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Men of Blaze #1
Personal Foul
USA Today bestselling author Brooke O'Brien brings the heat in this steamy romance about an NBA basketball player who puts everything on the line to be with his coach's daughter.
The stakes are high for Colson Rush. When he's traded to the Miami Blaze, his focus is one thing—winning a championship.
All that changes the moment he set his sights on Sydney Carr.
Sydney knows better than to mix business with pleasure. She's worked hard to land her dream job, working with her dad for the Miami Blaze, and she's not about to risk it all for the newest basketball recruit.
When Colson comes to her rescue to fight off a man trying to steal her purse, even she can't deny the sparks flying between them.
It's too bad she's his new coach's daughter.
Giving into the temptation will be one personal foul neither of them can back down from.
Personal Foul was previously featured in the Playing to Win Anthology and is now expanded to a full-length novel.
The stakes are high for Colson Rush. When he's traded to the Miami Blaze, his focus is one thing—winning a championship.
All that changes the moment he set his sights on Sydney Carr.
Sydney knows better than to mix business with pleasure. She's worked hard to land her dream job, working with her dad for the Miami Blaze, and she's not about to risk it all for the newest basketball recruit.
When Colson comes to her rescue to fight off a man trying to steal her purse, even she can't deny the sparks flying between them.
It's too bad she's his new coach's daughter.
Giving into the temptation will be one personal foul neither of them can back down from.
Personal Foul was previously featured in the Playing to Win Anthology and is now expanded to a full-length novel.
ebook
First published November 20, 2020
74 people are currently reading
476 people want to read
About the author
Brooke O'Brien
33 books1,676 followersClick the FOLLOW AUTHOR button to be notified of Brooke's new releases!
USA Today Bestselling author Brooke O'Brien writes steamy and swoon-worthy new adult romances. She's best known for her sports and rock star romances.
Brooke believes a love worth having is worth fighting for, and she brings this into her stories where her characters risk it all for love.
When she isn't writing or falling in love with a new book boyfriend, you can find her spending time with her family, cheering on her favorite sports teams, listening to ASMR, or binge-watching the latest true crime documentary. She loves rockin' a comfy hoodie with leggings and believes the best days include a good nap.
If you're new to Brooke and are wondering where to start, visit authorbrookeobrien.com/booksbybrooke and download the reading order guide.
Brooke loves connecting with readers and hopes you'll join her on her social pages or reader group to stay in touch.
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Brooke O'Brien is represented by Two Daisy Media. For all subsidiary rights, please contact Savannah Greenwell at info@twodaisy.com.
USA Today Bestselling author Brooke O'Brien writes steamy and swoon-worthy new adult romances. She's best known for her sports and rock star romances.
Brooke believes a love worth having is worth fighting for, and she brings this into her stories where her characters risk it all for love.
When she isn't writing or falling in love with a new book boyfriend, you can find her spending time with her family, cheering on her favorite sports teams, listening to ASMR, or binge-watching the latest true crime documentary. She loves rockin' a comfy hoodie with leggings and believes the best days include a good nap.
If you're new to Brooke and are wondering where to start, visit authorbrookeobrien.com/booksbybrooke and download the reading order guide.
Brooke loves connecting with readers and hopes you'll join her on her social pages or reader group to stay in touch.
Connect with Brooke:
www.authorbrookeobrien.com/follow
Facebook » facebook.com/authorbrookeo
Instagram » instagram.com/authorbrookeobrien
TikTok » tiktok.com/@authorbrookeobrien
Threads » threads.net/@authorbrookeobrien
Reader Group » facebook.com/groups/brookesbookbabes
Influencers, join my Hype Team » authorbrookeobrien.com/hype
Subscribe to Brooke's newsletter for updates on...
» Upcoming releases, sales, and pre-orders.
» Sneak peeks on cover reveals, excerpt, and teasers.
» Details on upcoming book signings and events
To sign up, visit: authorbrookeobrien.com/newsletter
Brooke O'Brien is represented by Two Daisy Media. For all subsidiary rights, please contact Savannah Greenwell at info@twodaisy.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
March 21, 2021
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It was a great book. Chemistry, emotions, the bonding between the two MCs was just enjoyable and my kindle felt like it could combust with their chemistry. Also their obstacles were discussed - of his career, of her career, what people would think, etc.
Overall a wonderful book and you should totally check it out.
-TMR
It was a great book. Chemistry, emotions, the bonding between the two MCs was just enjoyable and my kindle felt like it could combust with their chemistry. Also their obstacles were discussed - of his career, of her career, what people would think, etc.
Overall a wonderful book and you should totally check it out.
-TMR
December 17, 2020
A Fun Feel-good Emotional Story! Well-Written, Fast-paced & exhilarating❤.
I loved Colson & Sydney, DEVOURED this story in 4hrs.
(A Short version of this story was in the Playing to Win Anthology, Since then it's been Revised & Doubled in size.)
~This was my 2nd Full length book by Brooke & Once again she'd shown why I love her books!
Colson, a basketball player, is Hot, Sweet, witty, Kind..A catch!
Sydney is feisty, strong, independent.. Lovable!
Both had hard childhoods, giving them a deepness. I adored their Friends & Family!
Both are also new in Miami, work reasons. They meet when he saves her from an *almost* assault (omg!), Soon finding they're neighbors too. Bonding over Talks and their Chemistry...! Skyrocketing😍
She knows who He is, but He doesn't.
