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Hidden Falls #1

Making the Play

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T.J. Kline launches a brand new series with the charming story of a NFL player who finds love when he least expects it…

Grant McQuaid has dedicated his entire life to his football career. Now an injury threatens his place on the team and he’s forced to return home to rehabilitate. But when he meets his “biggest fan,” a precocious, blue-eyed, hearing impaired boy named James—and his beautiful mother, Bethany—Grant begins to question whether football is the future he still wants.

Bethany Mills has been doing just fine since her husband walked out on them… and she definitely doesn’t need another man to disappoint her—or her son. But when James runs into his hero at the park, Bethany admits there is a void in her son’s life that she just can’t fill. Her attraction to the handsome football star is undeniable, but a man in the limelight is the last thing she wants for herself, or James.

Grant doesn’t want to subject Bethany to the chaos of dating a professional athlete. But the more time he spends with her and James, the harder it is to resist making a play for her heart…

384 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 27, 2016

23 people are currently reading
500 people want to read

About the author

T.J. Kline

26 books437 followers
T.J. Kline has been making up stories since she was old enough to talk and put her first into book form when she was ten.

Since then, she has always loved a HEA and a good thriller. When life introduced her to horses and rodeos, she knew she'd found her calling writing contemporary small-town romances filled with love, drama and, of course, cowboys.

She currently lives in the foothills outside Yosemite National Park with the love of her life, adoring her three grown children from afar and enjoying her three horses, four dogs, five cats and a noisy bunch of hens.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for namericanwordcat.
2,440 reviews439 followers
January 7, 2017
I wanted to like this one. I didn't.

The heroine is too prickly for too long and beats the same drum of resistance. The hero is a guy going through a career change and well developed. I liked the child character a great deal and everything else about the book but I couldn't buy the romance. The writing is well done but not the development of the heroine.
Profile Image for Suze.
1,884 reviews1,298 followers
December 20, 2016
Bethany and her son James have moved to Hidden Falls to make a fresh start. Bethany's strategy is to keep to themselves, so nobody will be able to hurt their feelings again. When she and James go to the park one afternoon they meet Grant, the local football hero James likes so much. Grant is happy to spend time with both James and Bethany and goes out of his way to make them feel comfortable. Unfortunately he's also a public person and soon the press knows all about the beautiful teacher and her son, which is exactly the opposite of what Bethany wants. While Grant is falling in love with her she's fighting an inner battle, will she be able to let the football player into her life while seeing him might break her heart? And what about James, when Grant has to leave it will devastate the little boy. Can Bethany risk that?

Grant doesn't know if he can play football on a professional level again. After an injury he needed time to recover and there's a chance he might be forced to retire. There are a lot of uncertainties in his life and he has no idea what his future will look like. He knows he doesn't want to work at the family ranch, but he doesn't know if there will be opportunities to do something else. Before a visit to his doctor, to talk about his condition, he can't make any plans either. When he meets Bethany and James his feelings are becoming more mixed up. Will Grant's future be with them or will he continue being the well known football player who doesn't have time to come home? Do Grant and Bethany have a chance or is life too difficult for them to be together?

Making the Play is a wonderful romantic story. Bethany is stiff and closed off at first, but Grant knows exactly how to get through her barriers. He's great with James and he loves spending time with him. James is Bethany's weak spot. When her son is happy she melts. Bethany is a gorgeous woman who loves kids. She's caring, kind and patient and while she's a little frosty at first she secretly has a warm personality and a lovely sense of humor. Grant is a serious, but cheerful guy who's used to go after what he wants. He's trained hard to be a football player his entire life and before he met Bethany and James it was his first love. He didn't plan to fall for someone and the love he feels surprises him. That was amazing to see. I enjoyed reading about the instant bond between Grant and the young mother and her son. It's natural and sweet, which is something I liked a lot.

T.J. Kline's writing flows easily. She writes about emotions in a matter-of-fact way, which is very appealing. I loved Hidden Falls, it's a charming setting for a story. Bethany and Grant are easy to like, but James really steals the show. I enjoyed reading the adorable dialogue and it was heartwarming to see how Grant forms a connection with the little boy. Making the Play is a versatile and captivating story. It's a delightful book that put a big smile on my face.
Profile Image for Danielle.
1,339 reviews51 followers
October 12, 2016
A brand new series by Kline, yes please! Already I'm in love with this heartfelt story and wonderfully written characters. Grant is injured and wondering if he will return to the NFL but after meeting Bethany and her son he wonders if in fact that's the right thing for him.

I though this story was sweet and enjoyed how Grant fell for both Bethany and her son but it did seem a little on the fast side. I could see why she wanted to be careful I mean after all not only is he a famous football player but her ex did a real number on her so for that I felt for her.


Grant as a character was awesome and I fell in love with him right away. He was not some dumb jock but while he cares for Bethany he knows that she could do better then him but in all that I loved his sweetness and it showed throughout the entire story.


I'm excited about this new series and looking forward to meet Grants brothers. I like that they all have different job and Kline is showing close the family is while having different jobs that range from fire to school teacher.
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,408 reviews6 followers
September 30, 2016
Everything in Grant McQuaid's life revolves around football, once he was bitten by the football bug as a kid, it hung on tight, and it was the only thing he wanted to do with his life. And now after a injury, he may lose it, and he can't stand the thought of having to walk away from the only thing he has every cared about. Sure he was prepared to retire someday, but it was to be on his terms, and when he was ready to move on, but his injury is forcing him to consider a choice he's not ready to make. Returning home to heal seemed like the perfect idea, and once he is there and meets his biggest fan, and his beautiful mother, he begins to see the appeal of taking his life in a different direction... and begins to realize he has room in his life for more than just football.

Bethany Mills doesn't do dating. relationships, or love thanks to the effects of being abandoned by the man who promised to love her for the rest of his life. Having her husband walk away from her and her son was the hardest thing she has ever had to face, so the idea of letting another man walk into her life makes her more than nervous, and has her wanting to put the brakes on it before the first step in her direction is even made. She knows her son needs some male guidance in his life, but the idea of inviting another man into their lives and risk him walking away when things get too tough to cope with, is more than she is willing to risk... that is until she meets Grant McQuaid!

From the moment I started this heartfelt story I was completely captivated by Ms. Kline's endearing characters and their beautifully executed story, each word stirred my emotions and had me feeling the intent behind every one of them. From the instant these two stumbled into each other's lives it was evident they belonged together, and needed each other more than either one cared to admit, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching them wage the war on their good sense and desires. Being a parent myself I understood Bethany's reservations about letting someone into her life and the effect it would have on her child, and I think Ms. Kline handled the tough subject matter wonderfully, and gave it a very realistic and tangible feel. I also enjoyed the way she touched on each family member in the McQuaid family, and gave us a taste of what is to come for them in further installments in this series, and I have to say I cannot wait to dive in!!

I highly recommend you give this one a try, Grant and Bethany's path to finding their happily ever after is quite enchanting and is certain to leave you with a happy heart!!

ARC given by the Avon Publishing, via Tasty Book Tours & Edelweiss, in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for JoAnne.
3,156 reviews32 followers
October 7, 2016
This was a nice beginning to the new Hidden Falls series and it left me wanting more. Getting to know the McQuaid family especially Grant, the hunky football player who's recovering from an injury, was heartwarming. The interactions between the siblings and their parents was heartfelt and gave me warm and fuzzy feelings. Grant has five brothers - Andrew, Benjamin, Linc and twins Jackson and Jefferson - notice the theme here? and a sister, Maddie. Does that mean each of them will have their own story? One can only hope!

Bethany and her six year old son are transplants to Hidden Falls and she is a kindergarten teacher at her son's school. Her son James was born deaf and has cochlear implants to help him hear. Her ex-husband ran out on them after finding out about James deafness and it devastated her. She's kept to herself since moving to town but the attraction between her and Grant when they meet unexpectedly in the park has her on edge. He's a celebrity, used to the limelight, and she's a homebody who always puts James first. James is in awe of his hero when he meets him especially since his grandfather is a big fan too.

Watching James get closer to Grant and his family while Bethany tries to keep her distance and her heart intact was heart wrenching. When they were together things were so good but they only knew each other a short time and Bethany was very wary of getting more involved. As their relationship progresses so do her fears. But Grant is all in and great with James as is his family except when his career gets in the way and Bethany's doubts multiply. It doesn't help that he's close mouthed about his return to his team or what might be next for him.

The characters have a depth to them but also such caring. The descriptions of the McQuaid ranch, the land, the animals and the food made me feel that I was there. My emotions were involved throughout and this was a quick paced read. There is hurt, fear, anger, tears, angst, laughter, happiness, romance, loving and love. There is nice closure with enough loose ends that left me wanting more. An epilogue would have been nice since I felt the book ended abruptly. I didn't realize I was at the end of the story on my Nook until I turned the last page telling me not to miss the next book in the series coming in January!

T.J. Kline is a new to me author and I can't wait to read more of her books. I've added a few to my always growing TBR pile!

I received a free copy of this book from Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Codi Gary.
Author 32 books980 followers
September 14, 2016
A heartfelt, wonderful romance that will have you desperate for the next installment! A must read for any contemporary romance lover!
Profile Image for The Book Junkie Reads . . ..
5,029 reviews154 followers
October 6, 2016
Life has a way of handing you outcomes you were not wanting or expecting. From Grant it was an injury and for Bethany it was her husband walking out and not looking back at her or their son. Life also has its own way of putting chance/destiny in front of you when you are not looking to find it. Here lays the chance meeting of Grant, Bethany, and of course James.

It was sweet and endearing the interaction between Grant and James. It was almost like a tether was drawing them near. But for Bethany trust was not something she was willing to give out easily. Abandonment carries its own set of scars and walls become a little harder to take down. Then with Grant and the fact he was a professional athlete did not help the two cultivate a strong relationship, but Grant was not willing to let it end there.

Kline had given me another read that was sweet and endearing. James was a scene stealer without even trying. His disadvantage just made it that much sweeter for me to love him and he enthusiasm for the small things.
Profile Image for Bette Hansen.
5,073 reviews40 followers
September 26, 2016
A fantastic read and the beginning of a wonderful new series. If this book is any indication of what we can expect in upcoming books, I'm going to need to stock up on tissues. This one is packed with emotion. Grant is dealing with the end of his NFL career, Bethany is dealing with her issues of abandonment and trust, and James (cutest kid ever!) just wants to be accepted. When an impromptu meeting in the park leads first to a friendship and then to love, it's difficult for Bethany to trust that what she and Grant have could be lasting. Will he be there for her and James or will he let her down like so many others have?

This was an exceptional sweet and emotional read. I highly recommend it to everyone.
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
8,982 reviews173 followers
September 29, 2016
Routine. We all have one. A plan that helps us stay on track and gets up from point A to point B. But what happens when that becomes redundant? A person can get stuck and when something happens to break the sequence, it easy to become thrown off course. Grant is faced with a similar situation in Making the Play. An injury has left him in limbo and faced with a future beyond the field. Will a single mother with a chip on her shoulder and her adorably little boy show him the true meaning of the word "hero"? T.J. Kline gets to the bottom of what's truly important and gives the reader something to think about while doing so.
1,672 reviews43 followers
May 30, 2017
This is the first book in what is bound to be a multiple book series if the author gives each of the seven McQuaid brothers and sister their own books. I think I'm going to like the McQuaid family. There was much to like in this story of Grant McQuaid the oldest of the McQuaid siblings, an aging NFL runningback and Bethany Mills a young single mom/kindergarten teacher raising James, her deaf son. Bethany is sweet as can be and her son James is adorable. Although I really never understood why in an attempt to stand on her own and with the encouragement of her parents she moved not only out of her parents home, but all the way across the country from Memphis to Northern California? That seemed a rather drastic move. As an NFL fan I really didn't get how Grant at 32 was so unprepared emotionally or financially for retirement? It's rare for most NFL players and especially runningbacks to have careers that last that long. I do understand that he invested much of his NFL earnings into helping his family but if he was as big a star as Ms. Kline described him to be he had made more than enough money over his career to do that and still have plenty left over, again if he was smart with his money as Ms. Kline said he was. As much as I enjoyed this book it did feel like some of the drama that kept Grant and Bethany from getting to their HEA was just manufactured to prolong the story rather than as a natural part of their situations. I mean really Grant couldn't find a couple of minutes to pick up the phone and call Bethany? Bethany couldn't have had a little more faith in the man she'd fallen in love with her experiences with her ex aside? But over all a very enjoyable read leaving me excited to read the rest of the series.
942 reviews
June 6, 2017
Making the Play introduces Kline’s Hidden Falls series. Bethany and Grant are likeable characters, and both her determination to protect her son and his struggles with an identity inextricably tied to his sport were believable. But it is James, all-boy and all heart-tugging sweetness, who makes this novel more than another entertaining sports romance. Grant’s family supplies interesting context and, with five brothers and a sister, offers the promise of more McQuaid stories. Readers who enjoy football romances should find this book appealing, as should fans of stories in which children have a pivotal role. This was my first book by Kline, but it will not be my last. I have noted that Dare to Fall, the second Hidden Falls book, will be released January 17, 2016.

See full review at The Romance Dish:
http://www.theromancedish.com/2016/10...
Profile Image for Mal ✨ | Tales Of A Bookbug.
699 reviews47 followers
April 1, 2020
I really liked this book and I think it was a great single parent romance, but I didn't love it as much as the author's other books!

We've got Grant - the injured footballer who needs rehabilitation and Bethany, a single mother whose son is Grant's biggest fan!

Grant was a little grouchy and irritating at first, but he quickly grew on me. Bethany was quite sweet and I could understand why she was hesitant to trust. James was the highlight and I loved the kid! His interactions with Grant made my day! The secondary characters were also quite good, but overall I was left feeling a little unsatisfied because I think it could have been done better! There's nothing that set this book apart from the other sports romance ones and I found myself easily putting it down and I had to remind myself to pick it back up, I'm hoping the rest of the series will be better!
Profile Image for Mal.
588 reviews
January 6, 2025
I really liked this book and I think it was a great single parent romance, but I didn't love it as much as the author's other books!

We've got Grant - the injured footballer who needs rehabilitation and Bethany, a single mother whose son is Grant's biggest fan!

Grant was a little grouchy and irritating at first, but he quickly grew on me. Bethany was quite sweet and I could understand why she was hesitant to trust. James was the highlight and I loved the kid! His interactions with Grant made my day! The secondary characters were also quite good, but overall I was left feeling a little unsatisfied because I think it could have been done better! There's nothing that set this book apart from the other sports romance ones and I found myself easily putting it down and I had to remind myself to pick it back up, I'm hoping the rest of the series will be better!
Profile Image for Floryie.
295 reviews30 followers
October 14, 2016
I have received free book from the author.

Another new author to add to my TBR and favourite lists. I have always loved sports based romances and I am always for a lookout for authors in that genre. And this author gives a very good start to a new series. She is new to me so this is my debut read of her books. I can say without hesitation that I loved the characters and the story.

The protagonists, Bethany and Grant tug on the heartstrings without any effort. Bethany is a single mother with a special needs kid, James. And Grant is a popular football player. Bethany is disillusioned because of her ex-husband and she is afraid to live again. She shields herself and James from people and situations, good and bad. I could relate to her struggle because it is a default reaction of a person who has been hurt too much and couple it with a mother's protective instincts, it makes sense completely.

Grant isn't a typical jock. He feels too much with respect to his personal and professional lives. I loved the way he interacts with James. And as for James, he stole my heart in the beginning with his strength and courage. All the other characters filled up the story with ease. I loved reading about Grant's family dynamics. I hope they each get a separate book in this series.

The story was at a good pace and it was a very fast read. This is a wholesome romantic entertainer which made me run the gamut of emotions. The author sure does know how to engage a reader and I look forward to reading her other books.

My rating : 5/5
Profile Image for Marran.
1,760 reviews25 followers
December 12, 2017
Nja... Skadad footballplayer möter ensamstående mamma med hörselskadat barn... Pang bom.. Super seriöst efter en vecka men.... Hans skada gör att han inte kan återgå till sporten och vad är han för slags man då när han inte kan försörja sin familj. Blabla bla.. Yadayadayada . Äldst av sex barn så han försörjer såklart HELA sin familj och håller familjens ranch flytande... Han åker på möte blir borta en vecka men har inte tid att höra av sig.. Eh. Va? På en vecka har man inte tid att i alla fall skicka ett snabbt sms. 1-2 g om dagen..Jamen eller huuur.... Det är ju vad folk gör på toa nu för tiden om inte annat...
Profile Image for Holly Wolf.
407 reviews
May 1, 2025
This was page after page of the exact same sentences and I couldn't stand any of the characters by the end. I'm not a fan of romance novels, and this one did nothing to convince me otherwise. Note to self, be more careful when picking books by author's last name. This was written by TJ Kline, not TJ Klune 🙄
Profile Image for ReadingInThe6ix.
758 reviews9 followers
October 25, 2017
TJ and Bethany were a great couple, but her son was my favourite. I thought it was a great story with only a few little flaws, but worth the read.
281 reviews11 followers
October 10, 2016
Sometimes life throws you curves that you do not expect and it is how you handle those curves that show they type of person that you are. Grant is in his hometown rehabbing from an injury that may change his future in the NFL. But Grant is so much more than a football player - he has a huge heart. While he is playing football with his brother in the park, he almost runs into a little boy, James. A little boy who idolizes his football hero. A little boy who also is deaf. Because of his disability, his mom Bethany tries to shield him for any ugliness that they world hold. And Bethany thinks that Grant may be part of that ugliness. How can he convince her to give their relationship a chance?

I fell in love with Grant from the opening scene. I love that he could communicate with James in ASL (sign language) and that he never treated James as if he had a disability. It is not often that I have seen hearing impairment address in romance stories and I love depth of the challenges of the disability explored. I wish that Bethany had been a little warmer character, as she was a bit stiff to me in the story. I also felt as if the story dragged a bit in the middle, but otherwise truly enjoyed the story. If you are looking for a sweet romance that you can easily get lost in, Making the Play is for you!

Profile Image for Romantic Reads and Such.
1,165 reviews19 followers
October 6, 2016
Contemporary romance readers won’t be surprised at how this story flows, but they will appreciate the special things that make it a fun read.

Bethany is a wonderful mom (and her son is one of the highlights of the book), but she’s been hiding her heart away. Meeting super-sexy Grant, who shows real interest in her son as a person, shakes things up. She struggles a little with opening up and I have to say that once she does she shows more patience than me to put up with Grant’s shenanigans.

While he may be great with James, Grant does seem a little lacking in the relationship department. Which is to be expected since this is really his first true romance. He’s spent so much of his life focused on football that he never really got involved with a woman. His hot and cold attitude, stubbornness, minor fibs, and lack of communication definitely cause him a ton of troubles … but of course there’s gonna be problems. It’s a romance :)

While there there are familiar elements, Kline does a great job of giving us characters that pop and keep you drawn in to the end. Just because something has been used before doesn’t mean they can’t be enjoyable if the book is done well. And this one definitely is.

(Honest review given voluntarily after receiving an ARC of this book)
Profile Image for Bec.
1,659 reviews42 followers
October 12, 2016

4.5 Stars

Bethany Mills loves her son, but there's only so much she can do for him. She knows he needs more interaction with men in his life to teach him the things that she can't, but there's no way she could choose just any man to fill the void left by her ex-husband. When her son is almost bowled over by his hero when he does something a little reckless while playing in the park, Bethany knows it isn't smart to fall for the gorgeous footballer, but she'll do anything for her son. Even if it means getting her heart broken all over again.

After an injury sidelines him from the game he loves, Grant McQuaid has been doing everything he can to get back into tip-top shape and prove to everyone that he still has what it takes to play football. However, meeting Beth and her son puts a kink in his plans, and soon he begins to see that there's more to life than football. Can he convince Beth to give him a chance, or will his professional life interfere too much and chase Beth away for good?

I love Ms. Kline's books, and this first story in her Hidden Falls series was an incredible read. Right from the beginning, Ms. Kline drew me into this story with the close relationship the heroine has with her son and her determination to teach him right from wrong. There's nothing she wouldn't do for him, which is palpable when they meet the hero, even though she knows it's in her best interest not to be enticed by Grant's charming ways. Especially since he surprises Bethany with the way he interacts with her son so well.

As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories. Bethany's ex-husband is a real piece of work and it was understandable why she was so hesitant to get involved with Grant. What if she gave him a chance and he ended up being disappointed like her husband was? What would happen to her son if he began to get too attached to Grant and things didn't work out between them? However, there were also some really good light-hearted moments between the hero and heroine as well as the hero and Bethany's son. Grant is a wonderful role model for her son, and I enjoyed the interactions they had with each other. Their interactions prove to the heroine that she can learn to trust someone again.

I really liked both the main characters, as well as the secondary ones. Grant's family are warm and the way they accept Bethany and her son was delightful. However, in saying that, I could understand why Grant's dad was worried for her. His advice gives both the main characters a lot to think about, yet at the same time, it's advice that could bring them closer together, if Bethany can accept whatever Grant's future holds.

Bethany is a great mother, and I could understand why she would do anything to protect her son. She's also strong and brave for taking a chance on Grant, even knowing that things might not work out between them. Then again, Grant is different than her ex with the way he interacts with her son. He treats her son as if the boy was his own. While Grant, he's struggling with his injury and I could understand his frustrations. Would he be able to combat his injury to get back on the field to play? If he did, would he be endangering his life if he got hurt again? Grant faces a few tough obstacles, and I enjoyed reading how he faced each one. Bethany and her son are good for him, as they help him realize that there's more to life than getting back on the field, especially if there's a chance he may not be able to play again.

Overall, Ms. Kline has penned a strong romance between Grant and Bethany. There's so much chemistry, and even though Bethany tries to fight it, it's palpable that she wouldn't be able to stay away from Grant for long because the hero is a good man and treats her son like he's special to him. The way this story ended had me cheering for this couple's happy ever after, because Bethany deserved the love of a man willing to push past her fears and show her that she can trust a man again. I would recommend Making the Play by TJ Kline, if you enjoy sports romances or a hero willing to do whatever it takes to prove to the heroine that love is worth fighting for.

Profile Image for Helyce.
578 reviews6 followers
November 2, 2016
Kline is a new to me author and I’m so glad I tried this book. The blurb had my interest because our heroine has a child and I think it’s challenging for an author to write a believable romance when there are children involved.


I liked Bethany. She has a strength about her that can only be earned when you’ve had to deal with difficult things. Her husband left her when James was an infant, newly diagnosed as hearing impaired. She was forced to move back in with her parents; but their support allowed her to finish college. Once she could provide for herself and her son, she moved away from everything safe and comfortable to strike on her own. She moves to Hidden Falls and is working as a teacher. Her focus is her son James, and she’s okay with that, until she meets Grant McQuaid.


I really liked Grant’s character too. A football player through and through, Grant is just taking life one day at a time. The injury to his neck is healing and he’s determined to get back to where he was before his injury and back to his team. His life is football. He doesn’t want to do anything else. He’s worried that it all might be over, though, and he doesn’t know what he’ll do without football.


I love how Grant meets James and his mom. They nearly collide in the park while Grant is working out with his brother. James recognizes him immediately and of course is starstruck from the get go. Grant is really good with James, kneeling down and getting to his level to talk to him. He even knows a little sign language from his volunteer work. Grant certainly notices Bethany, but initially, his focus is on James. I think this was an important point and I liked how the author included James in every scene with Grant and Bethany.


Bethany is very leery when it comes to Grant wanting to spend time with James. I get that. She wants to protect her son. But it’s so obvious to the reader that she has it bad for Grant. Basically ignored for 6 years, her inner sex kitten makes herself known in a big way after meeting Grant. But Bethany continues to push her down. Eventually she gives in, but still struggles with her decisions.


There is an insta-love quality to Grant and Bethany’s romance, but I didn’t mind. Grant’s situation with his team and his injury made everything about time, so things would tend to move at a fast pace. The conflicts introduced were more annoying than anything, but there has to be conflict, right? While a little bit predictable, I did like that this part of the story was not drawn out. Grant deals with a difficult decision, but in the end realizes it’s what he wanted all along.


Secondary characters in the form of Grant’s many brothers and sister round out an interesting bunch. I look forward to getting to know them. This was the type of story that hits all my happy buttons--small town, big family, community spirit. I can’t wait to see who is up next.
Profile Image for Marla Dudak.
1,749 reviews12 followers
September 30, 2016
So not good. Needed a much better editor. The woe is me over and over got old fast.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Horbaczek.
765 reviews6 followers
October 8, 2016
This book was given to me for an honest review

4 stars

Football players. What is there not to love about them. There is just something. The way the move, the swagger of their confidence, or it could be the love of the game. Whatever it is, I tend to fall in love them as a read the story. This story just justifies everything I love about the books. This story not only gives you your players, but it brings in an innocent boy that will melt your heart with everything he says. I'm not sure what I did most, swoon over Grant or melt every time I read about James, either way it was a book I am so glad I read. The power of falling in love always amazes me in books, because when you love two things its hard to let go either one.

Grant is an injured football player, he is home for the summer to heal and get back to spring training. He has the determination to make it, but he is getting close to retiring and isn't sure if he will be able to compete with the younger guys coming in to take his place. What was nice about Grant was that his determination and the way that he carried himself within the book, shows he was brought up right. He tries to do the right thing through out the book. He loves with everything he has, whether it is the game or his relationship, he puts into it what he can. What he never expected was to meet a woman while he was playing catch in the park with his brother. Even more he didn't think he would ever fall in love. So how does he pick a life of a game that he knows or wants, or to find out where Bethany and James will lead him? Decisions are not the easiest when you have to choose between two loves. Mistakes will happen. Everything that he knows will be tested. What will prevail? Bethany is a very strong woman. Her husband left her after he found out that their son will be deaf. Bethany has no dating experience and so when she comes upon a football star when her son almost trips him, she is gun shy. It takes time for her to let her wall down, but the problem is Grant is leaving, so does she want to let him in totally? l think the decisions that were made in this book highlights what love is all about. With two powerful heroes of the book you cant go wrong. They test each other bring what the other doesn't have and loves a little boy that has been so much to begin with.

This is the first time I read this book and loved it. I hope to read more from this author down the road.

A couple of quotes that I loved

"Bethany, you've been letting life pass you by. I have no idea what happened in your past, but you need to find a future. Find someone, be happy again."


"That the gift of having is far more beautiful than the pain of losing."
Profile Image for Books and Spoons.
1,612 reviews32 followers
October 19, 2016
A delightful and engaging story about new beginnings in life, new chances, about football, family, and love in a small town USA.
Young hearing impaired James gave such a rich nuance to the tale with his braveness, and ability to face the adversity in life. He is sweet, adorable, and smart, and stole the show completely. The love, respect, and caring that is developing between James and Grant was mutual, with a little hero worship mixed in. I loved watching those two find their way to each other's hearts and become the unit they were.
And Grant was as easy to love as James. They were so much alike, even though they weren't biological father and son. He was charming, caring, protective, and fun. He showed his tender and vulnerable side with no shame, and when he asked Bethany to be careful with his heart if she wasn't in it for good because he was falling hard - I did as well, fall hard for him.
Bethany, her I struggled with. I felt like she was hindering her son to be himself, by the overflowing protectiveness. And I understood her issues with trust, to the point, but her ability to think that it was all about her, when Grant wanted to spent time with James, that went too far for me, since it happens again and again. It just got awkward when she kept thinking Grant was using James to get to her.
The story wasn't glorifying the professional football players lifestyle but painted a realistic and believable picture of it. I really liked that Grant wasn't made into a millionaire ballplayer, but one with realistic concerns when career might come to the end.
I am not a fan in general of a third person drama, or the main characters dating others after the initial attraction. So that aspect of the storyline got me to wince. It wasn't anything major, but I got the impression that the games Grant and Bethany were playing hurt a third person in the process.
The feelings between Grant and Bethany were developing fast and furious. I didn't even realize how little time had passed until it was mentioned in the story that they met only seven days ago. But the storyline is built in such way that at the end I was happily swooning and completely thrilled for the characters, believing in them and in their love for each other, and cheering them on.
I truly enjoy the author's voice, the way the stories flow, move, and develop. The love and passion are always fierce, and your emotions get involved as the stories progress. This story was a great setup for the new series, that I will look forward to following.
~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Profile Image for Pavitra (For The Love of Fictional Worlds).
1,298 reviews81 followers
December 20, 2016

Alpha heroes and single mothers are a romantic couple that literally end up on my favourite tropes for a book. They are not only hilariously perfect but also have the perfect mixture of angst, indecision and pure soul-worthy love that you just can’t help but love!

Bethany Mills is a single mother and recent addition to a small town to stabilize her feet, after her husband walked out on her when they found out her son suffers from hearing loss. She loves and adores her son, James trying her best give her son a sense of normalcy. When they bump into James’s hero – a football player; their life changes as they know it.

Grant McQuaid is a NFL player home recuperating from an injury; an injury that threatens to put him out of his career – a career that he uses to help out at his family’s ranch. Now that he is being shown the finish line, he doesn’t have any idea as to what is to be done. But he knows that he isn’t in a place for a relationship right now. But a special kid and his mother derail his plans in a way that he never saw it coming.

This was such a cute little romance. I especially adored the relationship between Grant and James – the kind of special relationship a father and son share; that connection was there right from the start, a connection that neither the reader nor Bethany herself can deny.

Grant and Bethany, as well have a connection that warms your heart – they take a whole lot of time to get together, but even then their relationship had an end time so it also had a touch of angst throughout their time together.

I just wish that both Grant and Bethany had communicated a bit better with each other – especially at the end. Because the ending did feel a bit rushed, especially with the whole issue between Grant and Bethany. Still I loved reading this beautiful romance and I am definitely going to be checking out the next books in this series <3



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Profile Image for Becca.
2,003 reviews27 followers
October 13, 2016
This was my first novel by TJ Kline and it definitely won't be my last. I absolutely fell in love with her new series - Hidden Falls. And I can't wait for more from this series and hopefully it's all about these sexy McQuaid Brothers and their cute sister Maddie.

Grant McQuaid finds himself back in his hometown trying to work his way back from a potential career ending injury. He only has a little more time before Pre-Season Training starts and he needs to make sure he can prove to the owners and coaches of the Memphis Mustangs that he still has what it takes to be a star player on the team. What he never expected was to run into Bethany Mills and her son James, who just so happens to be one of his biggest fans, at the park while working out with his brother.

There is something about Bethany and her son. He can't seem to get them out of his head, which isn't helping with his training program. Bethany is trying to start over. With a son with disabilities and a husband who left once they found out their perfect son was deaf, she has spent the last 6 years trying to protect bother James and hers heart. She has a strict no dating rule but the sexy football player who has captured her sons heart right from the start, is slowly is starting to slowly open her heart to the man who just can't stay away from them.

Grant finds out that he may not be able to follow his dream of being back in the NFL but will Bethany and James help to fulfill another dream of his?

I adored James and his love for Grant. Grant is sexy and all alpha, just what the secluded Bethany needs in her life.

This book is a definite win and I can't wait to read more from TJ Kline.
Profile Image for Cathy.
788 reviews
October 3, 2016
MAKING THE PLAY by T.J. Kline. This is a sweet and endearing tale of two people that are at a bit of a crossroad in their lives. Grant, super sexy football player, is facing an uncertain future after an injury. Bethany, a single mom to a special needs kid is more than hesitant to let anyone in. Can they break down each other's barriers and see what love has to offer? I really, really liked Grant - he's sweet and unbelievably kind and patient with both Bethany and James. Bethany came across a bit cold and even a bit witchy, however, I found I understood her wariness and the more I got to know her, the more I liked her and felt for her. The story is full of emotions - both loving and heartwarming to pain filled hurts. Ms. Kline has done an exceptional job of writing a story that keeps the reader invested in the relationship and storyline. This is the start of a new series and I am excited to see what's next. Ms. Kline has a winner if she keeps writing tales that are thought provoking and that make the heart go pitter patter! (received copy for honest review).
Profile Image for Jen.
586 reviews17 followers
October 12, 2016
If you love heroes that have can have a bond with a child just as special as the one with the mom, you must read this book! Grant and James bond instantly over football, but that quickly turns into a special relationship that rivals the love he feels for Bethany. That bond is what helps Grant bring down the barriers Bethany put up after being abandoned by her husband after they found out James was deaf as an infant. It is amazing how resilient kids can be, and Ms. Kline does a wonderful job of conveying that. Grant has personal issues that complicated his relationship, but most of it was in his head and he was frustrating at times. Overall, a great start to a new series, and since Grant has quite a few siblings, I'm hoping to see them in future books.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,259 reviews53 followers
October 14, 2016
This book was highly enjoyable. I just loved the characters. James, Bethany's little boy was too precious. Then you add in a hunky football player you just have the right recipe going for this book. Bethany is leary to start anything with a man and she has good reasons too, but being near Grant makes her start to realize what she's missing out on. Grant is trying make a comeback in football after an injury so staying in his small hometown is temporary. The one problem Bethany and James make it come to light something he never knew he wished for, a family. How can he start anything when he won't be around long? I just loved his friendship he develops with James, just priceless. This is a make feel good story and it's exactly the type of book I've been craving.

5,411 reviews
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January 22, 2017
I bought this based on the premise and a few teasers I saw on the author's Facebook page. Unfortunately, the book ended up being a DNF for me. The pacing was way too slow, and I hated that halfway through the book the heroine was going on a date with someone who wasn't the hero. I also really disliked the heroine. Her character development was too slow and it just made her come across as rude and judgmental rather than protective. I also felt like the book, particularly the heroine's feelings in relation to the hero and dating, etc., were repetitive. As I said, this was a DNF for me and I won't be continuing with the series.
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