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Night Games
The moment Grey Kelleher locks eyes with All-Star shortstop Chase Whitfield, she's a goner. For years, she's watched him play on TV, and now she's gazing at his hard, lean body across a bar in her hometown.
Grey's crush on Chase goes all the way back to his rookie season. So when she approaches him for an autograph, she's startled by what a jerk he can be.
Chase is no mood to humor his fans, even one as alluring as Grey. He's in the last year of his contract and stuck having to prove himself on a minor league team. He's only there to rehab an injury, nothing more.
But when Grey tells him off, Chase realizes her fiery spirit may be just the distraction he needs to take his mind off not being in the majors. His heart is safe. No one's going to break his streak as baseball's most eligible bachelor. Not even someone as irresistible as Grey.
Grey's crush on Chase goes all the way back to his rookie season. So when she approaches him for an autograph, she's startled by what a jerk he can be.
Chase is no mood to humor his fans, even one as alluring as Grey. He's in the last year of his contract and stuck having to prove himself on a minor league team. He's only there to rehab an injury, nothing more.
But when Grey tells him off, Chase realizes her fiery spirit may be just the distraction he needs to take his mind off not being in the majors. His heart is safe. No one's going to break his streak as baseball's most eligible bachelor. Not even someone as irresistible as Grey.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2014
12 people are currently reading
917 people want to read
About the author
Collette West
7 books391 followersCollette West grew up as somewhat of a jock-nerd hybrid. Entering the world three weeks premature, her dad nearly missed her birth because he had seats behind the dugout for a sold-out, highly-anticipated match-up between two of baseball's biggest rivals. Not to be outdone, her book-loving mom taught her how to read by the time she was three. A love of the game coupled with an appreciation for the written word were instilled in Collette's impressionable brain from a young age. No wonder her characters believe in the philosophy: sports + romance = a little slice of heaven.
Splitting her time between the Pocono Mountains and Manhattan, Collette indulges her inner fangirl by going to as many games as she can from hockey to baseball and downloading every sports romance novel in existence onto her iPad. When she's not clicking away on her laptop, she enjoys walking her dog in Central Park, satisfying her caffeine craving at the Starbucks on Broadway and keeping an eye out for Mr. Right. But above all, she loves dishing with her readers. Email her at collette_west@yahoo.com.
Splitting her time between the Pocono Mountains and Manhattan, Collette indulges her inner fangirl by going to as many games as she can from hockey to baseball and downloading every sports romance novel in existence onto her iPad. When she's not clicking away on her laptop, she enjoys walking her dog in Central Park, satisfying her caffeine craving at the Starbucks on Broadway and keeping an eye out for Mr. Right. But above all, she loves dishing with her readers. Email her at collette_west@yahoo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
May 15, 2014
As a fan of sports-themed romances I was thrilled to come across this story of a complicated ballplayer who lives behind a facade of cool calculation, but inside has a heart of gold, and the loyal girl who's just going through the motions of living. From their combustible first meeting to their sweetly sensual getaway, Grey and Chase are a couple whose journey to HEA is a rocky one but also full of breaking down emotional walls and making heartfelt connections.
Chase is baseball's Golden Boy but is currently trying to recover from a career-altering injury in the middle of nowhere. His life in front of the cameras is a superficial one of meaningless women and his practiced smile, but behind the scenes he's aching for something more. He's tired of being wanted just for his fame and longs to make just one connection where he doesn't have to worry about his every word and deed. He never expected to make that connection in a small town in the middle of nowhere but from the moment their eyes met he knew he had to have Grey. To have her is to keep her a secret as he doesn't want her life thrown into chaos which makes his recovery in her isolated trailer perfect. During their time together he shows her the real Chase and finds a kindred spirit in their love of baseball and life. When his recovery is over he's left with a big decision that will prove the kind of man he really is. Chase came off very gruff at the start but his reasons for that are understandable as everyone wants a piece of him and he never knows who he can trust. He's a truly kind-hearted man who's scared of his aging body in the physically draining world of baseball. While he enjoys the fame he knows it's fleeting and wants something substantial once the final pitch is thrown on his career and Grey is what he pictures. I adored Chase and loved discovering the many layers to his heart. He was sweet and sexy and the verbal bantering between him and Grey was teeming with sexual tension which culminated in some steamy sexual interludes.
Grey is a woman who seems to be hiding at the start of the story. She lives in a trailer in the middle of nowhere and works a dead-end job barely making ends meet. She has very few close confidants and overall seems to be just going through the motions of living. The one thing that gets her excited though is baseball and in particular Chase Whitfield. She's shocked to discover he's not quite the man she thought he was, but before long their connection becomes undeniable and she gets to witness his emotional walls drop and thus begins their rocky road to romance. She has issues of her own though, a past that she's ashamed of and that unfortunately comes to light because of her connection to Chase and one that puts their future in doubt. Through it all she's a strong woman who rolls with the punches, is loyal to a sister who's very trying at times, and puts up with a man who doesn't always say or do the right thing but stands by him nonetheless. She's immensely likable and I enjoyed their verbal tug-of-war. She was a formidable match for him and I found their HEA richly rewarding.
This was a sweet and sensual story that was entertaining from the very start. The ending was a bit too long with an epilogue that I wish had been fuller, but I was still left with a smile on my face once the final page was turned. The main couple were strong and easy to relate to because of their all too real emotional hang-ups and a relationship full of witty banter and surprising openness. The sometimes annoying aspects of small town living were vividly on display as was the backstabbing world of fame. These issues added numerous twists and turns to Grey and Chase's romance and occasionally left me frustrated. At the end of the day though I enjoyed my first book of Ms. West's and hope she'll revisit this world of baseball she's created as I found it an entertaining game of romance.
Chase is baseball's Golden Boy but is currently trying to recover from a career-altering injury in the middle of nowhere. His life in front of the cameras is a superficial one of meaningless women and his practiced smile, but behind the scenes he's aching for something more. He's tired of being wanted just for his fame and longs to make just one connection where he doesn't have to worry about his every word and deed. He never expected to make that connection in a small town in the middle of nowhere but from the moment their eyes met he knew he had to have Grey. To have her is to keep her a secret as he doesn't want her life thrown into chaos which makes his recovery in her isolated trailer perfect. During their time together he shows her the real Chase and finds a kindred spirit in their love of baseball and life. When his recovery is over he's left with a big decision that will prove the kind of man he really is. Chase came off very gruff at the start but his reasons for that are understandable as everyone wants a piece of him and he never knows who he can trust. He's a truly kind-hearted man who's scared of his aging body in the physically draining world of baseball. While he enjoys the fame he knows it's fleeting and wants something substantial once the final pitch is thrown on his career and Grey is what he pictures. I adored Chase and loved discovering the many layers to his heart. He was sweet and sexy and the verbal bantering between him and Grey was teeming with sexual tension which culminated in some steamy sexual interludes.
Grey is a woman who seems to be hiding at the start of the story. She lives in a trailer in the middle of nowhere and works a dead-end job barely making ends meet. She has very few close confidants and overall seems to be just going through the motions of living. The one thing that gets her excited though is baseball and in particular Chase Whitfield. She's shocked to discover he's not quite the man she thought he was, but before long their connection becomes undeniable and she gets to witness his emotional walls drop and thus begins their rocky road to romance. She has issues of her own though, a past that she's ashamed of and that unfortunately comes to light because of her connection to Chase and one that puts their future in doubt. Through it all she's a strong woman who rolls with the punches, is loyal to a sister who's very trying at times, and puts up with a man who doesn't always say or do the right thing but stands by him nonetheless. She's immensely likable and I enjoyed their verbal tug-of-war. She was a formidable match for him and I found their HEA richly rewarding.
This was a sweet and sensual story that was entertaining from the very start. The ending was a bit too long with an epilogue that I wish had been fuller, but I was still left with a smile on my face once the final page was turned. The main couple were strong and easy to relate to because of their all too real emotional hang-ups and a relationship full of witty banter and surprising openness. The sometimes annoying aspects of small town living were vividly on display as was the backstabbing world of fame. These issues added numerous twists and turns to Grey and Chase's romance and occasionally left me frustrated. At the end of the day though I enjoyed my first book of Ms. West's and hope she'll revisit this world of baseball she's created as I found it an entertaining game of romance.
February 17, 2014
Please bear with me while I try to unwind my thoughts and feelings on this read!…
Night Games was a sweet romance that falls into the 3.5-4 star region for me. While I did like it, it was admittedly on the slow/”draggy” side for me.
Another aspect I feel conflicted as to discuss is the characters’ relationship. I mean, the progression was a bit fast and slow at the same time. Sounds a bit contradicting already (my review) doesn’t it? *sighs* ;)
So, the story:
For feisty and hardworking Grey Kelleher, Chase Whitman had been the ultimate dream guy for her since the ripe age of 16.
Following his track record off and on the field years later, she and her sister end up attending a baseball game of his where a chance encounter leads to a heated encounter between Chase and Grey that will forever change their lives.
Enter Chase. Chase Whitman, thought he had it all: money, women, and a soaring career. That is, until he stuck in limbo playing for a minor league team while he recuperates from a sports injury that could possibly end his career altogether.
While switching teams and being sent from New York to Pennsylvania, what he doesn’t know is that his world is about to turn completely upside down.
From the moment he locks eyes with Grey (as he is humorously kicking her and her sister out of his baseball game) it is all over. Something about Grey strikes something deep within him that he had thought was long lost and finds himself wanting to let down the walls that he had so carefully built around himself just to let her in.
Only…will fame, money, and secrets of their pasts get in the way of their budding romance? Will Chase’s insecurities of being burned and used by others get the best of him or will it tear it apart? And will Chase ever play in the Major leagues once more?
Read and you will find out!
So my additional thoughts: I will also attest that nothing really big happens in this read. It’s kind of just runs on one wavelength from start to finish which is really ironic since it leaves the buildup of Chase’s and Grey’s relationship and struggles/victories to be sort of anti-climatic at the end.
I mean, there was a lot of give and take between the two of them and then Grey's revealing secret that she tried to keep under wraps took tow of a good amount of conflict as well. But, what it really comes down to is that both characters are insecure and need the extra push to come to terms with it.
As for the steaminess, I was actually hoping for more but at the same time it was kind of refreshing to get the whole “black out” ingredient as it keeps their relationship more on the pure side and not so raunchy.
And LASTLY, the ending. For me, once again, I bring up anti-climatic. I don’t know what it is with me but I just wanted MORE really to it is all. It just felt kind of rushed and kind of left me unsettled for some reason.
I KNOW, I KNOW what you guys are thinking…This girl is one confused, all over the place chick. I KNOW. I'd want to kick me too!
Honestly guys, read this book for yourselves. It's a delightful story but there were some points and parts were I wish it were either edited or elaborated on more.
I'm sure a lot of you won't have the same sentiments as me and that's fine. After all, I am just ONE READER, hence ONE VOICE. I'm just being picky is all, SORRY!...
