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Charleston Condors #3
The Score
Carter Maxwell knows he’s a screwup. Four teams in three seasons tells the story, as much as he wishes it didn’t.
But finally, he’s landed in a good place, where he likes the team and the team actually likes him. Even the Condors' current rebuilding mode suits him. There’s a new owner. New coach. New players. New rules.
But one rule hasn’t changed: don’t seduce your agent-appointed c*ckblocker.
Ian Parker agrees to live with Carter and keep him on the straight and narrow for one simple reason: Alec, the agent in charge of cleaning up Carter’s reputation, has promised him something Ian wants very, very badly.
Even more badly than Carter naked above him and below him and next to him.
A chance for Ian to become an agent.
But Ian didn’t take into account just how persuasive Carter is—or just how desperately he desires to be persuaded. Or how, while spending time with Carter, they’ll somehow stumble into a fake relationship that begins to feel all too real.
It doesn’t matter that Carter’s never fallen in love or that he’s never been in a real relationship. It doesn’t matter that Ian’s risking his future as an agent.
He’s determined to score the impossible and reform the bad boy—only after encouraging him to misbehave one last time. But this time, only with him.
But finally, he’s landed in a good place, where he likes the team and the team actually likes him. Even the Condors' current rebuilding mode suits him. There’s a new owner. New coach. New players. New rules.
But one rule hasn’t changed: don’t seduce your agent-appointed c*ckblocker.
Ian Parker agrees to live with Carter and keep him on the straight and narrow for one simple reason: Alec, the agent in charge of cleaning up Carter’s reputation, has promised him something Ian wants very, very badly.
Even more badly than Carter naked above him and below him and next to him.
A chance for Ian to become an agent.
But Ian didn’t take into account just how persuasive Carter is—or just how desperately he desires to be persuaded. Or how, while spending time with Carter, they’ll somehow stumble into a fake relationship that begins to feel all too real.
It doesn’t matter that Carter’s never fallen in love or that he’s never been in a real relationship. It doesn’t matter that Ian’s risking his future as an agent.
He’s determined to score the impossible and reform the bad boy—only after encouraging him to misbehave one last time. But this time, only with him.
425 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2023
208 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Beth Bolden
76 books677 followersA lifelong Oregonian, Beth Bolden has just recently moved to North Carolina with her supportive husband and their sweet kitten, Earl Grey. Beth still believes in Keeping Portland Weird, and intends to be just as weird in Raleigh.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
November 2, 2023
Carter the unstoppable!
There are some things which are meant to go together- strawberries & cream, roast beef & Yorkshire puddings, treacle sponge & custard - and to these, I'll add Carter and Ian.
Because, like the above, they are a perfect match, they complement and only improve matters by being paired up and, like the endless draw of the moon pulling the sea to and from the shore, it was inevitable they'd end up together.
You see, no matter how much Ian was determined to do his best for Carter as his newly appointed "celibacy advocate", it's clear from the moment they meet that there's a powerful attraction that just keeps turning up the heat.
Beth's already given us an insight into Carter in the previous two books, of course, that's just the surface view, and there's much more to the team's star receiver.
What I love the most about Beth's sports romances is how she always gives us the view from behind the adulation, and here we get to see how much Carter struggles.
Ian's both a godsend and the devil's temptation in one beautiful auburn haired, freckle dotted package.
That she manages to make this both a slow burn and an everlasting love within the time frame of a month and a bit, is pure genius.
Until I get Deacon & Grant's book in my grubby mitts, this one will be my favourite in the series.
Carter and Ian are joining Colin O'Connor & Nick, coaches Asa & Scott and Alec & Spencer at the top of my favourite Beth couples tree!
#As ever, I beta-read this book for Beth.
There are some things which are meant to go together- strawberries & cream, roast beef & Yorkshire puddings, treacle sponge & custard - and to these, I'll add Carter and Ian.
Because, like the above, they are a perfect match, they complement and only improve matters by being paired up and, like the endless draw of the moon pulling the sea to and from the shore, it was inevitable they'd end up together.
You see, no matter how much Ian was determined to do his best for Carter as his newly appointed "celibacy advocate", it's clear from the moment they meet that there's a powerful attraction that just keeps turning up the heat.
Beth's already given us an insight into Carter in the previous two books, of course, that's just the surface view, and there's much more to the team's star receiver.
What I love the most about Beth's sports romances is how she always gives us the view from behind the adulation, and here we get to see how much Carter struggles.
Ian's both a godsend and the devil's temptation in one beautiful auburn haired, freckle dotted package.
That she manages to make this both a slow burn and an everlasting love within the time frame of a month and a bit, is pure genius.
Until I get Deacon & Grant's book in my grubby mitts, this one will be my favourite in the series.
Carter and Ian are joining Colin O'Connor & Nick, coaches Asa & Scott and Alec & Spencer at the top of my favourite Beth couples tree!
#As ever, I beta-read this book for Beth.
October 18, 2023
4.5 stars. I’ve really enjoyed this series and I loved how this book was not between two players. I haven’t read a book with this kind of concept before. The whole idea of a sober companion is pretty neat.
Carter and Ian were so good together right from the start. It is a slow burn regarding actual sexy times but the tension between these two was on fire! Their chemistry was explosive when they finally do get together.
Ian was incredibly supportive of Carter and seeing the changes in both of them as Carter learned to deal with his anger issues and Ian learned to live life for himself too was wonderful to see. I loved their relationship at the end and they had a great HFN. I really wish we had an epilogue to see their HEA but overall I really enjoyed this story and absolutely recommend! I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series!
Carter and Ian were so good together right from the start. It is a slow burn regarding actual sexy times but the tension between these two was on fire! Their chemistry was explosive when they finally do get together.
Ian was incredibly supportive of Carter and seeing the changes in both of them as Carter learned to deal with his anger issues and Ian learned to live life for himself too was wonderful to see. I loved their relationship at the end and they had a great HFN. I really wish we had an epilogue to see their HEA but overall I really enjoyed this story and absolutely recommend! I’m really looking forward to the next book in this series!
October 31, 2023
Tropes: found family, hurt/comfort, forced proximity, forbidden relationship
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: no, hfn. They haven't worked out how they are going to be a couple long distance once Ian stops being his sober companion.
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: professional ethics issues, not respecting patients rights, inappropriate behaviour by a sober companion, bad parents, mental health issues, anger management, bit of a sex addiction
Before I get into this review I should acknowledge that I have opinions about professional ethics and patients rights and this book completely pissed me off. I'm a person that can't really dnf once I get started, I'm too OCD to walk away without knowing how things end. The book wasn't absolutely horrible, but it just did not sit well with me. No offense to the author, I've enjoyed a bunch of books by this author.
This book is 2 stars to me. I hummed and hawed about whether I should bump it to three so that I'm not penalizing the author for my preferences, but while I'm reacting more than others would, the story choices still were not good. I'm definitely adding this book to my never read again list because it is not for me!
Carter is a NFL player. I think he's pansexual. He has a really bad reputation as a player that hooks up with everyone and hits on everyone. He has a complicated relationship with his parents who were horrible, and he has anger management issues which lead him to have meltdowns and use sex as an outlet. In previous books in this series he comes off as a fun himbo character but his relationship with anger and sex is quite sad, it's not healthy. His meltdowns are making him a bad NFL player. He doesn't want to get traded again. He doesn't want to lose his s*** and get tossed out of games or blow opportunities in games.
