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Tackled by Love #1
Down By Contact
There’ve been two great loves in Zach Kendricks’ life. He lost one because of his commitment to the other.
After Griffin walked away because he refused to live his life in the closet, Zach put everything he had into achieving his football dreams. When he was drafted, he began to understand that Griffin had done the best thing for both of them by leaving. But that doesn’t mean he’s ever forgiven his first love.
Now in his second season with the Wilmington Breakers, Zach’s committed to keeping his head down so he can prove his rookie stats weren’t a fluke. He knows his resolve will be tested when he’s selected to participate in Outside the Pocket, a reality show which follows players through training camp. He’s almost convinced himself it won’t be a distraction when Griffin walks into the room. Distraction becomes an understatement when he’s informed he will be spending nearly every waking minute for the next six weeks with the only man he’s allowed to hurt him.
Will Zach’s love of the game be enough to keep him from being downed by contact again?
After Griffin walked away because he refused to live his life in the closet, Zach put everything he had into achieving his football dreams. When he was drafted, he began to understand that Griffin had done the best thing for both of them by leaving. But that doesn’t mean he’s ever forgiven his first love.
Now in his second season with the Wilmington Breakers, Zach’s committed to keeping his head down so he can prove his rookie stats weren’t a fluke. He knows his resolve will be tested when he’s selected to participate in Outside the Pocket, a reality show which follows players through training camp. He’s almost convinced himself it won’t be a distraction when Griffin walks into the room. Distraction becomes an understatement when he’s informed he will be spending nearly every waking minute for the next six weeks with the only man he’s allowed to hurt him.
Will Zach’s love of the game be enough to keep him from being downed by contact again?
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2017
176 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Sloan Johnson
26 books836 followersSloan Johnson is a big city girl trapped in a country girl’s body. While she longs for the hustle and bustle of New York City or Las Vegas, she hasn’t yet figured out how to sit on the deck with her morning coffee, watching the deer and wild turkeys in the fields while surrounded by concrete and glass.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
January 5, 2022
I always feel terrible giving a book a low rating. Especially if it’s a new author for me. To be perfectly honest I just don’t think Quinn Ward and I are a good fit. I liked the story, but I got bogged down by all the inner monologue. At one point Zach said he needed to stop rambling and just say what he felt. That pretty much summed up the book for me.
January 4, 2018
4.0 Stars
So, first off, I have to say that I'd have rated this even higher had there been, you know, actual football in the story. I'm a huge fan and was looking forward to a few plays, some practice, a bit of competition. But nope, not a bit of that here. In fact, I think setting the book in a fictional football league was simply a trope that was easy enough to build a coming out book around.
That said, it was still really good! If you noticed, I even took the time to update a few of my thoughts - something I haven't done much of in the past few months - because the story was entertaining and a little dramatic. But nothing too OTT...which threw me off. It had a little less drama than I'd rather have in this kind of book. I loved how the show, network and producers were basically spinning their wheels when the story didn't unfold the way they wanted it to; and, despite the underhanded plotting/blackmail their ratings plummeted, people on both sides of the "situation" railed against the scripting and as a result the show will probably not be renewed. WIN!
Most of all though? I adored how these guys tried to talk out their problems. No, not always successfully and it's even explored how sometimes Zach (the footballer) kind of expected things to revolve around what he wanted and how he wanted them. That he learned from the heart-to-heart conversations (with Griffin and Nate) and figured out he had to consider other people's feelings/desires/aspirations was kind of refreshing. Everything didn't just magically work out between the MCs when he came out; they still had to put effort into their relationship...even if it meant not being together all the time.
Gawd, even when they were getting the "talking points" wrong at least they were trying! Griffin didn't want to move in right away because he still felt insecure about Zach's intentions and commitment; he wasn't going to be a house-husband because having that singular identity would have been as limiting (to Griffin) as being kept a secret. Did that come out right when he told Zach "No"? Of course it didn't. Like in real life people need time to gather their thoughts and decide how best to communicate these feelings...which is pretty much what happened once cooler heads prevailed. Again, how refreshing! (And mature.)
I think it's easy to lose track of the MCs age as well; it's not explicitly stated but one year after graduation leads me to think that they're maybe 23-ish...and so not always knowing what you want, or knowing what you want but not knowing how to get it, or getting what you want but then being afraid of what it means to have it, or of having it and then being afraid of losing it - well, that's a lot of uncertainty. (It's a wonder how anyone has a relationship given those pressures!) Compound all that with the added stress of being in a notoriously homophobic sport? That's a lot to deal with...so when Zach sometimes seemed like he was flip-flopping on what he wanted from Griffin, well I'm inclined to let it slide.
And speaking of letting things slide: Without actual games or opponents it's hard to see how the rest of the league and players are taking Zach's revelation. I am stupidly happy about all the Michael Sam references in this book because I feel that boy's future was stolen from him with all the hype they piled on him. (Also how it's implied that without it he probably would have done just fine = all my love for Sloan.) So, it lacks that bit of added drama that I'm used to from similarly themed books...and it's a little like reading through rose-colored glasses. (The lack of animosity is how I would love the rest of the league - and world! - to respond, but that's not realistic.) Those tinted lenses also color the love-scenes as they are very...well, romantic. Not as rough & tumble, or raw and gritty, as I like when it comes to MM Romance. (Actually, how those scenes are portrayed make me feel a little like they've got the Moonlighting Soft Focus lens covering what I'm reading.)
Still, I did really like the book; looking forward to the next one, which I think is Nixon & Lincoln's tale...two grown, mature, older men tackling a new relationship (<--Did you see what I did there? Ha!) And I liked it enough to put the Homeruns series on the TBR shelf even though they're baseball themed...because I hate baseball. (Well, except the Braves.) (And watching big-booty catchers squat.)
So, first off, I have to say that I'd have rated this even higher had there been, you know, actual football in the story. I'm a huge fan and was looking forward to a few plays, some practice, a bit of competition. But nope, not a bit of that here. In fact, I think setting the book in a fictional football league was simply a trope that was easy enough to build a coming out book around.
That said, it was still really good! If you noticed, I even took the time to update a few of my thoughts - something I haven't done much of in the past few months - because the story was entertaining and a little dramatic. But nothing too OTT...which threw me off. It had a little less drama than I'd rather have in this kind of book. I loved how the show, network and producers were basically spinning their wheels when the story didn't unfold the way they wanted it to; and, despite the underhanded plotting/blackmail their ratings plummeted, people on both sides of the "situation" railed against the scripting and as a result the show will probably not be renewed. WIN!
Most of all though? I adored how these guys tried to talk out their problems. No, not always successfully and it's even explored how sometimes Zach (the footballer) kind of expected things to revolve around what he wanted and how he wanted them. That he learned from the heart-to-heart conversations (with Griffin and Nate) and figured out he had to consider other people's feelings/desires/aspirations was kind of refreshing. Everything didn't just magically work out between the MCs when he came out; they still had to put effort into their relationship...even if it meant not being together all the time.
Gawd, even when they were getting the "talking points" wrong at least they were trying! Griffin didn't want to move in right away because he still felt insecure about Zach's intentions and commitment; he wasn't going to be a house-husband because having that singular identity would have been as limiting (to Griffin) as being kept a secret. Did that come out right when he told Zach "No"? Of course it didn't. Like in real life people need time to gather their thoughts and decide how best to communicate these feelings...which is pretty much what happened once cooler heads prevailed. Again, how refreshing! (And mature.)