Then the next day he finds out that she's not only The coach's daughter but will also work there! What will this mean for them?
They're both Adults & Doing Nothing Wrong.
Gladly the romance doesn't stop, but it does slow down, becomes a secret.
She has walls Miles high. But through Bar, kisses, Care community, Make-out sessions, office hot looks.. He breaks them all. They Finally give into desire after his 1st game here! ~Their family dinner was sweet❤ (I loved her mom & dad!)
But as things start deepening, she pulls back (Won't he leave her too..Like everyone?)
He won't leave her, even as she pushes. He will fight for her, she's worth it. Always.
But..Will she give him the chance? OR Will 'they' always be a secret?
It was quite fun to see how everyone already suspected their relation! I was soo happy when they finally had the 'talk'❤. Their Relationship was Heartwarming & Lovable, feelings growing.
And Unlike in the anthology, the story doesn't end here. We see them settling in their Relation, Have dates, Future talks, fun & sexy times! Also how they grow close to Isaac, the kid they met in Community Care Center (He's so Sweet!).
But will a blast from the past (His Jealous Ex!) Break them?
~The Gala *wow*, Games & Misunderstandings, Being Away, No Secrets, Truth & Talks, Love Confessions *Yay!*, Happy times!
The ending was soo sweet! Loved that cameo by A Rebels Havoc. The epilogue was Gorgeous! So excited to see future stories for Colson's teammates!
P.s. Do read the Bonus Epilogue *Swoon* #Family #IsaacIsHere
If you love Sports Romances, This is a MUST Read.
**ARC Received for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub
I loved Colson & Sydney, DEVOURED this story in 4hrs.
(A Short version of this story was in the Playing to Win Anthology, Since then it's been Revised & Doubled in size.)
~This was my 2nd Full length book by Brooke & Once again she'd shown why I love her books!
Colson, a basketball player, is Hot, Sweet, witty, Kind..A catch!
Sydney is feisty, strong, independent.. Lovable!
Both had hard childhoods, giving them a deepness. I adored their Friends & Family!
Both are also new in Miami, work reasons. They meet when he saves her from an *almost* assault (omg!), Soon finding they're neighbors too. Bonding over Talks and their Chemistry...! Skyrocketing😍
She knows who He is, but He doesn't.
Then the next day he finds out that she's not only The coach's daughter but will also work there! What will this mean for them?
They're both Adults & Doing Nothing Wrong.
Gladly the romance doesn't stop, but it does slow down, becomes a secret.
She has walls Miles high. But through Bar, kisses, Care community, Make-out sessions, office hot looks.. He breaks them all. They Finally give into desire after his 1st game here! ~Their family dinner was sweet❤ (I loved her mom & dad!)
But as things start deepening, she pulls back (Won't he leave her too..Like everyone?)
He won't leave her, even as she pushes. He will fight for her, she's worth it. Always.
But..Will she give him the chance? OR Will 'they' always be a secret?
It was quite fun to see how everyone already suspected their relation! I was soo happy when they finally had the 'talk'❤. Their Relationship was Heartwarming & Lovable, feelings growing.
And Unlike in the anthology, the story doesn't end here. We see them settling in their Relation, Have dates, Future talks, fun & sexy times! Also how they grow close to Isaac, the kid they met in Community Care Center (He's so Sweet!).
But will a blast from the past (His Jealous Ex!) Break them?
~The Gala *wow*, Games & Misunderstandings, Being Away, No Secrets, Truth & Talks, Love Confessions *Yay!*, Happy times!
The ending was soo sweet! Loved that cameo by A Rebels Havoc. The epilogue was Gorgeous! So excited to see future stories for Colson's teammates!
P.s. Do read the Bonus Epilogue *Swoon* #Family #IsaacIsHere
If you love Sports Romances, This is a MUST Read.
**ARC Received for a Honest Review.**
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub
December 17, 2020
Original review
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Brooke O’Brien!
Personal Foul is the first book in the Men of Blaze series and tells the story of Sydney and Colson. This book was previously published as a short story and is now a full-length book.
So I recently read and reviewed the Playing To Win Anthology and I really liked Brooke O’Brien’s short story, Personal Foul. Then a bit later Brooke O’Brien announced that she was going to make the short story in a full-length book and I was so excited! I really loved the short story and now it’s longer? Hell yes!
"We have a no-trade clause, which means you’re stuck with me on your team. I’m your forever date now."
It was so nice to read about Sydney and Colson again. I really liked the characters in the short story, and they were even better in the full-length version. I loved getting to know them better and I love the new things Brooke O’Brien added to the story. Sydney is just such an amazing character, and Colson is such a cutie.
"You’re one personal foul I’ll never back down from."
Personal Foul was such a good and addictive read. It’s so fun to read about Sydney and Colson, they’re just so perfect for each other and it makes you smile. I really recommend Personal Foul if you’re looking for a quick and great Sports Romance read. PS: I also really liked the bonus epilogue!
December 18, 2020
Universal
Sydney has always had to work that much harder to prove herself in her male-dominated industry. So when the man who helped her fend off a mugger, the gorgeous man, turns out to be her team's newest player? Let's just say it absolutely cannot happen. But it will and it does because their chemistry is too intense to deny. But she's his coach's daughter and off-limits. What to do now?
