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“Who just stole my thunder across the Hafton airwaves, you ask? Right now, right this very second, listeners, I have Hafton’s one-and-only, the main man with the ball in hand, Blane Steele is in the studio. Mark my words—he’ll not only steal the ball, but your lady’s heart too. Watch out, gentlemen, the Stealer is in the house!”
— Sonny Be Knocking Boots, Hafton Radio 96.9
Coed antics.
Chaos.
Angst-ridden twists in fate.
Caterina is an intern. Sonny is her shock-jock boss. And Blane is a good-hearted baller…except when he steps on the court. Between on-air dares, an evil feminist professor, a straight-shooter of a coach, and rumors from the league surrounding Steele, these three are destined to screw it all up.
Rather than a love triangle, this is a friends-to-lovers story where the disc jockey acts as the catalyst, and a basketball player finds his life transformed when center court intersects with love.
— Sonny Be Knocking Boots, Hafton Radio 96.9
Coed antics.
Chaos.
Angst-ridden twists in fate.
Caterina is an intern. Sonny is her shock-jock boss. And Blane is a good-hearted baller…except when he steps on the court. Between on-air dares, an evil feminist professor, a straight-shooter of a coach, and rumors from the league surrounding Steele, these three are destined to screw it all up.
Rather than a love triangle, this is a friends-to-lovers story where the disc jockey acts as the catalyst, and a basketball player finds his life transformed when center court intersects with love.
350 pages, Paperback
First published January 17, 2016
14 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Blaufeld
27 books939 followersA recent poll of her readers described Rachel Blaufeld as insightful, generous, articulate, and spunky. Originally a clinical social worker, Rachel creates broken yet redeeming characters. She’s been known to turn up the angst like cranking up the heat in the dead of winter. A devout coffee drinker and doughnut eater, Rachel spends way too many hours in local coffee shops, downing the aforementioned goodies while she plots her ideas.
As a side note, Blaufeld, also a long-time blogger and an advocate of woman-run anything, is fearless about sharing her opinion. She captured the ears of stay-at-home and working moms on her blog, BacknGrooveMom, chronicling her adventures in parenting tweens and running a business, often at the same time. To her, work/life/family balance is an urban legend, but she does her best. Rachel has also blogged for The Huffington Post and Modern Mom. Most recently, her insights can be found in USA TODAY Happy Ever After Blog, where she shares conversations at “In Bed with a Romance Author.”
Rachel lives around the corner from her childhood home in Pennsylvania with her family and two beagles. When she isn’t writing, she can be found courtside, tweeting about hoops as her son plays, or walking around the house wearing earplugs while her other son, the drummer, bangs away.
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As a side note, Blaufeld, also a long-time blogger and an advocate of woman-run anything, is fearless about sharing her opinion. She captured the ears of stay-at-home and working moms on her blog, BacknGrooveMom, chronicling her adventures in parenting tweens and running a business, often at the same time. To her, work/life/family balance is an urban legend, but she does her best. Rachel has also blogged for The Huffington Post and Modern Mom. Most recently, her insights can be found in USA TODAY Happy Ever After Blog, where she shares conversations at “In Bed with a Romance Author.”
Rachel lives around the corner from her childhood home in Pennsylvania with her family and two beagles. When she isn’t writing, she can be found courtside, tweeting about hoops as her son plays, or walking around the house wearing earplugs while her other son, the drummer, bangs away.
Connect here 👇🏻
Website: https://www.rachelblaufeld.com
Newsletter: https://www.rachelblaufeld.com/signup
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachelblaufe...
Facebook Private Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Tunne...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rachelblaufeld
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rache...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelblauf...
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Rachel-Blaufeld...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 23, 2016
4 stars!
One thing I love about Rachel Blaufeld’s books is they aren’t the same old story. I can’t say I’ve read any other NA/sports romance with this story line. It’s not the most common thing to have a different plot and twist than the average book so if you’re looking for something that’s not the same old same old, this is one you need to pick up!
Caterina is one of those feisty and sassy heroines. She’s a self proclaimed feminist, a women’s studies major, and is interning at the college radio station. Blain ‘the Stealer’ Steele is the star basketball player at Hafton. When he meets Caterina, aka Catie with a C, he is enamored. He likes her attitude. She is different from all the ball babies he’s used to. And that just makes him want her more.
Blaine makes it his mission to have Catie be his friend. At first, she wants nothing to do with this jock that she is attracted to. This is not the type of guy she wants to be with, or even be friends with, but the more persistent he is, and the more time she spends with him, the harder he is to resist. They develop a fun and flirty friendship that slowly turns into more. Even if Cate doesn’t want to admit it.
I don’t want to say much about the story from here, because somethings happen that I don’t know what to think about. I can’t tell if I think ‘You go girl- do what you do’ or ‘WTF am I really okay with this?’ I’m definitely conflicted about the turn the story takes. But one thing is for sure, I LIKE that it wasn’t predictable and the same old same old.
I love Rachel’s writing style. I loved both of these characters. As much as I got frustrated a few times, I still loved both Catie and Blaine. Cate stayed true to herself and stood up for what she believed it and that is something to say bravo to. This is the second book in Blaufeld’s Love at Center Court series but can most definitely be read as a stand-alone. If you haven’t read Verite, I highly recommend you pick that one up, too. It’s an excellent read!
One thing I love about Rachel Blaufeld’s books is they aren’t the same old story. I can’t say I’ve read any other NA/sports romance with this story line. It’s not the most common thing to have a different plot and twist than the average book so if you’re looking for something that’s not the same old same old, this is one you need to pick up!
Caterina is one of those feisty and sassy heroines. She’s a self proclaimed feminist, a women’s studies major, and is interning at the college radio station. Blain ‘the Stealer’ Steele is the star basketball player at Hafton. When he meets Caterina, aka Catie with a C, he is enamored. He likes her attitude. She is different from all the ball babies he’s used to. And that just makes him want her more.
Blaine makes it his mission to have Catie be his friend. At first, she wants nothing to do with this jock that she is attracted to. This is not the type of guy she wants to be with, or even be friends with, but the more persistent he is, and the more time she spends with him, the harder he is to resist. They develop a fun and flirty friendship that slowly turns into more. Even if Cate doesn’t want to admit it.
I don’t want to say much about the story from here, because somethings happen that I don’t know what to think about. I can’t tell if I think ‘You go girl- do what you do’ or ‘WTF am I really okay with this?’ I’m definitely conflicted about the turn the story takes. But one thing is for sure, I LIKE that it wasn’t predictable and the same old same old.
I love Rachel’s writing style. I loved both of these characters. As much as I got frustrated a few times, I still loved both Catie and Blaine. Cate stayed true to herself and stood up for what she believed it and that is something to say bravo to. This is the second book in Blaufeld’s Love at Center Court series but can most definitely be read as a stand-alone. If you haven’t read Verite, I highly recommend you pick that one up, too. It’s an excellent read!
January 20, 2016
5 #StealerandDJGirl STARS
Wow! Rachel Blaufeld did it again! Totally gave me an absolutely awesome story that was so original and heartwarming, angsty in the just the right way...and let's not forget a sexy, lovable basketball player and smart, sassy and sexy heroine!
Before you think: "Oh no, not another sports romance."
It's not what you think. Sure, there's a star basketball player and heartthrob, Blane Steele, with the moniker “Stealer” as he’s known for not only stealing the ball, but the ladies’ hearts. But that’s only one part of the story. The other half of this equation is Caterina (Cate), a women studies major and DJ intern whose feisty, curvy and Blane can’t help but take notice.
This book took me on a one-of-a-kind journey. I wouldn’t have predicted how this story was going to unfold. I know I’ve said this before, but for me, one of the things that takes a book from good to great, and what makes a tale truly outstanding, is the author’s ability to provide an unexpectedly moving and enlightening story. One that pushes against boundaries and beliefs yet still gives you all the gooey goodness of the feels, a little angst, and those sweet and sexy times.
I recently discovered Rachel Blaufeld with the first book in this series, Vérité and it gave me all of those things. And like the first book, but in a completely different way, Dolce does just that too.
I can’t recommend this series enough. If you're up for something different, at times challenging and moving, this is for you. For some, you may not be able to get past the twist in this tale but for me, while a total surprise, it made sense and gave this formidable read the powerhouse punch to make it unforgettable. I promise you that it's not what you're expecting but don't worry, you’ll get so much more!
This is the second book in the Love at Center Court series but it can be read as a stand alone. But if you haven’t read book 1, you should! I'm looking forward to more from these ballers. For me, the most important thing this book did for me was make me realize, I've got to read more from Rachel.
And to think she almost didn’t write this! Rachel, if you ever need a cheerleader, I’m your girl!
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
-------------------------
Before reading:
Going back to Hafton State University!
Love me those ballers!
For more reviews and blog posts.
Wow! Rachel Blaufeld did it again! Totally gave me an absolutely awesome story that was so original and heartwarming, angsty in the just the right way...and let's not forget a sexy, lovable basketball player and smart, sassy and sexy heroine!
Before you think: "Oh no, not another sports romance."
It's not what you think. Sure, there's a star basketball player and heartthrob, Blane Steele, with the moniker “Stealer” as he’s known for not only stealing the ball, but the ladies’ hearts. But that’s only one part of the story. The other half of this equation is Caterina (Cate), a women studies major and DJ intern whose feisty, curvy and Blane can’t help but take notice.
This book took me on a one-of-a-kind journey. I wouldn’t have predicted how this story was going to unfold. I know I’ve said this before, but for me, one of the things that takes a book from good to great, and what makes a tale truly outstanding, is the author’s ability to provide an unexpectedly moving and enlightening story. One that pushes against boundaries and beliefs yet still gives you all the gooey goodness of the feels, a little angst, and those sweet and sexy times.
