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Tennessee U #2
Fumbled Hearts
Can a fumbled heart achieve a true love touchdown?
Ethan
My dream is to become a lawyer, but since starting college, life has been one financial nightmare after another.
Thanks to a partial scholarship, I’m well on my way, and I take any odd jobs I can find to pay the remaining tuition. Tutoring a jock in a subject I aced seems like easy money.
Until I meet Maddox.
He challenges me at every turn and stirs up feelings I shouldn't have for a straight guy.
The football star will never be interested in me.
Still, I can't get him out of my head...
Maddox
If I don't get my grades up, I’ll be benched for the season and miss my chance to be noticed by pro scouts.
That’s not an option. I have to get drafted - it was my twin brother's dream, and this is the only way to honor his legacy and make up for what I did to him.
Being tutored by Ethan was supposed to be a means to an end.
Nothing more.
But he sees me in ways no one else ever has.
I'm not worthy of love.
Yet something within me has awakened, longing to be worthy... of him.
Fumbled Hearts is a bi-awakening, opposites attract MM romance. It is book 2 of the Tennessee U series. It features a college football star, his literary hero living a secret life, and a group of meddling friends.
Tropes: hurt/comfort, bi-awakening, opposites attract, mental health rep, jock/nerd, size difference
A happily ever after ending is guaranteed.
This book contains topics that may be disturbing for some readers. Please pay attention to the content warnings found at the beginning of the book and exercise caution when reading.
Ethan
My dream is to become a lawyer, but since starting college, life has been one financial nightmare after another.
Thanks to a partial scholarship, I’m well on my way, and I take any odd jobs I can find to pay the remaining tuition. Tutoring a jock in a subject I aced seems like easy money.
Until I meet Maddox.
He challenges me at every turn and stirs up feelings I shouldn't have for a straight guy.
The football star will never be interested in me.
Still, I can't get him out of my head...
Maddox
If I don't get my grades up, I’ll be benched for the season and miss my chance to be noticed by pro scouts.
That’s not an option. I have to get drafted - it was my twin brother's dream, and this is the only way to honor his legacy and make up for what I did to him.
Being tutored by Ethan was supposed to be a means to an end.
Nothing more.
But he sees me in ways no one else ever has.
I'm not worthy of love.
Yet something within me has awakened, longing to be worthy... of him.
Fumbled Hearts is a bi-awakening, opposites attract MM romance. It is book 2 of the Tennessee U series. It features a college football star, his literary hero living a secret life, and a group of meddling friends.
Tropes: hurt/comfort, bi-awakening, opposites attract, mental health rep, jock/nerd, size difference
A happily ever after ending is guaranteed.
This book contains topics that may be disturbing for some readers. Please pay attention to the content warnings found at the beginning of the book and exercise caution when reading.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2023
63 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
July 3, 2023
3.75 stars, rounded up
- sports
- size difference
- opposites attract
- bi awakening
- jock x nerd
- hurt x comfort
Desperately in need of some money to cover his tuition and unwilling to ask his parents for more help, Ethan stumbles across an ad in search of an English Lit tutor for none other than the university’s star quarterback, Maddox. If Maddox doesn’t get his GPA up asap he’ll be benched, and despite their differences, Ethan really can’t turn down the easy money.
Working with Maddox isn’t easy though, and things start off incredibly rocky between the two, but spending more time with the QB opens Ethan’s eyes to the struggle and constant emotional pain Maddox suffers through. Being around Ethan helped Maddox with more than just his grades though, and I loved when they finally opened up to each other about everything going on even if it took a while for Maddox to accept help.
Much like Saving West, I could not put Fumbled Hearts down. It instantly sucked me in, and has me rooting for these two from the start. I will say that Mad’s foot fetish/nail polish thing was unexpected though 🤣 but overall I really enjoyed this and look forward to more of this series!
- sports
- size difference
- opposites attract
- bi awakening
- jock x nerd
- hurt x comfort
Desperately in need of some money to cover his tuition and unwilling to ask his parents for more help, Ethan stumbles across an ad in search of an English Lit tutor for none other than the university’s star quarterback, Maddox. If Maddox doesn’t get his GPA up asap he’ll be benched, and despite their differences, Ethan really can’t turn down the easy money.
Working with Maddox isn’t easy though, and things start off incredibly rocky between the two, but spending more time with the QB opens Ethan’s eyes to the struggle and constant emotional pain Maddox suffers through. Being around Ethan helped Maddox with more than just his grades though, and I loved when they finally opened up to each other about everything going on even if it took a while for Maddox to accept help.
Much like Saving West, I could not put Fumbled Hearts down. It instantly sucked me in, and has me rooting for these two from the start. I will say that Mad’s foot fetish/nail polish thing was unexpected though 🤣 but overall I really enjoyed this and look forward to more of this series!
July 10, 2023
This is book 2 in the Tennessee U series, we get to see Maddox a football player and Ethan an aspiring lawyer, work though hard times and be each others safe space.
Ethan is struggling, he only has a part of a scholarship so he has to work to cover the rest of his fees, but his jobs are just not cutting it. When he gets a big school bill he knows he needs to do something else that pays, which leads him to getting a job in a strip club, but even that’s not enough so he posts to help tutor students in English lit. He wasn’t expecting the hot shot football jock to be the one needing help!
Maddox was struggling too, he’d lost his twin brother and blamed himself, he thought he had things handled but when his coach lets him know his grades have fallen and he can’t play football he seeks out a tutor. The small guy with the pretty toe nails soon becomes something more than his teacher!