Pick it up when it releases!! I'm sure you'l just love it!! It really is a lovely book debut for Ms. Collette West!!
May 19, 2014
WOW this book was cute, funny, somewhat scary and romantic. The character of Grey Kelleher has always had a crush on her favorite shortstop for the NY Kings, Chase Whitfield. Not only Grey but her sister Erin and her parents.So the All-Star player gets a ligament torn and winds up in Stockton, PA for a short stint in the minor leagues. When Erin gets wind she tells Grey and they are at the game. In the meantime the character of Grey is being set up. Her sister is a loose cannon since her divorce, I find her very amusing, Grey is trying to enjoy the game and keep her in check. Grey has a dream, she wants a glimpse of her player, a good game and she is in harmony. It goes oddly off balance from here on.
So Chase is going to do his time, keep his therapy and knee from injury and be playing for the Kings again. Chase has some dialogue that I need to point out. He decided that the girls are no longer amusing so, maybe he wants to look for "the one". When he sees Grey the lights, bells and whistles go off.
They get to meet ...READ this book! It has a family story that will make you smile, one that will make you cry and show loyalty beyond words. There are a few things that happen in this small town in Pennsylvania that, when the reveal comes up, you will shake your head. I was like WOW things like that go on there...hhhmmm. interestingly scary. I totally loved this book. Now here is a quote to give you some of the humor I hope others will catch:
location 1236 To her, I'm not Chase Whitfield, Im just some guy, pestering the heck out of her. Even if what I'm really trying to do is get her to flirt with me. "I fondle men's underwear all day long. Is that specific enough for you?"
"Very. Think you can hook me up with some? I should really stock up while Im here since I never have time to shop"
"Im not kidding I could use your professional advice. What do you think? Am I a boxers or a briefs kind of guy?"
"Well since I read your interview in GQ, I already know the answer to that."
"And?"
"You prefer more of a combination style"
You cant help but smile at her she is so becoming the encyclopedia of Chase I find it so endearing. I say read it now and if you by chance like baseball (I dont) it will be a bonus. Note to author: I love basketball, so keep it in mind for the next book. Some nice hot sweaty JJ Reddick for me please
So Chase is going to do his time, keep his therapy and knee from injury and be playing for the Kings again. Chase has some dialogue that I need to point out. He decided that the girls are no longer amusing so, maybe he wants to look for "the one". When he sees Grey the lights, bells and whistles go off.
They get to meet ...READ this book! It has a family story that will make you smile, one that will make you cry and show loyalty beyond words. There are a few things that happen in this small town in Pennsylvania that, when the reveal comes up, you will shake your head. I was like WOW things like that go on there...hhhmmm. interestingly scary. I totally loved this book. Now here is a quote to give you some of the humor I hope others will catch:
location 1236 To her, I'm not Chase Whitfield, Im just some guy, pestering the heck out of her. Even if what I'm really trying to do is get her to flirt with me. "I fondle men's underwear all day long. Is that specific enough for you?"
"Very. Think you can hook me up with some? I should really stock up while Im here since I never have time to shop"
"Im not kidding I could use your professional advice. What do you think? Am I a boxers or a briefs kind of guy?"
"Well since I read your interview in GQ, I already know the answer to that."
"And?"
"You prefer more of a combination style"
You cant help but smile at her she is so becoming the encyclopedia of Chase I find it so endearing. I say read it now and if you by chance like baseball (I dont) it will be a bonus. Note to author: I love basketball, so keep it in mind for the next book. Some nice hot sweaty JJ Reddick for me please
October 11, 2014
October 2014:
Collette West has written a Guest Blog as her heroine Grey Kelleher Whitfield to talk about Cancer Awareness!
When I was twenty-three, my mom was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Before that, she had smoked a pack a day for nearly twenty years. Growing up, I remember bringing her that all too familiar red and white Marlboro box with the cheap BIC lighter rubber-banded around the middle. Looking back, I wish I'd thrown them away or hid them somewhere where she'd never find them. Then maybe she'd still be with us.
Read this guest blog! Why My Mom Wouldn't Want You to Smoke
by Grey Kelleher Whitfield from NIGHT GAMES
----
Night Games is a great Sports Romance between a small town girl, Grey Kelleher--baseball aficionado, and Chase Whitfield New York Kings Superstar shortstop. Grey has been following Chase since his rookie year and her first face to face encounter with him nearly undoes years and years of hero worship. For Chase looking into Grey’s face for the first time is like looking into something he has only dreamed of. He is fascinated as he sees her seething, angry and more beautiful than any woman he has ever encountered. So he insults her and sends her away, not understanding what the hell he is doing. Even though he is making a strategic mistake and ass out of himself, fate has pity on him and offers him another chance to screw up which he does. Lucky for them both Grey has a high tolerance for douchebags.
Read the review here: Tongue Wagger - Night Games by Collette West
Special Blog Guest: The Lady In Waiting (Grey Kelleher): He Said, She Said - Hearing Voices: Belle of the Ball Game; How This Female Fan Snagged One of Baseball's Hottest Commodities - A Glimpse Inside The Locker Room.
Collette West has written a Guest Blog as her heroine Grey Kelleher Whitfield to talk about Cancer Awareness!
When I was twenty-three, my mom was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Before that, she had smoked a pack a day for nearly twenty years. Growing up, I remember bringing her that all too familiar red and white Marlboro box with the cheap BIC lighter rubber-banded around the middle. Looking back, I wish I'd thrown them away or hid them somewhere where she'd never find them. Then maybe she'd still be with us.
Read this guest blog! Why My Mom Wouldn't Want You to Smoke
by Grey Kelleher Whitfield from NIGHT GAMES
----
Night Games is a great Sports Romance between a small town girl, Grey Kelleher--baseball aficionado, and Chase Whitfield New York Kings Superstar shortstop. Grey has been following Chase since his rookie year and her first face to face encounter with him nearly undoes years and years of hero worship. For Chase looking into Grey’s face for the first time is like looking into something he has only dreamed of. He is fascinated as he sees her seething, angry and more beautiful than any woman he has ever encountered. So he insults her and sends her away, not understanding what the hell he is doing. Even though he is making a strategic mistake and ass out of himself, fate has pity on him and offers him another chance to screw up which he does. Lucky for them both Grey has a high tolerance for douchebags.
Read the review here: Tongue Wagger - Night Games by Collette West
Special Blog Guest: The Lady In Waiting (Grey Kelleher): He Said, She Said - Hearing Voices: Belle of the Ball Game; How This Female Fan Snagged One of Baseball's Hottest Commodities - A Glimpse Inside The Locker Room.
March 6, 2014
DNF
Contains MAJOR spoilers!
Wow, I finally get the rating on this book it was honestly so bad. I couldn't get through it, none of it made any sense!
Chase was a jerk. A straight up asshole! He's so freakin annoying, he thinks he's entitled to anything and everything and get away with it. He was basically feeling sorry for himself, throwing pity parties because things didn't go his way.
Grey wasn't any better, he literally treated her like shit from the beginning! She literally walked in on him getting a blow job from his supposed "not girlfriend" HOURS (not days) after he proposed to her claiming she was different blah blah blah. And guess what? Two seconds later he's forgiven!
When he finds out she was a stripper (which makes no sense in the story-line, why did that even have to happen?) she's suddenly not good enough for HIM...really man whore??? really? Then the idiot follows him back to New York after he threw her away like trash only to walk in on him getting a blow job.
Could this book get any worse??
Oh but it does.
He basically tells her that he doesn't want to be seen with her and of course she's fine with that. Why wouldn't she be right? right? Arghh that's not even the end of this shit storm (bare in mind this is the SECOND day they've known each other).
He then tells her that she has to STRIP for him and when she gets upset that she refuses to do it and sleep with him, he wonders why! Then he has a Eureka moment and realizes she's a virgin then goes crawling into her bed and of course...he's instantly forgiven. I don't understand how she goes from not being the girl that just sleeps with any guy to being so desperate for attention from some jerk a day after she's met him. Like really, who stays a virgin for 23 years and then wants to sleep with someone who treats a like shit so soon after meeting each other. It doesn't make sense does it?
Enough was enough for me. How much shit can you really put up with from a book.
I'm sorry that this contains so many spoilers but you have to know what you're getting into. And it's not pretty.
Contains MAJOR spoilers!
Wow, I finally get the rating on this book it was honestly so bad. I couldn't get through it, none of it made any sense!
Chase was a jerk. A straight up asshole! He's so freakin annoying, he thinks he's entitled to anything and everything and get away with it. He was basically feeling sorry for himself, throwing pity parties because things didn't go his way.
Grey wasn't any better, he literally treated her like shit from the beginning! She literally walked in on him getting a blow job from his supposed "not girlfriend" HOURS (not days) after he proposed to her claiming she was different blah blah blah. And guess what? Two seconds later he's forgiven!
When he finds out she was a stripper (which makes no sense in the story-line, why did that even have to happen?) she's suddenly not good enough for HIM...really man whore??? really? Then the idiot follows him back to New York after he threw her away like trash only to walk in on him getting a blow job.
Could this book get any worse??
Oh but it does.
He basically tells her that he doesn't want to be seen with her and of course she's fine with that. Why wouldn't she be right? right? Arghh that's not even the end of this shit storm (bare in mind this is the SECOND day they've known each other).
He then tells her that she has to STRIP for him and when she gets upset that she refuses to do it and sleep with him, he wonders why! Then he has a Eureka moment and realizes she's a virgin then goes crawling into her bed and of course...he's instantly forgiven. I don't understand how she goes from not being the girl that just sleeps with any guy to being so desperate for attention from some jerk a day after she's met him. Like really, who stays a virgin for 23 years and then wants to sleep with someone who treats a like shit so soon after meeting each other. It doesn't make sense does it?
Enough was enough for me. How much shit can you really put up with from a book.
I'm sorry that this contains so many spoilers but you have to know what you're getting into. And it's not pretty.
February 25, 2014
Received an ARC for an honest review.
Light Spoilers
As a lifelong baseball fan and lover of books, I was excited to read this novel. The idea of a small-town girl falling in love with a major league baseball player has so many intriguing possibilities, but unfortunately Night Games just didn’t handle it well. What started off pretty strong with Grey and Chase facing off in the little town of Stockton turned terribly wrong with a tawdry stripper storyline that confused the heck out of me. I’m not taken aback by the idea that our heroine might have at one time been a stripper, but the extortion scheme used to exploit that fact in the book was really off base.
Grey is a fine leading lady, with a strong will and sassy wit. She’s easy to like and at the start of the book I wanted to see her get with Chase. That’s when things go awry. There’s just no getting around the fact that Chase Whitfield is a jerk. Every chapter from his POV reminds me that he’s entitled and whiny. There’s even a point in the book that he begs Grey to strip for him even though he knows that she’s haunted by that part of her past. He doesn’t have any qualms about begging her simply to assuage his own ego. He wants her to strip for him simply because he can’t handle the idea that other men have seen her naked and he hasn’t. It’s absurd. I had a hard time getting past the fact that he only thinks about himself and in the end I wanted Grey to tell him to take a hike.
