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More Than A Game #3
Making a Comeback
With a divorce in the works, Annabelle Jones heads out to Southern California, the land of sun and starting over. She wants to prove to herself and her young daughters that she still has what it takes to turn heads as a swimsuit model—that she doesn’t need a man to take care of her. Until an accident forces her to rely on the hunky, yet mysterious man next door...Nathan Cooper is trying to revive his own career. Once a top left-handed relief pitcher, he tried to get over a hidden injury with the aid of banned substances. Not only was he caught and suspended, he was traded and missed out on winning the championship. Now he’s a free agent without a contract, and that means life is ready to play ball…
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 7, 2015
18 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
Kristina Mathews
7 books345 followersKristina Mathews doesn't remember a time when she didn't have a book in her hand. Or in her head. But it wasn't until she turned forty that she confessed the reason the laundry never made it out of the dryer was because she was busy writing.
While she resigned from teaching with the arrival of her second son, she's remained an educator in some form. As a volunteer, parent club member or para educator, she finds the most satisfaction working with emergent and developing readers, helping foster confidence and a lifelong love of books.
Kristina lives in Northern California with her husband of more than twenty years, two sons and a black lab. A veteran road tripper, amateur renovator and sports fanatic. She hopes to one day travel all 3,073 miles of Highway 50 from Sacramento, CA to Ocean City, MD, replace her carpet with hardwood floors and serve as a “Ball Dudette” for the San Francisco Giants.
While she resigned from teaching with the arrival of her second son, she's remained an educator in some form. As a volunteer, parent club member or para educator, she finds the most satisfaction working with emergent and developing readers, helping foster confidence and a lifelong love of books.
Kristina lives in Northern California with her husband of more than twenty years, two sons and a black lab. A veteran road tripper, amateur renovator and sports fanatic. She hopes to one day travel all 3,073 miles of Highway 50 from Sacramento, CA to Ocean City, MD, replace her carpet with hardwood floors and serve as a “Ball Dudette” for the San Francisco Giants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
August 30, 2021
Nate, a MLB relief pitcher took steroids for pain w/o telling
the team trainer or MD. He was suspended 50 games, then
traded, then played 2 games for new team. He felt guilty for
his dishonesty (steroids) & letting down his team.
One year later, Nate wanted nothing to do w/ MLB, women
or alcohol. But he really wanted to pitch again? 10 yrs ago
at 19 Annabelle was in 2 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues
& called herself a 'supermodel.' Who called her that? Only
she? She had a relatively short modeling career. Anyhow,
nearly divorced Anna had cute 6 yr old twin girls.
Nate the neighbor saw the twins at the bus stop, learned
Anna went to the ER, then took the twins there. She had
an auto injury IE concussion and face injury. Anna knew
few people as they recently moved to a new city by the
ocean. Nate moved in a few days to care for mom & kids.
He could have had a police record or been a grifter, but
sure, move in a few days. He admitted he considered her
his fantasy woman: why tell her that? He complimented
her beauty as if a broken record. Cool it buddy: she was
recovering from a traumatic injury & had STM loss.
These 2 showed indecisive ways: 1) would Nate play pro
baseball again? in Canada? Japan? US? 2) Anna gave the
hero mixed messages on their relationship IE on/off/
on/ friends only/ lovers. He should have been angry at
her moody treatment. At times these 2 did not act like
real people.
the team trainer or MD. He was suspended 50 games, then
traded, then played 2 games for new team. He felt guilty for
his dishonesty (steroids) & letting down his team.
One year later, Nate wanted nothing to do w/ MLB, women
or alcohol. But he really wanted to pitch again? 10 yrs ago
at 19 Annabelle was in 2 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues
& called herself a 'supermodel.' Who called her that? Only
she? She had a relatively short modeling career. Anyhow,
nearly divorced Anna had cute 6 yr old twin girls.
Nate the neighbor saw the twins at the bus stop, learned
Anna went to the ER, then took the twins there. She had
an auto injury IE concussion and face injury. Anna knew
few people as they recently moved to a new city by the
ocean. Nate moved in a few days to care for mom & kids.
He could have had a police record or been a grifter, but
sure, move in a few days. He admitted he considered her
his fantasy woman: why tell her that? He complimented
her beauty as if a broken record. Cool it buddy: she was
recovering from a traumatic injury & had STM loss.
These 2 showed indecisive ways: 1) would Nate play pro
baseball again? in Canada? Japan? US? 2) Anna gave the
hero mixed messages on their relationship IE on/off/
on/ friends only/ lovers. He should have been angry at
her moody treatment. At times these 2 did not act like
real people.
August 7, 2015
This is a good romance about second chances. For more of my review. check out my blog and have a look. http://goo.gl/1EXnOF
Review copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Review copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
December 18, 2016
Rating: 3.5/5
Review to come!
Review to come!
April 12, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
Kristina Mathews is a new to me author, but one look at the cover and the blurb for Making A Comeback had me interested in reading this one. This book is the third book in Kristina's More Than A Game Series, with each book being an interconnected standalone. You do not need to read these in order, and I had no problems diving right into this one. I will say that after reading Cooper and Annabelle's story though that I want to go back and read the others since I enjoyed this one so much.
Annabelle Jones is moving forward with her life. After years of living with her husband though not being happy, she has finally started the divorce process and is trying to get her modeling career back in order to provide for her two young twin daughters. But when an accident forces her to rely on her handsome neighbor, the future she was planning suddenly begins to look a lot different. Nathan Cooper is paying for a mistake he made while trying to revive his own career as a profession relief pitcher. He knows that he needs to focus on getting back in the game, but he can't stop himself from helping out Annabelle and her daughters. As much as these two try to stay away from each other thinking that it is best to keep one another at arm's length, they find themselves wanting a life together that they never expected.
I really liked Cooper and Annabelle. I will admit that these two both frustrated me at times, but I did understand why the did some of the things that annoyed me. They were both focused on getting their careers back and thought that they couldn't have a relationship as well as their careers, but yet they were better when they were together than apart. I loved Annabelle's little girls, and I thought that they were so cute. They immediately took to Cooper, and I loved seeing him with them. He was so sweet and kind, and I love how natural he was with them. These four were so good together that it was really hard to believe that they hadn't been a family all along! I loved Cooper and Annabelle as a couple, and they had a clear connection and great chemistry. But it really was the four of them that made this book so special.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I liked all the characters. I loved Cooper and Annabelle, and I enjoyed seeing them interact with Annabelle's friends from the previous book. I am curious to go back and read their story and see how everything happened that led up to this story and Cooper's being traded. If you are a fan of contemporary or sports romance stories, I would recommend giving this one a shot. I enjoyed Kristina's writing style and I felt invested in these characters right away. I will definitely look for more stories from her in the future.
**ARC Provided by Tasty Book Tours**
Kristina Mathews is a new to me author, but one look at the cover and the blurb for Making A Comeback had me interested in reading this one. This book is the third book in Kristina's More Than A Game Series, with each book being an interconnected standalone. You do not need to read these in order, and I had no problems diving right into this one. I will say that after reading Cooper and Annabelle's story though that I want to go back and read the others since I enjoyed this one so much.
Annabelle Jones is moving forward with her life. After years of living with her husband though not being happy, she has finally started the divorce process and is trying to get her modeling career back in order to provide for her two young twin daughters. But when an accident forces her to rely on her handsome neighbor, the future she was planning suddenly begins to look a lot different. Nathan Cooper is paying for a mistake he made while trying to revive his own career as a profession relief pitcher. He knows that he needs to focus on getting back in the game, but he can't stop himself from helping out Annabelle and her daughters. As much as these two try to stay away from each other thinking that it is best to keep one another at arm's length, they find themselves wanting a life together that they never expected.
