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Spotlight New Adult #1
Falling Hard
She knows it won't last...
Nicholas Cevasco is unlike anyone Daria Kramer has ever dated. But they aren't really even dating – a fast fling is all they have time for. He's heading to Japan to play pro rugby, and she's graduating in three weeks with plans of her own.
That doesn't mean they can't have fun…as long as they don't fall hard.
This title was previously published as The Harder We Fall.
This is a Standalone Romance with No Cliffhanger.
Nicholas Cevasco is unlike anyone Daria Kramer has ever dated. But they aren't really even dating – a fast fling is all they have time for. He's heading to Japan to play pro rugby, and she's graduating in three weeks with plans of her own.
That doesn't mean they can't have fun…as long as they don't fall hard.
This title was previously published as The Harder We Fall.
This is a Standalone Romance with No Cliffhanger.
107 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
4 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Mina V. Esguerra
47 books599 followersMina V. Esguerra writes contemporary romance and young adult novellas. She has a bachelor's degree in Communication and a master's degree in Development Communication, put to good use in her work as trainer and content management consultant. Mina lives in Metro Manila, Philippines, with her husband and daughter.
She finds inspiration in the lives and experiences of other people, so the answer to "Is this story based on you?" is always, always "No."
She finds inspiration in the lives and experiences of other people, so the answer to "Is this story based on you?" is always, always "No."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 13, 2020
I don't know why but I did not like this. I went in expecting how much I would love this, like the last book I've read from this author.. but i just didn't.
I felt zero connection to both of the leads. I was not a fan of how the story was written. It all seemed too rushed for me.
I don't know if because I read Never Just Friends before this and I liked that more. Or I just didn't like the MCs of this one. Maybe because this was Ms. Mina's first attempt so she "still had her training wheels" here?
Sorry, Ms. Mina. I still love you and will still read your work.
☁ THE CRITERIA ☁
🌻 Blurb:⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Hero:⭐⭐
🌻 Heroine:⭐⭐
🌻 Support Characters:⭐⭐
🌻 Writing Style:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Character Development:⭐⭐
🌻 Romance:⭐⭐
🌻 Pacing:⭐⭐
🌻 Ending:⭐⭐
🌻 Page Turner:⭐⭐
🌻 Book Cover:⭐⭐
☁FINAL VERDICT: 2.45/5 // ⭐⭐ ☁
I felt zero connection to both of the leads. I was not a fan of how the story was written. It all seemed too rushed for me.
I don't know if because I read Never Just Friends before this and I liked that more. Or I just didn't like the MCs of this one. Maybe because this was Ms. Mina's first attempt so she "still had her training wheels" here?
Sorry, Ms. Mina. I still love you and will still read your work.
☁ THE CRITERIA ☁
🌻 Blurb:⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Hero:⭐⭐
🌻 Heroine:⭐⭐
🌻 Support Characters:⭐⭐
🌻 Writing Style:⭐⭐⭐
🌻 Character Development:⭐⭐
🌻 Romance:⭐⭐
🌻 Pacing:⭐⭐
🌻 Ending:⭐⭐
🌻 Page Turner:⭐⭐
🌻 Book Cover:⭐⭐
☁FINAL VERDICT: 2.45/5 // ⭐⭐ ☁
April 6, 2016
One of the highlights of my February – March period was binging Addison Hill. It easily become one of my favorite series. It’s simple, and it would hit your romance spot perfectly to the bone. I would recommend it in a heartbeat.
Falling Hard follows the story of Daria Kramer, a journalism intern aiming to bag the most coveted position. But, in order for that to happen, she must step out of her comfort zone. Her plan is to explore the rugby team of the Addison University. There, she met Nicholas Cevasco, a rugby player and an alumni of the university she attends to.
Esguerra’s characters are well crafted. I adore the undeniable chemistry between Daria and Nicholas. There’s no strain in the plot. It is short which comes in handy, when you’re in a reading slump. The novel slightly breaks free from its genre’s formulaic tropes. There’s no prolongation in the drama department. The writing is simpleton while remaining to be gripping as well.
My wrap-up review for Addison Hill is also posted at Hollywood News Source.
Falling Hard follows the story of Daria Kramer, a journalism intern aiming to bag the most coveted position. But, in order for that to happen, she must step out of her comfort zone. Her plan is to explore the rugby team of the Addison University. There, she met Nicholas Cevasco, a rugby player and an alumni of the university she attends to.
Esguerra’s characters are well crafted. I adore the undeniable chemistry between Daria and Nicholas. There’s no strain in the plot. It is short which comes in handy, when you’re in a reading slump. The novel slightly breaks free from its genre’s formulaic tropes. There’s no prolongation in the drama department. The writing is simpleton while remaining to be gripping as well.
My wrap-up review for Addison Hill is also posted at Hollywood News Source.
