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Santa Fe Bobcats #2
Loving Him Off the Field
Sometimes the best defense is a good offense…
Aileen is a sports reporter trying to make a name for herself without relying on her looks, And what better way to do that than to break a scandal about one of the fastest rising stars on the Santa Fe Bobcats? Killian seems too good to be true, so she knows he must be hiding something…
It’s hard enough breaking into the NFL—even more so when you’re a single dad. Killian isn’t proud that he’s keeping his son a secret, but his ex has a reputation that could tarnish his squeaky clean image for good. So when Aileen starts sniffing around, Killian decides to distract her by any means necessary.
But Aileen is more than capable of giving as good as she gets…
Aileen is a sports reporter trying to make a name for herself without relying on her looks, And what better way to do that than to break a scandal about one of the fastest rising stars on the Santa Fe Bobcats? Killian seems too good to be true, so she knows he must be hiding something…
It’s hard enough breaking into the NFL—even more so when you’re a single dad. Killian isn’t proud that he’s keeping his son a secret, but his ex has a reputation that could tarnish his squeaky clean image for good. So when Aileen starts sniffing around, Killian decides to distract her by any means necessary.
But Aileen is more than capable of giving as good as she gets…
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2014
33 people are currently reading
700 people want to read
About the author
Jeanette Murray
18 books406 followersFacebook.com/JeanetteMurrayBooks
@KJMurrayBooks
Jeanette lives just outside St. Louis with her husband, daughter and their lovable-but-stupid Goldendoodle. When she's not writing her next romance, she's found hanging out with the new friends she's made here, catching up with old friends from past duty stations on Facebook, or surfing Pinterest pretending she can cook. Catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter for contests, sneak peeks of what she's working on, and updates about her life in general.
@KJMurrayBooks
Jeanette lives just outside St. Louis with her husband, daughter and their lovable-but-stupid Goldendoodle. When she's not writing her next romance, she's found hanging out with the new friends she's made here, catching up with old friends from past duty stations on Facebook, or surfing Pinterest pretending she can cook. Catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter for contests, sneak peeks of what she's working on, and updates about her life in general.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 27, 2014
3.5 Stars
Aileen is struggling journalist trying to make a name for herself while keeping her integrity. She wanted to live up to her parent’s example as trustworthy journalists. Finding a breakthrough story is proving difficult when she doesn’t want to compromise her principals. That is until she spies Killian, the Bobcat’s kicker and media mystery. He stays out of the spotlight and almost nothing is known about him. Looks like Aileen has her work cut out for her, though, because Killian is reluctant, bordering on hostile. Aileen won’t take no for an answer and goes on wearing him down. She doesn’t plan on falling for him in the process, and even though they go beyond their professional relationship, Aileen wonders what kind of future they could have if Killian never fully trusts her.
Killian is intrigued by the petite, freckled Aileen until he finds out she’s a reporter. Killian avoids the media and press at all costs for the sake of his young son, Charlie. No one knows of his existence and if they did, it could stir up a hurtful past that Killian is trying to keep buried. Killian agrees to an interview, but on his terms in an effort to control what gets out. But the more he gets to know Aileen the more he falls for her.
I admired Aileen from the very beginning. It was evident from the start that she didn’t want to be a trashy reporter capitalizing on other’s drama and trauma. She has pressure from her boss to go after sensationalized stories, but she stands her ground and still keeps her integrity. Knowing she was basically on her own in the world after losing her parents at the age of eighteen made my heart go out to her even more. Aileen didn’t let Killian’s abrasiveness turn her away and didn’t let his comments hurt her for the most part, but I hurt for her.
While I can understand where Killian was coming from once I found out exactly why he wanted to keep Charlie’s existence secret, I didn’t get an inkling what the secret was until about 72% into the book. This made is especially hard to make allowances in the meantime for Killian’s gruff and rude behavior. Yes, he was attracted to Aileen and he couldn’t keep his hands off her, but Killian was on constant guard and never completely trusted her until almost the end. Even though it was more than evident, IMO, that Aileen wasn’t like other cutthroat reporters. Still, as a parent I can understand how his desire to protect Charlie would cause him to be so hesitant.
I did still enjoy their romance, and the fact that once Killian realized how amazing Aileen was, he went all in won me over. I was happy when Killian started seeing the big picture and let his walls down, not just with Aileen, but with his fellow teammates as well. They were able to provide support and friendship he’d been missing out on for so long. The ending of Loving Him Off the Field was everything that I hoped for.
A copy was provided by InterMix in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
Aileen is struggling journalist trying to make a name for herself while keeping her integrity. She wanted to live up to her parent’s example as trustworthy journalists. Finding a breakthrough story is proving difficult when she doesn’t want to compromise her principals. That is until she spies Killian, the Bobcat’s kicker and media mystery. He stays out of the spotlight and almost nothing is known about him. Looks like Aileen has her work cut out for her, though, because Killian is reluctant, bordering on hostile. Aileen won’t take no for an answer and goes on wearing him down. She doesn’t plan on falling for him in the process, and even though they go beyond their professional relationship, Aileen wonders what kind of future they could have if Killian never fully trusts her.
Killian is intrigued by the petite, freckled Aileen until he finds out she’s a reporter. Killian avoids the media and press at all costs for the sake of his young son, Charlie. No one knows of his existence and if they did, it could stir up a hurtful past that Killian is trying to keep buried. Killian agrees to an interview, but on his terms in an effort to control what gets out. But the more he gets to know Aileen the more he falls for her.
I admired Aileen from the very beginning. It was evident from the start that she didn’t want to be a trashy reporter capitalizing on other’s drama and trauma. She has pressure from her boss to go after sensationalized stories, but she stands her ground and still keeps her integrity. Knowing she was basically on her own in the world after losing her parents at the age of eighteen made my heart go out to her even more. Aileen didn’t let Killian’s abrasiveness turn her away and didn’t let his comments hurt her for the most part, but I hurt for her.
While I can understand where Killian was coming from once I found out exactly why he wanted to keep Charlie’s existence secret, I didn’t get an inkling what the secret was until about 72% into the book. This made is especially hard to make allowances in the meantime for Killian’s gruff and rude behavior. Yes, he was attracted to Aileen and he couldn’t keep his hands off her, but Killian was on constant guard and never completely trusted her until almost the end. Even though it was more than evident, IMO, that Aileen wasn’t like other cutthroat reporters. Still, as a parent I can understand how his desire to protect Charlie would cause him to be so hesitant.
I did still enjoy their romance, and the fact that once Killian realized how amazing Aileen was, he went all in won me over. I was happy when Killian started seeing the big picture and let his walls down, not just with Aileen, but with his fellow teammates as well. They were able to provide support and friendship he’d been missing out on for so long. The ending of Loving Him Off the Field was everything that I hoped for.
A copy was provided by InterMix in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
October 22, 2014
I love a good sports romance and this one was fantastic! I loved Aileen! She is smart and funny and goes after what she wants. Aileen is a journalist who is doing sports fluff pieces. Killian is the Bobcats kicker. He's a loner and pretty much just keeps to himself. He's keeping a secret and doesn't want anyone to find out about it. He's not happy when the adorable, freckled reporter starts following him for an interview. I loved these two characters! The chemistry between them was hot, they had some really great banter, they were unique and I just really liked both of them. I love this series! The first book, with Cassie and Trey was so good and I was so happy they made appearances in this book as well. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a sweet and sexy romance or who loves a sports romance.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
October 23, 2014
2.5 Not so much Stars!!
Source: eARC for Honest Review Courtesy of Intermix/Penguin
Okay, so the truth is sports romances are my guilty pleasure *blush* and I was excited to read this one after quite liking the first of the series One night with a quarterback sadly, this book didn't quite do it for me. :(
Here we have Killian who is the kicker of the Santa Fe Bobcats who happens to be a self imposed loner on and off the team. He chooses this because he has a secret that needs to be kept close to the belt.
Aileen is pixie like journalist who has integrity but also wants a good story. Her job wants her to run a story on the loner of the team ... Killian Reeves. As she starts to get her story, she also gets under Killian's skin. Killian is drawn to her but wants to keep her at hands reach because of his secret but their attaction is too strong to be denied so they cross the lines from professional to casual but don't know where it leads to.
To get the interview Aileen is supposed to interview Killian for 30 days but he negotiates it for him to interview her for half of it. They agree to alternate days. Here is the crux of the matter for me basically they are supposed to interview each other for a big chunk of the book but they never really asked each other anything. They went through the motions at times and the time frame went by but there was like maybe 6 questions asked back in forth in total. I think it was supposed to feel like the time was going by while in reality they were really getting to know each other, but it was really left flat for me as I was waiting and waiting and waiting for more. This in turn caused the progression of their relationship to move forward painfully slow and then once they turn the corner of their relationship bang it is full speed ahead.