I really liked Cooper and Annabelle. I will admit that these two both frustrated me at times, but I did understand why the did some of the things that annoyed me. They were both focused on getting their careers back and thought that they couldn't have a relationship as well as their careers, but yet they were better when they were together than apart. I loved Annabelle's little girls, and I thought that they were so cute. They immediately took to Cooper, and I loved seeing him with them. He was so sweet and kind, and I love how natural he was with them. These four were so good together that it was really hard to believe that they hadn't been a family all along! I loved Cooper and Annabelle as a couple, and they had a clear connection and great chemistry. But it really was the four of them that made this book so special.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I liked all the characters. I loved Cooper and Annabelle, and I enjoyed seeing them interact with Annabelle's friends from the previous book. I am curious to go back and read their story and see how everything happened that led up to this story and Cooper's being traded. If you are a fan of contemporary or sports romance stories, I would recommend giving this one a shot. I enjoyed Kristina's writing style and I felt invested in these characters right away. I will definitely look for more stories from her in the future.
**ARC Provided by Tasty Book Tours**
July 10, 2015
My Review:
Overall this was an entertaining read that kept me engrossed in the story.
Both Cooper and Annabelle are trying to make a comeback with their lives. For Cooper, that means recovering from surgery and the biggest mistake he ever made. For Annabelle, she's trying to resurrect her super-model career after taking a few years off to raise her twin daughters. She's also in the middle of a divorce. A divorce that's entangled a bit in Cooper's mess too.
They're next door neighbors...in really tight quarters although it sounded like they lived in houses. But when they go out on their porch at night, they're basically with the next door neighbor if they also happen to be out on their porch.
Their were several aspects of Cooper's character that I really liked. I love that he has a passion for music...he's not just a jock. He's a talented musician too. I also love that he has a poster of Annabelle's swimsuit cover. Yeah, he's been in love with the fantasy of her for over 10 years. That was actually kind of sweet, although I think if I were her, I might be a little creeped out. But that just goes to show you what a down-to-earth attitude she has toward that fame...she just laughs it off.
This is a book about two very famous people trying to find their way when their way of life is gone. The twins added a great aspect to the story as only two precocious six year olds can do.
There were a few moments when I rolled my eyes at a bit of the dialogue and I think things with Annabelle's original injury should have been played up more at the beginning, because it honestly didn't seem like that big of a thing when it happened...not like it did by the end of the story. I think there should have been a bit more drama added into all that story line initially so that it was a BIG thing in the story...not just a minor injury, concussion, and stitches which is how it was portrayed in the story.
It was a light, entertaining read. I haven't read any of this series before although I'm pretty sure that I have the book right before this one (#2) in my print TBR. Those two characters played a part in this book, so I'm anxious to go back and read their story, now.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Overall this was an entertaining read that kept me engrossed in the story.
Both Cooper and Annabelle are trying to make a comeback with their lives. For Cooper, that means recovering from surgery and the biggest mistake he ever made. For Annabelle, she's trying to resurrect her super-model career after taking a few years off to raise her twin daughters. She's also in the middle of a divorce. A divorce that's entangled a bit in Cooper's mess too.
They're next door neighbors...in really tight quarters although it sounded like they lived in houses. But when they go out on their porch at night, they're basically with the next door neighbor if they also happen to be out on their porch.
Their were several aspects of Cooper's character that I really liked. I love that he has a passion for music...he's not just a jock. He's a talented musician too. I also love that he has a poster of Annabelle's swimsuit cover. Yeah, he's been in love with the fantasy of her for over 10 years. That was actually kind of sweet, although I think if I were her, I might be a little creeped out. But that just goes to show you what a down-to-earth attitude she has toward that fame...she just laughs it off.
This is a book about two very famous people trying to find their way when their way of life is gone. The twins added a great aspect to the story as only two precocious six year olds can do.
There were a few moments when I rolled my eyes at a bit of the dialogue and I think things with Annabelle's original injury should have been played up more at the beginning, because it honestly didn't seem like that big of a thing when it happened...not like it did by the end of the story. I think there should have been a bit more drama added into all that story line initially so that it was a BIG thing in the story...not just a minor injury, concussion, and stitches which is how it was portrayed in the story.
It was a light, entertaining read. I haven't read any of this series before although I'm pretty sure that I have the book right before this one (#2) in my print TBR. Those two characters played a part in this book, so I'm anxious to go back and read their story, now.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
May 6, 2015
I read the first 2 books in this series and I was hoping they would get better over time and they are definitely showing more promise.
I liked Annabelle and how strong she was. After having a serious accident she is looking forward to moving on with her life from modeling and divorce to raise and show her twins they can do whatever they put their minds to. When Nathan helps her out not only with her on the mend but with confidence she can take on whatever she puts her mind to.
Nathan made a mistake in the majors but ever since meeting Annabelle and her wonderful little girls he realizes he wants to be a better man not only for himself but for the 3 special women in his life. I liked that he stopped feeling sorry for himself and got back into the swing of things and got back on track.
Nathan was such a sweetheart not only to her daughters but Annabelle. I loved how he just took to the 2 little girls and how they took to him right away. It was super sweet. You can see the connection when she first gets out of the hospital and how much they become to need each other to get over the past and make a future together. The relationship wasn't rushed and they both took the time to get to know each other and spend time with one another.
I loved that they didn't rush to have a baby or get engaged by the end of the story. By the end they were still working out just the basic parts of a brand new relationship which was like a breath of fresh air. I am excited to see who will be next in the next story if their is a next in this series.
I liked Annabelle and how strong she was. After having a serious accident she is looking forward to moving on with her life from modeling and divorce to raise and show her twins they can do whatever they put their minds to. When Nathan helps her out not only with her on the mend but with confidence she can take on whatever she puts her mind to.
Nathan made a mistake in the majors but ever since meeting Annabelle and her wonderful little girls he realizes he wants to be a better man not only for himself but for the 3 special women in his life. I liked that he stopped feeling sorry for himself and got back into the swing of things and got back on track.
Nathan was such a sweetheart not only to her daughters but Annabelle. I loved how he just took to the 2 little girls and how they took to him right away. It was super sweet. You can see the connection when she first gets out of the hospital and how much they become to need each other to get over the past and make a future together. The relationship wasn't rushed and they both took the time to get to know each other and spend time with one another.
I loved that they didn't rush to have a baby or get engaged by the end of the story. By the end they were still working out just the basic parts of a brand new relationship which was like a breath of fresh air. I am excited to see who will be next in the next story if their is a next in this series.
July 9, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
I read this as a stand alone, with no prior information needed.
Ms. Mathews combines two of my favorite things - baseball and romance - and she did it very well. I made the mistake of picking this one up when I was getting into bed. Big big mistake, I stayed up reading most of the night, almost finishing it, when I had to get to sleep for work. I couldn't put it down. The story is easy to fall into. The baseball was written intelligently, nothing worse than picking up sports related romance and having mentions to the said sport be incorrect.
The only negative was the mentions to the magazines seemed to be a little creepy, a little obsessive, but something that can be overlooked in the over all story line. The overall message that Annabelle had was heartfelt and touching. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I read this as a stand alone, with no prior information needed.
Ms. Mathews combines two of my favorite things - baseball and romance - and she did it very well. I made the mistake of picking this one up when I was getting into bed. Big big mistake, I stayed up reading most of the night, almost finishing it, when I had to get to sleep for work. I couldn't put it down. The story is easy to fall into. The baseball was written intelligently, nothing worse than picking up sports related romance and having mentions to the said sport be incorrect.
The only negative was the mentions to the magazines seemed to be a little creepy, a little obsessive, but something that can be overlooked in the over all story line. The overall message that Annabelle had was heartfelt and touching. I look forward to reading more from this author.
July 11, 2015
4 stars
I really enjoyed Making a Comeback.
Loved the storyline and characters, once I started reading I couldn't put it down.
Making a Comeback is the third book from the More Than A Game series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1240... and is an excellent addition to the series. All books can be read as a standalone.
I really connected with Annabelle's character, I loved her strength and how courageous she was after her car accident.
Nathan was the perfect wounded hero overcoming his past to build a new future. Both characters were likable and very relatable.
Another plus for me was how Annabelle's little twin girls interacted with Nathan, they were cute, lovable and added humor to the storyline.
Overall this was a very good story that will leave you with a heart full of love.
Thank you Kensington Books, Lyrical Press via Netgalley for the advance copy.