Basketball is my favorite sport (#DubNation baby!!) and so often I find that sports romances ignore this sport, which bums me out, so when I hear of a basketball romance, I am so there. This one is pretty darn good - sweet, hot, and not too angsty even with the off-limits aspect. Sydney and Colson are soo good together, both sweethearts, and even better as a couple, and the storyline is fairly fast paced, entertaining, and all around a solid story.
ARC via author for an honest review.
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December 7, 2020
From the first page I knew this was going to be a good book. The way Colson and Sydney collided together was kismet. The chemistry was off the charts from the moment they met unexpectedly.
I'm not a fan of basketball but Brooke's words didn't make me feel like I needed to know the game to follow along. She weaved a brilliant story with sweetness and sexiness mixed in. I loved that Sydney wasn't a measly herione and Colson wasn't the overbearing hero. They were this perfect match.
I loved everything about this book from the beginning to end. Brooke was a new to me author but no more. I can't wait to devour more of her words.
I'm not a fan of basketball but Brooke's words didn't make me feel like I needed to know the game to follow along. She weaved a brilliant story with sweetness and sexiness mixed in. I loved that Sydney wasn't a measly herione and Colson wasn't the overbearing hero. They were this perfect match.
I loved everything about this book from the beginning to end. Brooke was a new to me author but no more. I can't wait to devour more of her words.
December 17, 2020
Would have given this more stars if possible!
Last night I received an ARC of Personal Foul and couldn’t put it down. I woke up this morning with a book hangover but it was definitely worth it! Colson and Sydney’s story is captivating and enticing. He’s been traded to a new NBA team and she’s starting a new job. A chance encounter with instant chemistry.
They have a few little issues to deal with, one being she’s his coaches daughter and she has abandonment issues. Colson is ready to take this personal foul head on and Sydney will discover what is is to be truly loved by someone who will stand by her.
Brooke O’Brien what a brilliantly beautiful story you have created. Thank you for sharing this heartwarming and sexy story with all of us! It definitely gave me a RUSH❤️❤️❤️
Last night I received an ARC of Personal Foul and couldn’t put it down. I woke up this morning with a book hangover but it was definitely worth it! Colson and Sydney’s story is captivating and enticing. He’s been traded to a new NBA team and she’s starting a new job. A chance encounter with instant chemistry.
They have a few little issues to deal with, one being she’s his coaches daughter and she has abandonment issues. Colson is ready to take this personal foul head on and Sydney will discover what is is to be truly loved by someone who will stand by her.
Brooke O’Brien what a brilliantly beautiful story you have created. Thank you for sharing this heartwarming and sexy story with all of us! It definitely gave me a RUSH❤️❤️❤️
December 6, 2020
Personal Foul was exactly what I needed on this chilly Sunday morning.
Colson and Sydney’s meet cute is an absolute swoonfest. It gives you an open window into the core of both of these characters. Colson is chivalrous, charming, and deliciously alpha. Sydney is fierce, bold, and strong, kind hearted on the outside but underneath there’s much more to her that she keeps locked up.
Colson and Sydney have an electrifying connection from the moment they meet. The way Colson saw into Sydney melted my heart. The emotional connection between them was intense as well but there were some walls to break down before these 2 got to their happily ever after.
Colson and Sydney made me feel like anything that had happened in their lives was what brought them together, they were meant to be. The smooth way they began sharing a witty banter exchange brought a smile to my face. The moments that had a more serious tone made my heart ache along with them.
Colson and Sydney’s story was a light hearted mix of instant chemistry, witty banter, feels, swoon, and steam.
Colson and Sydney’s meet cute is an absolute swoonfest. It gives you an open window into the core of both of these characters. Colson is chivalrous, charming, and deliciously alpha. Sydney is fierce, bold, and strong, kind hearted on the outside but underneath there’s much more to her that she keeps locked up.
Colson and Sydney have an electrifying connection from the moment they meet. The way Colson saw into Sydney melted my heart. The emotional connection between them was intense as well but there were some walls to break down before these 2 got to their happily ever after.
Colson and Sydney made me feel like anything that had happened in their lives was what brought them together, they were meant to be. The smooth way they began sharing a witty banter exchange brought a smile to my face. The moments that had a more serious tone made my heart ache along with them.
Colson and Sydney’s story was a light hearted mix of instant chemistry, witty banter, feels, swoon, and steam.
December 29, 2020
3.5 to 4 stars
”You have no idea how much I want you, how badly I need to feel you wrapped around me.”
On his arrival at his new home, Colson Rush rescues his beautiful neighbour from a mugger, never realising how his life is about to change. By the time he finds out who Sydney Carr is, he’s already pretty smitten. However, in spite of the blistering chemistry between them, Sydney is skittish about entering a relationship with Colson. She has her reasons but those reasons start to diminish when she realises no one else has an issue with it, least of all Colson.
”I love how my name sounds on your lips…I want to hear it every day for the rest of my life.”
So, overall, I enjoyed this story. I loved the connection between Colson and Sydney. They were both hard workers and wanted to do good in the world. Sydney totally blew hot and cold – often she was the initiator and then she’d completely back off. The one thing about this novel was that I felt there were missing bits of development in their relationship. I sort of missed the idea that Sydney really didn’t want to start anything with Colson. To me, it was never quite blatant enough, so I got a tiny bit confused when I realised that that was main crux of the story because she kind of blasted her way into his life at the beginning. Colson was patient with her but I totally understood his frustrations and I really felt for him at the way she dealt with him. When her affection for him was tested, I was disappointed that she assumed the worst when his actions toward her throughout spoke volumes. An engaging, sexy novel overall but just needed a little bit more development.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
”You have no idea how much I want you, how badly I need to feel you wrapped around me.”