Gah! I wanted to like it so much more. It is a part of a series but could be read as a stand alone however probably wouldn't make you want to move forward with the series as the first one did. In One night with the quarterback there was much better growth development with the other players. This book felt kind of out of no where with Killian being the loner of the team and not really part of the first book. I liked elements of it but I was bored and waiting for so much more from this book. Killian's secret was decent and I like how that all played out but it was such a quick reveal and perfectly worked out that it took away from the potential of backlash from the secret.
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January 5, 2019
3.5 en realidad.
Una historia a la altura del primer libro.
Me ha gustado mucho la química de los protagonistas. Killian es un protagonista masculino poco habitual, introvertido y poco social al que cuando le toca a él narrar la historia vemos dubitativo de sus decisiones, lamentando cosas que le gustaría cambiar y, en definivita, siendo real. Aileen, por otro lado, es una mujer independiente y divertida que sabe defendese a sí misma, hacerse valer y no se deja ningunear.
Me ha sorprendido gratamente que el comienzo de la historia sea paralela al primer libro, básicamente porque nos aporta algo más de información de Killian y lo incluye más en el equipo. A fin de cuentas, aunque es el kicker del equipo, en la primera entrega su nombre no salió más que una vez (lo cual va en consonancia con su actitud distinte con el equipo, y lo hace todo más realista), pero al poder ver todo aquello de su perspectiva mientras se desarrolla su relación con Aileen, le integra un poco más en la historia y en el equipo.
En un primer momento pensaba que la trama iba a ser más aburrida. ¿Una reportera y un jugador con un secreto que no quiere desvelar? Muy cliché, y un cliché que a mí particularmente no me apasiona. Pero me alegra que haya sido mejor de lo que me esperaba... Lo que saca la trama adelante es, precisamente, que el secreto se mantiene en misterio bastante tiempo. No el echo de que Killian sea padre, eso el lector lo descubre casi en el primer capítulo (aunque, claramente, no Aileen); pero lo que sí que no entendemos desde el principio es ¿por qué mantenerlo en secreto?
Emma y Killian tienen una buena relación, mantienen el contacto y expresan sus deseos de poder darle lo mejor a Charlie y evitar un escándalo que destrozaría su infancia. Pero se mantienen hasta bastante avanzada la novela muy ambiguos... ¿cuál puede ser el problema? Esa intriga te mantiene en vilo y te tira para adelante.
Lo que, al contrario, no me ha gustado tanto, es que para mantener esa misma intriga viva, hay un momento en la parte intermedia del libro que me ha parecido repetitivo y por ello algo más pesado. Se cae un poco en la rutina de "eres reportera, no me fío de ti -> ahora parece que estrechamos lazos -> algo sospechoso hace que vuelva a mostrar que no me fío -> vuelta a empezar), y no es que esté mal, porque realmente tienen una relación dulce y divertida que se lee de maravilla... pero al final me he quedado con la sensación de que se podría haber sacado la baza "descubrir el secreto" un poco antes para amenizar ese tramo.
Una historia a la altura del primer libro.
Me ha gustado mucho la química de los protagonistas. Killian es un protagonista masculino poco habitual, introvertido y poco social al que cuando le toca a él narrar la historia vemos dubitativo de sus decisiones, lamentando cosas que le gustaría cambiar y, en definivita, siendo real. Aileen, por otro lado, es una mujer independiente y divertida que sabe defendese a sí misma, hacerse valer y no se deja ningunear.
Me ha sorprendido gratamente que el comienzo de la historia sea paralela al primer libro, básicamente porque nos aporta algo más de información de Killian y lo incluye más en el equipo. A fin de cuentas, aunque es el kicker del equipo, en la primera entrega su nombre no salió más que una vez (lo cual va en consonancia con su actitud distinte con el equipo, y lo hace todo más realista), pero al poder ver todo aquello de su perspectiva mientras se desarrolla su relación con Aileen, le integra un poco más en la historia y en el equipo.
En un primer momento pensaba que la trama iba a ser más aburrida. ¿Una reportera y un jugador con un secreto que no quiere desvelar? Muy cliché, y un cliché que a mí particularmente no me apasiona. Pero me alegra que haya sido mejor de lo que me esperaba... Lo que saca la trama adelante es, precisamente, que el secreto se mantiene en misterio bastante tiempo. No el echo de que Killian sea padre, eso el lector lo descubre casi en el primer capítulo (aunque, claramente, no Aileen); pero lo que sí que no entendemos desde el principio es ¿por qué mantenerlo en secreto?
Emma y Killian tienen una buena relación, mantienen el contacto y expresan sus deseos de poder darle lo mejor a Charlie y evitar un escándalo que destrozaría su infancia. Pero se mantienen hasta bastante avanzada la novela muy ambiguos... ¿cuál puede ser el problema? Esa intriga te mantiene en vilo y te tira para adelante.
Lo que, al contrario, no me ha gustado tanto, es que para mantener esa misma intriga viva, hay un momento en la parte intermedia del libro que me ha parecido repetitivo y por ello algo más pesado. Se cae un poco en la rutina de "eres reportera, no me fío de ti -> ahora parece que estrechamos lazos -> algo sospechoso hace que vuelva a mostrar que no me fío -> vuelta a empezar), y no es que esté mal, porque realmente tienen una relación dulce y divertida que se lee de maravilla... pero al final me he quedado con la sensación de que se podría haber sacado la baza "descubrir el secreto" un poco antes para amenizar ese tramo.
June 9, 2023
4.5/5
I LOVE.
Picture grumpy-sunshine but add in a reporter and a NFL player with a history to hide.
Pick this one up for a laugh.
“I think you flew back a couple of feet. Like watching a rag doll get tossed.” “Not making me feel better, Coach.”
“You know, you might be the worst groupie I’ve ever seen. You’re supposed to make the guys feel like gods, not knock them down off the pedestal.”
“Maybe I have a thing for stubborn guys with sulky attitudes.” He scowled. “I don’t sulk.” What a stupid thing to say. One corner of her full mouth tilted up. “You kinda do sulk.”
“She’s like this annoying, buzzing, tiny, little freckled beetle that just circles you until you can’t see anything else and can’t focus and—”
I LOVE.
Picture grumpy-sunshine but add in a reporter and a NFL player with a history to hide.
Pick this one up for a laugh.
“I think you flew back a couple of feet. Like watching a rag doll get tossed.” “Not making me feel better, Coach.”
“You know, you might be the worst groupie I’ve ever seen. You’re supposed to make the guys feel like gods, not knock them down off the pedestal.”
“Maybe I have a thing for stubborn guys with sulky attitudes.” He scowled. “I don’t sulk.” What a stupid thing to say. One corner of her full mouth tilted up. “You kinda do sulk.”
“She’s like this annoying, buzzing, tiny, little freckled beetle that just circles you until you can’t see anything else and can’t focus and—”
February 14, 2015
Review can be read at It's About The Book
I honestly have to applaud Ms. Murray for her ingenuity. I’ve been a lifelong reader, and at the tender age of 50+ I’ve read… er, doing the math… a gajillion books by now, and I’ve never never never come across the twist that she uses as the reason that this football player plays hard to get in this inspired, sexy, contemporary sports romance about a Santa Fe Bobcats player and a sports journalist. It was awesome to be guessing and guessing and to have it revealed and think… wow. I would never have thought of that and it’s actually a real reason. It’s not that he’s a panther shifter or something. It’s real!
Perky tiny Aileen is a writer for an online sports magazine that teeters on the brink of being TMZ. It’s part celebrity gossip, part hard-hitting sports news. Guess which one she gets to cover. Stories about groupies, tatoos on the wives of professional jocks, and more dot her resume. But she’s out to get the harder hitting stuff. She’d love to move to broadcast news, but as she stares longingly at the Amazons of the business with their height, beauty and big boobs, she knows her flat chest, short hair and short stature take her totally out of the running. So she’s aiming for what she thinks she can get. Written journalism. And she’s got a good shot since she’s a great writer, if only Bobby Mundane, the editor of Off Season, would give her a chance. He’s told her she’s got to get one of the “Great Whites” of the business–a news story that no one else can get. Either the story of the Prodigal Daughter (the story of Murray’s previous book, One Night with a Quarterback) Cassie Wainwright, the team owner’s daughter, or Killian Reeves, the illusive Santa Fe Bobcat.