Carter is getting help with his new agent and a therapist. But he's struggling. He caved after a bad game and had a foursome a couple days before the book starts. So his agent Alec hires Ian to be Carter's sober companion starting a couple days later. Ian's job is to help Carter follow the rules that have been laid out for his recovery. Which includes no sex, no clubs and various other things.
Ian has been a professional sober companion for 5 years, so he knows what the responsibility of the job is. Ian is tired of being a sober companion because he wants to put down roots, he doesn't want to move on every couple of months from one job to the next, living out of his suitcase. Ian wants to become a sports agent like Alec. If Ian impresses Alec with this assignment, Alec will hire him to work in his organization. Ian is gay and almost 30.
Ian's mother also happens to be Carter's therapist. Totally cringeworthy. If this relationship gets serious, do you really want your future mother-in-law to have heard all about your issues? Especially when Carter's issues are anger and sex. Second hand embarrassment set aside, my main concern is that Carter is being done dirty here. Having two healthcare providers that are related to each other is bad enough without one of them being a love interest. There's no way that this is a healthy dynamic for Carter, because he can't get the therapy that he needs from the mother, he can't get the help that he needs from Ian, he has to edit himself with the both of them. He's just worse off because they've given him people that are related to each other. The other person that Carter has to go to as a support is Alec, and at one point Alec's husband is even telling Carter not to bother Alec! I know Carter isn't suicidal, his struggles aren't putting him at the highest risk of harm, but when someone is getting mental health treatment it's so important for them to get what they need. You never know when something can go south. I know they talked and gave Carter the option to make changes to his providers, but this kind of situation shouldn't happen. If this was a morally gray dark romance and everyone knew it was unhealthy, I wouldn't blink, but people accepting this and representing this as healthy just pissed me off.
At one point Carter says Alec would be an a****** to fire Ian for hooking up with Carter. I'm like, no, that's completely reasonable behavior to fire the sober companion for having sex with his patient who is trying to avoid sex as a unhealthy coping mechanism. Carter's never had a relationship, he's always just done hookups. Alec and other people just accept and are happy about him being in a monogamous relationship, but it's kind of like an alcoholic just sticking to one type of alcohol.
I would almost say this book is slow burn. The first kiss doesn't happen until the 51% mark. But I have to say, I have never rooted so hard for a couple to not hook up. A person with basically a sex addiction hooking up with the sober companion that is trying to keep him on the straight and narrow is not an ideal setup. The first kiss happened when Carter is vulnerable after having a therapy breakthrough. Ian shouldn't really have turned the situation sexual, that's not terribly healthy. The relationship development is also off. They knew each other less than a month before they were at the I love you stage. And Carter in particular had no experience with relationships and it was unrealistic for him to just dive in 100% the way that he did and get all gooey.
Another thing I disliked was all the times Ian and Carter talked about the copious amounts of sex that Carter has had. I hate that Ian is feeling insecure. Just because Carter has had more sex, more partners, kinkier, group sex doesn't mean the plenty of sex Ian has had was nothing. Ian could very well have had better sex! It just felt a bit derogatory towards healthy sexual relationships. Like you can only be a sex god/expert if you've had the kind of sex Carter was having? It's reverse slut shaming, lol!
What did I like about this book? Carter was a sweet oblivious guy in ways. I thought he deserved better. I liked how his friends made him realize that he was in love with Ian. I liked how Carter basically started drooling when Ian said he had plans, naughty plans for them. I have fond feelings towards some of the characters in this book, because I've read the related books and liked the couples. I'm intrigued about Deacon's upcoming book.
Some notable moments:
"“But she did say we still need to work on boundaries. And not just mine with my parents, but with her and our relationship.” Ian laughed. “Yeah, I bet she did.” “Maybe I shouldn’t have told her thanks, I’m gonna go make you scream now,” Carter teased. Ian shuddered, but he was happy, anyway."
"“Are you saying that I love him?” Carter asked cautiously under his breath, as they approached the buffet line. Deacon shot him a look. “Did you not think you did?”"
Deacon is so relatable in this moment. He's basically saying, guys are trash but that food over there looks yummy! "“It’s pretty simple,” Carter said. “You meet the right person, and you don’t let them walk away. That’s all.” “Oh, that’s all,” Deacon retorted sarcastically. “Not sure there is a right person, but I do know there’s a turkey leg over there on the buffet, calling my name.”"
*FYI about steam: 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.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 2.5/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: no, hfn. They haven't worked out how they are going to be a couple long distance once Ian stops being his sober companion.
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: professional ethics issues, not respecting patients rights, inappropriate behaviour by a sober companion, bad parents, mental health issues, anger management, bit of a sex addiction
Before I get into this review I should acknowledge that I have opinions about professional ethics and patients rights and this book completely pissed me off. I'm a person that can't really dnf once I get started, I'm too OCD to walk away without knowing how things end. The book wasn't absolutely horrible, but it just did not sit well with me. No offense to the author, I've enjoyed a bunch of books by this author.
This book is 2 stars to me. I hummed and hawed about whether I should bump it to three so that I'm not penalizing the author for my preferences, but while I'm reacting more than others would, the story choices still were not good. I'm definitely adding this book to my never read again list because it is not for me!
Carter is a NFL player. I think he's pansexual. He has a really bad reputation as a player that hooks up with everyone and hits on everyone. He has a complicated relationship with his parents who were horrible, and he has anger management issues which lead him to have meltdowns and use sex as an outlet. In previous books in this series he comes off as a fun himbo character but his relationship with anger and sex is quite sad, it's not healthy. His meltdowns are making him a bad NFL player. He doesn't want to get traded again. He doesn't want to lose his s*** and get tossed out of games or blow opportunities in games.
Carter is getting help with his new agent and a therapist. But he's struggling. He caved after a bad game and had a foursome a couple days before the book starts. So his agent Alec hires Ian to be Carter's sober companion starting a couple days later. Ian's job is to help Carter follow the rules that have been laid out for his recovery. Which includes no sex, no clubs and various other things.
Ian has been a professional sober companion for 5 years, so he knows what the responsibility of the job is. Ian is tired of being a sober companion because he wants to put down roots, he doesn't want to move on every couple of months from one job to the next, living out of his suitcase. Ian wants to become a sports agent like Alec. If Ian impresses Alec with this assignment, Alec will hire him to work in his organization. Ian is gay and almost 30.
Ian's mother also happens to be Carter's therapist. Totally cringeworthy. If this relationship gets serious, do you really want your future mother-in-law to have heard all about your issues? Especially when Carter's issues are anger and sex. Second hand embarrassment set aside, my main concern is that Carter is being done dirty here. Having two healthcare providers that are related to each other is bad enough without one of them being a love interest. There's no way that this is a healthy dynamic for Carter, because he can't get the therapy that he needs from the mother, he can't get the help that he needs from Ian, he has to edit himself with the both of them. He's just worse off because they've given him people that are related to each other. The other person that Carter has to go to as a support is Alec, and at one point Alec's husband is even telling Carter not to bother Alec! I know Carter isn't suicidal, his struggles aren't putting him at the highest risk of harm, but when someone is getting mental health treatment it's so important for them to get what they need. You never know when something can go south. I know they talked and gave Carter the option to make changes to his providers, but this kind of situation shouldn't happen. If this was a morally gray dark romance and everyone knew it was unhealthy, I wouldn't blink, but people accepting this and representing this as healthy just pissed me off.
At one point Carter says Alec would be an a****** to fire Ian for hooking up with Carter. I'm like, no, that's completely reasonable behavior to fire the sober companion for having sex with his patient who is trying to avoid sex as a unhealthy coping mechanism. Carter's never had a relationship, he's always just done hookups. Alec and other people just accept and are happy about him being in a monogamous relationship, but it's kind of like an alcoholic just sticking to one type of alcohol.