This book was great, it had some tough subjects to deal with, It could have had a bit more detail in places, sometimes I felt their connection but sometimes it just wasn’t there. Saving west was book 1 and it was amazing, this one was just missing something for me. But I still recommend you to read it.
Content warning in the book read if your sensitive
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
💚Bi-awakening
💚Hurt/Comfort
💚Opposites attract
💚Size difference
💚Jock/Nerd
💚Mental health rep
Ethan is struggling, he only has a part of a scholarship so he has to work to cover the rest of his fees, but his jobs are just not cutting it. When he gets a big school bill he knows he needs to do something else that pays, which leads him to getting a job in a strip club, but even that’s not enough so he posts to help tutor students in English lit. He wasn’t expecting the hot shot football jock to be the one needing help!
Maddox was struggling too, he’d lost his twin brother and blamed himself, he thought he had things handled but when his coach lets him know his grades have fallen and he can’t play football he seeks out a tutor. The small guy with the pretty toe nails soon becomes something more than his teacher!
This book was great, it had some tough subjects to deal with, It could have had a bit more detail in places, sometimes I felt their connection but sometimes it just wasn’t there. Saving west was book 1 and it was amazing, this one was just missing something for me. But I still recommend you to read it.
Content warning in the book read if your sensitive
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
💚Bi-awakening
💚Hurt/Comfort
💚Opposites attract
💚Size difference
💚Jock/Nerd
💚Mental health rep
July 12, 2023
This was a very sweet and enjoyable read with two MCs that very well portrayed with a background plot full of regrets and past traumas, but also with so much love and hope.
The story has a slow start but it's ok because the author gets to show the reader the lives of both MCs before they meet. Ethan is truly struggling to make enough money to pay for tuition and every day expenses. At the same time Maddox is struggling to pass his English Lit class, he decides to look for a tutor and that's how they meet. It was beautiful to see how they got to know each other and become friends. They were so cute together, although sometimes I found it hard to feel the chemistry between the two, but most of the time they were great and understood each other so well.
I loved how the author talks about Maddox's situation, his guilt over the accident that killed his brother and his problem with alcohol. He is overwhelmed by the anxiety he suffers and the pressure he's put on himself to honour the memory of his brother. It felt real and it was very emotional to read about it. Also, Ethan's money problems were true to life as there are many students who can pay for university in the US.
I liked this book although I would've liked to get more moments of both the MCs together and sometimes it felt like the information I was reading didn't contribute much to the story, but it was well written and emotions perfectly depicted. It was a lovely and sweet college romance that I enjoyed very much.
The story has a slow start but it's ok because the author gets to show the reader the lives of both MCs before they meet. Ethan is truly struggling to make enough money to pay for tuition and every day expenses. At the same time Maddox is struggling to pass his English Lit class, he decides to look for a tutor and that's how they meet. It was beautiful to see how they got to know each other and become friends. They were so cute together, although sometimes I found it hard to feel the chemistry between the two, but most of the time they were great and understood each other so well.
I loved how the author talks about Maddox's situation, his guilt over the accident that killed his brother and his problem with alcohol. He is overwhelmed by the anxiety he suffers and the pressure he's put on himself to honour the memory of his brother. It felt real and it was very emotional to read about it. Also, Ethan's money problems were true to life as there are many students who can pay for university in the US.
I liked this book although I would've liked to get more moments of both the MCs together and sometimes it felt like the information I was reading didn't contribute much to the story, but it was well written and emotions perfectly depicted. It was a lovely and sweet college romance that I enjoyed very much.
July 9, 2023
𝑭𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔 𝒃𝒚 𝑫𝒆𝒏𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒘
𝔼𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕟 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕄𝕒𝕕𝕕𝕠𝕩
« I like the person I become when I'm around him, a softer person. »
x ᴍᴍ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
x ʜᴜʀᴛ/ᴄᴏᴍꜰᴏʀᴛ
x ʙɪ ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇɴɪɴɢ
x ᴏᴘᴘᴏꜱɪᴛᴇꜱ ᴀᴛᴛʀᴀᴄᴛ
x ꜱɪᴢᴇ ᴅɪꜰꜰᴇʀᴇɴᴄᴇ
x ʜᴇᴀ
Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Steam: 3/5 🔥
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
Having absolutely loved the first book, I was hopeful this one would be just as good, and it exceeded my expectations by a mile! Emotional and angsty, I was drawn from the very first paragraph and could not stop reading the entire time. The emotions this book provoked, I am still recovering big time! It was heavy and my heart hurt for Maddox so much. Denver Shaw is amazing at writing hurt/comfort and characters you can't help but want to help and keep safe. The author wrote a great plot that kept me hooked the entire time and did a wonderful job at handling the grief aspect to the story. The world building was great and I can't wait for more from the author!
𝔼𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕟 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕄𝕒𝕕𝕕𝕠𝕩
« I like the person I become when I'm around him, a softer person. »
x ᴍᴍ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
x ʜᴜʀᴛ/ᴄᴏᴍꜰᴏʀᴛ
x ʙɪ ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇɴɪɴɢ
x ᴏᴘᴘᴏꜱɪᴛᴇꜱ ᴀᴛᴛʀᴀᴄᴛ
x ꜱɪᴢᴇ ᴅɪꜰꜰᴇʀᴇɴᴄᴇ
x ʜᴇᴀ
Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Steam: 3/5 🔥
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
Having absolutely loved the first book, I was hopeful this one would be just as good, and it exceeded my expectations by a mile! Emotional and angsty, I was drawn from the very first paragraph and could not stop reading the entire time. The emotions this book provoked, I am still recovering big time! It was heavy and my heart hurt for Maddox so much. Denver Shaw is amazing at writing hurt/comfort and characters you can't help but want to help and keep safe. The author wrote a great plot that kept me hooked the entire time and did a wonderful job at handling the grief aspect to the story. The world building was great and I can't wait for more from the author!