November 16, 2014
Something new -- literally and figuratively -- from our #romanceclass guru, Mina Esguerra (although not the first story from her featuring non-Pinoy characters). I love the balance it gave me while I was reading it: it is a light read with some serious issues. It is sexy and hot, but I did not connect with the characters the same way that I connected with her past works. Although her characters are not Filipinos, the narrator's tone is still similar to some of her female Pinay leads and it took me some time to visualize Daria apart from them. Oh, but I enjoyed it, truly! Not only because I love sports in general, but because it still offers the same kind of Mina's polished prose that made me crave for more stories from her. The supporting characters are equally intriguing as well (even the douchebag!). Overall, I have to get acquainted with rugby, hahaha!
October 14, 2014
When Mina says she's trying something different, she means it. This is so apparent with The Harder We Fall. I had difficulty adjusting at first, not just because of the overt sexual tension, but mostly because of the cultural jump. These aren't the usual Filipino characters I've gotten used to from her, but Americans through and through. I had to reset my brain and put it on the right track, but it was well worth it.
Because despite the differences between her old work and this new series, we fall back on familiar MVE ground---a well-written story, engaging characters, and real emotions you can relate to. (With the added bonus of hot, buttered prawn. Rawr.) This new series is definitely a winner.
ps.
Looking forward to Steph / Grayson. Mostly because Grayson, right?
Because despite the differences between her old work and this new series, we fall back on familiar MVE ground---a well-written story, engaging characters, and real emotions you can relate to. (With the added bonus of hot, buttered prawn. Rawr.) This new series is definitely a winner.
ps.
Looking forward to Steph / Grayson. Mostly because Grayson, right?
April 6, 2017
Literally the only issue I have with this book (and all the books in the series tbh) IS THAT THEY AREN'T LONGER I NEED SO MUCH MORE CUTE PLS MINA GIVE ME MORE CUTE
October 22, 2015
Having read some of Mina V. Esguerra’s romances in the past (the first and dearest to my heart being Fairy Tale Fail), I’ll admit to some doubts when I picked up a copy of The Harder We Fall. I knew the author had written the book as part of her #FlirtSteamyReads class, and I knew that the book was included in Flirt Publishing’s eight-story bundle Players: A Sports Romance Anthology (which also features Marian Tee’s Play with Me). Now, most of Esguerra’s novels are sweet and light, and sex scenes tend to be of the fade-to-black variety, much to my chagrin. So being both a fan and a friend as well as a reader who prefers her romance steamy, I felt both anticipation and trepidation when the book made it to the top of my to-be-read list.
Would she be able to pull it off? On one hand, I was singing hallelujahs because, honestly, I’m not fond of the whole foreplay-then-cut-to-the-morning-after approach to lovemaking scenes. On the other hand, I had attended some of Esguerra’s romance writing classes and had heard her talk about struggling to overcome her sex scene shame issues. Some friends had also read it before I’d gotten my hands on a copy and had promised a satisfying shower sex scene. So I dithered between excitement and worry. Which is probably why I think I did the author a disservice the first time I read this novel as I was almost completely focused on how she built up and handled the sex scenes.
On this point, I have two words—not bad.
Of course, the steam factor isn’t at Tessa Bailey or Sylvia Day levels. And the sex is on the vanilla side. But I had been expecting that. What pleased and surprised me was the way the sex scenes remained light with random injections of humor here and there. And yes, they were sweet. For me, The Harder We Fall took the steam factor up a notch (enough that I decided to put a content warning on this review, if you’ll notice, which wouldn’t be the case for most of her other work) while still maintaining that slightly self-deprecating and wholly good-humored tone that is quintessentially Mina V. Esguerra.
As for the story, well, I have to admit I had to do a second read to get a better grasp on its nuances, but this is probably because I pretty much had reading blinders on, with sex scenes in my sights, the first time I read the novel. I found the plot fairly straightforward—Daria Kramer, a filmmaker on the brink of graduation, feels she has something to prove because her father’s a hotshot in media, and she’s determined to get an internship that’ll take her halfway across the world on a humanitarian project. All applicants are required to put together a video to show off their skills, and Daria gets assigned a topic that she’s completely unfamiliar with: college rugby. But familiarity is something hunky rugby player Nicholas, an alumni of Daria’s college, is willing and downright eager to help her with.
Being fairly new to New Adult contemporary romances, I’ll admit I was surprised by just how much internal monologuing went on in the novel. But I’ve been assured that this is typical of the genre. It took some getting used to, as I usually prefer a lot more showing (doing) than telling. The grammar nazi in me also would have liked a somewhat more vigilant use of past participles where necessary, but this issue wasn’t so jarring as to render me unable to put it aside to enjoy the romance that developed between Nicholas and Daria. I salivated right along with Daria over the totally book-boyfriend-worthiness that was Nicholas “Monk” Cevasco. And I seriously hope a followup novel featuring his equally ripped best bud, Grayson, is in the works because the BBF potential on that particular rugby player is definitely sky-high.