I think it's easy to lose track of the MCs age as well; it's not explicitly stated but one year after graduation leads me to think that they're maybe 23-ish...and so not always knowing what you want, or knowing what you want but not knowing how to get it, or getting what you want but then being afraid of what it means to have it, or of having it and then being afraid of losing it - well, that's a lot of uncertainty. (It's a wonder how anyone has a relationship given those pressures!) Compound all that with the added stress of being in a notoriously homophobic sport? That's a lot to deal with...so when Zach sometimes seemed like he was flip-flopping on what he wanted from Griffin, well I'm inclined to let it slide.
And speaking of letting things slide: Without actual games or opponents it's hard to see how the rest of the league and players are taking Zach's revelation. I am stupidly happy about all the Michael Sam references in this book because I feel that boy's future was stolen from him with all the hype they piled on him. (Also how it's implied that without it he probably would have done just fine = all my love for Sloan.) So, it lacks that bit of added drama that I'm used to from similarly themed books...and it's a little like reading through rose-colored glasses. (The lack of animosity is how I would love the rest of the league - and world! - to respond, but that's not realistic.) Those tinted lenses also color the love-scenes as they are very...well, romantic. Not as rough & tumble, or raw and gritty, as I like when it comes to MM Romance. (Actually, how those scenes are portrayed make me feel a little like they've got the Moonlighting Soft Focus lens covering what I'm reading.)
Still, I did really like the book; looking forward to the next one, which I think is Nixon & Lincoln's tale...two grown, mature, older men tackling a new relationship (<--Did you see what I did there? Ha!) And I liked it enough to put the Homeruns series on the TBR shelf even though they're baseball themed...because I hate baseball. (Well, except the Braves.) (And watching big-booty catchers squat.)
February 6, 2017
Great start to this new series
It's no secret that I love Sloan Johnson's baseball men so it comes as no surprise that i thoroughly enjoyed this one too, the first in an offshoot from her Homeruns novels.
In this we find out more about Zach, twin brother of Nate who was the subject of the last book. Like his brother, Zach is gay but unlike Nate, he's in the closet.
Because of this, the love of his college days, Griffin, left him because he didn't want to come between Zach and his professional football career.
This is a second chances romance, as Griffin ends up being one of the cameramen on a behind the scenes reality show which is following the team in the pre-season training.
There's the odd editing mistakes, as has been the case throughout this author's work, Zach is called Griffin in one sentence but thankfully it's an isolated error and not one which fully pulls you out of the story.
I'm now looking forward to finding out about Nixon and Lincoln's past and seeing if they're going to finally make it. Good start to this new series of books and the usual great cover I've come to expect.
It's no secret that I love Sloan Johnson's baseball men so it comes as no surprise that i thoroughly enjoyed this one too, the first in an offshoot from her Homeruns novels.
In this we find out more about Zach, twin brother of Nate who was the subject of the last book. Like his brother, Zach is gay but unlike Nate, he's in the closet.
Because of this, the love of his college days, Griffin, left him because he didn't want to come between Zach and his professional football career.
This is a second chances romance, as Griffin ends up being one of the cameramen on a behind the scenes reality show which is following the team in the pre-season training.
There's the odd editing mistakes, as has been the case throughout this author's work, Zach is called Griffin in one sentence but thankfully it's an isolated error and not one which fully pulls you out of the story.
I'm now looking forward to finding out about Nixon and Lincoln's past and seeing if they're going to finally make it. Good start to this new series of books and the usual great cover I've come to expect.
dnf
February 18, 2022DNF @ 21%. Boring, repetitive prose with too much internal narration. Plus it bothered me that Griffin realized that the producer of the show he worked on might out Zach/use his sexuality for ratings, but didn't warn Zach about that risk immediately.
February 28, 2017
Reviewed for Sinfully.
I jumped at this story as I love second chance stories and the reality television aspect has also been a winner for me in the past (even though I rarely watch reality TV). This is a start to a new series, but it is spin off of Line Drive, book 6 in the Homeruns series, and although it works as a standalone, I think I might have enjoyed this story more if I had read that book as Zach apparently played a significant role there and there are a lot of references to what happened with his brother Nate.
Zach is a closeted football player coming off of a good rookie year and about to start training camp. When he finds out that his team has been selected to be followed and filmed for the league’s reality series Outside the Pocket, he realizes that he will have to come out to his coach. Griffin is a cameraman and is surprised to be selected for the film crew of Out of the Pocket and even more surprised when he is assigned to follow Zach Kendricks, his first love and the man he walked away from during college. Griffin has regretted how he ended their relationship and is determined to apologize and do what he can to protect Zach’s secret during filming, as he has the feeling that the producers of the show are up to no good. As Griffin and Zach try to overcome their past and see if they have a future, the pressures of their jobs and Zach’s family only add to a difficult situation. While the two recognize the mistakes they made in the past, it’s not so easy to change and as much as they still love each other, there’s no guarantees that they can work things out.
Although the story is about a football player, don’t worry if football is not your thing. There is no on field action as the majority of the story takes place during pre-season training so it’s more of a behind the scenes story. There is some interaction with teammates and the coaching staff, but it doesn’t have an intense sports aspect.
The story started off strong for me. The set up worked very well and happily, Zach and Griffin did clear the air about the past pretty early. It’s told in alternating POV which helped as the two fight their feelings and wonder if risking careers and their hearts is a good course of action. There are also a number of secondary characters that are introduced, some obviously helpful and others with questionable motives and interests. Most of these are either Zach’s family or teammates and some of them are obviously going to have their stories told during the series. Ultimately, I was more intrigued by two of these secondary characters, Nixon and Lincoln, who will be the subject of the next book, than I was by Zach and Griffin.
With the nature of their jobs and the need to keep their past and current relationship secret, Zach and Griffin don’t spend much time together. I think the real problem for me was that there was more telling than showing, with a number of time jumps of weeks at a time and then months, where we are told in a sentence what happened. For two men who were each other’s first, and who have never found anyone else who lived up to the other, I didn’t feel the passion of reuniting and rekindling that romance. When the two were on page together, they spent a lot of time at odds or wondering if what they are doing is a good idea. Some big events that were a concern throughout the story, such as Zach’s sexuality becoming public, were dealt with in a sentence referring back to what happened and what the reaction was, instead of actually seeing the men deal with it.
This was my first book by Sloan Johnson and while I didn’t dislike the story, I found myself less interested in the romance between the main characters and more interested in the interactions between Zach and his family and teammates. I did like Nixon and Lincoln enough that I would read their story, which will be next and I think that maybe, those who have read and liked Line Drive, might get more from the Zach and Griffin’s relationship than I did.
I jumped at this story as I love second chance stories and the reality television aspect has also been a winner for me in the past (even though I rarely watch reality TV). This is a start to a new series, but it is spin off of Line Drive, book 6 in the Homeruns series, and although it works as a standalone, I think I might have enjoyed this story more if I had read that book as Zach apparently played a significant role there and there are a lot of references to what happened with his brother Nate.
