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The Canary Cowards
From Author Jescie Hall comes a compelling and angst-filled love story that will pull at your heartstrings and never let go.
"Occasionally, we all lack the courage to embrace the torture that is love."
Dylan
As a proud physiotherapist fresh out of school, I never imagined falling for a client. Especially not fallen football star, Lake Decker. His over-confident, broody attitude has me biting my tongue and doing whatever it takes to keep this job and support my secrets. Secrets Lake keeps pushing me to unravel.
Lake
I don't fall for women. Women fall for me. I'm Lake Decker, best running back in the league. Former. After a debilitating injury forced me to step back from my budding career, the last thing I thought I'd be doing is drooling at the feet of my stale-looking therapist. But her saucy attitude, strict professionalism, and the occasional shiner have my curiosities piqued. One thing is certain, we both know how to act tough in the face of adversity, but at our core, we're nothing but a couple of cowards.
"Occasionally, we all lack the courage to embrace the torture that is love."
Dylan
As a proud physiotherapist fresh out of school, I never imagined falling for a client. Especially not fallen football star, Lake Decker. His over-confident, broody attitude has me biting my tongue and doing whatever it takes to keep this job and support my secrets. Secrets Lake keeps pushing me to unravel.
Lake
I don't fall for women. Women fall for me. I'm Lake Decker, best running back in the league. Former. After a debilitating injury forced me to step back from my budding career, the last thing I thought I'd be doing is drooling at the feet of my stale-looking therapist. But her saucy attitude, strict professionalism, and the occasional shiner have my curiosities piqued. One thing is certain, we both know how to act tough in the face of adversity, but at our core, we're nothing but a couple of cowards.
540 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
888 people are currently reading
10962 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,160 reviews
December 24, 2024
DNF @ 38% when the Black side character named Candy walked into the room with an actual bucket of fried chicken, asked if he could invite some “lil honey’s” (women) upstairs because he was “hungry for a little white meat” and then proceeded to feed one of the white girls said chicken while his friend watched and said “Candy has weird kinks”
?????
Idk if I read the same book as some of yall!
?????
Idk if I read the same book as some of yall!
December 24, 2024
The racial stereotypes in this book immediately made me DNF. As a black woman, the way the author portrayed Kane was disgusting and shows how racist she is. I don’t know how there’s so many five star reviews considering this isn’t normal and an extremely unnecessary part of the “plot” but if you can ignore blatant racism, then you’re part of the problem too. The author was made aware of the way she portrayed that character in a negative way by ARC readers yet she made no changes. Here are some excerpts if you want to know what i’m talking about,
“Yes, he's nicknamed Candy. His real name is Kane, hence why Candy just stuck. He tries to convince the team that the plethora of women who've tasted his chocolate lollipop gave him the name. Sweet as candy, he says”
“Candy walks in with a bucket of chicken on his hip and a bag on his other hand”
“"Then you won't mind if these lil' honeys downstairs wanna come up?"”
“He laughs. "What?! They're everywhere man, and I've been hungry for a little white meat," he points to the bucket of chicken. "These thighs and breasts aren't cuttin' it. Yo man is starvin." He licks his lips and rubs his hands together.”
“Candy's got the girl taking a bite of chicken off the bone as he holds it above her. My face distorts as the greasy chicken slides across her face, her teeth gnawing at the hanging meat. "Gotta clean that bone, girl," he comments with a smirk, teeth pressed into his bottom lip as he watches her.”
“"Fuck outta here, white boy." He stands from his seat. "You can have your little stallion. I'ma give her this Dragon."”
“Yes, he's nicknamed Candy. His real name is Kane, hence why Candy just stuck. He tries to convince the team that the plethora of women who've tasted his chocolate lollipop gave him the name. Sweet as candy, he says”
“Candy walks in with a bucket of chicken on his hip and a bag on his other hand”
“"Then you won't mind if these lil' honeys downstairs wanna come up?"”
“He laughs. "What?! They're everywhere man, and I've been hungry for a little white meat," he points to the bucket of chicken. "These thighs and breasts aren't cuttin' it. Yo man is starvin." He licks his lips and rubs his hands together.”
“Candy's got the girl taking a bite of chicken off the bone as he holds it above her. My face distorts as the greasy chicken slides across her face, her teeth gnawing at the hanging meat. "Gotta clean that bone, girl," he comments with a smirk, teeth pressed into his bottom lip as he watches her.”
“"Fuck outta here, white boy." He stands from his seat. "You can have your little stallion. I'ma give her this Dragon."”
November 8, 2024
was the couple cute in this book yes. what i didn’t like was the only person of color in this book being written so poorly and this author was clearly stereotyping people of color. the things this character was saying the way he was being described was so weird. please don’t write about people of color if you aren’t going to do it right.
October 24, 2023
DNF 10%
I just cannot get past how disgusting this MMC is. First he's mad the PT he hired is a woman. Then he explains he hates working with women because they all just want to fuck him (obviously). He assumes she's a lesbian because she's such a raging bitch. His main reason for starting to respect her is because her nail polish is chipped (unlike every other woman in the world who has a perfect manicure she's afraid of ruining, because they're all shallow bitches). Repeatedly describes FMC as "aggressive" because she expressed that she was unwilling to put up with his overt and unprompted disrespect (despite her being a professional he hired). Despite thinking she looks like a "homeless lesbian" he thinks about little else other than fucking her.
In no universe am I willing to put up with reading about a man this blatantly misogynistic, homophobic, entitled, disrespectful, and selfish unless it's about him suffering deeply for his actions. I don't care how tragic his backstory is, this man does not deserve to get laid.
I just cannot get past how disgusting this MMC is. First he's mad the PT he hired is a woman. Then he explains he hates working with women because they all just want to fuck him (obviously). He assumes she's a lesbian because she's such a raging bitch. His main reason for starting to respect her is because her nail polish is chipped (unlike every other woman in the world who has a perfect manicure she's afraid of ruining, because they're all shallow bitches). Repeatedly describes FMC as "aggressive" because she expressed that she was unwilling to put up with his overt and unprompted disrespect (despite her being a professional he hired). Despite thinking she looks like a "homeless lesbian" he thinks about little else other than fucking her.
In no universe am I willing to put up with reading about a man this blatantly misogynistic, homophobic, entitled, disrespectful, and selfish unless it's about him suffering deeply for his actions. I don't care how tragic his backstory is, this man does not deserve to get laid.
December 25, 2024
Yikes at the random racist stereotypes.
September 25, 2023
4 🏎️ 🏈👩⚕️🛞🌟💛💛🌟s❣️
I wasn’t immersed in the beginning (15%), however after that point I loved Dylan and Lake’s journey and I was very invested in it.
Dylan and Lake shared a great banter and chemistry. Their connection was wonderful and their story very heartfelt.
Dylan’s brother, Colin was the brightest star and touched my heart deeply!! One of my favourite moments was when he fixed the flat tyre!!! 🤩
Dylan and Lake’s story has a hea with an amazing epilogue.
However, there is a cliffhanger in the end regarding the appearance of a brand new and unpredictable character!!!
Can’t wait for the next book!!!!!!! 😱😱
I wasn’t immersed in the beginning (15%), however after that point I loved Dylan and Lake’s journey and I was very invested in it.
Dylan and Lake shared a great banter and chemistry. Their connection was wonderful and their story very heartfelt.
Dylan’s brother, Colin was the brightest star and touched my heart deeply!! One of my favourite moments was when he fixed the flat tyre!!! 🤩
Dylan and Lake’s story has a hea with an amazing epilogue.
However, there is a cliffhanger in the end regarding the appearance of a brand new and unpredictable character!!!
Can’t wait for the next book!!!!!!! 😱😱
September 12, 2023
5 Jeff Gordon Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
There is something truly amazing about Jescie Hall's writing, and that is her versatility. Having read That Sik Luv, which is probably the darkest and spiciest book I have read, I wasn't sure what to expect with the Canary Cowards.
I'm not a "typical" sports romance reader. My go-to is typically dark and mostly fantasy...So I went in completely blind, and BOY was I not ready for how this book would affect me. This was a beautiful, emotional, raw depiction of two broken characters who have to work through numerous struggles and past trauma. Both need to learn to open their hearts to move forward. It is about vulnerability. It is about acceptance. It's about learning to ask for help when needed and it's about learning not to be a coward.