Although this book didn’t oust the aforementioned Fairy Tale Fail as my fave MVE novel, I thought it a pretty fun read. It was easy to get through (I sped through it in under 3 hours, both times I read it), and while certainly steamier than most of the other titles by this author, it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It also isn’t set in the Philippines, and while there were some details that didn’t seem to ring exactly right for me, I found these fairly easy to forgive on the grounds of poetic license. And being just as clueless as Daria was about rugby, I can say I learned enough to scour the internet for pics of hottie players after reading The Harder We Fall!
(Originally published on WillReadForFeels.com)
Would she be able to pull it off? On one hand, I was singing hallelujahs because, honestly, I’m not fond of the whole foreplay-then-cut-to-the-morning-after approach to lovemaking scenes. On the other hand, I had attended some of Esguerra’s romance writing classes and had heard her talk about struggling to overcome her sex scene shame issues. Some friends had also read it before I’d gotten my hands on a copy and had promised a satisfying shower sex scene. So I dithered between excitement and worry. Which is probably why I think I did the author a disservice the first time I read this novel as I was almost completely focused on how she built up and handled the sex scenes.
On this point, I have two words—not bad.
Of course, the steam factor isn’t at Tessa Bailey or Sylvia Day levels. And the sex is on the vanilla side. But I had been expecting that. What pleased and surprised me was the way the sex scenes remained light with random injections of humor here and there. And yes, they were sweet. For me, The Harder We Fall took the steam factor up a notch (enough that I decided to put a content warning on this review, if you’ll notice, which wouldn’t be the case for most of her other work) while still maintaining that slightly self-deprecating and wholly good-humored tone that is quintessentially Mina V. Esguerra.
As for the story, well, I have to admit I had to do a second read to get a better grasp on its nuances, but this is probably because I pretty much had reading blinders on, with sex scenes in my sights, the first time I read the novel. I found the plot fairly straightforward—Daria Kramer, a filmmaker on the brink of graduation, feels she has something to prove because her father’s a hotshot in media, and she’s determined to get an internship that’ll take her halfway across the world on a humanitarian project. All applicants are required to put together a video to show off their skills, and Daria gets assigned a topic that she’s completely unfamiliar with: college rugby. But familiarity is something hunky rugby player Nicholas, an alumni of Daria’s college, is willing and downright eager to help her with.
Being fairly new to New Adult contemporary romances, I’ll admit I was surprised by just how much internal monologuing went on in the novel. But I’ve been assured that this is typical of the genre. It took some getting used to, as I usually prefer a lot more showing (doing) than telling. The grammar nazi in me also would have liked a somewhat more vigilant use of past participles where necessary, but this issue wasn’t so jarring as to render me unable to put it aside to enjoy the romance that developed between Nicholas and Daria. I salivated right along with Daria over the totally book-boyfriend-worthiness that was Nicholas “Monk” Cevasco. And I seriously hope a followup novel featuring his equally ripped best bud, Grayson, is in the works because the BBF potential on that particular rugby player is definitely sky-high.
Although this book didn’t oust the aforementioned Fairy Tale Fail as my fave MVE novel, I thought it a pretty fun read. It was easy to get through (I sped through it in under 3 hours, both times I read it), and while certainly steamier than most of the other titles by this author, it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It also isn’t set in the Philippines, and while there were some details that didn’t seem to ring exactly right for me, I found these fairly easy to forgive on the grounds of poetic license. And being just as clueless as Daria was about rugby, I can say I learned enough to scour the internet for pics of hottie players after reading The Harder We Fall!
(Originally published on WillReadForFeels.com)
October 19, 2014
**Review originally posted on my blog.**
The plot description already suggests that this book is not the usual Mina V. Esguerra story we’ve read before. I’m both intrigued and excited to read something that’s a bit outside my comfort read. I’ve read some steamy stories, but coming from a Filipino author whose chick lit stories I’m more accustomed to, and then suddenly being introduced to The Harder We Fall, a whole new different, daring story, that separates it from the other Mina books I’ve read, I’m curious how this book would have an effect on me.
From the usual local settings of other books, The Harder We Fall now happens in America. It focuses on two unique individuals with different career path goals who meet and their undeniable attraction has led them to form something beyond the level of friendship. I like the twist in the story that puts Daria in a situation outside her comfort zone. The development of the story is not forced as it is crafted smoothly to make Daria and Nicholas meet. Journalism is not something I find interest in, but the book is able to explore this aspect at a different angle – which is about sports. Again, I’m not a sport enthusiast, but Mina V. Esguerra still manages to make it understandable to the readers. It’s only been recent that I’ve heard of a sport called rugby and that it’s also called football, a term I’m more familiar with. In a way, I’m glad I get to experience a behind-the-scene and in-depth look on rugby. This provides an avenue to get to know some players more and their personalities.