On his arrival at his new home, Colson Rush rescues his beautiful neighbour from a mugger, never realising how his life is about to change. By the time he finds out who Sydney Carr is, he’s already pretty smitten. However, in spite of the blistering chemistry between them, Sydney is skittish about entering a relationship with Colson. She has her reasons but those reasons start to diminish when she realises no one else has an issue with it, least of all Colson.
”I love how my name sounds on your lips…I want to hear it every day for the rest of my life.”
So, overall, I enjoyed this story. I loved the connection between Colson and Sydney. They were both hard workers and wanted to do good in the world. Sydney totally blew hot and cold – often she was the initiator and then she’d completely back off. The one thing about this novel was that I felt there were missing bits of development in their relationship. I sort of missed the idea that Sydney really didn’t want to start anything with Colson. To me, it was never quite blatant enough, so I got a tiny bit confused when I realised that that was main crux of the story because she kind of blasted her way into his life at the beginning. Colson was patient with her but I totally understood his frustrations and I really felt for him at the way she dealt with him. When her affection for him was tested, I was disappointed that she assumed the worst when his actions toward her throughout spoke volumes. An engaging, sexy novel overall but just needed a little bit more development.
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-re...
December 7, 2020
Colson and Sydney‘s story is absolutely beautiful, hot and emotionally raw. The story starts out where these two meet under extraordinary circumstances. Instant sparks fly and their chemistry flew off the pages. Though they seem perfect for each other, they soon realize she is the coaches daughter, and he is a professional basketball player, on that team, the new Shooting Guard for Miami Blaze, to be specific.
Sydney realizing she is finally in her dream job states to Colson how nothing will get in her way to do the job she has always wanted. Colson can relate as he was hired to do one job for The Miami Blaze, WIN! But life sometimes puts you in certain places at a certain time, making fate intervene to bring you together. With that said, these two are extremely perfect for one another. Constantly people are trying to get in their way of being together, and with both having trust issues, they doubt their hearts way more than they should. So the real question is, will they give into themselves and enjoy their steamy relationship or will they ignore the heat and play by the rules???
Look out as Colson will easily be your next book boyfriend. And Sydney is a confident woman who values her job and is a hard worker. But despite this, Colson is utterly irresistible and will have your heart a flutter the entire book! This was an awesome story and an absolute must read! Brooke’s writing is phenomenal! If you love sports romance or romance novels in general, this is the book for you!!!
Sydney realizing she is finally in her dream job states to Colson how nothing will get in her way to do the job she has always wanted. Colson can relate as he was hired to do one job for The Miami Blaze, WIN! But life sometimes puts you in certain places at a certain time, making fate intervene to bring you together. With that said, these two are extremely perfect for one another. Constantly people are trying to get in their way of being together, and with both having trust issues, they doubt their hearts way more than they should. So the real question is, will they give into themselves and enjoy their steamy relationship or will they ignore the heat and play by the rules???
Look out as Colson will easily be your next book boyfriend. And Sydney is a confident woman who values her job and is a hard worker. But despite this, Colson is utterly irresistible and will have your heart a flutter the entire book! This was an awesome story and an absolute must read! Brooke’s writing is phenomenal! If you love sports romance or romance novels in general, this is the book for you!!!
December 18, 2020
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 STARS
This is a sweet romance that is a quick read! Colson swooped in and became Sydney's savior upon their first encounter and they automatically hit it off. I loved the connection between this couple. Personal Foul by Brooke O'Brien is a MUST read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ELITE!!!
This is a sweet romance that is a quick read! Colson swooped in and became Sydney's savior upon their first encounter and they automatically hit it off. I loved the connection between this couple. Personal Foul by Brooke O'Brien is a MUST read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ELITE!!!
December 16, 2020
It's a no from me, dog. The book was outlined weird, I really didn't dig Sydney, our heroine, and a couple times I got lost trying to figure out who was speaking because the dialogue jumped around so much.
I know it's not easy to write a book so I always try to be respectful of how hard authors work, and I honestly did like the idea behind the story: a new player on an NBA team falling for the coach's daughter. I also really did like Colson as a hero and a character, and some of the scenes were super steamy for sure which is always a good time, but the lack of communication (especially from Sydney) was just too much to overlook. Some of the writing was cheesy, there were too many continuity errors, and no matter how hard I tried to move past how critical I can be, or the immature dialogue and the weird drama for drama's sake, I just kept getting hung up on those things and it took me out of the moment every time.
I wanted to like this one, I really did. Forbidden sports romance? Yes, please! But it wasn't that at all. I felt lied to a little bit, and regardless of how good the (physically) intimate moments were between our characters, none of that made up for the lack of depth and development for the rest of the novel, making it kind of a let down.
Hey, at least the cover was perfection, right?
**Many thanks to Wildfire Marketing for my review copy**
I know it's not easy to write a book so I always try to be respectful of how hard authors work, and I honestly did like the idea behind the story: a new player on an NBA team falling for the coach's daughter. I also really did like Colson as a hero and a character, and some of the scenes were super steamy for sure which is always a good time, but the lack of communication (especially from Sydney) was just too much to overlook. Some of the writing was cheesy, there were too many continuity errors, and no matter how hard I tried to move past how critical I can be, or the immature dialogue and the weird drama for drama's sake, I just kept getting hung up on those things and it took me out of the moment every time.