I really enjoyed Making a Comeback.
Loved the storyline and characters, once I started reading I couldn't put it down.
Making a Comeback is the third book from the More Than A Game series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1240... and is an excellent addition to the series. All books can be read as a standalone.
I really connected with Annabelle's character, I loved her strength and how courageous she was after her car accident.
Nathan was the perfect wounded hero overcoming his past to build a new future. Both characters were likable and very relatable.
Another plus for me was how Annabelle's little twin girls interacted with Nathan, they were cute, lovable and added humor to the storyline.
Overall this was a very good story that will leave you with a heart full of love.
Thank you Kensington Books, Lyrical Press via Netgalley for the advance copy.
July 9, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
The third in a series, this can still be read as a standalone and enjoyed. It is clear that references are made to events in previous stories, and I am definitely adding them to my TBR.
I am a big fan of sports romances, and this one is no exception. It takes a different look at the sport and the impact of injury on a player - and it mirrors it very effectively with Annabelle's injury and her potential comeback. The twins were a breath of fresh air and the romance was sweet, and heated at the same time.
Very enjoyable read, with just the right level of fantasy, fun and hesitation.Perfect escapism.
The third in a series, this can still be read as a standalone and enjoyed. It is clear that references are made to events in previous stories, and I am definitely adding them to my TBR.
I am a big fan of sports romances, and this one is no exception. It takes a different look at the sport and the impact of injury on a player - and it mirrors it very effectively with Annabelle's injury and her potential comeback. The twins were a breath of fresh air and the romance was sweet, and heated at the same time.
Very enjoyable read, with just the right level of fantasy, fun and hesitation.Perfect escapism.
September 5, 2015
Copy received through Netgalley.
This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. We have two people who have made mistakes in their pasts. Annabelle is an ex model who is trying to get back into her career. She suffers a career ending injury. She has to find a way to be independent. She wants to do things for her and her twins on her own. Cooper is a MLB pitcher. After suffering a injury, he makes a decision that could end his career. He is ashamed and feels unworthy of anyone. Annabelle has been his dream for over 10 years. When she needs help he steps up to help her and the twins. This book was at time fun and at times emotional. The twins were great! This was a great addition to the series!
This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. We have two people who have made mistakes in their pasts. Annabelle is an ex model who is trying to get back into her career. She suffers a career ending injury. She has to find a way to be independent. She wants to do things for her and her twins on her own. Cooper is a MLB pitcher. After suffering a injury, he makes a decision that could end his career. He is ashamed and feels unworthy of anyone. Annabelle has been his dream for over 10 years. When she needs help he steps up to help her and the twins. This book was at time fun and at times emotional. The twins were great! This was a great addition to the series!
January 16, 2016
I enjoy sports romance, and I'm surprised I've never read any of Ms. Mathews books before. I really enjoyed Making a Comeback and I intend to catch up and read the previous books from the series that I've missed, all though they all are stand alone reads.
This one is really a heart warming story, with realistic issues that are a problem in are modern society. The couple have different issues to deal with but find each other and end up helping to work through their problems together. The addition of Sophie and Olivia the heroines twins, were great characters and a nice touch to the story.
This one is really a heart warming story, with realistic issues that are a problem in are modern society. The couple have different issues to deal with but find each other and end up helping to work through their problems together. The addition of Sophie and Olivia the heroines twins, were great characters and a nice touch to the story.
June 2, 2015
Here I go again jumping into a series, but in all fairness this time I tried to read the first one and I just couldn't get into it, but im glad I gave this series another shot. This book was a quick fun read that id definitely recommend. The characters werr fun and entertaining and the banter was good and even the supporting characters added to the story. Definitely recommend as a fun summer read.
March 4, 2019
Questo è il primo libro che leggo di questa autrice e mi è piaciuto molto, soprattutto lo stile di scrittura e la storia.
Annabelle Jones è in fase di divorzio da un uomo che la vede più come un trofeo che come una donna. Decide di trasferirsi in un posto nuovo con le sue due figlie gemelle, Sophie e Olivia, per ricominciare da capo. Vuole ritornare a fare il suo lavoro di modella per costumi da bagno, ma un incidente stradale spazzerà via il suo sogno, il suo futuro e quello che lei crede essere la cosa più importante: la bellezza.
“Ma aveva imparato tempo fa che avere un bel corpo non garantiva la felicità.”
Nathan Cooper è il suo vicino di casa, un giocatore di baseball e per le figlie di Annabelle lui è il Principe Azzurro. Ed è anche l’unica persona che può aiutare Annabelle, ma non vuole lasciarsi coinvolgere sentimentalmente. Lei è il suo sogno proibito, la modella in costume da bagno per Sport Illustrator che ha sognato per anni. Nathan però nasconde un segreto che ha rovinato la sua vita e la sua carriera sportiva. Prendere steroidi è stata una cattiva scelta, qualcosa per cui vergognarsi e rimpiangere per tutta la vita.
“Mi sono trovato in una situazione in cui pensavo che se tenevo duro e non ammettevo la mia debolezza, avrei potuto superare tutto.” – Nathan
La storia ha un significato più profondo. Non è solo una storia d’amore, una fiaba, ma parla di come le azioni e le scelte possono impattare sulla vita di qualcuno, qualche volta in modo molto negativo. Parla di come trovare la forza per ritornare a vivere, fidarsi delle persone e di se stessi. Gli errori possono non essere dimenticati, ma imparare da essi è la miglior redenzione.
“Tutti noi commettiamo degli errori.” Si lasciò cadere sul materasso. “Ma penso che i nostri rimpianti più grandi siano per le cose che non facciamo.” – Annabelle
Annabelle mi è piaciuta per l’amore che ha per le sue figlie. È intelligente, sexy, forte, con quel pizzico di insicurezza che la rende dolce e bellissima.
Nathan è testardo, ma è un Principe Azzurro amoroso, onesto, leale e affascinante. Dal suo errore ne ha tratto un insegnamento.
Mi sono completamente innamorata di Sophie e Olivia. Sono sorelle gemelle eppure sono diverse. Sono simpatiche e molto intelligenti. Ho amato la loro innocenza e il modo in cui vedono l’amore: la loro mamma è la Principessa e Nathan è il Principe Azzurro.
Questo libro è toccante con problematiche della vita reale. Scritto molto bene, la storia scorre fluida fino alla fine del libro.
So che questo è il terzo libro di una serie. Non so cosa succede in quelli precedenti, ma in questo non ho mai avuto la sensazione che mancasse qualcosa. Senza dubbio leggerò anche i primi due.
.
Jewel69- per RFS
July 7, 2015
As a fan of sports-themed romances I was immediately drawn to the premise of this story that's part of the More Than a Game series but can definitely be read on its own. Though there's familiarity in the action it's the characters that sets this book apart from the crowded genre as each of the main characters is immensely likable and endearingly flawed. From start to finish Ms. Mathews has crafted a tale that's sweet yet sensual with no real angst but deep emotional growth that fully immerses readers in their journey to HEA.
At one time Annabelle Jones was the fantasy of every guy, her face gracing the pages of magazines and walls until she left the business to get married and have beautiful twin girls. Becoming divorced and moving across the country has her starting over until a car accident derails her plans. With no one to count on to help her recover she's forced into accepting the help of her sexy neighbor who she's been attracted to since he moved in. The more time they spend together the more they come to count on one another for the emotional support that's always been missing from their lives to make a future together. Though Annabelle was a model she didn't have superficial trappings, others may have placed value on her looks but she did not. She was a strong-willed woman who didn't live to ask for help who only wanted to be a positive role model for her daughters. Despite all the times she was knocked down she always got right back up, never wallowing in pity.