Killian Reeves is the kicker for the Santa Fe Bobcats football team. The kicker is usually the redheaded stepchild on the football team–no one likes the kicker because he plays rarely but when he does, it’s really important. But Killian hadn’t even started out in football! He was a soccer player at heart. When he didn’t made the cut for the soccer team in college his freshman year, as luck would have it the football coach had been watching. He saw something he could work with in Killian and asked him to come and try out for the empty kicker position. He did and was offered a position on the football team.
While football really wasn’t his sport, Killian had worked hard to learn the new kicking position. And it turned out he was good at it–good enough to go pro. But as with all things that come too easily, Killian felt like he didn’t deserve the life he had. He didn’t respect himself and therefore didn’t demand respect from anyone else either. Since the kicker’s position was already a half-resented position, people were already inclined to doubt him, which made it a recipe for disaster. An incident his rookie year had marred his relationship with the certain players on the team, and even though they were gone, he still kept a wide gulf between himself and the others. So he was pretty lonely, and he had a pretty huge secret he was protecting.
So what else is Aileen to do but try to convince Killian to give her a story–any story–to help her move up the ladder at her job. She plays hard to get, using her new friends on the team as shields to get him jealous enough to pay attention to her. When he finally does, sparks ignite and the story gets hot between the journalist in search of a career-making story and the football player with a lot to loose with this particular lady in love…
I honestly have to applaud Ms. Murray for her ingenuity. I’ve been a lifelong reader, and at the tender age of 50+ I’ve read… er, doing the math… a gajillion books by now, and I’ve never never never come across the twist that she uses as the reason that this football player plays hard to get in this inspired, sexy, contemporary sports romance about a Santa Fe Bobcats player and a sports journalist. It was awesome to be guessing and guessing and to have it revealed and think… wow. I would never have thought of that and it’s actually a real reason. It’s not that he’s a panther shifter or something. It’s real!
Perky tiny Aileen is a writer for an online sports magazine that teeters on the brink of being TMZ. It’s part celebrity gossip, part hard-hitting sports news. Guess which one she gets to cover. Stories about groupies, tatoos on the wives of professional jocks, and more dot her resume. But she’s out to get the harder hitting stuff. She’d love to move to broadcast news, but as she stares longingly at the Amazons of the business with their height, beauty and big boobs, she knows her flat chest, short hair and short stature take her totally out of the running. So she’s aiming for what she thinks she can get. Written journalism. And she’s got a good shot since she’s a great writer, if only Bobby Mundane, the editor of Off Season, would give her a chance. He’s told her she’s got to get one of the “Great Whites” of the business–a news story that no one else can get. Either the story of the Prodigal Daughter (the story of Murray’s previous book, One Night with a Quarterback) Cassie Wainwright, the team owner’s daughter, or Killian Reeves, the illusive Santa Fe Bobcat.
Killian Reeves is the kicker for the Santa Fe Bobcats football team. The kicker is usually the redheaded stepchild on the football team–no one likes the kicker because he plays rarely but when he does, it’s really important. But Killian hadn’t even started out in football! He was a soccer player at heart. When he didn’t made the cut for the soccer team in college his freshman year, as luck would have it the football coach had been watching. He saw something he could work with in Killian and asked him to come and try out for the empty kicker position. He did and was offered a position on the football team.
While football really wasn’t his sport, Killian had worked hard to learn the new kicking position. And it turned out he was good at it–good enough to go pro. But as with all things that come too easily, Killian felt like he didn’t deserve the life he had. He didn’t respect himself and therefore didn’t demand respect from anyone else either. Since the kicker’s position was already a half-resented position, people were already inclined to doubt him, which made it a recipe for disaster. An incident his rookie year had marred his relationship with the certain players on the team, and even though they were gone, he still kept a wide gulf between himself and the others. So he was pretty lonely, and he had a pretty huge secret he was protecting.
So what else is Aileen to do but try to convince Killian to give her a story–any story–to help her move up the ladder at her job. She plays hard to get, using her new friends on the team as shields to get him jealous enough to pay attention to her. When he finally does, sparks ignite and the story gets hot between the journalist in search of a career-making story and the football player with a lot to loose with this particular lady in love…
October 21, 2014
My Review:
I loved the first book in this series and enjoyed this one just as much.
Killian is a pro NFL kicker with a secret. As a result, he doesn't let anyone into his life...not his teammates, not the fans, and sure not the media. He has a son who's he's sacrificed everyone in his world for...to protect him. But that's the big mystery throughout so much of this book...why is it so important that NO ONE find out about this child? I couldn't see what could make that secret such a huge deal...until the author revealed the exact circumstances and then it all made sense. That part of the story line is perfectly played and written with the perfect levels of suspense to it.
On the flip side of all this is Aileen. She's a reporter who works for a sports themed blog. She does fluff pieces without stooping to paparazzi levels. She hates that aspect of the media and refuses to twist her own personal ideals for the sake of her job...although that is causing issues with her boss and the stability of her job. But Killian is so reclusive and closed-mouth that he's a hot commodity. One that Aileen has managed to ingratiate herself with. He's agreed to do an unheard of 30-day-all-access interview with Aileen...mainly because he's become intrigued with her unusual approach and the chemistry between them.
I loved Aileen and Killian together. They are so fun especially when he's grumpy and annoyed with her. But he can't seem to help but be drawn to her because she is just that honest and real with him and what she wants from him. I loved how unbending Aileen is with her personal rules for invasion of privacy no matter how difficult that makes her job as a journalist. She won't compromise her ideals for the sake of a juicy story. I admired and respected that about her...just like the other ball players in the story responded to that also.
The secret with Charlie, Killian's son, is such a huge one. I kept debating what the issue could be with Charlie to make his existence such a hard-kept secret, but I had no guesses and the tiny things I could come up with were no where close to what it truly was. I love it when an author can surprise me like that.
Killian has a huge character development arc in this story and it is so fun to watch him grow and learn to trust again...from his ability to trust his new-found friendships and camaraderie within his team to trusting Aileen as a journalist. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and just the overall story on this one. It's just flat-out a fun-to-read story. I definitely recommend it and can't wait for more from this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I loved the first book in this series and enjoyed this one just as much.
Killian is a pro NFL kicker with a secret. As a result, he doesn't let anyone into his life...not his teammates, not the fans, and sure not the media. He has a son who's he's sacrificed everyone in his world for...to protect him. But that's the big mystery throughout so much of this book...why is it so important that NO ONE find out about this child? I couldn't see what could make that secret such a huge deal...until the author revealed the exact circumstances and then it all made sense. That part of the story line is perfectly played and written with the perfect levels of suspense to it.
On the flip side of all this is Aileen. She's a reporter who works for a sports themed blog. She does fluff pieces without stooping to paparazzi levels. She hates that aspect of the media and refuses to twist her own personal ideals for the sake of her job...although that is causing issues with her boss and the stability of her job. But Killian is so reclusive and closed-mouth that he's a hot commodity. One that Aileen has managed to ingratiate herself with. He's agreed to do an unheard of 30-day-all-access interview with Aileen...mainly because he's become intrigued with her unusual approach and the chemistry between them.
I loved Aileen and Killian together. They are so fun especially when he's grumpy and annoyed with her. But he can't seem to help but be drawn to her because she is just that honest and real with him and what she wants from him. I loved how unbending Aileen is with her personal rules for invasion of privacy no matter how difficult that makes her job as a journalist. She won't compromise her ideals for the sake of a juicy story. I admired and respected that about her...just like the other ball players in the story responded to that also.
The secret with Charlie, Killian's son, is such a huge one. I kept debating what the issue could be with Charlie to make his existence such a hard-kept secret, but I had no guesses and the tiny things I could come up with were no where close to what it truly was. I love it when an author can surprise me like that.
Killian has a huge character development arc in this story and it is so fun to watch him grow and learn to trust again...from his ability to trust his new-found friendships and camaraderie within his team to trusting Aileen as a journalist. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and just the overall story on this one. It's just flat-out a fun-to-read story. I definitely recommend it and can't wait for more from this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
November 24, 2014
I absolutely LOVED the first book in the series and was excited for the next one. When LOVING HIM OFF THE FIELD came out, I was a little skeptical. I’d been reading a lot of books lately that haven’t been able to capture my interest and I was afraid that it might be the same with this one. I’m happy to report that this is not the case at all!
Killian is the kicker for the Santa Fe Bobcats NFL team. He’s broody and severely private. He’s got some huge secrets he wants to keep that way so he isolates himself from everyone, including his teammates. He’s been burned before and can’t risk opening up to someone, despite his loneliness.