I wanted to like this one, I really did. Forbidden sports romance? Yes, please! But it wasn't that at all. I felt lied to a little bit, and regardless of how good the (physically) intimate moments were between our characters, none of that made up for the lack of depth and development for the rest of the novel, making it kind of a let down.
Hey, at least the cover was perfection, right?
**Many thanks to Wildfire Marketing for my review copy**
Read
June 5, 2023★✩★ NOW AVAILABLE! ★✩★
Are you ready to feel the heat? Colson Rush is known for his hot hand as the leading scorer of the Miami Blaze, and he's ready to set your Kindle on fire!
❤️ P U R C H A S E ❤️
Grab your copy: books2read.com/personalfoul
WHAT TO EXPECT IN PERSONAL FOUL:
🏀 Sports/office romance
🏀 Steamy one night fling
🏀 Smooth talking basketball player
🏀 Smart and driven heroine, who also happens to be daughter of the head coach!
🏀 Total standalone
Are you ready to feel the heat? Colson Rush is known for his hot hand as the leading scorer of the Miami Blaze, and he's ready to set your Kindle on fire!
❤️ P U R C H A S E ❤️
Grab your copy: books2read.com/personalfoul
WHAT TO EXPECT IN PERSONAL FOUL:
🏀 Sports/office romance
🏀 Steamy one night fling
🏀 Smooth talking basketball player
🏀 Smart and driven heroine, who also happens to be daughter of the head coach!
🏀 Total standalone
December 17, 2020
Quick read that will leave you with a smile when you are done. Loved Colson and Sydney. They meet when he rescued her from being attacked by a mugger and the attraction and chemistry between them was instant and intense. Loved them together and it was so much fun watching them fall in love. Love stories that make you care about the characters and their happiness and this story does just that. Brooke just has a way to make you fall in love with the characters in each story she writes and i am all for it.
December 17, 2020
Brooke O’Brien is such a talented writer and every book of hers that I read I just fall in love with her writing all over again… it’s like discovering a new love each and every time with her books, however at least books can’t give you heartache unlike guys do. But anyways, I love how talented she is and that she always know what the readers want, but whilst she is writing for the readers, you can see just from her writing that she is writing from the heart. This book she did such a great job on and I loved the plot, the characters, everything just flowed right. Brooke is growing as an author with each book she writes and she is always improving with how she can make her books shine more, if anything she should be really proud of the journey she’s taken and where she is now because if she keeps doing what she does she will go really far in bookworld. I’m excited to see if she’ll add onto this by writing another book or possibly turning it into a series because I was hooked from the very first page and just couldn’t help but want more. I know this is a little different to her other books as this is a sports romance, but she’s put her own twist on it and I loved every minute of it.
I would recommend giving this a read as it’s well worth it, plus you may end up falling in love with a new author.
Sydney has had a rough life, but as she got older things changed for her and now she’s got a loving family and she’s about to start a new job and hoping to follow in her father’s footsteps one day. But the weekend before her life takes an unexpected turn, with nearly breaking her ankle because someone tries robbing her, she ends up meeting Rush (her saviour and new player for The Miami Blaze Organization) but the heat between them is undeniable… With him now living in the same building as her things are bound to get interesting, but after one night of passion how will things be when Rush finds out that she’s his Coaches’ daughter???? Will things continue as normal is their romance set to be over before it begins???
I would recommend giving this a read as it’s well worth it, plus you may end up falling in love with a new author.
Sydney has had a rough life, but as she got older things changed for her and now she’s got a loving family and she’s about to start a new job and hoping to follow in her father’s footsteps one day. But the weekend before her life takes an unexpected turn, with nearly breaking her ankle because someone tries robbing her, she ends up meeting Rush (her saviour and new player for The Miami Blaze Organization) but the heat between them is undeniable… With him now living in the same building as her things are bound to get interesting, but after one night of passion how will things be when Rush finds out that she’s his Coaches’ daughter???? Will things continue as normal is their romance set to be over before it begins???
December 17, 2020
What better way to discover a new author than to just delve into a book and see what she is about. As you can guess, Personal Foul (Men of Blaze Book 1) is my first story by Brooke O’Brien. Let me say, shame on ME! This story is heartwarming, fun, touching, funny and thought provoking.
Personal Foul was previously featured in the Playing to Win Anthology and is now expanded to a full-length novel. For those of you that got the abbreviated version of this story, ya might want to come aboard and get the full story. This one is hot and soo much more!
Watching Sydney show us the strong woman she is was wonderful. While her past may have been difficult, we see that it only prepped her to be able to handle the current situations she faces. Brooke definitely makes you feel the emotions in this character.
Watching Colson show what an Alpha male is about had me strutting my own chest out. Letting him bring you into his world and letting him show you what is special in his life will have many swooning. His ability to relate to so many people in our own day to day lives is noteworthy
Traveling with these two as they dance around all the obstacles in hopes of discovering what is in front of them is like a whirlwind. Yet seeing the softness as they realize how blessed they have it compared to others will have you smiling from ear to ear.
Brooke O'Brien I apologize for taking so long to start this adventure with you, but I am so glad to have started and plan to continue as you move forward. What a wonderful ending to a story I was captivated by from page one. Personal Foul is worth all the stars I can give and more.
Personal Foul was previously featured in the Playing to Win Anthology and is now expanded to a full-length novel. For those of you that got the abbreviated version of this story, ya might want to come aboard and get the full story. This one is hot and soo much more!
