not once but twice with some time with her family, and while he did a lot of things so very right he forgot that telling her wasn't enough; he had to show and prove to her how much she meant to him and how he needed her in his life.
This book would not have been the same without Nate's best friends, his teammates past and present, his family or Dorie's family. While oftentimes so many additional characters take the focus of the main characters in this case all of these people enhanced these characters; they made us see them, made us understand them and made us fall hopelessly in love with them.
This book grabbed my heart from the start and didn't let go. I enjoyed every crazy, funny, emotional, heart-warming minute of it and I can't wait to read the next one in this series!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
I took a chance on new to me author Jennifer Doyle because well....yep the book is about a baseball player. I know, I'm so easy but I can't help it. I love the sport and with baseball season getting ready to step into high gear Calling It was the perfect book for me to pick up and read. I loved this book for a number of reasons; the first being the incredible back-story of the hero and his high school friends, the second being the heroine meeting her 17 year long obsession and almost taking him out with his own baseball bat, the third being their incredibly crazy, nosey and loveable families, and lastly the intensity between these two from their first meeting (even with a baseball bat between them). Funny, flirty, sweet yet sexy but with a whole lot of heart I thoroughly enjoyed Calling It.
As one of baseball's best catchers Nate Hawkins is use to media scrutiny but following a horrific accident that damaged his knee and the breakup with his fiancée, he is tired of the negative publicity and the speculations about the accident and his career so he heads home to Iowa to get his head on straight. What he doesn't expect is to have his head turned completely around by a woman swinging a bat at him.
Just a few weeks in her new home the last thing Lucinda "Dorie" Donelli expected was an intruder in her apartment, but realizing the intruder is her landlord's brother and the man she's been obsessed with since she was 13 years old throws her completely out of her comfort zone. Then realizing he's a really nice guy, one she easily flirts with which is out of her nature, and that he actually likes it when she challenges him on anything makes her realize she's in way over her head especially since he doesn't realize she knows who he is.
It was so easy to be swept away into this whirlwind a romance that Dorie refused to acknowledge as anything but a short term liaison, and one that Nate was sure of after two days. There was a lot of push and pull between these two, and while Dorie tried her hardest not to get attached Nate tried harder and harder to make her see how they worked. At times Dorie's stubbornness about did me in, but I could also understand that she was being realistic, she knew his background, she knew just about everything there was to know about the public him and she didn't feel she measured up. What she didn't realize is that he loved that she understood and "got" the private him and wasn't with him for his fame but because she liked his company. Nate gave some serious good woo especially surprising her not once but twice with some time with her family, and while he did a lot of things so very right he forgot that telling her wasn't enough; he had to show and prove to her how much she meant to him and how he needed her in his life.
This book would not have been the same without Nate's best friends, his teammates past and present, his family or Dorie's family. While oftentimes so many additional characters take the focus of the main characters in this case all of these people enhanced these characters; they made us see them, made us understand them and made us fall hopelessly in love with them.
This book grabbed my heart from the start and didn't let go. I enjoyed every crazy, funny, emotional, heart-warming minute of it and I can't wait to read the next one in this series!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
April 11, 2016
My Review:
I knew going into this book that this was a debut novel for this author and the entire time I read it, I was stunned. This is... simply put... one of the best, most well thought out contemporary romance books I have read in a long, long time. I adored this story and the characters were amazing. I wanted to crawl into the book and become friends with all of them.
Everyone who reads my reviews knows that I adore sports romance books, but this one went one step higher...it's a sports romance (hero is a pro catcher) AND the heroine is a librarian. Aww...I loved it so much. But that's not all there is to love about this book.
Nate is a 33 yo catcher...reputedly one of the best in baseball, but when the book begins he's coming off the worst 6 weeks of his life. His fiance was cheating on him and they were in a horrific car accident. It left him without a fiance, with a bum knee, and rumors about what actually happened that have him reeling both professionally and personally. So he goes home...and finds Dorie living in his apartment.
Dorie has fantasized about Nate Hawkins her entire adult life, but when he breaks into her apartment, she doesn't have her glasses on so she has no idea who he is. She can't see anything except he's a big guy. I loved her so much. She has six older brothers. She knows how to hold her own with big, alpha males and doesn't let anything intimidate her (at least on the surface). Inside she's filled with doubts and worries...her fantasy can't really happen. That just doesn't happen to people like her. She's a librarian...enough said.
But it is happening and Nate is falling super-fast. His issue...he can't convince her that he's really all-in with them. He can't get her to commit in believing in them. Gah...I loved this story so, so much!!
But while the romance was so totally swoon-worthy, that wasn't all this book had going for it. No, there was so much more. See, Nate is part of a group of five guys who are called The Dream for winning the state basketball championship in high school. These guys are all still really close and I'm hoping they all get a story. There are also all the pro sports guys who show up in the story. Did you see when I talked about Dorie being the youngest with six older brothers? She's grown up as a sports fanatic...the scene with her playing poker with them was classic. She was so much the perfect heroine. I loved her so much.
But that's also why Dorie and Nate are so perfect together. He grew up with a passel of sisters. She has all those brothers. They just get one another. And the dialogue and the action within the story all works so perfectly. Like I said when I started this review, I am STUNNED that this is a debut book for this author. She honestly couldn't have written it any better. I cannot wait for the next one. This author just became an auto-buy for me. I can't wait for more, but in the meantime...YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I knew going into this book that this was a debut novel for this author and the entire time I read it, I was stunned. This is... simply put... one of the best, most well thought out contemporary romance books I have read in a long, long time. I adored this story and the characters were amazing. I wanted to crawl into the book and become friends with all of them.