Aileen is a freckle-faced 5-foot tall journalist stuck doing fluff pieces for an online news outlet trying to be taken seriously. While doing a report on the team’s groupies, she spots Killian and his adverse effect on everyone and smells a story there.
When Aileen is tasked with bringing in a serious interview with the cranky kicker, she is totally on board; anything to establish herself as a serious journalist. When Killian denies her request for an interview, she starts hanging out after practice and games talking to fans and players while leaving him alone. He finds this both irritating and intriguing.
Killian can’t seem to stop thinking about the saucy spitfire but he can’t afford his secret to get out either so he agrees to the interview, with some strict stipulations of course. Aileen agrees and somehow ends up striking a deal with Killian to interview him and also having him ask her questions in the process!
As Killian and Aileen spend more time together, passions ignite…and when they kiss, Ooooooh Fire! Can Killian trust Aileen with his secrets or will the past rear its ugly head and ruin everything, including a chance at love?
LOVING HIM OFF THE FIELD overlaps some of the timeline with the first book so we get some scenes with Trey and Cassie as well as spending time with a few other players on the team, Michael and Josiah and a scene with Cassie’s sisters! The book is part of a series but can easily be read as a standalone.
This book blew me away! Killian and Aileen are amazing characters with realistic problems. Both have a wicked sense of humor, heavily laced with sarcasm that had me laughing every time they shared a scene. The plot was heartfelt and an absolute joy to read! You don’t need to be a sports fan to love this series, but you do need to allot some lengthy reading time because you won’t want to put this book down! I’m excited to find out which player takes the hot seat next!
***I was gifted an eBook copy from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
Killian is the kicker for the Santa Fe Bobcats NFL team. He’s broody and severely private. He’s got some huge secrets he wants to keep that way so he isolates himself from everyone, including his teammates. He’s been burned before and can’t risk opening up to someone, despite his loneliness.
Aileen is a freckle-faced 5-foot tall journalist stuck doing fluff pieces for an online news outlet trying to be taken seriously. While doing a report on the team’s groupies, she spots Killian and his adverse effect on everyone and smells a story there.
When Aileen is tasked with bringing in a serious interview with the cranky kicker, she is totally on board; anything to establish herself as a serious journalist. When Killian denies her request for an interview, she starts hanging out after practice and games talking to fans and players while leaving him alone. He finds this both irritating and intriguing.
Killian can’t seem to stop thinking about the saucy spitfire but he can’t afford his secret to get out either so he agrees to the interview, with some strict stipulations of course. Aileen agrees and somehow ends up striking a deal with Killian to interview him and also having him ask her questions in the process!
As Killian and Aileen spend more time together, passions ignite…and when they kiss, Ooooooh Fire! Can Killian trust Aileen with his secrets or will the past rear its ugly head and ruin everything, including a chance at love?
LOVING HIM OFF THE FIELD overlaps some of the timeline with the first book so we get some scenes with Trey and Cassie as well as spending time with a few other players on the team, Michael and Josiah and a scene with Cassie’s sisters! The book is part of a series but can easily be read as a standalone.
This book blew me away! Killian and Aileen are amazing characters with realistic problems. Both have a wicked sense of humor, heavily laced with sarcasm that had me laughing every time they shared a scene. The plot was heartfelt and an absolute joy to read! You don’t need to be a sports fan to love this series, but you do need to allot some lengthy reading time because you won’t want to put this book down! I’m excited to find out which player takes the hot seat next!
***I was gifted an eBook copy from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
November 21, 2014
Hummmm... Definitely not as enjoyable as Trey's book. This story really centered around Killian's secret. There was no romance just lust that somehow became a HEA.
I loved the inclusion of the other players. I just wish the relationship part had been more built up.
I loved the inclusion of the other players. I just wish the relationship part had been more built up.
October 23, 2014
I love sports romance books, and while this one was good, it didn't really wow me like some others I've read. The writing was good and all that, I just wanted something more.
C+
Full review posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2014/10/17/...
C+
Full review posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2014/10/17/...
December 2, 2014
I would have given it 4 stars but the secret about the hero's son just dragged on too long.
June 23, 2017
Cute read, review to come
September 28, 2016
4 secret stars!
P.S.: I love when the couple have mature conversations after they fight and then they're honest with each other, it gets me all tingly inside LOL
P.S.: I love when the couple have mature conversations after they fight and then they're honest with each other, it gets me all tingly inside LOL
April 24, 2019
LOVING HIM OFF THE FIELD was a cute story, filled with lika-able characters and a good story line. IMO it was missing that certain something. That WOW! factor. Killian's the quiet and reserved pro football player and Aileen is the reporter sent to scoop him. I liked Aileen and how up front she was with not only Killian but other's she could've "tricked" into getting ahead. I thought it was a cute idea the way they made her reporting a game.
October 22, 2014
Loving Him off the Field by Jeanette Murray
It’s nice to take a break now and then from historical romance novels and I was so interested to read a contemporary romance novel featuring sports celebrities. I really enjoyed the sports books by Jill Shalvis and Jaci Burton, so I was hoping this was along similar lines. It was a great read. I’m not a huge NFL fan. The most I know about it is that there are games on Sunday, Monday and Thursday nights and my hubby is glued to the tv. But with this book, you don’t need intimate knowledge of the sport to enjoy the story. The author clearly explains all the sports information you need to know which lets you relax and enjoy the romance between the two characters.
Aileen is a reporter. She comes by this professional honestly as her parents were award winning journalists and photojournalists. She lost them when she was just a teenager and it feels like her chosen profession is homage to the lives they lived as a family. She is working for an online outlet that is certainly not in the major leagues. She likes her work, but is getting tired of working in fluff pieces about sports celebrities, like hidden talents, tailgating food and groupies. She longs for a good, meaty piece she can get her breakout hit with. Even though she is hungry for this big break, she has a moral streak running a mile wide. She despises some of the tactics other reporters resort to and feels her professionalism and integrity is what will make her stand apart from the rest – once she gets her career really going.
She determines that she is going to do a piece on the enigma Killian. He is the team kicker. I love how the author describes the position as the ‘redheaded child’ of the team. The position that isn’t the highest profile and certainly not the flashiest. Call it intrigue or just knowing deep down that this is someone she is meant to connect with, Aileen makes it her mission to get the story on Killian.
This terrifies Killian. He is quiet and reserved. Even with his teammates, he keeps to himself. The loner of the team who won’t even join them for an after game drink or pizza. He zealously guards his personal life and when the every trusty google fails to score any information on him, Aileen has no other choice but to wear him down for an interview.
Killian likes Aileen, even though he finds her a pest and a reporter (basically the worst enemy). He immediately nicknames her ‘Freckles’ and even though he tries really hard, he just can’t shake her. Slowly he realizes he doesn’t want to shake her off. He admires her professionalism. He begins to let his guard down with her and finds companionship. He eventually agrees to the piece on him and sets a timeline of a month for her to get her interview. He has one caveat though – he gets to interview her as well. Only later when he examines his conscious does he realize that he is falling for little ‘Freckles’. This complication scares the pants off him as he doesn’t do relationships. It also scares him because he is hiding a very big secret. He convinces himself that by agreeing to do the interview he can manage the information and keep his secret hidden.
The thirty days they spent together were like being on thirty dates. It was like watching two people get to know one another, discover the people they are together and fall in love. It gets steamy between the two quickly (the tree incident was hilarious), but they realize they are crossing a line between interviewer and interviewee. At times they examine what this will mean for the interview, for each other and for the future, but they just relish the time they spend together. The bedroom scenes are hot. Killian and Aileen are sensual lovers, as well as friends. Killian was very good between the sheets and his fascination with freckles made my toes curl.
When they are together, it’s so fun to read about them trying to keep up with each other. Aileen almost keels over from hiking with Killian. Killian joins her at her bowling league and it becomes apparent that being athletic means you are good at all sports. There were really funny moments to this book and really tender ones as well.
You get the sense that Killian is a very good person, the kind of guy some woman would be lucky to have. Aileen has had a tough life and while she is not fragile, she needs a man like Killian who appreciates her choices in life and doesn’t judge her. Although he heartily dislikes her frugality, especially her car and choice of apartment.
Killian’s big secret is a ticking time bomb and it’s only a matter of time before the truth is out. I respected how Aileen handled the story of a lifetime. She showed honour and integrity and it wound up giving her an even bigger shot at the big leagues of journalism.
The ending of the story was so perfect I had a tear in my eye. Of course these two would get their happily ever after, they deserved it! It didn’t feel rushed; rather the author developed their relationship so well that it seemed only right that they find the happiness they deserve.
