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University Park #5
A Different Christmas
The final chapters in Raven and Lexi’s epic love story that began with Opposing Sides.
Having been through hell and back, Raven and Lexi beat the odds stacked against them and came out on the winning side together. For the past several months, Raven’s been working hard to show Lexi he can be the husband she deserves and the father their soon-to-be born twins need. Playing pro-football is proving to be more challenging than they thought.
As the weeks pass and her due date nears, old demons resurface, threatening to destroy what they’ve worked hard to rebuild. The birth of their twins reminds them despite long practice sessions, football games, and the holidays, what’s most important is the greatest gift of all: love.
**This novella takes place before the epilogue in The Winning Side and A Different Side. Standalone, but it is recommended you read the series.**
Having been through hell and back, Raven and Lexi beat the odds stacked against them and came out on the winning side together. For the past several months, Raven’s been working hard to show Lexi he can be the husband she deserves and the father their soon-to-be born twins need. Playing pro-football is proving to be more challenging than they thought.
As the weeks pass and her due date nears, old demons resurface, threatening to destroy what they’ve worked hard to rebuild. The birth of their twins reminds them despite long practice sessions, football games, and the holidays, what’s most important is the greatest gift of all: love.
**This novella takes place before the epilogue in The Winning Side and A Different Side. Standalone, but it is recommended you read the series.**
ebook
First published November 30, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 16, 2015
A Different Christmas. I was given the opportunity to read this review in exchange for a review. And it was so AMAZING. It was beautiful reading about Raven and Lexi again. I wasn't ready to let them go and it just made me so happy. A Different Christmas is written before the epilogue of The Winning Side and it allowed us to know of Lexi and Ravens journey throughout their pregnancy. This novella is about Raven redeeming himself with Lexi after his countless mistakes and leaving. How he was able to juggle playing football again and still being there for Lexi and their twins. And Lexi. Her fear of Raven returning to his old ways and basically hurting her all over again. Struggling to remain supportive of Raven and his football career so that he can look after their family. A Different Side is about finding balance with the love of your life, children and the career you've always wanted. Their journey hasn't been an easy one but its only strengthened their love. To have everything they've hoped for and enjoying the holiday as a family. I loved everything about this book. It was great meeting up with Lexi and Raven again. And yes, I'm still caught in #TheRavensTrap
November 18, 2015
5 CHRISTMAS STARS!!!!! A Different Christmas is a short novella (A Christmas Edition ) from UNIVERSITY PARK SERIES by Author C.M Doporto . This book is the final filler in Raven’s & Lexi’s life and the last missing piece of their puzzle, giving a perfect closure to this beautiful love story. It was really a cute, emotionally effusive and heart-melting story that will have you caught in “THE RAVEN’s TRAP” Once Again ! It gives you a glimpse of time, where Raven is working hard to prove his worth to everyone in his personal as well as professional life. Forgiveness is not easy and he is trying every possible thing to earn it.
Raven & Lexi's journey had been a rocky road, but they manage to salvage their love together defying all those who were against them. Lexi is pregnant with the twins and Raven is trying really hard to earn Lexi’s trust back. Also he had been granted one more chance to fulfil his dream of playing Pro-Football with New-Orleans Team. Knowing its his only chance to play-pro, he has to give his 100% to the team along with taking care of Lexi and twins. He is living his dream but things are not as easy as they seem. With the festivities around and help from his mother and grand-mother, Raven and Lexi are excited to welcome the twins in their life together. But Lexi still had not agreed to marry him !!!
Will she let go of her reserve and finally say yes to him ?
Will Raven let go of his demons and finally live his life with the loved ones?
To grab your copy of this cute christmas story click on the Pre-order link ➜http://amzn.to/1QN4QLZ
Book Releases November 30, 2015.
“Arc graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review”
November 19, 2015
I was given this book in conjunction with Momma Says Read Blog for an honest and unbiased review.
If I can even slightly express the incredible feeling this book left me with, I will be happy. This book was an emotionally beautiful read. I fell in love with these characters and was elated when I found out that they were getting a new novella. So much happens in this book. Keep your tissues close you will be needing them!