I recently discovered Rachel Blaufeld with the first book in this series, Vérité and it gave me all of those things. And like the first book, but in a completely different way, Dolce does just that too.
I can’t recommend this series enough. If you're up for something different, at times challenging and moving, this is for you. For some, you may not be able to get past the twist in this tale but for me, while a total surprise, it made sense and gave this formidable read the powerhouse punch to make it unforgettable. I promise you that it's not what you're expecting but don't worry, you’ll get so much more!
This is the second book in the Love at Center Court series but it can be read as a stand alone. But if you haven’t read book 1, you should! I'm looking forward to more from these ballers. For me, the most important thing this book did for me was make me realize, I've got to read more from Rachel.
And to think she almost didn’t write this! Rachel, if you ever need a cheerleader, I’m your girl!
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
-------------------------
Before reading:
Going back to Hafton State University!
Love me those ballers!
For more reviews and blog posts.
January 21, 2016
I seriously love Hafton University so much, so I was so excited to go back in Dolce. I was a little sad to see that this book actually takes place five years later, so none of the old guys are there. So you can absolutely read Dolce as a standalone.
Cate has everything planned out and is completed dedicated to her women’s studies major. She is also a feisty DJ, so it’s easy to see why Blane is attracted to her. See Blane Steele is a star basketball player, but he isn’t your typical jock. I loved this little surprise, Blane wasn’t closed minded and loved strong, independent woman. I could totally see how Cate could fall for someone like Blane and vice versa.
There is one thing I can definitely say, Dolce is unpredictable. I didn’t expect things to play out like they did. Even as things were unfolding I was in shock. I’ll be honest, I didn’t love all the surprises. They made me super nervous as I imagine how things would eventually end. Dolce has plenty of angst and questionable decisions, but it definitely mean’t I couldn’t put it down.
I do love Rachel’s writing, this is my second book by her and they are always addictive. I love how it’s easy to get wrapped up in the story and how real all the characters feel. This story was a little much for me and made me question certain things, but in the end I did enjoy it. If you are a fan of college romances, coming to age stories, and love a little angst, I definitely recommend.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Cate has everything planned out and is completed dedicated to her women’s studies major. She is also a feisty DJ, so it’s easy to see why Blane is attracted to her. See Blane Steele is a star basketball player, but he isn’t your typical jock. I loved this little surprise, Blane wasn’t closed minded and loved strong, independent woman. I could totally see how Cate could fall for someone like Blane and vice versa.
There is one thing I can definitely say, Dolce is unpredictable. I didn’t expect things to play out like they did. Even as things were unfolding I was in shock. I’ll be honest, I didn’t love all the surprises. They made me super nervous as I imagine how things would eventually end. Dolce has plenty of angst and questionable decisions, but it definitely mean’t I couldn’t put it down.
I do love Rachel’s writing, this is my second book by her and they are always addictive. I love how it’s easy to get wrapped up in the story and how real all the characters feel. This story was a little much for me and made me question certain things, but in the end I did enjoy it. If you are a fan of college romances, coming to age stories, and love a little angst, I definitely recommend.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2016
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
I just luv Cate an Blane they are AMAZIN
Blane is your typical college sports guy in luv partying and woman he as had he fair share of ball bunnies he as a great career ahead of him he could of left a yr early to join the NBA but he wanted to graduate an win the championship a few people thought he was crazy but he had come a trailer park his mum an dad had divorced an he wanted better thinks for his family so he needed to this but he was getting a lil fed up of the different woman al the time he had been there done that so when Catarina came crashing into the room of the radio station where Blane was at he could believe is eyes or ears she had a sassy mouth an curves that went on for days she was every thing he didn't go for but there something about her that he just couldnt stop thinkin about
Catarina/Catie/Cate it's al with a C people not a K haha was al about feminism it was her major but she wasn't your normal feminist she luvd sports an this went against everything she believed in so it was a lil hush hush but she luvd watch her team an had luvd watchin them win last yr so when Blane started playin interest in her she really couldn't believe it she was the thin blonde an beautiful girl people like Blane went for so she automatically jump on him but there was the stupid BET Catie had witnessed yesterday that he had made with the very annoyin an up his own ass Sonny B Blame couldn't sleep with with any girls well he put himself in that position as well so Catie found this weird he now started paying attention an Catie being Catie would stand for he crap even though she couldn't get him out of her head an the throb between her legs as a constant he made he feel things she as never felt but this wasn't in her plans she had to finish her major an the internship at the radio station was a must even though she had to put up with Sonny B but she didn't know that Blane didn't give up easy an he wanted her end of even if she didn't think she was what he want wanted
This story was just so good I fell in luv with Catie so much she did everything for the people she luvd her mum an sister were just shit heads she didn't have many friends but she stood up for what she believed in even if she had to let go of thing she didn't want to Blane is just as amazin he is super sexy an when he wants something nothing gets in the way Ye he will give u space but he us never fair away I luvd the way he was with Catie she wasn't really very confident but he made her feel so good that she believed everything he would say cause it was true it was so good watching them go from friends to more I just luvd them together even though they were total opposites they just fit great together opposites attract an al that I 'll remember this book for so many things but every time I eat cheesecake I 'll remember this in a good way ; ) haha
I read every book by Rachel an I just have to say that her books just get better an better there isn't a book that I've not liked or luvd an really can't recommend her enough I highly recommend this book it's so good it's funny an sad an had me tearing up on parts but overall I totally luvd this I could put it down once I start that was it fell in luv xxx
I just luv Cate an Blane they are AMAZIN
Blane is your typical college sports guy in luv partying and woman he as had he fair share of ball bunnies he as a great career ahead of him he could of left a yr early to join the NBA but he wanted to graduate an win the championship a few people thought he was crazy but he had come a trailer park his mum an dad had divorced an he wanted better thinks for his family so he needed to this but he was getting a lil fed up of the different woman al the time he had been there done that so when Catarina came crashing into the room of the radio station where Blane was at he could believe is eyes or ears she had a sassy mouth an curves that went on for days she was every thing he didn't go for but there something about her that he just couldnt stop thinkin about
Catarina/Catie/Cate it's al with a C people not a K haha was al about feminism it was her major but she wasn't your normal feminist she luvd sports an this went against everything she believed in so it was a lil hush hush but she luvd watch her team an had luvd watchin them win last yr so when Blane started playin interest in her she really couldn't believe it she was the thin blonde an beautiful girl people like Blane went for so she automatically jump on him but there was the stupid BET Catie had witnessed yesterday that he had made with the very annoyin an up his own ass Sonny B Blame couldn't sleep with with any girls well he put himself in that position as well so Catie found this weird he now started paying attention an Catie being Catie would stand for he crap even though she couldn't get him out of her head an the throb between her legs as a constant he made he feel things she as never felt but this wasn't in her plans she had to finish her major an the internship at the radio station was a must even though she had to put up with Sonny B but she didn't know that Blane didn't give up easy an he wanted her end of even if she didn't think she was what he want wanted
This story was just so good I fell in luv with Catie so much she did everything for the people she luvd her mum an sister were just shit heads she didn't have many friends but she stood up for what she believed in even if she had to let go of thing she didn't want to Blane is just as amazin he is super sexy an when he wants something nothing gets in the way Ye he will give u space but he us never fair away I luvd the way he was with Catie she wasn't really very confident but he made her feel so good that she believed everything he would say cause it was true it was so good watching them go from friends to more I just luvd them together even though they were total opposites they just fit great together opposites attract an al that I 'll remember this book for so many things but every time I eat cheesecake I 'll remember this in a good way ; ) haha
I read every book by Rachel an I just have to say that her books just get better an better there isn't a book that I've not liked or luvd an really can't recommend her enough I highly recommend this book it's so good it's funny an sad an had me tearing up on parts but overall I totally luvd this I could put it down once I start that was it fell in luv xxx
February 4, 2016
5 -
I've rendered Little Miss Big Mouth speechless...
Stars!
IT'S LIVE!
I think the main thing that stood out about Dolce for me was not the fact that I massively enjoyed it, because that was a given, it was the fact that Rachel Blaufeld gave me a story I was totally not expecting, and it was absolutely unputdownable.
Dolce takes place four years after the events of Vérité so although the locations have stayed the same, all of the Hafton State University Basketball players have changed. Blane Steele is the big bad baller around campus, and has quite the reputation as the ladies’ man. Well he did until one unfortunate radio interview leaves him stuck with a season of celibacy and a promise to win the championship for the year…
I was stolen by the Stealer, and pretty sure I was unable to be rescued.
The problems really start to occur when he finds himself initially intrigued by radio intern and fellow student Catie, and what starts off as an unlikely friendship, quickly develops into more for both of them.
I had to keep my feet on the floor, my heart in check, and my head in the real world, not in this fantasy I was building.
The only problem being that Catie doesn’t think she is worthy of a relationship with Hafton’s Golden Boy, not to mention the fact that she is nursing the mother of all secrets… A secret that could have massive repercussions for both of them if ever revealed.
"I’m not running, just finding a better place."
I don’t really want to give much more away than that, I think the beauty in this book is the total and utter shock that you experience when you work out what is going on. As usual the author has put together a stellar cast of characters to carry along the storyline beautifully.
I loved Blane unequivocally, the guy was an absolute sweetheart from start to finish, and I think that is one of the things that makes the Love at Centre Court series so easy to read, the guys although alpha sportsmen, mouthy and full of confidence, all have a little bit of vulnerability in them that you as readers get to see, because of the fact the author provides a dual POV, that is absolutely stellar from both sides.