Zach is a closeted football player coming off of a good rookie year and about to start training camp. When he finds out that his team has been selected to be followed and filmed for the league’s reality series Outside the Pocket, he realizes that he will have to come out to his coach. Griffin is a cameraman and is surprised to be selected for the film crew of Out of the Pocket and even more surprised when he is assigned to follow Zach Kendricks, his first love and the man he walked away from during college. Griffin has regretted how he ended their relationship and is determined to apologize and do what he can to protect Zach’s secret during filming, as he has the feeling that the producers of the show are up to no good. As Griffin and Zach try to overcome their past and see if they have a future, the pressures of their jobs and Zach’s family only add to a difficult situation. While the two recognize the mistakes they made in the past, it’s not so easy to change and as much as they still love each other, there’s no guarantees that they can work things out.
Although the story is about a football player, don’t worry if football is not your thing. There is no on field action as the majority of the story takes place during pre-season training so it’s more of a behind the scenes story. There is some interaction with teammates and the coaching staff, but it doesn’t have an intense sports aspect.
The story started off strong for me. The set up worked very well and happily, Zach and Griffin did clear the air about the past pretty early. It’s told in alternating POV which helped as the two fight their feelings and wonder if risking careers and their hearts is a good course of action. There are also a number of secondary characters that are introduced, some obviously helpful and others with questionable motives and interests. Most of these are either Zach’s family or teammates and some of them are obviously going to have their stories told during the series. Ultimately, I was more intrigued by two of these secondary characters, Nixon and Lincoln, who will be the subject of the next book, than I was by Zach and Griffin.
With the nature of their jobs and the need to keep their past and current relationship secret, Zach and Griffin don’t spend much time together. I think the real problem for me was that there was more telling than showing, with a number of time jumps of weeks at a time and then months, where we are told in a sentence what happened. For two men who were each other’s first, and who have never found anyone else who lived up to the other, I didn’t feel the passion of reuniting and rekindling that romance. When the two were on page together, they spent a lot of time at odds or wondering if what they are doing is a good idea. Some big events that were a concern throughout the story, such as Zach’s sexuality becoming public, were dealt with in a sentence referring back to what happened and what the reaction was, instead of actually seeing the men deal with it.
This was my first book by Sloan Johnson and while I didn’t dislike the story, I found myself less interested in the romance between the main characters and more interested in the interactions between Zach and his family and teammates. I did like Nixon and Lincoln enough that I would read their story, which will be next and I think that maybe, those who have read and liked Line Drive, might get more from the Zach and Griffin’s relationship than I did.
February 7, 2017
2 out of 5 Disappointing!
I am a fan of Sloan Johnson's Homerun series and I was looking forward to reading this first book in the Wilmington Breakers Series. I made myself get through it, hoping it would get better, unfortunately it did not.
What I didn't like:
-the insipid dialogue. It just didn't ring true.
-whinny boys (men)
-seemingly overblown reactions to past and present situations
-lack of resolution with the "reality show" aspect in the novel
-things were ok and then they weren't and they they were, etc., with little rhyme or reason.
-no heat between the MC's
What I did like:
- the concept of integrating reality tv and social media. But again, this was very poorly done.
I'll likely not return to this series.
I am a fan of Sloan Johnson's Homerun series and I was looking forward to reading this first book in the Wilmington Breakers Series. I made myself get through it, hoping it would get better, unfortunately it did not.
What I didn't like:
-the insipid dialogue. It just didn't ring true.
-whinny boys (men)
-seemingly overblown reactions to past and present situations
-lack of resolution with the "reality show" aspect in the novel
-things were ok and then they weren't and they they were, etc., with little rhyme or reason.
-no heat between the MC's
What I did like:
- the concept of integrating reality tv and social media. But again, this was very poorly done.
I'll likely not return to this series.
February 7, 2017
5 Stars!
WARNING: you should be aware that if you start reading this book you will not put it down until you finish!
Like Homeruns Serie, also this new series is addictive! Beware!!!!!!
Awesome story, I loved Zach since Nate & Pj's book. Amazing and well written story and can't wait to read the next one!
WARNING: you should be aware that if you start reading this book you will not put it down until you finish!
Like Homeruns Serie, also this new series is addictive! Beware!!!!!!
Awesome story, I loved Zach since Nate & Pj's book. Amazing and well written story and can't wait to read the next one!
February 5, 2017
Ugh.
I don't even know - it's the same formula.
Zach is the NFL player and Griff is the struggling artist. They dated but broke up because Grif couldn't be stuck in the closest. Then they meet again and then they get back together.
I mean...I'm sure you have 100.1 books in your M/M pile that already have this trope so save the ££ or $$.
I don't even know - it's the same formula.
Zach is the NFL player and Griff is the struggling artist. They dated but broke up because Grif couldn't be stuck in the closest. Then they meet again and then they get back together.
I mean...I'm sure you have 100.1 books in your M/M pile that already have this trope so save the ££ or $$.
December 31, 2023
Great premise that a reality show follows the Breakers football team, with one of the stars Zach being one of the featured players. In a twist of fate the camera man assigned to follow him is his ex from college, Griffin. They broke up after Zach wanted to stay closeted, and Griffin was not prepared to be Zach’s secret long-term.
This book is now a couple of years ago but there are so many ethical issues with the show and how this book doesn’t actually address them. The show outs Zach (even though he was some way to doing this willingly himself) and Griffin knew it was going to happen but didn’t really go out of his way to prepare Zach that this was definitely happening. I liked the perspective from both that they were each other’s ever after person (in terms of what they wanted from them) but they really struggled to communicate, up until even the epilogue … there was alot of internalising and musing which was kind of draining with both being kind of isolated and solitary types which made them both a bit high maintenance and whiney.
This book is now a couple of years ago but there are so many ethical issues with the show and how this book doesn’t actually address them. The show outs Zach (even though he was some way to doing this willingly himself) and Griffin knew it was going to happen but didn’t really go out of his way to prepare Zach that this was definitely happening. I liked the perspective from both that they were each other’s ever after person (in terms of what they wanted from them) but they really struggled to communicate, up until even the epilogue … there was alot of internalising and musing which was kind of draining with both being kind of isolated and solitary types which made them both a bit high maintenance and whiney.
March 1, 2017
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
3.5 Stars
I had a ton of trouble rating this book. I love Ms. Johnson's work and it pains me that I didn't fall in love with this one.
Down by Contact is a second chance romance. Griffin and Zach had a relationship while they were in college. Zach was a star athlete and still in the closet. Griffin was okay at first but with time realized his life may always be that way. Thinking he was doing the best for both of them he walked away.
Years later they are forced to work together. Can they do that without old feelings good and bad coming back? Can they just have a working relationship or will there always be more? Is Zach finally ready to stop living a lie and live his life? Will Griffin still be there when Zach is ready?
I did enjoy the story to a point. Griffin and Zach are both strong character but the story just seemed to familiar. For me it was Line Drive plot just reworked. I hate that I didn't love it, being that I loved Line Drive but Down by Contact just didn't work for me.
3.5 Stars
I had a ton of trouble rating this book. I love Ms. Johnson's work and it pains me that I didn't fall in love with this one.