So im a sap the I was a little emotional reading this. There are 3 scenes that stand out as beautiful. I felt Raven’s pride and love for Lexi and his babies! I felt Lexi’s internal turmoil and was happy to finally see everything come together. Raven is a completely different person and goes to great lengths to be the man Lexi deserves. Their journey to happiness was paved with heartbreak and it was not an easy one. This gives you the exact moment where that changed. I am saddened by the fact Lexi and Raven's books have come to an end. I am suffering a serious book hangover and was emotionally exhausted after this. This was the best goodbye we could have been given.
If I can even slightly express the incredible feeling this book left me with, I will be happy. This book was an emotionally beautiful read. I fell in love with these characters and was elated when I found out that they were getting a new novella. So much happens in this book. Keep your tissues close you will be needing them!
So im a sap the I was a little emotional reading this. There are 3 scenes that stand out as beautiful. I felt Raven’s pride and love for Lexi and his babies! I felt Lexi’s internal turmoil and was happy to finally see everything come together. Raven is a completely different person and goes to great lengths to be the man Lexi deserves. Their journey to happiness was paved with heartbreak and it was not an easy one. This gives you the exact moment where that changed. I am saddened by the fact Lexi and Raven's books have come to an end. I am suffering a serious book hangover and was emotionally exhausted after this. This was the best goodbye we could have been given.
November 25, 2015
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
**This novella takes place before the epilogue in The Winning Side and A Different Side. Standalone, but it is recommended you read the series.**
A Difference Christmas follows the life of Raven and Lexi from the University Park series. From the first book, I fell in love with Lexi and Raven’s story. I was truly happy that CM Doporto wrote this novella. I wanted to know how Lexi and Raven made it down the aisle.
We get to read about their struggles during this period of their life. To read about Lexi's doubts, but also her love for Raven. Yet at the same time, we get to see the “new” Raven. The progress and goals he has been able to reach.
As you read along this book, you too, will fall in love with them all over again. I loved CM Doporto last scene in the novella, it made me tear up and join in the joy of their happily ever after story.
We do however, get to see Lexi and Raven again in Luke’s book!!!
I LOVED THIS STORY!!!
**This novella takes place before the epilogue in The Winning Side and A Different Side. Standalone, but it is recommended you read the series.**
A Difference Christmas follows the life of Raven and Lexi from the University Park series. From the first book, I fell in love with Lexi and Raven’s story. I was truly happy that CM Doporto wrote this novella. I wanted to know how Lexi and Raven made it down the aisle.
We get to read about their struggles during this period of their life. To read about Lexi's doubts, but also her love for Raven. Yet at the same time, we get to see the “new” Raven. The progress and goals he has been able to reach.
As you read along this book, you too, will fall in love with them all over again. I loved CM Doporto last scene in the novella, it made me tear up and join in the joy of their happily ever after story.
We do however, get to see Lexi and Raven again in Luke’s book!!!
I LOVED THIS STORY!!!
December 22, 2016
Dear Em
Hope you have liked my last postcard; this one is a little bit more seasonal.
You know how much I love American football right? So I found A different Christmas by C.M. Doporto.
It is a sweet, romantic story with the perfect touch of football, this handsome and ex troubled guy (aka Raven) found true love with an innocent and sweet girl, and now they are expecting babies.
On Christmas! Can you imagine? It’s so cool, it’s a short story so I will not spoil it for you, they have twins and live happy ever after? I hope so... You should read it!
It’s almost Christmas!! Happy Holidays! Hope to see you soon.
P.S. Would you like to bet on the Superbowl teams? Lol, love you.
Charlotte
Hope you have liked my last postcard; this one is a little bit more seasonal.
You know how much I love American football right? So I found A different Christmas by C.M. Doporto.
It is a sweet, romantic story with the perfect touch of football, this handsome and ex troubled guy (aka Raven) found true love with an innocent and sweet girl, and now they are expecting babies.