Nathan Cooper's entire life has been devoted to baseball until an injury and a poor choice leaves his career hanging in the balance. Guilt and shame are his only companion now as is disappointment in himself for the fans who once called him hero. Though he's recovered from his injury he's still paralyzed by all these feelings weighing on him with the only bright spot being his fantasy girl living next door. Though he doesn't feel worthy of her and doesn't want the truth about himself to come out to her, he can't help coming to her aid when she needs it most. Seeing himself through her eyes, and that of her daughters, gives him a feeling of worth beyond just baseball. Cooper's a delicious hero who knows he did wrong and truly wants to make amends. Though he's attracted to Anabelle he doesn't want to bring any negativity to her life as she's rebuilding hers, but when she needs his help he steps up to the plate in heroic fashion. He shows himself to be a loyal and loving man with more to offer than just his talent to play baseball and his charming interactions with Annabelle's daughters endeared him to me.
This was a sweet and sensual story with a lot of heart. The friends to lovers relationship progressed a bit slowly but Cooper and Annabelle's interactions charmed me as it felt like two teens experiencing love for the first time. Though I prefer a bit more steam when it comes to the sexual interludes I still found these moments satisfying. Along with the wonderful main couple came the equally delightful Olivia and Sophie, Annabelle's twins. I don't normally like children in books but they were entertaining with antics that put a smile on my face. They also brought out an unexpected paternal side to Cooper that made me like him even more. From start to finish this was a satisfying read that gave me lots of warm fuzzies while reading it and I recommend it to all lovers of romance.
At one time Annabelle Jones was the fantasy of every guy, her face gracing the pages of magazines and walls until she left the business to get married and have beautiful twin girls. Becoming divorced and moving across the country has her starting over until a car accident derails her plans. With no one to count on to help her recover she's forced into accepting the help of her sexy neighbor who she's been attracted to since he moved in. The more time they spend together the more they come to count on one another for the emotional support that's always been missing from their lives to make a future together. Though Annabelle was a model she didn't have superficial trappings, others may have placed value on her looks but she did not. She was a strong-willed woman who didn't live to ask for help who only wanted to be a positive role model for her daughters. Despite all the times she was knocked down she always got right back up, never wallowing in pity.
Nathan Cooper's entire life has been devoted to baseball until an injury and a poor choice leaves his career hanging in the balance. Guilt and shame are his only companion now as is disappointment in himself for the fans who once called him hero. Though he's recovered from his injury he's still paralyzed by all these feelings weighing on him with the only bright spot being his fantasy girl living next door. Though he doesn't feel worthy of her and doesn't want the truth about himself to come out to her, he can't help coming to her aid when she needs it most. Seeing himself through her eyes, and that of her daughters, gives him a feeling of worth beyond just baseball. Cooper's a delicious hero who knows he did wrong and truly wants to make amends. Though he's attracted to Anabelle he doesn't want to bring any negativity to her life as she's rebuilding hers, but when she needs his help he steps up to the plate in heroic fashion. He shows himself to be a loyal and loving man with more to offer than just his talent to play baseball and his charming interactions with Annabelle's daughters endeared him to me.
This was a sweet and sensual story with a lot of heart. The friends to lovers relationship progressed a bit slowly but Cooper and Annabelle's interactions charmed me as it felt like two teens experiencing love for the first time. Though I prefer a bit more steam when it comes to the sexual interludes I still found these moments satisfying. Along with the wonderful main couple came the equally delightful Olivia and Sophie, Annabelle's twins. I don't normally like children in books but they were entertaining with antics that put a smile on my face. They also brought out an unexpected paternal side to Cooper that made me like him even more. From start to finish this was a satisfying read that gave me lots of warm fuzzies while reading it and I recommend it to all lovers of romance.
July 23, 2015
Annabelle Jones is feeling confident in her new life. Her girls are taken care of and have adjusted to a new place and she's gone back to modeling after years away from the business. She's excited her new life is working out and can't wait to see what life has in store for her next. And then she get into an accident--one that can end her career and her life forever.
Nathan Cooper is trying to put his life back on track. Unable to play the game he loves after being suspended for steroid use, Nathan goes about his day working out, keeping to himself and thinking of what to do next. He still doesn't have a set plan for his next move. He's trying his best to move forward, but regret and insecurity are waging a war against him.
Nathan and Annabelle are neighbors and although Annabelle has starred in some of Nathan's fantasies throughout the years, their relationship is no more than passing acquaintances. That is, until Annabelle accident leaves her in need of help. Soon Nathan finds himself immerse in a life he never planned for himself and falling in love with his fantasy girl.
What drew me into the story was the fact that Annabelle was a divorced mother of two girls starting a new life. As a divorced mother of three girls attempting to start a new, I found myself curious as to how the author would spin Annabelle's story.
What I liked most about this story was seeing the way Nathan, Annabelle and the girls related to each other. I enjoyed watching as Nathan came to care for the two little girls and I especially loved their interactions. The girls were a great addition to the story and I don't think I would have enjoyed the story as much if the author had kept them in the background and not made them an integral part of the book.
Annabelle and Cooper were great characters too. I liked seeing how these two stubborn individuals came together. Annabelle wanted to be independent and to have to rely on Cooper while she was recuperating made for some frustrating times. Especially since Cooper seemed to fit in so easily with her and the girls. Cooper didn't want to get involved, but he wanted to help. He knew he should focus on his career, but he just couldn't walk away from them. It was like this between these two, which made me interested in seeing how it would all turned out.
I confess that although Annabelle and Cooper had an easy rapport and some heavy-duty chemistry, their romance just didn't do it for me. It felt too insta-love for me. I would have loved to see more dialog, more of them getting to know each other instead of having them being in their heads so much. For me a connection between the couple is a must and although I did see a semblance of one brought to the page, I can't help but think that it could have been developed more. It helped a lot that their chemistry was always present. It added to my enjoyment and convinced me to give them a chance.
All in all, a fun sexy romance about new beginnings.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
Nathan Cooper is trying to put his life back on track. Unable to play the game he loves after being suspended for steroid use, Nathan goes about his day working out, keeping to himself and thinking of what to do next. He still doesn't have a set plan for his next move. He's trying his best to move forward, but regret and insecurity are waging a war against him.
Nathan and Annabelle are neighbors and although Annabelle has starred in some of Nathan's fantasies throughout the years, their relationship is no more than passing acquaintances. That is, until Annabelle accident leaves her in need of help. Soon Nathan finds himself immerse in a life he never planned for himself and falling in love with his fantasy girl.
What drew me into the story was the fact that Annabelle was a divorced mother of two girls starting a new life. As a divorced mother of three girls attempting to start a new, I found myself curious as to how the author would spin Annabelle's story.
What I liked most about this story was seeing the way Nathan, Annabelle and the girls related to each other. I enjoyed watching as Nathan came to care for the two little girls and I especially loved their interactions. The girls were a great addition to the story and I don't think I would have enjoyed the story as much if the author had kept them in the background and not made them an integral part of the book.
Annabelle and Cooper were great characters too. I liked seeing how these two stubborn individuals came together. Annabelle wanted to be independent and to have to rely on Cooper while she was recuperating made for some frustrating times. Especially since Cooper seemed to fit in so easily with her and the girls. Cooper didn't want to get involved, but he wanted to help. He knew he should focus on his career, but he just couldn't walk away from them. It was like this between these two, which made me interested in seeing how it would all turned out.
I confess that although Annabelle and Cooper had an easy rapport and some heavy-duty chemistry, their romance just didn't do it for me. It felt too insta-love for me. I would have loved to see more dialog, more of them getting to know each other instead of having them being in their heads so much. For me a connection between the couple is a must and although I did see a semblance of one brought to the page, I can't help but think that it could have been developed more. It helped a lot that their chemistry was always present. It added to my enjoyment and convinced me to give them a chance.
All in all, a fun sexy romance about new beginnings.
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
June 10, 2015
Review Copy book received from NetGalley in exchange of a honest review
This is the first book I read from this author and I loved it very much, I liked the style and the story.
Annabelle Jones divorced from a husband that sees her more than a trophy than a woman, she starts a new life in a new city with her twin daughters, Sophie and Olivia. She wants a comeback in her job as a swimsuit model, but a car accident swipes away her dream, her future and what she thinks is most important: her beauty.
