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The Game Changer #1
Changing the Play
From award-winning author Julia Blake comes a fast-paced romance that offers the perfect mix of competition and passion in the dog-eat-dog world of professional football and sports media.
Rachel Pollard has never been a push-over. That’s why she’s a superstar in the world of sports management, making a name for herself with a shrewd eye for overlooked talent. She certainly isn’t taking any chances with her latest NFL draft prospect, Kevin Loder, who’s poised to shake up the league. But when Nick Ruben, a tenacious sports reporter who also happens to be the crush who ignored her all through high school, picks up the scent of a long-buried story, Rachel suddenly finds herself playing defense for the first time in years.
Nick usually doesn’t strike out with women, but his always-dependable charm isn’t getting him anywhere with Rachel or the interview he needs to save his job from his network’s impending layoffs. He knows he’s pressing hard, but she’s pushing back just as much—it’d almost be fun if his career wasn’t on the line. But after weeks of begging and finally striking a deal for an exclusive, Nick is surprised to realize he wants their relationship to be anything but professional. Now he has to figure out a way to save his job without hurting hers, and to make the girl he overlooked in high school believe he’s worth a shot at love.
Rachel Pollard has never been a push-over. That’s why she’s a superstar in the world of sports management, making a name for herself with a shrewd eye for overlooked talent. She certainly isn’t taking any chances with her latest NFL draft prospect, Kevin Loder, who’s poised to shake up the league. But when Nick Ruben, a tenacious sports reporter who also happens to be the crush who ignored her all through high school, picks up the scent of a long-buried story, Rachel suddenly finds herself playing defense for the first time in years.
Nick usually doesn’t strike out with women, but his always-dependable charm isn’t getting him anywhere with Rachel or the interview he needs to save his job from his network’s impending layoffs. He knows he’s pressing hard, but she’s pushing back just as much—it’d almost be fun if his career wasn’t on the line. But after weeks of begging and finally striking a deal for an exclusive, Nick is surprised to realize he wants their relationship to be anything but professional. Now he has to figure out a way to save his job without hurting hers, and to make the girl he overlooked in high school believe he’s worth a shot at love.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2017
4 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Julia Blake
8 books20 followersJulia Blake is the bestselling, award-winning author of sexy contemporary romances about smart, sassy and the men who love them. Julia also writes historical romances under the name Julia Kelly. She picked up her first romance novel and the bad habit of reading well past her bedtime when she was thirteen. Years later, she decided to try writing books of her own and never looked back. An Emmy-nominated TV producer and recovering journalist, Julia has called Los Angeles, Iowa, New York, and England home. She never met a pair of stilettos she didn’t love and still stays up too late reading. Readers can visit JuliaKellyWrites.com to learn more about Julia and her books and sign up for her newsletter so they never miss a new release!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 31, 2017
I LOVED this book! More so than I thought I would in all honesty.
It was the perfect, fast-paced, steamy, and hot romantic read. I could not put it down and read it in the span of a couple of hours. I loved the main couple but most admirably, I loved the strength of the main female character. Too often it seems that a main female character in romance novels can be portrayed as "weak", "submissive", "whiny", etc. This was not the case in this novel. Rachel was a strong, independent, and sassy woman! Sometimes it could be debatable whether it was healthy for her lifestyle, but she stuck with her personality and morals even when a man entered into the story. It was amazing to read about and I don't find many books out there that I truly identify with the main character and respect her.
As for the romance, let me tell you, I don't think readers will be disappointed. This book was HOT from the very first chapter. I also liked how the relationship developed. I really liked the two main characters (in case you didn't notice).
Also, aside from the main characters, I liked the supporting characters in this novel. I liked the friendships between Rachel, Emma, and Louise. I liked Nathan and his loyalty. I was rooting for Kevin from the get go and his story was important and really tugged at the heartstrings. Honestly, name a character, I probably enjoyed their role in the story.
I definitely recommend this book to those who like romance novels or even those who enjoy novels with a strong female main character. Typically, I would see a title with sports integrated and I would have been put off but I really liked how sports related and was involved within this story. As I don't know anything about sports, I was worried that the story would lose my interest but that was not the case at all! In fact, I probably will look for more romance novels with sports integrated in the future as I really enjoyed that element.
I will definitely be keeping my eyes out for more in this series as well as more written by Julia Blake. I truly enjoyed her writing style as well as this novel as a whole.
**Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
It was the perfect, fast-paced, steamy, and hot romantic read. I could not put it down and read it in the span of a couple of hours. I loved the main couple but most admirably, I loved the strength of the main female character. Too often it seems that a main female character in romance novels can be portrayed as "weak", "submissive", "whiny", etc. This was not the case in this novel. Rachel was a strong, independent, and sassy woman! Sometimes it could be debatable whether it was healthy for her lifestyle, but she stuck with her personality and morals even when a man entered into the story. It was amazing to read about and I don't find many books out there that I truly identify with the main character and respect her.