Reviewed for www.kiltsandswords.com Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
It’s nice to take a break now and then from historical romance novels and I was so interested to read a contemporary romance novel featuring sports celebrities. I really enjoyed the sports books by Jill Shalvis and Jaci Burton, so I was hoping this was along similar lines. It was a great read. I’m not a huge NFL fan. The most I know about it is that there are games on Sunday, Monday and Thursday nights and my hubby is glued to the tv. But with this book, you don’t need intimate knowledge of the sport to enjoy the story. The author clearly explains all the sports information you need to know which lets you relax and enjoy the romance between the two characters.
Aileen is a reporter. She comes by this professional honestly as her parents were award winning journalists and photojournalists. She lost them when she was just a teenager and it feels like her chosen profession is homage to the lives they lived as a family. She is working for an online outlet that is certainly not in the major leagues. She likes her work, but is getting tired of working in fluff pieces about sports celebrities, like hidden talents, tailgating food and groupies. She longs for a good, meaty piece she can get her breakout hit with. Even though she is hungry for this big break, she has a moral streak running a mile wide. She despises some of the tactics other reporters resort to and feels her professionalism and integrity is what will make her stand apart from the rest – once she gets her career really going.
She determines that she is going to do a piece on the enigma Killian. He is the team kicker. I love how the author describes the position as the ‘redheaded child’ of the team. The position that isn’t the highest profile and certainly not the flashiest. Call it intrigue or just knowing deep down that this is someone she is meant to connect with, Aileen makes it her mission to get the story on Killian.
This terrifies Killian. He is quiet and reserved. Even with his teammates, he keeps to himself. The loner of the team who won’t even join them for an after game drink or pizza. He zealously guards his personal life and when the every trusty google fails to score any information on him, Aileen has no other choice but to wear him down for an interview.
Killian likes Aileen, even though he finds her a pest and a reporter (basically the worst enemy). He immediately nicknames her ‘Freckles’ and even though he tries really hard, he just can’t shake her. Slowly he realizes he doesn’t want to shake her off. He admires her professionalism. He begins to let his guard down with her and finds companionship. He eventually agrees to the piece on him and sets a timeline of a month for her to get her interview. He has one caveat though – he gets to interview her as well. Only later when he examines his conscious does he realize that he is falling for little ‘Freckles’. This complication scares the pants off him as he doesn’t do relationships. It also scares him because he is hiding a very big secret. He convinces himself that by agreeing to do the interview he can manage the information and keep his secret hidden.
The thirty days they spent together were like being on thirty dates. It was like watching two people get to know one another, discover the people they are together and fall in love. It gets steamy between the two quickly (the tree incident was hilarious), but they realize they are crossing a line between interviewer and interviewee. At times they examine what this will mean for the interview, for each other and for the future, but they just relish the time they spend together. The bedroom scenes are hot. Killian and Aileen are sensual lovers, as well as friends. Killian was very good between the sheets and his fascination with freckles made my toes curl.
When they are together, it’s so fun to read about them trying to keep up with each other. Aileen almost keels over from hiking with Killian. Killian joins her at her bowling league and it becomes apparent that being athletic means you are good at all sports. There were really funny moments to this book and really tender ones as well.
You get the sense that Killian is a very good person, the kind of guy some woman would be lucky to have. Aileen has had a tough life and while she is not fragile, she needs a man like Killian who appreciates her choices in life and doesn’t judge her. Although he heartily dislikes her frugality, especially her car and choice of apartment.
Killian’s big secret is a ticking time bomb and it’s only a matter of time before the truth is out. I respected how Aileen handled the story of a lifetime. She showed honour and integrity and it wound up giving her an even bigger shot at the big leagues of journalism.
The ending of the story was so perfect I had a tear in my eye. Of course these two would get their happily ever after, they deserved it! It didn’t feel rushed; rather the author developed their relationship so well that it seemed only right that they find the happiness they deserve.
Reviewed for www.kiltsandswords.com Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2020
Aileen and Killian are the least interesting couple of the series. It has a lot of potential but there was so much bowling and self deprecated humor which is just not for me. Not the worst book. Not for me.
June 11, 2017
Another really good sports romance. I loved how the importance of integrity was portrayed in this story. The characters are great and it is a really enjoyable read.
July 22, 2018
Nothing really sets this apart from others like it. Ending seemed a little rushed.
July 15, 2019
I underestimated this book!
July 29, 2019
About 4.5 stars
August 11, 2023
⛔️(in notes)
November 22, 2019
I received this book for free from NetGalley, Publisher in exchange for an honest review.This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Delight
A sweet one of the guys report falling for her interviewee kicker on a football team. Throw romance and football together and I am ready to tackle it and score a touch down!
Just look at that cover. It makes me want to drool. I can take hair on a man's chest or not, so this is one of those not moments. Makes you want to oil him down doesn't it girls? *wink*
Jeanette Murray has grabbed me as an author I have read almost all of her books on. Well, I am two behind actually on her military series, but hey, I am sticking with these Bobcats to the end! She writes honest humans who deal with issues we all deal with. Her heroines really knock me over for their strength, level headedness, honor and sense of humor. Throw in hero's that also have these qualities and you have romance made in football heaven!
Killian is a quiet charmer as the Santa Fe Bobcats resident kicker. Quiet charmer, well, he gets charming but he comes out rough, abrupt and totally a grumpy guy in the first part of the story. For a hero, he was on the short side, but I wouldn't call him short at 5' 10". It seems football is just a job. Not what I was expecting when I went into this football romance. He keeps quiet, too himself and never goes out with the guys or talks to the press. And he is hiding a secret. One he plans to not reveal and will do anything to protect.
Then Aileen, a sports reporter, figuratively slams into Killian and sends his world spinning both in good ways and bad. Aileen is also vertically challenged. Short, petite, but a firecracker. She doesn't really know how to seduce a guy and frankly that's not what she cares about either. She's a fireball for sure and no quitter. She has integrity that I admire as she isn't looking for a sex scandal or digging into everyone's private lives. Wanting real reporting stories, she is told to get an exclusive interview with Killian and she just might get a better stories to report on. Oh, her boss is a total sexist sleaze bag.
So Killian tries everything to get her to forget about him, but Aileen just wants to interview him and starts following the team around to do fluff stories like how many marshmallows can Michael put in his mouth. Or how Josiah knows bike tricks. Getting under his skin with silly stories and while she looks like she might be flirting with the players, she actually is more like a sister to them. Neither one really want to fall for the other, but they are extremely attracted to each other.
I loved these two and how they interacted. There was humor and sass. As down to earth as you can get with parts like this....
If you want football, there are small snapshots throughout the story, but mostly this takes place off the field. In the bed, in the bed, oh, did I mention they had some sexy times in bed? But I do have to point out on glaringly bad part that I hope gets fixed in the final draft, which I didn't have at the time of this writing.
Well, if this is the NFL, football season starts in the beginning to middle of September, with pre-season before hand. There are 16 games in 17 weeks....so if it is mid-September, the play-offs don't even start until January. See my dilemma...yeah, I am a huge football fan so this got me right off. Edging to play-offs doesn't seem to happen till game 8 in my mind. Ok, let's let this one drop and move on.
Loving Him Off the Field a smart romance full of heartwarming moments, depth of character and surprises that even got me. I just can't wait for the next football player to fall...into my book grubby hands!
Do you like a lot of sports scenes in your sports romances?
Have you read any sports romances?
October 25, 2014
Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I was thrilled to get back to the Santa Fe Bobcats …. Baseball season is over so …. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL! Sorry! I guess you have to be a football fan and watch a lot of it on TV. But, the Bobcats are fictional so I guess I’ll have to swoon over them instead of rooting for my favorite team … nope, not going there and making enemies! And, with all the controversy surrounding the NFL these days, it’s nice to see the good guys – even if they are in a book! So, back to Aileen and Killian …. the Kicker!
Normally, you would think the hot guys were the Quarterback (as we saw in One Night With a Quarterback), or the Wide-receiver. Who would have thought that the hot guy would be the Kicker, Killian Reeves. Quite, to-himself with his teammates and especially reporters, Killian has secrets that he does not want revealed. He’s not ashamed of his son, he’s just afraid of what will be said of who his parents are and the circumstances surrounding his birth. Until one female walks into his life and he is questioning everything surrounding his life. But, she’s a reporter – she cannot find out about his other life.
Aileen Rogers comes from a family of reporters. Her mother was a Journalist and her father a Photo Journalist. Both lived their lives to their fullest and wrote and photographed award-winning pieces. But, her place is in front of the camera, reporting on the news. All she needs is a break but working for an on-line sports blog isn’t going to get it for her. Or is it? Always given the “fluff” pieces, Aileen is told to get the dirt on Killian Reeves, get him to open up – get the elusive interview that no one can get. Easier said than done! He ignores her and turns her on and she has no time for men in her life. Plus, a reporter never lusts after her subject, never mind sleep with him.