"But she'd learned a long time ago that having a beautiful body didn't guarantee happiness"
Nathan Cooper is her neighbour and a baseball player, and for Annabelle's daughters he's Prince Charming. He's also the only one who can help Annabelle, but he doesn't want to get emotionally involved. She's his wet dream, the Sport Illustrator swimsuite model he dreamt about for years. Nathan is hiding a secret that had ruined his life and sport career. Taking steroids was a bad choice, something he'd be ashamed of and regret forever.
"I've been in a situation where I thought if I just stayed strong and didn't admit weakness, I could overcome anything." - Nathan
The story has a deeper meaning. It's not only about a lovestory, a fairytale, but it's about how actions and choices effect someone's life, sometimes in a very bad way. It's about finding the strength to making a comeback, trust the people we love and trust in ourselves. Mistakes could not be forgotten, but learning from them is the best redemption.
"We all make mistakes." She fell onto the mattress. "But I think our biggest regrets are for the things we don't do." - Annabelle
I loved Annabelle for the love she has for her daughters, she's smart, sexy, strong, with a little bit of insecurity that makes her sweet and beautiful.
Nathan is stubborn, but he's a loving, caring, honest, loyal Prince Charming. He has learned form his mistake.
And I completely fall in love with Sophie and Olivia. They're twin-sisters and yet so different. They're funny and very smart. I loved their innocence and the way they see love, like a fairytale where their mother is the Princess and Nathan is Prince Charming.
This book is heart warming with real life issues in it. Well written, this author has a good style and the story flows very easily.
I knew this is the third book in the series and I didn't read the summary also of the previous books because I didn't want my judgement to be influenced. I don't know what happened in the first two books, but in this one I hadn't the feeling that something was missing. No doubt I will read also the first two books.
This is the first book I read from this author and I loved it very much, I liked the style and the story.
Annabelle Jones divorced from a husband that sees her more than a trophy than a woman, she starts a new life in a new city with her twin daughters, Sophie and Olivia. She wants a comeback in her job as a swimsuit model, but a car accident swipes away her dream, her future and what she thinks is most important: her beauty.
"But she'd learned a long time ago that having a beautiful body didn't guarantee happiness"
Nathan Cooper is her neighbour and a baseball player, and for Annabelle's daughters he's Prince Charming. He's also the only one who can help Annabelle, but he doesn't want to get emotionally involved. She's his wet dream, the Sport Illustrator swimsuite model he dreamt about for years. Nathan is hiding a secret that had ruined his life and sport career. Taking steroids was a bad choice, something he'd be ashamed of and regret forever.
"I've been in a situation where I thought if I just stayed strong and didn't admit weakness, I could overcome anything." - Nathan
The story has a deeper meaning. It's not only about a lovestory, a fairytale, but it's about how actions and choices effect someone's life, sometimes in a very bad way. It's about finding the strength to making a comeback, trust the people we love and trust in ourselves. Mistakes could not be forgotten, but learning from them is the best redemption.
"We all make mistakes." She fell onto the mattress. "But I think our biggest regrets are for the things we don't do." - Annabelle
I loved Annabelle for the love she has for her daughters, she's smart, sexy, strong, with a little bit of insecurity that makes her sweet and beautiful.
Nathan is stubborn, but he's a loving, caring, honest, loyal Prince Charming. He has learned form his mistake.
And I completely fall in love with Sophie and Olivia. They're twin-sisters and yet so different. They're funny and very smart. I loved their innocence and the way they see love, like a fairytale where their mother is the Princess and Nathan is Prince Charming.
This book is heart warming with real life issues in it. Well written, this author has a good style and the story flows very easily.
I knew this is the third book in the series and I didn't read the summary also of the previous books because I didn't want my judgement to be influenced. I don't know what happened in the first two books, but in this one I hadn't the feeling that something was missing. No doubt I will read also the first two books.
May 24, 2015
I always like sports romances, but this book is a bit different from your usual hunky athlete finding love. In Making a Comeback, both the hero and heroine are damaged and have to learn to deal with their frailties while they find love. Nathan Cooper is a former star relief pitcher whose career went into the dumpster when he was caught taking a banned substance. He’s faced with trying to make a comeback into the sport that he loves when he’s almost paralyzed by shame and fear of what will happen to him again once he gets back to the pitcher’s mound. He just so happens to be the next-door neighbor of the beautiful supermodel on whom he has had a crush since her first Sports Illustrated cover a decade ago.
Mild SPOILERS ahead:
Annabelle Jones is a long ways away from those days, but she is trying to make a comeback. She’s left her husband and taken her adorable twin daughters to make a new start. Unfortunately, she’s involved in a car accident that mars her beauty. Her good-looking neighbor steps in to help take care of her and her little girls while she’s recovering.
The twin daughters are adorable and the scenes between Nathan the girls are very sweet.
So both the H and h have problems they need to confront. Nathan is so ashamed of his behavior that he is afraid to let Annabelle know who he really is. Mathews does an admirable job of drawing these characters. They’re wounded, but also strong enough to fight their way through to finding love. They’re not clichés and are more fully rounded characters than we usually find in romance novels. Despite his past transgressions, Nathan comes off as a very good person who just made a regrettable mistake. Annabelle is much stronger than you would imagine a woman known as one of the most beautiful in the world would be once she is permanently scarred. That is one reason why I wouldn’t give the book five stars; I just found her reaction too accepting of what has happened to her.
Don’t be put off by the thought of two wounded people. I found that seeing them cope with what life has given them was more rewarding than a sports romance where the guy is just a perfect physical specimen earning the big bucks and whose only weakness is that he hasn’t yet fallen for the heroine. Nathan was more of a three-dimensional character and I really enjoyed cheering him on for his recovery.
I was given an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Mild SPOILERS ahead:
Annabelle Jones is a long ways away from those days, but she is trying to make a comeback. She’s left her husband and taken her adorable twin daughters to make a new start. Unfortunately, she’s involved in a car accident that mars her beauty. Her good-looking neighbor steps in to help take care of her and her little girls while she’s recovering.
The twin daughters are adorable and the scenes between Nathan the girls are very sweet.
So both the H and h have problems they need to confront. Nathan is so ashamed of his behavior that he is afraid to let Annabelle know who he really is. Mathews does an admirable job of drawing these characters. They’re wounded, but also strong enough to fight their way through to finding love. They’re not clichés and are more fully rounded characters than we usually find in romance novels. Despite his past transgressions, Nathan comes off as a very good person who just made a regrettable mistake. Annabelle is much stronger than you would imagine a woman known as one of the most beautiful in the world would be once she is permanently scarred. That is one reason why I wouldn’t give the book five stars; I just found her reaction too accepting of what has happened to her.
Don’t be put off by the thought of two wounded people. I found that seeing them cope with what life has given them was more rewarding than a sports romance where the guy is just a perfect physical specimen earning the big bucks and whose only weakness is that he hasn’t yet fallen for the heroine. Nathan was more of a three-dimensional character and I really enjoyed cheering him on for his recovery.
I was given an advance review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2015
4.5 / 5 stars
Received an arc in exchange for an honest review; original post can be found at:
http://mnonmklreviews.blogspot.com/20...
I do love my stories where men end up in the company of little children...
Cooper has made mistakes -- and an injury that doesn't heal properly and in time sends this baseball player to doing the one thing he swore he'd never do. After taking the illegal supplements, though, he was part of a random drug search and his career tanked.
Now, he's nursing his pride and refusing to find options. He wants to play ball and the only offer coming his way is attached to a salary he feels he deserves more than.
A few months ago, a new neighbor moved in -- Annabelle Jones, former swimsuit model. When she had her first cover, Cooper enlarged it (such a guy) and used it as motivation. Never did he imagine he'd get the chance to know her.
Granted, he likes to keep fantasy and reality separate so he never actually goes to meet the woman.
One afternoon after a run, the local school bus is sitting without kids coming off. When he gets there, though, out pops Annabelle's twin daughters, Sophie and Olivia, stating that he's an adult and their neighbor, so they'd be fine. Not quite sure what to do, Cooper accepts the girls and takes them home --
...and his world as he knew it would be forever changed.
Cooper stays 'Cooper' to the girls because the last thing he wants is for Annabelle to put two-and-two together (or four-and-four, or six-and-six): her almost-ex-husband, her best friend, her best friend's husband... all hold some part in his baseball career failing.
