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Jock
CLICHÉS She can't stand them. Hates them. Refuses to be one. But... Tessa Brooks is strong-willed, sassy, determined, and on the brink of dominating in the testosterone-fueled sport of horse racing. She’s spent her life avoiding the norm, staying true to herself to achieve her ultimate goals. Her relationship with Jace Hitchen, her brother's best friend, just might be the biggest cliché of all. Over the years, he’s been her protector, her annoyance, her confidante, her crush. But giving in to what she’s really wanted for the last ten years could be the very thing that destroys all she's worked for and wanted. Can Tessa achieve her dreams for the future but still hold on to the past?
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
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April 1, 2016
5 Stars!
Loved this one! I didn't want to put it down once I started. Stayed up all night to finish!
Jace has always been in Tessa's life. He's seven years older than her. He's her brothers best friend. Tessa and Jace have a very special bond. I loved that we got to go back in time and witness them growing up and how special their friendship was. Once Tessa gets older their friendship slowly turns to more.
Tessa and Jace were so damn funny. I loved them both so much. The way they joked around with each other cracked me up. Tessa was really funny. Some of the shit that came out of her mouth had tears rolling out of my eyes and my belly hurting from laughing so hard.
Tessa was a jockey. She was a pain in everyone's ass. She was feisty and pretty much said and did what she wanted and she wanted to be a jockey. She wasn't going to let anything or anyone get in the way of her dreams. I thought she was super strong to endure what jockeys have to go through to make weight. It was hard reading about it. She was practically starving herself. This was a big concern for Jace and her family. But Tessa didn't care what they thought she had a dream and this was a big part of it and she was going to do this no matter what. She didn't have time for her feelings about Jace. She woke up at 4am everyday and started her job. She was never late to work until Jace and feelings about him came into the picture.
I loved that Jace wanted to woo Tessa. He wooed me that's for sure! He was always there for her. He was always trying to protect her and look out for her. He was perfect or was he?
Will Tessa be able to juggle being a jockey, barely getting any sleep, barely eating, exercising a lot, Sunday dinners with her family and have a boyfriend (that is a secret for now)?
Will Jace be able to sit back and support Tessa's crazy non healthy lifestyle without trying to get in the way of her dreams?
What's going to happen when Tessa's brother Lawrence (Jace's best friend) finds out they are dating?
What's he family going to think when they find out?
You my friends will have to read this to find out!
If you love a sweet and slightly steamy best friends to lovers read this one is perfect for you! I think this is the third book in the series. I didn't read book 1 but I read book 2 and this one. No problems keeping up:))
“I love you, Midge,” he whispered. I reached up and brushed my lips against his. “I love you more.” “Stop trying to one-up me.” I grinned. “Jockeys are a competitive lot.”
Loved this one! I didn't want to put it down once I started. Stayed up all night to finish!
Jace has always been in Tessa's life. He's seven years older than her. He's her brothers best friend. Tessa and Jace have a very special bond. I loved that we got to go back in time and witness them growing up and how special their friendship was. Once Tessa gets older their friendship slowly turns to more.
Tessa and Jace were so damn funny. I loved them both so much. The way they joked around with each other cracked me up. Tessa was really funny. Some of the shit that came out of her mouth had tears rolling out of my eyes and my belly hurting from laughing so hard.
Tessa was a jockey. She was a pain in everyone's ass. She was feisty and pretty much said and did what she wanted and she wanted to be a jockey. She wasn't going to let anything or anyone get in the way of her dreams. I thought she was super strong to endure what jockeys have to go through to make weight. It was hard reading about it. She was practically starving herself. This was a big concern for Jace and her family. But Tessa didn't care what they thought she had a dream and this was a big part of it and she was going to do this no matter what. She didn't have time for her feelings about Jace. She woke up at 4am everyday and started her job. She was never late to work until Jace and feelings about him came into the picture.
I loved that Jace wanted to woo Tessa. He wooed me that's for sure! He was always there for her. He was always trying to protect her and look out for her. He was perfect or was he?
Will Tessa be able to juggle being a jockey, barely getting any sleep, barely eating, exercising a lot, Sunday dinners with her family and have a boyfriend (that is a secret for now)?
Will Jace be able to sit back and support Tessa's crazy non healthy lifestyle without trying to get in the way of her dreams?
What's going to happen when Tessa's brother Lawrence (Jace's best friend) finds out they are dating?
What's he family going to think when they find out?
You my friends will have to read this to find out!
If you love a sweet and slightly steamy best friends to lovers read this one is perfect for you! I think this is the third book in the series. I didn't read book 1 but I read book 2 and this one. No problems keeping up:))
“I love you, Midge,” he whispered. I reached up and brushed my lips against his. “I love you more.” “Stop trying to one-up me.” I grinned. “Jockeys are a competitive lot.”
November 1, 2015
LIVE!!!! In honor of American Pharoah!!
Amazon:
http://amzn.to/1GDvV1X
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Amazon uk:
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Barnes and Noble:
http://bit.ly/1ki0z6u
Amazon:
http://amzn.to/1GDvV1X
Kobo:
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebo...
Scribd:
https://www.scribd.com/book/287899412...
Inktera:
http://www.inktera.com/store/title/1c...
iBooks
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id10...
Amazon uk:
http://amzn.to/1l0R9wI
Amazon ca:
http://amzn.to/1OePVdS
Barnes and Noble:
http://bit.ly/1ki0z6u
October 31, 2015
Review by Natasha Gentile
I have to say that before I started this book I knew nothing about jockeys, or horses for that matter. I mean who hasn’t heard of the Kentucky Derby but if we are all honest, or at least I am, I just want to attend so I can buy myself one of those cool hats. But then this book fell into my hands, and I see it as so much more. Here was my take on it.
CLICHES
She can't stand them.
Hates them.
Refuses to be one.
But...
Tessa Brooks- this little chick is a fire storm. And When I say little I’m not making fun of her, I’m a munchkin myself. Not only is she a whopping 5’3, she is strong-willed, sassy, and determined to not let anyone stand in the way of her and her dream. You would not believe what her dream is, she wants to enter the sport of horse racing. The highly dominated by men and testosterone sport.
She does what she needs to do in order to be taken seriously. At times in the book I thought she was just a little too hard on herself. But if you want to be the best you have to train with the best. And does she ever train, who knew that so much work goes into riding a horse??
It’s not to say that she doesn’t do anything extra-curricular. She still gets to tangle the sheets with none other than Jace Hitchen, her brother's best friend.
Jace has been in their household since forever. Even being there on the day she came home from the hospital. Jace made the ultimate promise to her mom, he vowed always take care of her. What starts out as him always protecting her, annoying her, being her confidant and all around best friend, turns into love. She feels it first, he just needed to be told.
I didn’t want to. Or I did want to. I don’t know, but I turned, one step at a time, until we were face-to-face. Well, kind of. Face to chest. I tilted my head back so I could look into his face. His expression was searching but otherwise unreadable. He lifted his hand, cupping my jaw in his palm. I leaned into his touch, afraid of what was next and yet dying to know.
So now they have made it to the point that there is no going back, there is only going forward. The question is how will Jace handle her extreme devotion to becoming the best woman in a man’s sport? How will he take the way she pushes herself? Will he be that protector he promised to be or will it be too much for him to handle? Either way she is determined to be the Jock!
I fell in love with this couple. I loved their struggle because it was real. It’s a love story but it’s also a story about acceptance and support. Accepting that she will be the strong willed woman and supporting her through the extreme training that she does.
I have to say that before I started this book I knew nothing about jockeys, or horses for that matter. I mean who hasn’t heard of the Kentucky Derby but if we are all honest, or at least I am, I just want to attend so I can buy myself one of those cool hats. But then this book fell into my hands, and I see it as so much more. Here was my take on it.
CLICHES
She can't stand them.
Hates them.
Refuses to be one.
But...
Tessa Brooks- this little chick is a fire storm. And When I say little I’m not making fun of her, I’m a munchkin myself. Not only is she a whopping 5’3, she is strong-willed, sassy, and determined to not let anyone stand in the way of her and her dream. You would not believe what her dream is, she wants to enter the sport of horse racing. The highly dominated by men and testosterone sport.
She does what she needs to do in order to be taken seriously. At times in the book I thought she was just a little too hard on herself. But if you want to be the best you have to train with the best. And does she ever train, who knew that so much work goes into riding a horse??
It’s not to say that she doesn’t do anything extra-curricular. She still gets to tangle the sheets with none other than Jace Hitchen, her brother's best friend.
Jace has been in their household since forever. Even being there on the day she came home from the hospital. Jace made the ultimate promise to her mom, he vowed always take care of her. What starts out as him always protecting her, annoying her, being her confidant and all around best friend, turns into love. She feels it first, he just needed to be told.
I didn’t want to. Or I did want to. I don’t know, but I turned, one step at a time, until we were face-to-face. Well, kind of. Face to chest. I tilted my head back so I could look into his face. His expression was searching but otherwise unreadable. He lifted his hand, cupping my jaw in his palm. I leaned into his touch, afraid of what was next and yet dying to know.
So now they have made it to the point that there is no going back, there is only going forward. The question is how will Jace handle her extreme devotion to becoming the best woman in a man’s sport? How will he take the way she pushes herself? Will he be that protector he promised to be or will it be too much for him to handle? Either way she is determined to be the Jock!
I fell in love with this couple. I loved their struggle because it was real. It’s a love story but it’s also a story about acceptance and support. Accepting that she will be the strong willed woman and supporting her through the extreme training that she does.
October 28, 2015
I sure am a sucker for the brother’s best friend books and this is one of the best I read. *Sigh* And it had a vagina heartbeat—can’t get much better!
I have to be honest and say I was a little hesitant to read about horse racing. It has never interested me and I have never been on a horse, but I am a huge fan of the author, as well as the other angle, and I am so glad that I read it.
Jock is the story of Tessa, aka Midge. She has been fighting her whole life to be something different. She has always dreamed of being a jockey and with her small size it is the perfect job for her. Though, it comes at a high cost.
“He doesn’t want to go. He wants to fight. He wants to matter. He doesn’t want to go. He just will. Because to fight and do things that matter, sometimes you have to go.”
Jace is Tessa’s older brother, Lawrence’s best friend. He is been around since she was born. He has been her protector, her savior, and her friend. Tessa has crushed on him for a long time and when Jace finally allowed himself to see her as a woman, it really opened his eyes.
“I wanted so much of her, all of her. I wanted to touch her and consume her, kiss her, make love to her…love her. Was it right? No. No, it wasn’t. But it definitely didn’t feel wrong either.”
I couldn’t put this story down, I had to know what was going to happen. I loved the entire cast of characters, especially the Brooks family! It also really enlightened me into the world of horse racing and how competitive a sport it is; how much a jockey goes through just to ride a horse. It was sweet, sad, funny, and steamy. This was another fantastic read from Ms. Foss! ~ Tiffany, 4.5 stars
~~~
There probably aren't too many people sitting around and thinking, ‘Do you know what would be sexy? A book about horse racing and jockeys!’ The fact C.M. Foss did—or at least, I'm fairly certain that's how this book came about, and not because of a love of the sport or anything so mundane as that—just proves something about this author. She's creative, she's funny, and she knows how to get right into your heart.
Tessa Brooks is on the brink of making in the male-dominated, rough and tumble world of horse racing. It's been no easy task, but the years she's invested in it are finally about to pay off. During those tough years, her brother’s best friend, Jace has been one of her strongest protectors. She's crushed on him, desired him, and talked to him about her goals. And now, after all this time, it seems they're finally going to give it a shot.