I think this book impacted me more than I thought it would as I saw myself and my insecurities in both Lake and Dylan. How each of these characters face their obstacles and trauma; and observing the inner workings of their minds, resonated so much with me.
There was also another layer that impacted me and that was that I have also personally gone through a very similar situation to what Lake experiences in this book. Whilst the situation wasn't a trigger for me, it is still emotional and I truly appreciate how tactfully and beautifully Jescie managed to handle this topic.
Dylan is a physiotherapist who's made a name for herself helping an injured athlete get back in the game. Now she is forced to work with Lake Decker, a cocky running back, determined to recover from his torn ACL injury as fast as possible. The banter between these two was off the charts and adorable and the sexual tension COULD BE CUT WITH A KNIFE... and I WANTED A PIECE OF THAT PIE!
This is a very character-focused story. Dylan is stubborn, resilient, and determined. She is the type of character that knows what she wants and pushes herself to get it. She is also incredibly self-sacrificing, often of her own happiness. She will do whatever is necessary to make her brother Colin happy.
Lake on the surface, is an asshole. He comes across as that typical arrogant jock who is exactly what the tabloids say about him. When you meet him, he is depressed, dejected and mean. He has been taken out of the game and he battles with the acceptance that he needs to take his time to heal properly. As the story unfolds and his layers are peeled back, you realise that he is actually such a softie. A typical cinnamon roll just wrapped up in absolute delight. He falls first and he falls hard. The way that he cherishes Dylan and takes care of her. The way he anticipates her needs and is so thoughtful about her situation. Also how he so readily and easily accepts Colin into his life was absolutely phenomenal.
This book made me cry. It is an emotional journey and heartbreaking at times, but throughout the book, you will find yourself cheering from the sidelines for these two (three with Colin) and their story!
The Canary Cowards is a literal touchdown of a book and something unexpected that I think everybody who loves contemporary romance should read.
The tropes in this include:
▶ Forbidden Romance
▶ Enemies to Lovers
▶ Football (Sports) Romance
▶ Banter for days!
▶ Autism Representation
So many thanks to Jescie Hall for the gifted ARC!
All thoughts and feelings in this review are my own
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
There is something truly amazing about Jescie Hall's writing, and that is her versatility. Having read That Sik Luv, which is probably the darkest and spiciest book I have read, I wasn't sure what to expect with the Canary Cowards.
I'm not a "typical" sports romance reader. My go-to is typically dark and mostly fantasy...So I went in completely blind, and BOY was I not ready for how this book would affect me. This was a beautiful, emotional, raw depiction of two broken characters who have to work through numerous struggles and past trauma. Both need to learn to open their hearts to move forward. It is about vulnerability. It is about acceptance. It's about learning to ask for help when needed and it's about learning not to be a coward.
I think this book impacted me more than I thought it would as I saw myself and my insecurities in both Lake and Dylan. How each of these characters face their obstacles and trauma; and observing the inner workings of their minds, resonated so much with me.
There was also another layer that impacted me and that was that I have also personally gone through a very similar situation to what Lake experiences in this book. Whilst the situation wasn't a trigger for me, it is still emotional and I truly appreciate how tactfully and beautifully Jescie managed to handle this topic.
Dylan is a physiotherapist who's made a name for herself helping an injured athlete get back in the game. Now she is forced to work with Lake Decker, a cocky running back, determined to recover from his torn ACL injury as fast as possible. The banter between these two was off the charts and adorable and the sexual tension COULD BE CUT WITH A KNIFE... and I WANTED A PIECE OF THAT PIE!
This is a very character-focused story. Dylan is stubborn, resilient, and determined. She is the type of character that knows what she wants and pushes herself to get it. She is also incredibly self-sacrificing, often of her own happiness. She will do whatever is necessary to make her brother Colin happy.
Lake on the surface, is an asshole. He comes across as that typical arrogant jock who is exactly what the tabloids say about him. When you meet him, he is depressed, dejected and mean. He has been taken out of the game and he battles with the acceptance that he needs to take his time to heal properly. As the story unfolds and his layers are peeled back, you realise that he is actually such a softie. A typical cinnamon roll just wrapped up in absolute delight. He falls first and he falls hard. The way that he cherishes Dylan and takes care of her. The way he anticipates her needs and is so thoughtful about her situation. Also how he so readily and easily accepts Colin into his life was absolutely phenomenal.
This book made me cry. It is an emotional journey and heartbreaking at times, but throughout the book, you will find yourself cheering from the sidelines for these two (three with Colin) and their story!
The Canary Cowards is a literal touchdown of a book and something unexpected that I think everybody who loves contemporary romance should read.
The tropes in this include:
▶ Forbidden Romance
▶ Enemies to Lovers
▶ Football (Sports) Romance
▶ Banter for days!
▶ Autism Representation
So many thanks to Jescie Hall for the gifted ARC!
All thoughts and feelings in this review are my own
March 29, 2024
Omg my freaking heart 🥹🥹🥹 I feel slightly drained from how hard I just bawled my eyes out.
This was fucking beautiful. I genuinely think this is the HARDEST I’ve ever read a fictional man loving his woman. Lake loves so hard 🖤🥹
This was beyond emotional. The relationship between Dylan and her brother Colin is just… everything. Colin is probably one of my favorite fictional characters of all time. 💛
I honestly don’t want to say much because going in blind was the most amazing experience. This is just simply remarkable. Everyone needs to read it!
Moments:
“I’ll always be your home, Lake.”
“She needs the best goodbye.”
“How can you be possessive of something that isn’t yours?” “Because you will be mine. You just don’t know it yet.”
“But this kiss isn’t wasted. It’s monumental. It’s forgiveness. It’s thank you, it’s pain, need, and love, all wrapped in one.”
- sports romance
- enemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- forbidden
- autism rep
🌶️🌶️.5
This was fucking beautiful. I genuinely think this is the HARDEST I’ve ever read a fictional man loving his woman. Lake loves so hard 🖤🥹
This was beyond emotional. The relationship between Dylan and her brother Colin is just… everything. Colin is probably one of my favorite fictional characters of all time. 💛
I honestly don’t want to say much because going in blind was the most amazing experience. This is just simply remarkable. Everyone needs to read it!
Moments:
“I’ll always be your home, Lake.”
“She needs the best goodbye.”
“How can you be possessive of something that isn’t yours?” “Because you will be mine. You just don’t know it yet.”
“But this kiss isn’t wasted. It’s monumental. It’s forgiveness. It’s thank you, it’s pain, need, and love, all wrapped in one.”
- sports romance
- enemies to lovers
- forced proximity
- forbidden
- autism rep
🌶️🌶️.5
Read
February 5, 2024DNF
Famous NFL player is seriously injured during a game, a sport he loves, that pays his bills. Hires a physio with a great reputation, who treated another injured NFL player in her career and got him back playing after 10 months.
So I didnt understand why, straight off the bat he was SOO rude to her?? Implied she was a lesbian 🤣 because of her name and the job she does and what she was wearing. But then was annoyed she didn’t want to sleep with him? Yuno, because what woman doesn’t want to sleep with him… his behaviour didn’t make sense and contradicted what he wanted. Surely he’d be working hard to get in this woman’s good graces so he can get back to doing the thing he loves the most, playing ball. And if he is going to be rude to her, why?
She doesn’t want to work with him because he’s a
‘basket case’ … and he’s a basket case because when he found out how serious his injury was, that he wouldn’t be playing for the long term… he punched some lockers 🙃🙃 so that makes him a basket case 😂😂
I also didn’t like the writing style, this book is a co temporary romance over 500 pages long. Which only works if you have the second chance/pregnancy trope (lots of drama) orrrrrr your name is Mariana Zapata. I said what I said.
Famous NFL player is seriously injured during a game, a sport he loves, that pays his bills. Hires a physio with a great reputation, who treated another injured NFL player in her career and got him back playing after 10 months.
So I didnt understand why, straight off the bat he was SOO rude to her?? Implied she was a lesbian 🤣 because of her name and the job she does and what she was wearing. But then was annoyed she didn’t want to sleep with him? Yuno, because what woman doesn’t want to sleep with him… his behaviour didn’t make sense and contradicted what he wanted. Surely he’d be working hard to get in this woman’s good graces so he can get back to doing the thing he loves the most, playing ball. And if he is going to be rude to her, why?
She doesn’t want to work with him because he’s a
‘basket case’ … and he’s a basket case because when he found out how serious his injury was, that he wouldn’t be playing for the long term… he punched some lockers 🙃🙃 so that makes him a basket case 😂😂
I also didn’t like the writing style, this book is a co temporary romance over 500 pages long. Which only works if you have the second chance/pregnancy trope (lots of drama) orrrrrr your name is Mariana Zapata. I said what I said.
March 30, 2024
This book take my breath away. Is it angst? Yes. Is it heartbreaking? Yes. Definitely it’s must to be read to understand my feelings.
It’s worth reading.
It’s worth reading.
dnf
September 17, 2023DNF at 32%
Started out promising but sadly I’m not invested or feeling the chemistry between the h/H. Started to irritate me so it’s best to stop now.
Started out promising but sadly I’m not invested or feeling the chemistry between the h/H. Started to irritate me so it’s best to stop now.
March 11, 2024
“Please. Just please tell me I can kiss you.”
Jescie Hall can do no wrong when it comes to romance of any shade - dark, light, gray - the woman can write.
“It's us. It has to be.”
Genuine. Authentic. Realistic. The three words I would use to describe The Canary Cowards and Jescie's ability throughout this novel. Perfection. I don't even have a single bad thing to say. Everything was perfect - from the opening scene to the end. The pacing, the plot, the descriptions, the length, and the choice of language.
"You can't be afraid. Not afraid. You can’t always be afraid. Every day there is death. Every day there is life. Give her your best goodbye. Best goodbye. She needs the best goodbye.”
The relationships are dynamic with true complexities. The characters are developed with an unfathomable amount of care and thought for accurate depiction of human behavior. The emotional capacity (or depth) of Jescie's characters is honest, raw, and truthful. I have only ever felt this emotionally full after a handful of contemporary novels, and I dare say, Jescie Hall's "The Canary Cowards" rivals the majority of best-sellers in the market.
Believable. Every detail, every conversation, every description, every interaction, and every emotional outcome is believable. I -felt- everything. I -saw- everything. I -heard- everything. Not for a single second did I struggle to think this wasn't real.
“He'll need time, but he'll find his way back. Back to what really matters,” she whispers knowingly. “We always do, you know?”
Raw. The emotional impact of this novel has left me flayed open and yearning for more. Dylan, Lake, and Colin are three characters who are not going to leave me easily if they ever leave at all. The Canary Cowards is, in my opinion, flawless.
Jescie Hall can do no wrong when it comes to romance of any shade - dark, light, gray - the woman can write.
“It's us. It has to be.”
Genuine. Authentic. Realistic. The three words I would use to describe The Canary Cowards and Jescie's ability throughout this novel. Perfection. I don't even have a single bad thing to say. Everything was perfect - from the opening scene to the end. The pacing, the plot, the descriptions, the length, and the choice of language.
"You can't be afraid. Not afraid. You can’t always be afraid. Every day there is death. Every day there is life. Give her your best goodbye. Best goodbye. She needs the best goodbye.”
The relationships are dynamic with true complexities. The characters are developed with an unfathomable amount of care and thought for accurate depiction of human behavior. The emotional capacity (or depth) of Jescie's characters is honest, raw, and truthful. I have only ever felt this emotionally full after a handful of contemporary novels, and I dare say, Jescie Hall's "The Canary Cowards" rivals the majority of best-sellers in the market.
Believable. Every detail, every conversation, every description, every interaction, and every emotional outcome is believable. I -felt- everything. I -saw- everything. I -heard- everything. Not for a single second did I struggle to think this wasn't real.
“He'll need time, but he'll find his way back. Back to what really matters,” she whispers knowingly. “We always do, you know?”
Raw. The emotional impact of this novel has left me flayed open and yearning for more. Dylan, Lake, and Colin are three characters who are not going to leave me easily if they ever leave at all. The Canary Cowards is, in my opinion, flawless.
December 27, 2024
Edit: 12/27/24 - I do not support racism or authors who do not take into consideration what their own arc readers or sensitivity readers warned against.
no thanks.
no thanks.
January 18, 2024
Actual rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
I picked this up in a mood swing to somehow remedy my drowning in the vortex of M/M romance. So I needed a good M/F romance to get me back into it. Not sure why I thought this was going to be dark - maybe because it's Jescie Hall. Anyways, I'm down with a good quality non-dark romance, and this did not disappoint.
Dylan is such a vibe!
"My vagina went straight to my head"
You know how we always look for those perfect strong - and kick - ass FMC's who can rebuild kingdoms, ride dragons and fight evil? Well, here she is, in a contemporary setting, a lowly physiotherapist just gritting her teeth and working through it. I love her. I hope our daughters turn out like her. Strong, with an undeniable moral compass and so much love, but also a good measure of realism.
"He doesn't need to fuck me. I've successfully found a way to fuck myself" - realism.
" 'I'm not anxious,' I reply anxiously" - mood.
Lake is fine, your regular football star, womanizer in theory although we never really see that side of him. But it's between them where it's all really at.
" 'Missed ya, Chief,' he says with that sexy smirk. What is breathing?"
Their romance was... Tears were shed. I don't cry while reading, but the last chapters were squeezing tears out of my soul.
" 'Tell me I can love you the way I need to in order to breathe,' he whispers his demands " - Ms. Hall, respectfully, what the f*ck are you doing to me?
The reason I took away 1 star is because I did get a tad bored in the last trimester of this thiiiick boy, and had the urge to skim through the angsty heartbreaking shit over to the resolution. But look, that might just be me and my occasional inability to finally handle the very discomfort I so eagerly seek in romance.
Highly recommend this read. 💛
Spice rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️ / 5
I picked this up in a mood swing to somehow remedy my drowning in the vortex of M/M romance. So I needed a good M/F romance to get me back into it. Not sure why I thought this was going to be dark - maybe because it's Jescie Hall. Anyways, I'm down with a good quality non-dark romance, and this did not disappoint.
Dylan is such a vibe!
"My vagina went straight to my head"
You know how we always look for those perfect strong - and kick - ass FMC's who can rebuild kingdoms, ride dragons and fight evil? Well, here she is, in a contemporary setting, a lowly physiotherapist just gritting her teeth and working through it. I love her. I hope our daughters turn out like her. Strong, with an undeniable moral compass and so much love, but also a good measure of realism.
"He doesn't need to fuck me. I've successfully found a way to fuck myself" - realism.
" 'I'm not anxious,' I reply anxiously" - mood.
Lake is fine, your regular football star, womanizer in theory although we never really see that side of him. But it's between them where it's all really at.
" 'Missed ya, Chief,' he says with that sexy smirk. What is breathing?"
Their romance was... Tears were shed. I don't cry while reading, but the last chapters were squeezing tears out of my soul.
" 'Tell me I can love you the way I need to in order to breathe,' he whispers his demands " - Ms. Hall, respectfully, what the f*ck are you doing to me?
The reason I took away 1 star is because I did get a tad bored in the last trimester of this thiiiick boy, and had the urge to skim through the angsty heartbreaking shit over to the resolution. But look, that might just be me and my occasional inability to finally handle the very discomfort I so eagerly seek in romance.
Highly recommend this read. 💛
February 2, 2024
A sports romance novel for all romance readers, even ones that don't usually like sports romance!
The Canary Cowards by Jescie Hall is a contemporary, character-driven sports romance with themes such as dislike-to-lovers, forced proximity, a strong FMC and a strong MMC. You’ll see loads of banter in this book between the characters. Additionally, you’ll see strong autism representation throughout the entire story. While I’m certainly no expert on autism and would never claim to be, I thought that this was written remarkably well.
Dylan is a sports physiotherapist that has quickly made a name for herself by helping Ashton Connely, an injured football star, get back on the field in record time. When Lake, the cocky self-assured running back is injured in a game, he’s determined to hire the same therapist that Ashton worked with in hopes to get back into the game for his own personal reasons. Lake makes some assumptions that Dylan is an older, experienced male physiotherapist, and that’s where our two alpha-type main characters come together. As you can expect, Lake and Dylan immediately butt heads when Dylan tries to pass Lake off to another therapist in hopes to avoid working with the entitled athlete, and their hate banter is off the charts.
“I didn’t waste an hour of my time driving to some mom-and-pop business to hang out with Jaden."
“If this place isn’t to your liking, by all means, get the fuck out.”
Dylan is the female protagonist of my dreams. She’s smart, has a quick wit about her, and takes no guff. She’s got her priorities straight and knows the meaning of hard work. She’s self-sacrificing for the best reasons. Now, Lake. Ah, my book husband. Sure, he’s an asshole when you first meet him (spoiler alert – asshole characters are my favorite kind). You might even hate him when you first meet him. But by the end of the book, I’d be surprised if he didn’t worm his way into your heart. The man is a huge softie when it comes down to it, and I could not get enough of him. He's downright perfection. And of course, when these two finally give into their attraction to each other, their chemistry is explosive!
There is a third character in the book whose presence is so essential and important to the plot that it’s almost unjust to call him a side character. I don’t want to say much about him, but if you meet Colin and don’t like him, we probably cannot be friends.
I loved this book the first two times I read it, and I binged it again for a third time in under 24 hours. Every time I read this book, I fall in love with it even more. This is a book that I’ll come back to, over and over again, so I can relive some of my favorite moments. It’s well-rounded and well-paced, and I think most romance readers will find that this book has something for everyone in it. It made me feel so many different emotions, and I wish I could read it for the first time all over again. If you’re looking for a light, breezy, sports romance, this book isn’t it. I think you’ll find that it’s so much more. 🖤
There aren’t many triggers in this book, however, there are some and that list can be found on the authors website. I thoroughly recommend The Canary Cowards to most romance readers - even readers that don’t normally read sports romance novels.
I’m adding triggers below (that can be spoilerish, I will add some spaces if you want to duck out):
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Side character with a cancer diagnosis
Death of a parent
Derogatory comment about autistic character (not by main protagonists)
Assumptions made regarding sexual preference
The Canary Cowards by Jescie Hall is a contemporary, character-driven sports romance with themes such as dislike-to-lovers, forced proximity, a strong FMC and a strong MMC. You’ll see loads of banter in this book between the characters. Additionally, you’ll see strong autism representation throughout the entire story. While I’m certainly no expert on autism and would never claim to be, I thought that this was written remarkably well.
Dylan is a sports physiotherapist that has quickly made a name for herself by helping Ashton Connely, an injured football star, get back on the field in record time. When Lake, the cocky self-assured running back is injured in a game, he’s determined to hire the same therapist that Ashton worked with in hopes to get back into the game for his own personal reasons. Lake makes some assumptions that Dylan is an older, experienced male physiotherapist, and that’s where our two alpha-type main characters come together. As you can expect, Lake and Dylan immediately butt heads when Dylan tries to pass Lake off to another therapist in hopes to avoid working with the entitled athlete, and their hate banter is off the charts.
“I didn’t waste an hour of my time driving to some mom-and-pop business to hang out with Jaden."
“If this place isn’t to your liking, by all means, get the fuck out.”
Dylan is the female protagonist of my dreams. She’s smart, has a quick wit about her, and takes no guff. She’s got her priorities straight and knows the meaning of hard work. She’s self-sacrificing for the best reasons. Now, Lake. Ah, my book husband. Sure, he’s an asshole when you first meet him (spoiler alert – asshole characters are my favorite kind). You might even hate him when you first meet him. But by the end of the book, I’d be surprised if he didn’t worm his way into your heart. The man is a huge softie when it comes down to it, and I could not get enough of him. He's downright perfection. And of course, when these two finally give into their attraction to each other, their chemistry is explosive!
There is a third character in the book whose presence is so essential and important to the plot that it’s almost unjust to call him a side character. I don’t want to say much about him, but if you meet Colin and don’t like him, we probably cannot be friends.
I loved this book the first two times I read it, and I binged it again for a third time in under 24 hours. Every time I read this book, I fall in love with it even more. This is a book that I’ll come back to, over and over again, so I can relive some of my favorite moments. It’s well-rounded and well-paced, and I think most romance readers will find that this book has something for everyone in it. It made me feel so many different emotions, and I wish I could read it for the first time all over again. If you’re looking for a light, breezy, sports romance, this book isn’t it. I think you’ll find that it’s so much more. 🖤
There aren’t many triggers in this book, however, there are some and that list can be found on the authors website. I thoroughly recommend The Canary Cowards to most romance readers - even readers that don’t normally read sports romance novels.
I’m adding triggers below (that can be spoilerish, I will add some spaces if you want to duck out):
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Side character with a cancer diagnosis
Death of a parent
Derogatory comment about autistic character (not by main protagonists)
Assumptions made regarding sexual preference
September 8, 2023
I’d like to take Lake and put him in my pocket for safe keeping. Any woman would be lucky to wife that man UP.
The Canary Cowards was everything I didn’t know I needed. A testament to loving someone bravely and not giving up, not questioning your heart but just living through the feelings.
Lake, Dylan, and Colin have a dynamic that is truly unmatched. Words seem to have lost me for this review but I take that as a sign of the impact my heart is feeling.
Seems strange to feel changed by fiction but I am. I think we all could take some encouragement from Colin and the depths in which he loves his sister and grows to trust Lake. A incredible autism representation. So real and comforting.
Once all the pieces fell together I couldn’t stop myself from weeping. Truthfully, I cried through the entire last 50%. Happy tears, tears for healing, and tears for heartache. These characters feels so much - you experience that pain with them.
Don’t sleep on this book. Jescie Hall just handed us over a masterpiece - words that make me so proud to be a romance reader. I loved every second of it.
The Canary Cowards was everything I didn’t know I needed. A testament to loving someone bravely and not giving up, not questioning your heart but just living through the feelings.
Lake, Dylan, and Colin have a dynamic that is truly unmatched. Words seem to have lost me for this review but I take that as a sign of the impact my heart is feeling.
Seems strange to feel changed by fiction but I am. I think we all could take some encouragement from Colin and the depths in which he loves his sister and grows to trust Lake. A incredible autism representation. So real and comforting.
Once all the pieces fell together I couldn’t stop myself from weeping. Truthfully, I cried through the entire last 50%. Happy tears, tears for healing, and tears for heartache. These characters feels so much - you experience that pain with them.
Don’t sleep on this book. Jescie Hall just handed us over a masterpiece - words that make me so proud to be a romance reader. I loved every second of it.
August 10, 2024
Ooook hold your horses right their pompous piece of sh*t!
👆🏻 this is one of the first impressions I have of the MMC, Lake. And this is why 👇🏻:
“I hate how badly I need this chick for recovery. But I'm pretty sure she's into women. She has to be, right? Surprisingly, she didn't immediately linger on my physique or get tongue-tied talking to me, which was new. Usually women get flustered in my presence, their necks and faces heating with the desire for what they know a man like me could do to them in bed. They've seen me move on the field, knowing my athleticism directly translates into the bedroom.”
But hear me out. Jescie Hall is a devious genius author, why?!
Well, because she wants us to hate him. She wants to stir these raging emotions in us and push us to be on the MFC’s team, Dylan 😍.
Oh, don’t get me wrong. I am all Team Dylan here. Who wouldn’t be?!
The horrific past she’s been through. The mountainous burden on her shoulders. The demanding pressure to make ends meet. Her constant struggle to give her beautiful brother a stable home.
As a reader you just want to embrace her and shield her from the unfairness in this world. But! ☝🏻 SHE’S A GODDAMN BADASS!!!! 🥷🏻
In comes pompous asshole Lake. He’s not really an asshole, he’s a lamb in a Leopard’s skin. He wants cuddles. He feels insecure. He’s scared. He’s needy and hopeful 🥹
Assholness is just a facade!
And that’s when Jescie Hall pushes her dagger deeper. And makes you fall in love with everything Lake 😌
He’s considerate with her feelings. He’s attuned to her wants. He’s obsessed with the idea of her. She’s everything he never knew he needed. She’s his salvation when his reality comes crumbling down around him.
I loved how their love story progressed.
I loved how they didn’t lose sight of their dreams because they found love instead.
I loved that healing and struggling with their fears is part of their journey.
I love all the side characters (maybe not so much Candy, but definitely all the rest)!
What I didn’t like 🙂↔️🤨:
Her smutty books. She keeps rereading this book where the heroine keeps getting f*cked by three brothers. THREE BROTHERS MIND YOU! Oh!!! And two of them at the same time! 🤢 And then one of them falls for her 🤦🏻♀️ why? WHY!!!!!