Watching Sydney show us the strong woman she is was wonderful. While her past may have been difficult, we see that it only prepped her to be able to handle the current situations she faces. Brooke definitely makes you feel the emotions in this character.
Watching Colson show what an Alpha male is about had me strutting my own chest out. Letting him bring you into his world and letting him show you what is special in his life will have many swooning. His ability to relate to so many people in our own day to day lives is noteworthy
Traveling with these two as they dance around all the obstacles in hopes of discovering what is in front of them is like a whirlwind. Yet seeing the softness as they realize how blessed they have it compared to others will have you smiling from ear to ear.
Brooke O'Brien I apologize for taking so long to start this adventure with you, but I am so glad to have started and plan to continue as you move forward. What a wonderful ending to a story I was captivated by from page one. Personal Foul is worth all the stars I can give and more.
December 17, 2020
I found Brooke on IG back in 2018 and I haven't regretted it since. Personal Foul is a obviously a sports romance but this one is a little different than others like it. It's not full of angst and the woe is me that I was honestly expecting. (thank you Brooke for that)
The hero, Colson is unfortunately traded from one team to another and having to cope with this and his move while trying to settle into a whole new life. His life is sort of upended by the heroine in a few different ways. Their first meeting is what you'd definitely call unexpected. But what he really doesn't expect her to be his new coaches daughter. He find her attractive and is drawn to her.
Sydney is also new to Miami and settling in with her new job with the team so meeting Colson is a startling surprise because it's not a good idea to have an entanglement with newest team member. But their attraction to one another won't allow her to forget him.
Making it with the coaches daughter will look bad on both of them, so there's some sneaking around. Some emotional entanglements from the past that could potentially get in the way of their budding romance.
The chemistry is spot on. But where there's flame there is also fire.
Either way you'll definitely be entertained by these two. There's no room for boredom. I recommend this book for someone looking for a lighter lesser angst filles book! I'll definitely be waiting on the rest of this series!
I want to thank Brooke O’Brien and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an ARC.
The hero, Colson is unfortunately traded from one team to another and having to cope with this and his move while trying to settle into a whole new life. His life is sort of upended by the heroine in a few different ways. Their first meeting is what you'd definitely call unexpected. But what he really doesn't expect her to be his new coaches daughter. He find her attractive and is drawn to her.
Sydney is also new to Miami and settling in with her new job with the team so meeting Colson is a startling surprise because it's not a good idea to have an entanglement with newest team member. But their attraction to one another won't allow her to forget him.
Making it with the coaches daughter will look bad on both of them, so there's some sneaking around. Some emotional entanglements from the past that could potentially get in the way of their budding romance.
The chemistry is spot on. But where there's flame there is also fire.
Either way you'll definitely be entertained by these two. There's no room for boredom. I recommend this book for someone looking for a lighter lesser angst filles book! I'll definitely be waiting on the rest of this series!
I want to thank Brooke O’Brien and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an ARC.
December 17, 2020
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed the story. Its about Sydney and Colson and they meet when he saves her from a mugger on his move in day. Turns out they are new neighbors and a few days later find out they also work at the same place.
Colson is a basketball player from Chicago who moves to Florida because he gets traded. Sydney is newly graduated and is now in charge of publicity for the same team. Her father is also Colson's new coach. Colson and Syd both are very attracted but Syd uses her father and her job to say they cant be together publicly and so on her end its a bit forbidden. However and this is what I adored about Colson, he doesn't care, he is an adult and no one is going to tell him who to be with.
The truth is Syd was a foster kid and so she is afraid to get close to anyone. Fostering/adopting is a huge theme in this story and is really the basis for what the issue with Syd and Colson being together.
This was a well written story and I loved Colson so much. Syd I felt a bit frustrated with as does Colson as she wants to be happy and loved but she has a hard time making that happen. Aside from that I loved this story.
This was my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed the story. Its about Sydney and Colson and they meet when he saves her from a mugger on his move in day. Turns out they are new neighbors and a few days later find out they also work at the same place.
Colson is a basketball player from Chicago who moves to Florida because he gets traded. Sydney is newly graduated and is now in charge of publicity for the same team. Her father is also Colson's new coach. Colson and Syd both are very attracted but Syd uses her father and her job to say they cant be together publicly and so on her end its a bit forbidden. However and this is what I adored about Colson, he doesn't care, he is an adult and no one is going to tell him who to be with.
The truth is Syd was a foster kid and so she is afraid to get close to anyone. Fostering/adopting is a huge theme in this story and is really the basis for what the issue with Syd and Colson being together.
This was a well written story and I loved Colson so much. Syd I felt a bit frustrated with as does Colson as she wants to be happy and loved but she has a hard time making that happen. Aside from that I loved this story.
December 12, 2020
Personal Foul was a great kick of to what promises to be a great new sports series! This one set in the world of Basket Ball which is a win win for me.
Sydney and Colson's story is fast paced sizzlingly hot sweet romance what I enjoyed about this book was Colson's determination to make Sydney see that they were meant for each other which wasn't an easy task as although Sydney is now the daughter of the coach of the Blaze team that wasn't her life for the first 14 years of it! Brought up in foster care pulled from one place to another trusting people is not easy for this sweet girl so treading carefully is a must.
Nearly traded Colson which he wasn't expecting Colson's one goal is to fit in and play the best basket ball of his life no distractions until coming to the rescue of the red haired beauty Sydney on his first day in his new town. Not knowing who she was only the instead attraction Colson felt that the gods where on his side when he found they were living in the same apartment building on the same floor!