But what will Tessa do when it turns out that the man she wants might just be the thing stopping her from achieving her lifelong dream?
Circle of truth time? Yes, I think so. I actually finished this book several days ago. Normally, I am not so tardy with my reviews, but I couldn't work out what I wanted to say. And, in actual fact, I still pretty much have no idea. Jock was…an experience. A good one—a great one even. One I can't quite explain. But I'm going to try… (Better be ready for run-on sentences, people!)
You know how reviewers say books are a “roller coaster”? (I'm so guilty of this; it's just an easy way to talk about the ups-and-downs). This book was more like the Disney monorail. It takes you to wonderful places, but it never goes to crazy-high heights and stomach-dropping lows. It eases around the track, same pace, same level of feeling and enjoyment, none of the terror. And I liked that about this book—it was easy, but not simple. C.M. Foss had me constantly moving and thinking, on a low simmer. She had me falling for the characters, worrying about them, questioning their decisions, and angering at their choices, their reactions and their mistakes. But she did it at such an easy pace—oh, man, I know I am missing the chance to use some choice horse puns here—that I didn't know until I was done how much this book had truly reached me.
Jock wasn't really what I was expecting—but it was funny in a way I've come to recognize as Ms. Foss’ signature style, emotional on a level I didn't even truly recognize until I started trying to explain it, and it was sexy with a little swoon. Seriously, a book about a jockey…who'd have thought?! ~ Beth, 4 stars
~~~
Tessa Brooks is tough as nails. I mean, she's the youngest of six which has left her with a thick skin due to years of teasing and joking from her older siblings. But her toughness goes deeper than that. She's single minded and driven, and this girl is going to dominate the horse racing circuit come hell or high water. That is, if she keeps her feelings for her brother’s best friend from leading her completely off course.
Jace Hitchen is basically a member of the Brooks family. He's known Tessa since she was born, and he's always felt fiercely protective over her. As she blossomed into adulthood, his feelings blossomed with her—he just wants her to give him a chance. Jace also is single minded and driven—and he's set his sights on Tessa.
This story is so rich and beautifully told. The banter between Jace and Tessa is adorable and authentic, adding a depth and playfulness to their relationship that is sometimes missing due to Tessa's single minded focus on her career. The entire Brooks family wormed their way into my heart—boisterous family dinners, place cards, merciless teasing and all.
I am not terribly familiar with horse racing and so I appreciated the Author's Note included in this book, which provided some insight to why Tessa was the way she was. But even with that information, I struggled sometimes to understand her decisions and I wanted to wring her neck on more than one occasion. It’s a testament to how wrapped up in the story I was that I wanted to bop her in the head and tell her to stop being such an idiot—like she was my own little sister. I mean, it was plain to see that there could never be another man for her than Jace. He is patient and giving and understanding in a way that most people would not be capable of, especially when consistently met with Tessa’s steadfast resistance.
God, I loved Jace. I loved his smart mouth. I loved how steady and sure he was even when everything was falling apart around him. I loved the safe haven he gave Tessa, even when it wasn’t the kind of haven she was looking for. He just kept trying until he got it right. He's just…wonderful.
I basically devoured this book, pausing only to wipe the grit from my eyes and try to correct my double vision—the side effect of staring at my Kindle too long. It was a tougher story for me in that I struggled to understand and empathize with Tessa, but it gave us a brutal, unflinching look into the life of a jockey and so it all felt so authentic and real, and it paid off so wonderfully.
Beautifully and engagingly written, I literally couldn't put it down. Jock is sweet and swoony, humorous and heartbreaking. If you're looking to take your feels on a ride, this is a sure bet! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
I have to be honest and say I was a little hesitant to read about horse racing. It has never interested me and I have never been on a horse, but I am a huge fan of the author, as well as the other angle, and I am so glad that I read it.
Jock is the story of Tessa, aka Midge. She has been fighting her whole life to be something different. She has always dreamed of being a jockey and with her small size it is the perfect job for her. Though, it comes at a high cost.
“He doesn’t want to go. He wants to fight. He wants to matter. He doesn’t want to go. He just will. Because to fight and do things that matter, sometimes you have to go.”
Jace is Tessa’s older brother, Lawrence’s best friend. He is been around since she was born. He has been her protector, her savior, and her friend. Tessa has crushed on him for a long time and when Jace finally allowed himself to see her as a woman, it really opened his eyes.
“I wanted so much of her, all of her. I wanted to touch her and consume her, kiss her, make love to her…love her. Was it right? No. No, it wasn’t. But it definitely didn’t feel wrong either.”
I couldn’t put this story down, I had to know what was going to happen. I loved the entire cast of characters, especially the Brooks family! It also really enlightened me into the world of horse racing and how competitive a sport it is; how much a jockey goes through just to ride a horse. It was sweet, sad, funny, and steamy. This was another fantastic read from Ms. Foss! ~ Tiffany, 4.5 stars
~~~
There probably aren't too many people sitting around and thinking, ‘Do you know what would be sexy? A book about horse racing and jockeys!’ The fact C.M. Foss did—or at least, I'm fairly certain that's how this book came about, and not because of a love of the sport or anything so mundane as that—just proves something about this author. She's creative, she's funny, and she knows how to get right into your heart.
Tessa Brooks is on the brink of making in the male-dominated, rough and tumble world of horse racing. It's been no easy task, but the years she's invested in it are finally about to pay off. During those tough years, her brother’s best friend, Jace has been one of her strongest protectors. She's crushed on him, desired him, and talked to him about her goals. And now, after all this time, it seems they're finally going to give it a shot.
But what will Tessa do when it turns out that the man she wants might just be the thing stopping her from achieving her lifelong dream?
Circle of truth time? Yes, I think so. I actually finished this book several days ago. Normally, I am not so tardy with my reviews, but I couldn't work out what I wanted to say. And, in actual fact, I still pretty much have no idea. Jock was…an experience. A good one—a great one even. One I can't quite explain. But I'm going to try… (Better be ready for run-on sentences, people!)
You know how reviewers say books are a “roller coaster”? (I'm so guilty of this; it's just an easy way to talk about the ups-and-downs). This book was more like the Disney monorail. It takes you to wonderful places, but it never goes to crazy-high heights and stomach-dropping lows. It eases around the track, same pace, same level of feeling and enjoyment, none of the terror. And I liked that about this book—it was easy, but not simple. C.M. Foss had me constantly moving and thinking, on a low simmer. She had me falling for the characters, worrying about them, questioning their decisions, and angering at their choices, their reactions and their mistakes. But she did it at such an easy pace—oh, man, I know I am missing the chance to use some choice horse puns here—that I didn't know until I was done how much this book had truly reached me.
Jock wasn't really what I was expecting—but it was funny in a way I've come to recognize as Ms. Foss’ signature style, emotional on a level I didn't even truly recognize until I started trying to explain it, and it was sexy with a little swoon. Seriously, a book about a jockey…who'd have thought?! ~ Beth, 4 stars
~~~
Tessa Brooks is tough as nails. I mean, she's the youngest of six which has left her with a thick skin due to years of teasing and joking from her older siblings. But her toughness goes deeper than that. She's single minded and driven, and this girl is going to dominate the horse racing circuit come hell or high water. That is, if she keeps her feelings for her brother’s best friend from leading her completely off course.
Jace Hitchen is basically a member of the Brooks family. He's known Tessa since she was born, and he's always felt fiercely protective over her. As she blossomed into adulthood, his feelings blossomed with her—he just wants her to give him a chance. Jace also is single minded and driven—and he's set his sights on Tessa.
This story is so rich and beautifully told. The banter between Jace and Tessa is adorable and authentic, adding a depth and playfulness to their relationship that is sometimes missing due to Tessa's single minded focus on her career. The entire Brooks family wormed their way into my heart—boisterous family dinners, place cards, merciless teasing and all.
I am not terribly familiar with horse racing and so I appreciated the Author's Note included in this book, which provided some insight to why Tessa was the way she was. But even with that information, I struggled sometimes to understand her decisions and I wanted to wring her neck on more than one occasion. It’s a testament to how wrapped up in the story I was that I wanted to bop her in the head and tell her to stop being such an idiot—like she was my own little sister. I mean, it was plain to see that there could never be another man for her than Jace. He is patient and giving and understanding in a way that most people would not be capable of, especially when consistently met with Tessa’s steadfast resistance.
God, I loved Jace. I loved his smart mouth. I loved how steady and sure he was even when everything was falling apart around him. I loved the safe haven he gave Tessa, even when it wasn’t the kind of haven she was looking for. He just kept trying until he got it right. He's just…wonderful.
I basically devoured this book, pausing only to wipe the grit from my eyes and try to correct my double vision—the side effect of staring at my Kindle too long. It was a tougher story for me in that I struggled to understand and empathize with Tessa, but it gave us a brutal, unflinching look into the life of a jockey and so it all felt so authentic and real, and it paid off so wonderfully.
Beautifully and engagingly written, I literally couldn't put it down. Jock is sweet and swoony, humorous and heartbreaking. If you're looking to take your feels on a ride, this is a sure bet! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
November 1, 2015
5 STARS – Looking for a sexy, sweet, funny and quirky read? Jock checks all the boxes!
“I felt every look like he was branding me, hot and permanent. The wound would heal but the scar would remain, and I was fine with that.”
Jock is a friends to lovers romance that spans the years of childhood right up to present day and adulthood. Tessa has known Jace for as long as she can remember. He’s always been part of her family, best friends with her brothers; he’s always been a part of her in life in one way or another…
“Where was my breath? I felt like I was chasing it.”
Tessa has always dreamed of being a Jockey, and everyone knows this. She is driven, stubborn beyond reason, she has a tongue that is sharper than a tack. Completely at home on the back of a horse she will do whatever necessary and sacrifice everything to make her dreams come true…
Jace has goals; he’s completed his masters and is now the proud owner & operator of his own business. Catering to those who can afford his services, he provides security and peace of mind to his clients. He’s really sweet and caring, thoughtful and protective of those he loves.
Lately he’s been feeling things for his best friend’s sister that are leaving him feeling very confused…a sudden tragedy has left everyone grieving and raw.
“The air between us felt… thicker, the events from just a couple weeks ago bringing us closer than we were before. Maybe closer than we should be.”
This story is a light, funny, sexy and quirky read. Jock is told from both Tessa and Jaces’ point of views but let me warn you, Tessa is not your typical heroine. In fact I’m not even sure that word applies to Tessa at all. She’s the girl that does what she wants and listens to no one. She has goals and dreams and nothing or no one is going to stand in her way of accomplishing something when she sets her mind to it. The life of a jockey, especially any successful one, tough. A lack of sleep, food, social life and hours after hours of grueling physical labour is demanded, but none of this really bothers Tessa, she wants this and she will accomplish it! She’s so incredibly focused on her career, she has very little time for relationships, but when Jace reappears at a family gathering, she feels a very definite shift but then he’s gone…
Now torn between her feelings and desires, her exhaustion and her food deprived brain what ensues is entertaining, frustrating and hilarious.
Did I mention SEXY??? Jace and Tessa’s sexual chemistry is HOT!!!
The push and pull is addictive and the connection is undeniable.
“I wanted so much of her, all of her. I wanted to touch her and consume her, kiss her, make love to her…love her.
Was it right?
No. No, it wasn’t.
But it definitely didn’t feel wrong either.”