On Christmas! Can you imagine? It’s so cool, it’s a short story so I will not spoil it for you, they have twins and live happy ever after? I hope so... You should read it!
It’s almost Christmas!! Happy Holidays! Hope to see you soon.
P.S. Would you like to bet on the Superbowl teams? Lol, love you.
Charlotte
August 13, 2017
The novella was cute and I loved seeing how Raven and Lexi finally came together. I wish there was a tad bit more drama that really proved he was not going to screw up again, but it was still pretty tense with the football practices and Lexi's hormones.
All in all, I wish there was more groveling on Raven's part. I feel like Lexi let him get away with quite a bit and I didn't really see that much of how he "worked" towards "showing" her he wouldn't mess up again. Yeah, he was there, but nothing majorly bad happened that made him run away, like he would in the past so how can Lexi truly be sure that he wouldn't walk out again. I'm not convinced so I guess that's why I can't see how Lexi was convinced.
All in all, I wish there was more groveling on Raven's part. I feel like Lexi let him get away with quite a bit and I didn't really see that much of how he "worked" towards "showing" her he wouldn't mess up again. Yeah, he was there, but nothing majorly bad happened that made him run away, like he would in the past so how can Lexi truly be sure that he wouldn't walk out again. I'm not convinced so I guess that's why I can't see how Lexi was convinced.
October 21, 2018
A Different Christmas
Have I mentioned how much I love Raven and Lexi?? I love this look into them living together and preparing for the arrival of their babies. I loved seeing Raven work so hard to ensure Lexi fully trusted him. This series and this couple have made my heart so happy and I'm sad that it's over, but I've definitely enjoyed the ride!
Have I mentioned how much I love Raven and Lexi?? I love this look into them living together and preparing for the arrival of their babies. I loved seeing Raven work so hard to ensure Lexi fully trusted him. This series and this couple have made my heart so happy and I'm sad that it's over, but I've definitely enjoyed the ride!
February 6, 2019
this s
December 7, 2020
I really loved this series!
May 31, 2021
Brilliant
Another brilliant book gripped from the start I couldn't put it down well written and a great story line loved it
Another brilliant book gripped from the start I couldn't put it down well written and a great story line loved it
December 31, 2016
I really enjoyed reading this series.
November 19, 2015
I was given an ARC of this book and i have to say I LOVED IT!!
This book follows Raven and Lexi in the University Park series, they are such an awesome couple that have been through so much together from the very beginning. This book made me cry happy tears, Lexi is such a strong willed person who struggles with her hormones running rampant during her pregnancy and having to face being on her own for periods of time while Raven makes his presence known in Football.
She struggles with feeling like the "clingy one" and wants so desperately to believe Raven has changed and will not return to his days of running when times get tough.
I had a panic attack when Lexi went into labor and the doc said Jonah's heart beat wasn't as strong as it should be.
Raven is just amazing! He is so loving and I loved the fact that he definitely has a Daddy's little Girl, that was such a heart warming moment when only he could settle her when no one else could.
I wanted to reach into my kindle and strangle Lexi's mum she's such a nasty piece of work, self centered and totally just for show around the "right people" rather than her devoting her time and love to her family but i laughed out loud and wanted to high five Raven - Raven got her good by telling her " I hope you're referring to the old Raven and not the New Raven" when Lexi's mum had a snide comment to make about how much Jonah looked like Raven and hoped he didn't act like him too! I Loved that Raven stood up for himself and put her in her place.
Congratulations on a awesome book!! This series is an absolute fave that I have re read soooooo many times ❤️❤️❤️
This book follows Raven and Lexi in the University Park series, they are such an awesome couple that have been through so much together from the very beginning. This book made me cry happy tears, Lexi is such a strong willed person who struggles with her hormones running rampant during her pregnancy and having to face being on her own for periods of time while Raven makes his presence known in Football.
She struggles with feeling like the "clingy one" and wants so desperately to believe Raven has changed and will not return to his days of running when times get tough.
I had a panic attack when Lexi went into labor and the doc said Jonah's heart beat wasn't as strong as it should be.
