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Hook Shot

(Hoops #3)

Kennedy Ryan (Goodreads Author)

4.36 · Rating details · 5,430 ratings · 972 reviews

A deeply emotional standalone romance set in the worlds of professional basketball and high fashion.

Divorced. Single dad. Traded to a losing squad.
Cheated on, betrayed, exposed.
My perfect life blew up in my face and I'm still picking up the pieces.
The last thing I need is her.
A wildflower. A storm. A woman I can't resist.
Lotus DuPree is a kick to my gut and a wrench in ...more

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Published March 28th 2019

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· 5,430 ratings · 972 reviews

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Mar 25, 2019 Jessica (Angie & Jessica's Dreamy Reads) rated it it was amazing

Oh. My. Word.

I am REELING.

I am sitting here with my thoughts spinning, with my heart pounding, with my breath slowly returning to a normal rhythm. I am sitting here with absolutely no idea how to even BEGIN to put thoughts down about what I just experienced on these pages. I am sitting here in awe, in stunned silence, in utter disbelief as I reflect back on the MASTERPIECE that is Hook Shot. This book was nothing short of PHENOMENAL and I'm honest to God astonished over what I've just read.

Whe Oh. My. Word.

I am REELING.

I am sitting here with my thoughts spinning, with my heart pounding, with my breath slowly returning to a normal rhythm. I am sitting here with absolutely no idea how to even BEGIN to put thoughts down about what I just experienced on these pages. I am sitting here in awe, in stunned silence, in utter disbelief as I reflect back on the MASTERPIECE that is Hook Shot. This book was nothing short of PHENOMENAL and I'm honest to God astonished over what I've just read.

When I tell you that I DEVOURED this book, it's an understatement. I stayed up far later than I should have last night tearing through these pages. When I realized I needed to call it a night, this book haunted my dreams. It consumed my every waking thought in the moments I had to step away. I have never been so anxious to both finish a book and not finish a book all at once. The layering of this story, the masterful weaving of detail through these pages, the cultivation of the most MAGNIFICENT love story... this was honestly not only a TOP FAVORITE read of this year, but easily one of the most unforgettable, stunning stories I've ever read.

I can't get over Lotus' brokenness. I can't get over Kenan's infuriating divorce, how insane his ex wife was to lose a man like this. I can't get over how much he loves his daughter. I can't get over how devastating this story is at times. I can't get over the chemistry, the burn, the unrelenting attraction. I can't get over the PERFECTION of the dialogue. I can not get over the way Lotus' family history, the magic of her bloodline, is woven through this entire story. I can't get over how damn sexy this book was. I can not stop the highlight reel of unforgettable, soul searing scenes from replaying on a loop in my mind. I can't stop the ache in my heart from surging everytime I think back on these moments... SO MANY BEAUTIFUL MOMENTS. I can barely breathe when I think back on Kenan's notes, his words, his heart. I can not get over this journey, this road to forgiveness, to acceptance, to happiness. I can not get over the MAGIC, the ROMANCE, the heartache. I can not get over what a master storyteller and weaver of words Kennedy Ryan is. Truly, that is what has blown me away the most. Her words. Her prose. Her vibrant writing style and brilliant crafting of these characters that left me GOBSMACKED because I can't get over how unbelievably amazing it all felt. This book is on another level and I will not ever, ever get over it. ...more

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Mar 18, 2018 SueBee★bring me an alpha!★ marked it as to-read

Shelves: to-read-cr-stand-alone, to-read-contemporaries, zort-prep, series-ready-4-me-2-read, series-g-contemporaries, series-cr-stand-alone, next-2018, g-contemporaries, kindle, fangirling

IT’S LIVE!!!

Books in Hoops series are stand-alones:
Book 1: Long Shot
Book 2: Block Shot
Book 3: Hook Shot ...more

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Nov 11, 2019 Laura rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, amazing-heroines, sport-hottie, contemporary, book-boyfriends

I need someone like Kenan in my life. Everything about this book was perfect, and Lotus is my hero. ...more

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Mar 07, 2019 Kennedy Ryan rated it it was amazing · (Review from the author) · review of another edition

Coming March 28th!

A deeply emotional standalone romance set in the worlds of professional basketball and high fashion.

Divorced. Single dad. Traded to a losing squad.
Cheated on, betrayed, exposed.
My perfect life blew up in my face and I'm still picking up the pieces.
The last thing I need is her.
A wildflower. A storm. A woman I can't resist.
Lotus DuPree is a kick to my gut and a wrench in my plans
from the moment our eyes meet.
I promised myself I wouldn't trust a woman again,
but I've never wan ...more

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Mar 10, 2019 TJ *Book Twins Reviews* rated it it was amazing

Shelves: contemporary, favorites, arc-beta-or-proof, cover-love, 2019-top-faves, favorite-author

5 “Let me protect you” Stars

Books like Hook Shot are why I read. An author’s ability to pull me inside the world they’ve created is always impressive. What Kennedy Ryan achieves is something beyond that. I want to live in this world, be friends with these characters, hang out with them on the weekends. The main, as well as, secondary characters are bold and vibrant. The story is poignant and so damn beautiful my heart hurt. I’m still all up in my feelings.

What I loved most:
Lotus, hands down is o ...more

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Apr 03, 2019 Jessica ❥Chatterbooks Book Blog❥ rated it really liked it

Shelves: romance, contemporary

Lotus and Kenan are two characters that I've been curious about since Long Shot, so when their story finally landed on my kindle, I could barely contain my excitement. They were everything I knew they would be. Their relationship, like the author's writing, is absolutely beautiful. Emotion is present in every scene, and in true Kennedy Ryan fashion, the story addresses serious topics that are not sugarcoated in any way.

Twenty-five year old Lotus grew up on the bayou in Lousiana with her grandm Lotus and Kenan are two characters that I've been curious about since Long Shot, so when their story finally landed on my kindle, I could barely contain my excitement. They were everything I knew they would be. Their relationship, like the author's writing, is absolutely beautiful. Emotion is present in every scene, and in true Kennedy Ryan fashion, the story addresses serious topics that are not sugarcoated in any way.

Twenty-five year old Lotus grew up on the bayou in Lousiana with her grandmother, but now she is living her dream in the fashion industry of NYC.

Kenan is an LA man eleven years her senior with only a few years left of professional basketball until he retires.

Due to the fact that her cousin and his teammate are married, they've ran into each other a time or two in the past, and each time, something sparked between them that neither had ever felt before. With their lives on opposite coasts and their connection frightening Lotus more than she would ever admit, they never took their interactions any further.

That all changes when Kenan moves to New York to be near his daughter, Simone, in the off season. Almost as soon as he arrives, his agent asks him to meet with a fashion label regarding modeling a new line of watches at a party. Unaware that Lotus works for the label, he is less than thrilled about it... that is until he lays eyes on her. That party turns into a kiss. That kiss turns into a friendship, and that friendship turns into something neither of them were prepared for.

Hook Shot was one of my most anticipated reads of this year, and just as I predicted, it was another fantastic edition to the Hoops series. More than that, it reminded me why Kennedy Ryan is one of my unicorn authors. Not only is she a brilliant story teller, but her writing style is unlike any other. In all of her books, it's what stands out to me most, and this one was no exception. Each line is packed with so much emotion it's breathtaking at times. On more than a few occasions, I read sentences, sections of dialogue, or full paragraphs over again, because I wanted to make sure that I savored and appreciated them in the way they deserved.

If you're a fan of Kennedy Ryan's previous work and/or contemporary romance and phenomenal writing, this one's for you! ...more

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Mar 12, 2019 L.J. Shen rated it it was amazing

I loved, loved, LOVED every second of this book. It has everything I look for in romance. A kickass heroine, a beautifully damaged hero, complex family connections galore, steam, banter and backstory.

This story is tight, well-written and absolutely delicious.

Do not miss out on it.

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Jun 21, 2019 EmBibliophile rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 5-stars

5 ‘Button’ stars

"I have found the one whom my soul loves,” he quotes.

I devoured this book. There is something about Kennedy Ryan’s books that gets me completely hooked. She’s a brilliant author who writes a very poetic sensual realistic books. And this one was no exception.

"My beloved is mine and I am his,” I quote the song over a salty trail of tears, brokenly, truthfully. “Kenan, I’m yours.”

Kenan moves to New York to be near his daughter, Simone. He meets lotus, again, while meeting with a fa ...more

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Mar 07, 2019 Malene rated it it was amazing

Shelves: fav-author, if-i-could-rate-10-stars, favorites, part-of-a-series, arc, friends-to-lovers, sports-romance

I’m in a dream like state after finishing Hook Shot. Lotus and Kenan’s story pulled every emotion out of me. I’m spent, drained and so satisfied with their story which I have been anticipating for so long. Kennedy Ryan delivered and exceeded my expectations by a million. That says a lot.

Hook Shot is a delicious slow burn and oh the burn and heat is so damn good. Just simmering beneath the surface whenever Lotus and Kenan are around another. It’s intense, it’s tantalizing and so right for Lotus a I’m in a dream like state after finishing Hook Shot. Lotus and Kenan’s story pulled every emotion out of me. I’m spent, drained and so satisfied with their story which I have been anticipating for so long. Kennedy Ryan delivered and exceeded my expectations by a million. That says a lot.

Hook Shot is a delicious slow burn and oh the burn and heat is so damn good. Just simmering beneath the surface whenever Lotus and Kenan are around another. It’s intense, it’s tantalizing and so right for Lotus and Kenan’s story. A sensual dance between the two of them from start to finish.
Their relationship is a work in progress. Kennedy Ryan succeeds in making their connection and chemistry palpable and undeniable through the conversations Lotus and Kenan share. They get to know and learn about another through conversation and taking their time. Exploring and enjoying one another. It’s beautifully written and explored. Their evolvement from friends to lovers takes time and I treasured and savored every moment of it. Their relationship has to take its time because of the past trauma that Lotus has to deal with and Kenan also has his challenges in the form of an ex wife and their teenage daughter.

Lotus is a fantastic heroine. She knocked the wind right out of me. She exhibits strength, fierceness and grace. Truly a queen. Kenan. Oh my lord. The big and grumpy Gladiator with so much heart and vulnerability. His daughter is his world.
Lotus and Kenan are 2 unforgettable and memorable characters. They own Hook Shot. They make this story shine thanks to the magnificent prose and storytelling from Kennedy Ryan. Her words are out of this world. Liquid gold pouring off of my screen. Poetic and powerful in all its glory.

I’ve been in a Lotus and Kenan cocoon for the past couple of days while reading and it’s been a wonderful place to be. This is why I read. To escape. To be transported to another place. To feel and experience the power of written words. Hook Shot delivered on all accounts and so much more. I couldn’t ask for more.

6 PYT & Button Stars ...more

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Mar 29, 2019 Jenny••Steamy Reads Blog•• rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arc-to-review

Absolutely perfection. Not sure how I got so lucky, but I’m on a roll. Keep them coming

Need time to gather myself after this, blown away

...more

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Sep 03, 2019 Arini ~ Miss Casually Reading rated it it was amazing

Standalone Series

#1 Long Shot — 3.75 Stars
#2 Block Shot — 1.5 Stars
#3 Hook Shot — 4.5 Stars

I’m overflowed with emotions right now I feel like I might combust at any second. I’d gone from feeling completely moved by these two lovebirds’ enduring love, slightly spooked by Lotus’ voodoo instincts, to having ovaries exploding reaction whenever these two have even the briefest contact with one another.

Dimensional characters
I liked that Kenan isn’t the typical overwhelmingly cocky loud mou ...more

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Mar 28, 2019 Wendy'sThoughts rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Kennedy Ryan Fans, Romance

Recommended to Wendy'sThoughts by: Christy Baldwin

5 Song of Solomon Beauty Stars-
* * * * * Spoiler Free-4/12/2021-Congratulations, "Kennedy Ryan’s ‘Hoops,’ ‘All the King’s Men’ Acquired by Traveling Picture Show Company." Lucky Us, Seeing All The Characters In Action Soon. Variety Annoucement https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/kenn...
This Book...And This Author robbed me...
Robbed me of my sleep...
Robbed me of my tears...
Robbed me of my emotions...

But I gave them up...willingly because this story took something which could have been just strong a 5 Song of Solomon Beauty Stars-
* * * * * Spoiler Free-4/12/2021-Congratulations, "Kennedy Ryan’s ‘Hoops,’ ‘All the King’s Men’ Acquired by Traveling Picture Show Company." Lucky Us, Seeing All The Characters In Action Soon. Variety Annoucement https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/kenn...
This Book...And This Author robbed me...
Robbed me of my sleep...
Robbed me of my tears...
Robbed me of my emotions...

But I gave them up...willingly because this story took something which could have been just strong and good and made it spectacular.
I am still sleep-deprived and will try to make sense of it as best as I can. I am only going to give you my thoughts on this...as there are so many excellent reviews which will give you more. (My friend Christy's review alerted me to this book and I thank her for it.)

I just want to commend Ms. Kennedy who gave me the moments she did. I was able to feel every emotion, turmoil, conflict, and love this book presents. She gave me characters that were not compromised in any way. If there is something more than three dimensional, then she provided it. Every exchange, all of the dialogue and situations jumped off the page.

I was each character at some point...I was the one who was confused by the feelings I had for this man, fearing what could happen if I let go...But I also was a warrior able to fight for myself yet also appreciating having someone finally wanting to take care of me. I was him, knowing this woman was for me and needed to let her work through her pain...I was his daughter, confused about all the changes happening around me and wanting things to just go back to the way they were...

I feel this book is important because it addresses so much...and does it extremely well. It does it with care and truth. It presents many subjects in a way to allow readers to experience real-life experiences through these characters and grow from them. What makes this so special is it is done through a thoroughly engaging entertaining story.

Now don't think this is some heavy thing that has no humor or lustful, lovely sexy loving times...

Au contraire...
This story is one of The Most Romantic I Have Read, PERIOD.
So with that statement, I will leave you with this...

My beloved is mine and I am his.

So, here is my 2 cents. Do yourself a favor and read this book, it will change you for the better.

Long Shot (Hoops, #1)
Block Shot (Hoops, #2)
Holiday Hoops (Hoops, #2.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hook Shot (Hoops, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
What causes a reader to run and click on a book...
Well, the usual captivating blurb...
A cover that strikes the reader with a perfect image...
The strong rep of the author...
And a review from a valued friend...

As one of the weird ones who are not part of KU...
I put down my cash and clicked-clicked after reading Christy's Review...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

...more

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Jan 19, 2019 Jx PinkLady Reviews ♡ bookwormthoughts rated it it was amazing

Shelves: beta-read

It's LIVE

I read my first Kennedy Ryan Romance three years ago and in a sea of romance stories, hers was a standout for all the right reasons. I very quickly devoured her back catalogue, have read every book since, somehow becoming a beta reader along the way. Her attention to detail and passion for making the story the very best version of itself is outstanding. I have witnessed the development of this story into absolute pure perfection with outstanding depth of character and feel of emotion. A ...more

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Feb 04, 2019 Berry ♡ Nice rated it it was amazing

Shelves: sports-romance, deep-emotional

It is Poetic. Emotional. Thought Provoking. Deeply Beautiful. Unforgettable

5 Tell Me Your Truth ⭐'s

Kennedy Ryan gives us an intense, raw, romantic love story.
☆ With a hero that I not only want to *kiss/lick* but I respect and admire.
☆ With a heroine that is beautiful on the outside and even more beautiful in the inside. Her compassion built strong by her own experiences.

I have found the one whom my soul loves

I love that this author is not afraid to color outside the lines and continues ...more

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Mar 26, 2019 XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy rated it it was amazing

If you’ve read Ms. Ryan’s books before, then you know that there’s something magical about the way she crafts words together and makes them mean something. Makes them special. I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning devouring this book and experiencing the connection between Kenan and Lotus. My kindle app is full of quotes, many from this book alone, but out of respect for the journey I’m sure you’d enjoy I only leave you with these bits and my take on the experience.

”Blow my mind aga ...more

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Mar 13, 2019 Sentranced Jem rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arc-2019, sports-romance, romance

Title: Hook Shot (Hoops #3)
Author: Kennedy Ryan
Genre: Sports Romance, Contemporary

Finally!
I have been dying for Kenan and Lotus's story ever since Long Shot, which FYI was one of my favourite read for the year 2018.
I know it's still very early on but I can say with utmost confidence that Hook Shot is definitely going to be one of my favourites for the year 2019 🎉

From the very first book, there was this exotic, wild, untameable air of mystery about Lotus. She exuded this confiden ...more

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Mar 19, 2019 Emma Scott rated it it was amazing

“You hungry?” Amanda asks. She’d take a bite of me if I was down, which I’m not. I’ve had enough experience with man-eaters to last a lifetime. She’ll find someone else to devour. I’m sure any reasonably attractive millionaire will do.

I could spend all day quoting the most amazing, angsty, mind-blowing phrases from Kennedy Ryan's Hook Shot, but this simple passage (above) does all the work for me and it's not even in the blood and guts of the story. Hungry. Bite of me. Man-eaters. Devour. She w ...more

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Mar 23, 2019 Anna rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: reread-1st, poc-heroes, poc-heroines, favorite-books-of-2019

I knew it! I knew it from the first time I met Lotus and Keenan in Long Shot that they would blow my mind and be one of my favorite love stories ever.

AND I WAS SO FREAKING RIGHT!

Honestly there is so much I could say but for the sake of keeping this spoiler free and not give away too much I'm going to give you a series of random thoughts that will hopefully convey my fangirling and thoughts but not give too much:

1. Keenan and Lo have a sort of connection that you feel from the first page. I ser ...more

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Jan 09, 2019 Sarah rated it it was amazing

AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW

Kennedy Ryan slays my heart and my soul and my mind every single time she writes!

5 I Am Yours CROWNS

Hook Shot, unlike its predecessors, has a quiet power. Kenan and Lotus’s journey isn’t shocking, in your face, controversial in nature, but it is just as consuming, just as moving. The subtle way she brings them together, heals them, is powerful. Their story is a silent pulse under your skin, building slowly and sensually, exploding into full blown love and culminating AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW

Kennedy Ryan slays my heart and my soul and my mind every single time she writes!

5 I Am Yours CROWNS

Hook Shot, unlike its predecessors, has a quiet power. Kenan and Lotus’s journey isn’t shocking, in your face, controversial in nature, but it is just as consuming, just as moving. The subtle way she brings them together, heals them, is powerful. Their story is a silent pulse under your skin, building slowly and sensually, exploding into full blown love and culminating in romance that still made my heart flutter and shatter and my perceptions challenged and crafted into something new.

Lotus, like all Kennedy Ryan heroines, exemplifies the best qualities of femininity - independence, intelligence and bravery. While Lotus shares similar qualities with that of Ryan’s previous heroines, there is a peacefulness to her character, a quiet storm that blows in slaying the enemy when those she loves is threatened. Lotus is introspective, an observer. She believes fully in her faith and her upbringing with Mimi, refusing to be ashamed of who she is and where she comes from. Her quiet strength, though, speaks so loudly, she demands attention. Like any good characters, there are layers to Lotus. We get to see who she truly is with those she loves. Through her friends and Kenan and Iris, we get see a woman who feels and loves fully, who is funny and vibrant, who is complete. If you have read the previous standalones, then you know Lotus’s history, and if not, you will find out in Hook Shot, and it is not surprising that this experience has shaped her, affects her during her story, and ultimately forms who she is and becomes. It is this experience, though, and how it still affects her that puts her on the path to Kenan. This part of the story is where the readers truly get to see her fortitude and her ability to know herself and that there are many paths to healing. Her reflection, her decision to own her soul and body with no apologies, and her ability to love are her greatest attributes.

Kenan is so incredibly different than any other heroes Kennedy Ryan has created. He is an old soul in every way. And while he shares his reflective and introspective nature with Lotus, he uses his observation to close himself off to most. Through the course of the novel, Lotus tears his walls down, and we see a man who is disciplined and loves deeply, which we see most in their intimate moments. She draws out a side of him that is silly, adventurous, and sensual. Of course he has those characteristics that we love in a hero - that delicate balance between possession and freedom, and readers will absolutely swoon over this man who is as disciplined in his pursuit and love of Lotus as he is on the court.

Story writing is always where Kennedy Ryan shines. Her writing style and prose just makes a story more. I feel her words reach into my soul, twist me up and by the end of the novel, I am something new, something different. With her words, a kiss is more than a kiss, the intimacy between characters becomes transcendent, and her stories pulse with the vibrancy of life. I feel every moment, every joy, every heartbreak, every flash of anger and heat of passion. I LIVE with these characters, and I was consumed by the story or Lotus and Kenan because their love is unique and scary and healing. What readers will ultimately see, though, is that their journey shows that love, even with the most level-headed and observant characters can be consuming. Their love becomes an altar, a place of worship, not just with their bodies, but their minds and souls. Kennedy Ryan also excels and creating conflicts that organically stem from the characters she creates, the threads woven into the story from the beginning, developed and expanded upon with each chapter. It is organic and natural, and the resolution offers some type didactic offering for the public to ruminate on.

With every story, Kennedy Ryan makes me fall in love with her characters, their journey, and the romance of it all. It doesn’t seem to matter, though, who or what the story is about because her words and her story-telling are what truly make me fall in love with each and every book she writes. Her talent is truly unparalleled, her ability to make readers feel and think is her greatest gift.

Beta read ...more

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Apr 09, 2019 Diana rated it it was amazing

Shelves: turning-pages-buddy-read, all-time-favorites, favorites-of-2019

5++++++STARS

Hook Shot is book 3 in the Hoops series by Kennedy Ryan. Even though I haven’t read the first two book in the series, I was not lost at all and was able to read this as a standalone, and I am so glad I did. The writing was excellent and grabbed my attention from page 1. The story tugged at my heart strings and the love Kenan and Lotus had for each other, just took my breath away.

Kenan and Lotus have met before. They have been circling each other trying to deny the intense connection ...more

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Mar 28, 2019 Olga therebelreader rated it really liked it

Shelves: contemporary-romance, kindle, erotica-xxx, funny, sports-romance, arc-cc-final-review

I loved the story of Kenan and Lotus! Both are aware of their attraction to one another from the start, and both are determined not to follow through with it. But circumstances bring them together and it gets harder and harder to stay away from each other. The characters are easy to like and you find yourself routing for them to get together from the start. With its slow burn romance, tight plot, great pacing and wonderful characters this story is a definite keeper and I highly recommend it.

In ...more

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Mar 07, 2019 Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️ rated it it was amazing

5 “Magic” Stars

A DEEP, EMOTIONAL unveiling of second chance love for two characters who have been hurt in the past. Not the same type of hurt, but hurt that questions trust. So when there is a unnerving, intense connection that speaks to both hero and heroine, it eventually has to be addressed and unearthed. Hook Shot is a story of hope, an awakening of the soul, of learning to trust again and mostly, a magnificent love story.

Lotus Dupree is a spitfire. She beats to her own drum, she doesn’t care what anyone thinks, and she harbors an inner hurt that needs to be addressed. Kenan Ross is older, has a teenage daughter, and has suffered a public and humiliating divorce. He’s a baller and Lotus doesn’t fallow basketball except for the fact that her cousin is married to Kenan’s teammate. These two have met in the past and there has always been a spark but it just wasn’t their time.

This book is a slow burn. It’s a real courtship. It’s getting to know each other, becoming friends, and eventually lovers. But during all that courtship, Kenan and Lotus open up and begin to see that trusting the other is a possibility. But as with every relationship, there are complications that arise.....jobs, an ex-wife, a troubled daughter, an inner hurt that is unresolved, and the scary thought that maybe each have found their beloved.

This story is methodical and calculating in its storytelling. It flows with incredible ease. It’s a beautiful carefully constructed romance when there are issues of trust and a past traumatic experience . It shows that when two individuals feel something and work slowly to uncover those feelings, then the possibilities are endless. Communicating is the key to their relationship. They talk freely and do not hold back secrets. And while no relationship is perfect, Lotus and Kenan pretty much define what a true relationship should be.

I will say that this story runs the gambit of emotions. There is a past traumatic experience that does weigh heavily throughout the story and how sweeping it under the rug isn’t healthy in the long run. So while the story is emotional, it also makes you laugh, makes you cry, it’s flirty and fun and sorrowful and hurtful. The sexual tension is high and when the fireworks eventually happen, it’s sensual, passionate and comes from feelings of love and trust.

This author loves to peel back the layers with her characters and makes you feel everything. I love both Lotus and Keenan as well as all the parts that the secondary characters added to the story. The storytelling and prose makes this story beautiful, incredible, touching, and perfectly wonderful.

#NotToBeMissed #ABestOf2019 #KeLo

*advanced copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review* ...more

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Oct 29, 2018 The Book Bee rated it really liked it

REVIEW: 4.5 STARS
"I need simple, but I want you."

It's after reading books like this that I want to sit down with Kennedy Ryan and just talk to her; find out how she does it, where she draws her inspiration from. How does she write a book with so much vivid emotion? I want to explain to her how she affects me so much with her words. All the words she strings together effortlessly with a mere 26 letters. The smallest denominator in our language, and yet she wields them as if they have the stre REVIEW: 4.5 STARS
"I need simple, but I want you."

It's after reading books like this that I want to sit down with Kennedy Ryan and just talk to her; find out how she does it, where she draws her inspiration from. How does she write a book with so much vivid emotion? I want to explain to her how she affects me so much with her words. All the words she strings together effortlessly with a mere 26 letters. The smallest denominator in our language, and yet she wields them as if they have the strength of a sword. They are so powerful and so moving and I am one of her biggest fans.

There is such an abandon in her storytelling. It flows easily and confidently, and I love that!! I am in complete awe of her storytelling abilities, but I am equally in awe of her characters. They aren't weak. They aren't misguided. They are relatable and understandable, with a pain that is tangible, and an emotional connection that's tantalizing. I just want to know how she does it. It's almost like a subdued intensity. It's so subtle, but anxiety-pang-inducing. Kenan and Lotus have so much chemistry that is undeniably extraordinary. Undeniably. They have this type of connection that most can only dream about....a true soul mate.

"I have found the one whom my soul loves." Song of Solomon 3:4

Her words are so romantic and they bring out so much more than I could ever begin to describe. I love that Kennedy's books always transport me. She always gives me a love story worthy of my own emotions and reflection. But she also has a knack for stretching my thought processes, beyond my comfort level or understanding. This one tested me on a few different fronts, and while I wasn't completely comfortable with some parts, it was a captivating read that I could settle in and enjoy with wonder. There was a different tone to it that I haven't read in any of her others. It was sobering, sure - there were a lot of difficult times in this one, but there was an edgier feel to it. One from a world I know nothing of. Grittier, dirtier, bolder than anything I would know first hand - the city life, the culture, the vibe. It was just an all encompassing story in that aspect.

And to be perfectly honest, I am very shocked that I didn't highlight as much as I thought I would with this book. There was something different within these pages that bewitched me, sucked me right in, and I never really stopped reading to make notes or highlight much. I have loved these stories, starting with Long shot with August and Iris to Block Shot with Jared and Banner, and now I can add Hook Shot with Kenan and Lotus to that list. She hasn't given her characters an easy road in this series and I can appreciate each obstacles they all overcame within their own stories. Not easy by any means, because she writes about the kinds of things that aren't spoken freely of and I respect her and commend her for tackling these hard to broach subjects. Here I am, just a reader sitting on my couch, once again, put in place by her words - completely mesmerized.

Oh! And now I want to try étouffée....

"I was raised on hope and weaned on miracles so the exceptional feels familiar to me."
~BEE

AA Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/2HZVQWn

Enter here for your chance to win an ecopy: http://bit.ly/2HZTHtO ...more

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Mar 31, 2019 Melanie A. *mostly on hiatus* rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2019-favorites, ku, contemporary, lgbtq

5 STARS!

"No one has to tell a queen to wear her crown."

It's always a joy to read Kennedy Ryan's words! And Hook Shot was no exception.

Lotus Dupree has been avoiding Kenan Ross for years; there's just something about him that unnerves her deep inside. It's not a welcome sensation.

My senses pique and my skin prickles every time something lures his reluctant laughter out of hiding.

Over the years, every encounter Kenan has had with Lotus has left him wanting more. Unfortu ...more

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May 03, 2019 Lyn❤Loves❤Listening #AUDIOBOOKADDICT rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Recommended to Lyn❤Loves❤Listening #AUDIOBOOKADDICT by: Diana and Melanie's reviews

Shelves: mfr-sport, audio, favorite-hero, protective-hero, age-difference, size-difference, great-narrator-performance, friends-to-lovers, steamy, fierce-heroine

Audio - 4 stars!
Story - 5 STARS!!!!

Loved this book!! Adored both the H and h!! They were solid from the get go because …. COMMUNICATION!!!! No games, no misunderstandings!!

Both Lotus and Kenan had reasons to be gun shy about getting into a relationship, but their attraction couldn’t be denied. I loved the progression of their relationship. They were open and honest and took things slow. Nothing about the relationship was one sided. They were together even when they were apart. I loved these two ...more

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Jun 28, 2019 Holly rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, audiobook, 2019-read

I absolutely loved (and yet was horrified by) the previous book in this series. But this one bored me. There’s a bit of silly voodoo references, a stereotypical bitchy ex-wife, and a 14 year old daughter whom inexplicably needs a large amount of therapy for her parents’ divorce (my parents have never been divorced but I don’t think kids at that age are heavily invested in anyone but themselves - maybe that’s just me). Oh and I am not a prude when it comes to romance books but the sex scenes in t ...more

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Dec 22, 2019 Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: audio-book

Ahhh I love the strong quiet men. Kenan was just wonderful, as was Lotus. Loved their magical, deep connection. Hook Shot packs some angst, a lot of steam and emotions. Kennedy Ryan's writing and storytelling is totally spell-binding and captivating.

Jakobi Diem did a beautiful job with Kenan, Mia Ellis's performance was flat and she couldn't hold her own against Jakobi. There wasn't enough variation between the characters, especially the males ones and it was hard to tell the difference. ...more

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Mar 26, 2019 Renita McKinney rated it it was amazing

I am not quite sure where to start with this review, or even how to verbalize the emotional impact this story has on me. This was my first read of Kennedy Ryan, and no one should tear me down the way she did.

Hook Shot was nothing I expected and everything I wanted. I read for entertainment, but there are some books that become more than entertainment. There are some books that even surpass being a movie in your head. There are some that just encompass your life. That get into the depths of your I am not quite sure where to start with this review, or even how to verbalize the emotional impact this story has on me. This was my first read of Kennedy Ryan, and no one should tear me down the way she did.

Hook Shot was nothing I expected and everything I wanted. I read for entertainment, but there are some books that become more than entertainment. There are some books that even surpass being a movie in your head. There are some that just encompass your life. That get into the depths of your psyche and become a part of you. You are not on the outside looking in. You are not deciphering words in your head. You are living the narrative with each word you peruse.

Lotus is damaged but strong. She’s lost but searching. She’s empty but fulfilled. The circumstances that tossed her into the tailspin of her life have haunted her for years. Yet, within that haunting was the idea that if I forget, if I ignore, if I don’t address it I’ll be ok. Until she’s not ok.

Kenan is not typical. He does not fall under the idea of who people think he should be. He’s bitter, angry and disgusted. He’s dedicated, passionate and loving. But within all those conflicts of feelings, he’s a father and that relationship supersedes every other negative aspect he feels.

The journey of Lotus and Kenan is told with realism. It wasn’t sugarcoated or turned into a sweet romance. The honesty in which this story is told is filled with the reality of life, the ugly of relationships, the pain of trust broken, the failure of belief, the terror of family and the gift of Solomon. The depth she applies to her characters is astonishing, the buildup of the story is amazing, and the culmination of every aspect is a true testament to her talent. This book houses the words that masterpieces are made of.

“I have found the one whom my soul loves” – Kenan
“My beloved is mine and I am his” – Lotus

I cried. I laughed. I cringed. I got angry. I cheered. I prayed. I sighed. I walked away. I slammed my kindle. I came back.

I am not sure where Kennedy had to go in her head to pen such an emotional tale of heartbreak, love, danger and healing, but I’m glad she did. What I love about her is she marches to the beat of a different drummer, she does not follow the path of the norm. She takes us down a trek that is not always pretty, she doesn’t give us fantasy. She gives us all.

One hundred twenty-two thousand words, four hundred eight pages, twenty-six letters, and undeniable talent . . . all makes for my favorite read of 2019 to date. ...more

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Apr 01, 2019 Elle Kennedy added it

HOOK SHOTS is LIVE!!!

Enter the Giveaway: http://bit.ly/HSReleaseGive

𝘼 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙛𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙜𝙝 𝙛𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙤𝙣.

𝘿𝙞𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙙. 𝙎𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙙. 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙦𝙪𝙖𝙙.
Cheated on, betrayed, exposed.
My perfect life blew up in my face and I'm still picking up the pieces.
The last thing I need is 𝘩𝘦𝘳.
A wildflower. A storm. A woman I can't resist.
Lotus DuPree is a kick to my gut and a wrench in my plans from the moment our eyes meet.
I promised myself I ...more

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Apr 05, 2019 Radd Reader rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: bbf-book-boyfriend, abuse-or-rape-victim, buddy-group-assigned-challenge, kindle-unlimited, favorite-author, sports, bff-book-best-friend, favorites, famous-royalty-other, emotional

"I have found the one whom my soul loves. My beloved is mine, and I am his." ❤️❤️

This book is sooooo awesome and brings all the feels. And.......Kenan Ross!! My new BBF!! ❣ And......Lotus DuPree. She just might qualify for Book Girlfriend. Is there such a thing? Lol.
Oh, I know....she can also be my BBF (Book Best Friend) 😁
This book is the full package!!!

Characters
Kenan (36, a professional athlete-NBA): Besides being mega famous due to his NBA career, Kenan is an introvert. He likes a low-ke ...more

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