Down by Contact is a second chance romance. Griffin and Zach had a relationship while they were in college. Zach was a star athlete and still in the closet. Griffin was okay at first but with time realized his life may always be that way. Thinking he was doing the best for both of them he walked away.
Years later they are forced to work together. Can they do that without old feelings good and bad coming back? Can they just have a working relationship or will there always be more? Is Zach finally ready to stop living a lie and live his life? Will Griffin still be there when Zach is ready?
I did enjoy the story to a point. Griffin and Zach are both strong character but the story just seemed to familiar. For me it was Line Drive plot just reworked. I hate that I didn't love it, being that I loved Line Drive but Down by Contact just didn't work for me.
May 24, 2017
I love a second chance romance. Zach and Griffin were great together once they both got through their insecurities. I am REALLY looking forward to Nixon's story next!!
March 10, 2022
RTC I liked this one but I had issues fully connecting to is, I still had a good time reading it though.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion
February 23, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
When this book opened I was drawn into both Zach and Griffin’s lives and with dual POV, the book offers an inside look at both men. This is a second chance romance as Zach and Griffin were in love in college and when Griffin felt that Zach would truly never come out, Griffin left. But he didn’t just leave; he left without a word and no further contact. Griffin was completely in love with Zach and a strong part of him felt that he was doing what was best for both of them, but he has also regretted it ever since. I appreciated that the author doesn’t draw this part out. In the earlier chapters the guys get it all out in the open and try to move forward as they have to work together. We are then told they both still have feelings for each other, but it all read as muted.
The football aspect, as well as the reality show aspect, didn’t work out for me. Zach was a football player in name only. We only see him working out with trainers a few times and talking to the coach and other than that, there is no football in the book and it’s not until the halfway point that Zach’s position is even mentioned, although in passing. The reality show scenes itself were predictable and Griffin became an unreliable character with each passing scene. He learns early on that the show’s producers are looking to exploit Zach, yet he doesn’t say anything and then is surprised when they follow through. Then, he bounces back and forth between talking to Zach, the coaches, and the producers and the conversations surrounding the show were overly convoluted, while the actions of the reality show moved forward in the most predictable manner. It’s all standard reality show fare, yet none of the characters see the deception coming.
The show, also, wasn’t very interesting. Zach says he’s just a regular guy and he is. There is mostly only Griffin with one camera filming Zach work out and unpack from his move. Then, when things start moving along in a somewhat contrived manner, you had to wonder just whose side Griffin was on. He said he was looking out for Zach, yet that wasn’t always made clear as he was also trying to keep his job. The book primarily moved from one conversation to the next and while talking between characters can certainly be a plus, we were given the run down on what had happened and what was going to happen and there was minimal movement, which became frustrating.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
When this book opened I was drawn into both Zach and Griffin’s lives and with dual POV, the book offers an inside look at both men. This is a second chance romance as Zach and Griffin were in love in college and when Griffin felt that Zach would truly never come out, Griffin left. But he didn’t just leave; he left without a word and no further contact. Griffin was completely in love with Zach and a strong part of him felt that he was doing what was best for both of them, but he has also regretted it ever since. I appreciated that the author doesn’t draw this part out. In the earlier chapters the guys get it all out in the open and try to move forward as they have to work together. We are then told they both still have feelings for each other, but it all read as muted.
The football aspect, as well as the reality show aspect, didn’t work out for me. Zach was a football player in name only. We only see him working out with trainers a few times and talking to the coach and other than that, there is no football in the book and it’s not until the halfway point that Zach’s position is even mentioned, although in passing. The reality show scenes itself were predictable and Griffin became an unreliable character with each passing scene. He learns early on that the show’s producers are looking to exploit Zach, yet he doesn’t say anything and then is surprised when they follow through. Then, he bounces back and forth between talking to Zach, the coaches, and the producers and the conversations surrounding the show were overly convoluted, while the actions of the reality show moved forward in the most predictable manner. It’s all standard reality show fare, yet none of the characters see the deception coming.
The show, also, wasn’t very interesting. Zach says he’s just a regular guy and he is. There is mostly only Griffin with one camera filming Zach work out and unpack from his move. Then, when things start moving along in a somewhat contrived manner, you had to wonder just whose side Griffin was on. He said he was looking out for Zach, yet that wasn’t always made clear as he was also trying to keep his job. The book primarily moved from one conversation to the next and while talking between characters can certainly be a plus, we were given the run down on what had happened and what was going to happen and there was minimal movement, which became frustrating.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
February 19, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
Although this is the first in the series -we are in fact meeting Tate's twin Zach. Tate and PJ's story was the focus of Line Drive (Homeruns 6). So the sport may now be football, but the characters feel wonderfully familiar.
I really enjoyed this book. It does an amazing job of making pre-season training exciting. By using the vehicle of a no holds bar behind the scenes tv show to deliver a powerful plot and a really yummy romance.
Griffin left Zach in the belief that he would be better off without him - now he finds he is the cameraman shadow for the man as he prepares for the season. Unbeknown to him, Zach has just revealed to his coach that he is gay, and is tired of living a lie. As the story unfolds we are always a little on edge as to how the news will be released, how it will affect Zach, and whether there can be a second chance for these guys. There is little doubt that they have strong feelings for each other, but can it be enough.
I really enjoyed the story, and the hints as to who may feature in future releases - I am looking forward to it already!
Although this is the first in the series -we are in fact meeting Tate's twin Zach. Tate and PJ's story was the focus of Line Drive (Homeruns 6). So the sport may now be football, but the characters feel wonderfully familiar.
I really enjoyed this book. It does an amazing job of making pre-season training exciting. By using the vehicle of a no holds bar behind the scenes tv show to deliver a powerful plot and a really yummy romance.
Griffin left Zach in the belief that he would be better off without him - now he finds he is the cameraman shadow for the man as he prepares for the season. Unbeknown to him, Zach has just revealed to his coach that he is gay, and is tired of living a lie. As the story unfolds we are always a little on edge as to how the news will be released, how it will affect Zach, and whether there can be a second chance for these guys. There is little doubt that they have strong feelings for each other, but can it be enough.
I really enjoyed the story, and the hints as to who may feature in future releases - I am looking forward to it already!
February 17, 2017
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Oooh - Sloan Johnson and a new sport! American football is as unfathomable to me as baseball but the men are still pretty, emotionally needy and a bit sweaty so it’s all good. The sport may be new but Zach, the main character, is the brother of Nate in the last Homeruns book. In this story, Zach is unexpectedly reunited with Griffin, the man he loved and lost in college. Zach may have one last chance to own up to his sexuality and his feelings for Griffin, but he also only has one chance to make it in the NFL.
I really loved this story. Themes from the Homeruns books are back as Zach struggles with the pressure to remain closeted as a professional sportsman. There are new ideas here - Griffin works for a company that is filming Zach’s team for a reality show and I really liked the way the author questions the ethics of manipulating lives in pursuit of reality TV show ratings.
Zach and Griffin are sexy together. I love the second chance element of this romance and the complex history between these two.
Zach’s teammates are wonderful and I’m hoping the new series title means that we’ll see more of these men. As always, Sloan Johnson has written a wonderful sports romance and I think the quality of her writing is getting better with every new book. This is an easy reading pleasure.