Raven is just amazing! He is so loving and I loved the fact that he definitely has a Daddy's little Girl, that was such a heart warming moment when only he could settle her when no one else could.
I wanted to reach into my kindle and strangle Lexi's mum she's such a nasty piece of work, self centered and totally just for show around the "right people" rather than her devoting her time and love to her family but i laughed out loud and wanted to high five Raven - Raven got her good by telling her " I hope you're referring to the old Raven and not the New Raven" when Lexi's mum had a snide comment to make about how much Jonah looked like Raven and hoped he didn't act like him too! I Loved that Raven stood up for himself and put her in her place.
Congratulations on a awesome book!! This series is an absolute fave that I have re read soooooo many times ❤️❤️❤️
November 19, 2015
I was given an ARC of this book and i have to say I LOVED IT!!
This book follows Raven and Lexi in the University Park series, they are such an awesome couple that have been through so much together from the very beginning. This book made me cry happy tears, Lexi is such a strong willed person who struggles with her hormones running rampant during her pregnancy and having to face being on her own for periods of time while Raven makes his presence known in Football.
She struggles with feeling like the "clingy one" and wants so desperately to believe Raven has changed and will not return to his days of running when times get tough.
I had a panic attack when Lexi went into labor and the doc said Jonah's heart beat wasn't as strong as it should be.
Raven is just amazing! He is so loving and I loved the fact that he definitely has a Daddy's little Girl, that was such a heart warming moment when only he could settle her when no one else could.
I wanted to reach into my kindle and strangle Lexi's mum she's such a nasty piece of work, self centered and totally just for show around the "right people" rather than her devoting her time and love to her family but i laughed out loud and wanted to high five Raven - Raven got her good by telling her " I hope you're referring to the old Raven and not the New Raven" when Lexi's mum had a snide comment to make about how much Jonah looked like Raven and hoped he didn't act like him too! I Loved that Raven stood up for himself and put her in her place.
Congratulations on a awesome book!! This series is an absolute fave that I have re read soooooo many times ❤️❤️❤️
This book follows Raven and Lexi in the University Park series, they are such an awesome couple that have been through so much together from the very beginning. This book made me cry happy tears, Lexi is such a strong willed person who struggles with her hormones running rampant during her pregnancy and having to face being on her own for periods of time while Raven makes his presence known in Football.
She struggles with feeling like the "clingy one" and wants so desperately to believe Raven has changed and will not return to his days of running when times get tough.
I had a panic attack when Lexi went into labor and the doc said Jonah's heart beat wasn't as strong as it should be.
Raven is just amazing! He is so loving and I loved the fact that he definitely has a Daddy's little Girl, that was such a heart warming moment when only he could settle her when no one else could.
I wanted to reach into my kindle and strangle Lexi's mum she's such a nasty piece of work, self centered and totally just for show around the "right people" rather than her devoting her time and love to her family but i laughed out loud and wanted to high five Raven - Raven got her good by telling her " I hope you're referring to the old Raven and not the New Raven" when Lexi's mum had a snide comment to make about how much Jonah looked like Raven and hoped he didn't act like him too! I Loved that Raven stood up for himself and put her in her place.
Congratulations on a awesome book!! This series is an absolute fave that I have re read soooooo many times ❤️❤️❤️
November 30, 2015
This is book # 5 in the University Park series. By the authors own words: **This novella takes place before the epilogue in The Winning Side and A Different Side. This book can be read as a standalone, but it is recommended you read the series.**
The story continues for Raven and Lexi as they are now in New Orleans and he is beginning his NFL career. They are steadily working on their relationship moving forward and planning for the future.
Lexi is adjusting to living in a new city, being away from her family and being loved by Raven's. There is so much going on and she is afraid still, that Raven will give in to his dark side and she will lose everything. He assures her all the time that he loves her, but she cannot help it.
Raven is stressed and worried. He is trying to be there for Lexi, not let his team down and take them all the way. This is his chance and he does not want to blow it.
I loved this book! This is such a good and endearing book about how love endures - even when there are cracks that can be filled or weaken you. Such a pure example of unconditional love and HEA that can happen against all odds! Grab you a copy, you won't regret it!!