Everyone who reads my reviews knows that I adore sports romance books, but this one went one step higher...it's a sports romance (hero is a pro catcher) AND the heroine is a librarian. Aww...I loved it so much. But that's not all there is to love about this book.
Nate is a 33 yo catcher...reputedly one of the best in baseball, but when the book begins he's coming off the worst 6 weeks of his life. His fiance was cheating on him and they were in a horrific car accident. It left him without a fiance, with a bum knee, and rumors about what actually happened that have him reeling both professionally and personally. So he goes home...and finds Dorie living in his apartment.
Dorie has fantasized about Nate Hawkins her entire adult life, but when he breaks into her apartment, she doesn't have her glasses on so she has no idea who he is. She can't see anything except he's a big guy. I loved her so much. She has six older brothers. She knows how to hold her own with big, alpha males and doesn't let anything intimidate her (at least on the surface). Inside she's filled with doubts and worries...her fantasy can't really happen. That just doesn't happen to people like her. She's a librarian...enough said.
But it is happening and Nate is falling super-fast. His issue...he can't convince her that he's really all-in with them. He can't get her to commit in believing in them. Gah...I loved this story so, so much!!
But while the romance was so totally swoon-worthy, that wasn't all this book had going for it. No, there was so much more. See, Nate is part of a group of five guys who are called The Dream for winning the state basketball championship in high school. These guys are all still really close and I'm hoping they all get a story. There are also all the pro sports guys who show up in the story. Did you see when I talked about Dorie being the youngest with six older brothers? She's grown up as a sports fanatic...the scene with her playing poker with them was classic. She was so much the perfect heroine. I loved her so much.
But that's also why Dorie and Nate are so perfect together. He grew up with a passel of sisters. She has all those brothers. They just get one another. And the dialogue and the action within the story all works so perfectly. Like I said when I started this review, I am STUNNED that this is a debut book for this author. She honestly couldn't have written it any better. I cannot wait for the next one. This author just became an auto-buy for me. I can't wait for more, but in the meantime...YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 10, 2016
Find this review and more at
kimberlyfaye reads.
I do love a good sports romance... even if it's baseball, which isn't my favorite sport. The cover of Calling It called my name when I first saw it. Then, once I read the blurb, I knew this book was pretty much made for me. It sounded like it would be cute and swoony. It was that and more.
I adored Dorie and Nate together. They had oodles of chemistry and their banter was top notch. I laughed and swooned my way through half the book. Dorie was a girl after my own heart, what with her career as a librarian and all her sports knowledge. I loved the premise of the librarian getting a chance to meet – and a whole lot more – the big time baseball player she'd been crushing on for years. I'd have been falling all over myself. Dorie handled herself a lot better. :) Nate was super swoony, sexy as sin and, despite media reports, a really good guy. I wasn't expecting a book with a ton of steam, but Calling It was quite a bit hotter than I thought it would be, which was a total bonus. And Nate's big, grand gesture? All the freaking feels. ALL. OF. THEM.
Dorie and Nate are just part of the story. I loved Dorie's wacky family and found myself intrigued by Nate's teammates. I thought this was a standalone when I originally picked it up, but I was pleasantly surprised to learn it's actually the first in a new series of standalones. Since I enjoyed the secondary characters so much, I can't tell you how excited this makes me. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for Called Up this August.
Calling It was a great debut. I can't wait to read more from Jen!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
I do love a good sports romance... even if it's baseball, which isn't my favorite sport. The cover of Calling It called my name when I first saw it. Then, once I read the blurb, I knew this book was pretty much made for me. It sounded like it would be cute and swoony. It was that and more.
I adored Dorie and Nate together. They had oodles of chemistry and their banter was top notch. I laughed and swooned my way through half the book. Dorie was a girl after my own heart, what with her career as a librarian and all her sports knowledge. I loved the premise of the librarian getting a chance to meet – and a whole lot more – the big time baseball player she'd been crushing on for years. I'd have been falling all over myself. Dorie handled herself a lot better. :) Nate was super swoony, sexy as sin and, despite media reports, a really good guy. I wasn't expecting a book with a ton of steam, but Calling It was quite a bit hotter than I thought it would be, which was a total bonus. And Nate's big, grand gesture? All the freaking feels. ALL. OF. THEM.
Dorie and Nate are just part of the story. I loved Dorie's wacky family and found myself intrigued by Nate's teammates. I thought this was a standalone when I originally picked it up, but I was pleasantly surprised to learn it's actually the first in a new series of standalones. Since I enjoyed the secondary characters so much, I can't tell you how excited this makes me. I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for Called Up this August.
Calling It was a great debut. I can't wait to read more from Jen!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
"Because a dream doesn't need walls or a pretty coat of paint. It needs the barest of foundations, a friend (or four), and a spark just strong enough to ignite the flame."
"I have felt this way before. That's the problem," she cried, the anger and frustration spilling over. "I've been in love with Nate Hawkins for my entire life. And then... And then you come along and you're perfect. Like I dreamed it up and there you were. And it's sucking me in, the thought that you could actually be in love with me."