July 14, 2023
Tropes: tutor/jock, rich/poor, hurt/comfort
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: grief, minor character death, survivors guilt, assault, attempted SA, bi for you, mental health issues
Ethan is a freshman, poor, desperate to make a lot of money quickly to cover his tuition and bills. Maddox is a third year, a football player, and he's dealing with a lot of mental health stuff given his twin brother died in a car accident 3 years ago while Maddox was driving. Maddox is doing bad in school and is at risk of losing his spot on the team because of his GPA. Maddox hires Ethan as a tutor. Ethan had took the same course early. Ethan also works as a stripper. Maddox realizes he's bi and wants to be with him. His twin was gay, sexuality is not an issue.
I wasn't a huge fan of the choices the author made with this story. It had potential, but it was disappointing.
Too gooey/schmoopy language. Too early for them to be as serious as they were and say the things they did. I want to say they weren't realistic but maybe they were, for immature teenage love. They went from yelling at each other at the day before to declaring their love the next day. I kind of wish it showed more emotional maturity and restraint, I don't want to read an immature teenage love story that doesn't have depth/reality to it, it doesn't seem like the forever enduring relationship I want to read.
I was not happy with how things turned out regarding Ethan's job stripping. Maddox stumbling upon the strip club for the reasons he did was weak/random, didn't seem natural or a satisfying dramatic reveal. And Maddox interrupted Ethan in the middle of his shift, took him out to his car, and they had penetrative sex for the first time and then it fades to black and resumes on another day? Wth, did he go back to work, that's it?? I can't see this going over well, not realistic. Ethan quitting his job because "Maddox won't have it", um, there's no shame to his job, that's judgemental (not caring) and controlling.
I also couldn't handle the cheese of the punny nail polish names that are meaningful. Vom! Also, Ethan was too poor to buy food, but he has a never ending supply of nail polishes? And he changes his nail polish almost daily it seems, when he is exhausted, running himself ragged with all his commitments? Not believable.
And Ethan had just had it out with Maddox and made him agree to let him make his own choices the day before and then Maddox goes behind his back and pays off his tuition bill? This is creating a really bad taste in my mouth and it's really bad for their relationship because it puts a lot of pressure on them. Ethan quitting his job puts him on a permanent financial dependence on Maddox, because paying off that one bill is just one bill he's got years more of bills to come and he needs to think ahead and he needs to have Independence so that he doesn't feel reliant and have an unhealthy relationship with Maddox. Not a mature resolution.
Some notable moments:
"He looks over at me with heavy-lidded eyes and his lips quirk up into the slightest of smiles when he realizes it’s me. There’s something about a half-asleep Ethan that manages to make my heart flutter."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink."
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: grief, minor character death, survivors guilt, assault, attempted SA, bi for you, mental health issues
Ethan is a freshman, poor, desperate to make a lot of money quickly to cover his tuition and bills. Maddox is a third year, a football player, and he's dealing with a lot of mental health stuff given his twin brother died in a car accident 3 years ago while Maddox was driving. Maddox is doing bad in school and is at risk of losing his spot on the team because of his GPA. Maddox hires Ethan as a tutor. Ethan had took the same course early. Ethan also works as a stripper. Maddox realizes he's bi and wants to be with him. His twin was gay, sexuality is not an issue.
I wasn't a huge fan of the choices the author made with this story. It had potential, but it was disappointing.
Too gooey/schmoopy language. Too early for them to be as serious as they were and say the things they did. I want to say they weren't realistic but maybe they were, for immature teenage love. They went from yelling at each other at the day before to declaring their love the next day. I kind of wish it showed more emotional maturity and restraint, I don't want to read an immature teenage love story that doesn't have depth/reality to it, it doesn't seem like the forever enduring relationship I want to read.
I was not happy with how things turned out regarding Ethan's job stripping. Maddox stumbling upon the strip club for the reasons he did was weak/random, didn't seem natural or a satisfying dramatic reveal. And Maddox interrupted Ethan in the middle of his shift, took him out to his car, and they had penetrative sex for the first time and then it fades to black and resumes on another day? Wth, did he go back to work, that's it?? I can't see this going over well, not realistic. Ethan quitting his job because "Maddox won't have it", um, there's no shame to his job, that's judgemental (not caring) and controlling.
I also couldn't handle the cheese of the punny nail polish names that are meaningful. Vom! Also, Ethan was too poor to buy food, but he has a never ending supply of nail polishes? And he changes his nail polish almost daily it seems, when he is exhausted, running himself ragged with all his commitments? Not believable.
And Ethan had just had it out with Maddox and made him agree to let him make his own choices the day before and then Maddox goes behind his back and pays off his tuition bill? This is creating a really bad taste in my mouth and it's really bad for their relationship because it puts a lot of pressure on them. Ethan quitting his job puts him on a permanent financial dependence on Maddox, because paying off that one bill is just one bill he's got years more of bills to come and he needs to think ahead and he needs to have Independence so that he doesn't feel reliant and have an unhealthy relationship with Maddox. Not a mature resolution.
Some notable moments:
"He looks over at me with heavy-lidded eyes and his lips quirk up into the slightest of smiles when he realizes it’s me. There’s something about a half-asleep Ethan that manages to make my heart flutter."
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2023
Sometimes I long for a zero stars option
July 10, 2023
HURT/COMFORT BI-AWAKENING!
I loved the first book of the series and looked forward to Maddox and Ethan but their story exceeded all my expectations till the tear dripping end!