I had high hopes for this book and it did begin well, but in the end it was a little bit all over the place and I had a hard time engaging with Chase as the leading man.
Light Spoilers
As a lifelong baseball fan and lover of books, I was excited to read this novel. The idea of a small-town girl falling in love with a major league baseball player has so many intriguing possibilities, but unfortunately Night Games just didn’t handle it well. What started off pretty strong with Grey and Chase facing off in the little town of Stockton turned terribly wrong with a tawdry stripper storyline that confused the heck out of me. I’m not taken aback by the idea that our heroine might have at one time been a stripper, but the extortion scheme used to exploit that fact in the book was really off base.
Grey is a fine leading lady, with a strong will and sassy wit. She’s easy to like and at the start of the book I wanted to see her get with Chase. That’s when things go awry. There’s just no getting around the fact that Chase Whitfield is a jerk. Every chapter from his POV reminds me that he’s entitled and whiny. There’s even a point in the book that he begs Grey to strip for him even though he knows that she’s haunted by that part of her past. He doesn’t have any qualms about begging her simply to assuage his own ego. He wants her to strip for him simply because he can’t handle the idea that other men have seen her naked and he hasn’t. It’s absurd. I had a hard time getting past the fact that he only thinks about himself and in the end I wanted Grey to tell him to take a hike.
I had high hopes for this book and it did begin well, but in the end it was a little bit all over the place and I had a hard time engaging with Chase as the leading man.
January 28, 2022
(3,5) het is een beetje geschreven als een goeie fanfiction. Er wordt een boel verteld in plaats van getoond, maar het verhaal heeft wel een goeie haak en het is leuk en snel om te lezen.
August 23, 2015
I'm adding Collette West to my list of must-buy authors when it comes to sports romances. NIGHT GAMES is about Chase Whitfield, a well-loved and very dedicated professional baseball player who is doing everything he can to fight his way back into the game after an injury that would be career ending for a lesser man. He is sent by his team's managers to their farm league team to complete his rehabilitation. There he meets Grey Kelleher, a local woman in the small town of Stockton who has followed his career since his rookie season when she was only sixteen years old. She's a dedicated fan, but doesn't fall for all the hype and façade. She's all about the game, not the show.
Ms. West gives her readers a romantic tale of the small town girl who steals the heart of the seasoned player with hardly any effort on her part at all. That's actually part of her magic as far as Chase is concerned. She looks right through him to the man he is, tells him straight up when he's out of line, and yet still believes in him. She is intelligent, independent, understands and loves the game, and makes no effort to impress him. This is refreshing change for him and sparks his interest like no woman has done before. In Chase, Ms. West gives us the gorgeous, charming, totally fit, sex-on-a-stick athlete, who is used to things going his way both on and off the field. This injury has thrown him and Grey throws him even more. Right from the start he is hooked by her, but fights his feelings tooth and nail. The timing is bad, he needs to focus on his career, there are things in her past that if they came out would create bad publicity for him and the team, and yet he can't let her go. Their romance is rocky and filled with trust issues, but their chemistry is off the charts. I loved them together and I loved that Ms. West has written this story from their alternating perspectives so we are privy to both of their inner dialogues. Even though I wanted to shake her a couple of times for her decisions, I loved Grey right from the start. There were aspects of Chase I loved right away too, but he was angry, surly, a non-repentant player through and through, and frankly a little selfish and spoiled for quite a bit of the book. However, I could see how his attitude was written very realistically for a man in his position and how much his personal changes and growth added to the story. I liked that it took him a while to be a man who deserved Grey, that he had to work for it and not the other way around.
Ms. West gives her readers a romantic tale of the small town girl who steals the heart of the seasoned player with hardly any effort on her part at all. That's actually part of her magic as far as Chase is concerned. She looks right through him to the man he is, tells him straight up when he's out of line, and yet still believes in him. She is intelligent, independent, understands and loves the game, and makes no effort to impress him. This is refreshing change for him and sparks his interest like no woman has done before. In Chase, Ms. West gives us the gorgeous, charming, totally fit, sex-on-a-stick athlete, who is used to things going his way both on and off the field. This injury has thrown him and Grey throws him even more. Right from the start he is hooked by her, but fights his feelings tooth and nail. The timing is bad, he needs to focus on his career, there are things in her past that if they came out would create bad publicity for him and the team, and yet he can't let her go. Their romance is rocky and filled with trust issues, but their chemistry is off the charts. I loved them together and I loved that Ms. West has written this story from their alternating perspectives so we are privy to both of their inner dialogues. Even though I wanted to shake her a couple of times for her decisions, I loved Grey right from the start. There were aspects of Chase I loved right away too, but he was angry, surly, a non-repentant player through and through, and frankly a little selfish and spoiled for quite a bit of the book. However, I could see how his attitude was written very realistically for a man in his position and how much his personal changes and growth added to the story. I liked that it took him a while to be a man who deserved Grey, that he had to work for it and not the other way around.
March 7, 2014
**Provided ARC for Review**
Ahh, how could I not love a hot, smexy baseball player? Truth is, I couldn’t. Chase Whitfield is coming off the injured list for his knee and his first game is playing for the minor league team associated with his major league team, the Kings. All he wants to do it is finish off his stint with the minor team and head back to New York. What he doesn’t expect is Grey.
Grey has loved Chase for as long as she can remember. No, she has never met him but she has loved him from afar. She has never missed a game he has played in and is shocked to find out he is going to pay in the minor’s in her town. Her sister drags her to the game, then proceeds to get drunk and taunts Chase. Chase has enough of her sister and has them thrown out of the game. However, before Grey leaves, she and Chase seem to connect.
Chase can’t believe he had her thrown out and can’t stop thinking about her. As luck would have it she show up where he is eating dinner. Needless to say that encounter doesn’t go well. When Grey leaves, he has his driver go after her. This starts their crazy, whirlwind relationship.
When Chase gets called back up to the King’s, he wants to keep Grey out of the spotlight; however, things are not that simple. Soon everyone knows about their relationship and he is determined to keep Grey’s secret past hidden. Grey is forced to realize that in order to keep her past buried, she must face her past. Chase soon finds out what where she has ran off to and is determined to save her.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Grey is a small town girl who falls in love with New York’s most eligible bachelor. Never in her wildest dreams does she think anything will ever become of her feelings. Chase’s injury makes him realize there is more to life than baseball and he wants more than what he has. When these two meet, you can almost feel the air sizzle. I couldn’t help but root for Grey and Chase to be together. There seemed to be so many obstacles in their way, but they were determined to make it work. Want to know what Grey’s secret is? If they get their HEA? Well, you are going to have to go get the book! You will not be disappointed!!
Ahh, how could I not love a hot, smexy baseball player? Truth is, I couldn’t. Chase Whitfield is coming off the injured list for his knee and his first game is playing for the minor league team associated with his major league team, the Kings. All he wants to do it is finish off his stint with the minor team and head back to New York. What he doesn’t expect is Grey.
Grey has loved Chase for as long as she can remember. No, she has never met him but she has loved him from afar. She has never missed a game he has played in and is shocked to find out he is going to pay in the minor’s in her town. Her sister drags her to the game, then proceeds to get drunk and taunts Chase. Chase has enough of her sister and has them thrown out of the game. However, before Grey leaves, she and Chase seem to connect.
Chase can’t believe he had her thrown out and can’t stop thinking about her. As luck would have it she show up where he is eating dinner. Needless to say that encounter doesn’t go well. When Grey leaves, he has his driver go after her. This starts their crazy, whirlwind relationship.
When Chase gets called back up to the King’s, he wants to keep Grey out of the spotlight; however, things are not that simple. Soon everyone knows about their relationship and he is determined to keep Grey’s secret past hidden. Grey is forced to realize that in order to keep her past buried, she must face her past. Chase soon finds out what where she has ran off to and is determined to save her.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Grey is a small town girl who falls in love with New York’s most eligible bachelor. Never in her wildest dreams does she think anything will ever become of her feelings. Chase’s injury makes him realize there is more to life than baseball and he wants more than what he has. When these two meet, you can almost feel the air sizzle. I couldn’t help but root for Grey and Chase to be together. There seemed to be so many obstacles in their way, but they were determined to make it work. Want to know what Grey’s secret is? If they get their HEA? Well, you are going to have to go get the book! You will not be disappointed!!
March 14, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Grey Kelleher idolized the all-star shortstop Chase Whitfield for a long time. She followed his career, watched his every game, but it was never really near freaky-stalking. Unlike girls who swoon at him because of his body, she was more into his game plays, of course his sexiness is just a add-on. Never in her wildest dreams she had imagined that the god would descend on their hometown, and she will see him!
And never did she imagine he could be a total a**.
First, she and her sister were dragged out of the field, then he refused to give her his autograph – is this the man that she had a crush on for the longest time? She was disappointed.
All he wanted to do was to play, and live privately, but with a healing knee injury, he needed to prove himself first on a minor league team before he went back to the major leagues. He’s only there to rehabilitate his injury, nothing else. There was no time for anything, or for anyone, no matter how attracted he is to Grey.
He might have underestimated Grey a little, she didn’t back, she fought him head on and spoke her mind. He liked his feistiness, and it might be what he need in his dull little world.
There was a time when all I wanted was for Grey to stay away from him. He might be rich, popular and reallllllllllly sexy – but it can’t compensate with his attitude. He can really be arrogant and cocky at times, and he will pique your temper somewhere along the way, but in the end, he will have your heart. Because change is the most permanent thing in the world. Maybe it was his injury, the fact that he almost can’t go back to the field, or Grey being all patient and understanding with him.
Chase Whitfield is one lucky SOB, that’s a given. Grey, I admire and love her character. She might be dirt poor, and is having the worse of luck with her life, but it didn’t deter her spirit. Instead, it had made her stronger. And someone with a strong spirit, and determination is what exactly Chase Whitfield needs.
Night Games is one heck of long novel. I didn’t expect to finish this late, nevertheless, it was worth it. There were twists I didn’t see coming - it gave me a little shiver and broke my heart a little. It may have times where the pacing can be slow, and you wished you can just skip some pages and see the ending, BUT the patience and the waiting will be all worth it.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
Grey Kelleher idolized the all-star shortstop Chase Whitfield for a long time. She followed his career, watched his every game, but it was never really near freaky-stalking. Unlike girls who swoon at him because of his body, she was more into his game plays, of course his sexiness is just a add-on. Never in her wildest dreams she had imagined that the god would descend on their hometown, and she will see him!
And never did she imagine he could be a total a**.