Together, Killian and Freckles forge somewhat of a friendship. He has a deal for her – he’ll give her the interview on his terms. When he says “no” it’s no … and … she has to answer some of his questions. Desperate for that one big break, Aileen agrees. A day of questions for Killian and a day of questions for Freckles. Yea, Killian can’t get his mind off of her freckles so that’s her nick-name. But, will the freckles and the temptation to “connect-the-dots” be his downfall? When mother and son show up on his doorstep unexpectedly, he has no choice but to make those hard decisions.
So, Killian and Aileen were interesting. They were fun and loving, when they both finally opened up. I got the sense from the beginning that Killian did want everything out in the open and felt that his sense of protection wasn’t always for his son but of what people would think of him and his naivety when he was a rookie in the league. But, in the end, he won me over. He was sexy, really sexy and lost control more than once. When he finally revealed his secret, he did it with his whole heart. He finally trusted again and wasn’t disappointed at all. With the help of real friends, he was finally able to get Aileen back and build a life for both of them.
So, the Bobcats are fun, real men and I really enjoy reading about them. Jeanette Murray makes her books easy reads and mixes a little bit of intrigue with the love. In the end, she brings the story where you want it to go in a way that you enjoy yourself and the characters that she has written.
4 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I was thrilled to get back to the Santa Fe Bobcats …. Baseball season is over so …. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL! Sorry! I guess you have to be a football fan and watch a lot of it on TV. But, the Bobcats are fictional so I guess I’ll have to swoon over them instead of rooting for my favorite team … nope, not going there and making enemies! And, with all the controversy surrounding the NFL these days, it’s nice to see the good guys – even if they are in a book! So, back to Aileen and Killian …. the Kicker!
Normally, you would think the hot guys were the Quarterback (as we saw in One Night With a Quarterback), or the Wide-receiver. Who would have thought that the hot guy would be the Kicker, Killian Reeves. Quite, to-himself with his teammates and especially reporters, Killian has secrets that he does not want revealed. He’s not ashamed of his son, he’s just afraid of what will be said of who his parents are and the circumstances surrounding his birth. Until one female walks into his life and he is questioning everything surrounding his life. But, she’s a reporter – she cannot find out about his other life.
Aileen Rogers comes from a family of reporters. Her mother was a Journalist and her father a Photo Journalist. Both lived their lives to their fullest and wrote and photographed award-winning pieces. But, her place is in front of the camera, reporting on the news. All she needs is a break but working for an on-line sports blog isn’t going to get it for her. Or is it? Always given the “fluff” pieces, Aileen is told to get the dirt on Killian Reeves, get him to open up – get the elusive interview that no one can get. Easier said than done! He ignores her and turns her on and she has no time for men in her life. Plus, a reporter never lusts after her subject, never mind sleep with him.
Together, Killian and Freckles forge somewhat of a friendship. He has a deal for her – he’ll give her the interview on his terms. When he says “no” it’s no … and … she has to answer some of his questions. Desperate for that one big break, Aileen agrees. A day of questions for Killian and a day of questions for Freckles. Yea, Killian can’t get his mind off of her freckles so that’s her nick-name. But, will the freckles and the temptation to “connect-the-dots” be his downfall? When mother and son show up on his doorstep unexpectedly, he has no choice but to make those hard decisions.
So, Killian and Aileen were interesting. They were fun and loving, when they both finally opened up. I got the sense from the beginning that Killian did want everything out in the open and felt that his sense of protection wasn’t always for his son but of what people would think of him and his naivety when he was a rookie in the league. But, in the end, he won me over. He was sexy, really sexy and lost control more than once. When he finally revealed his secret, he did it with his whole heart. He finally trusted again and wasn’t disappointed at all. With the help of real friends, he was finally able to get Aileen back and build a life for both of them.
So, the Bobcats are fun, real men and I really enjoy reading about them. Jeanette Murray makes her books easy reads and mixes a little bit of intrigue with the love. In the end, she brings the story where you want it to go in a way that you enjoy yourself and the characters that she has written.
October 11, 2014
3.5 to 4 stars
Killian Reeves is the quiet kicker for the Sante Fe Bobcats. He's perceived as a loner, an a-hole, and does not really have friends on the team. He does not hang out with them or the groupies. He kind of lives in his own head and deals with his own hidden issues. He has secrets and keeps his personal life private for a reason.
Aileen Roger is a struggling reporter who needs a story and it needs to be something that no one else has exposed. So Killian is the perfect choice since no one knows much about what makes him tick. But she has her work cut out for her. She is funny, spunky, tenacious, and a bit mischievous. And she manages to surprise him, get under his skin and get a rise out of him.
Soon she finally convinces him to along with an interview, but he also wants something from her. A little give and a little take is all fine and good, but it is still confusing for both of them. Their rapport and chemistry deepen and Killian might actually (gasp) like hanging around with her. But he has something in his past he needs to protect so being involved with a reporter is dicey at best and could expose it all.
I enjoyed their rapport and liked them together. Their interactions were fun even when they were still in an awkward stage. I even liked them separately despite Killian's initial stand-offish behavior. I could see he had reasons and at the same time he also missed companionship. He did not truly want to be isolated, but had just ended up lost in self protection mode. And Aileen was a smart, supportive woman who really wanted to do the right thing but was also in kind of a desperate situation.
But with Killian it all comes down to trust, so if he is not willing to give it then there is not much hope for him to move forward. And if he truly cannot trust her and she finds the opportunity to expose him, then it could ruin everything he has tried to do. So they are both walking a fine line and it won't take much for one of them to cross it.
It was told in both points of view. It was funny, sexy, and sweet. I will admit that I felt this one was a little thin on plot and drama. Some of the basis of the story just seemed a bit odd like taking thirty days of daily interaction to do an interview. But it gave them a chance to develop. I did like the characters. There was a bit of intrigue about what he was hiding early on, some drama about their situation, and the twist was unique. But I did not find it quite as engaging, angsty, challenging, and dramatic as the first book One Night with a Quarterback.
I enjoyed the return of characters from the first book: Trey and Cassie who are still growing as a couple, and their team mates Josiah and Michael. But this can easily be read as a stand-alone. I like the team, their interactions, and their brotherly bond. I am still intrigued by the troubled Stephen and hope that we see more of him in the future. There were some quirky new characters as well adding support and humor to the mix. Overall, it was a cute, humorous love story with a journalism and football backdrop with likable characters that really needed each other but were not sure it could ever work.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Killian Reeves is the quiet kicker for the Sante Fe Bobcats. He's perceived as a loner, an a-hole, and does not really have friends on the team. He does not hang out with them or the groupies. He kind of lives in his own head and deals with his own hidden issues. He has secrets and keeps his personal life private for a reason.
Aileen Roger is a struggling reporter who needs a story and it needs to be something that no one else has exposed. So Killian is the perfect choice since no one knows much about what makes him tick. But she has her work cut out for her. She is funny, spunky, tenacious, and a bit mischievous. And she manages to surprise him, get under his skin and get a rise out of him.
Soon she finally convinces him to along with an interview, but he also wants something from her. A little give and a little take is all fine and good, but it is still confusing for both of them. Their rapport and chemistry deepen and Killian might actually (gasp) like hanging around with her. But he has something in his past he needs to protect so being involved with a reporter is dicey at best and could expose it all.
I enjoyed their rapport and liked them together. Their interactions were fun even when they were still in an awkward stage. I even liked them separately despite Killian's initial stand-offish behavior. I could see he had reasons and at the same time he also missed companionship. He did not truly want to be isolated, but had just ended up lost in self protection mode. And Aileen was a smart, supportive woman who really wanted to do the right thing but was also in kind of a desperate situation.
But with Killian it all comes down to trust, so if he is not willing to give it then there is not much hope for him to move forward. And if he truly cannot trust her and she finds the opportunity to expose him, then it could ruin everything he has tried to do. So they are both walking a fine line and it won't take much for one of them to cross it.
It was told in both points of view. It was funny, sexy, and sweet. I will admit that I felt this one was a little thin on plot and drama. Some of the basis of the story just seemed a bit odd like taking thirty days of daily interaction to do an interview. But it gave them a chance to develop. I did like the characters. There was a bit of intrigue about what he was hiding early on, some drama about their situation, and the twist was unique. But I did not find it quite as engaging, angsty, challenging, and dramatic as the first book One Night with a Quarterback.