“Ahhh! Love,” she says, smiling. “It has a way of opening up old wounds and pushing us to heal them.”
Denver Shaw really knows how to delve deep into the depiction of hurt/ comfort regarding grief and assault with these two characters by showcasing all their deep rooted hurt and insecurities and how they heal from it by supporting, encouraging and loving each other with mutual trust and respect!
I absolutely loved the nail varnish toe fetish and the puns that followed with each Colour!
I loved their dynamic and their smouldering chemistry and how they just complimented and inspired each other!
I will say that this is the best book of the series by far and wish I could give it 10 stars!
Now I need to get rid of this book hangover!
However the question remains regarding a certain band member and a football player….
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest opinion on this book.
I loved the first book of the series and looked forward to Maddox and Ethan but their story exceeded all my expectations till the tear dripping end!
“Ahhh! Love,” she says, smiling. “It has a way of opening up old wounds and pushing us to heal them.”
Denver Shaw really knows how to delve deep into the depiction of hurt/ comfort regarding grief and assault with these two characters by showcasing all their deep rooted hurt and insecurities and how they heal from it by supporting, encouraging and loving each other with mutual trust and respect!
I absolutely loved the nail varnish toe fetish and the puns that followed with each Colour!
I loved their dynamic and their smouldering chemistry and how they just complimented and inspired each other!
I will say that this is the best book of the series by far and wish I could give it 10 stars!
Now I need to get rid of this book hangover!
However the question remains regarding a certain band member and a football player….
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest opinion on this book.
July 7, 2023
Arc Review for Fumble Hearts By Denver Shaw
In the book Fumble Hearts By Denver Shaw you meet Ethan and Maddox in college at Tennessee U. There is a Bi-awaking , opposites attract, metal health rep, nerd/jock, size difference in this book. What I loved the most in the book is how emotions are shown and how it’s written. I also like that throughout the whole book it shows a battle with mental health. How they struggle with it what they do to cope with the metal health and what step they take towards to heal themselves. The other thing in the book that I loved was the chemistry between Ethan and Maddox throughout the whole book. One of my favorite quotes in the book is “ He sees me as an equal, a person he wants to share his victory with.” In the they both other there happy ending that they both wanted and live for themselves and each other in the end.
In the book Fumble Hearts By Denver Shaw you meet Ethan and Maddox in college at Tennessee U. There is a Bi-awaking , opposites attract, metal health rep, nerd/jock, size difference in this book. What I loved the most in the book is how emotions are shown and how it’s written. I also like that throughout the whole book it shows a battle with mental health. How they struggle with it what they do to cope with the metal health and what step they take towards to heal themselves. The other thing in the book that I loved was the chemistry between Ethan and Maddox throughout the whole book. One of my favorite quotes in the book is “ He sees me as an equal, a person he wants to share his victory with.” In the they both other there happy ending that they both wanted and live for themselves and each other in the end.
July 16, 2023
Maddox and Ethan ❤️
4.5 Stars ⭐️
✅Nerd/Jock
✅Hurt/Comfort
✅Sweet ❤️
✅Spicy 🔥
Awwwwweeee, this one hit me right in the feels. Two broken souls in need of something and everything they found in each other, absolutely heartwarming. I may have shed a tear or two for each of these great characters. I am becoming such a fan of Denver Shaw's writing. The stories flow so right and the relationship builds are as close to perfection as it gets. I would absolutely recommend this book, it was sweet, emotional and comforting, so worth the read.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4.5 Stars ⭐️
✅Nerd/Jock
✅Hurt/Comfort
✅Sweet ❤️
✅Spicy 🔥
Awwwwweeee, this one hit me right in the feels. Two broken souls in need of something and everything they found in each other, absolutely heartwarming. I may have shed a tear or two for each of these great characters. I am becoming such a fan of Denver Shaw's writing. The stories flow so right and the relationship builds are as close to perfection as it gets. I would absolutely recommend this book, it was sweet, emotional and comforting, so worth the read.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
July 7, 2023
Love Tennessee U
I loved being back at Tennessee U! I loved the first book Saving West and I really loved Fumbled Hearts too !!
This one follows Maddox, a football player at the university. And Ethan an aspiring lawyer. I loved the development the story brings for both characters. Getting to know them both individually before being thrown in a instant love relationship. We get to see both their struggles, which left me in tears by the end of the book. Definately an emotional read, but a very rewarding HEA. Love Denvers books !
I loved being back at Tennessee U! I loved the first book Saving West and I really loved Fumbled Hearts too !!
This one follows Maddox, a football player at the university. And Ethan an aspiring lawyer. I loved the development the story brings for both characters. Getting to know them both individually before being thrown in a instant love relationship. We get to see both their struggles, which left me in tears by the end of the book. Definately an emotional read, but a very rewarding HEA. Love Denvers books !
July 6, 2023
This is the first book I had read by this author but this was a really good story. It was an intense and emotional story about overcoming hardship and trauma/grief and about giving love a chance. Footballer Maddox is still struggling with the death of his twin brother and is failing his English literature class. He hired Ethan to tutor him. They have a rocky start but as they start to get to know each other, they realise that they actually like each other. But Maddox really struggles with believing in commitment. Ethan is good for him and not giving up on him. Ethan helps Maddox understand that he doesn't have to live in his brother's shadow and that he's lovable. I enjoyed reading this story.
July 7, 2023
I absolutely loved book 1 in this series. I was so excited for this story and I did enjoy it but it didn’t hold my interest as much as book 1 did. This is an incredibly slow burn romance. Even in their thoughts it was quite slow but it gave us time to learn about the characters. There were also a few situations I had a hard time believing.