As for the romance, let me tell you, I don't think readers will be disappointed. This book was HOT from the very first chapter. I also liked how the relationship developed. I really liked the two main characters (in case you didn't notice).
Also, aside from the main characters, I liked the supporting characters in this novel. I liked the friendships between Rachel, Emma, and Louise. I liked Nathan and his loyalty. I was rooting for Kevin from the get go and his story was important and really tugged at the heartstrings. Honestly, name a character, I probably enjoyed their role in the story.
I definitely recommend this book to those who like romance novels or even those who enjoy novels with a strong female main character. Typically, I would see a title with sports integrated and I would have been put off but I really liked how sports related and was involved within this story. As I don't know anything about sports, I was worried that the story would lose my interest but that was not the case at all! In fact, I probably will look for more romance novels with sports integrated in the future as I really enjoyed that element.
I will definitely be keeping my eyes out for more in this series as well as more written by Julia Blake. I truly enjoyed her writing style as well as this novel as a whole.
**Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
December 20, 2020
This was just what I like in a sport romance, in a romance in general. Fun, witty romance and characters that are entertaining to follow and a romance to swoon over. Never read anything by Julia Blake before but it's definitely an author I would keep my eye on!
August 11, 2017
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What an amazing start to a series! If you’re a lover of sports, and romance, then Changing the Play by Julia Blake is the book for you!
Rachel is the “It” girl in sports agents, she knows how to get the clients, and she’s fiercely protective of them. She takes care of her clients and she’s known for being ruthless in protecting them and getting them what they need. Her newest client, Kevin Loder, the soon to be breakout wide receiver in the NFL draft is a mystery to many people and Nick Ruben wants an exclusive interview. Problem is Nick and Rachel have history, and Rachel refuses to let anyone interview Keven before the draft is over.
Rachel and Nick are on opposite sides of the sports world, and both amazing at their jobs. Both want Kevin, and Nick is ruthless in what he will do to snag the interview, he needs it to save his job, and he wants to get close to Rachel as well. Rachel refuses to let Kevin do the interview but Nick squirms his way in and sparks fly between these two, but Rachel continues to try to protect Kevin as well as her heart. I loved watching Rachel try to resist Nick, especially knowing how she felt about him in high-school, but what she didn’t know was how he felt about her. Since we got to see Nick’s point of view in this book as well, we got to see his side of things as well which really helped develop this story as well. Nick was intimidated by Rachel way back then and is still intimidated by her now, but now, he’s not scared of her and is willing to do anything he can to finally get the girl he’s always wanted.
With their careers in their way, it’s difficult for both of them to turn off their jobs and allow them to explore the attraction they both have, but I was so happy when Nick finally wore Rachel down enough to agree to one date with him. The date he took her on? AMAZING and perfect for the two of them. Nick was relentless not only in his pursuit of his interview with Kevin, but more so in his pursuit of his relationship with Rachel. These two belong with one another, but it’s a long road for them to get to where they need to be. The fights, the missteps, the misunderstandings, the blowups all of the things that come up between these two make everything so much harder for the to find their happily ever after, but in the end it was definitely worth it.
The one character that really stood out to me in this book was Kevin though. I adored his character and everything he went through. Even though he was a secondary character in this book, the growth we got to see in his character in this book was amazing. When we got to finally see why Rachel was so protective of him my heart broke for him, and then seeing how he overcame it, and what he did to help Nick as well as himself overcome it was amazing. I loved Kevin and seeing how close he became with Rachel and Nick was beautiful. His parents were also amazing and brought humor into the story as well.
I have a feeling the rest of the series is going to be about Emma and Louise, Rachel’s friends and other agents in this book, and that makes me so happy, as they helped be the voice of reason to Rachel when she needed. Granted, they contradicted themselves many times, but they gave her the push she needed many times and were there for her when she needed them. Rachel and these girls are amazing and strong woman and are not push overs. Rachel didn’t go out looking for love, she’s strong, fierce, and takes no prisoners, and Nick was the perfect guy to balance her out. This was a beautifully written story that flowed perfectly and had amazing character development, and for a sports lover like me, had all the sports a girl could love! I can’t wait to see what else Julia Blake has in store for us in the Game Changer Series, because if it’s anything like Changing The Play, I can’t wait to read them!
I have received this book as a member of the XOXperts, XOXO After Dark’s official street team, in exchange for an honest review.
What an amazing start to a series! If you’re a lover of sports, and romance, then Changing the Play by Julia Blake is the book for you!