I would almost say this book is slow burn. The first kiss doesn't happen until the 51% mark. But I have to say, I have never rooted so hard for a couple to not hook up. A person with basically a sex addiction hooking up with the sober companion that is trying to keep him on the straight and narrow is not an ideal setup. The first kiss happened when Carter is vulnerable after having a therapy breakthrough. Ian shouldn't really have turned the situation sexual, that's not terribly healthy. The relationship development is also off. They knew each other less than a month before they were at the I love you stage. And Carter in particular had no experience with relationships and it was unrealistic for him to just dive in 100% the way that he did and get all gooey.
Another thing I disliked was all the times Ian and Carter talked about the copious amounts of sex that Carter has had. I hate that Ian is feeling insecure. Just because Carter has had more sex, more partners, kinkier, group sex doesn't mean the plenty of sex Ian has had was nothing. Ian could very well have had better sex! It just felt a bit derogatory towards healthy sexual relationships. Like you can only be a sex god/expert if you've had the kind of sex Carter was having? It's reverse slut shaming, lol!
What did I like about this book? Carter was a sweet oblivious guy in ways. I thought he deserved better. I liked how his friends made him realize that he was in love with Ian. I liked how Carter basically started drooling when Ian said he had plans, naughty plans for them. I have fond feelings towards some of the characters in this book, because I've read the related books and liked the couples. I'm intrigued about Deacon's upcoming book.
Some notable moments:
"“But she did say we still need to work on boundaries. And not just mine with my parents, but with her and our relationship.” Ian laughed. “Yeah, I bet she did.” “Maybe I shouldn’t have told her thanks, I’m gonna go make you scream now,” Carter teased. Ian shuddered, but he was happy, anyway."
"“Are you saying that I love him?” Carter asked cautiously under his breath, as they approached the buffet line. Deacon shot him a look. “Did you not think you did?”"
Deacon is so relatable in this moment. He's basically saying, guys are trash but that food over there looks yummy! "“It’s pretty simple,” Carter said. “You meet the right person, and you don’t let them walk away. That’s all.” “Oh, that’s all,” Deacon retorted sarcastically. “Not sure there is a right person, but I do know there’s a turkey leg over there on the buffet, calling my name.”"
*FYI about steam: 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.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2024
Loved loved loved the beginning of this book.
This was really forbidden romance done right. And combining forbidden romance with forced proximity- it was so good. So much pining and longing and trying to resist each other. I loved it.
Once they got together and it stopped being forbidden it became a bit meh but still enjoyable.
The weird thing about this book though is the ending. There are so many unresolved side plots? It just ended and felt unfinished and left so many unanswered questions
This was really forbidden romance done right. And combining forbidden romance with forced proximity- it was so good. So much pining and longing and trying to resist each other. I loved it.
Once they got together and it stopped being forbidden it became a bit meh but still enjoyable.
The weird thing about this book though is the ending. There are so many unresolved side plots? It just ended and felt unfinished and left so many unanswered questions
October 26, 2023
I love Beth Bolden's football world!
Really enjoyed Carter and Ian together and finding out more about the notorious Mr Maxwell and what drives his behaviour, but all honesty I am just DYING to get to Grant and Deacon's book!
The bonus scene actually had me tear up because Deacon is my favourite character in this series and I need to know what happens like yesterday 😂.
Also really looking forward to the Christmas special with Jem 🎄
Really enjoyed Carter and Ian together and finding out more about the notorious Mr Maxwell and what drives his behaviour, but all honesty I am just DYING to get to Grant and Deacon's book!
The bonus scene actually had me tear up because Deacon is my favourite character in this series and I need to know what happens like yesterday 😂.
Also really looking forward to the Christmas special with Jem 🎄
October 25, 2023
I was looking forward to reading Carter's story as he was very present in the previous two books of this series and this novel didn't disappoint me a bit. Actually, it was wonderful and so much better than anything I might've thought it would be.
Carter had issues, soooo many issues. He had a problem dealing with his anger, something that he developed as a child and he was struggling to control it or deal with it the only way he knew how: sex. Ian wanted to be a sports agent so when the opportunity arose to work with the best sports agent ever, he took it. That meant having to live and deal with Carter twenty four hours/seven days a week, trying to prevent the football player from going into a sex frenzy every time he got angry.
I absolutely loved Carter, he was so real and certainly a mess, but he was honest and was determined to change. Meeting Ian was the best thing that could've happened to him and it gave Carter a powerful reason to become a better man. Ian was a good professional, but once he got to know the real Carter there was no way for him to ignore his feelings towards the football player. Ian was strong and supportive and I loved how he listened and helped Carter. They made a wonderful couple, each one perfect for the other.
This story was emotional and touching, with some hilarious moments usually involving Carter's teammates. Carter was a character with many traumas, but also with a profound sense of honesty that made him so appealing. Ian and Carter brought me to tears a couple of times, the author did a wonderful job describing their feelings and emotions in a way that it was easy to relate to both the MCs.
This novel is beautiful and special, it talks about overcoming your past and being hopeful. It was a great read and I can't wait for the last book of the series. I know it'll be just as wonderful.
Carter had issues, soooo many issues. He had a problem dealing with his anger, something that he developed as a child and he was struggling to control it or deal with it the only way he knew how: sex. Ian wanted to be a sports agent so when the opportunity arose to work with the best sports agent ever, he took it. That meant having to live and deal with Carter twenty four hours/seven days a week, trying to prevent the football player from going into a sex frenzy every time he got angry.
I absolutely loved Carter, he was so real and certainly a mess, but he was honest and was determined to change. Meeting Ian was the best thing that could've happened to him and it gave Carter a powerful reason to become a better man. Ian was a good professional, but once he got to know the real Carter there was no way for him to ignore his feelings towards the football player. Ian was strong and supportive and I loved how he listened and helped Carter. They made a wonderful couple, each one perfect for the other.
This story was emotional and touching, with some hilarious moments usually involving Carter's teammates. Carter was a character with many traumas, but also with a profound sense of honesty that made him so appealing. Ian and Carter brought me to tears a couple of times, the author did a wonderful job describing their feelings and emotions in a way that it was easy to relate to both the MCs.
This novel is beautiful and special, it talks about overcoming your past and being hopeful. It was a great read and I can't wait for the last book of the series. I know it'll be just as wonderful.
April 3, 2024
3.5⭐️
October 29, 2023
A MM football romance where the charismatic reformed playboy falls for his minder! Gosh, I was waiting for Carter's book! I love Carter & Ian! This team so f'ing lovely, like omg I love them all!
College kept me busy, but I did read this slowly, savoring it. I had so much fun, I never wanted it to end but I wanted that HEA too much lol.
Carter's the receiver in their (American) football team, he's charming, bright, so flirty, with a stubborn manipulative streak too 😏. But he's got a temper & used sex as a coping mechanism, but now it isn't working greatly...C wants to be better so he hired Alec, who in turn sends Ian to C 😉. C's got layers, like man, I loved getting to know him deeper! He's just so great, my fav 🤗, he got me unexpectedly emotional too.
Ian is professional but even he couldn't resist Carter, but gosh did he try! It was fun seeing C thaw his ice bit by bit, 1st seducing them ending up plain liking eachother. Ian's fierce (red-head 😉), then caring, protective, fights for C when he finds how good the guy actually is.
As Ian & Carter are rooming together, they're constantly around. Work, home. There are antics, talks, a friendship bloomed, a Chemistry that BURNED. Like they want, they know yet couldn't do anything due to the situations? RULES? Until they no longer can! I loved that once they're in, they're all in, no hiding either. So many things that is new to them, to Carter, but they handle all the troubles well, the temper, insecurities too. Plus, love me the vers steamy times 🔥.
I love their relationship, I was hooked with the story, I like this world. So excited for Deacon & Mr G's book next! But 1st up is Jem 😍.
Story ratings: Enjoyed—> 5+/5
POV: 3rd Person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & relationship: 5/5
2) The feels: (emoji)
3) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3/5
4) Levels: Mild Angst, So very Cute, Low Dark
5) Build up & Style: 4.8/5
College kept me busy, but I did read this slowly, savoring it. I had so much fun, I never wanted it to end but I wanted that HEA too much lol.
Carter's the receiver in their (American) football team, he's charming, bright, so flirty, with a stubborn manipulative streak too 😏. But he's got a temper & used sex as a coping mechanism, but now it isn't working greatly...C wants to be better so he hired Alec, who in turn sends Ian to C 😉. C's got layers, like man, I loved getting to know him deeper! He's just so great, my fav 🤗, he got me unexpectedly emotional too.
Ian is professional but even he couldn't resist Carter, but gosh did he try! It was fun seeing C thaw his ice bit by bit, 1st seducing them ending up plain liking eachother. Ian's fierce (red-head 😉), then caring, protective, fights for C when he finds how good the guy actually is.
As Ian & Carter are rooming together, they're constantly around. Work, home. There are antics, talks, a friendship bloomed, a Chemistry that BURNED. Like they want, they know yet couldn't do anything due to the situations? RULES? Until they no longer can! I loved that once they're in, they're all in, no hiding either. So many things that is new to them, to Carter, but they handle all the troubles well, the temper, insecurities too. Plus, love me the vers steamy times 🔥.
I love their relationship, I was hooked with the story, I like this world. So excited for Deacon & Mr G's book next! But 1st up is Jem 😍.
Story ratings: Enjoyed—> 5+/5
POV: 3rd Person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & relationship: 5/5
2) The feels: (emoji)
3) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3/5
4) Levels: Mild Angst, So very Cute, Low Dark
5) Build up & Style: 4.8/5
October 19, 2023
It is about time Carter realized that he could be his best self! I was wondering how and who would be able to bring out the best in him. Is his relationship with Ian professionally inappropriate? Yes, but inevitable and undeniable! I was glad it was a slow burn because it showed how much Carter did respect Ian and it showed that Ian did want to be a professional and succeed for himself as well as help Carter. Just so happens that Carter also helps Ian find his own confidence and figure out what he really wants in life. Can be read as a standalone romance but reading the series gives you a richer background that makes the romances even more satisfying.
October 26, 2023
3.5* somewhat upgraded to 4* because I love this author's writing so much.
I did not like that Carter's therapist was Ian's mother. It felt wrong and when they got together it should have definitely stopped. As it is, Ian's mother was sharing her notes (even if limited) with both her son and Carter's agent and it just felt wrong and unethical. Carter was aware and gave his OK to carrying on seeing her but your future mother in law should not know that much about you. Ever.
I did like Carter's growth. He was still the same goofy, egocentric bastard but being in his head was actually entertaining and at times quite sad. He just wanted to be loved and I'm glad he found it with Ian. Can't wait for Deacon's book next.
I did not like that Carter's therapist was Ian's mother. It felt wrong and when they got together it should have definitely stopped. As it is, Ian's mother was sharing her notes (even if limited) with both her son and Carter's agent and it just felt wrong and unethical. Carter was aware and gave his OK to carrying on seeing her but your future mother in law should not know that much about you. Ever.
I did like Carter's growth. He was still the same goofy, egocentric bastard but being in his head was actually entertaining and at times quite sad. He just wanted to be loved and I'm glad he found it with Ian. Can't wait for Deacon's book next.
October 19, 2023
Copy received via Neon Rainbow Reviews for an honest review
I know absolutely nothing about the NFL (except games take what it seems like a week to finish!), however I am loving this series by Beth Bolden.
I will admit, the premise of this, with a "sober companion" is one that I have not read before, but I really liked it being something so completely different to what we get in books.
I adore Carter and Ian. I just want to give Carter a big hug, tell him he is doing great. He has been in the background of things inthe previous books, but now is is time to shine - and shine he does.
I adored how Ian tries to deny Carter, how he knows what a bad idea it would be, but how he - eventually - goes for it anyway.
And most of all, I loved how supportive the rest of the Condors are of Carter. They could have discarded him and traded him like so many other teams have, but they believe in him and his talents, and you can see how great that makes Carter feel, how it makes him strive to do better.
And Carter was not the kind of man I thought he would be. I went in thinking he was just going to be this cocky jerk who would not take no for an answer, would badger Ian until he got his way, and I was so glad that was not the route Ms Bolden took him on.
Now I really, really need to know more about Deacon and Mr G!
I know absolutely nothing about the NFL (except games take what it seems like a week to finish!), however I am loving this series by Beth Bolden.
I will admit, the premise of this, with a "sober companion" is one that I have not read before, but I really liked it being something so completely different to what we get in books.
I adore Carter and Ian. I just want to give Carter a big hug, tell him he is doing great. He has been in the background of things inthe previous books, but now is is time to shine - and shine he does.
I adored how Ian tries to deny Carter, how he knows what a bad idea it would be, but how he - eventually - goes for it anyway.
And most of all, I loved how supportive the rest of the Condors are of Carter. They could have discarded him and traded him like so many other teams have, but they believe in him and his talents, and you can see how great that makes Carter feel, how it makes him strive to do better.
And Carter was not the kind of man I thought he would be. I went in thinking he was just going to be this cocky jerk who would not take no for an answer, would badger Ian until he got his way, and I was so glad that was not the route Ms Bolden took him on.
Now I really, really need to know more about Deacon and Mr G!
October 14, 2023
Carter is someone who either explodes or uses sex to cope with his anger, and he’s been traded 4 times in his short career.
He gets a new agent, Alec, who puts him in touch with a therapist, but he still isn’t managing, so he’s given a companion to watch him.
Ian has been a sober companion for 5 years, but wants to be an agent, so when Alec asks him to help Carter to prove himself, he happily agrees.
But, there’s the small detail that he’s also the therapist’s son, and when Carter starts taking about his attraction to Ian, it’s awkward. From there, many boundaries are crossed by all involved, though Ian does resist Carter initially.
There is true irony with Moira, the therapist, talking about Carter setting boundaries with his parents, as she regularly crosses them by sending reports to her son about their work because he’s supposed to be helping Carter.
They even tell each other about how weird some of it feels, then continue to keep everything the same, “trusting” that everyone will do the right thing.
For instance, Carter questions sharing some problems because it might look bad to Moira from the viewpoint of being his boyfriend’s mother, but is reassured she likes him being with Ian, so it’s OK.
Beth Bolden’s books are usually interesting and fun, but this one was a miss. The rest of the series is great, and I’m sure the last book, with Deacon and Mr. Green, will wrap up the series nicely.
I received this ARC for free and am providing my honest review in thanks.
He gets a new agent, Alec, who puts him in touch with a therapist, but he still isn’t managing, so he’s given a companion to watch him.
Ian has been a sober companion for 5 years, but wants to be an agent, so when Alec asks him to help Carter to prove himself, he happily agrees.
But, there’s the small detail that he’s also the therapist’s son, and when Carter starts taking about his attraction to Ian, it’s awkward. From there, many boundaries are crossed by all involved, though Ian does resist Carter initially.
There is true irony with Moira, the therapist, talking about Carter setting boundaries with his parents, as she regularly crosses them by sending reports to her son about their work because he’s supposed to be helping Carter.
They even tell each other about how weird some of it feels, then continue to keep everything the same, “trusting” that everyone will do the right thing.
For instance, Carter questions sharing some problems because it might look bad to Moira from the viewpoint of being his boyfriend’s mother, but is reassured she likes him being with Ian, so it’s OK.
Beth Bolden’s books are usually interesting and fun, but this one was a miss. The rest of the series is great, and I’m sure the last book, with Deacon and Mr. Green, will wrap up the series nicely.
I received this ARC for free and am providing my honest review in thanks.
November 11, 2023
Rough start at the beginning. I could not like and understand Carter and Ian was too kind. But the character development was there for carter and Ian was perfect for him. This was also very sweet.
January 12, 2025
I really liked Carter from the get go, so I'm happy he's getting a happy ending. And Ian and how he enters his life is an interesting yet appropriate choice. Not how I expected Carter to fall but I liked how it went in the end
December 7, 2025
Good grief. I knew I was going to like Carter's book. I knew that exploring his temper and flippant nature was going to reveal a multidimensional character that I was going to end up a big fan of.
The layers to Carter that we were able to marinate in over 400 pages made for a deep and touching story about a guy who needed to be shown what love really is. Getting to know him better (than how we've seen him in previous books) was easily done, and my appreciation for who he was at his core bloomed quickly and ferociously in my heart. I'm pretty convinced he'll remain my favorite character out of all of the series.
Ian. My god, Ian. This angel sent from heaven was the puzzle piece missing from Carter's soul. He was so incredibly patient and had almost perfect perception in regards to when and where he should confront certain topics with Carter. Not to mention, his mix of sugar and spice mirrored Carter exploring romantic love vs the sex he always had a full grasp on. The two of them had nearly unmatched chemistry compared to the previous couples.
My recommendation comes as a 10/10. The importance given to mental health and being part of a team (in many aspects of life) solidifies this as a great book, in my mind. Yes, it's fun and flirty, but it also gets appropriately serious about helping Carter come to terms with what he deserves in life. As a series, it just keeps getting better and better!
The layers to Carter that we were able to marinate in over 400 pages made for a deep and touching story about a guy who needed to be shown what love really is. Getting to know him better (than how we've seen him in previous books) was easily done, and my appreciation for who he was at his core bloomed quickly and ferociously in my heart. I'm pretty convinced he'll remain my favorite character out of all of the series.
Ian. My god, Ian. This angel sent from heaven was the puzzle piece missing from Carter's soul. He was so incredibly patient and had almost perfect perception in regards to when and where he should confront certain topics with Carter. Not to mention, his mix of sugar and spice mirrored Carter exploring romantic love vs the sex he always had a full grasp on. The two of them had nearly unmatched chemistry compared to the previous couples.
My recommendation comes as a 10/10. The importance given to mental health and being part of a team (in many aspects of life) solidifies this as a great book, in my mind. Yes, it's fun and flirty, but it also gets appropriately serious about helping Carter come to terms with what he deserves in life. As a series, it just keeps getting better and better!
July 26, 2024
Oh what to say about our dear Carter and his scandalous actions. For him to finally settle down with one guy was nothing short of miraculous and interesting to experience the journey. Absolutely loved the inclusion of therapy, too! There is so much stigma surrounding this tool that a lot still go without due to the shame attached. Beth brought another light to this world with her inclusiveness.
Ian was the most patient and kind man, with his eyes on Carter. The slow pace of their relationship development gave them both the opportunity to grow into something more. Granted that Beth normally gets into the role of smut sooner, but there was a lot of overcoming needed before jumping into bed with the other. I’m genuinely happy Carter was able to find his forever with Ian, and excited to see them in future stories!
Ian was the most patient and kind man, with his eyes on Carter. The slow pace of their relationship development gave them both the opportunity to grow into something more. Granted that Beth normally gets into the role of smut sooner, but there was a lot of overcoming needed before jumping into bed with the other. I’m genuinely happy Carter was able to find his forever with Ian, and excited to see them in future stories!
October 22, 2023
The way I’ve been waiting for Carter’s story is no joke. He’s a big presence in this series with a supersize personality, and the previous books made it clear he has a lot going on from unhealthy coping mechanisms to anger management issues. He’s had a rough ride, bouncing from team to team, never quite finding the place he fits. Could the Condors finally be it?
To save his career, Carter wants to change his behavior on and off the field. He enlists the help of his agent, teammates, and the Condors’ staff, and much of their plan is as expected, however, there’s one surprise — Ian. He’s Carter’s personal companion, essentially serving as his conscience 24/7, keeping him in line and helping him make better decisions.
At its heart, Carter and Ian’s story is a forced proximity, opposites attract, forbidden romance with a healthy amount of personal growth and mental health rep. Their professional arrangement means they’re together all the time - at work, at home, in public, etc., making their obvious attraction to each other inconvenient at best. It adds a layer of sexual tension to their interactions that, along with the slow burn and build of their emotional connection, is absolutely fantastic and red hot.
Carter’s personal growth in this one is everything. I enjoyed how everything centered on his past and journey to healing, although I wish some aspects of his treatment had been handled differently and the storyline with his parents occurred sooner. Overall, the pace and sequence of events makes sense and results in really amazing character development.
Because of the way Beth Bolden builds characters across the series, I recommend reading both The Star and The Game before diving into The Score. Those stories provide key information about not just Carter but the entire Condors’ team dynamic that enhances the overall understanding and appreciation of Carter’s journey.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
To save his career, Carter wants to change his behavior on and off the field. He enlists the help of his agent, teammates, and the Condors’ staff, and much of their plan is as expected, however, there’s one surprise — Ian. He’s Carter’s personal companion, essentially serving as his conscience 24/7, keeping him in line and helping him make better decisions.
At its heart, Carter and Ian’s story is a forced proximity, opposites attract, forbidden romance with a healthy amount of personal growth and mental health rep. Their professional arrangement means they’re together all the time - at work, at home, in public, etc., making their obvious attraction to each other inconvenient at best. It adds a layer of sexual tension to their interactions that, along with the slow burn and build of their emotional connection, is absolutely fantastic and red hot.
Carter’s personal growth in this one is everything. I enjoyed how everything centered on his past and journey to healing, although I wish some aspects of his treatment had been handled differently and the storyline with his parents occurred sooner. Overall, the pace and sequence of events makes sense and results in really amazing character development.
Because of the way Beth Bolden builds characters across the series, I recommend reading both The Star and The Game before diving into The Score. Those stories provide key information about not just Carter but the entire Condors’ team dynamic that enhances the overall understanding and appreciation of Carter’s journey.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
October 31, 2023
Once again this author presents us an unexpected trope: the intellectual se*ual attraction - how do you learn to enjoy hitting the break when all you really want to do is jump at maximum speed into bed? If you look at it from a professional way, Ian completely failed his job! But maybe as he said quite a few time, nobody, not even Carter himself, has looked at Carter beyond the facade, the egotistical famous football player. And all he really needed was someone to redirect all his heat, his intensity to more productive and healing behaviours.
A very hawt read, with quite a lot of introspection. Great addition to Beth Bolden’s world of incredibly lovable couples.
A very hawt read, with quite a lot of introspection. Great addition to Beth Bolden’s world of incredibly lovable couples.
October 27, 2023
What a fantastic book!