So he's Cooper, and not Nathan Cooper, ex-baseball star.
I loved this story -- I loved the honesty that only children show; I loved the domestic side that Cooper shows, a side that I'm sure he didn't even realize he had; I loved that his first time to throw a ball was with Annabelle's daughters. This was a sweet story -- a story that didn't get as deep as I wanted it to, but still sweet nonetheless. This is a story that I would love for the author to come back to -- granted, perhaps we'll get to see more of this relationship with future books in the series.
Received an arc in exchange for an honest review; original post can be found at:
http://mnonmklreviews.blogspot.com/20...
I do love my stories where men end up in the company of little children...
Cooper has made mistakes -- and an injury that doesn't heal properly and in time sends this baseball player to doing the one thing he swore he'd never do. After taking the illegal supplements, though, he was part of a random drug search and his career tanked.
Now, he's nursing his pride and refusing to find options. He wants to play ball and the only offer coming his way is attached to a salary he feels he deserves more than.
A few months ago, a new neighbor moved in -- Annabelle Jones, former swimsuit model. When she had her first cover, Cooper enlarged it (such a guy) and used it as motivation. Never did he imagine he'd get the chance to know her.
Granted, he likes to keep fantasy and reality separate so he never actually goes to meet the woman.
One afternoon after a run, the local school bus is sitting without kids coming off. When he gets there, though, out pops Annabelle's twin daughters, Sophie and Olivia, stating that he's an adult and their neighbor, so they'd be fine. Not quite sure what to do, Cooper accepts the girls and takes them home --
...and his world as he knew it would be forever changed.
Cooper stays 'Cooper' to the girls because the last thing he wants is for Annabelle to put two-and-two together (or four-and-four, or six-and-six): her almost-ex-husband, her best friend, her best friend's husband... all hold some part in his baseball career failing.
So he's Cooper, and not Nathan Cooper, ex-baseball star.
I loved this story -- I loved the honesty that only children show; I loved the domestic side that Cooper shows, a side that I'm sure he didn't even realize he had; I loved that his first time to throw a ball was with Annabelle's daughters. This was a sweet story -- a story that didn't get as deep as I wanted it to, but still sweet nonetheless. This is a story that I would love for the author to come back to -- granted, perhaps we'll get to see more of this relationship with future books in the series.
July 28, 2015
Now this is the perfect balance of just about everything I love in a contemporary romance story. Wonderful writing that flows easily and keeps my attention from start to finish, well developed characters who you can easily become invested in, and a storyline that's believable, interesting and entertaining.
Right from the opening scene, I was pulled into the story and if it wasn't for the fact that I have to actually sleep, I would have finished this off in a single sitting. The dialogue between the characters is witty and engaging, and with a plot that could be taken straight from the real world, this story is relevant and relatable.
I loved the characters. Cooper is your textbook athlete hero-hot and sexy, strong and protective-with one teeny tiny flaw. Okay, maybe not so tiny but the regret and remorse he demonstrates shows his understanding of the impact of what he did, and endeared him even more to me the more I read. And Annabelle is an amazing woman and role model for her little girls. A strong, independent woman and an excellent example for a leading female character.
But honestly, Annabelle's twin daughters, Sophie and Olivia, really steal the show. Absolutely adorable and quite precocious, they complement each other perfectly and the story would just not be the same without their charming banter. The way they take to Cooper is so sweet-and between Annabelle, Cooper and the girls, everything just...clicks.
The only thing holding me back a bit was the tiny frustration I felt when the characters would make assumptions or not express their true feelings.
A story of redemption, finding love, and creating family, Making A Comeback was a truly enjoyable read, and I would definitely recommend it to both contemporary romance and sports romance fans. 4.5 sweet stars, recommended for 18+ due to adult sexual scenes.
Right from the opening scene, I was pulled into the story and if it wasn't for the fact that I have to actually sleep, I would have finished this off in a single sitting. The dialogue between the characters is witty and engaging, and with a plot that could be taken straight from the real world, this story is relevant and relatable.
I loved the characters. Cooper is your textbook athlete hero-hot and sexy, strong and protective-with one teeny tiny flaw. Okay, maybe not so tiny but the regret and remorse he demonstrates shows his understanding of the impact of what he did, and endeared him even more to me the more I read. And Annabelle is an amazing woman and role model for her little girls. A strong, independent woman and an excellent example for a leading female character.
But honestly, Annabelle's twin daughters, Sophie and Olivia, really steal the show. Absolutely adorable and quite precocious, they complement each other perfectly and the story would just not be the same without their charming banter. The way they take to Cooper is so sweet-and between Annabelle, Cooper and the girls, everything just...clicks.
The only thing holding me back a bit was the tiny frustration I felt when the characters would make assumptions or not express their true feelings.
A story of redemption, finding love, and creating family, Making A Comeback was a truly enjoyable read, and I would definitely recommend it to both contemporary romance and sports romance fans. 4.5 sweet stars, recommended for 18+ due to adult sexual scenes.
January 30, 2016
I fell in love with this book from the first page: it's so sweet, romantic, passionate, with special characters and an intriguing storyline.
All the characters are unique and together create a really addictive story. Annabelle was a very famous model but has abandoned her career to raise her beloved twins. After divorce, she wants to prove to herself but also to her daughters that she can maintain her family. However humbly accepts her husband's money: her pride must not damage the future of her girls. She started to do some photo shoot and it seems that her career is about to start again. Nathan Cooper is a famous baseball player but made a terrible mistake and his career was destroyed. He tries to go back to being a great player but the only offer that receives does not considered worthy of his value. He was impressed by Annabelle years ago, when he saw her for the first time on a cover, and now can't believe that she is his new neighbor. He tries to avoid any contact with her but a terrible accident forces him to change his mind. Quickly becomes a point of reference for Annabelle and her two children Sophia and Olivia. Annabelle and Nathan are very attracted to each other but can not give in to passion, could hinder their professional rebirth. Nathan also has to hide his true identity to Annabelle, afraid of his reaction.
I loved the twin daughters of Annabelle: they're very cute and funny, Olivia is shy and tender, Sophie is more enterprising and talkative. It was very nice their relationship with Nathan: he was so sweet and careful towards them. All together they were a really nice family.
It was a really pleasant reading, relaxing, light but not trivial.
I recommend it to those who love contemporary novels
I received an advance reader edition of this book via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
All the characters are unique and together create a really addictive story. Annabelle was a very famous model but has abandoned her career to raise her beloved twins. After divorce, she wants to prove to herself but also to her daughters that she can maintain her family. However humbly accepts her husband's money: her pride must not damage the future of her girls. She started to do some photo shoot and it seems that her career is about to start again. Nathan Cooper is a famous baseball player but made a terrible mistake and his career was destroyed. He tries to go back to being a great player but the only offer that receives does not considered worthy of his value. He was impressed by Annabelle years ago, when he saw her for the first time on a cover, and now can't believe that she is his new neighbor. He tries to avoid any contact with her but a terrible accident forces him to change his mind. Quickly becomes a point of reference for Annabelle and her two children Sophia and Olivia. Annabelle and Nathan are very attracted to each other but can not give in to passion, could hinder their professional rebirth. Nathan also has to hide his true identity to Annabelle, afraid of his reaction.
I loved the twin daughters of Annabelle: they're very cute and funny, Olivia is shy and tender, Sophie is more enterprising and talkative. It was very nice their relationship with Nathan: he was so sweet and careful towards them. All together they were a really nice family.
It was a really pleasant reading, relaxing, light but not trivial.
I recommend it to those who love contemporary novels
I received an advance reader edition of this book via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
July 13, 2015
Sometimes when life throws us a curve ball, we need to get our game back on and make a comeback. This was a truly heartwarming story, not only of second chances, but how to take a responsibility of our actions, make a new start in life, and see all the possibilities out there for us.