Imagine his surprise when at work the next day he finds out exactly who Sydney is. As the two bound over the work that the club does with disadvantage children (Colson's life growing up wasn't easy either) which is close to Sydney's heart Colson just needs to convince Sydney they could be so good for each other.
Therein starts the cat and mouse game where there can only be one winner.
Sydney and Colson's story is fast paced sizzlingly hot sweet romance what I enjoyed about this book was Colson's determination to make Sydney see that they were meant for each other which wasn't an easy task as although Sydney is now the daughter of the coach of the Blaze team that wasn't her life for the first 14 years of it! Brought up in foster care pulled from one place to another trusting people is not easy for this sweet girl so treading carefully is a must.
Nearly traded Colson which he wasn't expecting Colson's one goal is to fit in and play the best basket ball of his life no distractions until coming to the rescue of the red haired beauty Sydney on his first day in his new town. Not knowing who she was only the instead attraction Colson felt that the gods where on his side when he found they were living in the same apartment building on the same floor!
Imagine his surprise when at work the next day he finds out exactly who Sydney is. As the two bound over the work that the club does with disadvantage children (Colson's life growing up wasn't easy either) which is close to Sydney's heart Colson just needs to convince Sydney they could be so good for each other.
Therein starts the cat and mouse game where there can only be one winner.
December 17, 2020
Colson Rush is new in town, having just been traded to the Miami Blaze basketball team. Sydney Carr recently started her new job with the organization. When they met on the street as Rush saved her from a purse snatcher, they had no idea who the other was. And when they figure it out, they decide they can be adult about it. But Sydney has a lot of baggage that she carries around from her childhood which makes it difficult to trust. When someone from Rush’s past puts doubts in her mind, my heart broke. They were made for each other. Similarly driven, undeniably successful. They knew what they wanted and when after it no holds barred.
Ms. O’Brien wrote a story with multidimensional characters who pulled at my heartstrings. I just wanted to wrap them both up in a hug and tell them that their pasts didn’t define them but made them warriors.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
Ms. O’Brien wrote a story with multidimensional characters who pulled at my heartstrings. I just wanted to wrap them both up in a hug and tell them that their pasts didn’t define them but made them warriors.
I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.
December 17, 2020
Colson is a professional basketball player who was recently moved to town after being traded. When he comes to the aid of a sexy stranger and finds out that they live in the same building he is looking forward to spending more time with her. Finding out that not only are they co-workers but that she is coach’s daughter is a complication he wasn’t expecting.
Sydney doesn’t want to do anything that could jeopardize her position with the basketball team or cause friction with her father or the other players. She knows that it would be in their best interests to stay away but that is easier said than done.
There is no denying the chemistry and connection between them but they both have pasts they must overcome. Colson knows that they belong together and he isn’t about to walk away despite whatever obstacles they may face.
Sydney doesn’t want to do anything that could jeopardize her position with the basketball team or cause friction with her father or the other players. She knows that it would be in their best interests to stay away but that is easier said than done.
There is no denying the chemistry and connection between them but they both have pasts they must overcome. Colson knows that they belong together and he isn’t about to walk away despite whatever obstacles they may face.
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December 14, 2020
I love sports romances and I haven’t read a ton of basketball romances, but I absolutely love Colson and Sydney!
These two characters had chemistry from the moment they meet. Colson and Sydney are bringing the heat to Miami and that connection leads to a one night stand.
Sydney is strong, independent and pretty fierce. You can’t help but love her. She does keep parts of her locked up behind some walls, but once those walls come down there is just more to love about her. Colson is kind, protective and the perfect type of alpha male. These two are perfect for each other and really balance each.
I love the lightness to their story and the banter between them. There is a little forbidden aspect to their story, as well. He is a player and she is the coaches daughter, but Colson isn’t afraid to take the chance on Sydney.
If you’re looking for a sports romance that is the perfect mixture of heat and sweet this one is a MUST READ!
These two characters had chemistry from the moment they meet. Colson and Sydney are bringing the heat to Miami and that connection leads to a one night stand.
Sydney is strong, independent and pretty fierce. You can’t help but love her. She does keep parts of her locked up behind some walls, but once those walls come down there is just more to love about her. Colson is kind, protective and the perfect type of alpha male. These two are perfect for each other and really balance each.
I love the lightness to their story and the banter between them. There is a little forbidden aspect to their story, as well. He is a player and she is the coaches daughter, but Colson isn’t afraid to take the chance on Sydney.
If you’re looking for a sports romance that is the perfect mixture of heat and sweet this one is a MUST READ!
December 16, 2020
Personal Foul starts with Colson making a superhero rescue of Sydney as she's being robbed. It sets the tone for this book. Sexy, patient, good guy Colson is an ideal match for Sydney. While she appears confident and in control, Sydney is hiding her constant uncertainty and trust issues because of her past. The two have instant chemistry. However, they realize that they could have far more than just lust and a good time. Are they willing to fight for more?
I enjoyed Personal Foul; it is an entertaining story. It was just the right mix of light-heartedness, emotional moments, hot chemistry, steamy scenes, and a compelling story.
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book. This voluntary review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion.
I enjoyed Personal Foul; it is an entertaining story. It was just the right mix of light-heartedness, emotional moments, hot chemistry, steamy scenes, and a compelling story.