I love it, I love it. What characters... Carter.. Carter was my favorite from the start and I was not desapointed with his book. Ian is the perfect match to Carter's ego, always supportive, at first because it was his job but after some time because he fell in love.
Can Carter stay stable enough?
I highly recommend this bokk and can't wait for the next one
I love it, I love it. What characters... Carter.. Carter was my favorite from the start and I was not desapointed with his book. Ian is the perfect match to Carter's ego, always supportive, at first because it was his job but after some time because he fell in love.
Can Carter stay stable enough?
I highly recommend this bokk and can't wait for the next one
October 26, 2023
I don't know. I found the therapist sharing reports, and the way she spoke to Ian, really uncomfortable. Also got pretty bored towards the end.
December 4, 2023
I’d been so excited for Carter’s book and was not disappointed! 5 stars all round for Carter and Ian.
I cannot wait for Grant & Deacon’s book - I need it in my hands ASAP 🙌
I cannot wait for Grant & Deacon’s book - I need it in my hands ASAP 🙌
October 16, 2023
4,5-5⭐️
That book was exactly what I wanted it to be !! I loved Carter from the very first one and I was excited to know what was happening in his head, to understand his attitude, from what he comes from. Ian was so perfect for him, reliable, understanding, loving, everything Carter was not used to.
I loved the dynamic, the longing, the intense chemistry between the two but also the inner fight to not succumb from both of them.
I enjoyed it very much, and I’ve been loving this series very very much 🥰
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Review, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
That book was exactly what I wanted it to be !! I loved Carter from the very first one and I was excited to know what was happening in his head, to understand his attitude, from what he comes from. Ian was so perfect for him, reliable, understanding, loving, everything Carter was not used to.
I loved the dynamic, the longing, the intense chemistry between the two but also the inner fight to not succumb from both of them.
I enjoyed it very much, and I’ve been loving this series very very much 🥰
I received an ARC Copy of this book from Neon Rainbow Review, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
September 7, 2023
Excuse me, how perfect are Carter and Ian?! I mean, how huggable is Carter?!
October 23, 2023
After reading Micah and Beck's story, I wasn't sure if I was going to continue this series. Then I saw the next book was about Carter, and I just had to read his story. I loved the first half of the book. There was so much pining and tension, and it was just *chef's kiss* But once these two got together, the book seemed to drag. The second half of the book did have some character and relationship building, but it was a lot of spice and I found myself skimming a lot of it.
This was a solid book. I enjoyed the first half much more than the second, but I am glad I continued with the series. Bolden's characters get me hooked every time, and I'm excited to finally get Deacon's story next year
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Book Promotions and this is my honest review
This was a solid book. I enjoyed the first half much more than the second, but I am glad I continued with the series. Bolden's characters get me hooked every time, and I'm excited to finally get Deacon's story next year
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Book Promotions and this is my honest review
April 26, 2024
Call me a hypocrite, call me insufferable (you'd be right on both accounts), but if terrible books have absurd miscommunication that makes you want to bang your hand on a wall, then this book had whatever the exact opposite of that is. Which, as it turns out, is equally as frustrating to read. Nobody is this up-front, honest, and clear in their intentions.
BE SO FOR REAL... or be less real. I don't know! I'm pissed.
BE SO FOR REAL... or be less real. I don't know! I'm pissed.
October 27, 2023
Check out our full post for THE SCORE on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆☆
THE SCORE is the third book in the Charleston Condors series. It can be read as a standalone but reads so much better if you read in the order that the author intended.
Carter Maxwell has been on four teams within three seasons. He's a great football player, that's not the issue. The issue is his personal life and his ability to control his anger. When he realizes he needs to make a change if he wants to continue his career, the first thing he does is change his agent to Alec Mitchell. Alec is in L.A., Carter is in Charleston, that's not going to work. Alec needs someone there with him daily. Ian works as a sober companion in L.A. but wants to get into sports management. Alec and Ian come to a deal – if Ian is with Carter 24/7 to help him make better decisions, Alec will train him to essentially be him, the next great agent. Ian jumps at the chance. The one rule: don't sleep with Carter. Carter and his flirty ways make that almost impossible not to do.
I loved how Ian was patient with Carter and let him work his way through his issues in therapy and was there for him when no one else ways. They say family is who you make it, not blood, and the team and Ian were just that for Carter. He needed to know he came first, and Ian made sure he knew for Ian he did. Such a sweet, sexy read. I absolutely love Beth Bolden's football reads. She can write football like no other. I am extremely sad there is only one more book in this series, but ecstatic we finally get Deacon and Grant's story.
If you don't ever read the bonus scenes linked in the back of the book, you don't want to miss this one!
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the third book in the series – and whilst I think that you would understand more of the background to the Condors team and the players, I also think you could read this as a standalone and really enjoy it.
Carter was on the team last year, so even though he was not involved in any of the misbehaviour, he is worried about how he is seen, and does a great job of behaving like he cares not one jot about the world, or even really himself – other than staying on the team and playing his best. And he is good, of that he is very confident. In fact, he has just persuaded one of the very best agents to take him on. Alec agrees with one condition – he has a minder to ensure he follows the rules. Just wait till you read what they are!
Ian is the man who volunteers to keep Carter in line, as he wants a chance at being trained to be an agent by Alec. So they make a deal and... well, the rest is in the pages of this very enjoyable read. Never did Ian expect rule one to become a problem, and we get to enjoy the heat between him and Carter reach explosive levels. Alongside that passion, though, is the birth of a lovely, calm, and meaningful friendship. The two, hand-in-hand, make for a fun, sexy, and highly entertaining story.
There is a goodly amount of football, interaction with the other players, and some strong hints as to who will next feature in a Condors' book of their own – all of which makes for another great installment, enjoy!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
October 28, 2023
great characters, well written with heartwarming content
Rating: 4.5 🌈
I may have become disillusioned with the RL game of football but not with Beth Bolden’s fantastic group of connected football series. They continue to keep me emotionally invested in each and every team and player.
The Charleston Condors are the third team and series represented in the group and The Score signals the penultimate storyline as this wonderful series comes to an end.
Carter Maxwell is a Condor that’s made indelible appearances in every book so far, usually because he’s happily hitting on the men in almost every scene he appears in. Not that anyone takes him seriously. Funny, handsome, a sexual hound, a “player” as they call it, and a star on the field. All very surface level things.
Now Bolden does her best job in bringing us a man in trouble. One filled with rage and long simmering resentment left by dysfunctional parenting that bordered on abuse, neglect, and internalized guilt that’s affecting his life on and off the field. Carter needs and finally asks for help.
And gets it. In several ways.
In an agent who works for him, one who hires a son and his mother to help Carter get his life together.
The son is Ian Parker. A well known LA sober coach whose goal is to become a professional agent like Alec, he’s hired by Alec to be a companion/coach for Carter. The whole steamy dynamic between Ian and Carter that began upon their initial encounter is fully realized. Bolden creates such heat between them immediately that you wonder how the rest of the story is going to unfold. Including the no sex part.
The other aspect I was unexpected and so well thought out was the therapist/therapy sessions with Carter and Moira, his therapist. Who is also Ian’s mother. Bolden’s work here is nuanced and thoughtful. Both on how these sessions provoke a discussion and how they affect the life of Carter because he’s open to the dialogue that’s happening.
And for all the situations that are also involved when two people are related and in the positions they have taken on in their respective lives. In other cases, this could have been a disaster. That was only marginally addressed.