Cooper made a mistake, with good intentions, but he broke the rules of the engagement. But he owned up to it, admitted it, and cleaned up his life. He is a solid person, goodhearted, kind, and caring. It is so easy to like him, admire him, and cheer for him. His connection with Annabelle's twins is adorable and cute. Scenes with those three just melted my heart.
Cooper fell for the image of Annabelle when he first time saw her picture. For ten years, Annabelle has been his dream and fantasy. Now life brought the real deal into his life, and he is falling fast while helping her with the recovery from an accident.
Annabelle is reconstructing her life after divorce, trying to rebuild her modeling career and built a solid foundation for her daughters. Until an accident changes everything again. She is drawn to Cooper, the chemistry is hot, the attraction sizzling between them, but can she risk her heart again, not to mention the twin's heart?
The story is well written and flows out from the pages. The characters are charismatic and highly likable, honest and well developed, the turmoil of their growth is palpable. With a perfect mix of romance, life, and baseball, Making A Comeback is an entertaining story
~ Four Spoons
Cooper made a mistake, with good intentions, but he broke the rules of the engagement. But he owned up to it, admitted it, and cleaned up his life. He is a solid person, goodhearted, kind, and caring. It is so easy to like him, admire him, and cheer for him. His connection with Annabelle's twins is adorable and cute. Scenes with those three just melted my heart.
Cooper fell for the image of Annabelle when he first time saw her picture. For ten years, Annabelle has been his dream and fantasy. Now life brought the real deal into his life, and he is falling fast while helping her with the recovery from an accident.
Annabelle is reconstructing her life after divorce, trying to rebuild her modeling career and built a solid foundation for her daughters. Until an accident changes everything again. She is drawn to Cooper, the chemistry is hot, the attraction sizzling between them, but can she risk her heart again, not to mention the twin's heart?
The story is well written and flows out from the pages. The characters are charismatic and highly likable, honest and well developed, the turmoil of their growth is palpable. With a perfect mix of romance, life, and baseball, Making A Comeback is an entertaining story
~ Four Spoons
August 11, 2015
Nathan Cooper
made a hugemistake in his career. For reasons you will find out after you read the book, his career as one of the top left-handed relief pitcher has come to a halting end. Once part of a team headed for the championship, he's now a free agent with ties to no one...
Annabelle Jones is trying to start her life again. She is newly divorced with twin daughters. She's in California attempting to revive her once very lucrative modeling career. She's doing this on her own with no help from a man. She doesn't need that headache in her life again
But as it always goes in life .... life happens and our best attempts and goals always have to be managed and changed.
Nathan & Annabelle are next-door neighbors. From the beginning, they had a clear connection and chemistry. And the more they tried to stay away from each other, the more life pushed them together. And so beings the road to HEA for these two ...
I loved this story. It has all the qualities I need for a good afternoon/evening read. The leads were believable and likeable. The twins added to the relationship beautiful and pulled the best out of Nathan. They were a joy to read.
I like that even tho Annabelle and Cooper had seven degrees of separation, the story wasn't angsty and overly dramatic. It was fun and flirty and I loved it!
ARC provided by Kensington Books via NetGalley for an honest review
Annabelle Jones is trying to start her life again. She is newly divorced with twin daughters. She's in California attempting to revive her once very lucrative modeling career. She's doing this on her own with no help from a man. She doesn't need that headache in her life again
But as it always goes in life .... life happens and our best attempts and goals always have to be managed and changed.
Nathan & Annabelle are next-door neighbors. From the beginning, they had a clear connection and chemistry. And the more they tried to stay away from each other, the more life pushed them together. And so beings the road to HEA for these two ...
I loved this story. It has all the qualities I need for a good afternoon/evening read. The leads were believable and likeable. The twins added to the relationship beautiful and pulled the best out of Nathan. They were a joy to read.
I like that even tho Annabelle and Cooper had seven degrees of separation, the story wasn't angsty and overly dramatic. It was fun and flirty and I loved it!
ARC provided by Kensington Books via NetGalley for an honest review
July 23, 2015
I have definitely been wanting to read this book for a while and couldn't wait to finally open the book. Who doesn't love hot, hunky sports stars? Sports Romance books are definitely on the very top of my favorite type of books to read, especially when the main character is super sweet like Nathan Cooper.
This is my first time reading a book by Kristina Matthews and she definitely does not disappoint with her ability to write great novels! I definitely am going to start from the very beginning of this series, as Making a Comeback was a great read.
When Annabelle Jones moves next door to the disgraced Nathan Cooper, sparks fly as Cooper's childhood fantasy moves right in. With her two beautiful twin daughters in toe, love blooms all the way around as Cooper connects not only with the beautiful mom but the daughters too. As a mom myself, watching the love story unfold and especially the way Cooper handles himself around the twins makes me swoon. He is not only a hot and sexy character, he is a real man that isn't afraid to let his softer side show.
The chemistry between the characters is smoking hot ... your book may start on fire, just a friendly little warning. Making a Comeback has it all, laughter, love, romance and a bit of eye candy. Another must-read this baseball season! Must add addition to your To-Be-Read-Shelf.
This is my first time reading a book by Kristina Matthews and she definitely does not disappoint with her ability to write great novels! I definitely am going to start from the very beginning of this series, as Making a Comeback was a great read.
When Annabelle Jones moves next door to the disgraced Nathan Cooper, sparks fly as Cooper's childhood fantasy moves right in. With her two beautiful twin daughters in toe, love blooms all the way around as Cooper connects not only with the beautiful mom but the daughters too. As a mom myself, watching the love story unfold and especially the way Cooper handles himself around the twins makes me swoon. He is not only a hot and sexy character, he is a real man that isn't afraid to let his softer side show.
The chemistry between the characters is smoking hot ... your book may start on fire, just a friendly little warning. Making a Comeback has it all, laughter, love, romance and a bit of eye candy. Another must-read this baseball season! Must add addition to your To-Be-Read-Shelf.
November 3, 2015
This book is not your typical sports romance. The story has deeper meaning. It's very well written and easy to follow. Characters well developed and interesting to read.
Annabelle is trying to reboot her modeling career after her divorce, but car accident changes everything. Because she is new in town the only one to help her is her new neighbor Coop. Cooper at first don’t wont nothing to do with her because she is his obsession for years now and he don’t wont to ruin a perfect picture of her in his head. Taking care of her and her daughters after the accident he sees that there is something behind the Annabel's beauty. The relationships start to develop but Cooper's secret can ruin everything.
The story is not just about love but finding your inner strength and trust in yourself. It has a message that by doing the wrong thing you cannot accept there won't be consequence. And by admitting mistakes and correcting them is the only way to guilt free. Also what is important to have a person who supports you and gives you strength and guides you on the right path. And this story delivers all that.
Emotional enjoyable sports romance. Recomended!
*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Annabelle is trying to reboot her modeling career after her divorce, but car accident changes everything. Because she is new in town the only one to help her is her new neighbor Coop. Cooper at first don’t wont nothing to do with her because she is his obsession for years now and he don’t wont to ruin a perfect picture of her in his head. Taking care of her and her daughters after the accident he sees that there is something behind the Annabel's beauty. The relationships start to develop but Cooper's secret can ruin everything.
The story is not just about love but finding your inner strength and trust in yourself. It has a message that by doing the wrong thing you cannot accept there won't be consequence. And by admitting mistakes and correcting them is the only way to guilt free. Also what is important to have a person who supports you and gives you strength and guides you on the right path. And this story delivers all that.
Emotional enjoyable sports romance. Recomended!
*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 4, 2015
The unlikely pairing of a disgraced baseball player and a cover model was always going to have underlying issues.
Nathan Cooper is struggling to get back his career after delving into banned substances which resulted in a 50 game suspension, his trade off to another team and a potential career ending injury.
Annabelle Jones has endured public humiliation from her soon to be ex-husbands shady business dealings, a devastating accident and the loss of her prominent modelling career, before her comeback contract has even dried.
When circumstances throw these emotionally tortured souls together, they are immediately drawn to each other, but neither believes they are worthy of the love that is steadily growing between them each and every day.
Cooper is old school and wants to provide for the woman he loves, but knows that the prospect of rejoining the game he loves may be non existent, while Annabelle has spent so many years being kept by men that she is reluctant to succumb to her desire for this sexy, devoted and broken man, and relinquish her independence.
Every story in this series just sucks the reader in more than the last, and makes you impatient for what’s to come next.
Nathan Cooper is struggling to get back his career after delving into banned substances which resulted in a 50 game suspension, his trade off to another team and a potential career ending injury.
Annabelle Jones has endured public humiliation from her soon to be ex-husbands shady business dealings, a devastating accident and the loss of her prominent modelling career, before her comeback contract has even dried.
When circumstances throw these emotionally tortured souls together, they are immediately drawn to each other, but neither believes they are worthy of the love that is steadily growing between them each and every day.
Cooper is old school and wants to provide for the woman he loves, but knows that the prospect of rejoining the game he loves may be non existent, while Annabelle has spent so many years being kept by men that she is reluctant to succumb to her desire for this sexy, devoted and broken man, and relinquish her independence.
Every story in this series just sucks the reader in more than the last, and makes you impatient for what’s to come next.
June 7, 2015
3 1/2 stars
I wanted to love this book but in the end I just liked it.
Both characters were sort of flat for me. Annabelle and Cooper were very much aware of mistakes they made in their pasts. Cooper's the most severe and for me had a reason to be ashamed; however I am not sure if he redeemed himself. I question the attraction between these two characters - I felt Cooper show more affection towards the twins.
I will also say the lack of discussing their ages has me wondering - and maybe contributes to my inability to embrace them as a couple.
The plot was not as tight as I generally like and I really didn't blame Cooper on taking a step back during their conflict. At the end I am not all convinced of a HEA.
My favorite scenes were the true baseball scenes of Cooper at the training facility. The twins also brought a bright spot to the book.
The next book doesn't come out for almost a year - that is a long wait - I am not sure if the three books in the series so far entice me enough to put it on my watch list.
I received this book from the publisher via Net Galley and this is my honest review
I wanted to love this book but in the end I just liked it.
Both characters were sort of flat for me. Annabelle and Cooper were very much aware of mistakes they made in their pasts. Cooper's the most severe and for me had a reason to be ashamed; however I am not sure if he redeemed himself. I question the attraction between these two characters - I felt Cooper show more affection towards the twins.
I will also say the lack of discussing their ages has me wondering - and maybe contributes to my inability to embrace them as a couple.
The plot was not as tight as I generally like and I really didn't blame Cooper on taking a step back during their conflict. At the end I am not all convinced of a HEA.
My favorite scenes were the true baseball scenes of Cooper at the training facility. The twins also brought a bright spot to the book.
The next book doesn't come out for almost a year - that is a long wait - I am not sure if the three books in the series so far entice me enough to put it on my watch list.
I received this book from the publisher via Net Galley and this is my honest review
June 11, 2015
(This review is based on ARC e-book provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
A sweet, enjoyable, predictable “back and forth” romance featuring Cooper, a handsome professional baseball player, who is on the sidelines recovering not only from a potential career ending injury but a major league scandal, as well. His love interest is none other than his ultimate fantasy girl, Annabelle Jones, model/single mother of twin girls, who is healing physically after a serious car accident and emotionally from a pending divorce. Though it is very slow paced, the author keeps the story on track and does a good job with character development and likeability. For me, the only major surprise centered around Annabelle’s injuries in Chapter One.
If you are looking for a romantic tale where you are not bogged done with a heavy plot or major gut-wrenching angst, you might want to consider Making a Comeback. It is a “feel good” romance with a HEA where the main emotions could be summed up as indecisiveness and adversity as the couple tries to determine if they will have a future together.
A sweet, enjoyable, predictable “back and forth” romance featuring Cooper, a handsome professional baseball player, who is on the sidelines recovering not only from a potential career ending injury but a major league scandal, as well. His love interest is none other than his ultimate fantasy girl, Annabelle Jones, model/single mother of twin girls, who is healing physically after a serious car accident and emotionally from a pending divorce. Though it is very slow paced, the author keeps the story on track and does a good job with character development and likeability. For me, the only major surprise centered around Annabelle’s injuries in Chapter One.
If you are looking for a romantic tale where you are not bogged done with a heavy plot or major gut-wrenching angst, you might want to consider Making a Comeback. It is a “feel good” romance with a HEA where the main emotions could be summed up as indecisiveness and adversity as the couple tries to determine if they will have a future together.
July 29, 2015
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, pain, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Better Than Perfect (More Than A Game, #1)
Worth The Trade (More Than A Game, #2)
This is Annabelle and Nathan’s story. Annabelle is Nathan’s fantasy come to life. But if she knew his secrets she would not want to know him so he keeps to himself. When she gets hurt he steps in to take care of her and her daughters. Annabelle is attracted to her neighbor but does not want to have to depend on him for things. But after she is hurt she needs his help. As they both fight the attraction secrets are revealed. Can they overcome the secrets? Does Annabelle want to open herself up to another man after her husband broke her down with his treatment of her? Can she trust Nathan to want her for her and not the fantasy of her? Nathan might be leaving town for his job would she be okay with that or is she going to fight for him to stay?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, pain, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Better Than Perfect (More Than A Game, #1)
Worth The Trade (More Than A Game, #2)
This is Annabelle and Nathan’s story. Annabelle is Nathan’s fantasy come to life. But if she knew his secrets she would not want to know him so he keeps to himself. When she gets hurt he steps in to take care of her and her daughters. Annabelle is attracted to her neighbor but does not want to have to depend on him for things. But after she is hurt she needs his help. As they both fight the attraction secrets are revealed. Can they overcome the secrets? Does Annabelle want to open herself up to another man after her husband broke her down with his treatment of her? Can she trust Nathan to want her for her and not the fantasy of her? Nathan might be leaving town for his job would she be okay with that or is she going to fight for him to stay?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
August 5, 2015
What a beautiful story about two people who find healing touch from one another. Cooper is trying to make a come back in his baseball career after an injury and stupid mistake he regrets. Annabelle's modeling career may have just gone up in smoke after her accident. Both are in situations of finding themselves when they believe all is lost. With the magic of Annabelle's twins and the belief in fairy tales anything is possible. Loved Cooper right from the beginning being a baseball player, but they way he steps up to help Annabelle and her little girls won me right over. Yeah he screwed up, but he more than redeems himself through out this book. I really liked Annabelle's journey finding her way to stand on her own two feet after the struggles she has gone through, but also realizing accepting a helping hand every now and then isn't a bad thing. I enjoyed this so much I'm going to check out the previous two books. If you're a fan of baseball who enjoys romance you'll really appreciate this book. Even if you're not a sports nut the magic of romance will win your heart.
July 4, 2015
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an ARC copy of this book, it was such a nice, light and cute read.
This was the third in the series, but can be read as a standalone.
Summary:
With a divorce in the works, Annabelle Jones heads out to Southern California, the land of sun and starting over. She wants to prove to herself and her young daughters that she still has what it takes to turn heads as a swimsuit model—that she doesn’t need a man to take care of her. Until an accident forces her to rely on the hunky, yet mysterious man next door…
Nathan Cooper is trying to revive his own career. Once a top left-handed relief pitcher, he tried to get over a hidden injury with the aid of banned substances. Not only was he caught and suspended, he was traded and missed out on winning the championship. Now he’s a free agent without a contract, and that means life is ready to play ball…
I finally found a new author, and a new series to keep my eye on :)
This was the third in the series, but can be read as a standalone.
Summary:
With a divorce in the works, Annabelle Jones heads out to Southern California, the land of sun and starting over. She wants to prove to herself and her young daughters that she still has what it takes to turn heads as a swimsuit model—that she doesn’t need a man to take care of her. Until an accident forces her to rely on the hunky, yet mysterious man next door…
Nathan Cooper is trying to revive his own career. Once a top left-handed relief pitcher, he tried to get over a hidden injury with the aid of banned substances. Not only was he caught and suspended, he was traded and missed out on winning the championship. Now he’s a free agent without a contract, and that means life is ready to play ball…
I finally found a new author, and a new series to keep my eye on :)
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