August 27, 2017
*I was generously provided with a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. That doesn't affect my review in any way*
This book was incredibly swoon-worthy. It's about a girl who grew up as the only girl in a family with over-protective brothers basically guarding her her whole life. She's a huge baseball fan, and she's obsessed with Nate Hawkins, a former legend basketball player turned one of the best baseball players in history. I related a lot to Dorie's Nathan Hawkins obsession. I remember obsessing over some soccer players back in the old days. And you know what? Forget about soccer/baseball/basketball players. Meeting a celebrity of any kind that you've been crushing on since God-knows-when would be literally surreal. I can't imagine my reaction! And playing it cool like Dorie did (or tried to do) would definitely be out of the question. But then I really understood her trust issues when it came to her relationship with Nate. And her low self esteem, because well, how on Earth could you fathom the fact that your childhood celebrity crush is actually falling for you? Totally understandable!
I must admit that since I'm not really a baseball fan, I found some parts of the book really hard to grasp. Despite that, I think Dorie was the most kickass character in the book, although no one compares to to Lola, who is my favorite character in the series and whose story was my absolute favorite.
This book was incredibly swoon-worthy. It's about a girl who grew up as the only girl in a family with over-protective brothers basically guarding her her whole life. She's a huge baseball fan, and she's obsessed with Nate Hawkins, a former legend basketball player turned one of the best baseball players in history. I related a lot to Dorie's Nathan Hawkins obsession. I remember obsessing over some soccer players back in the old days. And you know what? Forget about soccer/baseball/basketball players. Meeting a celebrity of any kind that you've been crushing on since God-knows-when would be literally surreal. I can't imagine my reaction! And playing it cool like Dorie did (or tried to do) would definitely be out of the question. But then I really understood her trust issues when it came to her relationship with Nate. And her low self esteem, because well, how on Earth could you fathom the fact that your childhood celebrity crush is actually falling for you? Totally understandable!
I must admit that since I'm not really a baseball fan, I found some parts of the book really hard to grasp. Despite that, I think Dorie was the most kickass character in the book, although no one compares to to Lola, who is my favorite character in the series and whose story was my absolute favorite.
July 17, 2016
This is a sweet, feel-good romance. When Dorrie meets her fantasy pin-up in real life, she struggles to accept that he might just like her back.
This is a small town love story. Set in a town called Inspiration and starring the town’s new librarian, this was always going to be toothachingly sweet with a side of cute. Both Nate and Dorrie have large happy families and Dorrie is quickly embraced by her entire new town.
Professional baseball player Nate Hawkins is a town legend who is tired of living life in the fast lane. Dorrie is welcome a change from the women he meets as a professional athlete and he finds himself increasingly drawn back to his hometown and the new librarian.
The connection between Dorrie and Nate feels real. There are some really romantic moments, a little bit of angst and a helping of drama. I enjoyed the pair as a couple and I liked them with their friends and family.
This is a gentle, predictable romance. But like a familiar episode of The Gilmore Girls, sometimes we all need a little bit of small-town love.
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a small town love story. Set in a town called Inspiration and starring the town’s new librarian, this was always going to be toothachingly sweet with a side of cute. Both Nate and Dorrie have large happy families and Dorrie is quickly embraced by her entire new town.
Professional baseball player Nate Hawkins is a town legend who is tired of living life in the fast lane. Dorrie is welcome a change from the women he meets as a professional athlete and he finds himself increasingly drawn back to his hometown and the new librarian.
The connection between Dorrie and Nate feels real. There are some really romantic moments, a little bit of angst and a helping of drama. I enjoyed the pair as a couple and I liked them with their friends and family.
This is a gentle, predictable romance. But like a familiar episode of The Gilmore Girls, sometimes we all need a little bit of small-town love.
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
May 1, 2016
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
4.5 awesome *s
I am a big fan of sports romances - make the leading lady a librarian, and somehow you strike my reading gold! This is a really enjoyable story, with very appealing characters, and the kind of amusing twists and turns that are so zany that they are more likely to be truth than fiction. The first scene where Dorie doesn't have her glasses on, so really has no idea who is in her kitchen is the first of many! And as they get to know each other and interact with his friends, it just gets better and better. I loved her insecurities, and his insistence of being genuine. Sweet, hot and easy reading - I am hoping that Ms Doyle will be revisiting their friends and giving us their HEAs too.
4.5 awesome *s
I am a big fan of sports romances - make the leading lady a librarian, and somehow you strike my reading gold! This is a really enjoyable story, with very appealing characters, and the kind of amusing twists and turns that are so zany that they are more likely to be truth than fiction. The first scene where Dorie doesn't have her glasses on, so really has no idea who is in her kitchen is the first of many! And as they get to know each other and interact with his friends, it just gets better and better. I loved her insecurities, and his insistence of being genuine. Sweet, hot and easy reading - I am hoping that Ms Doyle will be revisiting their friends and giving us their HEAs too.
July 13, 2016
This was a perfectly cute romance novel. It has baseball, trivia, and lots of friends and family. I love when a book brings such great characters together. I enjoyed the way they introduced characters that will definitely be used in later books, but did not steal the focus away from the two main characters. I hate when a female character compromises her beliefs for love and gives up what they want. This is why I enjoyed this book so much because she keeps true and makes the man meet her at least halfway. An adorable read. (Plus I'm a librarian and I love me some baseball players.)
November 15, 2018
Reviewed by Jen
Book provided by Contest win
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I was completely unaware of Jen Doyle’s books when I won a copy of Calling It during a Facebook contest. But seeing as I like small town romances and sports romances, I was excited to try out this new-to-me author. And I’m glad I did. This was a great start to a promising series.