CM Foss gives us a story that is incredibly easy to read. It’s not overwrought with drama, it’s incredibly well written and it flows effortlessly. Tessa and Jace will steal your heart, and even though I wanted to throttle Tessa more than a few times, I understood her inner conflict and her sacrifices to a certain extent. Finding a balance between her life and her passion is going to be a challenge. Jace is kind of impossible not to love; he’s patient, kind, and thoughtful. He’s also dangerously good looking and knows how to get what he wants when he wants it… but Tessa is not going to make it easy for him, not even a little bit.
“His hand came up to grip my arm. There was something about the touch of skin on skin in such an innocent way that set my heart up into my throat and then back down. Really far down. I swear it was beating in my vagina. Yep, nope that was it. Lub dub. Between my legs. Vagina heartbeat.”
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
I enjoyed this newest book by CM Foss; it just felt authentic and natural, never forced. I loved the storyline, the characters with all of the quirks and banter and I fell in love with the romance. If you need a book to pull you out of a book hangover or something that’s just fun to read without all the drama, angst, and sadness, Jock is your book!
“Intense. Profound. Drunk on each other. Because weren’t the most intense and profound moments in life found we were drunk… on something.”
CM Foss has now ruined Birthday Cake gum for me!
Every time I see a package I may gag and snort laugh...
but Hey it’s all good!
HAHAHAHAHA
“I felt every look like he was branding me, hot and permanent. The wound would heal but the scar would remain, and I was fine with that.”
Jock is a friends to lovers romance that spans the years of childhood right up to present day and adulthood. Tessa has known Jace for as long as she can remember. He’s always been part of her family, best friends with her brothers; he’s always been a part of her in life in one way or another…
“Where was my breath? I felt like I was chasing it.”
Tessa has always dreamed of being a Jockey, and everyone knows this. She is driven, stubborn beyond reason, she has a tongue that is sharper than a tack. Completely at home on the back of a horse she will do whatever necessary and sacrifice everything to make her dreams come true…
Jace has goals; he’s completed his masters and is now the proud owner & operator of his own business. Catering to those who can afford his services, he provides security and peace of mind to his clients. He’s really sweet and caring, thoughtful and protective of those he loves.
Lately he’s been feeling things for his best friend’s sister that are leaving him feeling very confused…a sudden tragedy has left everyone grieving and raw.
“The air between us felt… thicker, the events from just a couple weeks ago bringing us closer than we were before. Maybe closer than we should be.”
This story is a light, funny, sexy and quirky read. Jock is told from both Tessa and Jaces’ point of views but let me warn you, Tessa is not your typical heroine. In fact I’m not even sure that word applies to Tessa at all. She’s the girl that does what she wants and listens to no one. She has goals and dreams and nothing or no one is going to stand in her way of accomplishing something when she sets her mind to it. The life of a jockey, especially any successful one, tough. A lack of sleep, food, social life and hours after hours of grueling physical labour is demanded, but none of this really bothers Tessa, she wants this and she will accomplish it! She’s so incredibly focused on her career, she has very little time for relationships, but when Jace reappears at a family gathering, she feels a very definite shift but then he’s gone…
Now torn between her feelings and desires, her exhaustion and her food deprived brain what ensues is entertaining, frustrating and hilarious.
Did I mention SEXY??? Jace and Tessa’s sexual chemistry is HOT!!!
The push and pull is addictive and the connection is undeniable.
“I wanted so much of her, all of her. I wanted to touch her and consume her, kiss her, make love to her…love her.
Was it right?
No. No, it wasn’t.
But it definitely didn’t feel wrong either.”
CM Foss gives us a story that is incredibly easy to read. It’s not overwrought with drama, it’s incredibly well written and it flows effortlessly. Tessa and Jace will steal your heart, and even though I wanted to throttle Tessa more than a few times, I understood her inner conflict and her sacrifices to a certain extent. Finding a balance between her life and her passion is going to be a challenge. Jace is kind of impossible not to love; he’s patient, kind, and thoughtful. He’s also dangerously good looking and knows how to get what he wants when he wants it… but Tessa is not going to make it easy for him, not even a little bit.
“His hand came up to grip my arm. There was something about the touch of skin on skin in such an innocent way that set my heart up into my throat and then back down. Really far down. I swear it was beating in my vagina. Yep, nope that was it. Lub dub. Between my legs. Vagina heartbeat.”
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
I enjoyed this newest book by CM Foss; it just felt authentic and natural, never forced. I loved the storyline, the characters with all of the quirks and banter and I fell in love with the romance. If you need a book to pull you out of a book hangover or something that’s just fun to read without all the drama, angst, and sadness, Jock is your book!
“Intense. Profound. Drunk on each other. Because weren’t the most intense and profound moments in life found we were drunk… on something.”
CM Foss has now ruined Birthday Cake gum for me!
Every time I see a package I may gag and snort laugh...
but Hey it’s all good!
HAHAHAHAHA
November 7, 2015
Any book that has the heroine as the incredibly talented sports star, trying to break out in a male dominated sport has my attention right off the bat and the beginning of this charming love story Jock had my whole attention, for the first half of the book anyway, as it takes us through Tessa and Jace’s childhood and teenage years, giving us an invaluable glimpse into how Jace’s protective nature was often stifling for the younger girl but it’s through his role as her protector and bodyguard that their feelings become entwined and take on a more mature nature to them.
‘“No really. Life is dirty.” I stood up to pace. “It’s messy and unfair and painful. And the most beautiful things come out of it. If you want to spend your life with another person, they’re gonna see it all anyway. Why not throw it out there from the get-go? Maybe the best romances come from the person who already knows your deepest and darkest.”’
There are some really well written scenes and dialogue in Jock, in fact the whole plot is well imagined, I just felt that some of it hurried along at too quick of a pace whereas other scenes dragged on unnecessarily.
Tessa strives to become a jockey, from the time she could walk her life revolved around training and horses but often times I found her character to be a little too focused on her career and I felt we never really got beneath the surface of her to find out enough to make me really care about her. At times Tessa came across as a little self-centred and focused solely on her own goals without giving much thought to her family or Jace. She’s intelligent, feisty and spirited but there was just something missing in her that I found I didn’t really connect with her character. Jace too was a little one dimensional. We know he feels a need to watch out for Tessa and play the big brother role even though he is only a friend of the family, but his growing attraction to Tessa lacked that sexual tension and passion I would come to expect in such a story, it was sweet and little low key with very few obstacles thrown in the way to disrupt the equilibrium. It was an okay read but I didn’t feel that all important spark between the two main protagonists, it felt lacklustre and rushed. There were certain important and tragic events in the story, during the beginning that were rushed along and glossed over that really needed to either be explored in depth or at least expanded upon. I liked Jock but I didn’t love it.
~Nicole
‘“No really. Life is dirty.” I stood up to pace. “It’s messy and unfair and painful. And the most beautiful things come out of it. If you want to spend your life with another person, they’re gonna see it all anyway. Why not throw it out there from the get-go? Maybe the best romances come from the person who already knows your deepest and darkest.”’
There are some really well written scenes and dialogue in Jock, in fact the whole plot is well imagined, I just felt that some of it hurried along at too quick of a pace whereas other scenes dragged on unnecessarily.
Tessa strives to become a jockey, from the time she could walk her life revolved around training and horses but often times I found her character to be a little too focused on her career and I felt we never really got beneath the surface of her to find out enough to make me really care about her. At times Tessa came across as a little self-centred and focused solely on her own goals without giving much thought to her family or Jace. She’s intelligent, feisty and spirited but there was just something missing in her that I found I didn’t really connect with her character. Jace too was a little one dimensional. We know he feels a need to watch out for Tessa and play the big brother role even though he is only a friend of the family, but his growing attraction to Tessa lacked that sexual tension and passion I would come to expect in such a story, it was sweet and little low key with very few obstacles thrown in the way to disrupt the equilibrium. It was an okay read but I didn’t feel that all important spark between the two main protagonists, it felt lacklustre and rushed. There were certain important and tragic events in the story, during the beginning that were rushed along and glossed over that really needed to either be explored in depth or at least expanded upon. I liked Jock but I didn’t love it.
~Nicole
October 14, 2015
I received a copy of this book in return for leaving an honest review.
I loved this book. The story and the characters are well developed and just freaking amazing. My favorite thing about this book, other than the whole horse race scene, was that Tessa didn't need Jace to complete her. They needed both needed each other, side by side as equals to make a magnificent whole. And that to me is what makes a fantastic love story. The only con to this book for me was I wasn't ready for it to be over. While the story was absolutely complete, I'm just a tad bit greedy with characters that I come to love and what to know all the things.
I really appreciate the fact that C.M. Foss did such a great job capturing the life and struggles of female jockies. The good, the bad and the life threatening ugly. One final thought, I really and I do mean really hope to see a book on Drew and Cooper. I'm to fond of my first born to offer up a sacrifice, but I'm definitely not above begging and pleading.
I loved this book. The story and the characters are well developed and just freaking amazing. My favorite thing about this book, other than the whole horse race scene, was that Tessa didn't need Jace to complete her. They needed both needed each other, side by side as equals to make a magnificent whole. And that to me is what makes a fantastic love story. The only con to this book for me was I wasn't ready for it to be over. While the story was absolutely complete, I'm just a tad bit greedy with characters that I come to love and what to know all the things.
I really appreciate the fact that C.M. Foss did such a great job capturing the life and struggles of female jockies. The good, the bad and the life threatening ugly. One final thought, I really and I do mean really hope to see a book on Drew and Cooper. I'm to fond of my first born to offer up a sacrifice, but I'm definitely not above begging and pleading.
October 16, 2015
I love CM's stories! I love the humor and the sexy times! I didn't want it to end, I wanted more Jace and Tessa! They are so good together and I love how they challenged and supported each other.
November 7, 2015
4.5 of 5 Hearts.
This is the first book I have read by C.M. Foss and it most certainly will not be my last. I love how she captivated me from the very being of this book and never let me down. I mean who doesn’t love a good brother’s best friend book? The best part was that this book was so much more. This book is about fighting for what you love and never giving up on that dream no matter what other may say or think.
One of my favorite things about this book is that we get to see Jace Hitchen the first part of the book growing up and taking care of Tessa. I loved how it would take us over the years on how Jace saw things playing out. His drive and ambitions and then it switched over to Tessa and we viewed the world through her eyes.
I would have loved more of the book to rotate between the two, but I understand why it didn’t.
Another thing I would have loved is a little more struggle over the conflict between loving your best friends little sister and how that went from protecting her to falling in love with her. Jace always teased Tessa and nicknamed her Midge which stuck throughout the story. Maybe that is when I knew their bond was something special. They needed each other even as children.
Tessa Brooks is one of those heroines you just have to love. She is strong, quick witted, and just wants to make her mark on the world in a field that many say is impossible to succeed in. Every time someone told Tessa she should not do something or she would not succeed she proved them wrong. The only kink in her plan was that her feeling for Jace grew every time she was around him.
I am not gonna lie, I swooned like a crazy girl numerous times over how Jace cared for Tessa. He did not care what anyone else thought; he loved her and wanted to take care of her.(even when Tessa wanted to run.) They were complete opposites that complemented each other perfectly. Jace was laid back, carefree and had a thing for wearing flip-flops which I adored, while Tessa was headstrong and wore her heart on her sleeve.
This is the first book I have read by C.M. Foss and it most certainly will not be my last. I love how she captivated me from the very being of this book and never let me down. I mean who doesn’t love a good brother’s best friend book? The best part was that this book was so much more. This book is about fighting for what you love and never giving up on that dream no matter what other may say or think.