Rachel is the “It” girl in sports agents, she knows how to get the clients, and she’s fiercely protective of them. She takes care of her clients and she’s known for being ruthless in protecting them and getting them what they need. Her newest client, Kevin Loder, the soon to be breakout wide receiver in the NFL draft is a mystery to many people and Nick Ruben wants an exclusive interview. Problem is Nick and Rachel have history, and Rachel refuses to let anyone interview Keven before the draft is over.
Rachel and Nick are on opposite sides of the sports world, and both amazing at their jobs. Both want Kevin, and Nick is ruthless in what he will do to snag the interview, he needs it to save his job, and he wants to get close to Rachel as well. Rachel refuses to let Kevin do the interview but Nick squirms his way in and sparks fly between these two, but Rachel continues to try to protect Kevin as well as her heart. I loved watching Rachel try to resist Nick, especially knowing how she felt about him in high-school, but what she didn’t know was how he felt about her. Since we got to see Nick’s point of view in this book as well, we got to see his side of things as well which really helped develop this story as well. Nick was intimidated by Rachel way back then and is still intimidated by her now, but now, he’s not scared of her and is willing to do anything he can to finally get the girl he’s always wanted.
With their careers in their way, it’s difficult for both of them to turn off their jobs and allow them to explore the attraction they both have, but I was so happy when Nick finally wore Rachel down enough to agree to one date with him. The date he took her on? AMAZING and perfect for the two of them. Nick was relentless not only in his pursuit of his interview with Kevin, but more so in his pursuit of his relationship with Rachel. These two belong with one another, but it’s a long road for them to get to where they need to be. The fights, the missteps, the misunderstandings, the blowups all of the things that come up between these two make everything so much harder for the to find their happily ever after, but in the end it was definitely worth it.
The one character that really stood out to me in this book was Kevin though. I adored his character and everything he went through. Even though he was a secondary character in this book, the growth we got to see in his character in this book was amazing. When we got to finally see why Rachel was so protective of him my heart broke for him, and then seeing how he overcame it, and what he did to help Nick as well as himself overcome it was amazing. I loved Kevin and seeing how close he became with Rachel and Nick was beautiful. His parents were also amazing and brought humor into the story as well.
I have a feeling the rest of the series is going to be about Emma and Louise, Rachel’s friends and other agents in this book, and that makes me so happy, as they helped be the voice of reason to Rachel when she needed. Granted, they contradicted themselves many times, but they gave her the push she needed many times and were there for her when she needed them. Rachel and these girls are amazing and strong woman and are not push overs. Rachel didn’t go out looking for love, she’s strong, fierce, and takes no prisoners, and Nick was the perfect guy to balance her out. This was a beautifully written story that flowed perfectly and had amazing character development, and for a sports lover like me, had all the sports a girl could love! I can’t wait to see what else Julia Blake has in store for us in the Game Changer Series, because if it’s anything like Changing The Play, I can’t wait to read them!
I have received this book as a member of the XOXperts, XOXO After Dark’s official street team, in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2017
Wavering between 4 and 4.5 stars. Review coming soon.
October 13, 2017
Received and ARC for my fair review for netgalley. This is a story about second chances. Rachel had a crush on Nick when she was in high school, but he never even looked her way. Nick always liked Rachel but he thought that she would not give a guy like him a chance. Ten years later, Rachel is well known Sports Agent, and Nick needs a favor to save his job as a known journalist. They go head to head, all the while fighting their attraction, but not too well. They both know how disastrous a relationship can be for them, but what happens? And who wins? It is entertaining..
August 12, 2017
Julia Blake is a new author for me, but ‘Changing the Play’ ensures I’ll be coming back for more. The book captures the mad, competitive world of sports management and journalism perfectly, with such sharp, insightful writing that I knew that it was going to be a read I wouldn’t be able to forget. I loved the frenetic rush, the constant flurry of activity of the whole sports scene that was detailed and wholly engrossing—even though it isn’t quite my thing—as well as the conflict that was so very real when Rachel and Nick clashed.
Most of all though, Blake has written such a memorable heroine for whom I found myself cheering the whole way. There was everything to love about Rachel—her tenacity, her compassion for the players she managed and how she was able to call Nick out on the bullshit he piled on her as well as the strength that it took to say no to his charm offensive that was in many ways, professionally and personally insulting. I liked her protective instincts towards her players even when they’re idiots and her actions with Kevin made her a character who really deserved better than Nick who had everything to prove but didn’t.