As I read through the story, I come to realize how Daria and Nicholas are different from one another, and yet, the attraction and chemistry for each other are still there. Nicholas is portrayed as someone who is selfless, persevering, and most of all, hot! I like how he is characterized as a sporty person physically, but personality-wise, readers get to see his soft side. On the other hand, Daria’s independence and passion for journalism focusing on humanitarian work show her competitiveness and strength. Moreover, readers will slowly comprehend how her past has shaped her present self and relationship with her family. Despite the differences, Daria and Nicholas still complement each other. I love how their relationship has evolved as the story progresses.
I may not completely relate to what the characters are going through, but the story still manages to make me understand their situation and empathize with them. Seriousness aside, I must say, The Harder We Fall is the first Mina V. Esguerra book I’ve read that is steamy and definitely hot, hot, hot! (I’m hand-fanning myself right now.) I never imagined a story like this coming from Mina and I end up enjoying the book more than I expect. I love how the characters slowly reveal more of their personalities and how Daria and Nicholas’ relationship affects their decisions. The Harder We Fall is a short, but interesting read. I’ll definitely look forward to its sequel, if there happens to be one in the near future.
The plot description already suggests that this book is not the usual Mina V. Esguerra story we’ve read before. I’m both intrigued and excited to read something that’s a bit outside my comfort read. I’ve read some steamy stories, but coming from a Filipino author whose chick lit stories I’m more accustomed to, and then suddenly being introduced to The Harder We Fall, a whole new different, daring story, that separates it from the other Mina books I’ve read, I’m curious how this book would have an effect on me.
From the usual local settings of other books, The Harder We Fall now happens in America. It focuses on two unique individuals with different career path goals who meet and their undeniable attraction has led them to form something beyond the level of friendship. I like the twist in the story that puts Daria in a situation outside her comfort zone. The development of the story is not forced as it is crafted smoothly to make Daria and Nicholas meet. Journalism is not something I find interest in, but the book is able to explore this aspect at a different angle – which is about sports. Again, I’m not a sport enthusiast, but Mina V. Esguerra still manages to make it understandable to the readers. It’s only been recent that I’ve heard of a sport called rugby and that it’s also called football, a term I’m more familiar with. In a way, I’m glad I get to experience a behind-the-scene and in-depth look on rugby. This provides an avenue to get to know some players more and their personalities.
As I read through the story, I come to realize how Daria and Nicholas are different from one another, and yet, the attraction and chemistry for each other are still there. Nicholas is portrayed as someone who is selfless, persevering, and most of all, hot! I like how he is characterized as a sporty person physically, but personality-wise, readers get to see his soft side. On the other hand, Daria’s independence and passion for journalism focusing on humanitarian work show her competitiveness and strength. Moreover, readers will slowly comprehend how her past has shaped her present self and relationship with her family. Despite the differences, Daria and Nicholas still complement each other. I love how their relationship has evolved as the story progresses.
I may not completely relate to what the characters are going through, but the story still manages to make me understand their situation and empathize with them. Seriousness aside, I must say, The Harder We Fall is the first Mina V. Esguerra book I’ve read that is steamy and definitely hot, hot, hot! (I’m hand-fanning myself right now.) I never imagined a story like this coming from Mina and I end up enjoying the book more than I expect. I love how the characters slowly reveal more of their personalities and how Daria and Nicholas’ relationship affects their decisions. The Harder We Fall is a short, but interesting read. I’ll definitely look forward to its sequel, if there happens to be one in the near future.
January 8, 2015
The Harder We Fall is about one graduating college student named Daria Kramer and one Nicholas Cevasco. Daria had it all planned right from the start. She worked hard and achieved high grades. Without her father’s help. Graduation was near and success was unquestionable. She was so sure she’d get that internship in Europe. Nicholas, was the former Captain of the college rugby team. He was accepted to a rugby team in Japan. But before he leaves, he wanted to help the school’s ailing rugby team.
Until an additional challenge for Daria’s internship came up and so they meet.
What that ties Daria and Nicholas together, aside from their attraction, of course, is their determined and independent personalities. Daria, wanting to achieve without attaching her father’s name to everything, and Nicholas, to provide for his mom without asking anyone for help. Their issues, somewhat similar, run parallel with each other. I love (LOVE) independent characters. And I like seeing how they do their best to achieve their goals. Daria, I can relate to, because I understand her need to do things on her own, without the help of an influential name. But although the book talks about independence, it also talks about strength. Where that strength is also about admitting when you need help, especially if the help is given freely and wholeheartedly. And these two journey together to learn this.
I’m glad Nicholas isn’t an arrogant jock. He’s warm and thoughtful. Ready to sacrifice to a fault, his concern for the team extends up to the players as an individual. He, along with his friend Grayson Price, are determined to get enough attention for the college’s rugby team. Esguerra painted a very strong image of Nicholas and it was touching for me to watch the big guy struggle with his issues.
I love the supporting characters (notwithstanding the fact that I’m really partial to characters named Grayson). But its Kyle Lefferts who stands out for me. He is just an evil, scheming jerk, who’s standing in the side lines, waiting for the chance to clip Daria’s wings. One of the measures of a good writer, for me, is when they can make me hate the antagonist. Scheming, rumor spreading antagonists are the best (or worst) kind. And Kyle, I hate him, like wring hands in frustration-slam-the–book-shut-in-anger hate. No wonder Daria shudders. (Here’s me shuddering *shudder*).
If there’s anything I enjoyed since I started blogging, rediscovering Filipino literature. The Harder we Fall is Mina V. Esguerra’s first in her Spotlight Series. It’s also my first book by her and it’s a combination of everything I’ve started to love. It’s an excellent light read, with hot romance, great narration and wonderful characters. I will be looking forward to Grayson’s story and for all her other books. And probably try to drag my husband to a rugby game of the Philippine Volcanoes one day ^.~
View the blog post here: http://wp.me/pE9ue-ee
Until an additional challenge for Daria’s internship came up and so they meet.
What that ties Daria and Nicholas together, aside from their attraction, of course, is their determined and independent personalities. Daria, wanting to achieve without attaching her father’s name to everything, and Nicholas, to provide for his mom without asking anyone for help. Their issues, somewhat similar, run parallel with each other. I love (LOVE) independent characters. And I like seeing how they do their best to achieve their goals. Daria, I can relate to, because I understand her need to do things on her own, without the help of an influential name. But although the book talks about independence, it also talks about strength. Where that strength is also about admitting when you need help, especially if the help is given freely and wholeheartedly. And these two journey together to learn this.
I’m glad Nicholas isn’t an arrogant jock. He’s warm and thoughtful. Ready to sacrifice to a fault, his concern for the team extends up to the players as an individual. He, along with his friend Grayson Price, are determined to get enough attention for the college’s rugby team. Esguerra painted a very strong image of Nicholas and it was touching for me to watch the big guy struggle with his issues.
I love the supporting characters (notwithstanding the fact that I’m really partial to characters named Grayson). But its Kyle Lefferts who stands out for me. He is just an evil, scheming jerk, who’s standing in the side lines, waiting for the chance to clip Daria’s wings. One of the measures of a good writer, for me, is when they can make me hate the antagonist. Scheming, rumor spreading antagonists are the best (or worst) kind. And Kyle, I hate him, like wring hands in frustration-slam-the–book-shut-in-anger hate. No wonder Daria shudders. (Here’s me shuddering *shudder*).
If there’s anything I enjoyed since I started blogging, rediscovering Filipino literature. The Harder we Fall is Mina V. Esguerra’s first in her Spotlight Series. It’s also my first book by her and it’s a combination of everything I’ve started to love. It’s an excellent light read, with hot romance, great narration and wonderful characters. I will be looking forward to Grayson’s story and for all her other books. And probably try to drag my husband to a rugby game of the Philippine Volcanoes one day ^.~
View the blog post here: http://wp.me/pE9ue-ee
February 13, 2015
A week ago, I decided to go book hunting on Amazon and when I saw some contemporary romances by Pinoy authors, I knew I had to get one from Mina V. Esguerra because I have heard & read lots of positive reviews about her novels. And after reading this, I became a believer!
Daria needed to do a video project about the Rugby club in Addison Hill in order to get an internship spot and be on her way to Europe and Asia after graduation. Then she met The Monk, Nicholas Cevasco. Well, it was more like, she touched him, his massive back and strong arms, all grimy and sweaty. Upon meeting the other players of the rugby team, Daria found herself liking the Monk very much. (I did, too!) Who wouldn't? He's a genuinely nice guy, who's got the physique, the talent, the brain and the oh-so caring & loyal attributes a girl usually looks for in a guy. Too bad, the feeling's not mutual with Grayson, his co-captain, although he seemed like a nice guy with perfect teeth and all.
But Daria had to keep her feelings for Nicholas, because she's bound to move away after this video project is done. What made matters worse, even though Nicholas seemed to have fallen for her, he couldn't also stay with her because he's also heading to another continent to become the professional rugby player he's always dreamed of. Could they bottle up their emotions and just forget what happened that summer?
I really liked Daria in this book. She's one tough cookie! She gave her best in everything she did and didn't use her father's influence to gain credibility. Nicholas, on the other hand, had been to hell and back, to give his rugby team the recognition they deserve. He may look high and mighty and ruthless in the field, but deep inside, he was a kind-hearted, sweet, gentle giant. I think, Nicholas has become my swoon-worthy book-boyfriend, as of this moment. Plus, he has proven time and again, that he is not a "monk"... *wink wink*
I give props to Miss Esguerra for writing a steamy yet classy New Adult book. She has this way of setting a scene then building characters that are believable and easy to relate with. My heart fluttered while reading this because I felt the intensity of emotions. She's such an effective author who could write characters with flaws and complexities but you'll find yourself still rooting for them. To sum this up, The Harder We Fall by Mina V. Esguerra blew me away and almost rendered me speechless. (Yes, almost..)
Daria needed to do a video project about the Rugby club in Addison Hill in order to get an internship spot and be on her way to Europe and Asia after graduation. Then she met The Monk, Nicholas Cevasco. Well, it was more like, she touched him, his massive back and strong arms, all grimy and sweaty. Upon meeting the other players of the rugby team, Daria found herself liking the Monk very much. (I did, too!) Who wouldn't? He's a genuinely nice guy, who's got the physique, the talent, the brain and the oh-so caring & loyal attributes a girl usually looks for in a guy. Too bad, the feeling's not mutual with Grayson, his co-captain, although he seemed like a nice guy with perfect teeth and all.
But Daria had to keep her feelings for Nicholas, because she's bound to move away after this video project is done. What made matters worse, even though Nicholas seemed to have fallen for her, he couldn't also stay with her because he's also heading to another continent to become the professional rugby player he's always dreamed of. Could they bottle up their emotions and just forget what happened that summer?
I really liked Daria in this book. She's one tough cookie! She gave her best in everything she did and didn't use her father's influence to gain credibility. Nicholas, on the other hand, had been to hell and back, to give his rugby team the recognition they deserve. He may look high and mighty and ruthless in the field, but deep inside, he was a kind-hearted, sweet, gentle giant. I think, Nicholas has become my swoon-worthy book-boyfriend, as of this moment. Plus, he has proven time and again, that he is not a "monk"... *wink wink*
I give props to Miss Esguerra for writing a steamy yet classy New Adult book. She has this way of setting a scene then building characters that are believable and easy to relate with. My heart fluttered while reading this because I felt the intensity of emotions. She's such an effective author who could write characters with flaws and complexities but you'll find yourself still rooting for them. To sum this up, The Harder We Fall by Mina V. Esguerra blew me away and almost rendered me speechless. (Yes, almost..)
October 18, 2015
Series review originally posted at Chachic's Book Nook.
I had an ARC of Falling Hard for months. I have no idea why I kept putting it off, I think I just wasn't in the mood to pick it up. I felt like reading something light and fun just as my new Kindle Paperwhite arrived so this title had the honor of being the first book I read on it. I literally finished this book in one sitting. I think I started reading it while having dinner and finished it before going to bed. Aside from being set in the US, other factors that made this book different from Mina's earlier titles are: 1) it's a lot steamier *fans self* and 2) it's sports romance.
I knew next to nothing about rugby but that didn't stop me from enjoying the book. It was easy to like Nicholas and Daria, and I liked how the trope of the two of them being from different social circles played out. It felt natural, and it was nice that there wasn't any unnecessary drama. They knew from the start what they were getting into, and what conflicts might arise. Even though this was a short book, I also liked that the theme of trying to figure out what they want to do with their lives was present in the story. I think that's always something that new adults worry about. I obviously enjoyed reading Falling Hard and was immediately curious about the rest of the titles in the series. I jumped right into the second book after reading this first one.
I had an ARC of Falling Hard for months. I have no idea why I kept putting it off, I think I just wasn't in the mood to pick it up. I felt like reading something light and fun just as my new Kindle Paperwhite arrived so this title had the honor of being the first book I read on it. I literally finished this book in one sitting. I think I started reading it while having dinner and finished it before going to bed. Aside from being set in the US, other factors that made this book different from Mina's earlier titles are: 1) it's a lot steamier *fans self* and 2) it's sports romance.
Surely there was a pulsing heart inside of this stinking pile of guys on the ground. Massive, sweating, dirty, powerful, virile pile of... what?
I knew next to nothing about rugby but that didn't stop me from enjoying the book. It was easy to like Nicholas and Daria, and I liked how the trope of the two of them being from different social circles played out. It felt natural, and it was nice that there wasn't any unnecessary drama. They knew from the start what they were getting into, and what conflicts might arise. Even though this was a short book, I also liked that the theme of trying to figure out what they want to do with their lives was present in the story. I think that's always something that new adults worry about. I obviously enjoyed reading Falling Hard and was immediately curious about the rest of the titles in the series. I jumped right into the second book after reading this first one.
October 18, 2014
This campy story centers around a media-arts contest and the trials of an alumni rugby player. The story is told as a vignette, a slice of life, during the last two weeks of Daria Kramer's college career where she submits her final video project to compete for an internship.
Her instructor made sure to pick topics outside of the students' comfort zones and Daria got the Addison Hill Rugby team. She meets a few of the players, finds out about how underfunded the team is, and then comes to an understanding about how this sport helps the players assert themselves in their lives.
A particular player, Nicholas, becomes closer to her, and in the process of filming, they begin a sexual relationship. It is a standoffish kind of relationship in that communication is done through the interview and even though issues of great personal importance are made known, neither party seems to pursue these weighty issues or make an attempt to really break through.
This isn't what I'm used to from Ms. Esguerra's characters who are usually very caring, even to the point of nosiness and surrounded by busybody best friends. The story felt... lonely.
I received an ARC for this review.
Her instructor made sure to pick topics outside of the students' comfort zones and Daria got the Addison Hill Rugby team. She meets a few of the players, finds out about how underfunded the team is, and then comes to an understanding about how this sport helps the players assert themselves in their lives.
A particular player, Nicholas, becomes closer to her, and in the process of filming, they begin a sexual relationship. It is a standoffish kind of relationship in that communication is done through the interview and even though issues of great personal importance are made known, neither party seems to pursue these weighty issues or make an attempt to really break through.
This isn't what I'm used to from Ms. Esguerra's characters who are usually very caring, even to the point of nosiness and surrounded by busybody best friends. The story felt... lonely.
I received an ARC for this review.
April 1, 2016
*received a gifted copy from BINIBINI in exchange for an honest review for Filipino Friday*
This was a cute read. :) The characters had their own stories going on, but it was interesting getting little hints of Nicholas' thoughts and real feelings through Daria's inquisitive nature. The whole thing was really hot, but aside from the hot scenes, the rest of it all felt like I was enjoying something amazing with a very thing wall between us. I've read a few books by this author and her stories have always managed to shove its claws right through my chest and touch me. This one barely grazed me, but it still stands to be a cute college story with struggles and love. Maybe this story will reach you in ways it couldn't with me, so it's a recommend.
This was a cute read. :) The characters had their own stories going on, but it was interesting getting little hints of Nicholas' thoughts and real feelings through Daria's inquisitive nature. The whole thing was really hot, but aside from the hot scenes, the rest of it all felt like I was enjoying something amazing with a very thing wall between us. I've read a few books by this author and her stories have always managed to shove its claws right through my chest and touch me. This one barely grazed me, but it still stands to be a cute college story with struggles and love. Maybe this story will reach you in ways it couldn't with me, so it's a recommend.
September 26, 2015
I was given a complementary copy for an honest review by author Mina V. Esguerra. This is book 1 of the Addison Hill series by the author.
Daria Kramer is a college student who is involved in an internship contest where she is to shoot a video of the rugby team players.
Nicholas Cevasco is a professional rugby player and he is taking a trip to start playing in Japan. What started out as a innocent assignment turned into something totally hot for Daria but can she keep her heart from getting broken.
The author gave the characters very good interaction. Great story line from the author.
This book is for college romance book readers.
Daria Kramer is a college student who is involved in an internship contest where she is to shoot a video of the rugby team players.
Nicholas Cevasco is a professional rugby player and he is taking a trip to start playing in Japan. What started out as a innocent assignment turned into something totally hot for Daria but can she keep her heart from getting broken.
The author gave the characters very good interaction. Great story line from the author.
This book is for college romance book readers.
January 9, 2016
This was a gift to me by my best friend who went to Mina Esguerra's book signing. I was ecstatic having this signed book that I read it in one go.Which was very weird because I already read the 3rd and latest book in the series before this first. Now where does the first and third book intersect? Apparently this Daria is Steph's roommate. And Grayson was once co-captain with Nicholas. I loved their chemistry, the tension was there and the witty banter was also there. But if I would compare the Learning to Fall and this, I would definitely choose Learning to Fall. But that doesn't mean I didn't like this...I did.
March 19, 2015
The author should have maximized the length of her book, it put her in a disadvantageous state knowing that her book only limits to a rough estimate of 100 pages. I, the reader wasn't able to have that connection with her fictional characters because she had fast forwarded in an incredulous pace. I would have liked a deeper background story than an empty romance filled with only sex lines. This story had a small amount of potential even with it aligning to cliche. This was more like an excerpt I'd used for my Book report in school. Very disappointing...
January 16, 2015
This book is GOOD! Very good! This is the kind of book that gives you a lesson, it shows you that you can have it all even if you leave something behind.
I loved Daria and Nicholas, their personality is so strong, their chemistry huge. They have their heads in the right path and they know what they want.
Is great to read a book that have all the insight and not only focus on the romance. This one is a great example!
I would love to know more about them :)
I loved Daria and Nicholas, their personality is so strong, their chemistry huge. They have their heads in the right path and they know what they want.
Is great to read a book that have all the insight and not only focus on the romance. This one is a great example!
I would love to know more about them :)
February 3, 2015
Yes, I pictured Channing Tatum all throughout this book and I have no regrets!
Though this was a slim book, Mina convincingly took me through Daria and Nicholas' journey from first meeting to sizzle to complication to resolution. Nothing felt forced or contrived and I totally understood both the main characters' motivations.
Also I enjoyed all the descriptions of muscle and grime and workouts and sweat and did I already say muscle? Yeah. Thank you.
Though this was a slim book, Mina convincingly took me through Daria and Nicholas' journey from first meeting to sizzle to complication to resolution. Nothing felt forced or contrived and I totally understood both the main characters' motivations.
Also I enjoyed all the descriptions of muscle and grime and workouts and sweat and did I already say muscle? Yeah. Thank you.
March 31, 2015
Really really loved this book because of the lead characters' chemistry right from the start. They are certainly compatible and sparks were flying! I thought it was just a novel about a steamy fling, but it is much more than that. This will teach you about falling in love fast, sacrifices and valuing things. I really really loved it and Daria is the girl that Mass Communnication students can relate into. ❤
August 19, 2015
I read this book coming from MVE's Interim Goddess of Love and My Imaginary Ex. One is YA and one is a sweet romance, so I honestly didn't know what to expect. It was steamy alright, but steamy done right, I think. I related to Daria, and how she planned her life to the letter. I liked that it was not a troublesome boy who she met, but someone who had plans of his own too, for his own reasons. Another stellar read from Mina.
January 7, 2015
The Harder We Fall would be a great read for NA readers, especially those who really love NA. And for those who don’t read NA, maybe you should give it a try, when you’re ready. After all, reading has its own time.
Full review on my book blog: https://bibliophilesoprano.wordpress....
Full review on my book blog: https://bibliophilesoprano.wordpress....
September 18, 2015
Mina Esguerra is one of the Filipino authors that I look up to. I feel really giddy whenever she releases a new book.
I've read her works and this one is different. Although there's hot scenes and serious issue contents, this story is a winner. This one is steamier than her previous romance stories.
Ms. Mina, you nailed it! xoxo
I've read her works and this one is different. Although there's hot scenes and serious issue contents, this story is a winner. This one is steamier than her previous romance stories.
Ms. Mina, you nailed it! xoxo
October 4, 2015
Daria is to submit her final video project to compete for an internship. She is doing the video on rugby. Which is something she has never been into, any sport that is. She has been focused on her career path and this internship. She meets Nicholas who helps her form not only a video but, herself as a person.
February 22, 2018
a quick enjoyable read. Alls im saying is that shower scene tho!!! damn *fans self*
Everything happened pretty quickly between Nicholas and Daria but i really enjoyed both characters and like i said steamyyyyy
side note: i'm ready for Grayson and Steph now. i maybe shipped them a bit even though they never even meet in this book lol.
Everything happened pretty quickly between Nicholas and Daria but i really enjoyed both characters and like i said steamyyyyy
side note: i'm ready for Grayson and Steph now. i maybe shipped them a bit even though they never even meet in this book lol.
September 26, 2014
Nicholas <3 Daria
Excerpt:
'Air came back into my mouth like a breeze, owing to him softly disengaging.
"I get it," I said. "Not a monk, I totally get it."'
You guys can relate why this makes me so kilig once you read it!
Excerpt:
'Air came back into my mouth like a breeze, owing to him softly disengaging.
"I get it," I said. "Not a monk, I totally get it."'
You guys can relate why this makes me so kilig once you read it!
March 24, 2015
Just the right amount of sexual tension, and steamy sex that isn't written awkwardly. The plot is straight to the point, no heavy drama, and quite realistic as far as character interactions go. So far, MVE hasn't let me down with her short stories.
March 24, 2017
really cute fun read!
Read
October 13, 2021Love it
May 19, 2022
2.5/5
I liked the interview style of the book and the way Daria turned things around at the end. The writing was a bit all over the place for me.
I liked the interview style of the book and the way Daria turned things around at the end. The writing was a bit all over the place for me.
January 15, 2020
I LIKED
-The story was straight-to-the-point. No bull, no overplay, only good storytelling.
-That it tackled new adult~ stuff, like how to figure out living and how to deal—things easy to relate to because the reader, which in this case was me, is most likely undergoing the same experience
-The courage in how the sex was written. I don't remember reading a lot of sex scenes in Filipino novels in English so this was somehow new. (Or maybe it's just been too long since I last read Filipino romance?)
I DIDN'T ENJOY
-That it was too short for my liking.
-Whenever I think of Daria, I think Daria of MTV. Whenever I think of Nicholas, I think of Nicholas Sparks. I have to scrub my brain with soap.
-The story was straight-to-the-point. No bull, no overplay, only good storytelling.
-That it tackled new adult~ stuff, like how to figure out living and how to deal—things easy to relate to because the reader, which in this case was me, is most likely undergoing the same experience
-The courage in how the sex was written. I don't remember reading a lot of sex scenes in Filipino novels in English so this was somehow new. (Or maybe it's just been too long since I last read Filipino romance?)
I DIDN'T ENJOY
-That it was too short for my liking.
-Whenever I think of Daria, I think Daria of MTV. Whenever I think of Nicholas, I think of Nicholas Sparks. I have to scrub my brain with soap.
January 3, 2015
"There will be some things that you need to do for yourself, so you don't hate yourself..."
I love you, Nicholas. :)
I love you, Nicholas. :)
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