Nate is an all-star baseball play who returns to his hometown to rehab after a nasty accident and public ending to his engagement. He’s licking his wounds, staying out of the limelight and trying to figure out what’s next for him. He’s not looking for any sort of involvement, but is drawn to Dorie, the new local librarian. Dorie is new to town, taking her dream job and the chance to escape her big, protective family. She doesn’t recognize Nate when she first meets him, in a rather funny scene, and it’s so refreshing for Nate. What then ensues is some flirting, a kind of friends with benefits relationship and since we’re talking about a romance, a happily ever after.
The relationship between these two is the highlight of this book for me. I loved the the dance around each other that Nate and Dorie did. I liked that Dorie was hesitant to get involved with such a famous person and had to get over the related fears and that Nate was willing to jump in feet first after recently ending a disastrous relationship. But I think the fact that there actually IS a romance and not just a sudden “I love you and everything is going to work out great” ending is what won me over.
This book made me laugh and cry and I was so ready to jump into the next book as soon as I read “The End”. If you’re looking for an emotional roller coaster ride set in a small town, this might just be the book for you. And bonus points for it being a sports story as well.
Book provided by Contest win
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I was completely unaware of Jen Doyle’s books when I won a copy of Calling It during a Facebook contest. But seeing as I like small town romances and sports romances, I was excited to try out this new-to-me author. And I’m glad I did. This was a great start to a promising series.
Nate is an all-star baseball play who returns to his hometown to rehab after a nasty accident and public ending to his engagement. He’s licking his wounds, staying out of the limelight and trying to figure out what’s next for him. He’s not looking for any sort of involvement, but is drawn to Dorie, the new local librarian. Dorie is new to town, taking her dream job and the chance to escape her big, protective family. She doesn’t recognize Nate when she first meets him, in a rather funny scene, and it’s so refreshing for Nate. What then ensues is some flirting, a kind of friends with benefits relationship and since we’re talking about a romance, a happily ever after.
The relationship between these two is the highlight of this book for me. I loved the the dance around each other that Nate and Dorie did. I liked that Dorie was hesitant to get involved with such a famous person and had to get over the related fears and that Nate was willing to jump in feet first after recently ending a disastrous relationship. But I think the fact that there actually IS a romance and not just a sudden “I love you and everything is going to work out great” ending is what won me over.
This book made me laugh and cry and I was so ready to jump into the next book as soon as I read “The End”. If you’re looking for an emotional roller coaster ride set in a small town, this might just be the book for you. And bonus points for it being a sports story as well.
October 30, 2019
Nate is a baseball player from a small town that has had a rough patch. He found out his fiance was cheating on him and he got into a severe car accident that could have ended his career. He though he did nothing wrong to cause the accident there is speculation he did, so he takes off to crash in his town to be with family.
Dorie (Lucinda) is the youngest with 6 older brothers. She took a job as the town librarian and gets to (essentially) start from scratch re-building the towns library that was harmed by recent weather (and neglect). Unbeknownst to Nate, his sister has rented his apt to Dorie.
They meet and things take off from there. I enjoyed the secondary characters, Nate's family/friends, Dories family/friends. I liked that Nate make mistakes and I felt he owned up to them (regarding family and not having much contact for a few years). While I understood Dorie's reluctance and fear, it did get old. I did find I had a hard time putting this down and was thoroughly entertained and invested in the story.
Dorie (Lucinda) is the youngest with 6 older brothers. She took a job as the town librarian and gets to (essentially) start from scratch re-building the towns library that was harmed by recent weather (and neglect). Unbeknownst to Nate, his sister has rented his apt to Dorie.
They meet and things take off from there. I enjoyed the secondary characters, Nate's family/friends, Dories family/friends. I liked that Nate make mistakes and I felt he owned up to them (regarding family and not having much contact for a few years). While I understood Dorie's reluctance and fear, it did get old. I did find I had a hard time putting this down and was thoroughly entertained and invested in the story.
June 3, 2017
2.5-3 stars
I feel so bad that it took me a year to come back to this but the first 30% was so freaking slow it was almost boring. This time around I persevered, and when I passed the 30% mark the story started becoming more palatable and I even enjoyed it until the end. Dorie's insecurities about Nate were understandable but still frustrating because Nate kept trying to prove himself but she couldn't get past her fears to trust him. But I love that they were both adults about it, and I like how the conflicts in this were resolved.
I feel so bad that it took me a year to come back to this but the first 30% was so freaking slow it was almost boring. This time around I persevered, and when I passed the 30% mark the story started becoming more palatable and I even enjoyed it until the end. Dorie's insecurities about Nate were understandable but still frustrating because Nate kept trying to prove himself but she couldn't get past her fears to trust him. But I love that they were both adults about it, and I like how the conflicts in this were resolved.
Read
October 25, 2017A fun story to read. I enjoyed and cared about the characters, which is a necessity for me. Dorie, a librarian in a small Iowa town, has had a lifetime crush on Nate, her favorite catcher, practically her whole life. Fate brought them together and we get to watch him being brought to his knees very quckly. Dorie resists though knowing that their two lives can never mesh. But, of course, they get their HEA in grand style. I'll read the next one in the series for sure.
April 25, 2017
Loved LOVE this series. Nate Hawkins is such an amazing sports guy to fall in love with. Dorie is one tough as nails lady. She just wasn't ready to have Nate show up at her place one night that changed her forever.
This couple made me laugh out loud and swoon all with in the same page.
This couple made me laugh out loud and swoon all with in the same page.
July 2, 2019
3.5 due to a combination of insta-love and an easily resolved obstacle dragged out over the entire novel, but rounding up due to Dorie’s badassery, great B plots, and my general love of sports romance.
January 29, 2017
A great book! I loved this couple (and their family and friends)! Can't wait to read more about the Dream guys!
March 9, 2016
CALLING IT is a supercharged read filled with more chemistry than I've read in a long time! It's the perfect companion piece to the start of the baseball season!
Baseball player Nate Hawkins just needs to get away. Between the car wreck that happened after learning his buddy was boning his fiancée and the press questioning his spring playing ability, he's fed up. Returning home to Iowa seems like a good idea, and finding the most stunning, half naked and soaking wet woman he's ever seen, wielding his own baseball bat and living in the apartment his sister was supposed to be living in? Best. Idea. Ever.
Dorie Donelli is sure one of her gazillion brothers sent this dude to break into her house and scare her, but when she finds out its Nate freaking Hawkins? She's dying here! She's had the hugest crush on him since his rise to fame as part of the famous basketball "Iowa Dream" team in high school. And the more time the two spend together, the more they realize there's some seriously REAL heat building between them. But Nate can't seem to convince Dorie that what he's feeling isn't just lust. It'll take some major league moves for Dorie to believe their fling isn't just her own "dream."
I'll admit, my first thought on CALLING IT was that Dorie's reaction to finding a strange man in her new apartment in her new town was highly suspicious. Thankfully, Ms. Doyle won me over with witty banter, insane chemistry and delicious sex scenes that had me drooling and googling yummy baseball players for some book boyfriend inspiration (and staying up faaaar past my bedtime for the elusive "just one more chapter").
Dorie. What can I say about Dorie!? She's probably one of my most favorite female MC's ever! With 6 older brothers, she's able to banter wicked sports stats with the most famous sports figures in the world, yet totally embraces her femininity. A huge bookworm who's killer at trivia yet able to beat a man twice her size at an arm wrestling contest. In contrast, Nate has all sisters, so he has an insight into women that most men wouldn't. He's sweet, sexy and totally jaded until Dorie gut punches him and he falls. Hard. It was sooo fabulous! And the SEX, woooomama the sex! The library, the hood of a million dollar car…it was all fuel for fantasies for a long time! This book is quite long, and the plot nothing that really hasn't been done before, but somehow Ms. Doyle's fresh writing just lit a fuse that I didn't want to end. I'm in awe that CALLING IT is her first novel. She absolutely killed it!
Bottom Line: I can't find much specific information on this new and sexy series other than that another book will be out later in '16, which is making me desperate for more of the Iowa Dream, the Chicago Watchmen and even the Donelli clan!! Well played, Ms. Doyle! - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
Baseball player Nate Hawkins just needs to get away. Between the car wreck that happened after learning his buddy was boning his fiancée and the press questioning his spring playing ability, he's fed up. Returning home to Iowa seems like a good idea, and finding the most stunning, half naked and soaking wet woman he's ever seen, wielding his own baseball bat and living in the apartment his sister was supposed to be living in? Best. Idea. Ever.
Dorie Donelli is sure one of her gazillion brothers sent this dude to break into her house and scare her, but when she finds out its Nate freaking Hawkins? She's dying here! She's had the hugest crush on him since his rise to fame as part of the famous basketball "Iowa Dream" team in high school. And the more time the two spend together, the more they realize there's some seriously REAL heat building between them. But Nate can't seem to convince Dorie that what he's feeling isn't just lust. It'll take some major league moves for Dorie to believe their fling isn't just her own "dream."
I'll admit, my first thought on CALLING IT was that Dorie's reaction to finding a strange man in her new apartment in her new town was highly suspicious. Thankfully, Ms. Doyle won me over with witty banter, insane chemistry and delicious sex scenes that had me drooling and googling yummy baseball players for some book boyfriend inspiration (and staying up faaaar past my bedtime for the elusive "just one more chapter").
Dorie. What can I say about Dorie!? She's probably one of my most favorite female MC's ever! With 6 older brothers, she's able to banter wicked sports stats with the most famous sports figures in the world, yet totally embraces her femininity. A huge bookworm who's killer at trivia yet able to beat a man twice her size at an arm wrestling contest. In contrast, Nate has all sisters, so he has an insight into women that most men wouldn't. He's sweet, sexy and totally jaded until Dorie gut punches him and he falls. Hard. It was sooo fabulous! And the SEX, woooomama the sex! The library, the hood of a million dollar car…it was all fuel for fantasies for a long time! This book is quite long, and the plot nothing that really hasn't been done before, but somehow Ms. Doyle's fresh writing just lit a fuse that I didn't want to end. I'm in awe that CALLING IT is her first novel. She absolutely killed it!
Bottom Line: I can't find much specific information on this new and sexy series other than that another book will be out later in '16, which is making me desperate for more of the Iowa Dream, the Chicago Watchmen and even the Donelli clan!! Well played, Ms. Doyle! - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
March 5, 2016
I absolutely love sports romance novels and I get excited when a new author comes out. After reading the blurb I knew I had to read this and honestly I couldn't wait.
In this book we meet catcher Nathan who is recovering from an accident that left him not only hurt but dumped by his high profile fiancé. He decides to leave Chicago to go back home to Iowa to lay low and regroup. When he comes into town he decides to stay with his sister but what greets him is a strange woman wearing a robe and holding a baseball bat.
Dorie left Boston to gain some space from her 6 brothers so when a stranger comes into the place she is renting she figures it's one of her brothers friends but once she sees who it is she can't believe it. Dorie has been in love with Nathan as long as she could remember and she never thought he would want someone like her but sparks between them start flying and although she set a limit on their time together Nathan is playing to win so she better man up and get ready.
For starters I really, really liked the characters. Not only did Doyle write them with witty humor but she brought them to life. They had real problems and not the kind when you read a romance and say yeah this would never happen but the problems of being homesick, falling in love right away, jealousy and maintaining the distance you need to protect yourself.
Nathan and Dorie were likable, had really great chemistry and dialogue that was not only sweet but funny. I was actually very surprised on how many sex scenes their was in this book but glad the author switched it up a little.
I also really enjoyed getting to know Nathan's sisters and the friends he grew up with. Normally this would be the part where I would say I can't wait to see if his teammates get books but nope I want his friends that he grew up with and played basketball with in Iowa to have their own stories.
At first I was a little disappointed that Nathan didn't have much field time but I'm so glad with how the story evolved. Although these characters fall hard for one another I enjoyed Dorie giving Nathan a run for his money.
Again I really liked this book and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more by Doyle and this new series.
In this book we meet catcher Nathan who is recovering from an accident that left him not only hurt but dumped by his high profile fiancé. He decides to leave Chicago to go back home to Iowa to lay low and regroup. When he comes into town he decides to stay with his sister but what greets him is a strange woman wearing a robe and holding a baseball bat.
Dorie left Boston to gain some space from her 6 brothers so when a stranger comes into the place she is renting she figures it's one of her brothers friends but once she sees who it is she can't believe it. Dorie has been in love with Nathan as long as she could remember and she never thought he would want someone like her but sparks between them start flying and although she set a limit on their time together Nathan is playing to win so she better man up and get ready.
For starters I really, really liked the characters. Not only did Doyle write them with witty humor but she brought them to life. They had real problems and not the kind when you read a romance and say yeah this would never happen but the problems of being homesick, falling in love right away, jealousy and maintaining the distance you need to protect yourself.
Nathan and Dorie were likable, had really great chemistry and dialogue that was not only sweet but funny. I was actually very surprised on how many sex scenes their was in this book but glad the author switched it up a little.
I also really enjoyed getting to know Nathan's sisters and the friends he grew up with. Normally this would be the part where I would say I can't wait to see if his teammates get books but nope I want his friends that he grew up with and played basketball with in Iowa to have their own stories.
At first I was a little disappointed that Nathan didn't have much field time but I'm so glad with how the story evolved. Although these characters fall hard for one another I enjoyed Dorie giving Nathan a run for his money.
Again I really liked this book and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more by Doyle and this new series.
December 27, 2016
Dorie loves sports, especially baseball, and Nate Hawkins is her idol. The last thing she expects is to meet him in person. She's moved away from her family, to a new town for work and she's there to rebuild the library. Nate's home for a while after a terrible accident that might have ruined his career. When one night Dorie's relaxing in her bathtub she finds someone in her kitchen and she has no idea who he is and why he's there. Even though she threatens to hit him Nate immediately likes Dorie, he thinks she's special. Only is dating the man who's the star of all your fantasies a good idea? Dorie tells herself it's only temporary, she's one of Nate's flings and nothing more. They have three weeks together and then she has to forget about him. Can she really do it and what about Nate?
Calling It is a sweet story about a sportsman who needs a break. Nate hopes to spend some time with the friends and family members he's neglected for too long and instead he meets a woman who steals his heart. Nate and Dorie have amazing chemistry and I loved their banter. Dorie can't believe he'll ever really be hers. He's a dream and nothing more and Nate is practically perfect in reality, so it must be too good to be true. I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. I liked that Dorie is smart and that she's strong. She's also very stubborn and she stands her ground. She's grown up with a lot of brothers and knows how to handle large groups of men, which was fun to read about. Nate needs a new start and with Dorie he seems to get a chance, but it's definitely not an easy one. He has to fight to make things well for himself again and I loved how he never gives up.
Jen Doyle's writing has a good flow. Calling It is a wonderful story. It has all the ingredients of a great romance. I liked the beauty of the main characters, both inside and out, I love romantic stories about sports and the main characters are one hundred percent right for each other. Calling It is a story about true love. I'm a firm believer and enjoy reading about this topic very much. If you like romantic stories with baseball heroes Calling It will be an excellent choice.
Calling It is a sweet story about a sportsman who needs a break. Nate hopes to spend some time with the friends and family members he's neglected for too long and instead he meets a woman who steals his heart. Nate and Dorie have amazing chemistry and I loved their banter. Dorie can't believe he'll ever really be hers. He's a dream and nothing more and Nate is practically perfect in reality, so it must be too good to be true. I enjoyed watching their relationship develop. I liked that Dorie is smart and that she's strong. She's also very stubborn and she stands her ground. She's grown up with a lot of brothers and knows how to handle large groups of men, which was fun to read about. Nate needs a new start and with Dorie he seems to get a chance, but it's definitely not an easy one. He has to fight to make things well for himself again and I loved how he never gives up.
Jen Doyle's writing has a good flow. Calling It is a wonderful story. It has all the ingredients of a great romance. I liked the beauty of the main characters, both inside and out, I love romantic stories about sports and the main characters are one hundred percent right for each other. Calling It is a story about true love. I'm a firm believer and enjoy reading about this topic very much. If you like romantic stories with baseball heroes Calling It will be an excellent choice.
April 6, 2016
3.5 Stars, 3 Flames
All Nate wanted to do was go back to his hometown of Inspiration for some R&R before he started with his new team, the Watchmen. He never expected to barge in on a bat-toting, robe-wearing goddess. Lust at first sight yes. What he ended up getting was a love that would last; now only if he could convince her to take that chance on him.
From a lover of baseball I thought this contemporary romance hit the spot. Miss Doyle incorporated great sport heroes from both the past and present as well as the love/hate relationship between Boston and New York. It was entertaining to see Dorie aka Lucianda, keep up with the Nate’s boys thanks to her upbringing with six brothers. Despite the deep bond she has with her family she was tired living in the shadow of her brothers; so she set out to Inspiration, Iowa, to help rebuild the library that fell to disarray after a few natural disasters.
At the beginning of the book when Dorie and Nate finally meet it’s a case of mistaken identity, at first, on Dorie’s part. Granted since she did not have her glasses on she couldn’t see the inches in front of her face. When she recognizes him as her fantasy celebrity baseball star, she does not let on. Nor does he tell her who he is but stays under the impression he is DB. Sadly, about 35% into the book does it finally come out that they were both lying and they are crazy mad at each other. Yet, when the issue is resolved Nate keeps bringing it back up or when details about how much she knew about sports they would argue. However, she gave as good as she got. She did not let Nate get away with anything.
In the end it was a sweet, funny, and steamy read; which was totally unexpected but a pleasant surprise. I hope we get to see more of The Dream boys as well as Nate’s sisters.
I was gifted this book from the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review. The opinions and ratings are my own and I was in no way compensated.
All Nate wanted to do was go back to his hometown of Inspiration for some R&R before he started with his new team, the Watchmen. He never expected to barge in on a bat-toting, robe-wearing goddess. Lust at first sight yes. What he ended up getting was a love that would last; now only if he could convince her to take that chance on him.
From a lover of baseball I thought this contemporary romance hit the spot. Miss Doyle incorporated great sport heroes from both the past and present as well as the love/hate relationship between Boston and New York. It was entertaining to see Dorie aka Lucianda, keep up with the Nate’s boys thanks to her upbringing with six brothers. Despite the deep bond she has with her family she was tired living in the shadow of her brothers; so she set out to Inspiration, Iowa, to help rebuild the library that fell to disarray after a few natural disasters.
At the beginning of the book when Dorie and Nate finally meet it’s a case of mistaken identity, at first, on Dorie’s part. Granted since she did not have her glasses on she couldn’t see the inches in front of her face. When she recognizes him as her fantasy celebrity baseball star, she does not let on. Nor does he tell her who he is but stays under the impression he is DB. Sadly, about 35% into the book does it finally come out that they were both lying and they are crazy mad at each other. Yet, when the issue is resolved Nate keeps bringing it back up or when details about how much she knew about sports they would argue. However, she gave as good as she got. She did not let Nate get away with anything.
In the end it was a sweet, funny, and steamy read; which was totally unexpected but a pleasant surprise. I hope we get to see more of The Dream boys as well as Nate’s sisters.
I was gifted this book from the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review. The opinions and ratings are my own and I was in no way compensated.
June 18, 2016
4.25 stars
OH MY! I loved this book!
When I was at 40%, I thought of DNF-ing because it got kind of boring and I am not really a fan of third person POV but I pushed through because I felt like I am gonna miss something huge. Thank God I decided to finish this because it was awesome! *Squeals*
There is something about Jen Doyle's writing that will really pull you in, that will make you connect to the characters. It is hard to explain but it's like I know Nate and Dorie, personally. Their chemistry is palpable. In fact, when I fell in love with their "relationship" I didn't notice that they had only known each for like 5 days. Lmao. I hate instalove but this one is an exception.
There was also a time when I wished for Nate and Dorie to not end up together because I got annoyed at Dorie for fighting her feelings to the point of losing Nate. Because Nate was trying so hard but Dorie is a tough chick. Though, I understood where she was coming from. I mean, she really is with Nate Hawkins? Come on. The chance of their "relationship" not ending will is like 80%.
*Squeals* again because I had a lot of feels reading this. I really enjoyed this one. Jen Doyle, you beautiful human being, thank you for this.
Because what she still couldn't quite get past and she told his sister, "He's Nate Hawkins. How can this possibly work?"
This time Fitz didn't bother to hide her smile. Unknowingly echoing her brother's words, she said, "Because it it's what you want, then you'll make it work."
OH MY! I loved this book!
When I was at 40%, I thought of DNF-ing because it got kind of boring and I am not really a fan of third person POV but I pushed through because I felt like I am gonna miss something huge. Thank God I decided to finish this because it was awesome! *Squeals*
There is something about Jen Doyle's writing that will really pull you in, that will make you connect to the characters. It is hard to explain but it's like I know Nate and Dorie, personally. Their chemistry is palpable. In fact, when I fell in love with their "relationship" I didn't notice that they had only known each for like 5 days. Lmao. I hate instalove but this one is an exception.
There was also a time when I wished for Nate and Dorie to not end up together because I got annoyed at Dorie for fighting her feelings to the point of losing Nate. Because Nate was trying so hard but Dorie is a tough chick. Though, I understood where she was coming from. I mean, she really is with Nate Hawkins? Come on. The chance of their "relationship" not ending will is like 80%.
Except then her eyes clouded over and she looked down, and right there in that moment, he knew that she was done, that he'd gone down swinging. No matter how hard he'd tried to convince her otherwise, tonight she'd be telling him goodbye.
*Squeals* again because I had a lot of feels reading this. I really enjoyed this one. Jen Doyle, you beautiful human being, thank you for this.
September 21, 2016
Cuteee!
Song listened to while reading:
Jason Reeves - Reaching
Song listened to while reading:
Jason Reeves - Reaching
April 10, 2016
*I received this book free from Netgalley on behalf of Tasty Books Tours in exchange for an honest review*
**4.5 stars**
Nathan Hawkins is a baseball player in Chicago. After a near career ending car accident and a break up with his fiancé he decides he needs out of Chicago for a while. Heading home to see his family he decides the best place to go is his sister’s apartment since he pretty much owns it and has his own key. When he arrives unannounced he is greeted by a half-naked woman that is threatening him with his own baseball bat.
Dorie Donelli moved away from home to start her own life as a librarian. Dorie is a huge sports fan and she has fantasied about Nate Hawkins since she was a little girl. Never in her life did she imagine she would move to his home town and come face to face with him in her own home. Not to mention when she first meets him she does not have her glasses on and is blind as a bat.
Once she realizes who he is she continues the act of not knowing who he is since it seems he needs a break from reality. That does not last very long since his entire family lives in this one small town. Nathan has never felt this strong attraction to a woman before. But if he wants a relationship with Dorie he must get through to her that they can make this work. Dorie is dead set on this is just about sex. No real feeling involved.
This was a very good read. There is just something about those baseball players! The chemistry between Dorie and Nate is instant and oh so hot. Both of their families are funny and challenging at the same time. I sure hope this turns out to be a series!
My Favorite Moment: I have to say it was a lot of fun to read when they first met and she realized who was standing right in front of her.
**4.5 stars**
Nathan Hawkins is a baseball player in Chicago. After a near career ending car accident and a break up with his fiancé he decides he needs out of Chicago for a while. Heading home to see his family he decides the best place to go is his sister’s apartment since he pretty much owns it and has his own key. When he arrives unannounced he is greeted by a half-naked woman that is threatening him with his own baseball bat.
Dorie Donelli moved away from home to start her own life as a librarian. Dorie is a huge sports fan and she has fantasied about Nate Hawkins since she was a little girl. Never in her life did she imagine she would move to his home town and come face to face with him in her own home. Not to mention when she first meets him she does not have her glasses on and is blind as a bat.
Once she realizes who he is she continues the act of not knowing who he is since it seems he needs a break from reality. That does not last very long since his entire family lives in this one small town. Nathan has never felt this strong attraction to a woman before. But if he wants a relationship with Dorie he must get through to her that they can make this work. Dorie is dead set on this is just about sex. No real feeling involved.
This was a very good read. There is just something about those baseball players! The chemistry between Dorie and Nate is instant and oh so hot. Both of their families are funny and challenging at the same time. I sure hope this turns out to be a series!
My Favorite Moment: I have to say it was a lot of fun to read when they first met and she realized who was standing right in front of her.
March 15, 2016
I love sport romances and Calling It by Jen Doyle is an exciting addition to the trope. This story completely pulled me out from my melancholy funk and left me smiling from ear to ear. With the exception of some subplot repetitiveness, I enjoyed this novel from start to finish.
Dorie Donelli is a smart and exciting character. She recently relocated from Boston to Inspiration, Iowa, for the opportunity of rebuilding the town's library from the ground up. She is beautiful, loves baseball and her older brothers are very protective. She has always crushed on baseball superstar Nathan Hawkins, and boy is she surprised when he walks into her new apartment, with the use of his personal key.
Because Nathan is so talented and popular, his private life is not his own. He is a very kind man and the media loves to turn the happenings in his life into amazing untruths. So he returns to his hometown of Inspiration, for a little rest, relaxation and to reconnect with his family and friends. Meeting Dorie is the icing on the cake and after a very short time, he is madly in love with her. However, convincing her of that is quite a monumental task.
I love baseball, and this book put me right in the center of it on a professional level. This is a sweet and sexy story that kept me thoroughly engaged from the very first chapter. Dorie and Nathan are hot in the bedroom and I loved the way Ms. Doyle created their scorching heat. This book has a wonderful ending that I will remember for a very long time to come.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Dorie Donelli is a smart and exciting character. She recently relocated from Boston to Inspiration, Iowa, for the opportunity of rebuilding the town's library from the ground up. She is beautiful, loves baseball and her older brothers are very protective. She has always crushed on baseball superstar Nathan Hawkins, and boy is she surprised when he walks into her new apartment, with the use of his personal key.
Because Nathan is so talented and popular, his private life is not his own. He is a very kind man and the media loves to turn the happenings in his life into amazing untruths. So he returns to his hometown of Inspiration, for a little rest, relaxation and to reconnect with his family and friends. Meeting Dorie is the icing on the cake and after a very short time, he is madly in love with her. However, convincing her of that is quite a monumental task.
I love baseball, and this book put me right in the center of it on a professional level. This is a sweet and sexy story that kept me thoroughly engaged from the very first chapter. Dorie and Nathan are hot in the bedroom and I loved the way Ms. Doyle created their scorching heat. This book has a wonderful ending that I will remember for a very long time to come.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
March 21, 2016
I love sports romances and this book fast became one of my favorites and soon to be one of the most recommended! Nathan and Dorie had such a connection, chemistry, and heat from the beginning. I have no idea what I would do if I discovered the baseball crush for most of my life had suddenly appeared in my kitchen and I was in my bathrobe. Nathan is trying to escape his life in Chicago after an accident that he doesn't remember all of is threatening his career. So he heads back to his hometown for the first time in two years. Dorie is also trying to escape, but for her it is get out of Boston and her well meaning but overbearing brothers. She has a dream of a perfect library and when the opportunity pops up in the hometown of her childhood crush, she jumps at the chance. Never could either of these two dream that their individual escapes would lead them to each other. I cannot wait to see if there is another book with Nathan's friends in the works.
I was given an ARC of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an ARC of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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