In contrast, I was way less impressed by Nick as the selfish, entitled playboy journalist, who had really only sought Rachel out for his own purposes rather than wanting to do so because he wanted only her with no strings. Not only that made him hard to like, but I didn’t feel as though he wanted to date Rachel for herself—that seemed to come incidentally as his job had always been his first priority—even though he brought up the sob story of being an idiot in high school who never asked her out anyway. Somehow his actions and rationale(s) never stopped being questionable the whole time and those were pretty much the major blimps that prevented ‘Changing the Play’ from becoming an exceptional story for me.
*ARC by Netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
Most of all though, Blake has written such a memorable heroine for whom I found myself cheering the whole way. There was everything to love about Rachel—her tenacity, her compassion for the players she managed and how she was able to call Nick out on the bullshit he piled on her as well as the strength that it took to say no to his charm offensive that was in many ways, professionally and personally insulting. I liked her protective instincts towards her players even when they’re idiots and her actions with Kevin made her a character who really deserved better than Nick who had everything to prove but didn’t.
In contrast, I was way less impressed by Nick as the selfish, entitled playboy journalist, who had really only sought Rachel out for his own purposes rather than wanting to do so because he wanted only her with no strings. Not only that made him hard to like, but I didn’t feel as though he wanted to date Rachel for herself—that seemed to come incidentally as his job had always been his first priority—even though he brought up the sob story of being an idiot in high school who never asked her out anyway. Somehow his actions and rationale(s) never stopped being questionable the whole time and those were pretty much the major blimps that prevented ‘Changing the Play’ from becoming an exceptional story for me.
*ARC by Netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
September 13, 2017
This may be one of the best sports romances I've read (even though the two MCs are behind the scenes and not athletes).
Rachel's and Nick's relationship is a slow burn, done very well. She, an agent to the athletes, and he, a sportscaster, have plenty of obstacles to overcome including a past (high school peers) and conflicts of interests where their jobs are concerned. But all of this was perfectly balanced. It didn't feel angsty or juvenile. Blake does a good job at creating just enough conflict to keep the story going, but none of it is superfluous.
I love that Blake actually knew her sports. One of my biggest pet peeves in sports romances is that the sport itself is often used as a plot device or a way to make a character seem more attractive and then there is very little research or accuracy as far as the sport's concerned. But Blake had her references and sporting events down pat and it made for such a smoother read not getting caught up in errors.
I will warn that the book is sport heavy. Since both characters love sports and work in that field, a lot of talk revolves around it. But if you are a girl (or guy) who loves sports as well as romances, then I highly recommend this book.
Rachel's and Nick's relationship is a slow burn, done very well. She, an agent to the athletes, and he, a sportscaster, have plenty of obstacles to overcome including a past (high school peers) and conflicts of interests where their jobs are concerned. But all of this was perfectly balanced. It didn't feel angsty or juvenile. Blake does a good job at creating just enough conflict to keep the story going, but none of it is superfluous.
I love that Blake actually knew her sports. One of my biggest pet peeves in sports romances is that the sport itself is often used as a plot device or a way to make a character seem more attractive and then there is very little research or accuracy as far as the sport's concerned. But Blake had her references and sporting events down pat and it made for such a smoother read not getting caught up in errors.
I will warn that the book is sport heavy. Since both characters love sports and work in that field, a lot of talk revolves around it. But if you are a girl (or guy) who loves sports as well as romances, then I highly recommend this book.
August 29, 2017
Hach, ich hatte Lust auf eine schöne Romanze im Sportler-Milieu und wurde absolut nicht enttäuscht, auch wenn hier nicht unbedingt der Sport an sich im Mittelpunkt steht. Daher gibts die volle Punktzahl. Einfach richtiges Buch zur richtigen Zeit :)
***
Hach, I was looking for a sweet sport romance and I found it. I loved it, therefor 5 stars. Just the right book at the right time :)
***
Hach, I was looking for a sweet sport romance and I found it. I loved it, therefor 5 stars. Just the right book at the right time :)
August 15, 2017
Whoa...I was blown away by the exceptional writing by this new to me author. I was so engrossed in the story that before I knew it ended...was I ever disappointed...I would happily spend more time immersed in Nick and Rachel's lives. It has been a long time since I have read a story with characters who were so absolutely interesting and captivating.