Now to what Bolden’s spectacular at. That’s bringing the game of football alive on the page. Whether it’s team dynamics, inter team chemistry, game planning and then the all important explosive on the field action, it’s brilliantly described and vibrantly illustrated in the scenes. Those pigskins soar, every hit hurts.
Win or lose, this author carries us with her players and team with a passion.
And that’s why I’ll continue to read about football and her teams. Because she makes me continue to care.
A few quibbles. Ian’s career development wasn’t really explored towards the end. Did he really want the job? Was he a part of Alec’s team? Not sure what happened with that.
There’s a sense of HFN here as they are getting settled into their new roles as well as their relationship. And Carter’s ability to get a handle on his temper is new.
I’m looking forward to the finale story with Deacon and Mr C. And if there’s more football in Bolden’s future, writing wise.
I’m definitely recommending the Charleston Condors series as well as all of Bolden’s connected books. That includes The Score! It should be read in the order that the series is written for relationships and team development.
Charleston Condors:
- [x] The Star #1
- [x] The Game #2
- [x] The Score #3
- [ ] The Play #4 - March 31, 2024
Bolden’s connected Football series in order they are written:
- [x] The Riptide
- [x] Miami Piranhas
- [x] Charleston Condors
Rating: 4.5 🌈
I may have become disillusioned with the RL game of football but not with Beth Bolden’s fantastic group of connected football series. They continue to keep me emotionally invested in each and every team and player.
The Charleston Condors are the third team and series represented in the group and The Score signals the penultimate storyline as this wonderful series comes to an end.
Carter Maxwell is a Condor that’s made indelible appearances in every book so far, usually because he’s happily hitting on the men in almost every scene he appears in. Not that anyone takes him seriously. Funny, handsome, a sexual hound, a “player” as they call it, and a star on the field. All very surface level things.
Now Bolden does her best job in bringing us a man in trouble. One filled with rage and long simmering resentment left by dysfunctional parenting that bordered on abuse, neglect, and internalized guilt that’s affecting his life on and off the field. Carter needs and finally asks for help.
And gets it. In several ways.
In an agent who works for him, one who hires a son and his mother to help Carter get his life together.
The son is Ian Parker. A well known LA sober coach whose goal is to become a professional agent like Alec, he’s hired by Alec to be a companion/coach for Carter. The whole steamy dynamic between Ian and Carter that began upon their initial encounter is fully realized. Bolden creates such heat between them immediately that you wonder how the rest of the story is going to unfold. Including the no sex part.
The other aspect I was unexpected and so well thought out was the therapist/therapy sessions with Carter and Moira, his therapist. Who is also Ian’s mother. Bolden’s work here is nuanced and thoughtful. Both on how these sessions provoke a discussion and how they affect the life of Carter because he’s open to the dialogue that’s happening.
And for all the situations that are also involved when two people are related and in the positions they have taken on in their respective lives. In other cases, this could have been a disaster. That was only marginally addressed.
Now to what Bolden’s spectacular at. That’s bringing the game of football alive on the page. Whether it’s team dynamics, inter team chemistry, game planning and then the all important explosive on the field action, it’s brilliantly described and vibrantly illustrated in the scenes. Those pigskins soar, every hit hurts.
Win or lose, this author carries us with her players and team with a passion.
And that’s why I’ll continue to read about football and her teams. Because she makes me continue to care.
A few quibbles. Ian’s career development wasn’t really explored towards the end. Did he really want the job? Was he a part of Alec’s team? Not sure what happened with that.
There’s a sense of HFN here as they are getting settled into their new roles as well as their relationship. And Carter’s ability to get a handle on his temper is new.
I’m looking forward to the finale story with Deacon and Mr C. And if there’s more football in Bolden’s future, writing wise.
I’m definitely recommending the Charleston Condors series as well as all of Bolden’s connected books. That includes The Score! It should be read in the order that the series is written for relationships and team development.
Charleston Condors:
- [x] The Star #1
- [x] The Game #2
- [x] The Score #3
- [ ] The Play #4 - March 31, 2024
Bolden’s connected Football series in order they are written:
- [x] The Riptide
- [x] Miami Piranhas
- [x] Charleston Condors
October 19, 2023
The Score by Beth Bolden is the 3rd book in her Charleston Condors series. I suggest that you read the others first as they give insight into the team and characters that are included in this story. Carter Maxwell was a wide receiver for the Charleston Condors NFL football team. He was very good at his position but he had been traded 4 times in 3 years because of his actions, mainly his temper. He had had a rough childhood with uncaring parents and he never felt quite good enough and that losing was his fault. So when his temper overcame everything he lashed out quite publicly and then tried to overcome it with drinking and finding release with whoever would go home with him. He had come to a crossroads after a game with the Piranhas and the Condor’s owner sat down with him and suggested he change agents to be with Alec Mitchell who was one of the best. When he did this Alec had Ian Parker go to be with him at all times to help him keep the rules that were set for him. Ian was a sober companion who stayed with many influential people and movie stars to help them with their sobriety. Alec thought Ian could do the same with Carter but to help him control his temper. Also, Ian’s mother, Moira, was Carter’s therapist. Ian agreed to do this because what he really wanted to be was an agent like Alec and Alec said if he could complete this assignment, without getting entangled with Carter, he would be his mentor and help him achieve his dream. Unfortunately, Carter wanted to hit on him the minute he met him and Ian had to do everything he could to douse those flames because he was attracted to Carter too. The first half of the story contains scenes of football games as well as Ian trying to not act on his attraction and Carter trying to control his temper with help from Ian and Moira. Carter was also learning that his teammates had his back, something he never had with his family. Things finally came to a head and they had a love scene, which Ian had to report to Alec. Luckily Carter had been making some real changes in his life that was helping both his temper and his playing so Alec thought it was a good thing and said it could continue. That led to more hot and steamy love scenes and both of them falling deeply and truly in love. I really enjoyed this story, as I have the others in the series. Carter had many strikes against him, yet he was such a good guy who everyone liked and it was very satisfying to see him overcome his past and his temper to become the man that Ian loved. Ian was a sweetheart, calm and competent, and willing to do whatever it took to help and love Carter, even when Carter did some stupid things. I also liked how their love developed and deepened which was something both of them had never felt before. The football scenes were often intense yet you couldn’t help but like the team and its members. Carter’s teammates were also great, sometimes funny and snarky, but always had Carter’s and the team’s best interests in mind. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about men who play football and have a past they need to overcome. It does not disappoint.
October 25, 2023
I've read all of her football stories and I have to say that, to this day, I still don't understand the sport! But... But I love her books! And although I have my favorites, I love her characters, every single one of them! So as you can guess, I loved this book too.
As the description says, Carter has trouble controlling his temper, and his coping mechanisms are sex or breaking anything he can get his hands on, but mostly...sex. He doesn't discriminate. He likes everyone, everyone attracts him, but lately, he begins to realize that even choosing someone to have sex with is something mechanical, too easy, and that it brings nothing more than a moment of gratification. Added to this, he is finally on a team where he wants to stay. And more importantly, on a team where they want him to stay. He likes his teammates, and his teammates like him. He really doesn't want to lose that, and the only way is to change and learn to deal with his problem. To do this, he seeks out Alec, his new agent, who gives him not only a therapist, but a sober companion to help with that change.
What he didn't expect was the kind of impact that companion was going to have on his life. For the first time, Carter finds himself drawn to someone who is capable (at least at first) of saying no to him. For the first time, he meets someone who puts his well-being above all else, someone who wants to see him succeed, and more importantly than all that, someone who sees beneath all the layers that disguise the vulnerable part that he hides from everyone else. Someone who sees him as a person, and not as someone superficial who just wants to have fun. And to Carter, that means everything.