***This ARC copy was given in exchange for an honest review only.
The story continues for Raven and Lexi as they are now in New Orleans and he is beginning his NFL career. They are steadily working on their relationship moving forward and planning for the future.
Lexi is adjusting to living in a new city, being away from her family and being loved by Raven's. There is so much going on and she is afraid still, that Raven will give in to his dark side and she will lose everything. He assures her all the time that he loves her, but she cannot help it.
Raven is stressed and worried. He is trying to be there for Lexi, not let his team down and take them all the way. This is his chance and he does not want to blow it.
I loved this book! This is such a good and endearing book about how love endures - even when there are cracks that can be filled or weaken you. Such a pure example of unconditional love and HEA that can happen against all odds! Grab you a copy, you won't regret it!!
***This ARC copy was given in exchange for an honest review only.
November 30, 2015
I was so happy when C.M. Doporto wrote some more about Raven and Lexi. A Different Christmas was AWESOME and I LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! Finally Raven and Lexi are together after been through hell and back. They are living in a nice house together, he's playing pro football, and they are waiting on their twins. Raven is finally starting at QB for his team so he's busy all the time, and that's bringing Lexi's old demons to the surface. He's been working hard to show her that he can be the husband she deserves, as she's not ready to marry him quite yet. Will Lexi finally trust Raven enough to give him what he wants the most in the world.
This is a fantastic way to end this EPIC series! The character development is fantastic, as it's amazing to see how they have evolved through the pregnancy. The emotional, well written story line flows perfectly. I laughed, had some tears, got a tiny bit irritated with Lexi, laughed, and ultimately cheered like crazy! C.M. Doporto does an amazing job as usual, captivating me cover to cover, while keeping me on the edge on my seat. I'm very sad to say goodbye to Lexi and Raven, as I can never have enough of them, so I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
This is a fantastic way to end this EPIC series! The character development is fantastic, as it's amazing to see how they have evolved through the pregnancy. The emotional, well written story line flows perfectly. I laughed, had some tears, got a tiny bit irritated with Lexi, laughed, and ultimately cheered like crazy! C.M. Doporto does an amazing job as usual, captivating me cover to cover, while keeping me on the edge on my seat. I'm very sad to say goodbye to Lexi and Raven, as I can never have enough of them, so I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
November 21, 2015
From the beginning, I fell in love with Lexi and Raven's story. I felt every emotion they were feeling and I even "yelled" at them. As I was reading this fantabulous ending to an amazing couple's story, it saddened me, to think this is the last book about them. Thankfully, we will see them (and their family) in Luke's story.
I loved to read about their struggles during this period of their life. To read about Lexi's doubts, but also her love for Raven. Ditto with Raven.You get to see the progress and goals they've made over time. As you read this book, you too, will fall in love with them, and their children, even more. My favorite part of this whole book was... the ending. (I also hate it because that means the end) But, it made me tear up and express so much joy. <3 :) :(
I love but hate you CM for making this the last book. It was so good words can't even describe it. Can't wait for Luke's.
LOVED THIS BOOK!
READ IT NOW! LOL
FYI: I suggest you read the first 4 (or at least 3) books in the series.
Thanks for reading my review but GO! Get Reading! :* :) ;)
-Trinity
I loved to read about their struggles during this period of their life. To read about Lexi's doubts, but also her love for Raven. Ditto with Raven.You get to see the progress and goals they've made over time. As you read this book, you too, will fall in love with them, and their children, even more. My favorite part of this whole book was... the ending. (I also hate it because that means the end) But, it made me tear up and express so much joy. <3 :) :(
I love but hate you CM for making this the last book. It was so good words can't even describe it. Can't wait for Luke's.
LOVED THIS BOOK!
READ IT NOW! LOL
FYI: I suggest you read the first 4 (or at least 3) books in the series.