In spanish they say “para gustos están los colores”, which comes to mean (more or less) “to each his own”. I know some readers like a reverse harem. Something I can never wrap my head around. For me this subject is just too icky, too wrong.
I imagine readers wouldn’t be so receptive of a book where actually the MMC has a harem so why would a reverse harem be ok! Anyway, personal opinion. Don’t judge me ✋ At least I am not forcing myself or my opinion on anyone. 😇
What I wanted more of:
I needed more intel on her relationship and background with her parents. The specifics. I was left kind of hanging.
Also, i wanted more of Lake’s mom 😢 I wanted to see more of Dylan and Lake’s mom together. And even Lake’s mom and Dylan’s brother. 🥹
I hereby declare I am now a BIG fan of Jescie Hall. ✍️👍🏻❤️
👆🏻 this is one of the first impressions I have of the MMC, Lake. And this is why 👇🏻:
“I hate how badly I need this chick for recovery. But I'm pretty sure she's into women. She has to be, right? Surprisingly, she didn't immediately linger on my physique or get tongue-tied talking to me, which was new. Usually women get flustered in my presence, their necks and faces heating with the desire for what they know a man like me could do to them in bed. They've seen me move on the field, knowing my athleticism directly translates into the bedroom.”
But hear me out. Jescie Hall is a devious genius author, why?!
Well, because she wants us to hate him. She wants to stir these raging emotions in us and push us to be on the MFC’s team, Dylan 😍.
Oh, don’t get me wrong. I am all Team Dylan here. Who wouldn’t be?!
The horrific past she’s been through. The mountainous burden on her shoulders. The demanding pressure to make ends meet. Her constant struggle to give her beautiful brother a stable home.
As a reader you just want to embrace her and shield her from the unfairness in this world. But! ☝🏻 SHE’S A GODDAMN BADASS!!!! 🥷🏻
In comes pompous asshole Lake. He’s not really an asshole, he’s a lamb in a Leopard’s skin. He wants cuddles. He feels insecure. He’s scared. He’s needy and hopeful 🥹
Assholness is just a facade!
And that’s when Jescie Hall pushes her dagger deeper. And makes you fall in love with everything Lake 😌
He’s considerate with her feelings. He’s attuned to her wants. He’s obsessed with the idea of her. She’s everything he never knew he needed. She’s his salvation when his reality comes crumbling down around him.
I loved how their love story progressed.
I loved how they didn’t lose sight of their dreams because they found love instead.
I loved that healing and struggling with their fears is part of their journey.
I love all the side characters (maybe not so much Candy, but definitely all the rest)!
What I didn’t like 🙂↔️🤨:
Her smutty books. She keeps rereading this book where the heroine keeps getting f*cked by three brothers. THREE BROTHERS MIND YOU! Oh!!! And two of them at the same time! 🤢 And then one of them falls for her 🤦🏻♀️ why? WHY!!!!!
In spanish they say “para gustos están los colores”, which comes to mean (more or less) “to each his own”. I know some readers like a reverse harem. Something I can never wrap my head around. For me this subject is just too icky, too wrong.
I imagine readers wouldn’t be so receptive of a book where actually the MMC has a harem so why would a reverse harem be ok! Anyway, personal opinion. Don’t judge me ✋ At least I am not forcing myself or my opinion on anyone. 😇
What I wanted more of:
I needed more intel on her relationship and background with her parents. The specifics. I was left kind of hanging.
Also, i wanted more of Lake’s mom 😢 I wanted to see more of Dylan and Lake’s mom together. And even Lake’s mom and Dylan’s brother. 🥹
I hereby declare I am now a BIG fan of Jescie Hall. ✍️👍🏻❤️
September 13, 2023
PERFECTION
Stop what you are currently reading and read this book. I’m so serious 🤣
One word to describe this book is……PERFECTION. It’s hands down the best book I’ve read this year! It’s certainly added to my list of top faves of all time. Jescie put her foot in this book! I’m literally struggling to articulate this review.
Honestly, I wasn’t sure where this story was going to go. Dylan is a physiotherapist and Lake is a top NFL running back that suffered an ACL injury and Dylan is the best for rehabbing him back to the field. What started off as a cute enemies to lovers story with amazing banter, morphed into something else entirely.
I was completely blown away at how multilayered these characters and this story became. It sucks you in and holds you hostage. These characters….my goodness…. I love these characters. They were everything!
Dylan and her selflessness, love, and sacrifices for her brother Colin was unbelievable. She put his wellbeing and happiness above her own. While initially I didn’t know what to think of her character, I eventually saw behind that stoic and stale first impressions, was a woman that gives so much of herself with little in return.
Colin is autistic and absolutely amazing! Jescie really did her research! The care and raw take in which she depicted Colin was beautiful and very emotional at times. It isn’t always easy to care for someone with special needs. It can be hard and stressful but also extremely rewarding. Colin really stole the show. He was an extraordinary character that added so much depth to this story. The smartest and most insightful person when you least expected it.
Lake was so much more than the hot shot cocky running back that he loves to portray. Behind that facade was a guy holding on relentlessly to to a fear of losing the one thing he does it all for. His selflessness and how he shook up Dylan’s world made me fall in love with him. He is the in the upper echelon of book baes.
Lake and his relationship with Colin, took me all the way out. 😭
Dylan and Lake….these two…I can’t even form words. They were heaven sent. Together and as individuals they were incredible characters. Patient and client that evolved to something life changing. You’ll have to read this book to see why I’m absolutely obsessed with these two.
The writing was exceptional. It seriously sucks you in. This story had me in my feelings for sure. I was not expecting to be as emotional as I was. Any story that captivates me this way is for sure a 5 star read. Jescie is seriously becoming one of my favorite writers and she just gets better and better with each book.
Read this book! It’s worth it! Thank me later.
Stop what you are currently reading and read this book. I’m so serious 🤣
One word to describe this book is……PERFECTION. It’s hands down the best book I’ve read this year! It’s certainly added to my list of top faves of all time. Jescie put her foot in this book! I’m literally struggling to articulate this review.
Honestly, I wasn’t sure where this story was going to go. Dylan is a physiotherapist and Lake is a top NFL running back that suffered an ACL injury and Dylan is the best for rehabbing him back to the field. What started off as a cute enemies to lovers story with amazing banter, morphed into something else entirely.
I was completely blown away at how multilayered these characters and this story became. It sucks you in and holds you hostage. These characters….my goodness…. I love these characters. They were everything!
Dylan and her selflessness, love, and sacrifices for her brother Colin was unbelievable. She put his wellbeing and happiness above her own. While initially I didn’t know what to think of her character, I eventually saw behind that stoic and stale first impressions, was a woman that gives so much of herself with little in return.
Colin is autistic and absolutely amazing! Jescie really did her research! The care and raw take in which she depicted Colin was beautiful and very emotional at times. It isn’t always easy to care for someone with special needs. It can be hard and stressful but also extremely rewarding. Colin really stole the show. He was an extraordinary character that added so much depth to this story. The smartest and most insightful person when you least expected it.
Lake was so much more than the hot shot cocky running back that he loves to portray. Behind that facade was a guy holding on relentlessly to to a fear of losing the one thing he does it all for. His selflessness and how he shook up Dylan’s world made me fall in love with him. He is the in the upper echelon of book baes.
Lake and his relationship with Colin, took me all the way out. 😭
Dylan and Lake….these two…I can’t even form words. They were heaven sent. Together and as individuals they were incredible characters. Patient and client that evolved to something life changing. You’ll have to read this book to see why I’m absolutely obsessed with these two.
The writing was exceptional. It seriously sucks you in. This story had me in my feelings for sure. I was not expecting to be as emotional as I was. Any story that captivates me this way is for sure a 5 star read. Jescie is seriously becoming one of my favorite writers and she just gets better and better with each book.
Read this book! It’s worth it! Thank me later.
July 19, 2024
Тааак, я завершила — це була важка для мене книга. Починаючи від хвороб рідних людей, закінчуючи моральними травмами головних героїв через ті хвороби.
Протягом усієї історії прослідковується, як Ділан і Лейк вдають із себе таких позитивних та вмотивованих, щоб в очах інших бути сильними. А насправді це дві загублені душі, які несли важкий тягар на своїх плечах через любов.
Книга насичена постійною тривогою, зривами, приниженнями самих себе. І в той же час Лейк і Ділан знайшли одне одного за власною подобою, готові подарувати одне одному весь світ.
Були деякі мінуси, як от червоні прапорці Лейка у деяких ситуаціях, але це все логічно пояснювалося і він переборював себе, тож як є.
Історія про великі серця, щирі почуття та бажання бути коханими.
Протягом усієї історії прослідковується, як Ділан і Лейк вдають із себе таких позитивних та вмотивованих, щоб в очах інших бути сильними. А насправді це дві загублені душі, які несли важкий тягар на своїх плечах через любов.
Книга насичена постійною тривогою, зривами, приниженнями самих себе. І в той же час Лейк і Ділан знайшли одне одного за власною подобою, готові подарувати одне одному весь світ.
Були деякі мінуси, як от червоні прапорці Лейка у деяких ситуаціях, але це все логічно пояснювалося і він переборював себе, тож як є.
Історія про великі серця, щирі почуття та бажання бути коханими.
October 16, 2024
5⭐️Oh the way this one pulled at my heartstrings! It had me crying like a crazy person at 2 in the morning. 😅
But moving on…😌☝️
The main characters, Lake & Dylan? Muaah 🧑🍳 kiss!!!
They felt like real people to me, with their flaws and insecurities, facing difficult struggles, but finding strength in each other. Finding the home they needed in each other!
The tension, chemistry and angst between them was sooo intense, so heartfelt, especially the way Lake seemed to crave her presence. And Dyl wasn’t any better, I might add. She needed him just as much! They wanted each other with an uncontrollable passion! Exactly the way I want my couples, I want to be able to feel their rawness and love for one another! 🫠💖
If Jescie Hall continues to write books like this one, without any cheating in them like some other of her books, she will definitely become one of my favorites authors out there, because she has the talent to write deep and meaningful love stories.
That epilogue was soooooo satisfying!!! It was everything that I could have wished for and more! *swoon* 🙌💖
Also…I can’t wait to see who the new guy is! GASP! 🫢
But moving on…😌☝️
The main characters, Lake & Dylan? Muaah 🧑🍳 kiss!!!
They felt like real people to me, with their flaws and insecurities, facing difficult struggles, but finding strength in each other. Finding the home they needed in each other!
The tension, chemistry and angst between them was sooo intense, so heartfelt, especially the way Lake seemed to crave her presence. And Dyl wasn’t any better, I might add. She needed him just as much! They wanted each other with an uncontrollable passion! Exactly the way I want my couples, I want to be able to feel their rawness and love for one another! 🫠💖
If Jescie Hall continues to write books like this one, without any cheating in them like some other of her books, she will definitely become one of my favorites authors out there, because she has the talent to write deep and meaningful love stories.
That epilogue was soooooo satisfying!!! It was everything that I could have wished for and more! *swoon* 🙌💖
Also…I can’t wait to see who the new guy is! GASP! 🫢
February 7, 2025
4,5/5
Це було дуже мило і незвичайно трішки
Лейк таки булочка з Коліном
Мені так було шкода за його маму, як він страждав, не міг пояснити це Ділан
А як було боляче, коли він сказав, що не може бути з нея всплакнула)
Я дуже була рада, що Ділан побула з Лейком, коли він приїхав до неї, бо не мав до кого(((
49 розділ…я хочу таке в житті спробувати….
Мені сподобалося🥰🥹
Це було дуже мило і незвичайно трішки
Лейк таки булочка з Коліном
Мені так було шкода за його маму, як він страждав, не міг пояснити це Ділан
А як було боляче, коли він сказав, що не може бути з нея всплакнула)
Я дуже була рада, що Ділан побула з Лейком, коли він приїхав до неї, бо не мав до кого(((
49 розділ…я хочу таке в житті спробувати….
Мені сподобалося🥰🥹
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2024
I laughed, I cried, I giggled like a teenager. I loved this book so much it should probably be 4.5 ⭐️ Jescie Hall is just so poetic in her writing and gets the girlies.
July 17, 2024
Дивовижна книжка 🫶
Так багато емоцій мене переповнювало🥹 дуже боліло за головних героїв. Я багато плакала, і сміялася, і такі ніжні стосунки у них
Ділан така сильна дівчинка, я в захваті від неї, як вона любить і як вона піклується, яка вона безкорисна
А Лейк😱 як він допомагає зрозуміти Ділан, що вона гідна всього найкращого, щоб вона мріяла, не забувала і піклувалася про себе
А який особливий Колін 🥹 немає слів ❤️
Так багато емоцій мене переповнювало🥹 дуже боліло за головних героїв. Я багато плакала, і сміялася, і такі ніжні стосунки у них
Ділан така сильна дівчинка, я в захваті від неї, як вона любить і як вона піклується, яка вона безкорисна
А Лейк😱 як він допомагає зрозуміти Ділан, що вона гідна всього найкращого, щоб вона мріяла, не забувала і піклувалася про себе
А який особливий Колін 🥹 немає слів ❤️
July 20, 2024
Мінус бал, що зразу появилась якась закоханість, ну йокелемене
Ладно б трішки побурчали один на одного, сексуальний потяг, то одне, а що пипець людина подоюаєтся- інше
Ще з таким бабієм Лейком.
Історія кожного з гг- це звісно обняти і поплакати (чим я в кінці книги і займалась)
Але тут про самопожертву, любов рідних, а також, як піклуватись про людину з нервовими відхиленнями (аутизм)
Лейк бувало з 🚩, інколи бісив з своїми вчинками, але там всьому є пояснення
Ділан звісно неймовірної сили людина, яка незважаючи на всі труднощі хотіла для брата найкращого
Історія на один раз, але попереджаю, серветки треба готувати в кінці
Ладно б трішки побурчали один на одного, сексуальний потяг, то одне, а що пипець людина подоюаєтся- інше
Ще з таким бабієм Лейком.
Історія кожного з гг- це звісно обняти і поплакати (чим я в кінці книги і займалась)
Але тут про самопожертву, любов рідних, а також, як піклуватись про людину з нервовими відхиленнями (аутизм)
Лейк бувало з 🚩, інколи бісив з своїми вчинками, але там всьому є пояснення
Ділан звісно неймовірної сили людина, яка незважаючи на всі труднощі хотіла для брата найкращого
Історія на один раз, але попереджаю, серветки треба готувати в кінці
March 3, 2024
"Flat tires happen to everyone. Cars always break down. Crash. Start fires. Break down. It's the team that gets the racer back on track. The team. It's the team. Team. Team."
I wasn't expecting to cry with this book.
Jescie is known for her dark romance that I love, but this one is a contrast from her dark themes, and it was beautiful.
I wasn't expecting to cry with this book.
Jescie is known for her dark romance that I love, but this one is a contrast from her dark themes, and it was beautiful.
Read
October 15, 2024⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
🌶🌶🌶
🇬🇧: Shit, guys, like, come on! I can’t believe there isn’t a hype over this book yet! It was truly PERFECT!
The main heroine - 𝗗𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 - fuck, I want to be her! So strong, independent, caring.. and OH MY GOD! Don’t even get me started raving about my new book boyfriend - 𝗟𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿 - ladies and gentlemen! So sweet, thoughtful and even more caring than her! Add being sexy AF to that and you have pure perfection here!
But OVERALL STORY?! I’m OBSESSED! I’d never thought I could cry this much over the book but here I am. I was sobbing every few chapters, my heart was melting and shattering almost at the same time + THE SMUT?! I can’t say enough good words about how tasteful those parts was!
I can’t get enough, I need more but at the same time story is complete. 😭 I’ll never recover after this. it’s absolutely one of THE BEST books I’ve ever read! ❤️
🇵🇱: Cholera no! Nie mogę uwierzyć, że nie ma jeszcze szumu wokół tej książki! Była absolutnie IDEALNA!
Główna bohaterka - 𝗗𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 - kurw@, chcę nią być! Taka silna, niezależna, opiekuńcza.. i O MÓJ BOŻE! I nawet nie zaczynajmy zachwycać się moim nowym książkowym chłopakiem - 𝗟𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗺 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗺 - panie i panowie! Taka słodki, troskliwy, jeszcze bardziej opiekuńczy niż ona! Dodajcie do tego bycie seksownym AF i macie tutaj czystą perfekcję!
Ale OGÓLNA HISTORIA?! Mam obsesję! Nigdy nie myślałam, że będę tak płakać nad książką, a jednak oto jestem. Płakałam co kilka rozdziałów, serce mi się topiło i pękało niemal w tym samym momencie + SMUT?! Nie mogę powiedzieć wystarczająco dużo dobrych słów o tym, jak gustowne były te części!
Nie mam dość, potrzebuję więcej, ale jednocześnie wiem, że historia jest kompletna. 😭 Nigdy się po tym nie otrząsnę. to absolutnie jedna z NAJLEPSZYCH książek, jakie kiedykolwiek przeczytałam! ❤️
🌶🌶🌶
🇬🇧: Shit, guys, like, come on! I can’t believe there isn’t a hype over this book yet! It was truly PERFECT!
The main heroine - 𝗗𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 - fuck, I want to be her! So strong, independent, caring.. and OH MY GOD! Don’t even get me started raving about my new book boyfriend - 𝗟𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿 - ladies and gentlemen! So sweet, thoughtful and even more caring than her! Add being sexy AF to that and you have pure perfection here!
But OVERALL STORY?! I’m OBSESSED! I’d never thought I could cry this much over the book but here I am. I was sobbing every few chapters, my heart was melting and shattering almost at the same time + THE SMUT?! I can’t say enough good words about how tasteful those parts was!
I can’t get enough, I need more but at the same time story is complete. 😭 I’ll never recover after this. it’s absolutely one of THE BEST books I’ve ever read! ❤️
🇵🇱: Cholera no! Nie mogę uwierzyć, że nie ma jeszcze szumu wokół tej książki! Była absolutnie IDEALNA!
Główna bohaterka - 𝗗𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻 - kurw@, chcę nią być! Taka silna, niezależna, opiekuńcza.. i O MÓJ BOŻE! I nawet nie zaczynajmy zachwycać się moim nowym książkowym chłopakiem - 𝗟𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗺 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗺 - panie i panowie! Taka słodki, troskliwy, jeszcze bardziej opiekuńczy niż ona! Dodajcie do tego bycie seksownym AF i macie tutaj czystą perfekcję!
Ale OGÓLNA HISTORIA?! Mam obsesję! Nigdy nie myślałam, że będę tak płakać nad książką, a jednak oto jestem. Płakałam co kilka rozdziałów, serce mi się topiło i pękało niemal w tym samym momencie + SMUT?! Nie mogę powiedzieć wystarczająco dużo dobrych słów o tym, jak gustowne były te części!
Nie mam dość, potrzebuję więcej, ale jednocześnie wiem, że historia jest kompletna. 😭 Nigdy się po tym nie otrząsnę. to absolutnie jedna z NAJLEPSZYCH książek, jakie kiedykolwiek przeczytałam! ❤️
December 23, 2024
В сравнение с останалите книги на Джеси Хол, The Canary Cowards е осезаемо по-лека. Приличен спортен роман с някои много хубави теми. Звездата на историята определено беше Колин. Дилън също беше интересен образ. Лейк обаче беше пълен потрес. Необуздано момченце, с mommy issues, затворено в тялото на огромен и агресивен атлет. Няма как да симпатизирам на мъж, който на всяка втора страница прави някаква епична тъпотия, унижава и принизява главната героиня, след което се извинява и си мисли, че всичко е минало и забравено. Би било добре по начало да не прави простотии, за които да се извинява but this is just me. Някои жени обичат да ги малтретират психически, докато почиват на кълтата, че са способни да го превъзпитат, така че да стане мъжа на мечтите им #howaboutno. Като към това прибавим и факта, че той откровено търсеше заместител на мама като support system и нещата станаха even bigger no thanks. Като цяло образа на Лейк беше ужасно проблематичен. И посланието, което Хол ни предаде по негов адрес е много погрешно. В тази посока книгата е пълен хикс. Но по направление преодоляване трудностите в живота, силата на духа, намиране на любов, разбиране, приемане към хората в аутистичния спектър беше бижу.
Има още какво да се желае. И като сюжет, и като структура, и като динамика. Можеше да се обмислят още малко и персонажите (Лейк най-вече). Малко банална ми дойде на моменти. В други беше много приникновена. Идеята зад заглавието ти пръска сърчицето. Финала ми хареса. Очертава се да има още книги в тази вселена и The Canary Cowards да се превърне в поредица. Като цяло не е най-доброто, на което авторката е способна, но е в пъти по-добро от средното ниво на спортните романи в последно време.
Финална оценка: 3,25⭐ закръглени в полза на книгата заради Колин, който е способен да те разтопи за секунди 🖤
Има още какво да се желае. И като сюжет, и като структура, и като динамика. Можеше да се обмислят още малко и персонажите (Лейк най-вече). Малко банална ми дойде на моменти. В други беше много приникновена. Идеята зад заглавието ти пръска сърчицето. Финала ми хареса. Очертава се да има още книги в тази вселена и The Canary Cowards да се превърне в поредица. Като цяло не е най-доброто, на което авторката е способна, но е в пъти по-добро от средното ниво на спортните романи в последно време.
Финална оценка: 3,25⭐ закръглени в полза на книгата заради Колин, който е способен да те разтопи за секунди 🖤
August 4, 2024
"You can't be afraid. Every day, there is life. Every day, there is death."
Without a doubt, this book will live in my head rent-free. FOREVER. It was unbelievably beautiful.
This was my first Jescie Hall book! And it absolutely won't be my last. Her writing was incredible. I honestly can't even describe it!
🏁
• Dylan was such an incredible FMC. She was so strong. And so fiesty. She really put cocky Lake in his place flawlessly.
"She's beautiful. It's undeniable at this point, but her attitude is the catalyst. It's just too much for me to handle. It makes me crazy, needing to taunt and tease her, finding whatever way I can to one-up her. Dominate her."
• Lake was so possessive. I loved every second of it. Him jealous of her book "p***" 🤣
"I can't be this possessive guy who pops off on her for no reason, bursting into her room searching for other dudes. A man who gets jealous over fictional characters in a book that more than likely has already made her cum."
• Lake meeting Colin of my most anticipated parts of the book and Jescie absolutely didn't disappoint us! The things Lake thought about Dylan after meeting awe were perfect!
"She just became the most interesting person to me. One of the most respectable. Most admirable."
“You deserve to have someone who realizes how amazing you are for your endless love and protection of him, not downgrade you because of that.”
• There were just so many beautiful parts of this book, but my top two would have to be...
》 Colin and Lake in the barn giving treats to the horses!
“It's not. You can't be afraid. Not afraid. You can’t always be afraid. Every day there is death. Every day there is life. Give her your best goodbye. Best goodbye. She needs the best goodbye.”
"Such an amazing soul, trapped in this shell that society tells us to separate from the rest of us. Clumping him into a category of illness that is supposed to encompass him. Someone that people as simple-minded as Eric will never understand, nor should he be lucky enough to. He can't conform. He shouldn't. Colin is everything. He's needed. Needed to make the people around him open themselves to a new perspective. A childlike view of the world around him. Simple and to the point."
》 Lake introducing Dylan and Colin to his mom.
“You're an amazing sister to him,” she whispers.
“I've only done what I'm supposed to.” I shrug. “What I needed to.”
“It's more than that. You love him fiercely. You protect him. You're as selfless as they come, Dylan, and that's not something anyone can teach you or something you can even learn on your own. It’s just who you are.”
The third act breakup was painful.... and the longest part of the book (it felt like 😅) it would be the only thing I would change and the reason it wasn't a 5 star read for me. It just seemed to drag on. But thank goodness Colin had them pull their heads out of the sand..
“Flat tires happen to everyone,” he continues. “Cars always break down. Crash. Start fires. Break down. It’s the team that gets the racer back on track. The team. It’s the team. Team. Team.”
“Just another flat. A flat. Trust the team.”
I can't wait to pick up another book Jescie Hall has written. This was a beautifully emotional ride! I loved it!
Without a doubt, this book will live in my head rent-free. FOREVER. It was unbelievably beautiful.
This was my first Jescie Hall book! And it absolutely won't be my last. Her writing was incredible. I honestly can't even describe it!
🏁
• Dylan was such an incredible FMC. She was so strong. And so fiesty. She really put cocky Lake in his place flawlessly.
"She's beautiful. It's undeniable at this point, but her attitude is the catalyst. It's just too much for me to handle. It makes me crazy, needing to taunt and tease her, finding whatever way I can to one-up her. Dominate her."
• Lake was so possessive. I loved every second of it. Him jealous of her book "p***" 🤣
"I can't be this possessive guy who pops off on her for no reason, bursting into her room searching for other dudes. A man who gets jealous over fictional characters in a book that more than likely has already made her cum."
• Lake meeting Colin of my most anticipated parts of the book and Jescie absolutely didn't disappoint us! The things Lake thought about Dylan after meeting awe were perfect!
"She just became the most interesting person to me. One of the most respectable. Most admirable."
“You deserve to have someone who realizes how amazing you are for your endless love and protection of him, not downgrade you because of that.”
• There were just so many beautiful parts of this book, but my top two would have to be...
》 Colin and Lake in the barn giving treats to the horses!
“It's not. You can't be afraid. Not afraid. You can’t always be afraid. Every day there is death. Every day there is life. Give her your best goodbye. Best goodbye. She needs the best goodbye.”
"Such an amazing soul, trapped in this shell that society tells us to separate from the rest of us. Clumping him into a category of illness that is supposed to encompass him. Someone that people as simple-minded as Eric will never understand, nor should he be lucky enough to. He can't conform. He shouldn't. Colin is everything. He's needed. Needed to make the people around him open themselves to a new perspective. A childlike view of the world around him. Simple and to the point."
》 Lake introducing Dylan and Colin to his mom.
“You're an amazing sister to him,” she whispers.
“I've only done what I'm supposed to.” I shrug. “What I needed to.”
“It's more than that. You love him fiercely. You protect him. You're as selfless as they come, Dylan, and that's not something anyone can teach you or something you can even learn on your own. It’s just who you are.”
The third act breakup was painful.... and the longest part of the book (it felt like 😅) it would be the only thing I would change and the reason it wasn't a 5 star read for me. It just seemed to drag on. But thank goodness Colin had them pull their heads out of the sand..
“Flat tires happen to everyone,” he continues. “Cars always break down. Crash. Start fires. Break down. It’s the team that gets the racer back on track. The team. It’s the team. Team. Team.”
“Just another flat. A flat. Trust the team.”
I can't wait to pick up another book Jescie Hall has written. This was a beautifully emotional ride! I loved it!
September 19, 2023
I normally don’t write reviews for books I DNF when I’ve barely made it to 100 or so pages bc it doesn’t seem fair, but I’m sorry this one just really pissed me off.
Yes I only made it to 10% before being annoyed to the point I didn’t care what happened to Lake and hoped he didn’t have any happiness. I’m so sorry, while I understand that I’m a grumpy/sunshine trope the grumpy guy can be a bit of a dick before he eventually comes around, Lake was just insufferable and I got no enjoyment reading about him and was even questioning what Dylan could possibly see in that asshole. He was just incredibly unlikeable and even though I enjoyed Dylan and was eager to learn about her, I just don’t think I can put myself through 500 pages (why is this so long? This doesn’t need to be this long) of Lake and his weird misogyny and sexism. ✌🏻
Yes I only made it to 10% before being annoyed to the point I didn’t care what happened to Lake and hoped he didn’t have any happiness. I’m so sorry, while I understand that I’m a grumpy/sunshine trope the grumpy guy can be a bit of a dick before he eventually comes around, Lake was just insufferable and I got no enjoyment reading about him and was even questioning what Dylan could possibly see in that asshole. He was just incredibly unlikeable and even though I enjoyed Dylan and was eager to learn about her, I just don’t think I can put myself through 500 pages (why is this so long? This doesn’t need to be this long) of Lake and his weird misogyny and sexism. ✌🏻
dnf
February 19, 2025Welp. I’m out. Calling it. DNF’ing. Buuuuut not for the reasons everyone might think lol. I’m gunna end up pissing off literally everyone here so…I guess, buckle up?
I am genuinely confused as to why everyone thinks this book is so good. This writing is terrible and the characters become really painful to read. We started off strong but then Lake becomes even more of an asshole, as if that was even possible, and fuckin Dylan becomes a total pushover and for what?! Because Lake is even more of an asshole? It literally doesn’t make sense. It was just hot and cold hot and cold hot and cold on fucking repeat - and I’m only 35% into this. It was honestly like no one could make up their mind about how these characters should act so they just kept going back and forth. So dumb.
Add to that we’ve got an autistic brother - and I actually think that disability rep was well done for the most part - who has an obsession with his sister’s underwear. Now, I understand the need to show the readers how an autistic person can fixate on things and how those things might be awkward but…his sister’s underwear really seemed like the best option for that obsession? Maybe there’s a solid reason for that, which we learn about later on in the book, and if that’s the case could someone please let me know? Cuz as of right now, that shit is just unnecessary.
Also, she threw so many ick words and phrases and descriptions into such a short amount of time. I have zero desire to find any more of them in this book. I mean seriously, you’re gunna describe his dick as the “school bus full of children he thinks he’s driving into me…” I’m sorry, fucking WHAT? Who thought that was a good idea?! Christ almighty. I can’t with this shit.
Now, here’s where it gets a little comical, even for me lol. The only parts I actually didn’t mind were with our man Kane, aka “Candy”. His character was fuckin bang on and super well written. Wanna know what made his character so well rounded and believable? The stereotypes that were used when writing him. I don’t think there was anything harmful about them. Unless you think comedic relief and well rounded and written characters are harmful, in which case…stereotype me harder daddy, because I fucking loved it. They’re silly. They’re playful. It’s basically the equivalent to the basic white bitch with her PSL. And honestly, there are probably a dozen other stereotypes in this book involving different characters that are just as “harmful” as these. But I don’t see anyone freaking out over those, so y’all can still pound sand.
I honestly don’t know how this is the same author who wrote Hawke. It’s like a completely different writing style. I don’t even know what to make of it. I’m really hoping that Kid and That Sik Love are written like Hawke vs this one. Guess I’ll find out lol.
Soooo, yea. That’s my two cents.
😬😬😬
I am genuinely confused as to why everyone thinks this book is so good. This writing is terrible and the characters become really painful to read. We started off strong but then Lake becomes even more of an asshole, as if that was even possible, and fuckin Dylan becomes a total pushover and for what?! Because Lake is even more of an asshole? It literally doesn’t make sense. It was just hot and cold hot and cold hot and cold on fucking repeat - and I’m only 35% into this. It was honestly like no one could make up their mind about how these characters should act so they just kept going back and forth. So dumb.
Add to that we’ve got an autistic brother - and I actually think that disability rep was well done for the most part - who has an obsession with his sister’s underwear. Now, I understand the need to show the readers how an autistic person can fixate on things and how those things might be awkward but…his sister’s underwear really seemed like the best option for that obsession? Maybe there’s a solid reason for that, which we learn about later on in the book, and if that’s the case could someone please let me know? Cuz as of right now, that shit is just unnecessary.
Also, she threw so many ick words and phrases and descriptions into such a short amount of time. I have zero desire to find any more of them in this book. I mean seriously, you’re gunna describe his dick as the “school bus full of children he thinks he’s driving into me…” I’m sorry, fucking WHAT? Who thought that was a good idea?! Christ almighty. I can’t with this shit.
Now, here’s where it gets a little comical, even for me lol. The only parts I actually didn’t mind were with our man Kane, aka “Candy”. His character was fuckin bang on and super well written. Wanna know what made his character so well rounded and believable? The stereotypes that were used when writing him. I don’t think there was anything harmful about them. Unless you think comedic relief and well rounded and written characters are harmful, in which case…stereotype me harder daddy, because I fucking loved it. They’re silly. They’re playful. It’s basically the equivalent to the basic white bitch with her PSL. And honestly, there are probably a dozen other stereotypes in this book involving different characters that are just as “harmful” as these. But I don’t see anyone freaking out over those, so y’all can still pound sand.
I honestly don’t know how this is the same author who wrote Hawke. It’s like a completely different writing style. I don’t even know what to make of it. I’m really hoping that Kid and That Sik Love are written like Hawke vs this one. Guess I’ll find out lol.
Soooo, yea. That’s my two cents.
😬😬😬
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