One of my favorite things about this book is that we get to see Jace Hitchen the first part of the book growing up and taking care of Tessa. I loved how it would take us over the years on how Jace saw things playing out. His drive and ambitions and then it switched over to Tessa and we viewed the world through her eyes.
I would have loved more of the book to rotate between the two, but I understand why it didn’t.
Another thing I would have loved is a little more struggle over the conflict between loving your best friends little sister and how that went from protecting her to falling in love with her. Jace always teased Tessa and nicknamed her Midge which stuck throughout the story. Maybe that is when I knew their bond was something special. They needed each other even as children.
Tessa Brooks is one of those heroines you just have to love. She is strong, quick witted, and just wants to make her mark on the world in a field that many say is impossible to succeed in. Every time someone told Tessa she should not do something or she would not succeed she proved them wrong. The only kink in her plan was that her feeling for Jace grew every time she was around him.
I am not gonna lie, I swooned like a crazy girl numerous times over how Jace cared for Tessa. He did not care what anyone else thought; he loved her and wanted to take care of her.(even when Tessa wanted to run.) They were complete opposites that complemented each other perfectly. Jace was laid back, carefree and had a thing for wearing flip-flops which I adored, while Tessa was headstrong and wore her heart on her sleeve.
October 17, 2015
Jock
CM Foss
3.5 stars
So this was different for me. Not bad by any means just different. Im more of a high intense type of style reader so reading something that calms was a change. Again not bad … just different and that’s good to branch out.
Tessa Brooks is the youngest of the Brooks family. She is a spunky, sassy and a no shit taking girl. Anything that Tessa gets a “no” to she wants to do it more and she does. Being the best is what her life is about. This little thing is a go getter.
Tessa’s brother’s best friend Jace Hitchen has been her defender since birth. He gives her a silly nickname and vows to shelter her from anything that may harm her. Jace believes that Tessa needs protection from outsiders or those that may want to harm her. He doesn’t want her brilliance dulled by anyone. Breaking into the life of being a jockey as a female is brutal. Playing honest and Tessa’s innocent is something that he wants her to keep in view.
Tessa is determined to stand on her own. Jace is so focused on keeping her safe from harm he doesn’t see what she needs is his support. She knows the life of a female jockey is hard but she also knows she will fight to be at the top.
The family ties in this book are very well written. It’s a true account of how a family should function along with tears, laughter and love. Tessa and Jace’s story is a nice one. If you like romance and easy reads this book is for you.
I was provided an ARC for an honest review. Review to post on Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets. Thank you CM. I enjoyed it!
CM Foss
3.5 stars
So this was different for me. Not bad by any means just different. Im more of a high intense type of style reader so reading something that calms was a change. Again not bad … just different and that’s good to branch out.
Tessa Brooks is the youngest of the Brooks family. She is a spunky, sassy and a no shit taking girl. Anything that Tessa gets a “no” to she wants to do it more and she does. Being the best is what her life is about. This little thing is a go getter.
Tessa’s brother’s best friend Jace Hitchen has been her defender since birth. He gives her a silly nickname and vows to shelter her from anything that may harm her. Jace believes that Tessa needs protection from outsiders or those that may want to harm her. He doesn’t want her brilliance dulled by anyone. Breaking into the life of being a jockey as a female is brutal. Playing honest and Tessa’s innocent is something that he wants her to keep in view.
Tessa is determined to stand on her own. Jace is so focused on keeping her safe from harm he doesn’t see what she needs is his support. She knows the life of a female jockey is hard but she also knows she will fight to be at the top.
The family ties in this book are very well written. It’s a true account of how a family should function along with tears, laughter and love. Tessa and Jace’s story is a nice one. If you like romance and easy reads this book is for you.
I was provided an ARC for an honest review. Review to post on Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets. Thank you CM. I enjoyed it!
November 3, 2015
As a reader, what I look forward to most about CM Foss's books is her trademark humor, and Jock didn't disappoint. Her type of humor is right up my alley, and I find myself laughing out loud, earning weird looks from those around me. I always walk away from her books with a new term to throw around, and new reasons to anticipate what she'll come up with next.
Tessa and Jace's story literally begins when Tessa is born. As her older brother Lawrence's best friend, Jace takes on the "protector" role, and forms a special bond with her as she grows up. We get to follow their story through little snippets of past events, whilst each builds their own life. When neither of them can deny their attraction to each other, and act on it one night, the reader gets to follow the yo-yo of emotions, indecision, and insecurity of both Tessa and Jace. Tessa is building her career as a jockey, one that is proving to be tough on many levels, emotionally as well as physically. Jace is trying to bust out of the "big brother" role to convince Tessa to give him a chance, and to prove that he is worthy of her affections.
Different in some ways than her previous three novels, Shiver, Swoon, and City Beautiful, Foss still writes a wonderful story full of angst, passion, sass, and strongly-written characters. I would recommend it to readers that enjoy a kick-ass female lead character, and a swoon-tastic love interest.
Tessa and Jace's story literally begins when Tessa is born. As her older brother Lawrence's best friend, Jace takes on the "protector" role, and forms a special bond with her as she grows up. We get to follow their story through little snippets of past events, whilst each builds their own life. When neither of them can deny their attraction to each other, and act on it one night, the reader gets to follow the yo-yo of emotions, indecision, and insecurity of both Tessa and Jace. Tessa is building her career as a jockey, one that is proving to be tough on many levels, emotionally as well as physically. Jace is trying to bust out of the "big brother" role to convince Tessa to give him a chance, and to prove that he is worthy of her affections.
Different in some ways than her previous three novels, Shiver, Swoon, and City Beautiful, Foss still writes a wonderful story full of angst, passion, sass, and strongly-written characters. I would recommend it to readers that enjoy a kick-ass female lead character, and a swoon-tastic love interest.
November 4, 2015
As soon as I read that there's a guy named 'Jace' in this book, I knew we were gonna have a heated romance on our hands!
But this book isn't centered on romance. On the contrary! This book focuses on what women can do if they put their minds to it, and the importance of family. It also gives a shout-out to the age-old saying 'If you love something let it go. If it comes back it was always yours. If it doesn't, it never was.' Jock and its female protagonist are motivational and thought-provoking.
And if you're not a horse lover, by the end of this book you will be!
This book is eye-opening, honestly. I never knew how much sweat, pain, tears, and spirit went into being a jockey and I can now say that I have a true appreciation for them and the work they do :)
But this book isn't centered on romance. On the contrary! This book focuses on what women can do if they put their minds to it, and the importance of family. It also gives a shout-out to the age-old saying 'If you love something let it go. If it comes back it was always yours. If it doesn't, it never was.' Jock and its female protagonist are motivational and thought-provoking.
And if you're not a horse lover, by the end of this book you will be!
This book is eye-opening, honestly. I never knew how much sweat, pain, tears, and spirit went into being a jockey and I can now say that I have a true appreciation for them and the work they do :)
November 8, 2015
Oh my, the feels....
my heart is about to burst at the seams from all the happy feels!
Jock is super sweet, swoony and sexxxxy!
It captures a unique bond of friends to lovers, love story that is down right adorable.
It also captures Tess's determination to not only "make it" but dominate in the male oriented, time consuming world of horse racing; the good, the bad and the ugly.
Tess aka Midge is sassy, stubborn and ambitious while
Jace is fiercely protective, sweet and funny!
Jace and Midge's romance will make your heart melt with
their quick witted banter and subtle flirting.
There is little to no drama or angst.
Cm easily creates a beautiful world to get lost in.
Her well developed characters are so damn lovable and the plot is extraordinary.
The writing is engaging. It flows with such ease, I finished the book in one afternoon!
CM Foss once again shows us why she is indeed
" THE G.O.A.T."
my heart is about to burst at the seams from all the happy feels!
Jock is super sweet, swoony and sexxxxy!
It captures a unique bond of friends to lovers, love story that is down right adorable.
It also captures Tess's determination to not only "make it" but dominate in the male oriented, time consuming world of horse racing; the good, the bad and the ugly.
Tess aka Midge is sassy, stubborn and ambitious while
Jace is fiercely protective, sweet and funny!
Jace and Midge's romance will make your heart melt with
their quick witted banter and subtle flirting.
There is little to no drama or angst.
Cm easily creates a beautiful world to get lost in.
Her well developed characters are so damn lovable and the plot is extraordinary.
The writing is engaging. It flows with such ease, I finished the book in one afternoon!
CM Foss once again shows us why she is indeed
" THE G.O.A.T."
November 1, 2015
This book was very different that anything I have ever read. Yes it had an amazing romance that spanned decades, but it centered around a female jockey. Which was quite interesting to dip into. But lets talk about this incredibly enduring life long family friend --> Become friends--> become loves ---> HEA.
This book takes a look into a girl/woman's.. Tessa's struggle to complete her dream of becoming a jockey. OMG ... I am floored by her story. It was painful to read..It was so heartbreaking to see her think she could not have both things.. a great life and her jockey dream. So sad.
OMG... I loved, loved, loved JACE. He took care and watched over Tessa with everything he had. He never asked her to give up her career, he was so supportive. He was truly amazing.
I loved watching her heal, I loved watching her find balance and the story was incredible.. #MustRead. #OneClick this amazing romance!
This book takes a look into a girl/woman's.. Tessa's struggle to complete her dream of becoming a jockey. OMG ... I am floored by her story. It was painful to read..It was so heartbreaking to see her think she could not have both things.. a great life and her jockey dream. So sad.
OMG... I loved, loved, loved JACE. He took care and watched over Tessa with everything he had. He never asked her to give up her career, he was so supportive. He was truly amazing.
I loved watching her heal, I loved watching her find balance and the story was incredible.. #MustRead. #OneClick this amazing romance!
November 5, 2015
Once again CM Foss has written an amazing book. I love getting to know Jace and Tessa, especially starting at the very beginning when Tessa is a baby. I enjoyed them both as individuals but when they were together the back and forth banter was so much fun! The connection between Jace and Tessa was so strong that it dragged me into their relationship from the very beginning. I also had fun seeing glimpses of the Brooks family as a whole. The author has a wonderful way of balancing challenges, love and family in a story. I really enjoyed reading this book and will be recommending it to my bookworm friends. I can't wait to read what the author comes up with next.
September 20, 2015
Loved it. Strong independent woman. She needs a man to stand beside her and cheer her on. Beautiful story. Couldn't put it down.
November 17, 2015
Jock by CM Foss was such a great read for me. I had been reading some pretty heavy books lately that left me a bit drained. When I picked this one up, I found myself laughing and smiling throughout this story. This book had so many wins for me. The writing was good and the span of time was interesting to watch progress. Overall Jock was a fascinating look into a world I knew very little about. When that world is coupled with a sweet love story, it is worth recognizing.
Let’s start with the major theme of the book: jockeys and horse racing. This is something I know basically nothing about. I mean I loved to watch the Kentucky Derby races and races in the UK on TV (sometimes for the race but let's be honest, I watched for the big hat fashions). I had never understood the culture and the work that goes into this whole world. It is a tradition that goes back hundreds of years but all I know is what the TV shows me. Getting an insider’s view, and a female perspective at that, makes this story fantastic. You see the beauty and the dark side of this sport. It was interesting to see what goes into racing and what the jockeys are required to do. I loved watching Tessa find her place and embrace the challenges in her profession. It is hard and scary but the reward and satisfaction outweighed it all.
Another of my favorite parts of this book is Tessa herself. This book circles around her quite a bit. When the book is in the present day and we see her as a jockey you cannot help but admire her determination. This girl is sassy. Her personality is saturated with confidence, swagger, and resolve. Yet there are also moments of frustration, anger, and annoyance. This girl is a fantastic New Adult character. She is unapologetically who she is, despite her families worries, and she embraces the challenges ahead. She longs to realize her dreams and win. Tessa’s internal dialogue is one of the my favorite things in this book. She is snarky and feisty. Her reactions make me laugh out loud. She is real and at times broken. I loved how she is who she is and nothing will stand in her way.
The romance in this story was a bit different. I love a story in which friends fall in love but this one is more. At the beginning of the book, the story is in Jace’s POV as Tessa is born and grows up. It was endearing to watch them throughout the years: to see their friendship grow and become a solid foundation for what would come years later. Jace is her protector and her friend. Tessa is always keeping Jace on his toes. When they both grow up there is a moment when a lifelong crush on Tessa’s end becomes more causing a spark in Jace, which results in something more happening between them. There is so much history intertwined with these two that you cannot truly have one without the other. No matter how long they would go without seeing one another, they came back to that place and kept moving forward, solidifying their deep friendship as it grows into a romantic one. I loved how you see their history and how it enriches the present love story. They are perfect for each other. Age, life choices, and geography cannot keep them apart and that is beautiful. I was a bit hesitant about them falling in love when she was a good few years younger, but Foss does a great job of maturing their relationship as they go, allowing them to be what is needed throughout the years.
The more I read by CM Foss, the more I want! This book deals with realities and romance in a fun and original setting. Jock gives the reader a story to fall in love with and characters to applaud. I am excited to see what happens next and hope for a spin off in this series for a few of the characters introduced. There is a lot of potential for so much more in the jockey world!
Let’s start with the major theme of the book: jockeys and horse racing. This is something I know basically nothing about. I mean I loved to watch the Kentucky Derby races and races in the UK on TV (sometimes for the race but let's be honest, I watched for the big hat fashions). I had never understood the culture and the work that goes into this whole world. It is a tradition that goes back hundreds of years but all I know is what the TV shows me. Getting an insider’s view, and a female perspective at that, makes this story fantastic. You see the beauty and the dark side of this sport. It was interesting to see what goes into racing and what the jockeys are required to do. I loved watching Tessa find her place and embrace the challenges in her profession. It is hard and scary but the reward and satisfaction outweighed it all.
Another of my favorite parts of this book is Tessa herself. This book circles around her quite a bit. When the book is in the present day and we see her as a jockey you cannot help but admire her determination. This girl is sassy. Her personality is saturated with confidence, swagger, and resolve. Yet there are also moments of frustration, anger, and annoyance. This girl is a fantastic New Adult character. She is unapologetically who she is, despite her families worries, and she embraces the challenges ahead. She longs to realize her dreams and win. Tessa’s internal dialogue is one of the my favorite things in this book. She is snarky and feisty. Her reactions make me laugh out loud. She is real and at times broken. I loved how she is who she is and nothing will stand in her way.
The romance in this story was a bit different. I love a story in which friends fall in love but this one is more. At the beginning of the book, the story is in Jace’s POV as Tessa is born and grows up. It was endearing to watch them throughout the years: to see their friendship grow and become a solid foundation for what would come years later. Jace is her protector and her friend. Tessa is always keeping Jace on his toes. When they both grow up there is a moment when a lifelong crush on Tessa’s end becomes more causing a spark in Jace, which results in something more happening between them. There is so much history intertwined with these two that you cannot truly have one without the other. No matter how long they would go without seeing one another, they came back to that place and kept moving forward, solidifying their deep friendship as it grows into a romantic one. I loved how you see their history and how it enriches the present love story. They are perfect for each other. Age, life choices, and geography cannot keep them apart and that is beautiful. I was a bit hesitant about them falling in love when she was a good few years younger, but Foss does a great job of maturing their relationship as they go, allowing them to be what is needed throughout the years.
The more I read by CM Foss, the more I want! This book deals with realities and romance in a fun and original setting. Jock gives the reader a story to fall in love with and characters to applaud. I am excited to see what happens next and hope for a spin off in this series for a few of the characters introduced. There is a lot of potential for so much more in the jockey world!
November 3, 2015
5 shining stars for Jock!!
I more than loved this book!! Coming from a horse background myself, I was easily transported to the scenes that were beautifully written by one very talented author! CM Foss has a poetically sound writing style that flawlessly flows making me read this book in one sitting! It was un-putdown-able!!
The characters are terrific and were extremely likable. Tessa with her hard-working attitude and dreams within her reach. She’s a down-to-earth girl and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty! She had a feisty attitude and the banter between her and Jace was fantastic! Jace had fierce loyalty and owned a self-made security business. The fact that Jace was a long-time best friend of Tessa’s brother only makes things a bit more interesting! The chemistry and magnetism between these two is HOT! And the banter they share is hysterical!!
Tessa is one tough cookie. To work and do well in a predominantly men’s business is hard. She’s determined to make a go and be successful being a jockey. One of her brothers had pushed her to go for her dreams and wanted to be sure she saw it through. She’s young and makes some mistakes but she finally gets the training’ she needs from an unlikely source and rest… you’ll have to read!
Jace was a determined man. He never gives up. Neither Jace nor Tessa really knew how to work their relationship but Jace never gave up trying. He moves mountains for her and to me, that’s sexy as hell! The ‘gift’ that finally comes to her attention is all because of Jace. So freaking sweet I couldn’t stand it! Jace has definitely earned a spot as one of my book boyfriends!!
There were so many ‘feels’ in this book! I swooned, I cried, I laughed. But that was only the beginning! There were times throughout this book that I literally ached for Tessa and Jace. I ached for their loss. I ached for their friendship. And I ached for their relationship. I could feel the hesitancy in both their minds regarding how far they had allowed things between them to go. But all the while I just knew that they’d always belong to each other.
I more than loved this book!! Coming from a horse background myself, I was easily transported to the scenes that were beautifully written by one very talented author! CM Foss has a poetically sound writing style that flawlessly flows making me read this book in one sitting! It was un-putdown-able!!
The characters are terrific and were extremely likable. Tessa with her hard-working attitude and dreams within her reach. She’s a down-to-earth girl and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty! She had a feisty attitude and the banter between her and Jace was fantastic! Jace had fierce loyalty and owned a self-made security business. The fact that Jace was a long-time best friend of Tessa’s brother only makes things a bit more interesting! The chemistry and magnetism between these two is HOT! And the banter they share is hysterical!!
“Are we done fighting?”
“I don’t know. I’m still mad”
“Well, I’m still mad at you.”
“Why?”
“I don’t know. Because I feel like it.”
“I don’t get it.”
“Yeah, well, I don’t either.”
Tessa is one tough cookie. To work and do well in a predominantly men’s business is hard. She’s determined to make a go and be successful being a jockey. One of her brothers had pushed her to go for her dreams and wanted to be sure she saw it through. She’s young and makes some mistakes but she finally gets the training’ she needs from an unlikely source and rest… you’ll have to read!
“He’s the reason I’m out there, busting my ass. He was the one who pushed me to go for my dreams.”
Jace was a determined man. He never gives up. Neither Jace nor Tessa really knew how to work their relationship but Jace never gave up trying. He moves mountains for her and to me, that’s sexy as hell! The ‘gift’ that finally comes to her attention is all because of Jace. So freaking sweet I couldn’t stand it! Jace has definitely earned a spot as one of my book boyfriends!!
“You’re beautiful. And smart. And quick. I respect you more than you know… I want to be with you. I want to actually date you, not just talk about it. I want to go to dinner at your parents’ house and… and hold your hand.”
There were so many ‘feels’ in this book! I swooned, I cried, I laughed. But that was only the beginning! There were times throughout this book that I literally ached for Tessa and Jace. I ached for their loss. I ached for their friendship. And I ached for their relationship. I could feel the hesitancy in both their minds regarding how far they had allowed things between them to go. But all the while I just knew that they’d always belong to each other.
November 7, 2015
4.5-5 stars
This book isn't one of my normal reads. To be honest... Anything that has to do with horses.... I try to say away from. (Just not my thing)
But I took a chance on this book because I really liked how this book was described in the blurb.
I'm so glad I took the chance!
I saw a documentary on HBO a while ago about the life of a Jockey. And after reading this book. This author pretty much just nailed it. All the struggles a Jockey goes through trying to make a name for themselves. And the 2 real problems that Jockeys face everyday. The struggle with their weight. And what all that entails trying to maintain weight.
It was heartbreaking reading it.
This book I felt had the perfect balance. It wasn't all about the horses (which I thought would play a big role). It was about a girl trying to prove herself in this profession.
And really... Trying to find a balance with everything.... Work, Family, friends, food, and a relationship.
And her struggle to stay on top. She made, many sacrifices to get to where she was in her career. Making everything else fall to the waist side.
Tessa was the youngest of six kids. She was the wild child. She knew what she wanted it seemed right from the beginning.
Her character I had mixed feelings. She was kind of cold. It was her way or no way. And everyone had to just deal with it....
Jace was the best friend of Tessa's older brother Lawrence. Jace was an only child and spent lots of his time over at Lawrence's house. So he was considered an honorary member of their family.
They pretty much looked after Tessa since birth.
The relationship between Tessa and Jace took some time... But I felt once they got things started... Tessa kind of freaked out about it all and just overall felt overwhelmed with it.
That's when I felt the book plateaued for me.
I was hoping for a little more from them... But in the end it all seemed to work out. I was really happy with how it ended.
All of Tessa family members I loved. They brought a lot to the book but didn't over take it. All the horse lingo wasn't over the top in this book. It actually made want to go to a race track to check out a race!..lol
I could just kick myself for having never been to a race before! I use to live not that far from the Santa Anita race track. And not once did I ever go to a race!
Now I live close to the Del Mar Race Track... I think I'm going to have to make a trip & check it all out!
Overall... This was a good read! I loved how the book just flowed for me. I will definitely check out other books by this author.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account)
This book isn't one of my normal reads. To be honest... Anything that has to do with horses.... I try to say away from. (Just not my thing)
But I took a chance on this book because I really liked how this book was described in the blurb.
I'm so glad I took the chance!
I saw a documentary on HBO a while ago about the life of a Jockey. And after reading this book. This author pretty much just nailed it. All the struggles a Jockey goes through trying to make a name for themselves. And the 2 real problems that Jockeys face everyday. The struggle with their weight. And what all that entails trying to maintain weight.
It was heartbreaking reading it.
This book I felt had the perfect balance. It wasn't all about the horses (which I thought would play a big role). It was about a girl trying to prove herself in this profession.
And really... Trying to find a balance with everything.... Work, Family, friends, food, and a relationship.
And her struggle to stay on top. She made, many sacrifices to get to where she was in her career. Making everything else fall to the waist side.
Tessa was the youngest of six kids. She was the wild child. She knew what she wanted it seemed right from the beginning.
Her character I had mixed feelings. She was kind of cold. It was her way or no way. And everyone had to just deal with it....
Jace was the best friend of Tessa's older brother Lawrence. Jace was an only child and spent lots of his time over at Lawrence's house. So he was considered an honorary member of their family.
They pretty much looked after Tessa since birth.
The relationship between Tessa and Jace took some time... But I felt once they got things started... Tessa kind of freaked out about it all and just overall felt overwhelmed with it.
That's when I felt the book plateaued for me.
I was hoping for a little more from them... But in the end it all seemed to work out. I was really happy with how it ended.
All of Tessa family members I loved. They brought a lot to the book but didn't over take it. All the horse lingo wasn't over the top in this book. It actually made want to go to a race track to check out a race!..lol
I could just kick myself for having never been to a race before! I use to live not that far from the Santa Anita race track. And not once did I ever go to a race!
Now I live close to the Del Mar Race Track... I think I'm going to have to make a trip & check it all out!
Overall... This was a good read! I loved how the book just flowed for me. I will definitely check out other books by this author.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
(This same review is on my blog Goodreads account)
November 6, 2015
Two (among many) reasons I enjoy reading a CM Foss book: 1. I know what I’m going to get. 2. I don’t know what I’m going to get. Yes, I realize this doesn’t make much sense; but it’s this contradiction that always gets me excited when I hear she has a new book releasing. I know that I will get a heartwarming story, swoonworthy romance, moments of unexpected poignancy, one liners that have me laughing out loud and realistic tension for the main characters. What I don’t know is how the story will be presented within the parameters of those hallmarks of her stories and that makes diving in to one of her books all the more enjoyable.
With Jock, CM gives us the story of Tessa and Jace (Tessa’s brother’s best friend since childhood). The beginning of the novel is set up in flashbacks from Jace’s point of view, laying the foundation for their eventual relationship. As the action moves to the present, narration is handed over to Tessa. Through her, we see the journey from friends to lovers unfold; however, it’s not a slow blossoming as one might expect from characters who have known each other almost their entire lives. Rather, the transition comes on hard, fast, and with little warning. Romance strikes like a lightning bolt or an exploding firework, leaving Tessa and Jace to figure out how to regain their footing amid outside constraints (namely Tessa’s demanding career as a jockey) that threaten to implode the coupling as quickly as it had formed.
CM’s storytelling never fails to draw me in and hold my interest from the first page. Her books always feel fresh to me and I think this is due, in part, to the fact that she deals in settings that aren’t common backdrops for romances. As much as I enjoy them, it’s a great change of pace to ditch the college campus and the boardroom for the novelty of the horse track. She did a fantastic job laying out the struggle for balance and identity faced by Tessa and Jace as they navigated the changing dynamics of their relationship. Stories that rely on natural conflict always resonate more with me than those with far-reaching plot twists and the growth experienced by the characters as they strive to reach a happy medium with independence and protection is extremely relatable. Substantive and satisfying, Jock is definitely one to add to your friends to lovers TBR!
On a side note, I had mentioned in my Swoon review that I would have loved to have seen a flashback scene with Lawrence and Shane and I want to say how happy I was to find that in Jock. I know CM did not include it expressly for me, but I’m going to pretend that she did. ;)
Reader was given an ARC for review.
With Jock, CM gives us the story of Tessa and Jace (Tessa’s brother’s best friend since childhood). The beginning of the novel is set up in flashbacks from Jace’s point of view, laying the foundation for their eventual relationship. As the action moves to the present, narration is handed over to Tessa. Through her, we see the journey from friends to lovers unfold; however, it’s not a slow blossoming as one might expect from characters who have known each other almost their entire lives. Rather, the transition comes on hard, fast, and with little warning. Romance strikes like a lightning bolt or an exploding firework, leaving Tessa and Jace to figure out how to regain their footing amid outside constraints (namely Tessa’s demanding career as a jockey) that threaten to implode the coupling as quickly as it had formed.
CM’s storytelling never fails to draw me in and hold my interest from the first page. Her books always feel fresh to me and I think this is due, in part, to the fact that she deals in settings that aren’t common backdrops for romances. As much as I enjoy them, it’s a great change of pace to ditch the college campus and the boardroom for the novelty of the horse track. She did a fantastic job laying out the struggle for balance and identity faced by Tessa and Jace as they navigated the changing dynamics of their relationship. Stories that rely on natural conflict always resonate more with me than those with far-reaching plot twists and the growth experienced by the characters as they strive to reach a happy medium with independence and protection is extremely relatable. Substantive and satisfying, Jock is definitely one to add to your friends to lovers TBR!
On a side note, I had mentioned in my Swoon review that I would have loved to have seen a flashback scene with Lawrence and Shane and I want to say how happy I was to find that in Jock. I know CM did not include it expressly for me, but I’m going to pretend that she did. ;)
Reader was given an ARC for review.
November 7, 2015
4.5-5 stars
This book isn't one of my normal reads. To be honest... Anything that has to do with horses.... I try to say away from. (Just not my thing)
But I took a chance on this book because I really liked how this book was described in the blurb.
I'm so glad I took the chance!
I saw a documentary on HBO a while ago about the life of a Jockey. And after reading this book. This author pretty much just nailed it. All the struggles a Jockey goes through trying to make a name for themselves. And the 2 real problems that Jockeys face everyday. The struggle with their weight. And what all that entails trying to maintain weight.
It was heartbreaking reading it.
This book I felt had the perfect balance. It wasn't all about the horses (which I thought would play a big role). It was about a girl trying to prove herself in this profession.
And really... Trying to find a balance with everything.... Work, Family, friends, food, and a relationship.
And her struggle to stay on top. She made, many sacrifices to get to where she was in her career. Making everything else fall to the waist side.
Tessa was the youngest of six kids. She was the wild child. She knew what she wanted it seemed right from the beginning.
Her character I had mixed feelings. She was kind of cold. It was her way or no way. And everyone had to just deal with it....
Jace was the best friend of Tessa's older brother Lawrence. Jace was an only child and spent lots of his time over at Lawrence's house. So he was considered an honorary member of their family.
They pretty much looked after Tessa since birth.
The relationship between Tessa and Jace took some time... But I felt once they got things started... Tessa kind of freaked out about it all and just overall felt overwhelmed with it.
That's when I felt the book plateaued for me.
I was hoping for a little more from them... But in the end it all seemed to work out. I was really happy with how it ended.
All of Tessa family members I loved. They brought a lot to the book but didn't over take it. All the horse lingo wasn't over the top in this book. It actually made want to go to a race track to check out a race!..lol
I could just kick myself for having never been to a race before! I use to live not that far from the Santa Anita race track. And not once did I ever go to a race!
Now I live close to the Del Mar Race Track... I think I'm going to have to make a trip & check it all out!
Overall... This was a good read! I loved how the book just flowed for me. I will definitely check out other books by this author.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
- Michelle
This book isn't one of my normal reads. To be honest... Anything that has to do with horses.... I try to say away from. (Just not my thing)
But I took a chance on this book because I really liked how this book was described in the blurb.
I'm so glad I took the chance!
I saw a documentary on HBO a while ago about the life of a Jockey. And after reading this book. This author pretty much just nailed it. All the struggles a Jockey goes through trying to make a name for themselves. And the 2 real problems that Jockeys face everyday. The struggle with their weight. And what all that entails trying to maintain weight.
It was heartbreaking reading it.
This book I felt had the perfect balance. It wasn't all about the horses (which I thought would play a big role). It was about a girl trying to prove herself in this profession.
And really... Trying to find a balance with everything.... Work, Family, friends, food, and a relationship.
And her struggle to stay on top. She made, many sacrifices to get to where she was in her career. Making everything else fall to the waist side.
Tessa was the youngest of six kids. She was the wild child. She knew what she wanted it seemed right from the beginning.
Her character I had mixed feelings. She was kind of cold. It was her way or no way. And everyone had to just deal with it....
Jace was the best friend of Tessa's older brother Lawrence. Jace was an only child and spent lots of his time over at Lawrence's house. So he was considered an honorary member of their family.
They pretty much looked after Tessa since birth.
The relationship between Tessa and Jace took some time... But I felt once they got things started... Tessa kind of freaked out about it all and just overall felt overwhelmed with it.
That's when I felt the book plateaued for me.
I was hoping for a little more from them... But in the end it all seemed to work out. I was really happy with how it ended.
All of Tessa family members I loved. They brought a lot to the book but didn't over take it. All the horse lingo wasn't over the top in this book. It actually made want to go to a race track to check out a race!..lol
I could just kick myself for having never been to a race before! I use to live not that far from the Santa Anita race track. And not once did I ever go to a race!
Now I live close to the Del Mar Race Track... I think I'm going to have to make a trip & check it all out!
Overall... This was a good read! I loved how the book just flowed for me. I will definitely check out other books by this author.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
- Michelle
December 28, 2015
I have to say that before I started this book I knew nothing about jockeys, or horses for that matter. I mean who hasn’t heard of the Kentucky Derby but if we are all honest, or at least I am, I just want to attend so I can buy myself one of those cool hats. But then this book fell into my hands, and I see it as so much more. Here was my take on it.
CLICHES
She can't stand them.
Hates them.
Refuses to be one.
But...
Tessa Brooks- this little chick is a fire storm. And When I say little I’m not making fun of her, I’m a munchkin myself. Not only is she a whopping 5’3, she is strong-willed, sassy, and determined to not let anyone stand in the way of her and her dream. You would not believe what her dream is, she wants to enter the sport of horse racing. The highly dominated by men and testosterone sport.
She does what she needs to do in order to be taken seriously. At times in the book I thought she was just a little too hard on herself. But if you want to be the best you have to train with the best. And does she ever train, who knew that so much work goes into riding a horse??
It’s not to say that she doesn’t do anything extra-curricular. She still gets to tangle the sheets with none other than Jace Hitchen, her brother's best friend.
Jace has been in their household since forever. Even being there on the day she came home from the hospital. Jace made the ultimate promise to her mom, he vowed always take care of her. What starts out as him always protecting her, annoying her, being her confidant and all around best friend, turns into love. She feels it first, he just needed to be told.
I didn’t want to. Or I did want to. I don’t know, but I turned, one step at a time, until we were face-to-face. Well, kind of. Face to chest. I tilted my head back so I could look into his face. His expression was searching but otherwise unreadable. He lifted his hand, cupping my jaw in his palm. I leaned into his touch, afraid of what was next and yet dying to know.
So now they have made it to the point that there is no going back, there is only going forward. The question is how will Jace handle her extreme devotion to becoming the best woman in a man’s sport? How will he take the way she pushes herself? Will he be that protector he promised to be or will it be too much for him to handle? Either way she is determined to be the Jock!
I fell in love with this couple. I loved their struggle because it was real. It’s a love story but it’s also a story about acceptance and support. Accepting that she will be the strong willed woman and supporting her through the extreme training that she does.
CLICHES
She can't stand them.
Hates them.
Refuses to be one.
But...
Tessa Brooks- this little chick is a fire storm. And When I say little I’m not making fun of her, I’m a munchkin myself. Not only is she a whopping 5’3, she is strong-willed, sassy, and determined to not let anyone stand in the way of her and her dream. You would not believe what her dream is, she wants to enter the sport of horse racing. The highly dominated by men and testosterone sport.
She does what she needs to do in order to be taken seriously. At times in the book I thought she was just a little too hard on herself. But if you want to be the best you have to train with the best. And does she ever train, who knew that so much work goes into riding a horse??
It’s not to say that she doesn’t do anything extra-curricular. She still gets to tangle the sheets with none other than Jace Hitchen, her brother's best friend.
Jace has been in their household since forever. Even being there on the day she came home from the hospital. Jace made the ultimate promise to her mom, he vowed always take care of her. What starts out as him always protecting her, annoying her, being her confidant and all around best friend, turns into love. She feels it first, he just needed to be told.
I didn’t want to. Or I did want to. I don’t know, but I turned, one step at a time, until we were face-to-face. Well, kind of. Face to chest. I tilted my head back so I could look into his face. His expression was searching but otherwise unreadable. He lifted his hand, cupping my jaw in his palm. I leaned into his touch, afraid of what was next and yet dying to know.
So now they have made it to the point that there is no going back, there is only going forward. The question is how will Jace handle her extreme devotion to becoming the best woman in a man’s sport? How will he take the way she pushes herself? Will he be that protector he promised to be or will it be too much for him to handle? Either way she is determined to be the Jock!
I fell in love with this couple. I loved their struggle because it was real. It’s a love story but it’s also a story about acceptance and support. Accepting that she will be the strong willed woman and supporting her through the extreme training that she does.
October 23, 2015
Jock by C.M. Foss is a book about a girl struggling to make a name for herself in a world that is dominated by men, being a horse jockey. The youngest of a large close knit family, Tessa struggles to make a name for herself, despite the lack of support she feels that she receives. Being the youngest means that everyone tries to look out for her and protect her, but Tessa doesn't need their protection, she is feisty and can hold her own in almost any given situation with her quick wit and determination. This book is a 3.5 star read for me and I would recommend it to others.
Tessa or Midge as she is referred to by the members of her family due to her pint size, is determined to make a name for herself in the jockey world. Growing up around horses, being a girl jockey has been a dream, a dream that her brother Shane supported whole heartedly and she throws herself into training and racing with a determination that most people only wish they have. Putting in long hours at the track, training the horses, racing and watching her weight are all things Tessa must to do be successful, and it often comes at the expense of her relationships with her family and friends.
Jace has been in Tessa's life since the day she was born, being the best friend to her brother Lawrence. When her mother asks him to protect her, since she is the youngest, Jace accepts this challenge like he has accepted everything else in his life, with a dedication that most don't have. As Tessa begins to grow up, the feelings that Jace has for her change, from a brotherly love to a romantic one. But with the way that Tessa spreads herself thin, to try and make everyone happy while trying to achieve her dreams, there isn't much room in her life for him.
Once Tessa and Jace cross the line from friends to lovers all bets are off, and the dreams that Tessa has seem to be slipping through her fingers as her thoughts become consumed with the man that she has crushed on her entire life. She doesn't have time to date, and she needs someone who will support her dreams not try to protect her from them. Walking away from Jace may be the only way for her dreams to come true...or is it? You will have to read to find out.
Tessa or Midge as she is referred to by the members of her family due to her pint size, is determined to make a name for herself in the jockey world. Growing up around horses, being a girl jockey has been a dream, a dream that her brother Shane supported whole heartedly and she throws herself into training and racing with a determination that most people only wish they have. Putting in long hours at the track, training the horses, racing and watching her weight are all things Tessa must to do be successful, and it often comes at the expense of her relationships with her family and friends.
Jace has been in Tessa's life since the day she was born, being the best friend to her brother Lawrence. When her mother asks him to protect her, since she is the youngest, Jace accepts this challenge like he has accepted everything else in his life, with a dedication that most don't have. As Tessa begins to grow up, the feelings that Jace has for her change, from a brotherly love to a romantic one. But with the way that Tessa spreads herself thin, to try and make everyone happy while trying to achieve her dreams, there isn't much room in her life for him.
Once Tessa and Jace cross the line from friends to lovers all bets are off, and the dreams that Tessa has seem to be slipping through her fingers as her thoughts become consumed with the man that she has crushed on her entire life. She doesn't have time to date, and she needs someone who will support her dreams not try to protect her from them. Walking away from Jace may be the only way for her dreams to come true...or is it? You will have to read to find out.
November 6, 2015
This is the first book I’ve read by C. M. Foss and I was pleasantly surprised by it. I was reticent to start it, but once I delved into this world I couldn’t stop reading ***I finished the epilogue while walking to the gym, that’s how much I enjoyed it.
Front the first page the author captured my attention – you meet a young Jace getting to see baby Tessa for the first time. You get to see how they are with each other growing up, how they feel about one another and you cannot love the ‘puppy’ crush they share. What was different about this part of the book than all the previous books I’ve read before was that it was all told from Jace’s POV – Tessa didn’t instantly become a temptation, you could tell by the end of the book that their love had nothing to do with hot ‘hot’ she was but with how attracted they were to each other emotionally.
When the POV switches to Tessa, I got to see her side of the story and I got to fall in love with her even more than I already was. She’s one incredible heroine – to honor her dead brother, she’s trying her hardest to make it in a male dominated sport that is horse racing in order to get a chance to compete in the derby. Her attraction to Jace is felt not through phrases that describe how amazingly good looking he is, but through emotional heart felt moments – they complement each other beautifully and it’s impossible not to empathize with them.
And I have to praise this author capability to make me enjoy the sexy scenes in this book – if you’re looking for smut this isn’t it, but if you’re looking for wonderful sensual scenes, than, man oh man, there are plenty. Her capacity to take a sex scene and turn it into one of the most romantic, heart felt scenes I’ve read in the last couple of months is off the charts and to do this takes a lot of talent and C. M. Foss seems to possess tons.
I recommend Jock to anyone looking for a friends-to-lovers story, with a great heroine and an incredibly sweet hero, both of whom have their own dreams and goals, who in the end realize the only way to be truly happy with someone is to compromise even if that means making the other one just a little bit happier than you are.
***ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Front the first page the author captured my attention – you meet a young Jace getting to see baby Tessa for the first time. You get to see how they are with each other growing up, how they feel about one another and you cannot love the ‘puppy’ crush they share. What was different about this part of the book than all the previous books I’ve read before was that it was all told from Jace’s POV – Tessa didn’t instantly become a temptation, you could tell by the end of the book that their love had nothing to do with hot ‘hot’ she was but with how attracted they were to each other emotionally.
When the POV switches to Tessa, I got to see her side of the story and I got to fall in love with her even more than I already was. She’s one incredible heroine – to honor her dead brother, she’s trying her hardest to make it in a male dominated sport that is horse racing in order to get a chance to compete in the derby. Her attraction to Jace is felt not through phrases that describe how amazingly good looking he is, but through emotional heart felt moments – they complement each other beautifully and it’s impossible not to empathize with them.
And I have to praise this author capability to make me enjoy the sexy scenes in this book – if you’re looking for smut this isn’t it, but if you’re looking for wonderful sensual scenes, than, man oh man, there are plenty. Her capacity to take a sex scene and turn it into one of the most romantic, heart felt scenes I’ve read in the last couple of months is off the charts and to do this takes a lot of talent and C. M. Foss seems to possess tons.
I recommend Jock to anyone looking for a friends-to-lovers story, with a great heroine and an incredibly sweet hero, both of whom have their own dreams and goals, who in the end realize the only way to be truly happy with someone is to compromise even if that means making the other one just a little bit happier than you are.
***ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2015
Having read this author before it was a no brainer to sign on for this tour ! I have enjoyed her writing , the way she pulls you in and the uniqueness to her story lines. I am not familiar with anything horse so the whole jockey job was an eye opener for me. WOW it is a crazy world and I was shocked and horrified with all that goes into being fit for racing. BUT knowing that Tessa was pushing herself to be this made it easier to read and accept the challenges she placed on her body, had there been someone pushing her to do this to herself I may have had some issues !! Either way I enjoyed the story , I enjoyed learning the world of racing/jockeying , I enjoyed learning how Tessa and Jace grew from friends to much more and I enjoyed the ending and the HEA and joy I felt for the characters.
The opening , WOW how sweet and swoon-worthy is that scene. I just melted and immediately fell in love with Jace and what would become the story of Tessa and Jace. Though this book is about so much more than that I knew with this childhood and family connection I would be invested. There may have been an age difference between them and yes they may have grown up with Jace being a protector almost brother like to Tessa but there was a clear time and place where all that changed and you knew it would. I enjoyed being in Tessa's head and if we hadn't had her POV I would not have understood her drive and sacrifice at all. I love male POV but again was happy to connect with Tessa and attempt to see things her way. Of course with Jace being who he was I wanted to smack her a few times, she was a mess at times and it sucked that she had to work hard to make her family and loved ones understand her goals. In the end she finally had a breakthrough not only getting the understanding of family and loved ones but also from herself allowing her to enjoy life and let herself love and be happy and have it all !! There were some seriously HOT scenes and I loved the " her brother's BFF " issues that came up. Happy to have read this and look forward to more from this author.
The opening , WOW how sweet and swoon-worthy is that scene. I just melted and immediately fell in love with Jace and what would become the story of Tessa and Jace. Though this book is about so much more than that I knew with this childhood and family connection I would be invested. There may have been an age difference between them and yes they may have grown up with Jace being a protector almost brother like to Tessa but there was a clear time and place where all that changed and you knew it would. I enjoyed being in Tessa's head and if we hadn't had her POV I would not have understood her drive and sacrifice at all. I love male POV but again was happy to connect with Tessa and attempt to see things her way. Of course with Jace being who he was I wanted to smack her a few times, she was a mess at times and it sucked that she had to work hard to make her family and loved ones understand her goals. In the end she finally had a breakthrough not only getting the understanding of family and loved ones but also from herself allowing her to enjoy life and let herself love and be happy and have it all !! There were some seriously HOT scenes and I loved the " her brother's BFF " issues that came up. Happy to have read this and look forward to more from this author.
November 5, 2015
**MEGAN'S REVIEW**
I enjoyed the sum of this story. As a whole and complete in one lump thought it was a sweet story. When I begin to pick it apart piece by piece it is quite difficult to pull the love out of it.
At the start, you are quickly pulled through the years from when Tessa is a newborn and Jace is super young. Once I really became interested in the way it was swiftly told it changed- completely. The structure and the point of view. Now, all her. It wasn’t so choppy with the date changes, it was now. Once I was in Tessa’s head, at first completely excited to jump into her thoughts, especially, after what Jace left me with, my excitement hastily changed to calmness.
I brushed my thumb over her callused knuckles, and she pulled away.
“They’re gross.”
“Are not.”
“Are too.”
They fought like siblings and from being around each other since Tessa was born it makes sense. I think seeing their connection more would have really helped into the present as Tessa struggled to become what she wanted. All too quickly it went from nothing there to something there. To immediate “Now I woo you,”
With the appropriate title this was so much more that a love story. I don’t have a horse background so the lingo definitely hindered my enthusiasm I had started with. Tess was strong and wanted what she wanted and wasn’t going to fail. It made no difference male or female, she was going to succeed. I liked that about her. I like her go get it attitude.
I would have love to have stayed in Jace’s POV, while their past years told with more depth and especially in the present time. I just didn’t feel this one as much as Tess felt for her ride. But, I did have a favorite part and sadly I can’t tell you much about it because it would give too much away. Just know that feeling, the sentiment, the air around I was grinning. THAT is what I enjoyed while reading.
“Because she’s mine, and I watch over what’s mine.”
“I’m in there all the time.”
“You’re mine too.”
I enjoyed the sum of this story. As a whole and complete in one lump thought it was a sweet story. When I begin to pick it apart piece by piece it is quite difficult to pull the love out of it.
At the start, you are quickly pulled through the years from when Tessa is a newborn and Jace is super young. Once I really became interested in the way it was swiftly told it changed- completely. The structure and the point of view. Now, all her. It wasn’t so choppy with the date changes, it was now. Once I was in Tessa’s head, at first completely excited to jump into her thoughts, especially, after what Jace left me with, my excitement hastily changed to calmness.
I brushed my thumb over her callused knuckles, and she pulled away.
“They’re gross.”
“Are not.”
“Are too.”
They fought like siblings and from being around each other since Tessa was born it makes sense. I think seeing their connection more would have really helped into the present as Tessa struggled to become what she wanted. All too quickly it went from nothing there to something there. To immediate “Now I woo you,”
With the appropriate title this was so much more that a love story. I don’t have a horse background so the lingo definitely hindered my enthusiasm I had started with. Tess was strong and wanted what she wanted and wasn’t going to fail. It made no difference male or female, she was going to succeed. I liked that about her. I like her go get it attitude.
I would have love to have stayed in Jace’s POV, while their past years told with more depth and especially in the present time. I just didn’t feel this one as much as Tess felt for her ride. But, I did have a favorite part and sadly I can’t tell you much about it because it would give too much away. Just know that feeling, the sentiment, the air around I was grinning. THAT is what I enjoyed while reading.
“Because she’s mine, and I watch over what’s mine.”
“I’m in there all the time.”
“You’re mine too.”
May 24, 2016
One of the things I love about this series is it's real people falling in love, the highs and lows of love between the H/h, and not just the couple but the ripple effect of the love and relationships between friends and family. How the hardships of life, even the good times, drive us, mold and shape us, bring us together as much as tear us apart. Foss makes it so easy to fall in love with these characters. I loved seeing Lawrence as a young man, who we met in Shiver and Swoon. Even Lawrence's brother Shane appeared in Jock. He had only been mentioned in Swoon but had left his mark. In Jock, the impact of his relationship with his siblings and parents leaves a longer lasting impression on the reader.
Jock is focused on Tessa Brooks, Lawrence's baby sister, and Jace Hitchen, her big brother's best friend and surrogate protector. Growing up around horses, strong and fierce, Tessa dreamed of being a Jockey. A dream she worked hard every day to make come true. Jace grew up watching Tessa, a fiesty little trouble maker, who he always had a strong need to protect. Slowly, and naturally, friendship turned to something more. These two were so cute together. Tessa doing her best to keep things casual as she focused on riding and trying to balance all the people in her life, and Jace making it more than clear they were no longer just friends...or casual. As the pressure to succeed in her field and balance all the things in her life weigh heavy, the couple is challenged to figure out how to make things work.
Foss has a natural ability to bring relatable emotion to the characters and story. It draws you in. It makes you laugh, it makes you cry, it makes you want to sit at family dinner and share in the crazy. Personally, I would suggest reading Shiver and Swoon first. There are little details in the story that come from those books that would be spoiler-ish if you haven't read them. I'm so excited to keep going with these characters. They are becoming some of my favorites.
Jock is focused on Tessa Brooks, Lawrence's baby sister, and Jace Hitchen, her big brother's best friend and surrogate protector. Growing up around horses, strong and fierce, Tessa dreamed of being a Jockey. A dream she worked hard every day to make come true. Jace grew up watching Tessa, a fiesty little trouble maker, who he always had a strong need to protect. Slowly, and naturally, friendship turned to something more. These two were so cute together. Tessa doing her best to keep things casual as she focused on riding and trying to balance all the people in her life, and Jace making it more than clear they were no longer just friends...or casual. As the pressure to succeed in her field and balance all the things in her life weigh heavy, the couple is challenged to figure out how to make things work.
Foss has a natural ability to bring relatable emotion to the characters and story. It draws you in. It makes you laugh, it makes you cry, it makes you want to sit at family dinner and share in the crazy. Personally, I would suggest reading Shiver and Swoon first. There are little details in the story that come from those books that would be spoiler-ish if you haven't read them. I'm so excited to keep going with these characters. They are becoming some of my favorites.
July 10, 2016
Tessa Brooks and Jace Hitchens grew up together, specifically Jace is Tessa's older brother, Lawrence's, best friend. Jace has always looked out for Tessa because she's very free spirited, determined and stubborn. If Tessa sets her mind to do something, she will do it, no one can stop her. She wants to be a professional jockey, and growing up on a horse farm, Tessa is very familiar with riding and the dangers associated with it.
Jace has a much more laidback approach to life, but Tessa and Lawrence's family is his family, too. Jace has been there for all of Tessa's important life events and as a friend, he naturally wants to keep her safe. He and Tessa's family worry about her well-being.
Tessa gives the reader a good glimpse of jockey lifestyle - the pressure, the competition and the necessity of maintaining a specific weight. Tessa is a tough girl, she doesn't talk about her feelings or get overly emotional. Even though she has an undeniable attraction to Jace that has only grown over the years, she can't afford any distractions or a relationship. If anything, she steers clear of them although Jace is now ready for one with her.
I liked that the story focused on Tessa pursuing her dreams and ambitions. She wouldn't let anyone deter her from her goals and Jace had to accept the whole package of Tessa, including the risks, long hours and travel with her job. Jace isn't the sort of guy to tell someone how to live, but he doesn't like to see Tessa suffer or become injured. But like with any relationship, they must learn to navigate these obstacles if they want to have a chance at a future together. Jockey life isn't for everyone. The backdrop of the story setting in Kentucky and the portrayal of southern hospitality was also a nice feature.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Jace has a much more laidback approach to life, but Tessa and Lawrence's family is his family, too. Jace has been there for all of Tessa's important life events and as a friend, he naturally wants to keep her safe. He and Tessa's family worry about her well-being.
Tessa gives the reader a good glimpse of jockey lifestyle - the pressure, the competition and the necessity of maintaining a specific weight. Tessa is a tough girl, she doesn't talk about her feelings or get overly emotional. Even though she has an undeniable attraction to Jace that has only grown over the years, she can't afford any distractions or a relationship. If anything, she steers clear of them although Jace is now ready for one with her.
I liked that the story focused on Tessa pursuing her dreams and ambitions. She wouldn't let anyone deter her from her goals and Jace had to accept the whole package of Tessa, including the risks, long hours and travel with her job. Jace isn't the sort of guy to tell someone how to live, but he doesn't like to see Tessa suffer or become injured. But like with any relationship, they must learn to navigate these obstacles if they want to have a chance at a future together. Jockey life isn't for everyone. The backdrop of the story setting in Kentucky and the portrayal of southern hospitality was also a nice feature.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
October 31, 2015
Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books
I sure am a sucker for the brother’s best friends books and this is one of the best I read. *sigh* And it had a vagina heartbeat – can’t get much better!
I have to be honest and say I was a little hesitant to read about horse racing. It has never interested me and I have never been on a horse, but I am a huge fan of the author as well as the other angle and I am so glad that I read it.
Jock is the story of Tessa, aka Midge. She has been fighting her whole life to be something different. She has always dreamed of being a jockey and with her small size it is the perfect job for her. Though it comes at a high cost.
“He doesn’t want to go. He wants to fight. He wants to matter. He doesn’t want to go. He just will. Because to fight and do things that matter, sometimes you have to go.”
Jace is Lawrence’s best friend, Tessa’s older brother. He is been around since she was born. He has been her protector, her savior, and her friend. Tessa has crushed on him for a long time and when Jace finally allowed himself to see her as a woman, it really opened his eyes.
“I wanted so much of her, all of her. I wanted to touch her and consume her, kiss her, make love to her…love her. Was it right? No. No, it wasn’t. But it definitely didn’t feel wrong either.”
I couldn’t put this story down. I had to know what was going to happen. I loved the entire cast of characters especially the Brooks Family! It also really enlightened me into the world of horse racing and how competitive a sport it is; how much a jockey goes through just to ride a horse. It was sweet, sad, funny, and steamy. This was another fantastic read from Ms. Foss! (4.5 stars)
I sure am a sucker for the brother’s best friends books and this is one of the best I read. *sigh* And it had a vagina heartbeat – can’t get much better!
I have to be honest and say I was a little hesitant to read about horse racing. It has never interested me and I have never been on a horse, but I am a huge fan of the author as well as the other angle and I am so glad that I read it.
Jock is the story of Tessa, aka Midge. She has been fighting her whole life to be something different. She has always dreamed of being a jockey and with her small size it is the perfect job for her. Though it comes at a high cost.
“He doesn’t want to go. He wants to fight. He wants to matter. He doesn’t want to go. He just will. Because to fight and do things that matter, sometimes you have to go.”
Jace is Lawrence’s best friend, Tessa’s older brother. He is been around since she was born. He has been her protector, her savior, and her friend. Tessa has crushed on him for a long time and when Jace finally allowed himself to see her as a woman, it really opened his eyes.
“I wanted so much of her, all of her. I wanted to touch her and consume her, kiss her, make love to her…love her. Was it right? No. No, it wasn’t. But it definitely didn’t feel wrong either.”
I couldn’t put this story down. I had to know what was going to happen. I loved the entire cast of characters especially the Brooks Family! It also really enlightened me into the world of horse racing and how competitive a sport it is; how much a jockey goes through just to ride a horse. It was sweet, sad, funny, and steamy. This was another fantastic read from Ms. Foss! (4.5 stars)
November 4, 2015
"Life is dirty. It's messy and unfair and painful. And the most beautiful things come out of it."
When I saw that C.M. Foss was releasing a female jockey story, I was 100% on board. Truth be told, my family used to own a percentage of a race horse (that ran in the Belmont Stakes). So this story, especially about the side of racing that most don't see, was something I couldn't wait to read.
Tessa and Jace have known each other since her birth. He is older than her and best friends with one of her brothers. It only seemed natural that he took on the role of her protector. Being the youngest in a large family means that Tessa was always trying to make a name for herself. After a life changing event, Tessa decides to go after her dream of being a jockey. She knows it'll be a tough road, but Tessa is even tougher.
I really enjoyed this story because it was just 'easy'. There wasn't any crazy conflict, no super dark secrets that make you want to throw your Kindle, it was just the story of Tessa coming into her own and finding love along the way. It gave great insight into the behind the scenes of being a female jockey in a profession ruled by men. Tessa broke down barriers and proved that she was doing exactly what she was meant to do.
I think my only small complaint (not really a complaint) would be that I wish there was more of a build up with Jace and Tessa. They went from being young and almost like brother and sister to all of a sudden they had a thing for each other.
I did love Jace and his easy going, flip flop wearing attitude. He helped ground Tessa and keep her from unraveling when her career got to be too much.
When I saw that C.M. Foss was releasing a female jockey story, I was 100% on board. Truth be told, my family used to own a percentage of a race horse (that ran in the Belmont Stakes). So this story, especially about the side of racing that most don't see, was something I couldn't wait to read.
Tessa and Jace have known each other since her birth. He is older than her and best friends with one of her brothers. It only seemed natural that he took on the role of her protector. Being the youngest in a large family means that Tessa was always trying to make a name for herself. After a life changing event, Tessa decides to go after her dream of being a jockey. She knows it'll be a tough road, but Tessa is even tougher.
I really enjoyed this story because it was just 'easy'. There wasn't any crazy conflict, no super dark secrets that make you want to throw your Kindle, it was just the story of Tessa coming into her own and finding love along the way. It gave great insight into the behind the scenes of being a female jockey in a profession ruled by men. Tessa broke down barriers and proved that she was doing exactly what she was meant to do.
I think my only small complaint (not really a complaint) would be that I wish there was more of a build up with Jace and Tessa. They went from being young and almost like brother and sister to all of a sudden they had a thing for each other.
I did love Jace and his easy going, flip flop wearing attitude. He helped ground Tessa and keep her from unraveling when her career got to be too much.
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