Thanks for reading my review but GO! Get Reading! :* :) ;)
-Trinity
November 19, 2015
Raven Davenport is back, and this time, fate is finally on his side. Lexy waits patiently, with twins soon to come, as he partakes in his one last shot at what he longs for, a career in professional football. With the pressure of his football career on the line, and trying to prove to Lexy his affinity, push him back to his old ways? Will Raven prove to Lexy he is the man he needs to be? Come meet the new Raven and fall in love again. It will Have you crying and cheering again for Raven and Lexy's love to conquer all.
February 10, 2016
Awww!!! This was the perfect end of the series...Raven's insecurities were overcome, Lexi became a mom and FINALLY said yes to Raven!!
Even though sometimes I felt like kicking her ass for thinking wrong of Raven, I really enjoyed this book, it made me laugh, smile and most def cry...
It was a long series but no regrets :-)
Even though sometimes I felt like kicking her ass for thinking wrong of Raven, I really enjoyed this book, it made me laugh, smile and most def cry...
It was a long series but no regrets :-)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2016
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love everything about Raven & Lexi from book 1 If I can say anything read the books you'll love this love story I mean everyone has ups & down they make it also have the babies to make it better. I'm going to miss Raven & Lexi.
I love everything about Raven & Lexi from book 1 If I can say anything read the books you'll love this love story I mean everyone has ups & down they make it also have the babies to make it better. I'm going to miss Raven & Lexi.
November 18, 2015
I absolutely love these characters. I'm so thankful we got to share some more time with them. This book is a great holiday read. You get to see Lexi and Raven's struggles as they make their way through hormones and Raven's new position in football. This is a must read.
December 10, 2015
I loved this book. If you haven't read any of the UPS I suggest reading them first. I was caught in the Ravens trap from the very beginning. This book was just amazing. Raven and Lexi have gone through so much together.
November 19, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Probably really 3.5 stars.
Cute story. Enjoyable. Good to see how Raven worked to prove himself to Lexi.
Lexi was a bit whiny through the story, but I'm guessing it was the hormones.
Probably really 3.5 stars.
Cute story. Enjoyable. Good to see how Raven worked to prove himself to Lexi.
Lexi was a bit whiny through the story, but I'm guessing it was the hormones.
November 30, 2015
Aww amazing
The Raven trap never gets old. I was hooked on the first page of this book just like all the other ones. I'm so glad they ended up with there happy ever after. Raven and Lexi we're made for each other. I really hope Luke and Dalaney will have there own books.
The Raven trap never gets old. I was hooked on the first page of this book just like all the other ones. I'm so glad they ended up with there happy ever after. Raven and Lexi we're made for each other. I really hope Luke and Dalaney will have there own books.
December 16, 2015
A great finish to the series.
Raven and Lexi deserved a happy ending. And they finally got it. What a great finish to the series. Now I wonder if there will be Delaney and Luke's story coming soon.
Raven and Lexi deserved a happy ending. And they finally got it. What a great finish to the series. Now I wonder if there will be Delaney and Luke's story coming soon.
December 1, 2015
The Raven
I loved this little insight to what happened between Raven and Lexi between the end and the epilogue. I am definitely caught in The Raven's trap!!
I loved this little insight to what happened between Raven and Lexi between the end and the epilogue. I am definitely caught in The Raven's trap!!
December 15, 2015
Awe, how sweet. Seeing the softer side of Raven and the tougher side of Lexi was perfect!!!
December 5, 2015
A different Christmas
This was very good book and a great way to tie the series together. I love the love story of Lexi &Raven
This was very good book and a great way to tie the series together. I love the love story of Lexi &Raven
December 11, 2015
Great!!
A wonderful novella to go along with the books!! Absolutely perfect! Ups and downs can never come between true love!!
A wonderful novella to go along with the books!! Absolutely perfect! Ups and downs can never come between true love!!
April 20, 2016
Really enjoyed this book. Glad to have the happy ended they did. What I'm really excited for is to read A different Side, all 3 books from Raven's point of view.
March 7, 2016
Realmente ame este libro, me encanto que tiene los dos puntos de vista. Toda la serie hubiera sido mejor así. Excelente libro
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews