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ESC Mavericks #1
Roughing the Passer
They couldn’t be more different, and yet they might just be exactly what each other needs.
Garrett Barnes is no stranger to overcoming the odds. Forced to walk away from a Division I scholarship to take care of his family, Garrett was sure he'd never play football again. When an offer comes in from the ESC Mavericks--a school near his hometown--it seems like a dream come true. There's only one catch: he's expected to single-handedly save the worst team in the state.
Diego Ruiz has known his whole life that the deck is stacked against him. The harder he tries to fight it, the more it hurts when it knocks him back down. With a lifetime of disappointment to back him up, he's stopped trying for anything more than mediocrity, both on and off the football field. If not for a promise he'd made years ago, he'd probably just be some nobody in a nowhere job.
So when Coach Ladner brings in some D1 "hero" to save the team, Diego is determined to show him exactly where hard work and perseverance get you--absolutely nowhere. Despite his best efforts, Garrett's unwavering optimism starts to get under Diego's skin. Caught on the verge of giving in, he relies on the one thing that's never failed him: his ability to get curious straight boys into bed.
As the friction between them gives way to passion, the stakes of their former rivalry increase tenfold. With both men's hearts--and a state title--on the line, there's no time for playing games. But when Diego's past comes back to remind him that everything eventually goes to hell, Garrett will have to convince him that some things are worth fighting for.
Roughing the Passer is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a HEA ending and no cliffhanger.
Garrett Barnes is no stranger to overcoming the odds. Forced to walk away from a Division I scholarship to take care of his family, Garrett was sure he'd never play football again. When an offer comes in from the ESC Mavericks--a school near his hometown--it seems like a dream come true. There's only one catch: he's expected to single-handedly save the worst team in the state.
Diego Ruiz has known his whole life that the deck is stacked against him. The harder he tries to fight it, the more it hurts when it knocks him back down. With a lifetime of disappointment to back him up, he's stopped trying for anything more than mediocrity, both on and off the football field. If not for a promise he'd made years ago, he'd probably just be some nobody in a nowhere job.
So when Coach Ladner brings in some D1 "hero" to save the team, Diego is determined to show him exactly where hard work and perseverance get you--absolutely nowhere. Despite his best efforts, Garrett's unwavering optimism starts to get under Diego's skin. Caught on the verge of giving in, he relies on the one thing that's never failed him: his ability to get curious straight boys into bed.
As the friction between them gives way to passion, the stakes of their former rivalry increase tenfold. With both men's hearts--and a state title--on the line, there's no time for playing games. But when Diego's past comes back to remind him that everything eventually goes to hell, Garrett will have to convince him that some things are worth fighting for.
Roughing the Passer is a steamy, standalone gay romance novel with a HEA ending and no cliffhanger.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2016
50 people are currently reading
429 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 3, 2017
3,5 Stars from me
This was an enjoyable read, even though there were some small bits that bothered me.
Diego is a college football player but I forgot his exact position on the team. I know he plays defence, but damn, we don't have football in the Netherlands, so don't shoot me.
He hasn't been really excited about playing and neither have his teammates. They have been going through the motions, just showing up (most of them) for training and losing a lot of games. Doesn't really help that their coach is all about the yelling and putting them down, instead of trying to chear them on. Diego is gay and out, he doesn't hide his sexualitity and he likes hooking up with straight guys, or well...guys that pretend they are straight is more like it. He hasn't had an easy life growing up, being send from one foster home to the other.
Enter Garrett. He is the new QB for the team and the way the coach raves on and on about him, you would think he was some kind of royalty. Ofcourse this doesn't sit very well with the other team-members, especially Diego. Hence Garrett's new nickname " Golden Boy ".
Diego decides pushing the new star player is the way to go. Problem is, Garrett is not an easy target. The guy has a very positive look on everything, so it's hard to break him down. After a while, even Diego starts to admire his positivity....which is not all that he starts to admire.
Now one of the problems I had with the storyline is that Garrett has never been with another man and has never considered himself gay or bi before he met Diego. When he starts feeling attracted to Diego, he just figures he's bi and that's it. He doesn't question himself or his feelings. Now I don't think that's wrong or anything (although I like a bit more internal struggle myself), but it does remind me of a shitton of other books I've read in the last couple of months. It's not really a gfy, because Garrett never says that he is only attracted to Diego. He figures, because he had to take care of his family for so long, he just didn't have time to fully explore his sexuality before.
The steam was also a bit of a let down for me. Sure there are some small scenes that were pretty hot, but most of the time, we are just told that they have a sexlife, but it doesn't get shown. This was a bit dissapointing, because we get a big tattooed football player who loves to bottom and some more scenes sexy scenes would have been great in my opinion.
There is not a whole lot of angst in this one, except some towards the end.
Anyways another great read by this author, 3,5 stars from, rounded up because the MC's were pretty great.
An ARC was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2019
I liked this!
Diego is a big bad tattooed college football player. And a definite man whore. He is constantly cruising Grindr to find someone to hook up with. And not to top as is often the case in MM books these days. Diego is not ashamed that he was a bottom through and through. I loved that.
Garrett is taking care of his dad and his 13 year old sister ever since his dad had an accident and his mom left them. He just wants to be there for them and perhaps play some ball. So when he gets asked to play for ESC Mavericks, he is thrilled, since it's so close by.
Garrett expects to get along with the team and just throw a football or two. But the coach immediately introduces him to the rest of the team as the wonder boy who is going to save the team from downfall.
The team and especially Diego is not happy with him, so Diego sets out to harass him every way he can. But Diego didn’t count on Garrett to be so incredibly optimistic. Nothing gets him down.
Garrett has been so busy with taking care of his family that he had no time in his life to date. But he did always figure he was straight. Well, turns out he was wrong, because he is very attracted to loudmouth Diego..
For 80% this is very low angst, just how I like it. I was expecting angst, since you can just feel it (especially with Diego’s background). But I was a bit disappointed anyway when it came. Not because it was really bad, but because I am just not one to like angst. Why have a stupid fight when you can just talk? It wasn’t that bad and luckily it wasn’t a break-up (which I hate).