Oooh - Sloan Johnson and a new sport! American football is as unfathomable to me as baseball but the men are still pretty, emotionally needy and a bit sweaty so it’s all good. The sport may be new but Zach, the main character, is the brother of Nate in the last Homeruns book. In this story, Zach is unexpectedly reunited with Griffin, the man he loved and lost in college. Zach may have one last chance to own up to his sexuality and his feelings for Griffin, but he also only has one chance to make it in the NFL.
I really loved this story. Themes from the Homeruns books are back as Zach struggles with the pressure to remain closeted as a professional sportsman. There are new ideas here - Griffin works for a company that is filming Zach’s team for a reality show and I really liked the way the author questions the ethics of manipulating lives in pursuit of reality TV show ratings.
Zach and Griffin are sexy together. I love the second chance element of this romance and the complex history between these two.
Zach’s teammates are wonderful and I’m hoping the new series title means that we’ll see more of these men. As always, Sloan Johnson has written a wonderful sports romance and I think the quality of her writing is getting better with every new book. This is an easy reading pleasure.
February 7, 2017
I have enjoyed Sloan Johnson's Homeruns series and was quite happy to see that there was more to come in this new spin-off series. The switch from baseball to American football (yes, the 'American' does belong in there - football is otherwise something you play with your feet!) was irrelevant to me; I know absolutely nothing about either one of those sports. But it doesn't matter. I don't have to to enjoy these books.
Down By Contact may well be my favorite so far. We already met Zach in Line Drive where his twin brother Nate found his HEA.
Back in college, Zach himself had already found happiness with Griffin, but being completely focused on his football career meant staying in the closet which ultimately led to Griffin walking away.
Zach never expected to see Griffin again and is shocked to his core when Griffin shows up again as part of TV crew filming a reality show featuring the Wilmington Breakers, Zach's team.
It doesn't take long before old flames are rekindled but there is uncertainty on both sides. Zach is afraid he will still not be able to really be the man Griffin deserves:
"I fucked up majorly in the past and I can't guarantee I won't do it again. And I'm not sure I'll make it through watching you walk away again."
At the same time Griffin finds it hard to truly believe Zach is willing to come out and really be with him, which does cause a bit of frustration on Zach's part:
"I love you, you jackass. What do I have to do to prove that to you?"
This is a romance, so obviously everything works out in the end. I would have like that to be a bit more hashed out - it seemed a bit abrupt. But this is still an excellent start to a new series.
Down By Contact may well be my favorite so far. We already met Zach in Line Drive where his twin brother Nate found his HEA.
Back in college, Zach himself had already found happiness with Griffin, but being completely focused on his football career meant staying in the closet which ultimately led to Griffin walking away.
Zach never expected to see Griffin again and is shocked to his core when Griffin shows up again as part of TV crew filming a reality show featuring the Wilmington Breakers, Zach's team.
It doesn't take long before old flames are rekindled but there is uncertainty on both sides. Zach is afraid he will still not be able to really be the man Griffin deserves:
"I fucked up majorly in the past and I can't guarantee I won't do it again. And I'm not sure I'll make it through watching you walk away again."
At the same time Griffin finds it hard to truly believe Zach is willing to come out and really be with him, which does cause a bit of frustration on Zach's part:
"I love you, you jackass. What do I have to do to prove that to you?"
This is a romance, so obviously everything works out in the end. I would have like that to be a bit more hashed out - it seemed a bit abrupt. But this is still an excellent start to a new series.
February 7, 2017
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
I am usually not one to read books about sports but Sloan Johnson convinced me to read baseball in the past so why not football this time? I love Zach and Griff’s story. I don’t care for the reality TV part of the book, just because I am not a big reality TV person. This was a sweet love story, sometimes some things seemed to just be accepted way to easy but hey, sometimes in life you actually get lucky. There was a little angst but nothing that made you ball your eyes out. I will say though that I did cry when reading this book, I am just a sap like that. I can’t wait to see who the next book is about, there were a few characters in this book I wouldn’t mind seeing up next. Great start to a new series.
Characters: well written
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
I am usually not one to read books about sports but Sloan Johnson convinced me to read baseball in the past so why not football this time? I love Zach and Griff’s story. I don’t care for the reality TV part of the book, just because I am not a big reality TV person. This was a sweet love story, sometimes some things seemed to just be accepted way to easy but hey, sometimes in life you actually get lucky. There was a little angst but nothing that made you ball your eyes out. I will say though that I did cry when reading this book, I am just a sap like that. I can’t wait to see who the next book is about, there were a few characters in this book I wouldn’t mind seeing up next. Great start to a new series.
Characters: well written
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
May 11, 2017
Ok firstly I've read and enjoyed all of Sloane's Homerun series but honestly, I really struggled with this one. It pains me to write this as I think Sloan is a great author and hopefully I'm in the minority but this one just did not do it for me.
This story follows Zach (Nate's twin brother from Homerun book 6) and Griffin. These two were together in college and Zach insisting their relationship stay secret due to his potential professional football career lead to Griffin walking away.
Zach is now a professional football player and a reality TV show will be filming the team in their pre Season training. Griffin happens to be one of the cameramen and assigned to Zach to follow him around at all times filming him in his every day life as well as at training.
Initially Zach is angry towards Griffin re entering his life and is suspicious of his motives. He insists they will not be getting back together or even really interacting other than what they've got to do for the show. Then seemingly in the next sentence they are both all in, getting back together and boyfriends again. It was all very clunky and odd.
I felt no real heat or chemistry between these two and at times just found it awkward and frustrating to read. They were both quite whiny and made dramas out of very little throughout. There were quite a few secondary characters in this book which I did feel added to the story. Lincoln appeared randomly about half way through then had a very big role in the second half of this book which again was just written quite oddly.
I liked that this was a sports romance but not overloaded with technical terminology and play time and in fact as this was mainly based around pre season there wasn't really any football references. I also liked the fact this book focused on the very real and unacceptable way Zach was outed by the TV company instead of on his own terms.
As I said I found this review difficult to write as I honestly respect Sloan as an author and I hope that maybe because this was a bridge book between book 6 of the previous series and book 1 of this new one that that is why this read a bit disjointed and clunky?. I will definitely be reading book 2 about Lincoln and Nixon!
This story follows Zach (Nate's twin brother from Homerun book 6) and Griffin. These two were together in college and Zach insisting their relationship stay secret due to his potential professional football career lead to Griffin walking away.
Zach is now a professional football player and a reality TV show will be filming the team in their pre Season training. Griffin happens to be one of the cameramen and assigned to Zach to follow him around at all times filming him in his every day life as well as at training.
Initially Zach is angry towards Griffin re entering his life and is suspicious of his motives. He insists they will not be getting back together or even really interacting other than what they've got to do for the show. Then seemingly in the next sentence they are both all in, getting back together and boyfriends again. It was all very clunky and odd.
I felt no real heat or chemistry between these two and at times just found it awkward and frustrating to read. They were both quite whiny and made dramas out of very little throughout. There were quite a few secondary characters in this book which I did feel added to the story. Lincoln appeared randomly about half way through then had a very big role in the second half of this book which again was just written quite oddly.
I liked that this was a sports romance but not overloaded with technical terminology and play time and in fact as this was mainly based around pre season there wasn't really any football references. I also liked the fact this book focused on the very real and unacceptable way Zach was outed by the TV company instead of on his own terms.
As I said I found this review difficult to write as I honestly respect Sloan as an author and I hope that maybe because this was a bridge book between book 6 of the previous series and book 1 of this new one that that is why this read a bit disjointed and clunky?. I will definitely be reading book 2 about Lincoln and Nixon!
March 24, 2017
3 Hearts
Down By Contact was a slightly confusing/frustrating read with sweet and hopeful elements. I’ve read a few books by this author in the past so I feel pretty comfortable with her writing style and how she tells a story which isn’t bad, but this one was more on the blah side.
I gave this one a try because I love the closeted sports player storyline and reunion stories get me every time. This one was a bit chunky and hard to follow. There were time lapses and it feels like I blinked and all was forgiven. It was almost like I missed something. But I didn’t. This is low on actual football, which is ok because I feel if she would have added more of the technical football side this story would have been even more frustrating. Down By Contact focuses more on the reality show/ill will machinations that come from behind the scenes.
Zach Kendrick’s life as a professional football player is all he’s ever wanted. That is until he hooked up and fell in love with Griffin in college. When Griffin walked away, Zach clung even more onto making his dream of becoming a pro-football player a reality.
Flash forward a few years; Zach has made his dream a reality. Unfortunately a TV show that follows around football players wants to feature Zach and the cameraman for the show just so happens to be his ex-love from college, Griffin.
There isn’t any real mystery to this story. You basically know this story line and the author doesn’t deviate from it. What was a little odd was the flow of the storyline. It was like one minute they were absolutely not getting back together and the next minute they were saying, “I love you’ and hot sex.
This was just ok for me….it’ll be interesting to see where she goes with the other characters.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Down By Contact was a slightly confusing/frustrating read with sweet and hopeful elements. I’ve read a few books by this author in the past so I feel pretty comfortable with her writing style and how she tells a story which isn’t bad, but this one was more on the blah side.
I gave this one a try because I love the closeted sports player storyline and reunion stories get me every time. This one was a bit chunky and hard to follow. There were time lapses and it feels like I blinked and all was forgiven. It was almost like I missed something. But I didn’t. This is low on actual football, which is ok because I feel if she would have added more of the technical football side this story would have been even more frustrating. Down By Contact focuses more on the reality show/ill will machinations that come from behind the scenes.
Zach Kendrick’s life as a professional football player is all he’s ever wanted. That is until he hooked up and fell in love with Griffin in college. When Griffin walked away, Zach clung even more onto making his dream of becoming a pro-football player a reality.
Flash forward a few years; Zach has made his dream a reality. Unfortunately a TV show that follows around football players wants to feature Zach and the cameraman for the show just so happens to be his ex-love from college, Griffin.
There isn’t any real mystery to this story. You basically know this story line and the author doesn’t deviate from it. What was a little odd was the flow of the storyline. It was like one minute they were absolutely not getting back together and the next minute they were saying, “I love you’ and hot sex.
This was just ok for me….it’ll be interesting to see where she goes with the other characters.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
July 27, 2022
"Down by Contact" (an expression often visited as a book title in M/M romance sports) is the first book of the Tackled by Love series by Quinn Ward. The book revolves around Zach and Griffin, a professional American football player and a cameraman respectively. The spin in the story is they were a couple in the past but ended up splitting because Zach was a prospective professional player living very deep in the closet. Now, the production company tasked with shooting a pre-season show starring Zach's current team catches wind of their past relationship, and they have Griffin shadowing Zach in hopes of catching on camera the re-kindling of their love, all in the name of show-biz. Against this background, Griffin and Zach will have to heal past wounds and decide whether giving another try to their relationship is compatible with their lives.
The book reads good and easy, the main characters are mainly well-built, and on the whole, the story provides a nice background for launching the series. It is then recommended for those looking for a nice and relaxing down time.
On the other hand, I found the story a bit plain and would easily lose focus. MCs are well built, especially when it comes to their past, but in my opinion, they lack chemistry - maybe because the past weights too much. Griffin was the one to precipitate the break-up in the past, as the more he fell in love with Zach, the more Zach hid him from the public eye. Zach is repentant of decisions past and fears Griffin will leave again. Griffin is now fixed on asserting his independence, and here is where most of the current drama lies now - including exceeding degrees of tunnel vision on both sides. This back and forth got tyring, and I found it a bit surprising that they take so much time to make up their minds - and even then, only thanks to Nate's intervention. I found way more interesting Lincoln and Nixon, which are supporting characters here but main characters in the following book in the series, "False Start”. Looking forward to that one.
The book reads good and easy, the main characters are mainly well-built, and on the whole, the story provides a nice background for launching the series. It is then recommended for those looking for a nice and relaxing down time.
On the other hand, I found the story a bit plain and would easily lose focus. MCs are well built, especially when it comes to their past, but in my opinion, they lack chemistry - maybe because the past weights too much. Griffin was the one to precipitate the break-up in the past, as the more he fell in love with Zach, the more Zach hid him from the public eye. Zach is repentant of decisions past and fears Griffin will leave again. Griffin is now fixed on asserting his independence, and here is where most of the current drama lies now - including exceeding degrees of tunnel vision on both sides. This back and forth got tyring, and I found it a bit surprising that they take so much time to make up their minds - and even then, only thanks to Nate's intervention. I found way more interesting Lincoln and Nixon, which are supporting characters here but main characters in the following book in the series, "False Start”. Looking forward to that one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf
September 30, 2024(DNF@36%) Zach and Griffin used to secretly date in college until one day Griffin, unable to keep being Zach's dirty secret, just up and left, transferring to another college with no explanation to Zach.
Now, three years later, Zach's team is picked as the team for this season of a reality show following football players, and Griffin is the cameraman assigned to Zach. Almost immediately, Griffin realizes that his assignment to Zach is not a coincidence and that the show’s producer has somehow learned about their past, using it as a ploy to get juicy content for the show.
So Griffin vows to stay by Zach's side in order to protect him against possible scheming by the show. Except he never actually tells Zach—who is already suspicious about Griffin's motives for being part of the show—about any of it, instead leaving Zach to fumble around in the dark and come out to his teammates while being secretly recorded...
I don't even remember how I stumbled across this book, but the moment I did, I didn't think too hard about jumping right in. I am a fan of romances with a reality show theme, and the premise of a reality TV cameraman falling in love with one of the stars on a reality show sounded more than interesting.
Unfortunately, considering Griffin and Zach's past, this story turned out to be focused more on the second-chance aspect than the reality show aspect. Which, my bad, I probably should have seen coming instead of being distracted by the reality show tag, but they are so few and far between. Anyway, I didn't particularly like either Griffin or Zach's characters, and the storyline just seemed sloppy. I lost interest pretty quickly and never really felt the urge to get back to it. Finally, I'm putting this one to rest on my DNF shelf, as it has been languishing on Currently Reading for over a year now.
Themes: dual POV, reality TV, second chance, closeted character, american football
Now, three years later, Zach's team is picked as the team for this season of a reality show following football players, and Griffin is the cameraman assigned to Zach. Almost immediately, Griffin realizes that his assignment to Zach is not a coincidence and that the show’s producer has somehow learned about their past, using it as a ploy to get juicy content for the show.
So Griffin vows to stay by Zach's side in order to protect him against possible scheming by the show. Except he never actually tells Zach—who is already suspicious about Griffin's motives for being part of the show—about any of it, instead leaving Zach to fumble around in the dark and come out to his teammates while being secretly recorded...
I don't even remember how I stumbled across this book, but the moment I did, I didn't think too hard about jumping right in. I am a fan of romances with a reality show theme, and the premise of a reality TV cameraman falling in love with one of the stars on a reality show sounded more than interesting.
Unfortunately, considering Griffin and Zach's past, this story turned out to be focused more on the second-chance aspect than the reality show aspect. Which, my bad, I probably should have seen coming instead of being distracted by the reality show tag, but they are so few and far between. Anyway, I didn't particularly like either Griffin or Zach's characters, and the storyline just seemed sloppy. I lost interest pretty quickly and never really felt the urge to get back to it. Finally, I'm putting this one to rest on my DNF shelf, as it has been languishing on Currently Reading for over a year now.
Themes: dual POV, reality TV, second chance, closeted character, american football
March 6, 2022
A good start to a new series from Quinn Ward. I've loved reading their previous sports romance and now we move to football, though this is set more at the training camp rather than any games.
Zach and Griffin are given a second chance at love when they are brought together by the powers that be who film Outside The Pocket, a reality show following a football team and their players in the lead up to a new season. Griffin is the cameraman assigned to follow Zach but the did not part on good terms with their previous relationship having been a secret due to Zach not being out. He's changing the narrative now though, doing things in his terms whilst the both come to accept that they are still just as in love with each other as before but now more mature, mostly.
This is a sweet romance, Zach still has an air of innocence about him with his focus having been so much on himself and football but seeing his brother's relationship with a baseball player and learning from Griffin about his own guilt and heartache. A good thing about their second chance is that they learn from their mistakes so there is a lot of talking, but also listening to those who support them and want the best for them both. There's a bit of angst between then about their history and any possible future, as well as things going on for Zach when it comes to his coming out and everything going on with the TV show. It's definitely not as hands off as they would have you think with some careful orchestrating from the start.
A recommended read that fans of the author will enjoy.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Zach and Griffin are given a second chance at love when they are brought together by the powers that be who film Outside The Pocket, a reality show following a football team and their players in the lead up to a new season. Griffin is the cameraman assigned to follow Zach but the did not part on good terms with their previous relationship having been a secret due to Zach not being out. He's changing the narrative now though, doing things in his terms whilst the both come to accept that they are still just as in love with each other as before but now more mature, mostly.
This is a sweet romance, Zach still has an air of innocence about him with his focus having been so much on himself and football but seeing his brother's relationship with a baseball player and learning from Griffin about his own guilt and heartache. A good thing about their second chance is that they learn from their mistakes so there is a lot of talking, but also listening to those who support them and want the best for them both. There's a bit of angst between then about their history and any possible future, as well as things going on for Zach when it comes to his coming out and everything going on with the TV show. It's definitely not as hands off as they would have you think with some careful orchestrating from the start.
A recommended read that fans of the author will enjoy.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 10, 2017
Window shopping in the locker room! Pro football player's second chance at love sets the stage for a win! This was my first read by this author and I found another author who will be a one-click purchase or a guaranteed K.U. read. Griffin is a photographer on a sports news assignment sent to cover a player for a professional football team. He soon discovers that the player is his closeted ex-boyfriend and before too long they discover that the whole thing, his hire and the assignment were created to make news for a failing news agency. The wide receiver, Zach, foiled the plan because he was happy to see Griffen and had planned to be more open about his orientation. Things were not that simple as there were many competing factors threatening their relationship if it could be called that.
Zach's twin brother reminded him, upon learning of Griffin's reappearance in Zach's life that "maybe what we need comes into our life when we need it and it's up to us to recognize that".
There was plenty of passion, intimacy and a bit of fun included with a few twists, secrets, some revealed and others still waiting for later. Zach's coming out to his team was well-handled and rather funny. When asked by a teammate if he checked them out in the locker room he responded that he did, of course. We all check each other out and compare junk but "Just because I happen to be gay doesn't mean that I'm here window shopping." I sincerely enjoyed this story and will absolutely read the next!
Zach's twin brother reminded him, upon learning of Griffin's reappearance in Zach's life that "maybe what we need comes into our life when we need it and it's up to us to recognize that".
There was plenty of passion, intimacy and a bit of fun included with a few twists, secrets, some revealed and others still waiting for later. Zach's coming out to his team was well-handled and rather funny. When asked by a teammate if he checked them out in the locker room he responded that he did, of course. We all check each other out and compare junk but "Just because I happen to be gay doesn't mean that I'm here window shopping." I sincerely enjoyed this story and will absolutely read the next!
November 14, 2017
4.5
Down by Contact is the first book in the Wilmington Breakers series. I love Sloan's Homeruns series and she made the perfect transition from baseball to football. I'm a huge fan of sports romances and second chance romances and this is both! Zach is Nate's brother from Line Drive. He's a football player going into his second year and he's gay, but in the closet. He lost the love of his life in college because he wanted to hide and play the game he loves. Zach never forgot Griffin and when he comes face to face with him years later, he's forced to face the past. Griffin walked away from Zach because he was tired of hiding who he was and what they meant to each other. He wasn't planning on seeing Zach again, but now that he's there he's going to apologize and hope they can find their way back to each other.
Zach is not happy to see Griffin, but he realizes he needs to make a change in his life. If he wants to be happy, he needs to set himself free. Will Zach finally come out to his team? Will Griffin promise not to run again? I loved this couple. Dare I say they are sweet? Zach is sexy, funny and stubborn and Griffin is smart, handsome and sexy. There isn't as much heat as some of Sloan's other books, but the story was poignant, emotional and loving. Can't wait to see who's next!
"Relax. It's just me, we've done this before."
"I know. That's what scares me."
Down by Contact is the first book in the Wilmington Breakers series. I love Sloan's Homeruns series and she made the perfect transition from baseball to football. I'm a huge fan of sports romances and second chance romances and this is both! Zach is Nate's brother from Line Drive. He's a football player going into his second year and he's gay, but in the closet. He lost the love of his life in college because he wanted to hide and play the game he loves. Zach never forgot Griffin and when he comes face to face with him years later, he's forced to face the past. Griffin walked away from Zach because he was tired of hiding who he was and what they meant to each other. He wasn't planning on seeing Zach again, but now that he's there he's going to apologize and hope they can find their way back to each other.
Zach is not happy to see Griffin, but he realizes he needs to make a change in his life. If he wants to be happy, he needs to set himself free. Will Zach finally come out to his team? Will Griffin promise not to run again? I loved this couple. Dare I say they are sweet? Zach is sexy, funny and stubborn and Griffin is smart, handsome and sexy. There isn't as much heat as some of Sloan's other books, but the story was poignant, emotional and loving. Can't wait to see who's next!
"Relax. It's just me, we've done this before."
"I know. That's what scares me."
October 9, 2021
This was okay but not great. My main issue was the inconsistent pacing and storyline.
Zach and Griffin haven't seen each other in a few years (after ). Now Zach is preparing for his second year of football, and Griffin is once again in his life as a cameraman for a reality show following Zach's football team. The premise definitely sounded interesting, but
It just didn't work for me.
Zach and Griffin haven't seen each other in a few years (after ). Now Zach is preparing for his second year of football, and Griffin is once again in his life as a cameraman for a reality show following Zach's football team. The premise definitely sounded interesting, but
It just didn't work for me.
March 10, 2022
What a touching story of the journey a homosexual football player endured, witnessing his exploration and courage needed in a sport where homosexuality is generally not accepted. The pleasure of learning dynamics entailed with coming out was encouraging and very knowledgeable, adding to the intriguing storyline. Also, can we take a moment to appreciate the accuracy of logistics that come with training camp for an upcoming season.
Zach and Griffin’s second chance was well deserved, especially considering the circumstances of their initial separation. Their connection was pure and raw, relying on the other more than they realized. Chemistry was definitely not an issue, as the fireworks were exploding from their eyes meeting again. Their intimacy being felt through the words, having an emotional connection that was unable to be denied.
I absolutely love sports romances in general, but this one has to be one of my top five as the direction was focused more on the grueling truth of acceptance with being a gay player in the spotlight. The authors ability to bring the reader into the story, allowing the emotions to pour out through their words, was remarkable. While also setting up multiple characters for future releases with their impeccable development. Looking forward to future releases from this author!!
I received an arc from GRR in exchange for an honest review.
Zach and Griffin’s second chance was well deserved, especially considering the circumstances of their initial separation. Their connection was pure and raw, relying on the other more than they realized. Chemistry was definitely not an issue, as the fireworks were exploding from their eyes meeting again. Their intimacy being felt through the words, having an emotional connection that was unable to be denied.
I absolutely love sports romances in general, but this one has to be one of my top five as the direction was focused more on the grueling truth of acceptance with being a gay player in the spotlight. The authors ability to bring the reader into the story, allowing the emotions to pour out through their words, was remarkable. While also setting up multiple characters for future releases with their impeccable development. Looking forward to future releases from this author!!
I received an arc from GRR in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2017
4 1/2 out of 5 stars
Oh my! Griffin and Zach!! Really, there is no way to put this story into simple words for a review without sounding cheesy, but it was an incredible read and I’m so thankful I got the chance to read it.
Griffin and Zach have a history so reading their story, I expected to see explosions and tension and lots and lots of drama, but it was written so well I didn’t feel like I was in a soap opera.
One of my favorite side characters was Nix, the athletic trainer for Zach’s football team. He was honest and brutal, but only to the point of trying to get Zach to see the greatness he had within and show that to the world. One of my favorite Nix quotes was when Zach was trying to decide what to do about Griffin in the beginning and Nix was flat out honest:
“Boy, you might have a degree on the wall, but you’re dumber than a box of rocks.”
I really can’t wait to read more about the team and other players, but I really, really hope that Nix gets his own story soon.
*** I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
Oh my! Griffin and Zach!! Really, there is no way to put this story into simple words for a review without sounding cheesy, but it was an incredible read and I’m so thankful I got the chance to read it.
Griffin and Zach have a history so reading their story, I expected to see explosions and tension and lots and lots of drama, but it was written so well I didn’t feel like I was in a soap opera.
One of my favorite side characters was Nix, the athletic trainer for Zach’s football team. He was honest and brutal, but only to the point of trying to get Zach to see the greatness he had within and show that to the world. One of my favorite Nix quotes was when Zach was trying to decide what to do about Griffin in the beginning and Nix was flat out honest:
“Boy, you might have a degree on the wall, but you’re dumber than a box of rocks.”
I really can’t wait to read more about the team and other players, but I really, really hope that Nix gets his own story soon.
*** I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
June 16, 2021
Down By Contact is a wonderful sports romance by Quinn Ward. No surprise that I love this book! As a sports romance whore, I loved this book when it was first released. I'm thrilled it's now being re-released by Quinn Ward.
If you like football romances, look no further. This has everything I could ask for. Sports. Closeted players. And all the angst of if, when, and how to ever come out.
The first book in the Wilmington Breakers series, this is a spin off of Quinn's Homerun series, with Nate as the connecting character.
Zach, Nate's twin, is a closeted football player. In this read he gets a second chance with Griffin. They're reunited via a reality show that follows Zach's team. And yes, Griffin is one of the men working on the show.
I enjoy the way everything develops between these two. The feelings are real, yet so is the angst. These two definitely are great together, but they first have to overcome some major obstacles in their way.
Down By Contact is a fantastic sports romance. Quinn Ward delivers all the feels in this closeted world of sports. A subject I can't get enough of, I love it all.
If you like football romances, look no further. This has everything I could ask for. Sports. Closeted players. And all the angst of if, when, and how to ever come out.
The first book in the Wilmington Breakers series, this is a spin off of Quinn's Homerun series, with Nate as the connecting character.
Zach, Nate's twin, is a closeted football player. In this read he gets a second chance with Griffin. They're reunited via a reality show that follows Zach's team. And yes, Griffin is one of the men working on the show.
I enjoy the way everything develops between these two. The feelings are real, yet so is the angst. These two definitely are great together, but they first have to overcome some major obstacles in their way.
Down By Contact is a fantastic sports romance. Quinn Ward delivers all the feels in this closeted world of sports. A subject I can't get enough of, I love it all.
March 4, 2022
I loved this second chance romance! Griffin and Zach get the second chance they deserved. I adored these two men together. Griffin and Zach were in a relationship in college. Zach was a star athlete and unfortunately he was still in the closet. Griffin thought he was okay with it at first but eventually realizes he cant live like this for the rest of his life and decides to walk away. Griffin thought he was doing the best thing for both of them. Years later they are forced to work together and all those feelings came rushing back. They tried to keep it as a working relationship but quickly realized the love they had for each other was too strong to ignore. This was a sweet story with heartwarming feels and I adored it!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 1st Person Dual POV
Standalone or series: Book 1 in the Tackled By Love series
Would I recommend it: 4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Definitely!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 1st Person Dual POV
Standalone or series: Book 1 in the Tackled By Love series
Would I recommend it: 4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Definitely!
January 16, 2022
Zach & Griffin used to go out in secret, a long time ago (when Zach was still in the closet). Now Zach has become a pro hockey player, & this year he was one of the chosen athletes who is going to be followed around with a camera so the public learns more about him. Griffin now works for the TV show that will be featuring his ex. In fact, he’s going to be the one in charge of following Zach around.
It might seem to be quite unlucky, but also seems to be a set up at the same time. They seem to be both be used as pawns by someone else.
What happens when everyone finds out that Zach & Griffin seem to know each other just a bit too well, considering they supposedly only just met at the beginning of the filming?
This book doesn’t have the total pages written in the description (which I find annoying). However, if you need to know, it seems to be somewhere between 150 and 200 pages.
This was a cute story, at times predictable, with a nice HEA.
It might seem to be quite unlucky, but also seems to be a set up at the same time. They seem to be both be used as pawns by someone else.
What happens when everyone finds out that Zach & Griffin seem to know each other just a bit too well, considering they supposedly only just met at the beginning of the filming?
This book doesn’t have the total pages written in the description (which I find annoying). However, if you need to know, it seems to be somewhere between 150 and 200 pages.
This was a cute story, at times predictable, with a nice HEA.
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