Around 50% however I started to get more into it. Ethan and Maddox were cute together. One thing that made me laugh out loud was Maddox’s negotiation skills (or lack there of really). I wish I could negotiate with people with his “skills”!
If you loved book 1 I’d still recommend this and hopefully you will enjoy it!
Around 50% however I started to get more into it. Ethan and Maddox were cute together. One thing that made me laugh out loud was Maddox’s negotiation skills (or lack there of really). I wish I could negotiate with people with his “skills”!
If you loved book 1 I’d still recommend this and hopefully you will enjoy it!
July 3, 2023
An easy book to lose yourself in for a good few hours. We meet Ethan and Maddox; at first glance they appear to be complete opposites but we learn that they both have secrets and hidden worries. Maddox has been through trauma but chooses to keep it hidden, which, only results in his pain coming out in other ways. Ethan is a feisty character and luckily for Maddox, he doesn't give in easily. Maddox's pain of losing his brother is heartbreaking and very emotional to read. There is a relative amount of angst throughout the book but the book doesn't dive too deep so I didn't feel overly angsty reading it. Not overly steamy but it still oozed lust and desire. The epilogue jumps to the good stuff and had a really sweet HEA. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 7, 2023
Good story, I just felt like it left a lot out of the story—especially toward the end. I found myself not really wanting to finish it, but only had like an hour left.
The characters were pretty well developed and Ethan and Maddox’s relationship was believable for the most part and Maddox’s pain and trauma was dealt with well.
Ethan and Maddox definitely had to fight for their HEA and overall, it was a good story.
The characters were pretty well developed and Ethan and Maddox’s relationship was believable for the most part and Maddox’s pain and trauma was dealt with well.
Ethan and Maddox definitely had to fight for their HEA and overall, it was a good story.
July 10, 2023
Even better!
I didn't think it would be possible to like a story better than Shane and West's story, but Ethan and Maddox made me smile! All throughout the book, throughout their adversities, I found myself rooting for these two to find their happily ever after!
I didn't think it would be possible to like a story better than Shane and West's story, but Ethan and Maddox made me smile! All throughout the book, throughout their adversities, I found myself rooting for these two to find their happily ever after!
December 23, 2024
I don’t know where to start. This story was unrealistic and unbelievable. Everything was just “too perfect”. I found too many errors in the text and the dialogue was not written with a mature style. I love a great awakening book, but in my opinion, this was not it.
July 7, 2023
Book 2 in the series and I enjoyed it just as much as the first book if not more. The two main characters couldn’t be more different Maddox rich football star and Ethan poor student just scrapping by. Ethan answers an ad for a tutor as a way to make extra dollars to pay his way as he can’t ask his family for what they don’t have. I loved how these two struggled initially but how could one not root for they to get together. Beautifully written book that I couldn’t put down.
July 10, 2023
This book was very good. I loke the relationship between the MCs. I like how they help each other with their emotions.
July 14, 2023
I couldn’t get past the cringey dialogue
July 3, 2023
This is the first book that I read from this author and I will definitely be reading more. Maddox, who is suffering the loss of his twin, is at Tennessee U studying business and playing football, which was his brothers dream. Ethan, is at the same university wanting to become a lawyer. Due to his partial scholarship, Ethan needs to find a job or leave. Maddox needs help with English lit and posts for a tutor. Sparks fly when they met, but Maddox needs help bring up his GPA to play. As they start getting close, their real slowly started from there. Great world building, high heat and steam. The epilogue was awesome. Cannot wait to read more.
July 19, 2023
Fumbled Hearts is the second book in the Tennessee U series. This book sucked me in from the beginning and I couldn't put it down. Maddox and Ethan are an amazing couple. This book has it all. There is so much emotional turmoil that Maddox has to work through. Denver Shaw does a fantastic job of making her characters real. I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more books from Denver Shaw. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
January 3, 2024
I’m always looking for a good nerd/jock romance. This one left me still looking. It’s a mish-mash of cliches, and not in a good way, with a plot that relies on coincidence and irrational actions. There is nothing original or surprising and by the end I was skimming to try to finish it before my eyes rolled out of my head. I won’t be in a hurry to read the rest of this author’s books.
July 2, 2023
4.5 stars
I loved this second book of Tennessee U and I have to be honest, I didn't expect for Maddox and Ethan's story to be so intense.
When they meet, Maddox is in need of a tutor to help him getting is grades up and Ethan is desperately trying to find a new job that can help him paying his college tuition.
Ethan feels the pressure of not letting his parents down and he cannot ask them for money, giving their poor financial situation; so he also starts working at a strip club. He's not happy working there, but he hasn't got other options.
The more anguished between the two of them, though, is Maddox: he lost his twin brother 3 years before and he's literally drowining in guilt: his pain is overwhelming, he doesn't know how to survive it and that leads him to bad decisions. Maddox is a lovely young man and what happened to him was just too big and horrible and he feels unworthy of love. That feeling makes him to push away the people who love him the most (and it also doesn't seem to have close friends to rely on).
I think the author did a great job describing Maddox complex emotions: pain, guilt, self-doubt, loss, avoidance, self-hatred, desperation. Some parts were hard to read, he just seemed to give up. From the glimpses of his relationship with his brother that the author give us, it's clear that Landry's loss devastated him.
Luckily, his love for Ethan will push him to take more care of himself and I liked very much that it wasn't Ethan to "heal" Maddox, but Maddox made the right decision himself.
The first sex scenes are very sweet and they reflect the fact that Maddox has never been with a man. But the scene outside the club was very intense and passionnate, it was clear that their relationship reached another level.
What prevented me from giving 5 full stars:
I understand why Maddox was disconnected from his teammates and that he wasn't very close to anyone because of his past, but I would have liked for Ethan to be more close to Shane, who was very attentive towards him and made clear he was ready to help several times. I didn't really get why Ethan didn't have a close friend.
The two part epilogue is beautiful and so right for their journey. The last part made my cry ugly tears, all I wanted to do was hugging Maddox very tightly. I hope the author will write at least another book of this series (maybe with Anderson and Liam?).
In the meantime, I recommended to read this one.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
I loved this second book of Tennessee U and I have to be honest, I didn't expect for Maddox and Ethan's story to be so intense.
When they meet, Maddox is in need of a tutor to help him getting is grades up and Ethan is desperately trying to find a new job that can help him paying his college tuition.
Ethan feels the pressure of not letting his parents down and he cannot ask them for money, giving their poor financial situation; so he also starts working at a strip club. He's not happy working there, but he hasn't got other options.
The more anguished between the two of them, though, is Maddox: he lost his twin brother 3 years before and he's literally drowining in guilt: his pain is overwhelming, he doesn't know how to survive it and that leads him to bad decisions. Maddox is a lovely young man and what happened to him was just too big and horrible and he feels unworthy of love. That feeling makes him to push away the people who love him the most (and it also doesn't seem to have close friends to rely on).
I think the author did a great job describing Maddox complex emotions: pain, guilt, self-doubt, loss, avoidance, self-hatred, desperation. Some parts were hard to read, he just seemed to give up. From the glimpses of his relationship with his brother that the author give us, it's clear that Landry's loss devastated him.
Luckily, his love for Ethan will push him to take more care of himself and I liked very much that it wasn't Ethan to "heal" Maddox, but Maddox made the right decision himself.
The first sex scenes are very sweet and they reflect the fact that Maddox has never been with a man. But the scene outside the club was very intense and passionnate, it was clear that their relationship reached another level.
What prevented me from giving 5 full stars:
I understand why Maddox was disconnected from his teammates and that he wasn't very close to anyone because of his past, but I would have liked for Ethan to be more close to Shane, who was very attentive towards him and made clear he was ready to help several times. I didn't really get why Ethan didn't have a close friend.
The two part epilogue is beautiful and so right for their journey. The last part made my cry ugly tears, all I wanted to do was hugging Maddox very tightly. I hope the author will write at least another book of this series (maybe with Anderson and Liam?).
In the meantime, I recommended to read this one.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
July 15, 2023
Fumbled Hearts is an easily enjoyable college romance with a strong opposites attract trope between a nerd and jock, financially struggling and wealthy, lithe and muscled. Ethan needs to get some income quickly to raise enough to pay his tuition as his partial scholarship is not enough. He ends up with two jobs, taking up the passing joke of stripping as a serious consideration and an English Lit tutor for Maddox who is failing the class but needs a higher grade in order to be able to play football. They do not get off to the best of starts with Maddox battling with grief, nightmares and consoling himself with alcohol after the loss of his twin brother two years ago. It's not long though before Maddox feels the need to act on the attraction he feels towards Ethan, the first time he has wanted to act on that, and I really enjoyed that there was no homophobia in this book, not from friends or family. The drama all comes from Ethan's determination to solve his money troubles by himself and Maddox's lack of coping with his grief and feeling the need to suffer.
The connection between the MC's is strong pretty quickly and I like how the two act, with Ethan not afraid to stand up for himself which surprises Maddox, expecting the smaller, nerdy guy to be quieter. Both men have warm and loving families but feel that they can't put their worries and stresses on to them. For me, though, it felt like when drama hit, it was quick with little to no lead up and sometimes didn't fit the flow of the story. I also felt that Maddox's teammates treated him unfairly when it came out that he was benched due to failing a class. Not one offering support to help pass the class, instead ignoring or straight up having it out with him when he clearly already feels bad about it. My heart went out to Maddox a lot with the amount of pressure he has put upon himself to live up to his brother's dream of playing football and the grief and flashbacks that he experiences.
Overall, an enjoyable college romance that has a lot of emotion throughout. Both men have issues to deal with but find that together it is easier to weather the storm.
**Please read the trigger warnings due to some possibly distressing scenes/themes**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
The connection between the MC's is strong pretty quickly and I like how the two act, with Ethan not afraid to stand up for himself which surprises Maddox, expecting the smaller, nerdy guy to be quieter. Both men have warm and loving families but feel that they can't put their worries and stresses on to them. For me, though, it felt like when drama hit, it was quick with little to no lead up and sometimes didn't fit the flow of the story. I also felt that Maddox's teammates treated him unfairly when it came out that he was benched due to failing a class. Not one offering support to help pass the class, instead ignoring or straight up having it out with him when he clearly already feels bad about it. My heart went out to Maddox a lot with the amount of pressure he has put upon himself to live up to his brother's dream of playing football and the grief and flashbacks that he experiences.
Overall, an enjoyable college romance that has a lot of emotion throughout. Both men have issues to deal with but find that together it is easier to weather the storm.
**Please read the trigger warnings due to some possibly distressing scenes/themes**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
July 11, 2023
an ambitious attempt with some tropes & timing issues
"Fumbled Hearts," the second book in the Tennessee U Series by Denver Shaw, delves into the realm of a typical trope: the tutor and the college jock exploring a bi-awakening gay relationship. While the novel shows promise, it struggles with multiple timeline inconsistencies and includes an unusual foot fetish/nail polish subplot that seems out of place within the overall story.
The book follows the characters Ethan and Maddox, who embark on a journey of self-discovery and love. Ethan, the dedicated tutor, and Maddox, the popular college jock, fall into the predictable trope of an unexpected romantic connection. While their initial chemistry is palpable, the development of their relationship lacks the depth and nuance that could have made it truly engaging. The characters feel rather one-dimensional, relying heavily on established stereotypes, which hinders their ability to fully come to life on the pages.
Moreover, the novel suffers from numerous timeline inconsistencies that disrupt the reading experience. Abrupt transitions and disjointed events make it challenging for readers to follow the story's progression smoothly. These inconsistencies weaken the overall narrative structure, preventing readers from fully immersing themselves in the plot and connecting with the characters' journeys.
While "Fumbled Hearts" shows ambition in exploring themes of sexual identity and romance, it falls short in execution. The reliance on predictable tropes, timeline inconsistencies, and the inclusion of a misplaced fetish subplot hinder the book's potential. Denver Shaw's writing style remains accessible, but the lack of depth in character development and narrative coherence make it difficult to fully engage with the story.
"Fumbled Hearts" (Tennessee U Series Book 2) struggles to overcome its reliance on clichéd tropes and its inconsistency in timelines. While the book may appeal to readers seeking a light, trope-driven romance, those seeking more substantial storytelling and well-rounded characters may find themselves disappointed.
"Fumbled Hearts," the second book in the Tennessee U Series by Denver Shaw, delves into the realm of a typical trope: the tutor and the college jock exploring a bi-awakening gay relationship. While the novel shows promise, it struggles with multiple timeline inconsistencies and includes an unusual foot fetish/nail polish subplot that seems out of place within the overall story.
The book follows the characters Ethan and Maddox, who embark on a journey of self-discovery and love. Ethan, the dedicated tutor, and Maddox, the popular college jock, fall into the predictable trope of an unexpected romantic connection. While their initial chemistry is palpable, the development of their relationship lacks the depth and nuance that could have made it truly engaging. The characters feel rather one-dimensional, relying heavily on established stereotypes, which hinders their ability to fully come to life on the pages.
Moreover, the novel suffers from numerous timeline inconsistencies that disrupt the reading experience. Abrupt transitions and disjointed events make it challenging for readers to follow the story's progression smoothly. These inconsistencies weaken the overall narrative structure, preventing readers from fully immersing themselves in the plot and connecting with the characters' journeys.
While "Fumbled Hearts" shows ambition in exploring themes of sexual identity and romance, it falls short in execution. The reliance on predictable tropes, timeline inconsistencies, and the inclusion of a misplaced fetish subplot hinder the book's potential. Denver Shaw's writing style remains accessible, but the lack of depth in character development and narrative coherence make it difficult to fully engage with the story.
"Fumbled Hearts" (Tennessee U Series Book 2) struggles to overcome its reliance on clichéd tropes and its inconsistency in timelines. While the book may appeal to readers seeking a light, trope-driven romance, those seeking more substantial storytelling and well-rounded characters may find themselves disappointed.
July 8, 2023
💙 ARC Review - Fumbled Hearts (Tennessee U #2) by @denvershawromance 💙
To say that I have been looking forward to the second book in this series, would be to put it mildly. I loved Saving West and was really looking forward to going back to TU 💙
Fumbled Hearts starts out slowly - there’s a long build-up where we get to know the characters in-depth. In this case, it not only works but it is also necessary since both MCs have heavy stuff to deal with. And it would not make sense to just jump in full speed ahead. So prepare yourselves for a slow burn which will be totally worth it in the end 💙
I guess what I love most about this book, is the realistic and amazing development of Ethan’s and Maddox relationship. After some initial challenges, they both show how communication, understanding and love can heal past wounds and restore belief in a brighter future. These boys are amazing together and good for each other like Maddox’ mother points out. So emphatic, sweet and patient.
I love that the hurt/comfort goes both ways and that both families support these boys on their way towards healing and a mutual future 💙 Denver takes her time to really develop these characters, making me fall head over heels in love with them as they fall for each other 🩷
So, here we go:
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Steam: 💋💋
Angst: 🥺
Swoon: 🫠🫠🫠🫠
Bonus points: nail polish with fun, sexy names is just the cutest thing ever 🩷💋
*I rcvd an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
*edit is mine, pics are not 💙
To say that I have been looking forward to the second book in this series, would be to put it mildly. I loved Saving West and was really looking forward to going back to TU 💙
Fumbled Hearts starts out slowly - there’s a long build-up where we get to know the characters in-depth. In this case, it not only works but it is also necessary since both MCs have heavy stuff to deal with. And it would not make sense to just jump in full speed ahead. So prepare yourselves for a slow burn which will be totally worth it in the end 💙
I guess what I love most about this book, is the realistic and amazing development of Ethan’s and Maddox relationship. After some initial challenges, they both show how communication, understanding and love can heal past wounds and restore belief in a brighter future. These boys are amazing together and good for each other like Maddox’ mother points out. So emphatic, sweet and patient.