Ian wants to leave his job behind and become an agent, and he wants Alec to mentor him, so he accepts his job offer to help Carter improve his life. He feels self-assured, confident that he has what it takes to resist the allure Carter seems to have. He has the experience, and the tools necessary to help Carter without falling under his charm. After all, he worked for many big stars and never, even once, failed in his work. But he didn't count on the impact of finally being in front of Carter and feeling that charisma, that charm directly focused on him and only him. And little by little his walls begin to crack until he can't help but fall for the man.
Luckily, he doesn't fall alone. Carter is there, at the same time, ready to do anything to show Ian how different and special Ian is to him, how different from all those people from his past who never even touched him superficially. And despite the fears he feels of not being worthy enough for Ian, he is willing to try anything to build a life with him. And those fears and feelings are mutual.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I think that once they crossed the line and decided to be more than "fake" boyfriends", Moira should have stopped being his therapist, and I'm surprised that neither Alec or Ian saw it as necessary. Or for that matter, Moira herself.
The Score is a story full of funny moments - after all, it's Carter - and some really sexy, hot ones. The sexual tension grows little by little until it is almost unbearable, but also, when it ends up exploding, it is not only sex for them, but you can also feel the emotional bond that unites them, which makes the experience richer and deeper.
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
As the description says, Carter has trouble controlling his temper, and his coping mechanisms are sex or breaking anything he can get his hands on, but mostly...sex. He doesn't discriminate. He likes everyone, everyone attracts him, but lately, he begins to realize that even choosing someone to have sex with is something mechanical, too easy, and that it brings nothing more than a moment of gratification. Added to this, he is finally on a team where he wants to stay. And more importantly, on a team where they want him to stay. He likes his teammates, and his teammates like him. He really doesn't want to lose that, and the only way is to change and learn to deal with his problem. To do this, he seeks out Alec, his new agent, who gives him not only a therapist, but a sober companion to help with that change.
What he didn't expect was the kind of impact that companion was going to have on his life. For the first time, Carter finds himself drawn to someone who is capable (at least at first) of saying no to him. For the first time, he meets someone who puts his well-being above all else, someone who wants to see him succeed, and more importantly than all that, someone who sees beneath all the layers that disguise the vulnerable part that he hides from everyone else. Someone who sees him as a person, and not as someone superficial who just wants to have fun. And to Carter, that means everything.
Ian wants to leave his job behind and become an agent, and he wants Alec to mentor him, so he accepts his job offer to help Carter improve his life. He feels self-assured, confident that he has what it takes to resist the allure Carter seems to have. He has the experience, and the tools necessary to help Carter without falling under his charm. After all, he worked for many big stars and never, even once, failed in his work. But he didn't count on the impact of finally being in front of Carter and feeling that charisma, that charm directly focused on him and only him. And little by little his walls begin to crack until he can't help but fall for the man.
Luckily, he doesn't fall alone. Carter is there, at the same time, ready to do anything to show Ian how different and special Ian is to him, how different from all those people from his past who never even touched him superficially. And despite the fears he feels of not being worthy enough for Ian, he is willing to try anything to build a life with him. And those fears and feelings are mutual.
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I think that once they crossed the line and decided to be more than "fake" boyfriends", Moira should have stopped being his therapist, and I'm surprised that neither Alec or Ian saw it as necessary. Or for that matter, Moira herself.
The Score is a story full of funny moments - after all, it's Carter - and some really sexy, hot ones. The sexual tension grows little by little until it is almost unbearable, but also, when it ends up exploding, it is not only sex for them, but you can also feel the emotional bond that unites them, which makes the experience richer and deeper.
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
November 10, 2023
3.5 stars
Let me just say it up front as this is coming from someone who lives in a state where football is everything, I’m not a fan of the sport or rather I’m not a fan of NFL players who behave badly and often get away with it. While Carter’s behavior didn’t break any laws, I still have issues with a grown man throwing fits and then indulging in ridiculous behavior that fans especially kids have to see “reported” by every sports “journalist.” And yes, I blame the media as much as the athlete. So my enjoyment of this book is probably a bit tainted by my personal issues with man-baby NFL players in general. That said, I did find Carter adorable at times and I was glad he signed with an agent who gives a damn and one that basically told him he needed a therapist and one that after his last fit and escapade, landed him with Ian as his minder/companion so to speak and that set up the forbidden angle of this story very well.
I did feel like Carter put in the work to be a better version of himself and that landing with the Condors; a team with a new owner, new coach, and players who actually like Carter was a good thing for him. Carter had issues stemming from a less than stellar childhood and parents who didn’t understand him and didn’t have time for him which made him angry and taught him that acting out got attention even if it was bad attention. I felt Moria, his therapist was really good for him BUT I wasn’t happy with the fact she was Ian’s mother and even after they began a relationship she didn’t tell him she could no longer be his therapist. It was kind of weird that Ian had access to her notes on his sessions although he said he didn’t read them “in depth” and Carter discussing their relationship with his mother was just a big no.
I loved that Ian right away figured out there was way more to Carter than what the media reported on and that he was a good person that just needed time to figure out in place in the world. Carter’s metamorphosis was beautiful to watch and I grew to really like his character as this book went on.
Seeing all the other characters from previous books was an added bonus and watching Carter realize how much he valued his teammates and how much he wanted to propel the team just not his career was a thing of beauty.
I loved the beginning of this book; the want between them, the glances, the little touches and I was happy they got together, but I felt it was a bit too easy for someone like Carter who enjoyed excess in all things.
The Score was a good addition to this series and while not my favorite, I wouldn’t have missed it for anything.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Let me just say it up front as this is coming from someone who lives in a state where football is everything, I’m not a fan of the sport or rather I’m not a fan of NFL players who behave badly and often get away with it. While Carter’s behavior didn’t break any laws, I still have issues with a grown man throwing fits and then indulging in ridiculous behavior that fans especially kids have to see “reported” by every sports “journalist.” And yes, I blame the media as much as the athlete. So my enjoyment of this book is probably a bit tainted by my personal issues with man-baby NFL players in general. That said, I did find Carter adorable at times and I was glad he signed with an agent who gives a damn and one that basically told him he needed a therapist and one that after his last fit and escapade, landed him with Ian as his minder/companion so to speak and that set up the forbidden angle of this story very well.
I did feel like Carter put in the work to be a better version of himself and that landing with the Condors; a team with a new owner, new coach, and players who actually like Carter was a good thing for him. Carter had issues stemming from a less than stellar childhood and parents who didn’t understand him and didn’t have time for him which made him angry and taught him that acting out got attention even if it was bad attention. I felt Moria, his therapist was really good for him BUT I wasn’t happy with the fact she was Ian’s mother and even after they began a relationship she didn’t tell him she could no longer be his therapist. It was kind of weird that Ian had access to her notes on his sessions although he said he didn’t read them “in depth” and Carter discussing their relationship with his mother was just a big no.
I loved that Ian right away figured out there was way more to Carter than what the media reported on and that he was a good person that just needed time to figure out in place in the world. Carter’s metamorphosis was beautiful to watch and I grew to really like his character as this book went on.
Seeing all the other characters from previous books was an added bonus and watching Carter realize how much he valued his teammates and how much he wanted to propel the team just not his career was a thing of beauty.
I loved the beginning of this book; the want between them, the glances, the little touches and I was happy they got together, but I felt it was a bit too easy for someone like Carter who enjoyed excess in all things.
The Score was a good addition to this series and while not my favorite, I wouldn’t have missed it for anything.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
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