Nick and Rachel's chemistry was explosive, but also had its moments of heartbreak. Ms Blake has created not only a story with a freshness and originality to it, but also one that is relatable as well as emotionally mesmerizing. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to escape into the captivating world of sports management, journalistic integrity, with romance thrown in for good measure...and with a dialogue that moves quickly, is whip smart along with wry banter.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Nick and Rachel's chemistry was explosive, but also had its moments of heartbreak. Ms Blake has created not only a story with a freshness and originality to it, but also one that is relatable as well as emotionally mesmerizing. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to escape into the captivating world of sports management, journalistic integrity, with romance thrown in for good measure...and with a dialogue that moves quickly, is whip smart along with wry banter.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
August 11, 2017
Professional athletes can bring in the big bucks, and they want someone who is very clever to help their careers advance. Rachel Pollard has been interested in sports since she was young, and becoming a manager for up-and-coming players is rewarding when she gets them a profitable deal. Though he had wanted to actually play a sport and not report on the action, Nick Ruben is happy with how his life has turned out working on TV. But when the paths of these two crosses after having not been in contact for years, the situation immediately becomes heated when none of their wishes are the same. The first book in the Game Changer series is about a sports agent repeatedly squaring off against a television reporter who is just as determined as she to get his objective accomplished. Julia Blake brings much realism to CHANGING THE PLAY because reactions are so candidly honest. I definitely felt the issues this couple faced could really happen, as the predicaments seemed so believable.
As the agent for numerous individuals who play professional sports, Rachel Pollard has a reputation for making certain the best interest of her clients is met as long as they follow her rules. When a reporter for a local NYC television station calls, she wonders about his reason. She remembers Nick Ruben from high school, and though she secretly liked him then, he will get no special treatment from her now because protecting her athletes is a priority.
When Rachel hears that Nick wants an interview with Kevin Loder, she firmly refuses. The NFL hopeful is a young man whose attention needs to stay on getting picked in the upcoming draft, and she is not letting anyone break his concentration. But Nick needs to do this interview, as it is imperative to his career. Yet he also soon wants Rachel to realize they could be good together if she will just give them a chance.
Since Rachel and Nick express their feelings during any challenging dilemma with such heartfelt sentiments, I quickly became caught up in their complicated relationship. Both are very confident when it comes to fulfilling their professional responsibilities, but they feel doubts when exploring the gradual change in how each think about the other. Though they did go to school together, their current awareness is that of an adult so their perception is much different. I liked how their feelings still need a big push because their way of thinking is usually poles apart, so it often takes some newly revealed insight to change their minds. Julia Blake knows when to make things easy for Rachel and Nick, but she also can throw in a struggle when least unexpected to increase the tension.
CHANGING THE PLAY is a fascinating entanglement of romance and sports. Much research must have been done by Julia Blake, as I felt as though any of the circumstances related to sports came across as very conceivable. Whether it had to do with being an agent or a reporter, her characters seemed to know exactly what needed to be done. Conflicts between these two professions could be numerous, and I thought each one imagined by the author was shrewdly written.
I voluntarily reviewed the book from the publisher via NetGalley, and all thoughts are my honest opinion
As the agent for numerous individuals who play professional sports, Rachel Pollard has a reputation for making certain the best interest of her clients is met as long as they follow her rules. When a reporter for a local NYC television station calls, she wonders about his reason. She remembers Nick Ruben from high school, and though she secretly liked him then, he will get no special treatment from her now because protecting her athletes is a priority.
When Rachel hears that Nick wants an interview with Kevin Loder, she firmly refuses. The NFL hopeful is a young man whose attention needs to stay on getting picked in the upcoming draft, and she is not letting anyone break his concentration. But Nick needs to do this interview, as it is imperative to his career. Yet he also soon wants Rachel to realize they could be good together if she will just give them a chance.
Since Rachel and Nick express their feelings during any challenging dilemma with such heartfelt sentiments, I quickly became caught up in their complicated relationship. Both are very confident when it comes to fulfilling their professional responsibilities, but they feel doubts when exploring the gradual change in how each think about the other. Though they did go to school together, their current awareness is that of an adult so their perception is much different. I liked how their feelings still need a big push because their way of thinking is usually poles apart, so it often takes some newly revealed insight to change their minds. Julia Blake knows when to make things easy for Rachel and Nick, but she also can throw in a struggle when least unexpected to increase the tension.
CHANGING THE PLAY is a fascinating entanglement of romance and sports. Much research must have been done by Julia Blake, as I felt as though any of the circumstances related to sports came across as very conceivable. Whether it had to do with being an agent or a reporter, her characters seemed to know exactly what needed to be done. Conflicts between these two professions could be numerous, and I thought each one imagined by the author was shrewdly written.
I voluntarily reviewed the book from the publisher via NetGalley, and all thoughts are my honest opinion
August 14, 2017
*** ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
Changing the Play by Julia Blake was a charming yet magnetic sports romance that I devoured in one sitting. Can a high powered sports agent and a journalist/anchor find a way to have a relationship but yet keep their personal/professional aspects separate or will they collide causing friction?
Two high school acquaintances reunite under false pretenses and preconceived notions, but when the truth settles and all the cards are on the table what’s left?