Catie, was a character I felt a lot of empathy for, body confidence is a massive thing that women struggle with nowadays because of the constraints and expectations of society in regards to what is the norm and how we think we should look, and reading of her struggle with herself and believing that she was worthy of a man like Blane were balanced perfectly in that she didn’t come across as whiny, but more unsure and nervous. Having it brow beaten into you all of the live long day by the people that should love you unreservedly didn’t help her situation, but I loved the fact she took matters into her own hands, and with shocking consequences.
This isn’t your standard sports romance, the author as you would expect if you have read anything by her previously, gives it her own unique twist, and refreshing spin, and pretty much keeps you guessing until the end. I really hope we get to return to Hafton again in the future, as Rachel has built a really solid foundation to move forwards with, through the first two books in this series.
"let’s do this again."
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
IT'S LIVE!
I think the main thing that stood out about Dolce for me was not the fact that I massively enjoyed it, because that was a given, it was the fact that Rachel Blaufeld gave me a story I was totally not expecting, and it was absolutely unputdownable.
Dolce takes place four years after the events of Vérité so although the locations have stayed the same, all of the Hafton State University Basketball players have changed. Blane Steele is the big bad baller around campus, and has quite the reputation as the ladies’ man. Well he did until one unfortunate radio interview leaves him stuck with a season of celibacy and a promise to win the championship for the year…
I was stolen by the Stealer, and pretty sure I was unable to be rescued.
The problems really start to occur when he finds himself initially intrigued by radio intern and fellow student Catie, and what starts off as an unlikely friendship, quickly develops into more for both of them.
I had to keep my feet on the floor, my heart in check, and my head in the real world, not in this fantasy I was building.
The only problem being that Catie doesn’t think she is worthy of a relationship with Hafton’s Golden Boy, not to mention the fact that she is nursing the mother of all secrets… A secret that could have massive repercussions for both of them if ever revealed.
"I’m not running, just finding a better place."
I don’t really want to give much more away than that, I think the beauty in this book is the total and utter shock that you experience when you work out what is going on. As usual the author has put together a stellar cast of characters to carry along the storyline beautifully.
I loved Blane unequivocally, the guy was an absolute sweetheart from start to finish, and I think that is one of the things that makes the Love at Centre Court series so easy to read, the guys although alpha sportsmen, mouthy and full of confidence, all have a little bit of vulnerability in them that you as readers get to see, because of the fact the author provides a dual POV, that is absolutely stellar from both sides.
Catie, was a character I felt a lot of empathy for, body confidence is a massive thing that women struggle with nowadays because of the constraints and expectations of society in regards to what is the norm and how we think we should look, and reading of her struggle with herself and believing that she was worthy of a man like Blane were balanced perfectly in that she didn’t come across as whiny, but more unsure and nervous. Having it brow beaten into you all of the live long day by the people that should love you unreservedly didn’t help her situation, but I loved the fact she took matters into her own hands, and with shocking consequences.
This isn’t your standard sports romance, the author as you would expect if you have read anything by her previously, gives it her own unique twist, and refreshing spin, and pretty much keeps you guessing until the end. I really hope we get to return to Hafton again in the future, as Rachel has built a really solid foundation to move forwards with, through the first two books in this series.
"let’s do this again."
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
January 19, 2016
**Dolce generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Releases January 21, 2016!
5 "That's the one that brought me to you." Stars
Rachel Blaufeld continually impresses me with her stories about a precarious time in our lives when we're figuring out who exactly we are and what we want to achieve. Written with distinct honesty, a sweet hero and fiery heroine, Dolce once again delivers Blaufeld's signature style of story.
While Dolce is a standalone, new adult romance it journey's readers back to Hafton University the setting of Blaufeld's first book in the Love at Center Court series, Verite. Told from both first person points of view of Blaine and Cat, Blaufeld's writing captures perfectly a true love story between two very different souls destined to find each other. With a male protagonist destined for greatness on the court and a player around campus coupled with an uber-feminist, not-your-typical-heroine female sparks fly along with witty dialogue, forthright internal drama, and a whole lot of interesting plot.
I love how this author continually proves to me that her characters stay true to themselves while they grow and develop. The angst in Dolce isn't forced to conjured from somewhere dishonest making the maturing of both Blaine and Cat a natural transition. From fast friends to more, a cat and mouse game ensues where there's feelings neither are sure how to react to. The intrigue these two characters have for each other comes from a curious place and turns into much more. With a jerky radio DJ, Blaine's teammates, a sour professor, and an interesting twist these two must discover and decipher the feelings they hold for one another.
If you like sports romance of the new adult variety, the Love at Center Court series is definitely for you. Verite doesn't need to be read before Dolce although I highly recommend reading both.
Review of Verite , book one.
January 25, 2016
3.5 Stars for the Stealer!
Well, I wanted this book to get me out of my funk. I wanted to LOVE it, but in the end it was a good read, but it didn't do the deed!
I have come to really like this author's style of writing and the stories she puts out. She somehow has the ability to make the "bad boy falls for good girl" love stories a bit unique. Dolce is book 2 in her new series. Again, the setting is a college town with the male hottie on the winning Hampton basketball team. Yes, male-slut status is in play, Blane Steele is suddenly put on the "no relations" list by an annoying college DJ who puts up a challenge after defending the honor of a feisty feminist extraordinaire Caterina!
Of course, this is the first girl that makes the 6'4" hottie stop and pay attention. Tired of the meaningless flings, Blane is totally taken as Cate brings some sass with her brush off attitude and trash mouth. She wants nothing to do with the "the Stealer," but he has no plans to back off! So set around the hoopla of a championship season, fan frenzy and image challenges...a truly good hearted baller falls for a girl who has no idea who she is or what she stands for.
As I stated, I wanted to love this read. Blane Steele is absolutely perfect in my book! He was fun, flirty, romantic and just all out amazing. While I appreciate the interest in the seemingly strong woman who was different from the ball-bunnies, I quickly lost my appreciation for her. This character was full of insecurities. She was constantly putting herself down, conscious about her weight, unable to take a compliment, and always running away. I love a man who chases after a woman but how much is too much?
Again, it may be a "me not you" kinda thing but I just didn't connect with Cate and her 100 bad decisions and insecurities...good thing that Blane Steele was worth every moment spent in this read!!!
Well, I wanted this book to get me out of my funk. I wanted to LOVE it, but in the end it was a good read, but it didn't do the deed!
I have come to really like this author's style of writing and the stories she puts out. She somehow has the ability to make the "bad boy falls for good girl" love stories a bit unique. Dolce is book 2 in her new series. Again, the setting is a college town with the male hottie on the winning Hampton basketball team. Yes, male-slut status is in play, Blane Steele is suddenly put on the "no relations" list by an annoying college DJ who puts up a challenge after defending the honor of a feisty feminist extraordinaire Caterina!
Of course, this is the first girl that makes the 6'4" hottie stop and pay attention. Tired of the meaningless flings, Blane is totally taken as Cate brings some sass with her brush off attitude and trash mouth. She wants nothing to do with the "the Stealer," but he has no plans to back off! So set around the hoopla of a championship season, fan frenzy and image challenges...a truly good hearted baller falls for a girl who has no idea who she is or what she stands for.
As I stated, I wanted to love this read. Blane Steele is absolutely perfect in my book! He was fun, flirty, romantic and just all out amazing. While I appreciate the interest in the seemingly strong woman who was different from the ball-bunnies, I quickly lost my appreciation for her. This character was full of insecurities. She was constantly putting herself down, conscious about her weight, unable to take a compliment, and always running away. I love a man who chases after a woman but how much is too much?
Again, it may be a "me not you" kinda thing but I just didn't connect with Cate and her 100 bad decisions and insecurities...good thing that Blane Steele was worth every moment spent in this read!!!
December 20, 2016
A risky write for me, I love this story.
Grab Blaine and Caterina everywhere!
www.rachelblaufeld.com/dolce
Grab Blaine and Caterina everywhere!
www.rachelblaufeld.com/dolce
January 12, 2016
5 Get in the Game Stars
Basketball. Fit guys in shorts running up and down the court. Jumping, dribbling, sweating...and that's in the stands. Basketball is a fast paced game that leaves no time to day dream. Gotta have your head in the game.
Warning: This is the second book in the Series. It can easily be read as a stand alone. Just make sure you go back and read the first book, Verite. It is awesome.
Catie wants to be a voice. A voice on the radio. A voice for women. But before she can make her dreams come true, she must needs a degree, experience, those small details. Catie takes a job as an intern at her college radio station. She is working for a jerk. A sexist shock jock. Not the kind of job a Women's Study Major was expecting.
Blane is the big man on campus. And I do mean big. He is the star of the basketball team. The one sure to bring them a championship and jump into the NBA. When he makes a bet with his friend the jerk radio guy, he sets himself up for failure. No women until the season is over? Blane can't go a weekend without a ball babe. The whole season?
When Blane sees Catie, he finds a new reason to hate that bet.
Some strange surge of protectiveness came over me. Yeah, I barely knew the chick but she was all kinds of cool and spunky. I liked the way she swore and wasn't ashamed of her clumsy self.
Not to mention her curves. Catie has curves. And she takes her classes and goals very seriously. As do her professors and classmates.
If they knew I'd flirted with a jock? Ugh
Catie's life takes a turn she doesn't expect. One that can derail her plans. Her plans to speak for women. And that brings us to the question of the day.....Is the heart of feminism about women choosing for themselves? And what about if you have limited choices? Are their choices open for debate? For judgement?