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book. This voluntary review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion.
December 16, 2020
I wanted to love this one so much but sadly I just didn't. Sports romance is one of my favorite tropes and I love the whole coach's daughter thing. This was not what I was expecting, unfortunately. I did not like Sydney and felt she was super immature. While I did like Colson, he was not enough to make up for everything else. There were also a lot of things related to the whole basketball/NBA thing that were not correct or realistic. As a huge basketball/NBA fan, these things really bothered me. Overall, the male main character was great, it was pretty steamy, and it was a quick read.
December 19, 2020
What starts out as a chance encounter turns out to be something so much more. This story takes you on a roller coaster ride of fun, feels and sizzle! The connection between Sydney and Colson is stunning as they navigate some choppy waters with him being the teams new player and her being the coach’s daughter. The one thing I enjoyed about this story is the fluidity and how it all just went with the flow. It felt very seamless and made it that much more enjoyable. The wit and banter kept me on my toes as well as those hot moments. This is a great read and I highly recommend it!
December 9, 2020
In this steamy sports contemporary, it jumps right in with a high intensity meet-cute and I suppose when we find that they both work for the basketball team of the Miami Blaze, nothing else but a blazing attraction right out of the gate would surpass.
Sydney and Colson have an intense chemistry right from the get go and that doesn't lesson through the entire story. What begins as a one night stand, does change into a deeper relationship once they both realize they are working for the same team; Colson as a player and Sydney in administration. They agree they want to see more of each other, but neither want to jeopardize their career, so they agree to friends at first, until it deepens into more.
They do cool down their blazing chemistry as they actually try to get to know one another, which brings in some of the best part of the story. When they both spend time at a boys and girls club for a charity event and Colson connects with a young boy, Isaac, that part of the story brought tears to my eyes.
Overall, I enjoyed the low drama of this story. Yes, there was some, but it was light in comparison to others that drip and pour with angst. Colson Rush is just a decent, good guy and I liked him. Period. The end.
Sydney and Colson have an intense chemistry right from the get go and that doesn't lesson through the entire story. What begins as a one night stand, does change into a deeper relationship once they both realize they are working for the same team; Colson as a player and Sydney in administration. They agree they want to see more of each other, but neither want to jeopardize their career, so they agree to friends at first, until it deepens into more.
They do cool down their blazing chemistry as they actually try to get to know one another, which brings in some of the best part of the story. When they both spend time at a boys and girls club for a charity event and Colson connects with a young boy, Isaac, that part of the story brought tears to my eyes.
Overall, I enjoyed the low drama of this story. Yes, there was some, but it was light in comparison to others that drip and pour with angst. Colson Rush is just a decent, good guy and I liked him. Period. The end.
December 11, 2020
5 star review of Personal Foul (Men of Blaze #1) by Brooke O'Brien
Another new author to me and I have no idea how I have not read this author before. Meeting Sydney Carr under extreme circumstances Colson Rush is shocked to learn later that she is his new coach's daughter.
Having been recently traded , the last thing he needs to do is get involved with Sydney. He should be concentrating on his new team but the sparks that fly between them become impossible to ignore.
I fell hard and fast for Colson, he is most definitely an alpha, protective and totally swoon worthy. After rescuing Sydney from a mugger, he showed his strength of character. What will happen when they give in to the chemistry that sizzles between them? Their journey to a happily ever after will be complicated but it was a sweet, steamy and entertaining read.
Another new author to me and I have no idea how I have not read this author before. Meeting Sydney Carr under extreme circumstances Colson Rush is shocked to learn later that she is his new coach's daughter.
Having been recently traded , the last thing he needs to do is get involved with Sydney. He should be concentrating on his new team but the sparks that fly between them become impossible to ignore.
I fell hard and fast for Colson, he is most definitely an alpha, protective and totally swoon worthy. After rescuing Sydney from a mugger, he showed his strength of character. What will happen when they give in to the chemistry that sizzles between them? Their journey to a happily ever after will be complicated but it was a sweet, steamy and entertaining read.
December 19, 2020
Sydney is the coach of the basketball team's daughter and has worked hard for her job. Colson has just been traded to the team. The two meet when Colson fends off a mugger from Sydney. Sparks are instantaneous between them until they find out they both are dealing with the basketball team. A crazy, fun, thrill read.
December 16, 2020
I was very intrigued by this story and author, the book started out with a bang and it did not disappoint, I loved it!
December 18, 2020
Sydney and Colson meet when he saves her from a thief and the connection is instant and they enjoy each other’s company until they find out they work for the same team and decide friends might be best to avoid workplace gossip but there attraction to each other is more then they can handle.
December 24, 2020
"We have a no-trade clause, which means you're stuck with me on your team. I'm your forever date now."
Personal Foul is a workplace forbidden basketball romance in the Miami Blaze series.
On Colson's first day in Miami, he saves a fiery redhead, Sydney from a mugger and they can not deny the sparks between them. Realizing they live in the same building they start spending time together. When they find out that they work together and she is the coach's daughter, everything seems it is going to change, only they can not deny their connection.
Colson and Sydney were great for each other especially when they found out that their upbringings were not all that different. I really liked the parts at the community centre with Issac. There were times that I found the book to be a little slow but overall I enjoyed reading this book and the underlying message of never give up on your dreams. This was my first Brooke O'Brien novel and I plan on reading more by her and I am looking forward to seeing where the Miami Blaze series goes.
*arc generously provided in exchange for my honest review*
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