First, she and her sister were dragged out of the field, then he refused to give her his autograph – is this the man that she had a crush on for the longest time? She was disappointed.
All he wanted to do was to play, and live privately, but with a healing knee injury, he needed to prove himself first on a minor league team before he went back to the major leagues. He’s only there to rehabilitate his injury, nothing else. There was no time for anything, or for anyone, no matter how attracted he is to Grey.
He might have underestimated Grey a little, she didn’t back, she fought him head on and spoke her mind. He liked his feistiness, and it might be what he need in his dull little world.
There was a time when all I wanted was for Grey to stay away from him. He might be rich, popular and reallllllllllly sexy – but it can’t compensate with his attitude. He can really be arrogant and cocky at times, and he will pique your temper somewhere along the way, but in the end, he will have your heart. Because change is the most permanent thing in the world. Maybe it was his injury, the fact that he almost can’t go back to the field, or Grey being all patient and understanding with him.
Chase Whitfield is one lucky SOB, that’s a given. Grey, I admire and love her character. She might be dirt poor, and is having the worse of luck with her life, but it didn’t deter her spirit. Instead, it had made her stronger. And someone with a strong spirit, and determination is what exactly Chase Whitfield needs.
Night Games is one heck of long novel. I didn’t expect to finish this late, nevertheless, it was worth it. There were twists I didn’t see coming - it gave me a little shiver and broke my heart a little. It may have times where the pacing can be slow, and you wished you can just skip some pages and see the ending, BUT the patience and the waiting will be all worth it.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
February 28, 2014
4 Stars!
This book is wonderful. For me the beginning started out slow and there wasn't much to hold my attention, but I forged on, excited to get farther into the book. Once the story began, it was a world-wind romance. They fell fast for each other and had many obstacles to overcome.
When they first meet, it's not pretty. Chase glares at Grey, and hates her because he believes her sister is the reason he did so badly in his first baseball game back after being injured. So he blames her and is extremely mean to her, but he secretly wants her, because she seems different than other girls.
As for Grey, she is infuriated with Chase. She has followed his baseball career from the start and she put him up on this pedestal, and the reality of how he really is, saddens and angers her. So they go their separate ways after the game, but it wouldn't be a story without another meeting. And this one isn't much better, but at the end of this second meeting they end up escaping together, far away from the eyes of Grey's small town and Chase's obnoxious fans.
And this is when the story begins. They fall fast for each other, making decisions that would change both their lives forever. And then craziness ensues, and their story becomes more complicated by the day.
I really enjoyed this book. The only reason I give it four stars is for the fact that they fall for each other so fast. Their characters didn't have much depth yet, and then BAM! They're in love and fighting and trying to create something in a crazy situation. Other than that I would recommend this book for anyone who loves love conquering all. It's a sweet, exhilarating story that will have you smiling, quivering, screaming, and laughing.
This book is wonderful. For me the beginning started out slow and there wasn't much to hold my attention, but I forged on, excited to get farther into the book. Once the story began, it was a world-wind romance. They fell fast for each other and had many obstacles to overcome.
When they first meet, it's not pretty. Chase glares at Grey, and hates her because he believes her sister is the reason he did so badly in his first baseball game back after being injured. So he blames her and is extremely mean to her, but he secretly wants her, because she seems different than other girls.
As for Grey, she is infuriated with Chase. She has followed his baseball career from the start and she put him up on this pedestal, and the reality of how he really is, saddens and angers her. So they go their separate ways after the game, but it wouldn't be a story without another meeting. And this one isn't much better, but at the end of this second meeting they end up escaping together, far away from the eyes of Grey's small town and Chase's obnoxious fans.
And this is when the story begins. They fall fast for each other, making decisions that would change both their lives forever. And then craziness ensues, and their story becomes more complicated by the day.
I really enjoyed this book. The only reason I give it four stars is for the fact that they fall for each other so fast. Their characters didn't have much depth yet, and then BAM! They're in love and fighting and trying to create something in a crazy situation. Other than that I would recommend this book for anyone who loves love conquering all. It's a sweet, exhilarating story that will have you smiling, quivering, screaming, and laughing.
February 28, 2014
'Night Games' was a very hard book to get through, only because the characters were so hard to put up with! The hero, ESP in the begining of the book,came off as a douche bag. Such an ass!( and a bit of a whiner, know it all) And the heroine! At first I thought she'd be okay....that she'd stand up for herself and wouldn't take any of his shit...and she was....for like 5 seconds! Then she'd magically know what was going on in his head ( since she's his biggest fan or course she knows what he's thinking!) and make excuses for him and everything would be hunky dory again! Blech! I just wanted to hit her for the crap she let him get away with!
Now to be fair, the book itself was written pretty decently, ( minus some editing errors) so maybe it's just me who couldn't like these two MC's.
As far as the baseball bits go, there was some oft he actual game in the book, but more so in the end Han the begining. For those who aren't big fans, there was some terminology that was never explained...
Also the ending dragged a bit. I kept waiting for the book to end, but we kept getting a little bit more, and a little bit more, and then even more after that! If I'd have liked the book and the characters more, this would've been a good thing, but as it was, I was just eager to see it finally finish!
All together 2 stars.
Now to be fair, the book itself was written pretty decently, ( minus some editing errors) so maybe it's just me who couldn't like these two MC's.
As far as the baseball bits go, there was some oft he actual game in the book, but more so in the end Han the begining. For those who aren't big fans, there was some terminology that was never explained...
Also the ending dragged a bit. I kept waiting for the book to end, but we kept getting a little bit more, and a little bit more, and then even more after that! If I'd have liked the book and the characters more, this would've been a good thing, but as it was, I was just eager to see it finally finish!
All together 2 stars.
March 1, 2014
Review: I was given a copy of Night Games by Pretty lil page turners for an honest review. This book was different. It was a little slow to start but it turned out to be really good. Grey has been watching Chase on tv playing baseball for years. When she sees him in a bar in her hometown she has to be with him. When she goes up to him for an autograph she sees that he is a really big jerk. Chase doesn’t like being bombarded by fans. Even though he thinks that Grey is hot. Chase is in the last year of his contract and stuck having to prove himself in the minor leagues. He is trying to do rehab and fix an injury that is all he is in this town for. He isn’t looking for love. But Grey tells him off for being a jerk. Chase sees that Grey is just the distraction that he needs for not being in the major leagues. His heart is safe, he will always be a player. He doesn’t think that Grey can change that. This book is good and I enjoyed the read. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
March 25, 2014
I want to say that I thought this was going to be a great read, but it wasn't. I hardly like sport reads because I'm not that into sports I usually find someone good ones. This one wasn't it!!
All I got out of this was a Man-child as a Hero and a Push-over as a Heroine. I tried to get to the end but I only got to about 70% in hopes that it would get better. I didn't, it continued to get on my nerves.
There was a lot of things that shouldn't have been done. A lot of running off and not acting like adults. I won't be going back to this book. I can't stand for a Man-Child or a Push-over.
All I got out of this was a Man-child as a Hero and a Push-over as a Heroine. I tried to get to the end but I only got to about 70% in hopes that it would get better. I didn't, it continued to get on my nerves.
There was a lot of things that shouldn't have been done. A lot of running off and not acting like adults. I won't be going back to this book. I can't stand for a Man-Child or a Push-over.
February 28, 2014
Night Games was a romantic story about a swoon worthy yet self absorbed athlete who finds himself taken in by a stubborn local girl.
The story was sweet and funny, it was a quick and easy read.
The plot was good and the characters were playful. I really enjoyed this book, my only problem with the book is it felt almost rushed. One minute they hate each other the next minute he’s basically proposing. All in all I enjoyed the story and look forward to what the author has in store for us next.
4 stars
The story was sweet and funny, it was a quick and easy read.
The plot was good and the characters were playful. I really enjoyed this book, my only problem with the book is it felt almost rushed. One minute they hate each other the next minute he’s basically proposing. All in all I enjoyed the story and look forward to what the author has in store for us next.
4 stars
March 8, 2014
Night Games is a sweet and quick romantic read.
The plot is really great but a bit rushed. The characters are very well developed.
I enjoyed reading this book.
≧◔◡◔≦ 4 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
The plot is really great but a bit rushed. The characters are very well developed.
I enjoyed reading this book.
≧◔◡◔≦ 4 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
March 16, 2014
We are The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club, to know more about this book, go to the post in our website:
Night Games by Collette West
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 3 stars
Review:
Night Games was a good, sweet romance. While I have to admit that I liked it, I also have to say that I have some mixed feelings, too.
Grey's a good woman, hard worker, with a celebrity crush on Chase Whitman. One opportunity of watching her baseball idol with her sister, leads her to met him and that's the very moment Grey's world changes forever.
Chase Whitman had it all: fame, money, women and the dream work of being a baseball player. His life's now kind of miserable due to a leg injury, and the last thing he was searching for was a woman like Grey: who would put his world upside down.
Okay, I truly liked the idea: famous baseball player meets normal girl. Falls in love, a little bit of drama and they end up together, happily ever after. Sometimes you just want one of those stories and Night Games promised that.
While I enjoyed the story, it is also true that the plot was kind of slow and nothing big happens. To me, there was no "wow effect" and I couldn't quite catch the climatic point in the story. I ended up, rushing things a little bit just to get to the end and see how Grey and Chase's relationship would end.
Despite this, I liked the touch of drama in their relationship. The author mixed some actual problems with Grey's past and Chase's famous status and job. I liked that they both were implicated in the drama. There was also some action, brought by the couples' problems, that kept things interesting until the very end.
The romance was a good one. The main character is the perfect representation of a good girl, a hard worker who has a tough life since her mother's sick. She also sticks out for the people she cares and you easily like her from the beginning. Once thing in particular that I didn't like about her is her sudden mood change: she could easily go from hating Chase to the very next second remembering her teen crush on him and go all girly on him. It was kind of confusing to me.
Chase Whitman would be the perfect sporty guy: handsome, with money, a womanizer and someone who knew that had everything. You instantly like him, 'cause he's a good guy with a façade. However, there were some scenes where he seemed kind of bipolar: sometimes he was a jackass in his full man douchebag moves and all of a sudden was the sweetest and most comprehensive boy in the world. What? Wanna give me a heart-attack or what, Chase?
Pretty much the scenes between these two characters were lovable and sweet, but at the same time intense. There's a lot of potential in Chase and Grey's relationship and you end up liking them.
The only scene that didn't like and made me doubt about their relationship, was the whole let's get marry. It was way unexpected and soon (a few chapters only). And then Chase learns something bad about Grey's past and suddenly he can marry her anymore? I had to insert in this chapter a !"come-on-face".
The ending, once again, was nothing that wowed me. It was as expected a happily ever after, but without any swoony aspect or climatic touch that would blow my mind. I think that maybe I was expecting a little more about Collette's story.