I enjoyed the return of characters from the first book: Trey and Cassie who are still growing as a couple, and their team mates Josiah and Michael. But this can easily be read as a stand-alone. I like the team, their interactions, and their brotherly bond. I am still intrigued by the troubled Stephen and hope that we see more of him in the future. There were some quirky new characters as well adding support and humor to the mix. Overall, it was a cute, humorous love story with a journalism and football backdrop with likable characters that really needed each other but were not sure it could ever work.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2014
I loved everything about this book! It had everything that I love in romance stories it was hilarious, sexy and sweet all rolled up in one.
I have been a big fan of Ms. Murray since I read her Sempre Fi Series then I read the first book in the Santa Fe Bobcats Series and I’ve been hooked. I knew that it was going to take some time to really get to know Killian’s story but once it was told I couldn’t believe it. He was one of the characters that it wasn’t hard not to fall in love with. Then there is Freckles “Aileen” she was persistent about getting this interview that they struck a deal 30 days that is all she would get but that got cut in half because he was also going to interview her.
Aileen was a bright, intelligent young woman that knew what she wanted. She wanted to be a journalist but not one that would stalk the person she was writing her story on. I love how honest she was with Killian and that she put her boss in his place. At the end she was able to help a friend tell her story and that was the beginning of her journalism.
Then there is Killian he was a loner and I really didn’t understand why because he was part of a team. I would have thought he would go out with the other football players and hang out but he would find an excuse not to go. But then he met Freckles and it seemed that she was getting under his skin. So in order for her not to go digging into his life he told her he would give her 30 days but with the understanding that 15 of those days were his to follow her around.
Aileen and Killian were getting to know each other and they actually got along. With them getting along it seemed that he was now talking to the other players, could it be because of Aileen. As time passes they end up kissing because the feelings between them can’t be ignored any more but it comes with consequences. We have to remember that there is that secret that he doesn’t want for her or anyone to find out. He gets phone calls from his son’s mother and his child and he already has told his son that he couldn’t come to one of his away games because Aileen was going. I love that he wants to put his son before anything because if they find out what really happened it could because headline news.
Only that secrets always have a way of coming out and that’s exactly what happened with Killian’s secret. She had a decision to make because the moment that she saw the little boy she knew who the daddy was. Could she right the article or ruin a chance at having a career?
Loving Him Off the Field was a great read. It was engaging and had wonderful characters. I love that Trey and Cassie also made an appearance in this book. The friendships and loyalties were brilliant. I loved the banter between Aileen and Killian. Ms. Murray has out done herself in this story and I can’t wait to see what she has next in this story. I’m hoping that soon we get to read about Stephen and what he is going through.
I truly recommend this read to all readers.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
I have been a big fan of Ms. Murray since I read her Sempre Fi Series then I read the first book in the Santa Fe Bobcats Series and I’ve been hooked. I knew that it was going to take some time to really get to know Killian’s story but once it was told I couldn’t believe it. He was one of the characters that it wasn’t hard not to fall in love with. Then there is Freckles “Aileen” she was persistent about getting this interview that they struck a deal 30 days that is all she would get but that got cut in half because he was also going to interview her.
Aileen was a bright, intelligent young woman that knew what she wanted. She wanted to be a journalist but not one that would stalk the person she was writing her story on. I love how honest she was with Killian and that she put her boss in his place. At the end she was able to help a friend tell her story and that was the beginning of her journalism.
Then there is Killian he was a loner and I really didn’t understand why because he was part of a team. I would have thought he would go out with the other football players and hang out but he would find an excuse not to go. But then he met Freckles and it seemed that she was getting under his skin. So in order for her not to go digging into his life he told her he would give her 30 days but with the understanding that 15 of those days were his to follow her around.
Aileen and Killian were getting to know each other and they actually got along. With them getting along it seemed that he was now talking to the other players, could it be because of Aileen. As time passes they end up kissing because the feelings between them can’t be ignored any more but it comes with consequences. We have to remember that there is that secret that he doesn’t want for her or anyone to find out. He gets phone calls from his son’s mother and his child and he already has told his son that he couldn’t come to one of his away games because Aileen was going. I love that he wants to put his son before anything because if they find out what really happened it could because headline news.
Only that secrets always have a way of coming out and that’s exactly what happened with Killian’s secret. She had a decision to make because the moment that she saw the little boy she knew who the daddy was. Could she right the article or ruin a chance at having a career?
Loving Him Off the Field was a great read. It was engaging and had wonderful characters. I love that Trey and Cassie also made an appearance in this book. The friendships and loyalties were brilliant. I loved the banter between Aileen and Killian. Ms. Murray has out done herself in this story and I can’t wait to see what she has next in this story. I’m hoping that soon we get to read about Stephen and what he is going through.
I truly recommend this read to all readers.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
October 21, 2014
I discovered Jeanette Murray’s sports romances last month when I picked up One Night with a Quarterback. They feature smart and capable men and women with witty dialogue and enough details about sports to satisfy more than the casual fan. Loving Him Off the Field features the surly kicker of the Santa Fe Bobcats, Killian Reeves and intrepid reporter Aileen Rogers trying to work her way up to a prime gig in sports reporting.
Killian Reeves isn’t much of a team player despite being the kicker on the Bobcats. He never goes out with his teammates and he never uses his status as a player to hook up with women. When he’s confronted by Aileen for an interview, he doesn’t really know what to make of her. He rejects her request for an interview as a matter of course, but is befuddled when Aileen respects his boundaries and this, in turn, makes him even more leery.
The interaction between Killian and his teammates was one of the best parts of the book. Not only do they show support and help each other out, but the book strongly emphasizes the teamwork nature of what they do, and how they’re like a family. I hope more of the players get their own books in the future. Part of Killian’s reluctance to have the spotlight shine on him has to do with his young son. He keeps his son a secret and has tried his best for years to keep it from the media and when Aileen starts poking around him he says obnoxious things to her meant to deflect and hurt. The book also doesn’t paint his ex in a horrible light which I adored. Killian and his ex have some issues, but they don’t take it out through their son.. and he’s always their number one priority.
Aileen, for her part, has a streak of integrity a mile long. She acknowledges that people don’t always at professional within her profession and respects Killian’s wishes when it comes to his answers. She’s quietly stubborn and not flashy, and determined to make a go out of getting Killian to agree to an interview with her. When I wasn’t smiling at the dialogue, I was laughing.. the banter between the both of them is really cute and fun.
What I wasn’t really all that fond of is how long it took for Killian’s past to come to light. It kind of drags on, and though his reasons are valid, it just struck me as a way to draw out the conflict – and that came across as a little contrived.
On the whole however, I loved the characters, the slow building romance, and the author’s characterization of the football team (not very congruent with today’s NFL – but that’s a whole other discussion) and I would unreservedly recommend this book to people that love sports romance or contemporaries.
- Ronnie
Killian Reeves isn’t much of a team player despite being the kicker on the Bobcats. He never goes out with his teammates and he never uses his status as a player to hook up with women. When he’s confronted by Aileen for an interview, he doesn’t really know what to make of her. He rejects her request for an interview as a matter of course, but is befuddled when Aileen respects his boundaries and this, in turn, makes him even more leery.
The interaction between Killian and his teammates was one of the best parts of the book. Not only do they show support and help each other out, but the book strongly emphasizes the teamwork nature of what they do, and how they’re like a family. I hope more of the players get their own books in the future. Part of Killian’s reluctance to have the spotlight shine on him has to do with his young son. He keeps his son a secret and has tried his best for years to keep it from the media and when Aileen starts poking around him he says obnoxious things to her meant to deflect and hurt. The book also doesn’t paint his ex in a horrible light which I adored. Killian and his ex have some issues, but they don’t take it out through their son.. and he’s always their number one priority.
Aileen, for her part, has a streak of integrity a mile long. She acknowledges that people don’t always at professional within her profession and respects Killian’s wishes when it comes to his answers. She’s quietly stubborn and not flashy, and determined to make a go out of getting Killian to agree to an interview with her. When I wasn’t smiling at the dialogue, I was laughing.. the banter between the both of them is really cute and fun.
What I wasn’t really all that fond of is how long it took for Killian’s past to come to light. It kind of drags on, and though his reasons are valid, it just struck me as a way to draw out the conflict – and that came across as a little contrived.
On the whole however, I loved the characters, the slow building romance, and the author’s characterization of the football team (not very congruent with today’s NFL – but that’s a whole other discussion) and I would unreservedly recommend this book to people that love sports romance or contemporaries.
- Ronnie
October 20, 2014
Loving Him Off the Field, the second installment in Jeanette Murray's Santa Fe Bobcats series, is a very engaging love story between an up and coming journalist and a publicity shy pro football player. This wonderful novel features a slow-burning romance, a refreshing storyline and genuine, likable characters, and it is an positively delightful read.
Killian Reeves is quiet and unassuming, and he keeps his private and professional lives completely separate. Unlike the typical highly paid athlete, he does not have an over-inflated ego nor is he interested in groupies or the limelight. Instead, he leads a quiet, solitary life and although he likes his teammates, he keeps to himself. Much to Killian's surprise, he is intrigued by reporter Aileen Rogers, but he is dismayed when she begins to dig into his background in pursuit of a story.
Aileen is an excellent reporter but she is frustrated that her boss won't assign her to any stories except fluffy human interest pieces. She is thrilled to finally get a serious assignment, but she soon discovers that getting Killian to consent to an interview is next to impossible. Aileen's tenacity quickly pays off and he agrees to co-operate with her, but their professional relationship is soon complicated by their unexpected attraction to one another.
Killian and Aileen are both wonderfully developed protagonists and neither of them are the stereotypical characters. Killian is not the typical jock with an over-inflated ego. Instead he is very humble and down to earth. Aileen has integrity and she does not use sleazy tactics to get ahead. She is upfront and honest and she is always respectful of everyone's right to privacy.
The sparks fly between Killian and Aileen right from their very first meeting but neither of them is looking for a relationship. They try to ignore their attraction, but once Killian kisses Aileen senseless, it is difficult for them to maintain a professional distance. They give in to their passion, but he has a few skeletons in his closet that he does not want her to uncover. When Aileen does finally learn Killian's secrets, will their relationship survive Killian's lack of trust?
Loving Him Off the Field is a steamy, sweet and humorous romance between two delightfully charming characters and I absolutely loved watching them fall in love. The plot is well-executed and the characters are easy to like. It is a fun, flirty and sexy addition to Jeanette Murray's Santa Fe Bobcats series that old and new fans are sure to enjoy.
Killian Reeves is quiet and unassuming, and he keeps his private and professional lives completely separate. Unlike the typical highly paid athlete, he does not have an over-inflated ego nor is he interested in groupies or the limelight. Instead, he leads a quiet, solitary life and although he likes his teammates, he keeps to himself. Much to Killian's surprise, he is intrigued by reporter Aileen Rogers, but he is dismayed when she begins to dig into his background in pursuit of a story.
Aileen is an excellent reporter but she is frustrated that her boss won't assign her to any stories except fluffy human interest pieces. She is thrilled to finally get a serious assignment, but she soon discovers that getting Killian to consent to an interview is next to impossible. Aileen's tenacity quickly pays off and he agrees to co-operate with her, but their professional relationship is soon complicated by their unexpected attraction to one another.
Killian and Aileen are both wonderfully developed protagonists and neither of them are the stereotypical characters. Killian is not the typical jock with an over-inflated ego. Instead he is very humble and down to earth. Aileen has integrity and she does not use sleazy tactics to get ahead. She is upfront and honest and she is always respectful of everyone's right to privacy.
The sparks fly between Killian and Aileen right from their very first meeting but neither of them is looking for a relationship. They try to ignore their attraction, but once Killian kisses Aileen senseless, it is difficult for them to maintain a professional distance. They give in to their passion, but he has a few skeletons in his closet that he does not want her to uncover. When Aileen does finally learn Killian's secrets, will their relationship survive Killian's lack of trust?
Loving Him Off the Field is a steamy, sweet and humorous romance between two delightfully charming characters and I absolutely loved watching them fall in love. The plot is well-executed and the characters are easy to like. It is a fun, flirty and sexy addition to Jeanette Murray's Santa Fe Bobcats series that old and new fans are sure to enjoy.
May 5, 2015
Original post: 5/5/15 http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
Would love your comments there please :-)
THE POWER OF THE PRESS
The obnoxious power of the press, after a “friend” nearly ruined your career, and love for a child sounds like something right out of the news, right?
And, there’s no reason you wouldn’t want to tar all reporters with the same brush, except maybe when you fall in love with one and admire her integrity.
And when you realize your also cheating your kid.
The problem I had here was that I get parents protecting a child, but we don’t get the whole why for the complete secrecy in regards to Killian’s son until the end of the book. So for most of the book I thought he was just kind of an asshat to this perfectly nice woman he’s happy to have sex with, whose company he enjoys, whose career he’s blindly manipulating. Because her integrity is OBVIOUS. He’s also a little ashamed of what he does for the team, although as the field goal place kicker, his foot can be the difference between win or lose
The chemistry between them is not obvious at first. But it’s great once they get going and neither of them have body shame or sex hang ups. But, I think it’s not human to have a lot of sex with one person and not get involved.
And that’s where the real tension comes up for Killian, and when the skata hits the fan for Aileen. Have you ever noticed these crises always happen all at once in short romance novels?
Anyway, not understanding the motivation in this series until the end made me less than sympathetic with Killian, but the relationship gets hot. I kind of wanted her to stop being with this guy who was sleeping with her and nice one minute and then a dick to her the next. Especially when he’s trying to keep her from getting the whole story, have sex with her and then badger her with questions so she can understand what it is like to be him. He treats her and her job with disdain and I felt like she should have more self-respect than that.
His conflict starts to come when he sees her as human and not a separate species of homo reporterus. And when his secret won’t stay hidden.
Like the song goes, you don’t know what you’ve got til it’s gone.
Would love your comments there please :-)
THE POWER OF THE PRESS
The obnoxious power of the press, after a “friend” nearly ruined your career, and love for a child sounds like something right out of the news, right?
And, there’s no reason you wouldn’t want to tar all reporters with the same brush, except maybe when you fall in love with one and admire her integrity.
And when you realize your also cheating your kid.
The problem I had here was that I get parents protecting a child, but we don’t get the whole why for the complete secrecy in regards to Killian’s son until the end of the book. So for most of the book I thought he was just kind of an asshat to this perfectly nice woman he’s happy to have sex with, whose company he enjoys, whose career he’s blindly manipulating. Because her integrity is OBVIOUS. He’s also a little ashamed of what he does for the team, although as the field goal place kicker, his foot can be the difference between win or lose
The chemistry between them is not obvious at first. But it’s great once they get going and neither of them have body shame or sex hang ups. But, I think it’s not human to have a lot of sex with one person and not get involved.
And that’s where the real tension comes up for Killian, and when the skata hits the fan for Aileen. Have you ever noticed these crises always happen all at once in short romance novels?
Anyway, not understanding the motivation in this series until the end made me less than sympathetic with Killian, but the relationship gets hot. I kind of wanted her to stop being with this guy who was sleeping with her and nice one minute and then a dick to her the next. Especially when he’s trying to keep her from getting the whole story, have sex with her and then badger her with questions so she can understand what it is like to be him. He treats her and her job with disdain and I felt like she should have more self-respect than that.
His conflict starts to come when he sees her as human and not a separate species of homo reporterus. And when his secret won’t stay hidden.
Like the song goes, you don’t know what you’ve got til it’s gone.
October 16, 2014
*** Provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
Hot factor: 3.75
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In Summary:
Santa Fe Bobcats kicker, Killian Reeves, does not allow groupie interaction. Not anymore, never again. He does not like reporters. He's a man of few words and throws off a "personal bubble" vibe that even teammates can't ignore. Most of the other players have even given up trying to include him altogether. But he has his reasons for staying so isolated from the pack. He has a secret that he does not want found out.
Aileen Rogers is trying to make a name for herself as a legit sports reporter, but it's hard to do when her boss gives her fluff stories like "Groupies: Getting Between the Sheets" and "Tattoos: Spousal Support Ink" to cover. She needs an interview with the elusive Killian Reeves to even be considered worthy as a real reporter by her boss and colleagues.
My Thoughts:
The first few chapters in this story will overlap the part of the first book's story line, thus I would suggest reading book one prior to this. Plus, it jumps right in, expecting you to know who the characters are and the dynamics between them.
After so many declined offers to hang with teammates, Killian no longer is approached by or invited to hang with the others. It lends him the image of being a loner, recluse, introvert... Secondary characters include some of the characters we met in ONE NIGHT WITH A QUARTERBACK as well as some new characters from Killian and Aileen's lives. The characters were extremely enjoyable and their interactions were fun to read through. The plot flowed very smoothly, with enough dynamics to keep you glued to the pages. There were a few true laugh-out-loud moments. There was a minor conflict that was resolved quickly and maturely. Very little predictability. A sweet ending. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
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Overall Rating: 4.5
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