Not a lot of sexy times, but what we got was HOT!
I really enjoyed this and other than the little bit of angst, this was a good read.
Diego is a big bad tattooed college football player. And a definite man whore. He is constantly cruising Grindr to find someone to hook up with. And not to top as is often the case in MM books these days. Diego is not ashamed that he was a bottom through and through. I loved that.
Garrett is taking care of his dad and his 13 year old sister ever since his dad had an accident and his mom left them. He just wants to be there for them and perhaps play some ball. So when he gets asked to play for ESC Mavericks, he is thrilled, since it's so close by.
Garrett expects to get along with the team and just throw a football or two. But the coach immediately introduces him to the rest of the team as the wonder boy who is going to save the team from downfall.
The team and especially Diego is not happy with him, so Diego sets out to harass him every way he can. But Diego didn’t count on Garrett to be so incredibly optimistic. Nothing gets him down.
Garrett has been so busy with taking care of his family that he had no time in his life to date. But he did always figure he was straight. Well, turns out he was wrong, because he is very attracted to loudmouth Diego..
For 80% this is very low angst, just how I like it. I was expecting angst, since you can just feel it (especially with Diego’s background). But I was a bit disappointed anyway when it came. Not because it was really bad, but because I am just not one to like angst. Why have a stupid fight when you can just talk? It wasn’t that bad and luckily it wasn’t a break-up (which I hate).
Not a lot of sexy times, but what we got was HOT!
I really enjoyed this and other than the little bit of angst, this was a good read.
December 6, 2016
Entre las dos y las tres, y las tres sería por ser entretenido y nada más.
Plot: nada nuevo. Situaciones poco desarrolladas, previsibles, superficiales. Meh
Personajes: pffff, uno tiene momentos en los que hay que tener mucha paciencia para aguantarle. El otro es un santo varón aburrido y mñe. Meh
Una sola frase en español porque uno de los personajes es puertorriqueño (cualquiera lo diría) y hay dos faltas de ortografía. MEH!!!!!!!!!
No lo vais a odiar, pero solo lo recomendaría para un rato perdido que tengáis por ahí y no busquéis algo que os absorba mucho.
Resumen: MEH
Plot: nada nuevo. Situaciones poco desarrolladas, previsibles, superficiales. Meh
Personajes: pffff, uno tiene momentos en los que hay que tener mucha paciencia para aguantarle. El otro es un santo varón aburrido y mñe. Meh
Una sola frase en español porque uno de los personajes es puertorriqueño (cualquiera lo diría) y hay dos faltas de ortografía. MEH!!!!!!!!!
No lo vais a odiar, pero solo lo recomendaría para un rato perdido que tengáis por ahí y no busquéis algo que os absorba mucho.
Resumen: MEH
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November 6, 2016I'm DNFing this one for now. I just can't get into it. The authors writing style is grating on my nerves with this one. She's a teller. We are told things not shown and I can't really feel the connection between the MC's and I can't stand Diego. At all. I usually like her books so I may try again later.
April 4, 2018
WTF? He kissed me. A guy kissed me! Then...I kissed him back. *song plays in the background* "I kissed a girl guy and I liked it..."
Diego, big ol' manhoe extraordinaire, doesn't care about much in life. Getting through one day at a time and doing just enough to get by works for him. So, when the easy-going, positive guy transfers into his school and football team he's not paying a lot of attention. That is until coach tries to set the new guy up as an example and leader for the team.
Garrett transfered from a D1 team to JuCo to spend more time at home where his family needs him. He's looking forward to more free time and less stress. He's not at all happy when he finds out the new coach wants him to lead the team to a winning season. Even worse, the coach proceeds to put him on a pedestal in front of the entire team. But Garrett is the perpetual optimist and he's going to do his best at any task in front of him.
Diego is going to do his very best to sabotage Garrett's happy bubble.
----------------
These two guys are fun and cute and hot and sweet. I really enjoy reading about Hendrick's boys. They have such big...hearts. *blink blink* Yeah, I said that right. *whew*
This is a spinoff series from the Eastshore Tigers which is a great M/M Sports Romance series. Following in its footsteps, this new series focuses on a team in the Junior College football league. We're introduced to a whole new set of characters with only a few short appearances from Trent, previously with the Eastshore Tigers. I'm very much looking forward to reading more of these easy, feel-good, new adult romances.
***3.5 stars***
Diego, big ol' manhoe extraordinaire, doesn't care about much in life. Getting through one day at a time and doing just enough to get by works for him. So, when the easy-going, positive guy transfers into his school and football team he's not paying a lot of attention. That is until coach tries to set the new guy up as an example and leader for the team.
Garrett transfered from a D1 team to JuCo to spend more time at home where his family needs him. He's looking forward to more free time and less stress. He's not at all happy when he finds out the new coach wants him to lead the team to a winning season. Even worse, the coach proceeds to put him on a pedestal in front of the entire team. But Garrett is the perpetual optimist and he's going to do his best at any task in front of him.
Diego is going to do his very best to sabotage Garrett's happy bubble.
----------------
These two guys are fun and cute and hot and sweet. I really enjoy reading about Hendrick's boys. They have such big...hearts. *blink blink* Yeah, I said that right. *whew*
This is a spinoff series from the Eastshore Tigers which is a great M/M Sports Romance series. Following in its footsteps, this new series focuses on a team in the Junior College football league. We're introduced to a whole new set of characters with only a few short appearances from Trent, previously with the Eastshore Tigers. I'm very much looking forward to reading more of these easy, feel-good, new adult romances.
***3.5 stars***
November 4, 2016
Diego Ruiz is the cornerback for the Mavericks. He definitely gets attachment issues, as in he's bad in forming one. He often undermines his own achievement; for example, Diego is a great player, but never really commits to the game or to the team. Meanwhile, Garrett Barnes is the new QB, and he plans to do his best to make Mavericks better. Garrett is a "half-glass-full" kind of guy, he doesn't scare easily even if at first his team members hates his guts.
...
I enjoyed Alison Hendricks' previous series, the Eastshore Tigers, so I was happy when she released a new one, a somewhat spin-off of it. At the end of False Start, Luke Trent were heading to Junior College, and the Mavericks was the team he joined in. We got a glimpse of Trent here and there. Having said that, Roughing the Passer completely offers bunch of new characters; one don't need to read the Eastshore Tigers series to keep up with this one.
I loved both Diego and Garrett so much. Sure Diego has issues, but his backstory is convincing enough I ended up rooting for him so badly. Besides, I couldn't really dislike a guy who can befriends a teenage girl, and buys her tampon, could I? *lol*.
I also loved Garrett's tenacity, both with Diego and his own family. Garrett has been taking care of his father and his younger sister ever since a tragedy happens to them. By the way, Garrett's family are definitely lovely people, and I loved both his sister and his father!
Yes, I loved these boys! They have delicious chemistry, and I thought their relationship progress delightful. Especially watching Diego finally opens up to his feelings towards Garrett :).
It helped that I thought this book had low angst had low drama (oh, except near the end). I also appreciated the fact that even if Garrett is a virgin when it comes to guys, there wasn't much of draining emotional struggle with one's finding out his sexuality and family acceptance.
Sometimes I just need a book like that; a book with characters that takes their attraction towards the same gender in stride, even if they never feel that way before. Besides, it's not like Garrett doesn't do anything about it. He is all about finding information on Reddit!! *laugh*
Bottom line this book is exactly the kind of light and easy read I need right now. Right book + right time = happy Ami.
...
I enjoyed Alison Hendricks' previous series, the Eastshore Tigers, so I was happy when she released a new one, a somewhat spin-off of it. At the end of False Start, Luke Trent were heading to Junior College, and the Mavericks was the team he joined in. We got a glimpse of Trent here and there. Having said that, Roughing the Passer completely offers bunch of new characters; one don't need to read the Eastshore Tigers series to keep up with this one.
I loved both Diego and Garrett so much. Sure Diego has issues, but his backstory is convincing enough I ended up rooting for him so badly. Besides, I couldn't really dislike a guy who can befriends a teenage girl, and buys her tampon, could I? *lol*.
I also loved Garrett's tenacity, both with Diego and his own family. Garrett has been taking care of his father and his younger sister ever since a tragedy happens to them. By the way, Garrett's family are definitely lovely people, and I loved both his sister and his father!
Yes, I loved these boys! They have delicious chemistry, and I thought their relationship progress delightful. Especially watching Diego finally opens up to his feelings towards Garrett :).
It helped that I thought this book had low angst had low drama (oh, except near the end). I also appreciated the fact that even if Garrett is a virgin when it comes to guys, there wasn't much of draining emotional struggle with one's finding out his sexuality and family acceptance.
Sometimes I just need a book like that; a book with characters that takes their attraction towards the same gender in stride, even if they never feel that way before. Besides, it's not like Garrett doesn't do anything about it. He is all about finding information on Reddit!! *laugh*
Bottom line this book is exactly the kind of light and easy read I need right now. Right book + right time = happy Ami.
November 14, 2016
Actually I really liked the main characters and their love story <3 slow burn and very believable!! 3.5*
But this book has a lot secondary plot about their family background and omg...
Yes, maybe too much for me and a little messy in some scenes!
Also the football matches parts I couldn't understand anything :( ~ I have no idea about this sport and the author use a lot of specific or shortcut words.
But this book has a lot secondary plot about their family background and omg...
Yes, maybe too much for me and a little messy in some scenes!
Also the football matches parts I couldn't understand anything :( ~ I have no idea about this sport and the author use a lot of specific or shortcut words.
January 20, 2020
Stinking cute. It was overly dramatic, but in a very cheesy cute way. I like how Garrett has “always” been there for Diego but they’ve known each other a few months, at least a football season. And I liked that it was a slow burn romance.
January 25, 2017
Ehhh, it was ok. A little bit more than a mehhh but not by much.
Diego was kind of an asshole. At times, I felt Garrett was too good for him.
Lots of football in this one and little action in the bedroom.
Could have been better.
Diego was kind of an asshole. At times, I felt Garrett was too good for him.
Lots of football in this one and little action in the bedroom.
Could have been better.
October 30, 2016
This author is growing on me. First of all be warned this book is low on steam, but I still enjoyed it a lot. Diego is a little bitch. He's has it rough and his life has been filled with disappointment. He trusts everyone to fail him and that everything good will end.
Garrett's life has been quite the shit show as well but unlike Diego he's an optimist and willing to fight as hard as he possible can to make things happen. He's plagued by responsibilities he shouldn't have yet manages to juggle it all. Recruited to a losing team to help them turn things around, Garrett comes in with hope and plans but in order to get everyone to see where he's coming from he has to convince the team ringleader and resident grump Diego that some things are worth fighting for.
Diego is openly gay and Garrett doesn't know what he is, but what starts out as a means to rile each other up turns into to an attraction that takes both men by surprise. They are surprisingly good for each other Diego makes Garrett laugh and relax and Garrett makes Diego see some people are trustworthy and dependable. There are some obstacles here but it's not overly angsty. Overall it's a very sweet story with low steam and basically chronicles the changes people can make when they meet the right person.
Garrett's life has been quite the shit show as well but unlike Diego he's an optimist and willing to fight as hard as he possible can to make things happen. He's plagued by responsibilities he shouldn't have yet manages to juggle it all. Recruited to a losing team to help them turn things around, Garrett comes in with hope and plans but in order to get everyone to see where he's coming from he has to convince the team ringleader and resident grump Diego that some things are worth fighting for.
Diego is openly gay and Garrett doesn't know what he is, but what starts out as a means to rile each other up turns into to an attraction that takes both men by surprise. They are surprisingly good for each other Diego makes Garrett laugh and relax and Garrett makes Diego see some people are trustworthy and dependable. There are some obstacles here but it's not overly angsty. Overall it's a very sweet story with low steam and basically chronicles the changes people can make when they meet the right person.
July 1, 2018
I love Hendricks' sports series and this one's no exception
3.5*
This is a spin off from the Eastshore Tigers series focusing on a new set of guys with the loose connection of Luke Trent from Trick Play holding it together.
Hendricks is supremely talented at creating believable young men just finding their way into adult life and this book is just as good at that. Both Diego and Garrett are well defined characters with real hang ups and fears.
This is nicely paced with a lower level of steam than some of the others but it has a really sweet epilogue and a smoking hot cover.
3.5*
This is a spin off from the Eastshore Tigers series focusing on a new set of guys with the loose connection of Luke Trent from Trick Play holding it together.
Hendricks is supremely talented at creating believable young men just finding their way into adult life and this book is just as good at that. Both Diego and Garrett are well defined characters with real hang ups and fears.
This is nicely paced with a lower level of steam than some of the others but it has a really sweet epilogue and a smoking hot cover.
November 5, 2016
“Roughing the Passer” by Alison Hendricks is the start of a new series, which is a spin-off of the “Eastshore Tigers” series. I have always enjoyed reading this writer and this time around she has given us another sport romance which had his ups and downs but with a great and satisfying HEA at the end.
Diego plays football on scholarship. Life has always let him down big time and he is positive that playing football and getting a decent education is not going to change a lot for him either. He is a talented player with a huge potential but he never gives his full effort. He goes through the motions and it does not help when his coach is a verbally abusive good for nothing.
Garrett Barnes is the new starting QB in Diego’s team. He is the golden boy who according to their coach will lead the team to victory. Garrett does not want to be treated as a hero but he do wants to give his all and play ball. He is optimistic and is positive that they can win with lots of practice and training.
Garrett’s efforts and attitude towards making a difference riles Diego to no end. Diego has a plan to get under the golden boy’s skin. He just have to flirt with the straight QB, accidentally show some skin and make him uncomfortable enough to lose his cool. Diego’s plan backfires royally when his supposed torment results in a hot as hell kissing session that leaves his head reeling. The golden boy is not so straight after all but can Diego hope for something more romantically for the first time in his life or will he get let down once again and left behind???? Read to find out!!!
I loved the entire sports part of the story. It’s a sport romance and the author has not skimped on the “on-field action” of the team at all. Their growth from a miserable team to a winning team was great and inspiring to watch. I loved how Garrett turns the team around with the help of Diego and get them the win they so deserved.
The story was angsty and emotional both with Diego’s baggages and Garrett’s stressful home life. Diego has been passed around in enough foster homes and let down by someone who he has trusted to love him so he is always ready to jump to the conclusion that Garrett will leave him too. He knows Garrett is the most dependable and solid person who will never let him down but he does not trust it to be true. Thus leading to angst which creates a very small gap between the couple but Diego realizes his mistakes quickly and able to make up for it in the best way he could.
Garrett is a very responsible human being who has single handedly kept his family together after a tragic accident that changes his life completely. He loves Diego and is always there for him. He always sees the best of every situation and his overall positive and trustworthy nature makes Diego fall for him hard.
I had a few issues with the overall story. First being, Garrett’s acknowledgement of his sexuality. Garrett is not gay or pretending to be straight. The first guy he has ever been attracted to is Diego so I wanted to see some angst in that department. It is a whole lotta confusing when someone suddenly finds out that they are not so straight after all but Garrett does not feel any confusion at all. I found that a little unbelievable.
Second, the lack of heat or chemistry between the MCs. There were few scenes but mostly everything was off the page. Ms. Hendricks’s previous characters have always had the right amount of heat to successfully show off a gfy relationship but it was completely missing here. Some well placed sexy scenes would have been really great in my opinion.
I have always enjoyed Ms. Hendricks’s books and hopefully this is the start of another winning series like the “Eastshore Tigers”. Recommended to all Football lovers out there!!!
Diego plays football on scholarship. Life has always let him down big time and he is positive that playing football and getting a decent education is not going to change a lot for him either. He is a talented player with a huge potential but he never gives his full effort. He goes through the motions and it does not help when his coach is a verbally abusive good for nothing.
Garrett Barnes is the new starting QB in Diego’s team. He is the golden boy who according to their coach will lead the team to victory. Garrett does not want to be treated as a hero but he do wants to give his all and play ball. He is optimistic and is positive that they can win with lots of practice and training.
Garrett’s efforts and attitude towards making a difference riles Diego to no end. Diego has a plan to get under the golden boy’s skin. He just have to flirt with the straight QB, accidentally show some skin and make him uncomfortable enough to lose his cool. Diego’s plan backfires royally when his supposed torment results in a hot as hell kissing session that leaves his head reeling. The golden boy is not so straight after all but can Diego hope for something more romantically for the first time in his life or will he get let down once again and left behind???? Read to find out!!!
I loved the entire sports part of the story. It’s a sport romance and the author has not skimped on the “on-field action” of the team at all. Their growth from a miserable team to a winning team was great and inspiring to watch. I loved how Garrett turns the team around with the help of Diego and get them the win they so deserved.
The story was angsty and emotional both with Diego’s baggages and Garrett’s stressful home life. Diego has been passed around in enough foster homes and let down by someone who he has trusted to love him so he is always ready to jump to the conclusion that Garrett will leave him too. He knows Garrett is the most dependable and solid person who will never let him down but he does not trust it to be true. Thus leading to angst which creates a very small gap between the couple but Diego realizes his mistakes quickly and able to make up for it in the best way he could.
Garrett is a very responsible human being who has single handedly kept his family together after a tragic accident that changes his life completely. He loves Diego and is always there for him. He always sees the best of every situation and his overall positive and trustworthy nature makes Diego fall for him hard.
I had a few issues with the overall story. First being, Garrett’s acknowledgement of his sexuality. Garrett is not gay or pretending to be straight. The first guy he has ever been attracted to is Diego so I wanted to see some angst in that department. It is a whole lotta confusing when someone suddenly finds out that they are not so straight after all but Garrett does not feel any confusion at all. I found that a little unbelievable.
Second, the lack of heat or chemistry between the MCs. There were few scenes but mostly everything was off the page. Ms. Hendricks’s previous characters have always had the right amount of heat to successfully show off a gfy relationship but it was completely missing here. Some well placed sexy scenes would have been really great in my opinion.
I have always enjoyed Ms. Hendricks’s books and hopefully this is the start of another winning series like the “Eastshore Tigers”. Recommended to all Football lovers out there!!!
October 30, 2016
3.5 stars- I'm at lost here. I swear the moment i saw this book i did read it right away because i love this author and i love sports romance.
Eastshore Tigers series is one of my favorite sports romance and i gave 5 stars on those three books and I've re-read the book one thrice already.
So i read this book with so much excitement but then it didn't gave me the joy and love that i felt from the Eastshore series.
I'm looking for more MC's interaction, more conversation and a chemistry buildup. I never felt any emotions towards the MC's. I never shed tears, i never felt happy and i didn't fall in love.
Still one book won't stop me to read more from this author.
Eastshore Tigers series is one of my favorite sports romance and i gave 5 stars on those three books and I've re-read the book one thrice already.
So i read this book with so much excitement but then it didn't gave me the joy and love that i felt from the Eastshore series.
I'm looking for more MC's interaction, more conversation and a chemistry buildup. I never felt any emotions towards the MC's. I never shed tears, i never felt happy and i didn't fall in love.
Still one book won't stop me to read more from this author.
March 22, 2019
Loved this!
This was a great story. Football, romance, and hot guys, what else do you want? I really liked both characters a lot. Diego had a hard childhood, bouncing around in foster homes and feeling like no one wants him. Garrett had a lot on his shoulders, but stayed optimistic and is a good leader. I loved the two of them together, they fit so well and both helped each other feel more confident and be happier. Very cute story!
This was a great story. Football, romance, and hot guys, what else do you want? I really liked both characters a lot. Diego had a hard childhood, bouncing around in foster homes and feeling like no one wants him. Garrett had a lot on his shoulders, but stayed optimistic and is a good leader. I loved the two of them together, they fit so well and both helped each other feel more confident and be happier. Very cute story!
November 1, 2016
ARC received for an honest review.... 3.5* This is a college sports romance. Garrett is starting junior college after going to a D1 school in Florida. He couldn't continue due to family obligations. Diego is an orphan with a chip on his shoulder for how hard life has treated him and he floats thru life with hookups from Grindr as his outlet. Garrett is optimistic where Diego is jaded. They find an attraction and explore it. I enjoyed the story but unfortunately the author briefly told us that Garrett and Diego spent time together, eating, studying, and hanging out, but never let the reader experience it. The story centered mostly on the football practices and games and not much else. She described the football coach as a jerk but had no plot change or character development for anyone around it. Lots of opportunities in this book to develop and deepen the characters and the story but the author did not take them. Enjoyable read but details will not stay with me.
Thank you Ms. Hendricks for generously sending me your book to review.
Thank you Ms. Hendricks for generously sending me your book to review.
October 26, 2016
4.2 Stars
Okay, yeah this is what I expected the final Eastshore Tigers book to be. So much of an improvement over that last installment that it's restored my faith in her ability to tell a tale heavy on the football as well as on the romantic side. I also liked Diego's character; just a bit broken is so much more interesting, ya know?
Okay, yeah this is what I expected the final Eastshore Tigers book to be. So much of an improvement over that last installment that it's restored my faith in her ability to tell a tale heavy on the football as well as on the romantic side. I also liked Diego's character; just a bit broken is so much more interesting, ya know?
January 30, 2017
Pretty fun read. Relatively low-angst despite some family drama. There was quite a lot packed into this - almost too many issues so that we didn't really have a huge amount of depth to any of it. However, I still really liked the characters and their relationship together.
September 24, 2017
3-3.5 Stars~~
Diego and Garrett are both interesting enough characters, with different backgrounds and experiences dealing with loss at a young age. They are opposites, Diego is negative, understandably so, and Garrett is positive. They complement each other nicely, so it's not that I didn't love these guys or appreciate their personal growth throughout the story. But the time skips made the relationship development have less of an impact.
Diego dislikes Garrett at first, but a surprise boner on the field has Diego thinking hooking up would be fun. Garrett realizes he is Bi and has no intentions of hiding his growing attraction to Diego, but he isn't going to flaunt it either. Casual and naughty turns super serious, almost out of nowhere in my opinion. Suddenly they are a couple, and both are thinking they are falling.
The story is mostly football, hooking up, and Diego spending some time with Garrett's family. I just thought something was missing, it's sweet, but I think there should have been more scenes showing the two bonding. I love this author, so much football and I still enjoy each story, this one just wasn't my favorite.
Diego and Garrett are both interesting enough characters, with different backgrounds and experiences dealing with loss at a young age. They are opposites, Diego is negative, understandably so, and Garrett is positive. They complement each other nicely, so it's not that I didn't love these guys or appreciate their personal growth throughout the story. But the time skips made the relationship development have less of an impact.
Diego dislikes Garrett at first, but a surprise boner on the field has Diego thinking hooking up would be fun. Garrett realizes he is Bi and has no intentions of hiding his growing attraction to Diego, but he isn't going to flaunt it either. Casual and naughty turns super serious, almost out of nowhere in my opinion. Suddenly they are a couple, and both are thinking they are falling.
The story is mostly football, hooking up, and Diego spending some time with Garrett's family. I just thought something was missing, it's sweet, but I think there should have been more scenes showing the two bonding. I love this author, so much football and I still enjoy each story, this one just wasn't my favorite.
August 31, 2017
Alison Hendricks' books always leave me with a smile on my face. This one wasn't any different . :)
I loved both Diego's endearing prickliness and Garrett's optimism. I loved them together and rooted for them till the end.
The writing was good as usual, side-characters interesting and all in all a great solid read.
I need more books Alison!! Give them to meeee!!
I loved both Diego's endearing prickliness and Garrett's optimism. I loved them together and rooted for them till the end.
The writing was good as usual, side-characters interesting and all in all a great solid read.
I need more books Alison!! Give them to meeee!!
November 6, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
Let me rave a little about this book because oh lord, did I adore it! Somehow, every single one of the characters were easy to relate to and so damn lovable! Diego, I wanted to hug and care for him like he was my own, until I felt myself biting my lip when he was a hot muscly ball of trouble. He was such a complex character and I couldn't get enough. I always read the gay for you stories where the 'straight' one acts like a total close-minded ass and I LOVED that he was so accepting but timid of the situation. I love a book that has me wanting to fan myself one minute and laughing the next, what more could anyone ask for? Also, after I read this I realized that it reminded me so much of Jude and Zero from Hit the Floor, seriously watch the show if you even remotely liked this book! (They are the babies in the gif below.) Anyway, this story was amazing and I rarely do this, but I will totally be searching up other books by this author and reading them as soon as possible. I was truly sad when this book ended.
- I've never been shy about my sexuality. It's gotten me bullied, revenge-fucked, and punched in the stomach, but I'm not going to hide who I am. And I'm not going to stop making mucho dudebros feel uncomfortable because they don't like it when their dicks perk up at my attention.
- My fucking heart is trying to sabotage me.
- I'm such a slut for muscles.
- But like an addict, I just can't resist playing with fire.
- He's not the first guy to look at me that way. But he's the first I've really wanted to look at me that way.
- "If I suck at this, you better tell me," he says, and I can feel his breath on my sensitive skin.
"Sucking is kinda the point," I manage.
- "You made me believe in something again, Garrett. You made me feel like I could do more. Be more. You made me want to try, even when everything else was telling me I shouldn't."Side Note :
Let me rave a little about this book because oh lord, did I adore it! Somehow, every single one of the characters were easy to relate to and so damn lovable! Diego, I wanted to hug and care for him like he was my own, until I felt myself biting my lip when he was a hot muscly ball of trouble. He was such a complex character and I couldn't get enough. I always read the gay for you stories where the 'straight' one acts like a total close-minded ass and I LOVED that he was so accepting but timid of the situation. I love a book that has me wanting to fan myself one minute and laughing the next, what more could anyone ask for? Also, after I read this I realized that it reminded me so much of Jude and Zero from Hit the Floor, seriously watch the show if you even remotely liked this book! (They are the babies in the gif below.) Anyway, this story was amazing and I rarely do this, but I will totally be searching up other books by this author and reading them as soon as possible. I was truly sad when this book ended.
November 16, 2016
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
Again a good Alison Hendricks book, this time away from the Eastshore Tigers and now the ESC Mavericks. I really liked Diego and Garrett.
The beginning was a bit bumpy and Diego could be a bit pain in the ass. xD But I really started to like him after a while. :3
It started slow, Diego isn't at the beginning a charming guy, he is passive aggressive, often tries to get in Garrett's way. The tension is slow rising between the both guys, risind to the top and fully revealed later. :3
I liked Garrett's mature behaviour in contrast to Diego. On the other hand we soon get the information that Diego is only trying to be tough and aloof because of his past. It is great that we get the information my only complain is the way we get it: sometimes it is thrown in, a bit lazy and without the connection I needed - or maybe I only missed it. Despite the fact that a few information were a bit bumpy introduced it is a good insight of the character. Diego get his dynamics and is more dimensial.
As I said the tension between is slowly rising and both learn new things about each other - as well as the reader. Diego for example isn't the aggressive, rumbling guy with the snark side comments and with bad jokes.
Why I only give 4.5 out of 5 stars? Because the things about the character were a bit randomly smashed into, the connection had to be a slight bit better. Also I was involved but I think it could be confusing to only "read" about several actions. But still I was so hooked I give the book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The small reappearance of Luke from the 3rd Eastshore Tigers book - Trick Play - was great, it was a mini connection. I really like this.
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
Again a good Alison Hendricks book, this time away from the Eastshore Tigers and now the ESC Mavericks. I really liked Diego and Garrett.
The beginning was a bit bumpy and Diego could be a bit pain in the ass. xD But I really started to like him after a while. :3
It started slow, Diego isn't at the beginning a charming guy, he is passive aggressive, often tries to get in Garrett's way. The tension is slow rising between the both guys, risind to the top and fully revealed later. :3
I liked Garrett's mature behaviour in contrast to Diego. On the other hand we soon get the information that Diego is only trying to be tough and aloof because of his past. It is great that we get the information my only complain is the way we get it: sometimes it is thrown in, a bit lazy and without the connection I needed - or maybe I only missed it. Despite the fact that a few information were a bit bumpy introduced it is a good insight of the character. Diego get his dynamics and is more dimensial.
As I said the tension between is slowly rising and both learn new things about each other - as well as the reader. Diego for example isn't the aggressive, rumbling guy with the snark side comments and with bad jokes.
Why I only give 4.5 out of 5 stars? Because the things about the character were a bit randomly smashed into, the connection had to be a slight bit better. Also I was involved but I think it could be confusing to only "read" about several actions. But still I was so hooked I give the book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The small reappearance of Luke from the 3rd Eastshore Tigers book - Trick Play - was great, it was a mini connection. I really like this.
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
November 1, 2016
*Arc provided by author*
This is the beginning of a new series, a spin off from the Eastshore Tigers.
The MCs are Diego, an out gay player, and Garrett, who is just discovering his bisexuality. They are teammates at Trent's (Trick Play) new school. They don't start off on the right foot, because the coach treats Garett as a Golden Boy, who will save the team, and Diego resents him for it.
Their whole relationship starts with a kiss that Diego gave Garrett just to rile him up. They start hooking up, which leads to dating, then more. I like that Garrett doesn't make a big deal about his sudden interest in guys. Though he's been so focused on taking care of his little sister since his mom left, that he hasn't had time to focus on sex.
I liked this story, but it was lacking in the sex, there was only one scene, though we're told they hook up regularly. There was a few minor typos as well, but they didn't distract from the main story.
This is the beginning of a new series, a spin off from the Eastshore Tigers.
The MCs are Diego, an out gay player, and Garrett, who is just discovering his bisexuality. They are teammates at Trent's (Trick Play) new school. They don't start off on the right foot, because the coach treats Garett as a Golden Boy, who will save the team, and Diego resents him for it.
Their whole relationship starts with a kiss that Diego gave Garrett just to rile him up. They start hooking up, which leads to dating, then more. I like that Garrett doesn't make a big deal about his sudden interest in guys. Though he's been so focused on taking care of his little sister since his mom left, that he hasn't had time to focus on sex.
I liked this story, but it was lacking in the sex, there was only one scene, though we're told they hook up regularly. There was a few minor typos as well, but they didn't distract from the main story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2019
this was a nice read and gave me just what I wanted. I loved how it developed ... except for the end, or better said one of the main twists in the last quarter.
Be careful, now I start to ramble with a few spoilers in there
because Garrett is there portraied as the Golden Boy ... like in the whole book, but in my opinion he is as guilty as Diego and I would have thought Diego should have gotten an apology as well (especially as GArrett didn't even think about him till very late and then suddenly he needed him ... this was a bit wrong from my POV because it seemed a bit like Diego is just an afterthought for Garret but ok)
Be careful, now I start to ramble with a few spoilers in there
because Garrett is there portraied as the Golden Boy ... like in the whole book, but in my opinion he is as guilty as Diego and I would have thought Diego should have gotten an apology as well (especially as GArrett didn't even think about him till very late and then suddenly he needed him ... this was a bit wrong from my POV because it seemed a bit like Diego is just an afterthought for Garret but ok)
January 8, 2017
Another good one from Alison Hendricks!
Three of the three Alison Hendricks books I've completed have been 5-star reads, including this one.
This book is low on steam, but nonetheless a compelling stand-alone story.
Hendricks has a gift for writing compelling and likable MCs and the pair here are more of the same.
There is a lot of unexplained NFL-style football terminology in the book but explains this game is not the point of her books and though I'm not a fan of the NFL, I still enjoy her books.
Three of the three Alison Hendricks books I've completed have been 5-star reads, including this one.
This book is low on steam, but nonetheless a compelling stand-alone story.
Hendricks has a gift for writing compelling and likable MCs and the pair here are more of the same.
There is a lot of unexplained NFL-style football terminology in the book but explains this game is not the point of her books and though I'm not a fan of the NFL, I still enjoy her books.
November 6, 2016
True rating: 1.5 stars!! Lots of telling. Lots and LOTS of telling. Where's the showing? SHOW me where!!
I KUed this and I am glad I did. I honestly have NO idea why I keep reading the books in this series :-/ ... maybe it's because I'm holding out for one of Alison's books being even remotely as good as her first [Strong Side]. So far, I am disappointed. I might just call it quits and move on. Bummer.
I KUed this and I am glad I did. I honestly have NO idea why I keep reading the books in this series :-/ ... maybe it's because I'm holding out for one of Alison's books being even remotely as good as her first [Strong Side]. So far, I am disappointed. I might just call it quits and move on. Bummer.
November 11, 2016
2.5 stars
I was looking forward to reading this as I like this authors style and I enjoyed the Eastshore Tigers books, but this offering was really disappointing.
There's a whole lot of telling and precious little showing.
I liked both characters and I really felt for Diego but there's no development and apart from football practice and games, literally nothing happens.
Unfortunately it was boring.
I was looking forward to reading this as I like this authors style and I enjoyed the Eastshore Tigers books, but this offering was really disappointing.
There's a whole lot of telling and precious little showing.
I liked both characters and I really felt for Diego but there's no development and apart from football practice and games, literally nothing happens.
Unfortunately it was boring.
September 10, 2017
After coming to terms with the fact that I have to add "sports" to the themes I enjoy in m/m, I decided to check out Alison Hendricks' football books. Now, I knew literally next to nothing about football going in, but that never stopped me before or lessened my enjoyment.
Diego is part of a football team that isn't really going anywhere, and Diego himself has given up on anything even resembling big dreams. When his coach brings in Garrett to "save" the team, Diego decides to show him that Garrett's optimism and hard work will get him nowhere, but of course that doesn't turn out the way he plans.
I really loved the romance, including (or, to be honest, especially) the pull on my heartstrings towards the end, and both the main and the side characters were great. And I also liked that they were definitely playing football here - and even as a complete newbie I was able to picture and understand what was going on. In my experience, more people can write an engaging romance than a good sports story, so kudos to Alison Hendricks for that.
What I didn't like was that considering how she built it up, the conflict between Garrett and the team and the way the coach treats him kind of fizzles out - that could have been a bit more interesting, I think. Also, and yes, I know it's a matter of personal taste, but I simply don't like stories told from first person point of view. In my experience as a reader, it's difficult to pull it off, and very few authors make it work and I almost never enjoy it as much as I would the same story told from the third person perspective.
But overall this was a very enjoyable novel and I recommend it to everyone who likes sports in their m/m romances.
Diego is part of a football team that isn't really going anywhere, and Diego himself has given up on anything even resembling big dreams. When his coach brings in Garrett to "save" the team, Diego decides to show him that Garrett's optimism and hard work will get him nowhere, but of course that doesn't turn out the way he plans.
I really loved the romance, including (or, to be honest, especially) the pull on my heartstrings towards the end, and both the main and the side characters were great. And I also liked that they were definitely playing football here - and even as a complete newbie I was able to picture and understand what was going on. In my experience, more people can write an engaging romance than a good sports story, so kudos to Alison Hendricks for that.
What I didn't like was that considering how she built it up, the conflict between Garrett and the team and the way the coach treats him kind of fizzles out - that could have been a bit more interesting, I think. Also, and yes, I know it's a matter of personal taste, but I simply don't like stories told from first person point of view. In my experience as a reader, it's difficult to pull it off, and very few authors make it work and I almost never enjoy it as much as I would the same story told from the third person perspective.
But overall this was a very enjoyable novel and I recommend it to everyone who likes sports in their m/m romances.
November 2, 2016
(Originally reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews.)
I enjoyed this author’s first series and when I saw this spinoff notice on Facebook, I instantly bounced over to Amazon and hit one-click. Of course, I have Kindle Unlimited and it was free so it made it an even easier decision! But seriously, I would have purchased it otherwise, because her books are a fun read every time.
In Roughing the Passer, Ms. Hendricks has moved from the scene of her previous series to another school, this time the story is set at Eustice State College, a small Junior College, and the heroes are an unlikely pair.
Garrett Barnes had to leave his place at Florida State and his position on the Division 1 football team to help with his Dad, who is suffering from a degenerative spine disease. Back in his small central Florida home town, he is going to finish up school at the local Junior College and hopefully play football. He doesn’t expect that the coach will thrust him into the spotlight the very first day…winning him zero friends. The team is pretty bad and the coach is worse. What has Garrett gotten himself into?
Diego Ruiz is a defensive cornerback and a pretty big guy. He also has a pretty big attitude. Raised in the Florida Foster Care System, Diego has never had it very good. Shuffled from one home to another, until he was almost adopted and then it fell apart, he has learned to never trust that anything is going to work out. Life will always kick him in the balls at some point. Diego is gay and out and proud, but sticks to quick hookups on Grindr rather that investing time and energy into any one guy.
When Diego grabs Garrett and kisses him to rattle him, he never expects to be kissed back!
I enjoyed this feel good, happily ever after type romance. I needed this type story today, and I’m glad this one was available. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys sports related… coming out…first time…type stories.
I enjoyed this author’s first series and when I saw this spinoff notice on Facebook, I instantly bounced over to Amazon and hit one-click. Of course, I have Kindle Unlimited and it was free so it made it an even easier decision! But seriously, I would have purchased it otherwise, because her books are a fun read every time.
In Roughing the Passer, Ms. Hendricks has moved from the scene of her previous series to another school, this time the story is set at Eustice State College, a small Junior College, and the heroes are an unlikely pair.
Garrett Barnes had to leave his place at Florida State and his position on the Division 1 football team to help with his Dad, who is suffering from a degenerative spine disease. Back in his small central Florida home town, he is going to finish up school at the local Junior College and hopefully play football. He doesn’t expect that the coach will thrust him into the spotlight the very first day…winning him zero friends. The team is pretty bad and the coach is worse. What has Garrett gotten himself into?
Diego Ruiz is a defensive cornerback and a pretty big guy. He also has a pretty big attitude. Raised in the Florida Foster Care System, Diego has never had it very good. Shuffled from one home to another, until he was almost adopted and then it fell apart, he has learned to never trust that anything is going to work out. Life will always kick him in the balls at some point. Diego is gay and out and proud, but sticks to quick hookups on Grindr rather that investing time and energy into any one guy.
When Diego grabs Garrett and kisses him to rattle him, he never expects to be kissed back!
I enjoyed this feel good, happily ever after type romance. I needed this type story today, and I’m glad this one was available. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys sports related… coming out…first time…type stories.
October 28, 2016
This book was thoroughly enjoyable! I thought that the pairing of Diego, who needed someone to stand by him, and Garrett, who needed someone to support him, was excellent. This book focused much more on Diego than on Garrett, but I was glad to see that that Garrett got to grow as a character as well, and not just be a cheerleader for Diego. This choice of Diego being the central character was interesting, and it definitely provided a different POV from the typical first time gay story since it is Garrett who is discovering his sexuality and Diego who has always known, and is comfortable with being gay.
Diego was very easy to empathize with, even though my personal experiences are nothing like his, which I believe shows Alison's skill in writing complex, engaging characters. I loved that Diego (believably) didn't even know that he was nice until Garrett helped him see himself in a different light. I also loved that even though Diego had a lot of experience, he realized very early that his feelings for Garrett made their time together special and new for both of them.
I got a bit frustrated with Garrett in this book because he repeatedly refused to actually listen to what the people around him were saying, which made him seem selfish while being a martyr. He didn't come off as manipulative, just so focused on how overwhelmed that he felt, that he didn't clue into how his actions were negatively impacting the people around him. I think that it was this, more than Diego's insecurities, that caused the eventual conflict in the book and led to both Diego & Garrett realizing that each had to change, and let go of the past, in order to achieve their HEA.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Diego was very easy to empathize with, even though my personal experiences are nothing like his, which I believe shows Alison's skill in writing complex, engaging characters. I loved that Diego (believably) didn't even know that he was nice until Garrett helped him see himself in a different light. I also loved that even though Diego had a lot of experience, he realized very early that his feelings for Garrett made their time together special and new for both of them.
I got a bit frustrated with Garrett in this book because he repeatedly refused to actually listen to what the people around him were saying, which made him seem selfish while being a martyr. He didn't come off as manipulative, just so focused on how overwhelmed that he felt, that he didn't clue into how his actions were negatively impacting the people around him. I think that it was this, more than Diego's insecurities, that caused the eventual conflict in the book and led to both Diego & Garrett realizing that each had to change, and let go of the past, in order to achieve their HEA.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
October 28, 2016
I absolutely love this author...I might have actually squealed when I got this book. Two of my favorite things football and hotties playing football!! I love the new team of guys. Garrett and Diego are so so amaze. Garrett is always taking care of everyone and never had time to think about himself. Moving to a different school and meeting his new teammates defiantly changes that though. Diego just goes through the motions of life. He's not given up or anything but just puts in enough to make it by. Life has never been easy or even really that good for him seeming to let him down at every turn. So he's made somewhat of a promise to himself to never let anyone in enough to hurt or leave him...until the little game he plays with Garrett changes everything.
Garrett has always dated girls, when he has the actual time that is, but it's very few and far between. One night Diego goes a little far trying to push Garrett's buttons and kisses him and for Garrett it's a game changer seeing as he's never even thought of guys that way, and it leaves him reeling. When these two finally get tougher it's off the charts hot and absolutely perfect. They have many struggles along the way with Garrett learning how to be less of a parent and do more for himself. Diego has to learn he is worth love and deserves it as well which is very hard for him with all the loss in his life. Great great story absolutely can't wait for more!!
Garrett has always dated girls, when he has the actual time that is, but it's very few and far between. One night Diego goes a little far trying to push Garrett's buttons and kisses him and for Garrett it's a game changer seeing as he's never even thought of guys that way, and it leaves him reeling. When these two finally get tougher it's off the charts hot and absolutely perfect. They have many struggles along the way with Garrett learning how to be less of a parent and do more for himself. Diego has to learn he is worth love and deserves it as well which is very hard for him with all the loss in his life. Great great story absolutely can't wait for more!!
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