Boys don't get out of the trailer park, Cate. Guys like me don't have a chance to go to school, to finish and get out, and the meet with agents and go pro. It just doesn't happen. It's a frickin fairy tale....
Ms Blaufeld has given us a great read. A story of love. Of finding yourself. Of empowering others to find themselves. Owning your choices. Because what separates those who get the breaks from those who don't? Is if Fate? And who can blame those whom fate doesn't smile on?
That's when I fell in love with Blane Steele....Hearing him speak about how lucky he was touched something deep inside me.
I loved Dolce. It is sweet. It is super sexy. But is it so much more. It is dares and tattoos. It is sex shops and lectures. It is hiding in the cheap seats watching basketball and wearing your lucky headband.
Catie and Blane are both blessed and trapped by their luck. By their fate. By their choices.
"I think that's the one." Blane pointed toward the sky at the sparkling star, bright in the midnight-blue sky. "That's the one that brought you to me."
Swoon. Just swoon.
Basketball. Fit guys in shorts running up and down the court. Jumping, dribbling, sweating...and that's in the stands. Basketball is a fast paced game that leaves no time to day dream. Gotta have your head in the game.
Warning: This is the second book in the Series. It can easily be read as a stand alone. Just make sure you go back and read the first book, Verite. It is awesome.
Catie wants to be a voice. A voice on the radio. A voice for women. But before she can make her dreams come true, she must needs a degree, experience, those small details. Catie takes a job as an intern at her college radio station. She is working for a jerk. A sexist shock jock. Not the kind of job a Women's Study Major was expecting.
Blane is the big man on campus. And I do mean big. He is the star of the basketball team. The one sure to bring them a championship and jump into the NBA. When he makes a bet with his friend the jerk radio guy, he sets himself up for failure. No women until the season is over? Blane can't go a weekend without a ball babe. The whole season?
When Blane sees Catie, he finds a new reason to hate that bet.
Some strange surge of protectiveness came over me. Yeah, I barely knew the chick but she was all kinds of cool and spunky. I liked the way she swore and wasn't ashamed of her clumsy self.
Not to mention her curves. Catie has curves. And she takes her classes and goals very seriously. As do her professors and classmates.
If they knew I'd flirted with a jock? Ugh
Catie's life takes a turn she doesn't expect. One that can derail her plans. Her plans to speak for women. And that brings us to the question of the day.....Is the heart of feminism about women choosing for themselves? And what about if you have limited choices? Are their choices open for debate? For judgement?
Boys don't get out of the trailer park, Cate. Guys like me don't have a chance to go to school, to finish and get out, and the meet with agents and go pro. It just doesn't happen. It's a frickin fairy tale....
Ms Blaufeld has given us a great read. A story of love. Of finding yourself. Of empowering others to find themselves. Owning your choices. Because what separates those who get the breaks from those who don't? Is if Fate? And who can blame those whom fate doesn't smile on?
That's when I fell in love with Blane Steele....Hearing him speak about how lucky he was touched something deep inside me.
I loved Dolce. It is sweet. It is super sexy. But is it so much more. It is dares and tattoos. It is sex shops and lectures. It is hiding in the cheap seats watching basketball and wearing your lucky headband.
Catie and Blane are both blessed and trapped by their luck. By their fate. By their choices.
"I think that's the one." Blane pointed toward the sky at the sparkling star, bright in the midnight-blue sky. "That's the one that brought you to me."
Swoon. Just swoon.
February 1, 2016
Dolce by Rachel Blaufeld
Review 4.75
This standalone, contemporary/”sports romance” novel, takes us back to Hafton University (if you’ve read Verite, it takes place a few years after Tiberus’ graduates). We meet Caterina “Cate” “Catie” Presto, a Women’s Studies major and Blane (Stealer) Steele is Hafton’s latest basketball star. Not only is he a stealer of the ball in a game, but also a stealer of hearts, hence the nickname. How unlikely of a pair these two make, but Blane is immediately smitten with the curvy brunette at the school’s radio show, especially since her douchebag of a boss, Sonny, somehow belittles Cate. After making a ridiculous on-air bet Blane makes with Sonny, Blane is not even sure how he’s going to keep from losing that bet when he’s so hot for the Cuban/Italian American spitfire.
Although Blane comes off like your typical playboy, he does have a sweet side: I’d been bored with the pussy parade for a while, and wasn’t sure why, now I knew. Apparently, I enjoyed a side of brain with my women. At least, a half portion of wit and an appetizer of snark. Who can’t love a guy when he puts it in perspective so eloquently lol. Blane gave up his right to be drafted in his junior year, he decided to get his degree coming from a trailer park, he wants something to fall back on after his time with the NBA.
Cate is my spirit animal. Why you may ask? She swears like a sailor and construction worker all rolled into one. I have to mention my dislike Cate’s mother and sisters. Because of their ridicule of her growing up, she doesn’t see her true sex appeal, the one that Blane obviously see in her.
As mentioned, Cate is a Women’s Studies major, so having her work as an intern with a sexist pig like Sonny, is an oxymoron altogether. Yet, she wants to be heard regarding women’s issues, so therefore, she takes the condescending comments with a grain of salt. Her opinion on feminism is a little different that her over-the-top professor’s opinion, one that will eventually get her kicked out of her major, but also writes a kick ass thesis in the true form of what she believes feminism is in this day in age. Now how Catie approached how she was going to handle the thesis is where I had my “WTF” moment. I understood why she did it, I just didn’t agree with how she kept it from Blane. I can positively say that the chase between these two characters was heartwarming to see.
This is my fourth Rachel Blaufeld book. Her writing is exceptional and will keep you guessing how the storyline will follow through (WTF moment). The angst moments and emotional journey Ms. Blaufeld takes me through, keeps me riveted throughout my read and I don’t want to put my IPad down. Even though she’s writing about college-aged individuals, she writes everyday individuals that we would probably know in real life. And although it’s “sports romance” it’s not the theme of the book. You will even grow to like her secondary characters. Rachel Blaufeld is one those authors that I love reading from and I can always count on her putting a smile on my face.
*An ARC was provided for an honest review.
http://afterdarkbooklovers.com/2016/0...
For more reviews, visit
Review 4.75
This standalone, contemporary/”sports romance” novel, takes us back to Hafton University (if you’ve read Verite, it takes place a few years after Tiberus’ graduates). We meet Caterina “Cate” “Catie” Presto, a Women’s Studies major and Blane (Stealer) Steele is Hafton’s latest basketball star. Not only is he a stealer of the ball in a game, but also a stealer of hearts, hence the nickname. How unlikely of a pair these two make, but Blane is immediately smitten with the curvy brunette at the school’s radio show, especially since her douchebag of a boss, Sonny, somehow belittles Cate. After making a ridiculous on-air bet Blane makes with Sonny, Blane is not even sure how he’s going to keep from losing that bet when he’s so hot for the Cuban/Italian American spitfire.
Although Blane comes off like your typical playboy, he does have a sweet side: I’d been bored with the pussy parade for a while, and wasn’t sure why, now I knew. Apparently, I enjoyed a side of brain with my women. At least, a half portion of wit and an appetizer of snark. Who can’t love a guy when he puts it in perspective so eloquently lol. Blane gave up his right to be drafted in his junior year, he decided to get his degree coming from a trailer park, he wants something to fall back on after his time with the NBA.
Cate is my spirit animal. Why you may ask? She swears like a sailor and construction worker all rolled into one. I have to mention my dislike Cate’s mother and sisters. Because of their ridicule of her growing up, she doesn’t see her true sex appeal, the one that Blane obviously see in her.
As mentioned, Cate is a Women’s Studies major, so having her work as an intern with a sexist pig like Sonny, is an oxymoron altogether. Yet, she wants to be heard regarding women’s issues, so therefore, she takes the condescending comments with a grain of salt. Her opinion on feminism is a little different that her over-the-top professor’s opinion, one that will eventually get her kicked out of her major, but also writes a kick ass thesis in the true form of what she believes feminism is in this day in age. Now how Catie approached how she was going to handle the thesis is where I had my “WTF” moment. I understood why she did it, I just didn’t agree with how she kept it from Blane. I can positively say that the chase between these two characters was heartwarming to see.
This is my fourth Rachel Blaufeld book. Her writing is exceptional and will keep you guessing how the storyline will follow through (WTF moment). The angst moments and emotional journey Ms. Blaufeld takes me through, keeps me riveted throughout my read and I don’t want to put my IPad down. Even though she’s writing about college-aged individuals, she writes everyday individuals that we would probably know in real life. And although it’s “sports romance” it’s not the theme of the book. You will even grow to like her secondary characters. Rachel Blaufeld is one those authors that I love reading from and I can always count on her putting a smile on my face.
*An ARC was provided for an honest review.
http://afterdarkbooklovers.com/2016/0...
For more reviews, visit
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2016
This book takes place several years after Vérité, and features one manwhore with big basketball dreams, and one feisty feminist. A match made in heaven, lol. Their first meeting, as you may expect, is anything but smooth. Both are egged on or humiliated at the hands of the college's shock jock, Sonny. Both can't forget the moment, or each other.
I really liked Blane's character. After years of dipping his stick in many a ball baby (basketball groupies), he's grown tired of the meaningless sex. When the curvy Cuban/Italian girl catches his attention, there is no looking back. Yes, it's abrupt change, but he doesn't play games with her and thankfully there is no unnecessary drama with former woman. He is just what the insecure Caterina "Catie" needs.
After spending years being belittled and bullied by her mom and sisters, she has low self-esteem and is extremely body conscious. But for the comments of others and from Blane's POV, you can tell, whatever she sees wrong, others don't. Blane loves every one of her curves, even though she's the opposite type of girl that he's liked in the past. His interests run deeper than looks. Her spitfire personality at times and dirty mouth, amuse and intrigue him even more.
While the two play a bit of a cat and mouse game, Catie's major in women's studies is a big focus of this book. I'm all for women's rights, fighting the glass ceiling, etc. but Catie's teacher is over the topic in her dramatics for the subject. Apparently, Catie's social life is judged upon in the class room and her differing opinions on feminism, backfire big time. Rather than give up on her stance, she fights back, going further with her thesis and making personal sacrifices for the story. Although I didn't totally agree with how she handled the Blane situation, I liked what she did for her new group of friends and how she stood up to a controversial subject.
The road is bumpy and both of them face unwanted media attention, but the strength of their character, allows them to come out of it all in a better situation. Catie gets her redemption and Blane achieves his dream, delivered to the reader in a sweet HEA.
Side note: LOC 571, thank you Rachel! Luv ya!
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
I really liked Blane's character. After years of dipping his stick in many a ball baby (basketball groupies), he's grown tired of the meaningless sex. When the curvy Cuban/Italian girl catches his attention, there is no looking back. Yes, it's abrupt change, but he doesn't play games with her and thankfully there is no unnecessary drama with former woman. He is just what the insecure Caterina "Catie" needs.
After spending years being belittled and bullied by her mom and sisters, she has low self-esteem and is extremely body conscious. But for the comments of others and from Blane's POV, you can tell, whatever she sees wrong, others don't. Blane loves every one of her curves, even though she's the opposite type of girl that he's liked in the past. His interests run deeper than looks. Her spitfire personality at times and dirty mouth, amuse and intrigue him even more.
While the two play a bit of a cat and mouse game, Catie's major in women's studies is a big focus of this book. I'm all for women's rights, fighting the glass ceiling, etc. but Catie's teacher is over the topic in her dramatics for the subject. Apparently, Catie's social life is judged upon in the class room and her differing opinions on feminism, backfire big time. Rather than give up on her stance, she fights back, going further with her thesis and making personal sacrifices for the story. Although I didn't totally agree with how she handled the Blane situation, I liked what she did for her new group of friends and how she stood up to a controversial subject.
The road is bumpy and both of them face unwanted media attention, but the strength of their character, allows them to come out of it all in a better situation. Catie gets her redemption and Blane achieves his dream, delivered to the reader in a sweet HEA.
Side note: LOC 571, thank you Rachel! Luv ya!
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
January 27, 2016
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
DOLCE was a book that pleasantly surprised me. I wasn't sure what I was getting into when college radio station intern Catie met Hafton College basketball superstar Blane Steele, but it definitely was so much more than the blurb led me to believe.
Catie didn't have a lot of self-confidence, despite being a women's studies major. Beaten down by her mother and sisters ideals on what's perfect, she isn't comfortable with attention (positive or negative) from members of the opposite sex. so when she meets Blane while he's being interviewed at the radio station, she can't believe the small bit of attention he paid to her. And when he began showing up where she was and making her secret dreams come true, she didn't put a lot of stock in Blane actually liking her. Her professor and her boss at the radio station didn't help matters at all, pumping up her insecurities.
Blane had an uphill battle when it came to Catie (or Cate as he liked to call her). He was captivated by her the minute the met. He didn't let her ignoring him push him away and he did his best to make sure she knew he was there for her. He was constantly reassuring her that he wanted her, all of her, curves and all. But despite Blane's assurances, Cate ends up being the biggest obstacle in their relationship. But Blane ends up proving he is the ultimate hero by giving the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with the space she needs. It kills him, but him giving her space to figure things out, made it really, really hard for me not to love Blane.
I had a hard time putting DOLCE down. The characters were charming and the storyline had me eagerly turning pages to find out what happened next. Rachel Blaufeld has created a world that I thoroughly enjoyed (and has me going to Amazon to pick up the first book in the series). If you're looking for a new adult read that's sexy and engaging, definitely pick up DOLCE.
DOLCE was a book that pleasantly surprised me. I wasn't sure what I was getting into when college radio station intern Catie met Hafton College basketball superstar Blane Steele, but it definitely was so much more than the blurb led me to believe.
Catie didn't have a lot of self-confidence, despite being a women's studies major. Beaten down by her mother and sisters ideals on what's perfect, she isn't comfortable with attention (positive or negative) from members of the opposite sex. so when she meets Blane while he's being interviewed at the radio station, she can't believe the small bit of attention he paid to her. And when he began showing up where she was and making her secret dreams come true, she didn't put a lot of stock in Blane actually liking her. Her professor and her boss at the radio station didn't help matters at all, pumping up her insecurities.
Blane had an uphill battle when it came to Catie (or Cate as he liked to call her). He was captivated by her the minute the met. He didn't let her ignoring him push him away and he did his best to make sure she knew he was there for her. He was constantly reassuring her that he wanted her, all of her, curves and all. But despite Blane's assurances, Cate ends up being the biggest obstacle in their relationship. But Blane ends up proving he is the ultimate hero by giving the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with the space she needs. It kills him, but him giving her space to figure things out, made it really, really hard for me not to love Blane.
I had a hard time putting DOLCE down. The characters were charming and the storyline had me eagerly turning pages to find out what happened next. Rachel Blaufeld has created a world that I thoroughly enjoyed (and has me going to Amazon to pick up the first book in the series). If you're looking for a new adult read that's sexy and engaging, definitely pick up DOLCE.
January 13, 2016
I am totally loving this series from Rachel Blaufeld. Each focuses on a star college basketball player and the woman he can't get enough of.
This is Blane's story and I was hooked from the start. He falls hard and fast for a feisty yet surprisingly unassuming woman in Catie. They couldn't be more different not only in appearance but in their goals. With Catie on a mission to become the female Howard Stern, so starts her journey of keeping her true nature in check while she chases her dream.
I loved Catie and her less than model-like qualities. A vertically-challenged spitfire who was told by her mother and sisters to placate men. But with Blane, she not only doesn't care to surrender to his man-whore ways but gives him a run for his money. They have wonderful banter and there is true respect between them that even Blane is surprised about.
There are some scenes that caught me off guard but the author delivers a wonderful story-line like nothing I've read before.
Her characters, even as college students, are never whiny or immature. They carry themselves in an age-appropriate way and I find myself in awe of what they manage to accomplish. This is a great love story that also offers a chance to delve into some social issues...all presented beautifully I might add.
The perfect follow-up to Verite, I'm thoroughly enjoying getting to know these 'Ballers' one at a time.
Simply well done as usual.
A solid 5 stars.
This is Blane's story and I was hooked from the start. He falls hard and fast for a feisty yet surprisingly unassuming woman in Catie. They couldn't be more different not only in appearance but in their goals. With Catie on a mission to become the female Howard Stern, so starts her journey of keeping her true nature in check while she chases her dream.
I loved Catie and her less than model-like qualities. A vertically-challenged spitfire who was told by her mother and sisters to placate men. But with Blane, she not only doesn't care to surrender to his man-whore ways but gives him a run for his money. They have wonderful banter and there is true respect between them that even Blane is surprised about.
There are some scenes that caught me off guard but the author delivers a wonderful story-line like nothing I've read before.
Her characters, even as college students, are never whiny or immature. They carry themselves in an age-appropriate way and I find myself in awe of what they manage to accomplish. This is a great love story that also offers a chance to delve into some social issues...all presented beautifully I might add.
The perfect follow-up to Verite, I'm thoroughly enjoying getting to know these 'Ballers' one at a time.
Simply well done as usual.
A solid 5 stars.
January 29, 2016
Rachel Blaufeld has another hit on her hands in her Love At Center Court Series. It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading Verite just because the series is just that awesome.
Dolce is about Catie and Blane. It takes you from their first encounter through all their ups and downs and all the craziness that happens. I love how this isn’t an instant love fest and these two keep their priorities in order too. They just don’t just get blinded by their feelings.
What I loved the most about this book was the issue that Rachel brought to the forefront – feminism. Rachel takes a very unique take on this and I absolutely loved how she ran with it.
Catie is very feisty and opinionated young woman. However, we watch her grow and finally find her “place” in this world. Blane is known as the ladies man on campus but at some point he knows he needs to grow up. And he starts to realize that and things around him change. These two have very unique backgrounds and I think many people will relate to them on man levels.
Rachel wrote an amazing story with fantastic characters. I loved the banter between everyone, both the main and secondary characters. They all added their own distinct characteristics to the story. The camaraderie between the players was perfect for any sports team. And even the people that became close friends of Catie’s, they all brought their own qualities to the story.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Dolce is about Catie and Blane. It takes you from their first encounter through all their ups and downs and all the craziness that happens. I love how this isn’t an instant love fest and these two keep their priorities in order too. They just don’t just get blinded by their feelings.
What I loved the most about this book was the issue that Rachel brought to the forefront – feminism. Rachel takes a very unique take on this and I absolutely loved how she ran with it.
Catie is very feisty and opinionated young woman. However, we watch her grow and finally find her “place” in this world. Blane is known as the ladies man on campus but at some point he knows he needs to grow up. And he starts to realize that and things around him change. These two have very unique backgrounds and I think many people will relate to them on man levels.
Rachel wrote an amazing story with fantastic characters. I loved the banter between everyone, both the main and secondary characters. They all added their own distinct characteristics to the story. The camaraderie between the players was perfect for any sports team. And even the people that became close friends of Catie’s, they all brought their own qualities to the story.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
January 22, 2016
Romance books don't always hold my attention. All the mushy love stuff kind of makes me gag most of the time. So reading this book was more than welcome. It's angsty, a little sarcastic and some funny.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love it when characters are more normal than fantasy. Normal characters like these are so easy to read about and like.
I don't really know how to convey this book to you. As always, I am not one to retell the story for you. That is what the blurb and other reviews already give you. I am having a hard time putting my feelings and thoughts into this one without really going into the book. I can tell you that I found myself smiling and chuckling so many times, one would think that I liked this book. Wait, I did! Very much.
I am such a huge fan of angst. Angst makes stories more real and interesting. No one wants unicorns and rainbows all of the time. This book is such a great balance of angst and self-realization that I was hooked from the beginning. I am a sucker for both. I love seeing the characters come into their own progressively throughout a story. This one is so well-paced that I didn't have to bat an eyelash to keep up or will it to slow down.
Overall, this is a book that I recommend to just about anyone. It's not too sexy that you will want to gag. It's not too angsty where you start to even hate yourself (yes, I have read some like that). It's the all around perfect read on a lazy Saturday.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love it when characters are more normal than fantasy. Normal characters like these are so easy to read about and like.
I don't really know how to convey this book to you. As always, I am not one to retell the story for you. That is what the blurb and other reviews already give you. I am having a hard time putting my feelings and thoughts into this one without really going into the book. I can tell you that I found myself smiling and chuckling so many times, one would think that I liked this book. Wait, I did! Very much.
I am such a huge fan of angst. Angst makes stories more real and interesting. No one wants unicorns and rainbows all of the time. This book is such a great balance of angst and self-realization that I was hooked from the beginning. I am a sucker for both. I love seeing the characters come into their own progressively throughout a story. This one is so well-paced that I didn't have to bat an eyelash to keep up or will it to slow down.
Overall, this is a book that I recommend to just about anyone. It's not too sexy that you will want to gag. It's not too angsty where you start to even hate yourself (yes, I have read some like that). It's the all around perfect read on a lazy Saturday.
February 1, 2016
Another wonderful read from Rachel Blaufeld!! I loved the story of man-whore, start BB player Blane and good girl, feminist power protector Cate.
And it all started on a DARE..... Albeit an non-traditional way to come together, I loved how their relationship unfolded from friendship to love. The plot twist was good and it didn't deter too much and too long to make the story drag out. I just loved this book - a perfect blend of sports and love.
Bravo Rachel ! Can't wait for more!!
And it all started on a DARE..... Albeit an non-traditional way to come together, I loved how their relationship unfolded from friendship to love. The plot twist was good and it didn't deter too much and too long to make the story drag out. I just loved this book - a perfect blend of sports and love.
Bravo Rachel ! Can't wait for more!!
January 21, 2016
I’ve been with Rachel from the beginning. I’ve read all her books- usually beta reading them. And I know I have said it before but she has come so far since her first book. It’s amazing to see her growth and development as a writer.
I love this series!! I really do. Anyone who knows me knows that Book 1, Verite, is one of my favorite books EVER. I mean ever. I shouted from the rooftops how much I loved Verite for months. Ok, it wasn’t the rooftops, it was all over social media. But you get the point. Dolce, which is book 2 in the series, did not disappoint.
Dolce picks up a few years after Verite left off. Here we have a new set of characters but they are all as lovable as the ones in Verite. Blaine is Hafton University’s star basketball player. He’s also a big manwhore. Catie is an intern at the University’s radio station. She’s also a feminist.
Complete opposites, right? Right. Blane comes across Catie at the radio station and that is that. He wants her. Of course she isn’t impressed with his advances. Throw in a bet from the radio station’s manager and we have the start of a fabulous story.
Blane is awesome. He really is. Besides being hot, he’s funny as hell. Catie is great. She’s not super thin and not super pretty and I loved that about her. She stands up for women and what they deserve and she will do whatever it takes. She’s really sassy and strong willed.
Rachel took the story to a place I never really saw coming. No exaggeration. I never saw the plot going where it did. I was reading. Moving along. Then I was like what?? I messaged her and was like ummmm. You did what?? I honestly would have never thought of taking the story where she did. It was great. So kudos for creativity.
Dolce makes you feel good. You will fall in love with the story and the characters. It’s sweet, it’s funny, it has the right amount of angst. It’s great. And I thought the use of tweets made it really current day. Go one click and fall in love with Dolce!
I love this series!! I really do. Anyone who knows me knows that Book 1, Verite, is one of my favorite books EVER. I mean ever. I shouted from the rooftops how much I loved Verite for months. Ok, it wasn’t the rooftops, it was all over social media. But you get the point. Dolce, which is book 2 in the series, did not disappoint.
Dolce picks up a few years after Verite left off. Here we have a new set of characters but they are all as lovable as the ones in Verite. Blaine is Hafton University’s star basketball player. He’s also a big manwhore. Catie is an intern at the University’s radio station. She’s also a feminist.
Complete opposites, right? Right. Blane comes across Catie at the radio station and that is that. He wants her. Of course she isn’t impressed with his advances. Throw in a bet from the radio station’s manager and we have the start of a fabulous story.
Blane is awesome. He really is. Besides being hot, he’s funny as hell. Catie is great. She’s not super thin and not super pretty and I loved that about her. She stands up for women and what they deserve and she will do whatever it takes. She’s really sassy and strong willed.
Rachel took the story to a place I never really saw coming. No exaggeration. I never saw the plot going where it did. I was reading. Moving along. Then I was like what?? I messaged her and was like ummmm. You did what?? I honestly would have never thought of taking the story where she did. It was great. So kudos for creativity.
Dolce makes you feel good. You will fall in love with the story and the characters. It’s sweet, it’s funny, it has the right amount of angst. It’s great. And I thought the use of tweets made it really current day. Go one click and fall in love with Dolce!
January 11, 2016
4 Solid Stars!!!!
I was graciously gifted an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Now anyone who has read my reviews for this talented author's previous books knows that I love her stories, her writing, well, heck, just about everything:) If I am being honest, this story was no exception for me, that is, until the "twist" with Catie as far as her "secret project" was concerned and THAT was when my feelings faltered a bit. I guess I not only didn't like it, I just didn't get it and I couldn't move past it either:( For me, THAT was what ruined the 5 star read for me up until that part of the story.
OK, so what did I love....well, I LOVED Blane, I mean whoa, this guy was ALL that and more!!!!! I loved him from the start of the book and my love only intensified for him throughout:) Catie on the other hand, hmmmm, I truly liked her character a lot, that is, until she veered completely off the beaten path, for me anyways. I am sorry I still don't get that part of her story, I mean I can see the "research" BUT definitely not the "actual" research and I don't want to spoil anything but when you read, you will KNOW what that was. I simply couldn't move past it, wished it hadn't gone that far and hence, my 1 star deduction.
Now, the Epilogue, oh wow, as usual and in true Rachel Blaufeld fashion, she nailed it:) Am I still a huge fan of hers, heck yes and will I continue to read her books in the future, HELL YES!!! Listen just because I have my own personal "issue" with certain aspects of a book, it doesn't mean that everyone or anyone will have that same issue. For me, with the exception of that part of Catie's story, I loved it! The story flowed seamlessly and had some great banter amongst all of the secondary characters:)
I was graciously gifted an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Now anyone who has read my reviews for this talented author's previous books knows that I love her stories, her writing, well, heck, just about everything:) If I am being honest, this story was no exception for me, that is, until the "twist" with Catie as far as her "secret project" was concerned and THAT was when my feelings faltered a bit. I guess I not only didn't like it, I just didn't get it and I couldn't move past it either:( For me, THAT was what ruined the 5 star read for me up until that part of the story.
OK, so what did I love....well, I LOVED Blane, I mean whoa, this guy was ALL that and more!!!!! I loved him from the start of the book and my love only intensified for him throughout:) Catie on the other hand, hmmmm, I truly liked her character a lot, that is, until she veered completely off the beaten path, for me anyways. I am sorry I still don't get that part of her story, I mean I can see the "research" BUT definitely not the "actual" research and I don't want to spoil anything but when you read, you will KNOW what that was. I simply couldn't move past it, wished it hadn't gone that far and hence, my 1 star deduction.
Now, the Epilogue, oh wow, as usual and in true Rachel Blaufeld fashion, she nailed it:) Am I still a huge fan of hers, heck yes and will I continue to read her books in the future, HELL YES!!! Listen just because I have my own personal "issue" with certain aspects of a book, it doesn't mean that everyone or anyone will have that same issue. For me, with the exception of that part of Catie's story, I loved it! The story flowed seamlessly and had some great banter amongst all of the secondary characters:)
January 21, 2016
Dolce, Rachel Blaufeld's second entry in the Love at Center Court series, returns us to the campus of Hafton State University and takes us back to the basketball courts. Set a few years later than Vérité, Dolce gives us the opposites attract/friends-to-lovers story of basketball player Blane and radio intern Caterina, and there's great chemistry between them!
Though this is the second book in the series, you can read this as a standalone and you get enough background info so that you don't feel like you've missed out on anything. I really like Rachel Blaufeld's writing style--she gives you a great set-up and character arc that makes for a page-turning read. I also love how she layers in emotions and threads the story with interesting secondary characters who are never simply window dressing. Blane and Caterina's love story has enough highs and lows (with perfect hiccups in between) that you keep cheering for them throughout the story--even when sometimes they both make you want to scream. :)
A fun, page-turning read! I'm not usually a sports romance lover, but really enjoyed Dolce--and I think you will too. :)
Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Though this is the second book in the series, you can read this as a standalone and you get enough background info so that you don't feel like you've missed out on anything. I really like Rachel Blaufeld's writing style--she gives you a great set-up and character arc that makes for a page-turning read. I also love how she layers in emotions and threads the story with interesting secondary characters who are never simply window dressing. Blane and Caterina's love story has enough highs and lows (with perfect hiccups in between) that you keep cheering for them throughout the story--even when sometimes they both make you want to scream. :)
A fun, page-turning read! I'm not usually a sports romance lover, but really enjoyed Dolce--and I think you will too. :)
Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 25, 2016
This is my very first read from this author and I'm really pleased or wow'd. The story is typical of its genre but I feel like what really sets it apart from others is the connection both characters have to one another, their pull or chemistry brings you right in and you easily find yourself swooning over every small touch, whisper, and every little thing that happens between them. I feel like this is something of the past for New Adult books and it’s rare to find a story that isn’t only about sex but about the physical attractions that form from friendship. Don’t get me wrong either, there are plenty of sexy times it’s just not the center of the story or the reason for their relationship.
Blane is a typical college jock, he loves sports, party’s a lot, and he gets around. Catie's short curvy and in woman studies, she not your typical cutesy little heroine. But she’s also not your typical feminist either. When they meet there’s a pull, even though he’s decided to keep away from girls this season, Blane still proceeds to go for Catie.
I'm delightfully surprised with the story and writing and I look forward to more from her and I’m so excited to find a new author who I know I’m going to love.
Blane is a typical college jock, he loves sports, party’s a lot, and he gets around. Catie's short curvy and in woman studies, she not your typical cutesy little heroine. But she’s also not your typical feminist either. When they meet there’s a pull, even though he’s decided to keep away from girls this season, Blane still proceeds to go for Catie.
I'm delightfully surprised with the story and writing and I look forward to more from her and I’m so excited to find a new author who I know I’m going to love.
February 6, 2016
Another great read from Rachel Blaufeld! The right mix of angst, romance and humour made for a perfect Friday evening date!! ♥
April 17, 2016
Verite was the first book that I have read from Rachel Blaufeld and ever since then you could say Verite started my Blaufeld obsession. As a fan of Ms. Blaufeld, I couldn’t wait to be enchanted with her latest installment to Love at Center Court Series.
In this basketball sports romance, Rachel has taken her readers back to Hafton University where another rising sports star will take center court as he dribbles his way to our hearts. Blaine “Steeler” Steele is Hafton’s University star basketball player. He has the abilities to make it to the pro and the looks to have any ball babies that he wants. Well, not everyone precisely. Caterina is a feisty sassy heroine who doesn’t think she is worthy of the school’s Golden Boy. But with his charm and wit, Blaine soon finds himself stealing the heart of Catie and showing her that she is truly beautiful inside and out. Can this blooming romance be a slam dunk? Or will they find themselves out of bounds and fouling out?
Dolce was a sweet, heart-tugging, raw, and beautiful love story. As with any sports romance, you usually can predict the storyline but if you ever read a Rachel Blaufeld book then you are well aware that Ms. Blaufeld has own her playbook. And in this playbook, Ms. Blaufeld has perfectly timed, orchestrated, and created a story that is full of surprises and twist to keep readers on their toes. You gotta love a story where romance, friendship and raw emotions takes center court. So did Rachel hit that game winning shot with Dolce? Absolutely. Rachel Blaufeld has definitely scored major points in my book and has bump herself up on my ranking of go to authors. The writing is crisp, smart, fun, and oh sinfully sexy that she will make any reader’s heart skip a beat as she dribbles herself to love a story that is championship material.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Rachel Blaufeld
February 2, 2016
Have you ever read a book that you put off reading, not because you weren't loving it, but because you knew the heartache was coming…and you didn't know if you'd survive it?
I have. I just finished it, actually.
Dolce, the second Rachel Blaufeld book I've read and loved—the first being, Vérité, book one in the Love at Center Court series—was a little hard on my feels, if I'm honest. Oh, don't get me wrong. I ADORED this book, but…I didn't want to hurt. I didn't want Blane ‘The Stealer’ Steele to hurt. Hell, even though I struggled with her at times, I didn't want Caterina to hurt either. Sonny? Eh, I kind of wanted him to hurt—do you think that makes me a bad person?! *bites nails*
Dolce is something of a roller coaster ride. As I touched on above, I found myself frustrated with Cate on many occasions. (Don't even get me started on Sonny…) When I think about some of her choices…my stomach still drops, and I've finished the book. I know how it turns out. But I'm still affected by it in a physical way. Having said that, I sympathized with her also. She wasn't always treated fairly, and I loved that she wasn't a typical romance heroine—all smooth skin and perfect lines. I was proud of her for sticking by her choices but…ugh, I just hated to see the fallout. Mainly because Blane did what he does best.
The Stealer stole my heart.
This was no ordinary baller. He was deeper than I would have guessed, sweet as the title suggests, and just….right. IDK, he was this amazing blend of arrogant star and smitten man, and he proved, time and again, that he had a good heart and an open mind. I loved him so much, I couldn't stomach the thought of seeing him get hurt.
To that end, I briefly wished for a little more in the way of explanation as Dolce headed into its conclusion. There was one point that I wished to see clarified—for Blane’s sake, and for Cate’s too—but, in the end, it didn't really matter. Because this book was fabulous. There's no denying that fact. Ms. Blaufeld has a way with words that just draws you in. So much so that, even when you're actively trying to ignore them to save your heart, you cannot stop thinking about those very words.
It was worth each pang in my beleaguered heart to get the end of Dolce. Although I never seriously considered putting this book down for good, I'm glad that my compulsion to finish got me across the line sooner rather than later. I am glad I survived. ~ Beth, 5 stars
I have. I just finished it, actually.
Dolce, the second Rachel Blaufeld book I've read and loved—the first being, Vérité, book one in the Love at Center Court series—was a little hard on my feels, if I'm honest. Oh, don't get me wrong. I ADORED this book, but…I didn't want to hurt. I didn't want Blane ‘The Stealer’ Steele to hurt. Hell, even though I struggled with her at times, I didn't want Caterina to hurt either. Sonny? Eh, I kind of wanted him to hurt—do you think that makes me a bad person?! *bites nails*
Dolce is something of a roller coaster ride. As I touched on above, I found myself frustrated with Cate on many occasions. (Don't even get me started on Sonny…) When I think about some of her choices…my stomach still drops, and I've finished the book. I know how it turns out. But I'm still affected by it in a physical way. Having said that, I sympathized with her also. She wasn't always treated fairly, and I loved that she wasn't a typical romance heroine—all smooth skin and perfect lines. I was proud of her for sticking by her choices but…ugh, I just hated to see the fallout. Mainly because Blane did what he does best.
The Stealer stole my heart.
This was no ordinary baller. He was deeper than I would have guessed, sweet as the title suggests, and just….right. IDK, he was this amazing blend of arrogant star and smitten man, and he proved, time and again, that he had a good heart and an open mind. I loved him so much, I couldn't stomach the thought of seeing him get hurt.
To that end, I briefly wished for a little more in the way of explanation as Dolce headed into its conclusion. There was one point that I wished to see clarified—for Blane’s sake, and for Cate’s too—but, in the end, it didn't really matter. Because this book was fabulous. There's no denying that fact. Ms. Blaufeld has a way with words that just draws you in. So much so that, even when you're actively trying to ignore them to save your heart, you cannot stop thinking about those very words.
It was worth each pang in my beleaguered heart to get the end of Dolce. Although I never seriously considered putting this book down for good, I'm glad that my compulsion to finish got me across the line sooner rather than later. I am glad I survived. ~ Beth, 5 stars
January 24, 2016
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Here we have a new star on Hafton University's men's basketball team--Blane "the Stealer" Steele (not to be confused with Blane Maxwell from the first book)--who ends up being forced into accepting a dare from the campus shock jock: no sex in order to win a championship. And why is he forced into it? Because he defended the radio station's intern, Caterina "Catie" Presto. There's something about the petite and curvy sophomore that calls to the junior hoopster and student, but Blane can't really do much about his attraction to and curiosity of the girl he calls Cate, no thanks to the dare. So, they stick to being friends...or at least they try, an exercise that becomes increasingly difficult since they're both drawn to one another in a way they've never experienced with anyone else. They may appear to be different but they simply click.
The love story itself wasn't riddled with too many complications, but add in a power-hungry college deejay, a college professor who's a feminist Nazi, and nosy ball babies and well-meaning friends and you've got yourself a unique romance. Rachel Blaufeld excels in giving readers something different each time she publishes a book. Even when it has an air of familiarity about it, she adds just enough to make it stand out from the crowd, and that's exactly what she's done here. It's set in a college and is about sports, but that's not what the book is all about. Dolce was about the pressures students--whether athletes or not--encounter and how they can transcend the labels and expectations placed upon them. It's also about love and acceptance and how opening yourself to both should never be a hardship or a chore. Five-plus stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Here we have a new star on Hafton University's men's basketball team--Blane "the Stealer" Steele (not to be confused with Blane Maxwell from the first book)--who ends up being forced into accepting a dare from the campus shock jock: no sex in order to win a championship. And why is he forced into it? Because he defended the radio station's intern, Caterina "Catie" Presto. There's something about the petite and curvy sophomore that calls to the junior hoopster and student, but Blane can't really do much about his attraction to and curiosity of the girl he calls Cate, no thanks to the dare. So, they stick to being friends...or at least they try, an exercise that becomes increasingly difficult since they're both drawn to one another in a way they've never experienced with anyone else. They may appear to be different but they simply click.
The love story itself wasn't riddled with too many complications, but add in a power-hungry college deejay, a college professor who's a feminist Nazi, and nosy ball babies and well-meaning friends and you've got yourself a unique romance. Rachel Blaufeld excels in giving readers something different each time she publishes a book. Even when it has an air of familiarity about it, she adds just enough to make it stand out from the crowd, and that's exactly what she's done here. It's set in a college and is about sports, but that's not what the book is all about. Dolce was about the pressures students--whether athletes or not--encounter and how they can transcend the labels and expectations placed upon them. It's also about love and acceptance and how opening yourself to both should never be a hardship or a chore. Five-plus stars. ♥
January 25, 2016
Loved Blane! Review to come closer to release date.
This is Rachel Blaufeld’s second book in the Love at Center Court series. It is a stand-alone sports romance novel told in dual POV. I have read Rachel’s Crossroad Series and was looking forward to something a little different from her. This book follows a ficticious college basketball team and their NBA destined star, Blane Steele.
Blane is in his senior year at Hafton and has taken advantage of all the perks afforded his superstar status. Women flock to him. He expects to focus on his game, getting laid when he can and earning the championship. That is until a radio station intern happens to fall into his on air interview and gets caught up in a bet the disc jockey lays on him. The women studies major and secret sports fan, Catarina, spends a chunk of the book not feeling worthy of any attention, must less the advances of Blane. She seems willing to stand up for other women but has low self-esteem when it comes to anyone finding an interest in her.
This is a NA book and is filled with typical college pranks, parties and potty mouths. The book has a nice mix of humor and romance. It was nice to see Catie get her backbone as the book progressed. She kept her foul mouth but was eventually able to stand up for what she believed in. Blane was absolutely wonderful. Once he decided Catie was meant to be his, he became the perfect Southern gentleman. She was the first person he saw himself in a committed relationship with and tried very hard to convince her they were meant to be. After a rough “first time”, they are able to move on and eventual can’t keep their hands off each other.
There is some angst and drama near the end of the book. Eventually we get an HEA and a very sweet epilogue. Basketball is not my thing, typically, but I did enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more by this author.
ARC received for an honest review.
This is Rachel Blaufeld’s second book in the Love at Center Court series. It is a stand-alone sports romance novel told in dual POV. I have read Rachel’s Crossroad Series and was looking forward to something a little different from her. This book follows a ficticious college basketball team and their NBA destined star, Blane Steele.
Blane is in his senior year at Hafton and has taken advantage of all the perks afforded his superstar status. Women flock to him. He expects to focus on his game, getting laid when he can and earning the championship. That is until a radio station intern happens to fall into his on air interview and gets caught up in a bet the disc jockey lays on him. The women studies major and secret sports fan, Catarina, spends a chunk of the book not feeling worthy of any attention, must less the advances of Blane. She seems willing to stand up for other women but has low self-esteem when it comes to anyone finding an interest in her.
This is a NA book and is filled with typical college pranks, parties and potty mouths. The book has a nice mix of humor and romance. It was nice to see Catie get her backbone as the book progressed. She kept her foul mouth but was eventually able to stand up for what she believed in. Blane was absolutely wonderful. Once he decided Catie was meant to be his, he became the perfect Southern gentleman. She was the first person he saw himself in a committed relationship with and tried very hard to convince her they were meant to be. After a rough “first time”, they are able to move on and eventual can’t keep their hands off each other.
There is some angst and drama near the end of the book. Eventually we get an HEA and a very sweet epilogue. Basketball is not my thing, typically, but I did enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more by this author.
ARC received for an honest review.
January 25, 2016
Wow! What an interesting, thought-provoking, all-out provocative book! I really enjoyed the first book I read by this author, Vérité, and this was equally as impressive. The themes addressed in this book are not typically found in most romances: themes regarding stereotypes and how we perpetuate them, the idea of being cast in certain roles in our society and the desire to move out of those traditional roles, taking ownership of ones own destiny.
This was an excellent, excellent book. While I ultimately gave this a 5-star rating, I have to acknowledge the plot twist that I certainly didn't see coming. And while this plot twist didn't ultimately lessen my enjoyment of this stellar book, I can see how it might impact other readers in a much different way. I can completely understand the point that was being made here, both by the author and by Catie with a C. There's a small part of me that wants to argue that the point could've still been made without going the route she took but then I stopped to think about it. We live in a society that is often times very uncomfortable with facing certain truths and we find it far too easy to categorize and judge people in ways that enable us to feel better about ourselves. I think Professor Stanwick in the book was a perfect example of that, actually. So, I actively choose NOT to judge Catie's actions and applaud her, for her gutsy choices and for ultimately standing strong for what she believed in. She was a remarkable character, as was Blane and I thoroughly enjoyed going on their slightly rocky journey to happily-ever-after with them.
This was an excellent, excellent book. While I ultimately gave this a 5-star rating, I have to acknowledge the plot twist that I certainly didn't see coming. And while this plot twist didn't ultimately lessen my enjoyment of this stellar book, I can see how it might impact other readers in a much different way. I can completely understand the point that was being made here, both by the author and by Catie with a C. There's a small part of me that wants to argue that the point could've still been made without going the route she took but then I stopped to think about it. We live in a society that is often times very uncomfortable with facing certain truths and we find it far too easy to categorize and judge people in ways that enable us to feel better about ourselves. I think Professor Stanwick in the book was a perfect example of that, actually. So, I actively choose NOT to judge Catie's actions and applaud her, for her gutsy choices and for ultimately standing strong for what she believed in. She was a remarkable character, as was Blane and I thoroughly enjoyed going on their slightly rocky journey to happily-ever-after with them.
January 15, 2016
Here we are on another basketball journey to Hafton State University! Dolce is book 2 in the Love at Center Court series and takes place a few years after my man Tiberius dominated the court. This season's swoon worthy guy is none other than Blane Steele, lady's man extraordinaire. While on campus radio shock jock Sonny's (who has a way of pushing Blane's buttons) show, Blane meets Caterina, Sonny's intern and fellow Hafton student. Blane doesn't like how Sonny is treating Catie and finds himself in a double-dog dare that he can't go all season without women. Catie is a women's studies major who wants to clean up the radio station, but has to do what Sonny says in order to keep a position there. Since Blane witnessed what Sonny has Catie doing and let himself get talked into a double dare, they have no choice but to be friends and help each other out with their sticky situations. But the lines between friendship and more are soon crossed. Blane has never allowed himself to get too involved with a girl and Catie is feeling the wrath of an awful feminist professor. Can these two figure out how to have each other and their careers or with they be throwing up air balls?
I love the way Rachel Blaufeld writes her books! The emotions and the journey she takes us on is exactly what I want in a great book. She is excellent at developing secondary characters. So much more happens throughout this book, but I don't want to give too much away. While this book is book 2 in the series it can be read as a standalone.
I love the way Rachel Blaufeld writes her books! The emotions and the journey she takes us on is exactly what I want in a great book. She is excellent at developing secondary characters. So much more happens throughout this book, but I don't want to give too much away. While this book is book 2 in the series it can be read as a standalone.
January 21, 2016
What can I say? Miss Rachel did it again.. Dolce was just amazing!! Cate and Blaine were definitely an explosive couple from the start! I loved their chemistry, conversations and the way their story developed as a couple and individually!
Cate was definitely not the heroine that I expected.. I mean she swore like a sailor and defended her POV, but I definitely hated how her family treated her and how she let them I just wanted to hug her and help her out! Her interaction with Mr Boots just confirmed what I thought he was an ass and she deserved to be in his place!
Blaine was just awesome a basketball player that didn't let fame or anything get through his head and you could see his love for Cate was really true! how cool it was that he was from the South? lol I really enjoyed getting to know him!
Now Rachel knocked it out of the court with that plot twist.. I mean I thought it would happen, but it was just a theory.. I never expected it to actually happen!! so you have to read it to find out!! amazing work really I loved this book! so definitely 5 stars!! *ARC provided for an honest review*
Cate was definitely not the heroine that I expected.. I mean she swore like a sailor and defended her POV, but I definitely hated how her family treated her and how she let them I just wanted to hug her and help her out! Her interaction with Mr Boots just confirmed what I thought he was an ass and she deserved to be in his place!
Blaine was just awesome a basketball player that didn't let fame or anything get through his head and you could see his love for Cate was really true! how cool it was that he was from the South? lol I really enjoyed getting to know him!
Now Rachel knocked it out of the court with that plot twist.. I mean I thought it would happen, but it was just a theory.. I never expected it to actually happen!! so you have to read it to find out!! amazing work really I loved this book! so definitely 5 stars!! *ARC provided for an honest review*
January 22, 2016
Love, love, love...
I loved this book, it wasn't your typical story about a jock and a girl. The characters are not your typical stereotypes...they are the jock, the feminist but they are also so much more.
The story was so much more, the storyline is so much more...the feelings...you get what I'm saying...the whole book is just more..
Loved Cate & Blane, together and separate. They are hot, funny, sexy and loving together...swoon.
I loved this book, it wasn't your typical story about a jock and a girl. The characters are not your typical stereotypes...they are the jock, the feminist but they are also so much more.
The story was so much more, the storyline is so much more...the feelings...you get what I'm saying...the whole book is just more..
Loved Cate & Blane, together and separate. They are hot, funny, sexy and loving together...swoon.
January 26, 2016
I loved this book because it is risky.
The heroine does something unheard of in the name of her personal mission and falls in love while doing it. That couldn't be helped, but it made everything more complicated.
The hero is so sweet.
The heroine does something unheard of in the name of her personal mission and falls in love while doing it. That couldn't be helped, but it made everything more complicated.
The hero is so sweet.
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