Nick Ruben has always had eyes for Rachel Pollard in high school, but back then he was the jock and she was the coaches brainy sidekick, no way for anything to happen then. Now, many years later, his job is in jeopardy and he’s in need of a juicy story… enter Rachel, the most in-demand sports agent in the country. Knowing that she represents one of the highest sought after NFL draftees for the season who hasn’t been interviewed, he knows there’s a story there and he is determined to get it, but to achieve it he must go through her.
Rachel knows it’s too good to be true that her old high school crush is calling upon her. She is not as naïve as some might assume in the business. She believes Nick is only reaching out to better his career even though he is laying on the charm, but deep down her crush feelings slowly start to surface. Is he the same as every man she dates these days… only wanting a story, a client? Or is he different? Can she learn to break down her walls to let Nick in, to allow comfort and to finally put a man before her career? Or will her career always be a priority?
“Her mind opened up to things that hadn’t seemed possible before.”
Even though this novel is considered a sports romance, I liked how it capitalized on the “behind the scenes” and not on the athlete part, showcasing the agents, journalists, newscasters roles in the sports realm. This was definitely a go-to book for me. Entertaining, great storyline, well written/detailed characters as well as the secondary characters, such as Kevin whom make this novel excel! I truly loved this book, the chemistry between the two was fantastic. Lots of push and pull at the beginning. Rachel is one tough cookie and I loved how Julie wrote her as a headstrong female in a male driven business. Way to go Julie!
5 Stars
Changing the Play by Julia Blake was a charming yet magnetic sports romance that I devoured in one sitting. Can a high powered sports agent and a journalist/anchor find a way to have a relationship but yet keep their personal/professional aspects separate or will they collide causing friction?
Two high school acquaintances reunite under false pretenses and preconceived notions, but when the truth settles and all the cards are on the table what’s left?
Nick Ruben has always had eyes for Rachel Pollard in high school, but back then he was the jock and she was the coaches brainy sidekick, no way for anything to happen then. Now, many years later, his job is in jeopardy and he’s in need of a juicy story… enter Rachel, the most in-demand sports agent in the country. Knowing that she represents one of the highest sought after NFL draftees for the season who hasn’t been interviewed, he knows there’s a story there and he is determined to get it, but to achieve it he must go through her.
Rachel knows it’s too good to be true that her old high school crush is calling upon her. She is not as naïve as some might assume in the business. She believes Nick is only reaching out to better his career even though he is laying on the charm, but deep down her crush feelings slowly start to surface. Is he the same as every man she dates these days… only wanting a story, a client? Or is he different? Can she learn to break down her walls to let Nick in, to allow comfort and to finally put a man before her career? Or will her career always be a priority?
“Her mind opened up to things that hadn’t seemed possible before.”
Even though this novel is considered a sports romance, I liked how it capitalized on the “behind the scenes” and not on the athlete part, showcasing the agents, journalists, newscasters roles in the sports realm. This was definitely a go-to book for me. Entertaining, great storyline, well written/detailed characters as well as the secondary characters, such as Kevin whom make this novel excel! I truly loved this book, the chemistry between the two was fantastic. Lots of push and pull at the beginning. Rachel is one tough cookie and I loved how Julie wrote her as a headstrong female in a male driven business. Way to go Julie!
5 Stars
August 13, 2017
Changing the Play is a reunion romance of sorts set in the Sports world. The heroine is a strong, independent woman who lives her life on her own terms in business, and in pleasure. Rachel is a sport agent dynamo who works for a not so pleasant boss, even though she brings in millions of dollars for the agency. She is on the fence whether she wants to open her own agency, especially if her newest client, a college senior gets first draft pick in the NFL. She is very protective of him, meaning no over the top media blitz, even interviews because of his past. But one such reporter may break through her defenses not only in getting an interview with her future star football player, but also her heart. He's Nick, sports reporter and ladies man who Rachel once had a bad crush on in high school.
Nick needs a big scoop, or there could be even more layoffs at his network, which could also include him. He thinks he has the solution in saving himself and his crew by scoring a one on one interview with Rachel's new client. But he hasn't spoken to Rachel since high school, even though he knows her reputation as a tough as nails agent. But Nick is tenacious and will try his best to convince Rachel to let him have his interview. He did admire Rachel back when they were teens, but all she seemed to care about was sports. He turns up the charm, bringing up their past together, which makes Rachel unamused. But he won't back down, and after some sneaky moves on his part, he succeeds. Soon he's appealing to Rachel in an entirely different way. He wants to make their relationship much more personal. Rachel hates to admit it, but her crush on Nick from long ago ramps up, and soon their working on their attraction behind closed doors, even though Nick could uncover some things about her wonderboy client that could ruin his football career even before it can begin.
Changing the Play is a great Sports Romance with two mature characters who want to make strides in their careers. Both love their jobs and the perks. Rachel comes across as more dimensional of the two. Her personality is more well rounded, whereas Nick is more of a cliché. But their chemistry is nicely written- leading to some hot and heavy love scenes.
Changing the Play is a contemporary romance done right with a main couple you can really connect to, especially Rachel, a heroine we can all admire.
Nick needs a big scoop, or there could be even more layoffs at his network, which could also include him. He thinks he has the solution in saving himself and his crew by scoring a one on one interview with Rachel's new client. But he hasn't spoken to Rachel since high school, even though he knows her reputation as a tough as nails agent. But Nick is tenacious and will try his best to convince Rachel to let him have his interview. He did admire Rachel back when they were teens, but all she seemed to care about was sports. He turns up the charm, bringing up their past together, which makes Rachel unamused. But he won't back down, and after some sneaky moves on his part, he succeeds. Soon he's appealing to Rachel in an entirely different way. He wants to make their relationship much more personal. Rachel hates to admit it, but her crush on Nick from long ago ramps up, and soon their working on their attraction behind closed doors, even though Nick could uncover some things about her wonderboy client that could ruin his football career even before it can begin.
Changing the Play is a great Sports Romance with two mature characters who want to make strides in their careers. Both love their jobs and the perks. Rachel comes across as more dimensional of the two. Her personality is more well rounded, whereas Nick is more of a cliché. But their chemistry is nicely written- leading to some hot and heavy love scenes.
Changing the Play is a contemporary romance done right with a main couple you can really connect to, especially Rachel, a heroine we can all admire.
September 12, 2017
3.5 stars
As a sports agent, Rachel Pollard is used to getting what she wants when it comes to her clients. With the NFL draft in the near future, she keeps turning down requests to interview her draft prospect client, Kevin Loder. When sports reporter Nick Ruben tries to land an interview with Kevin, Rachel is not too pleased. She doesn't want Nick uncovering a secret from Kevin's past and she hasn't forgotten that Nick ignored her back when they were high school classmates. Due to Kevin wanting to be interviewed, the two of them have to work together and soon the sparks fly. But will their careers get in the way of a potential romance?
I really loved that the author chose to have this book take place in the sports industry because it's not something you see too often in romance books. And it was also cool to have Rachel be one of the best sports agents in the country in what is definitely a male-dominated field. I liked the chemistry between Rachel and Nick and even though their story wrapped up at the end of the book it is obvious that the author could continue the series with Rachel's friends at the agency.
The only thing that I didn't really care for was Kevin's storyline.
I received a free ebook from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinions.
As a sports agent, Rachel Pollard is used to getting what she wants when it comes to her clients. With the NFL draft in the near future, she keeps turning down requests to interview her draft prospect client, Kevin Loder. When sports reporter Nick Ruben tries to land an interview with Kevin, Rachel is not too pleased. She doesn't want Nick uncovering a secret from Kevin's past and she hasn't forgotten that Nick ignored her back when they were high school classmates. Due to Kevin wanting to be interviewed, the two of them have to work together and soon the sparks fly. But will their careers get in the way of a potential romance?
I really loved that the author chose to have this book take place in the sports industry because it's not something you see too often in romance books. And it was also cool to have Rachel be one of the best sports agents in the country in what is definitely a male-dominated field. I liked the chemistry between Rachel and Nick and even though their story wrapped up at the end of the book it is obvious that the author could continue the series with Rachel's friends at the agency.
The only thing that I didn't really care for was Kevin's storyline.
I received a free ebook from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinions.
January 3, 2018
This was a new author for me, and I found I absolutely loved it! The book moved a little slowly at first, but it wasn't long before the two main characters meet and spark! They both knew each other in high school where Rachel was the nerdy sport stats girl, and Nick was the athletic star. Of course, neither knew they had any interest in each other back then. Nick has avoided Rachel since moving to NY trying to ensure he had his own career set from his own accomplishments as an interviewer on a Sports News show. Rachel was now a renowned sports agent. The two worlds do not work well together! Hence the conflicting emotions while both are falling further for each other. I found that I really enjoyed the smart, powerful character Rachel portrays. I was not thrilled that Nick initially contacts Rachel because he needs to use her to get an exclusive interview with a rookie nor that he somewhat exploits the rookie to lock in a job for himself and his crew.
I found that I wanted to learn more about Emma and Louise (Rachel's friends at the agency), but I am truly looking forward to another strong female who guides Nick - Erica. Erica works at the news stations with Nick and gives him strong advice in a no-nonsense manner! Can't wait to read more from Julia Blake!
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I found that I wanted to learn more about Emma and Louise (Rachel's friends at the agency), but I am truly looking forward to another strong female who guides Nick - Erica. Erica works at the news stations with Nick and gives him strong advice in a no-nonsense manner! Can't wait to read more from Julia Blake!
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 7, 2017
I honestly could not put this book down morning, noon, and night it was in my hands. I'm not usually big on romance novels. But Changing the Play was excellent. The story follows Rachel Pollar, a hardworking, independent, extremely busy sports agent who is so busy fighting for her place in a man's world that she doesn't have time for dating. That all changes when Nick Ruben walks into her life. Nick is a reporter and rival of Rachel, not to mention his reputation as a jock and playboy who seemingly showed no interest in Rachel during their high school years together. The two come together to do a story on Kevin Loder, one of Rachel's clients with a hidden secret waiting to be unearthed, and the rest is history. Reports and agents are known rivals in the sports industry and Rachel is very protective of her client and his past. Nick relentlessly persues her in an effort to receive a second chance with the one that got away. This story had a wonderful, quick-paced flow and focused more on the actual romance and characters than the sex, but the scenes included were very steamy. I was hooked a few chapters in.
August 28, 2017
Rachel and Nick have known each other for years, however they both may be in the sports world, they just haven't had any contact since they were in high school. Now Nick wants what rachel can provide, and exclusive. Having feelings for each other in high school without knowing leads to some chemistry now that Rachel is doing what she can to ignore.
It was good and I did enjoy it to a point. for some reason it felt like it dragged on a little bit, but otherwise i did enjoy it.
It was good and I did enjoy it to a point. for some reason it felt like it dragged on a little bit, but otherwise i did enjoy it.
October 5, 2017
I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway!!!
A sweet sports romance involving an agent and a reporter. Rachel is a strong powerful woman finding success in the male dominated world of sports agents and Nick is a successful sports reporter. As you can imagine this leads to conflict and a big blow up. The scene when Nick and Rachel first kiss was one the best written first kiss scenes i have read in a while!!!
A sweet sports romance involving an agent and a reporter. Rachel is a strong powerful woman finding success in the male dominated world of sports agents and Nick is a successful sports reporter. As you can imagine this leads to conflict and a big blow up. The scene when Nick and Rachel first kiss was one the best written first kiss scenes i have read in a while!!!
August 9, 2017
Changing the Play, is more than a romance novel. It's more a story about this super great sports agent who is trying to get the best draft pick for her client. Then there's this sports news reporter who needs a scoop in order to keep his job. Well sports agents and reporters don't mesh well. So Nick has an uphill journey to win Rachel over. He is up to the job though.
August 9, 2017
Changing the Play, is more than a romance novel. It's more a story about this super great sports agent who is trying to get the best draft pick for her client. Then there's this sports news reporter who needs a scoop in order to keep his job. Well sports agents and reporters don't mesh well. So Nick has an uphill journey to win Rachel over. He is up to the job though.
October 16, 2017
My rating would be 3.5 it was better then I thought it would be, but followed the story-line that I was expected. Romance centered novel revolving around a talented sports agent and her high school crush turned sports reporter. When Rachel's up and coming first round NFL draft pick grants an exclusive interview to a persistent reporter who happens to be her long ago dream guy. She must choose between protecting her client at all costs and loosing her heart.
August 13, 2017
Love that this was not a cliche love story, Rachel is a strong female lead, a woman in a traditionally mans world and her story and character is well written and doesn't fall into some of the usual things you see in romance novels. Julia is a new author for me, but I can't wait to read more!
September 25, 2017
I'm not typically a sports-themed romance reader, so I wasn't sure about this book. She's a sports agent, he's a sports journalist. Contemporary romance with a couple second chances. Steamy!
I received an advance e-version of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I received an advance e-version of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
August 24, 2017
Well written and enjoyable sports romance.
*ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review *
*ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review *
August 29, 2017
This really is a great book with some well thought out characters.
September 13, 2017
Thank you to Julia Blake and Goodreads.com I won this book in a Giveaway.
One of the best sports romances I've read this year, book flowed very well, story was great and it was a fast read !
One of the best sports romances I've read this year, book flowed very well, story was great and it was a fast read !
September 13, 2017
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
May 12, 2018
I stopped at 68%. I usually love these books. Maybe my mood affected it but I wasnt compelled to finish. I may try again in the future
September 5, 2018
3.5 stars
March 1, 2024
She forgave him too easily
September 26, 2025
This is a surprisingly good story.
Rachel and Nick are both mature partners with established careers.
Their story is a classical second-chance romance with a slightly predictable point of conflict, but the way the problem is solved shows the class of the storytelling.
Very enjoyable read.
Rachel and Nick are both mature partners with established careers.
Their story is a classical second-chance romance with a slightly predictable point of conflict, but the way the problem is solved shows the class of the storytelling.
Very enjoyable read.
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