Despite my mixed feelings with Night Games, I bet you would have a good time reading Collette West's debut novel. It's not an awful story, on the contrary, Chase and Grey's romance story is a good one, and I'm sure you would have a good time reading it. So give it a chance, it might surprise you!
Night Games by Collette West
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 3 stars
Review:
Night Games was a good, sweet romance. While I have to admit that I liked it, I also have to say that I have some mixed feelings, too.
Grey's a good woman, hard worker, with a celebrity crush on Chase Whitman. One opportunity of watching her baseball idol with her sister, leads her to met him and that's the very moment Grey's world changes forever.
Chase Whitman had it all: fame, money, women and the dream work of being a baseball player. His life's now kind of miserable due to a leg injury, and the last thing he was searching for was a woman like Grey: who would put his world upside down.
Okay, I truly liked the idea: famous baseball player meets normal girl. Falls in love, a little bit of drama and they end up together, happily ever after. Sometimes you just want one of those stories and Night Games promised that.
While I enjoyed the story, it is also true that the plot was kind of slow and nothing big happens. To me, there was no "wow effect" and I couldn't quite catch the climatic point in the story. I ended up, rushing things a little bit just to get to the end and see how Grey and Chase's relationship would end.
Despite this, I liked the touch of drama in their relationship. The author mixed some actual problems with Grey's past and Chase's famous status and job. I liked that they both were implicated in the drama. There was also some action, brought by the couples' problems, that kept things interesting until the very end.
The romance was a good one. The main character is the perfect representation of a good girl, a hard worker who has a tough life since her mother's sick. She also sticks out for the people she cares and you easily like her from the beginning. Once thing in particular that I didn't like about her is her sudden mood change: she could easily go from hating Chase to the very next second remembering her teen crush on him and go all girly on him. It was kind of confusing to me.
Chase Whitman would be the perfect sporty guy: handsome, with money, a womanizer and someone who knew that had everything. You instantly like him, 'cause he's a good guy with a façade. However, there were some scenes where he seemed kind of bipolar: sometimes he was a jackass in his full man douchebag moves and all of a sudden was the sweetest and most comprehensive boy in the world. What? Wanna give me a heart-attack or what, Chase?
Pretty much the scenes between these two characters were lovable and sweet, but at the same time intense. There's a lot of potential in Chase and Grey's relationship and you end up liking them.
The only scene that didn't like and made me doubt about their relationship, was the whole let's get marry. It was way unexpected and soon (a few chapters only). And then Chase learns something bad about Grey's past and suddenly he can marry her anymore? I had to insert in this chapter a !"come-on-face".
The ending, once again, was nothing that wowed me. It was as expected a happily ever after, but without any swoony aspect or climatic touch that would blow my mind. I think that maybe I was expecting a little more about Collette's story.
Despite my mixed feelings with Night Games, I bet you would have a good time reading Collette West's debut novel. It's not an awful story, on the contrary, Chase and Grey's romance story is a good one, and I'm sure you would have a good time reading it. So give it a chance, it might surprise you!
March 25, 2014
I love sports romances, but I haven't actually read any new adult ones before Night Games, so I was pretty excited for it, and I ended up really enjoying it! I did have some minor issues with the book, but overall, I thought it was a really enjoyable story. :)
While I did enjoy the story, there were two issues that I had that kept me from going from really liking it to loving it. The first was that Chase was quite contradictory at the beginning of the book, and he was such a douchebag in his own head that it was pretty hard to like him at first. He did change though, but I have to admit, that I was kind of unsure about him because he didn't seem very consistent...which is a bit odd when you're getting his POV. The second issue I had was Grey's plans for the future. She talks about not wanting to be dependent on a man, and her dad even mentions wanting something better for her...yet she has no actual plans for her future at all, and seems perfectly content to continue working in retail at the mall. It just seemed a bit strange to me that both Grey and her father were so expressive about her prospects, when she didn't really have any...or even plans, or even a relative idea of something beyond what she was already doing.
The Chase issue stopped bugging me within a few chapters because it seemed to fit more of his public persona than anything else, and the Grey issue only bugged me once her father showed up near the last third of the book, so they weren't issues that made me hate the book or anything. Like I said before, I actually really enjoyed it. :) Once he became more consistent, I loved Chase, and I just wanted to help him through his tough times soooo bad! And I really loved Grey! I loved that she wasn't afraid to stand up for herself or make her own choices, and she didn't let others influence or pressure her. It's definitely great to see a strong main character like her, even if she has no plans for the future. :P
I loved both Chase and Grey separately, but I also loved them together! Their chemistry was fantastic, and I really enjoyed how Collette West established their relationship. It was done quickly, but also in a way that made it feel authentic, and intimate. I also really liked that even though Chase and Grey were both super stubborn, they did get get better at facing their problems...and were actually able to talk them through. They might have walked away from each other at times to cool off, but they were open to talking, and they ended up being really great at communicating by the end of the book, which I really appreciated! And I seriously loved that they were willing to make the first move, too...it's nice to see characters actively trying to fix things in their relationships instead of just wallowing.
Overall, I thought that Night Games was a quick, and enjoyable read! I think it's one that it's best not to over-analyze (since I did read this one after a book for one of my English classes, and I find that sometimes puts me in a more critical reading mood :P), and instead it should just be enjoyed! I'd recommend this one to fans of romances with athletes or celebrities (in the novel, Chase definitely counts as both :P), especially if you love intense chemistry and characters who have a lot in common. :)
While I did enjoy the story, there were two issues that I had that kept me from going from really liking it to loving it. The first was that Chase was quite contradictory at the beginning of the book, and he was such a douchebag in his own head that it was pretty hard to like him at first. He did change though, but I have to admit, that I was kind of unsure about him because he didn't seem very consistent...which is a bit odd when you're getting his POV. The second issue I had was Grey's plans for the future. She talks about not wanting to be dependent on a man, and her dad even mentions wanting something better for her...yet she has no actual plans for her future at all, and seems perfectly content to continue working in retail at the mall. It just seemed a bit strange to me that both Grey and her father were so expressive about her prospects, when she didn't really have any...or even plans, or even a relative idea of something beyond what she was already doing.
The Chase issue stopped bugging me within a few chapters because it seemed to fit more of his public persona than anything else, and the Grey issue only bugged me once her father showed up near the last third of the book, so they weren't issues that made me hate the book or anything. Like I said before, I actually really enjoyed it. :) Once he became more consistent, I loved Chase, and I just wanted to help him through his tough times soooo bad! And I really loved Grey! I loved that she wasn't afraid to stand up for herself or make her own choices, and she didn't let others influence or pressure her. It's definitely great to see a strong main character like her, even if she has no plans for the future. :P
I loved both Chase and Grey separately, but I also loved them together! Their chemistry was fantastic, and I really enjoyed how Collette West established their relationship. It was done quickly, but also in a way that made it feel authentic, and intimate. I also really liked that even though Chase and Grey were both super stubborn, they did get get better at facing their problems...and were actually able to talk them through. They might have walked away from each other at times to cool off, but they were open to talking, and they ended up being really great at communicating by the end of the book, which I really appreciated! And I seriously loved that they were willing to make the first move, too...it's nice to see characters actively trying to fix things in their relationships instead of just wallowing.
Overall, I thought that Night Games was a quick, and enjoyable read! I think it's one that it's best not to over-analyze (since I did read this one after a book for one of my English classes, and I find that sometimes puts me in a more critical reading mood :P), and instead it should just be enjoyed! I'd recommend this one to fans of romances with athletes or celebrities (in the novel, Chase definitely counts as both :P), especially if you love intense chemistry and characters who have a lot in common. :)
March 10, 2014
“I don’t do humble.”—Chase
Golden baseball hero Chase Whitfield is the perfect guy for baseball fan Grey Kelleher. After all, she’s been in love with him since she was sixteen. It’s a dream come true when Chase is sent to her town to play in the minors while he recovers from an injury. Well, make that nightmare. It turns out Chase is a jerk—a jerk who gets her kicked out of a game. And the worst part? She’s caught Chase’s eye, and he plays to win…
“I think what he really needs is a friend—someone who’s not after his money or his fame.”—Grey
2I had mixed feelings while reading this book. First off, I really liked the characterization that the author did, particularly with Chase. Since the book alternates between Chase and Grey’s viewpoints, we got to know each of them well. Chase is a baseball star and basically the heart and soul of his team. That means he has a reputation to keep, and one slip up could mean millions of dollars lost in sponsorships and contract renewals. Given that, we can see why Chase struggles with relationships, and how he doubts anyone can live with the intense in-the-spotlight life that he has. We can see how fame has turned him cynical and hard since he has no idea who to trust—other than his immediate family.
Step in Grey who is a sweetheart with a rough patch in her past that spells disaster for a potential relationship with Chase. She’s a huge baseball fan, and the two of them can actually talk over stuff they have in common—although there is the sexual tension of a lust/love at first sight connection (medium heat level with fade-to-black love scenes). I loved that she wasn’t completely star struck and could handle Chase when he went overboard as mayor of Jerkville.
Hence the dilemma for me! I loved how the author painted the picture of why Chase can be a cynical jerk and a bit(!!) entitled, but there were so many times that I wanted to kick him for being such a jerk and mean! I wanted to yell at Grey for helping him while cheering on for her for transforming him from a commitment-phobe and self-centered playboy to the wonderful Chase at the end (the problem is that to see how loving he becomes later, you have to put up with him at the start). Since he was such a jerk at the start to Grey, I found it hard to believe that she would put up with him long enough to fall for the real him and not just what she knew from being his fan.
Otherwise, the story has its ups and downs, and I hated one of the plot points that was stopping them from being together since the shady moment from Grey’s past seemed so out-of-character for her. Like, seriously out-of-character and made me go ‘huh?’ reading it (although to tell the truth, I didn’t think it was as bad as Chase made it, but at least dealing with it made Chase a better person in the end).
What I absolutely loved was that the last few chapters was basically a really long epilogue where we get to see months and then years into the future to see the life that Chase and Grey have made together. So, not only does the story end complete without a cliffhanger, we get a bonus look into their happily every after! Overall, this is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Golden baseball hero Chase Whitfield is the perfect guy for baseball fan Grey Kelleher. After all, she’s been in love with him since she was sixteen. It’s a dream come true when Chase is sent to her town to play in the minors while he recovers from an injury. Well, make that nightmare. It turns out Chase is a jerk—a jerk who gets her kicked out of a game. And the worst part? She’s caught Chase’s eye, and he plays to win…
“I think what he really needs is a friend—someone who’s not after his money or his fame.”—Grey
2I had mixed feelings while reading this book. First off, I really liked the characterization that the author did, particularly with Chase. Since the book alternates between Chase and Grey’s viewpoints, we got to know each of them well. Chase is a baseball star and basically the heart and soul of his team. That means he has a reputation to keep, and one slip up could mean millions of dollars lost in sponsorships and contract renewals. Given that, we can see why Chase struggles with relationships, and how he doubts anyone can live with the intense in-the-spotlight life that he has. We can see how fame has turned him cynical and hard since he has no idea who to trust—other than his immediate family.
Step in Grey who is a sweetheart with a rough patch in her past that spells disaster for a potential relationship with Chase. She’s a huge baseball fan, and the two of them can actually talk over stuff they have in common—although there is the sexual tension of a lust/love at first sight connection (medium heat level with fade-to-black love scenes). I loved that she wasn’t completely star struck and could handle Chase when he went overboard as mayor of Jerkville.
Hence the dilemma for me! I loved how the author painted the picture of why Chase can be a cynical jerk and a bit(!!) entitled, but there were so many times that I wanted to kick him for being such a jerk and mean! I wanted to yell at Grey for helping him while cheering on for her for transforming him from a commitment-phobe and self-centered playboy to the wonderful Chase at the end (the problem is that to see how loving he becomes later, you have to put up with him at the start). Since he was such a jerk at the start to Grey, I found it hard to believe that she would put up with him long enough to fall for the real him and not just what she knew from being his fan.
Otherwise, the story has its ups and downs, and I hated one of the plot points that was stopping them from being together since the shady moment from Grey’s past seemed so out-of-character for her. Like, seriously out-of-character and made me go ‘huh?’ reading it (although to tell the truth, I didn’t think it was as bad as Chase made it, but at least dealing with it made Chase a better person in the end).
What I absolutely loved was that the last few chapters was basically a really long epilogue where we get to see months and then years into the future to see the life that Chase and Grey have made together. So, not only does the story end complete without a cliffhanger, we get a bonus look into their happily every after! Overall, this is a 3 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
April 28, 2014
**SHANYN'S REVIEW**
*3.5 Stars*
If you are in the mood for a “flirty, fun, make you smile” kind of book, then this is it! There’s some slight angst, but nothing major. And after reading, you walk away happy.
Grey Kelleher is a young, independent woman, from a small town, who loves baseball……especially shortstop Chase Whitfield. She has watched him since his rookie year. When Chase gets hurt, he ends up rehabbing for the minor league team in her town. So when she runs into him, after an unfortunate incident, she is thrown by how rude he can be. Grey is not the kind to hide her feelings, and tells him exactly how rude he is. That’s when the story takes off for me.
I did not like Chase in the beginning of this book. I understood his world, as he knows it, was falling apart around him, because of his injury, but I felt he was a rude, arrogant man. Eventually, he won me over, and I couldn’t stop reading, just to find out if there would be a happily ever after or not.
Chase and Grey live completely different lives. Chase doesn’t know if he wants to drag Grey into this lifestyle, and if she could even survive it.
“I don’t belong here. Chase is right. We would never work out in the long run.”
There are a number of obstacles for these two throughout the book, and a few moments that gave me “stomach butterflies”, but reading how they overcome the world around them was enjoyable. Chase messes up A LOT, but for some reason, I still liked him and wanted things to work out for them. There were a few times that I wanted to slap Chase through my kindle, but that is also what made me enjoy this book so much.
“I’m sick of trying to control whatever this is between us. You’re like a force of nature, Grey, throwing me in different directions, keeping me off balance. But at the same time, you make me feel things I’ve never felt before. Being with you has completely upended my life, but in the best way possible.”
This could have been a solid 4 star book for me, but I felt there were some parts that were a little far-fetched for me. Despite that, I really did enjoy reading this book, and always looked forward to getting back to my reading chair and curling up with my kindle, and Chase.
“Earning her love would be something worth striving for. It’d make me want to get up and face the day, regardless if I were still a Major League baseball player or not.”
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*3.5 Stars*
If you are in the mood for a “flirty, fun, make you smile” kind of book, then this is it! There’s some slight angst, but nothing major. And after reading, you walk away happy.
Grey Kelleher is a young, independent woman, from a small town, who loves baseball……especially shortstop Chase Whitfield. She has watched him since his rookie year. When Chase gets hurt, he ends up rehabbing for the minor league team in her town. So when she runs into him, after an unfortunate incident, she is thrown by how rude he can be. Grey is not the kind to hide her feelings, and tells him exactly how rude he is. That’s when the story takes off for me.
I did not like Chase in the beginning of this book. I understood his world, as he knows it, was falling apart around him, because of his injury, but I felt he was a rude, arrogant man. Eventually, he won me over, and I couldn’t stop reading, just to find out if there would be a happily ever after or not.
Chase and Grey live completely different lives. Chase doesn’t know if he wants to drag Grey into this lifestyle, and if she could even survive it.
“I don’t belong here. Chase is right. We would never work out in the long run.”
There are a number of obstacles for these two throughout the book, and a few moments that gave me “stomach butterflies”, but reading how they overcome the world around them was enjoyable. Chase messes up A LOT, but for some reason, I still liked him and wanted things to work out for them. There were a few times that I wanted to slap Chase through my kindle, but that is also what made me enjoy this book so much.
“I’m sick of trying to control whatever this is between us. You’re like a force of nature, Grey, throwing me in different directions, keeping me off balance. But at the same time, you make me feel things I’ve never felt before. Being with you has completely upended my life, but in the best way possible.”
This could have been a solid 4 star book for me, but I felt there were some parts that were a little far-fetched for me. Despite that, I really did enjoy reading this book, and always looked forward to getting back to my reading chair and curling up with my kindle, and Chase.
“Earning her love would be something worth striving for. It’d make me want to get up and face the day, regardless if I were still a Major League baseball player or not.”
I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2014
Night Games started off great; the writing style was excellent, almost right up my alley. Loved the descriptions, the relateable air to the main character, Grey, and the pace was perfect; gave me just enough time to "meet" the characters, get to know them, before I invested myself into their world, their story. I didn't particularly like Chase's point of view, he was arrogant, stuck-up, whiny, and superficial. His outlook on women and his celebrity status was disgusting. However, Collette West did a fantastic job on characterisation, so despite the fact that most of Chase's point of view sickened or angered me, I couldn't deny Collette's talent to create such a vivid, realistic image of Chase.
However, by about four-five chapters in, the plot took a really weird and confusing turn. Nothing was making sense to me, and the believability that was in the beginning completely disappeared; things turned from good, to bad, to terrible. Chase asked—or, practically told—Grey to marry him and move to New York with him not even 24 hours after they came into contact with each other. When it was discovered that Grey was once a stripper to make ends meet for two months, Chase completely disrespected her. Then he had the fucking nerve to demand her to strip for him, because he didn't like that she had stripped for so many men before him. Everything was always about him. Then after Grey told Chase she was a virgin, a quick sex scene ensued that was unsentimental; like it was just some hook-up, some prize for Chase—like taking someone's virginity is the best thing ever. And then all this other drama about a leaked video and other bullshit took place, which I skimmed over because it was just entirely useless. Chase never really changed throughout the book; he remained an entitled, possessive douche through the entire thing. One of the worst male personalities in a book I've read for a long time; I don't know why any sane person would want to develop such a character as Chase without having the intention of the character growing up and changing for the better. He was a horrible, irredeemable character. And in the end, Grey was no better; she went from a strong, intelligent female lead, to a weak, senseless doormat.
The first beginning five chapters were great, and then it was like beyond that point the rest of the book was written by a completely different author with a completely different plot idea than from the start of the story. It was just so strange. A big disappointment.
However, by about four-five chapters in, the plot took a really weird and confusing turn. Nothing was making sense to me, and the believability that was in the beginning completely disappeared; things turned from good, to bad, to terrible. Chase asked—or, practically told—Grey to marry him and move to New York with him not even 24 hours after they came into contact with each other. When it was discovered that Grey was once a stripper to make ends meet for two months, Chase completely disrespected her. Then he had the fucking nerve to demand her to strip for him, because he didn't like that she had stripped for so many men before him. Everything was always about him. Then after Grey told Chase she was a virgin, a quick sex scene ensued that was unsentimental; like it was just some hook-up, some prize for Chase—like taking someone's virginity is the best thing ever. And then all this other drama about a leaked video and other bullshit took place, which I skimmed over because it was just entirely useless. Chase never really changed throughout the book; he remained an entitled, possessive douche through the entire thing. One of the worst male personalities in a book I've read for a long time; I don't know why any sane person would want to develop such a character as Chase without having the intention of the character growing up and changing for the better. He was a horrible, irredeemable character. And in the end, Grey was no better; she went from a strong, intelligent female lead, to a weak, senseless doormat.
The first beginning five chapters were great, and then it was like beyond that point the rest of the book was written by a completely different author with a completely different plot idea than from the start of the story. It was just so strange. A big disappointment.
April 13, 2014
I liked it bug it could have been better...
when I read some of the reviews I debated on buying this book however I haven't let reviews dictate what I read so going on the synopsis I bought this book but I have to say it was a let down. I always say that I don't want to influence people on buying a book and true to that I don't want to influence you on buying and reading this book so with that said no that there will be spoilers in this coming paragraph
-----------SPOILER5S---------- read with caution
when I read the synopsis I was excited to read the scene where she is supposed to stand up to chase however when it came to it she didn't really say anything I thought it would be gratifying in her telling him he is a pompas ass but she didn't she walked out it was a big let down. then there isn't really much to the story I liked that the author knows her sports but this story really has no depth to it chase gets hurt then his poor me attitude and thinking he is gods gift and getting thinking his shit dont stink really pissed me off then when he goes after grey he is a jerk even though he doesn't want to be yeah right. the next morning after deciding to "give her up " he kisses her and proposes but the next second takes it back because she used to be a stripper for like a minute cause she was having a hard time when she found out her mother was sick if her secret comes out it will effect his life talk about selfish. then the story goes with grey going to him after he re hurts his knee but he is about to get a bj from the model girlfriend he kicks out but still doesn't want grey cause it will mess with his perfect image but when press gets word hes all in w t h I mean come on its not emotional at all I didn't connect with these characters at all. I liked that grey was into baseball and could actually state stats and not just into him for money and image. I normally don't give reviews unless I love the book and want others to read it as well. I wont say don't read this cause just cause it wasn't the best for me doesn't mean someone else wont love it. I don't know what its like to be an author and I wont pretend I do so coodos to this author for putting this book out there it just wasn't really up to my standared. I hope my view dosent incourge people not to buy this book as always decide for yourself and not based on my review.
when I read some of the reviews I debated on buying this book however I haven't let reviews dictate what I read so going on the synopsis I bought this book but I have to say it was a let down. I always say that I don't want to influence people on buying a book and true to that I don't want to influence you on buying and reading this book so with that said no that there will be spoilers in this coming paragraph
-----------SPOILER5S---------- read with caution
when I read the synopsis I was excited to read the scene where she is supposed to stand up to chase however when it came to it she didn't really say anything I thought it would be gratifying in her telling him he is a pompas ass but she didn't she walked out it was a big let down. then there isn't really much to the story I liked that the author knows her sports but this story really has no depth to it chase gets hurt then his poor me attitude and thinking he is gods gift and getting thinking his shit dont stink really pissed me off then when he goes after grey he is a jerk even though he doesn't want to be yeah right. the next morning after deciding to "give her up " he kisses her and proposes but the next second takes it back because she used to be a stripper for like a minute cause she was having a hard time when she found out her mother was sick if her secret comes out it will effect his life talk about selfish. then the story goes with grey going to him after he re hurts his knee but he is about to get a bj from the model girlfriend he kicks out but still doesn't want grey cause it will mess with his perfect image but when press gets word hes all in w t h I mean come on its not emotional at all I didn't connect with these characters at all. I liked that grey was into baseball and could actually state stats and not just into him for money and image. I normally don't give reviews unless I love the book and want others to read it as well. I wont say don't read this cause just cause it wasn't the best for me doesn't mean someone else wont love it. I don't know what its like to be an author and I wont pretend I do so coodos to this author for putting this book out there it just wasn't really up to my standared. I hope my view dosent incourge people not to buy this book as always decide for yourself and not based on my review.
March 10, 2014
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kimberlyfaye reads
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As a sports fan who has harbored many a crush on players, the idea of this book thrilled me. A woman gets a chance at meeting and eventually falling in love with her favorite baseball player. It's a female sports fan's dream. Unfortunately, there were just a few things about the book that didn't work for me.
There's insta-attraction or insta-lust and then there's insta-love. This was definitely the latter. Some people might find it sweet and romantic, and sometimes it can be. In Night Games, however, it just wasn't believable. The male lead was too much of a jerk to make it work for me. Chase is not my idea of a swoony book boyfriend. I can't put my finger on what bothered me about him so much about him, but I just couldn't connect with him. I think the most off-putting thing to me was that I found myself absolutely disgusted with his behavior towards Grey's past as a stripper. It was something she obviously wasn't proud of and he handled it so poorly it turned me off entirely to him. Their relationship progressed far too quickly and with little substance. Add to that the bizarre nature of the strip club extortion plotline and I was baffled.
What I will say is that I adored Grey. She was likable and I related to her. She was strong and spunky. She cared about people and was protective of those she loved. I think that's why I had such a difficult time with her relationship with Chase. I didn't find much redeemable about him. Sports idol or not, she could have done much better than him. I won't deny they had good chemistry. It just seemed very superficial from his standpoint and it left me wanting more depth.
I liked Collette's writing style, even if I didn't completely enjoy this book. The plot was unique and unexpected, even if not all of it worked for me. The beginning was strong and the book ended on a good note, but some of the chapters in between were difficult to get through because of my lack of connection to Chase.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
As a sports fan who has harbored many a crush on players, the idea of this book thrilled me. A woman gets a chance at meeting and eventually falling in love with her favorite baseball player. It's a female sports fan's dream. Unfortunately, there were just a few things about the book that didn't work for me.
There's insta-attraction or insta-lust and then there's insta-love. This was definitely the latter. Some people might find it sweet and romantic, and sometimes it can be. In Night Games, however, it just wasn't believable. The male lead was too much of a jerk to make it work for me. Chase is not my idea of a swoony book boyfriend. I can't put my finger on what bothered me about him so much about him, but I just couldn't connect with him. I think the most off-putting thing to me was that I found myself absolutely disgusted with his behavior towards Grey's past as a stripper. It was something she obviously wasn't proud of and he handled it so poorly it turned me off entirely to him. Their relationship progressed far too quickly and with little substance. Add to that the bizarre nature of the strip club extortion plotline and I was baffled.
What I will say is that I adored Grey. She was likable and I related to her. She was strong and spunky. She cared about people and was protective of those she loved. I think that's why I had such a difficult time with her relationship with Chase. I didn't find much redeemable about him. Sports idol or not, she could have done much better than him. I won't deny they had good chemistry. It just seemed very superficial from his standpoint and it left me wanting more depth.
I liked Collette's writing style, even if I didn't completely enjoy this book. The plot was unique and unexpected, even if not all of it worked for me. The beginning was strong and the book ended on a good note, but some of the chapters in between were difficult to get through because of my lack of connection to Chase.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2015
This was the author who made me fall in love with baseball and baseball romance with the second book in the series, Game Changer. I was really looking forward to knowing Grey and Chase Whitfield's story but unfortunately it wasn't what I'd expected.
Considering Game Changer was rather clean, I was a little turned off by the strong language and sexual situations in this book.
The story started out strong, and I was immediately pulled into it. I was intrigued by Chase's reaction to Grey's apperance at the stadium and I was looking forward to discover what was going to happen between them.
Even though I knew from the start that Chase had a reputation as a womanizer, I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt, but at times he really upset me. His reaction to Grey's revelation was really annoying, considering his womanizing ways.
I'm not particularly a fan of insta-love but I like insta-chemistry and there was plenty of this in the book.
After that, everything happened too quickly, especially after Chase's return to New York, and it sort of lost me. I couldn't keep up with Chase's behavior and, although I'm very much in favor of character growth and redemption, his own change seemed a little too sudden. Turning from a womanizer to a one-woman-only man happened really fast.
The second half of the book, especially the last couple of chapters and the epilogue, felt a little rushed. Too many events were summarized all together, and I would rather have some of the previous chapters summarized instead, while dwelling a little longer on these last ones.
This is only a personal preference, though. Someone else will find it perfect as it is.
If you're a fan of sexy baseball romance and don't mind colorful language and sexual situations, you will love this book.
I still find Game Changer to be my favorite in the series so far.
Considering Game Changer was rather clean, I was a little turned off by the strong language and sexual situations in this book.
The story started out strong, and I was immediately pulled into it. I was intrigued by Chase's reaction to Grey's apperance at the stadium and I was looking forward to discover what was going to happen between them.
Even though I knew from the start that Chase had a reputation as a womanizer, I decided to give him the benefit of the doubt, but at times he really upset me. His reaction to Grey's revelation was really annoying, considering his womanizing ways.
I'm not particularly a fan of insta-love but I like insta-chemistry and there was plenty of this in the book.
After that, everything happened too quickly, especially after Chase's return to New York, and it sort of lost me. I couldn't keep up with Chase's behavior and, although I'm very much in favor of character growth and redemption, his own change seemed a little too sudden. Turning from a womanizer to a one-woman-only man happened really fast.
The second half of the book, especially the last couple of chapters and the epilogue, felt a little rushed. Too many events were summarized all together, and I would rather have some of the previous chapters summarized instead, while dwelling a little longer on these last ones.
This is only a personal preference, though. Someone else will find it perfect as it is.
If you're a fan of sexy baseball romance and don't mind colorful language and sexual situations, you will love this book.
I still find Game Changer to be my favorite in the series so far.
March 16, 2015
** 4 Stars**
There's no way I could ever walk away from her after a kiss like that. This girl owns me, whether she realizes it or not. I'm a slave to her will. No one has ever made me feel like that---ever. I can just imagine what having sex with her will be like. There's no chance in hell I'm giving that up. I might be a selfish bastard for throwing her life into a tailspin, but i'll make it up to her if she just lets me worship her body. It's the least I can do for the media shitstorm I'm about to throw her into. But I'm not hiding Grey away out of sight. I'm not keeping her out of the public eye. I'm sick of being a fraud. If we're going to do this, we're going to do it all the way or not at all. I want everyone to know that she's the one. She's not a casual fling or some publicity stunt. She's what I've been waiting for, for so long. It's like I finally found my Holy fuckin' Grail.
This is a story about Grey and Chase. Grey is a small town girl and has a mad passion for baseball. She has loved Chase the major league star for many years by just watching him on television. When he gets injured and gets sent to the minor leagues to rehab she never imagined he would be sent to her small town. What happens when she attends her first game with him playing will change her life forever. Not only does he get her and her sister kicked out of the game but he changes the way Grey always perceived he would be, she never thought he could be so cruel and cocky. She soon finds herself stalking him and when they finally meet things spiral out of control from there. They find they can't fight the feelings they have found for eachother. But past demons have a way of creeping up and destroying everything they started to build together. His fame, his playboy ways... her past jobs, her insecurities, her innocence. Can they find the strength to bypass these hurdles and truly be happy?
This was a very easy read and rocky love story. I would recommend this book to friends and look forward to more from this author. Thanks for a good read!
There's no way I could ever walk away from her after a kiss like that. This girl owns me, whether she realizes it or not. I'm a slave to her will. No one has ever made me feel like that---ever. I can just imagine what having sex with her will be like. There's no chance in hell I'm giving that up. I might be a selfish bastard for throwing her life into a tailspin, but i'll make it up to her if she just lets me worship her body. It's the least I can do for the media shitstorm I'm about to throw her into. But I'm not hiding Grey away out of sight. I'm not keeping her out of the public eye. I'm sick of being a fraud. If we're going to do this, we're going to do it all the way or not at all. I want everyone to know that she's the one. She's not a casual fling or some publicity stunt. She's what I've been waiting for, for so long. It's like I finally found my Holy fuckin' Grail.
This is a story about Grey and Chase. Grey is a small town girl and has a mad passion for baseball. She has loved Chase the major league star for many years by just watching him on television. When he gets injured and gets sent to the minor leagues to rehab she never imagined he would be sent to her small town. What happens when she attends her first game with him playing will change her life forever. Not only does he get her and her sister kicked out of the game but he changes the way Grey always perceived he would be, she never thought he could be so cruel and cocky. She soon finds herself stalking him and when they finally meet things spiral out of control from there. They find they can't fight the feelings they have found for eachother. But past demons have a way of creeping up and destroying everything they started to build together. His fame, his playboy ways... her past jobs, her insecurities, her innocence. Can they find the strength to bypass these hurdles and truly be happy?
This was a very easy read and rocky love story. I would recommend this book to friends and look forward to more from this author. Thanks for a good read!
March 1, 2014
I was really, really enjoying this book until half way through. That is where this book took a nose dive for me. After the halfway mark everything became too unbelievable at times and I had a hard time finishing the story because of the way the characters were acting. I was sick of the way they would jump around emotionally with one another. Both were borderline bipolar, it seemed. And it was enough to turn me off from liking them or even caring if they ended up with one another in the end. But I had this nagging need to finish it and see what Grey's big secret was. Unfortunately that is where most the 'unbelievable' part comes in.
Grey...she is this great girl at the beginning that you really like. She is on her own and living life to the best that she can. Not having money hampers her need to get out and see the world, but she makes the most of it. But halfway though, I saw this change in her and it wasn't for the best. It was like she caved to Chase Whitfield. And all her confidence and feistiness went bye-bye.
Chase...I felt the author was constantly contradicting herself when it came to him. One min he was saying how uncomfortable he was around people with money even though he was loaded, only to turn around and want to be treated like royalty. The way he would jump around in his feelings was downright nauseating. He had no idea what so ever what he wanted and to me, he couldn't be trusted.
Storyline...I had high hopes as the story was starting out. But as I mentioned the story went downhill for me. Parts were at times rushed and other scenes dragged. There just wasn't a steady pace to the story.
I am rating it 3 stars because it was a good read that kept my interest a majority of the time and it was fun and flirty at the beginning. But it wasn't enough to rate higher than that. At least from me. Like all stories, you'll have to read if for yourself to see if this book is for you or not.
Grey...she is this great girl at the beginning that you really like. She is on her own and living life to the best that she can. Not having money hampers her need to get out and see the world, but she makes the most of it. But halfway though, I saw this change in her and it wasn't for the best. It was like she caved to Chase Whitfield. And all her confidence and feistiness went bye-bye.
Chase...I felt the author was constantly contradicting herself when it came to him. One min he was saying how uncomfortable he was around people with money even though he was loaded, only to turn around and want to be treated like royalty. The way he would jump around in his feelings was downright nauseating. He had no idea what so ever what he wanted and to me, he couldn't be trusted.
Storyline...I had high hopes as the story was starting out. But as I mentioned the story went downhill for me. Parts were at times rushed and other scenes dragged. There just wasn't a steady pace to the story.
I am rating it 3 stars because it was a good read that kept my interest a majority of the time and it was fun and flirty at the beginning. But it wasn't enough to rate higher than that. At least from me. Like all stories, you'll have to read if for yourself to see if this book is for you or not.
August 12, 2016
I must say I was a little torn with the read and think I would have to say it’s a 3.5 star read for me.
Grey Kelleher is Chase Whitfield’s #1 fan!!! At times you would think it’s possible she may know more about him than he even knows about himself! Grey gets her chance at meeting Chase when he comes to play in her town. She goes to the game with her sister, Erin…. Whom I adore by the way! She is your typical over-the-top fan!! I think that Collette West did an awesome job writing Erin’s character.
Chase comes across as a jerk but in reality can we really blame him. All he wants to do is be able to enjoy a dinner without being bothered for a picture or autograph and he can’t even do that. I can’t even imagine what celebrities and athletes must go through all the time and not to have a single meal outside of the home without being bothered has to be frustrating. So, part of me can understand why Chase would come across that way. There is something about Grey though that catches his eye.
Their romance seemed rushed to me though…. I would have liked to have seen more of a build up between the characters. It was a meeting one day, spend one evening together and then a proposal the next…. It was just way too speedy…. Of course they didn’t really get engaged it’s just the point. But, then when Grey’s past comes up it was like… BAM!!!! …. Where did that come from???
I will say I thought it was sweet the note that Chase sent to Grey to make her stay in the parking lot that first night. It showed a deeper side to him and showed that he truly did pay attention and cared about his fans.
I thought the ending was sweet but needed more. It was a good, quick, easy read! It is like a version of Cinderella where the small town girl catches the attention of the high paid athlete. It’s told from both Grey and Chase’s point of views which definitely gives you a better insight on both characters!
Grey Kelleher is Chase Whitfield’s #1 fan!!! At times you would think it’s possible she may know more about him than he even knows about himself! Grey gets her chance at meeting Chase when he comes to play in her town. She goes to the game with her sister, Erin…. Whom I adore by the way! She is your typical over-the-top fan!! I think that Collette West did an awesome job writing Erin’s character.
Chase comes across as a jerk but in reality can we really blame him. All he wants to do is be able to enjoy a dinner without being bothered for a picture or autograph and he can’t even do that. I can’t even imagine what celebrities and athletes must go through all the time and not to have a single meal outside of the home without being bothered has to be frustrating. So, part of me can understand why Chase would come across that way. There is something about Grey though that catches his eye.
Their romance seemed rushed to me though…. I would have liked to have seen more of a build up between the characters. It was a meeting one day, spend one evening together and then a proposal the next…. It was just way too speedy…. Of course they didn’t really get engaged it’s just the point. But, then when Grey’s past comes up it was like… BAM!!!! …. Where did that come from???
I will say I thought it was sweet the note that Chase sent to Grey to make her stay in the parking lot that first night. It showed a deeper side to him and showed that he truly did pay attention and cared about his fans.
I thought the ending was sweet but needed more. It was a good, quick, easy read! It is like a version of Cinderella where the small town girl catches the attention of the high paid athlete. It’s told from both Grey and Chase’s point of views which definitely gives you a better insight on both characters!
May 6, 2014
Grey loves baseball, always has. she knows everything about the Kings. Her favorite player, Chase Whitfield. Unfortunately, Chase has been put on the injured player list when he injured his knee. But lucky for her, he's playing his first game back for the farm team nearby and her sister was able to score tickets. Their eyes meet, they couldn't look away.....
When we heard from Chase's POV, I wasn't sure how I felt about him. He seemed kinda full of himself and really self-centered. But then there would be a comment her and there that lead me to believe there was more to him. No one saw the real him, the man beneath the baseball star. That is until Grey. When their eyes locked, he felt like she really saw him, saw the man beneath. Unfortunately he was a jerk again, and had her and her sister thrown out of the stadium. There were so many times when he did that, my head began to spin. He'd act like she was the perfect one for him, then he'd push way in the most rude and hurtful ways. I just frustrated me.
In the end though, I realized that he was doing all of that to try to protect both her and himself. Protect her from the the relentlessness of the press and protect him from being hurt again. After all, he'd been involved with too many women that only wanted him for attention, his fame, or him money. All while realizing that he may never return to baseball again. Luckily, Grey is more patient and forgiving than I would have ever been. She kept coming back for more. And in the end, it was worth all the heart ache.
When we heard from Chase's POV, I wasn't sure how I felt about him. He seemed kinda full of himself and really self-centered. But then there would be a comment her and there that lead me to believe there was more to him. No one saw the real him, the man beneath the baseball star. That is until Grey. When their eyes locked, he felt like she really saw him, saw the man beneath. Unfortunately he was a jerk again, and had her and her sister thrown out of the stadium. There were so many times when he did that, my head began to spin. He'd act like she was the perfect one for him, then he'd push way in the most rude and hurtful ways. I just frustrated me.
In the end though, I realized that he was doing all of that to try to protect both her and himself. Protect her from the the relentlessness of the press and protect him from being hurt again. After all, he'd been involved with too many women that only wanted him for attention, his fame, or him money. All while realizing that he may never return to baseball again. Luckily, Grey is more patient and forgiving than I would have ever been. She kept coming back for more. And in the end, it was worth all the heart ache.
May 26, 2014
This was a sweet love story about a small town girl who finally meets the secret love of her life. Did I mention he also happens to be a famous baseball player? Grey has loved baseball all of her life and has followed the career of Chase Whitfield for as long as she can remember. She never dreamed she would actually meet him.
I really liked Grey's character. She was down to earth and a bit of a loner. She never needed the hustle and bustle of the real world. She was quite content living in her own private secluded area where no one could bother her. I wasn't too crazy about Chase at the beginning (and sometimes throughout the book) but he definitely grew on me. And yes...he is a bit swoon worthy :)
Their first meeting wasn't what Grey had expected. Chase was rude and Grey wasn't about to take it. She was able to stick up for herself which only made Chase want her even more. One thing I did not enjoy was the multiple times he was rude and sometimes hurtful to her. Why did he keep pushing her away? In the end, you realize his motives for the way he acted and he does redeem himself.
All in all, the book was an enjoyable read. Even though I don't know a lot about baseball, I was able to learn more about it. The best part for me was the ability to know what Grey and Chase were feeling. Reading both POV's helped me identify with both characters. The writing was smooth and the storyline flowed nicely.
The epilogue was probably my favorite part. Knowing what happens in the future was truly wonderful. A story of love, romance and sacrifice that I think you will enjoy :)
I really liked Grey's character. She was down to earth and a bit of a loner. She never needed the hustle and bustle of the real world. She was quite content living in her own private secluded area where no one could bother her. I wasn't too crazy about Chase at the beginning (and sometimes throughout the book) but he definitely grew on me. And yes...he is a bit swoon worthy :)
Their first meeting wasn't what Grey had expected. Chase was rude and Grey wasn't about to take it. She was able to stick up for herself which only made Chase want her even more. One thing I did not enjoy was the multiple times he was rude and sometimes hurtful to her. Why did he keep pushing her away? In the end, you realize his motives for the way he acted and he does redeem himself.
All in all, the book was an enjoyable read. Even though I don't know a lot about baseball, I was able to learn more about it. The best part for me was the ability to know what Grey and Chase were feeling. Reading both POV's helped me identify with both characters. The writing was smooth and the storyline flowed nicely.
The epilogue was probably my favorite part. Knowing what happens in the future was truly wonderful. A story of love, romance and sacrifice that I think you will enjoy :)
July 17, 2014
After receiving the book as part of this blog tour I started having doubts. I was in a bad mood, I did not feel like reading, but I did because I gave my word. I don’t break promises, so I stared reading it on a Saturday morning and I don’t regret it.
The book is not overly complex, it was easy to read and the story was really interesting. I found a few things a bit absurd, but I am pretty sure that they happened at least once so I did not let that bother me.
I loved both main characters, I adored Chase from the beginning but after a while I was a bit unsure about him. He was portrayed like the poor boy who became a celebrity and had to live the life and pretend for the sake of his career. I had nothing against that, but when he acted like a jerk, I wanted to kill him. It was so realistic that for one second I forgot that he is a nice person underneath that mask he insists on wearing. His reaction to Grey’s news/ past was not great either. He jumped from one feeling to teh other like it was nothing, like they were not talking about something extremely serious. I get that most people would react like that, but it still felt weird.
Grey was okay in the beginning, but after that she annoyed me a little bit. She was so strong and after that it was like she lost her spirit. She was supposed to be a fighter.
Definitely, a book worth reading when you are free. The story is beautiful, it is a HEA, it’s perfect for a rainy day of when you just want to relax, but it is nothing out of the ordinary.
The book is not overly complex, it was easy to read and the story was really interesting. I found a few things a bit absurd, but I am pretty sure that they happened at least once so I did not let that bother me.
I loved both main characters, I adored Chase from the beginning but after a while I was a bit unsure about him. He was portrayed like the poor boy who became a celebrity and had to live the life and pretend for the sake of his career. I had nothing against that, but when he acted like a jerk, I wanted to kill him. It was so realistic that for one second I forgot that he is a nice person underneath that mask he insists on wearing. His reaction to Grey’s news/ past was not great either. He jumped from one feeling to teh other like it was nothing, like they were not talking about something extremely serious. I get that most people would react like that, but it still felt weird.
Grey was okay in the beginning, but after that she annoyed me a little bit. She was so strong and after that it was like she lost her spirit. She was supposed to be a fighter.
Definitely, a book worth reading when you are free. The story is beautiful, it is a HEA, it’s perfect for a rainy day of when you just want to relax, but it is nothing out of the ordinary.
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