I love that the hurt/comfort goes both ways and that both families support these boys on their way towards healing and a mutual future 💙 Denver takes her time to really develop these characters, making me fall head over heels in love with them as they fall for each other 🩷
So, here we go:
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Steam: 💋💋
Angst: 🥺
Swoon: 🫠🫠🫠🫠
Bonus points: nail polish with fun, sexy names is just the cutest thing ever 🩷💋
*I rcvd an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
*edit is mine, pics are not 💙
January 4, 2024
Been looking forward to this book since I read the first book in the Tennessee U series and it did not disappoint! Ethan is struggling to keep afloat in college due to money issues. His scholarship doesn’t cover everything he needs and he can’t ask his parents for help. They are struggling enough as is and have his siblings to worry about. So he takes the burden on his own. And in doing so he comes across an ad for a English Lit tutor. And the person he finds on the other end of the ad is the last person he expected to see. Maddox’s football season is in trouble if he doesn’t get his grade in English up. No matter how hard he tries, he just can’t seem to grasp the material. And when he gets benched because of his grade, he will do whatever it takes to earn his spot back. And the person he finally finds to tutor him, is the guy he came across only days earlier that he couldn’t keep his eyes off. Ethan and Maddox will have their beginning ups and downs as they try to get to know one another. Maddox is struggling not just with class but with his own past and demons. He lost his twin brother years earlier and he has never been the same. But meeting Ethan makes him realize that he can’t go on like this. And he wants to be better. For Ethan and maybe even for himself. So much going on in this story and you’ll be cheering these two on to find a way to one another and overcome their struggles. Much like the first book, I couldn’t put the story down!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2023
I really enjoyed Ethan and Maddox’s story in book 2 of the Tennesse U series from Denver Shaw. I think this can be a standalone although I really enjoyed West and Shane’s book and they do appear in this book (and also timelines seem to run concurrent in certain parts).
What I really appreciated about this book was that the author incorporated some difficult subjects into the book and into the character’s narrative and handles these sensitive topics with such care and the emotions that they bring up. Through the book Maddox deals with a devastating loss that he’s never really worked through all the emotions that come with it. And realistic that a relationship doesn’t solve these types of things but having a supportive partner makes a world of difference.
I think this book was more of a slow burn and had these moments of angst between the characters but it all worked out as these two got their well deserved HEA. I suggest checking out the content warnings on this as there are a few sensitive subjects beyond dealing with grief but also the attempted assault of one MC, dealing with anxiety and also one MC has some financial difficulties.
I don’t know exactly what book 3 in the series will bring but I have my guesses and can’t wait to see what happens next. Also hoping to see some cameos of Ethan and Maddox in the authors upcoming release as well!
What I really appreciated about this book was that the author incorporated some difficult subjects into the book and into the character’s narrative and handles these sensitive topics with such care and the emotions that they bring up. Through the book Maddox deals with a devastating loss that he’s never really worked through all the emotions that come with it. And realistic that a relationship doesn’t solve these types of things but having a supportive partner makes a world of difference.
I think this book was more of a slow burn and had these moments of angst between the characters but it all worked out as these two got their well deserved HEA. I suggest checking out the content warnings on this as there are a few sensitive subjects beyond dealing with grief but also the attempted assault of one MC, dealing with anxiety and also one MC has some financial difficulties.
I don’t know exactly what book 3 in the series will bring but I have my guesses and can’t wait to see what happens next. Also hoping to see some cameos of Ethan and Maddox in the authors upcoming release as well!
July 5, 2023
FUMBLED HEARTS is the second book in the Tennessee U series, but the first one I have read. This in no way impacted my enjoyment of this book, although I now really want to read book one!
Maddox and Ethan are both struggling for different reasons. Enough information is given at the beginning that you understand the problem without it being an info dump. The complexities of the problems are gradually revealed over time, showing how both of them are desperate to succeed for whatever reason.
I thought the two of them were incredibly sweet together, as well as being hot! Maddox's nail varnish fetish made me laugh, I loved how it was incorporated into the ending. The epilogue was absolutely perfect, showing their stories and also how Maddox is dealing with what he went through. Heartbreaking and joyful at the same time.
A great read that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 5, 2023
Maddox and Ethan are both struggling for different reasons. Enough information is given at the beginning that you understand the problem without it being an info dump. The complexities of the problems are gradually revealed over time, showing how both of them are desperate to succeed for whatever reason.
I thought the two of them were incredibly sweet together, as well as being hot! Maddox's nail varnish fetish made me laugh, I loved how it was incorporated into the ending. The epilogue was absolutely perfect, showing their stories and also how Maddox is dealing with what he went through. Heartbreaking and joyful at the same time.
A great read that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 5, 2023
July 3, 2023
This is the first of this series I’ve read. I will go catch up because this appears to be a series to follow.
Maddox, seems to be a stereotype football jock who is having trouble with a class that could cause him to be unable to play. He faces letting his teammates down and not only himself but he believes his family as well. He is told to bring his GPA up and an option is to hire a tutor.
Ethan is having trouble paying his college costs. He can’t seem to keep a job. He just isn’t the type to be bullied and take it so it costs him a job he is really in need of. He doesn’t have money to even get by for his daily expenses. Then he applies for a job out of his comfort level but the pay is good just not enough to cover everything. He resorts to take a job tutoring Maddox. Ethan doesn’t appreciate the jock type but he needs the money and finds he is actually attracted to Maddox. Their path to getting their lives in order and their relationship on a level that they can work together is intense and heartbreaking. This story really points out how things are not as they seem and life can be hard. I’m anxious to see what’s next in this series.
Maddox, seems to be a stereotype football jock who is having trouble with a class that could cause him to be unable to play. He faces letting his teammates down and not only himself but he believes his family as well. He is told to bring his GPA up and an option is to hire a tutor.
Ethan is having trouble paying his college costs. He can’t seem to keep a job. He just isn’t the type to be bullied and take it so it costs him a job he is really in need of. He doesn’t have money to even get by for his daily expenses. Then he applies for a job out of his comfort level but the pay is good just not enough to cover everything. He resorts to take a job tutoring Maddox. Ethan doesn’t appreciate the jock type but he needs the money and finds he is actually attracted to Maddox. Their path to getting their lives in order and their relationship on a level that they can work together is intense and heartbreaking. This story really points out how things are not as they seem and life can be hard. I’m anxious to see what’s next in this series.
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