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One Pass Away #3

After the Fire

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In his lifetime, Gaige Benson has dreamed of only two things. Playing football and Violet Reed.

WELCOME TO THE NFL

The Seattle Knights have the hottest players in the game. On and off the field.

Second Chances. First Love.

Gaige Benson is the NFL's golden boy. He's done it all. Won every award. Except that elusive Super Bowl ring. This year he is hanging up his cleats and he plans on going out a winner.

Even a golden boy has secrets. Will Gaige's past be the one thing that derails his future?

Violet Reed almost lost it all. Her sight, her dreams of becoming a doctor, and the only man she ever loved. A miracle saved the first two. Sixteen years later she is getting her second chance at love.

Secrets kept them apart. Will the truth separate them forever?

Get your copy of the stand-alone sports romance readers are calling an emotional, page-turning thrill-ride.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 22, 2016

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About the author

Mary J. Williams

56 books749 followers
I love books, I always have and always will. Writing is an extension of that and though it has taken me a while to get here, I now can officially call myself a published author.
I grew up on a ranch in Eastern Washington, so I wanted to set my books on the Columbia River in Washington state. Harper Falls is completely fictitious, but I think anyone from the area will know right where it would be if it did exist.
My hobbies are gardening, reading, baking(fattening desserts are my favorite), exercise(I don't love it, but it is necessary due to the desserts), and animals. I had a dog but when he died I couldn't bring myself to replace him. That is why I wrote Edgar, the dog into "If I Loved You", I consider him my surrogate puppy until I can get a real one.
I love to get feedback on my books so I hope everyone will feel free to leave a question or visit my website(it is a work in progress, but I'm getting there).
My Facebook page is up and running, please stop by for a look and a like.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mary-J.... I'm also on twitter https://twitter.com/maryjwilliams05

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5 stars
86 (46%)
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59 (32%)
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32 (17%)
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6 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,041 reviews811 followers
July 12, 2016
I didn't know what to expect when I dove into After The Fire. This is my first book from Mary J. Williams. I decided I wanted to read this book because the blurb snagged my attention. I'm surprised with how heavy and emotional this story was. It's a second chance love that pulled me right in. The author did such a good job of making me feel the emotions the MC's were feeling and there were a lot. Betrayal, disappointment, anger, sadness and a beautiful love. I think my emotions hit about everyone reading this story. It's a shorter story but really packed it all in. This was the perfect book for a rainy Sunday morning.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,637 reviews417 followers
July 15, 2016
Review by Jen Hagen

In his lifetime, Gaige Benson had dreamt of only two things. Playing football. And loving Violet Reed.

Gaige didn’t have a peachy home life growing up; his dad was an alcoholic and at times took his frustrations out on his wife. Gaige was always frustrated by his dad’s lack of control and upset that his mother chose to stay by his side. Gaige was pretty much ignored by his father as long as Gaige stayed out of trouble. Gaige discovered a love for football at a young age and he was a natural at it, excelling to the point that he is now 38 years old and his team is in the running for a super bowl playoff.

Violet happened to be the victim of a wrong place/wrong time scenario. She remained optimistic throughout it all and has made a successful life for herself. In her time of darkness, she and Gaige developed an anonymous bond – one that left a lasting impression on both of them that hasn’t been erased in the years to follow. She eventually found out who he was, and has kept tabs on him with the help of Google. She has made it her mission to find the appropriate time to place herself in his life’s path, and the time is now.

As they re-discover their mutual attraction still exists, they also are faced with revelations and betrayals.

One more lie. One more secret.

Is the past too damaging to forge a future? Violet and Gaige have a chemistry that can’t be denied, but I just found the story to be too drawn out.

Profile Image for Anne OK.
4,173 reviews552 followers
August 12, 2019
If you believe in fairytale romances, then you'll be pleased as punch with the final installment of the "One Pass Away" series. Insta-love at first sight when the girl is covered in bandages and in a hospital bed and can't see the guy's face. It's all in the voice! A lot of water under the bridge and some big secrets and behind-their-backs trickery has gone down through the years unbeknownst to Gaige, a star NFL quarterback and Dr. Violet Reed, a renowned eye surgeon, who met when they were twenty-two and nineteen, respectively. Now, sixteen years later, they come face-to-face and with one look, one touch, and a whole lot of lies uncovered. It's angst-filled, but I must admit that I loved this couple and cheered them onto a happily-ever-after. Yeah, I really don't have to force myself into a good old love story plotted in sheer fiction!

Fast and quick read with a stars-in-your-eyes ending!
Profile Image for Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder).
2,244 reviews
September 8, 2016
This is my first book by this author. I love sports romance so I grabbed this one. This is a great long lost love/second chance romance story. When you find your soul mate, even time and miles won't douse the flames. Great look at the NFL and dedication of the athletes. Overall a pretty good read.

*ARC recieved via Netgalley
Profile Image for A Klue.
1,500 reviews330 followers
July 25, 2016
After The Fire just didn’t ignite any sparks with this NetGalley reviewer. Right off the bat, I felt the writing was often monotonic/stilted. I immediately started to suspect this author may not be a good fit for me.

Another red flag? Within minutes of Violet meeting Gaige for the first time in the hospital when she was 19, she made comments about her lousy high school lover/boyfriend. It just didn’t seem to fit or seem appropriate to that situation. Then the out of the blue, crass comments in the locker room with Gaige and some of his teammates seemed completely unnecessary, especially coming from a hero I assumed had more class than that. It also didn’t fit the author’s writing style up to that point. Next, Violet’s brief summary of her love life with her now ex-husband.

Finding out Violet and Gaige have been separated 16 long years further widened the gap of what I expected and what I was getting in this romantic read, folks. Throw in Gaige’s unapologetic, supposedly infinite long list of meaningless, intimate encounters with beautiful women, and I found myself not caring what lead to their non-relationship break-up almost two decades earlier. The whiplash from present to past, dual point of view, wasn’t helping matters either.

At 40%, I figured I had given this book long enough to convince me I wasn’t wasting my time. It just didn’t happen, my fellow romance book-loving friends. I threw in the towel and headed for the proverbial locker room. Here’s to hoping others enjoy this one. It just wasn’t for me.

Title: After the Fire, Series: One Pass Away (Book 3), Author: Mary J. Williams, Page: 205, stand-alone but part of a series, hero is an NFL player, heroine is an eye doctor, did not finish after 40%.

Book 1 – After the Rain, Pages: 179, 2/25/16 (Logan)
Book 2 – After All These Years, Pages: 188 (Sean)
Book 3 – After the Fire, Pages: 205 (Gaige)

(This review is based on NetGalley ARC issued in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion. No compensation was made to the reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer and/or author/publisher.)

Profile Image for Harim.
1,206 reviews79 followers
August 23, 2016
*NetGalley ARC*

A quick and sweet story.
I added another star based on that and the insta love theme and how believable it seemed only!

You know how authors attempt at insta love and love and first sight and all that feeling the love vibes for the first time between two characters.. But it always doesn't work out that way.. Eventhough in words, it doesn't always work out..

But this one..
Aw,it was pretty dang sweet .

Let me warn you, you are INSTANTLY gonna fall in love with Violet, yes I mentioned the heroine first because she is such a love character and of course then the hero Gaige.. Gaige Benson... Sounds like an absolute sexy football hotshot.. Well yeah he is!

I love second chance stories and this one was a sweetly written.


Gaige meets Violet first in the hospital when his father injures a girl in an accident seriously enough to make her lose her sight, almost..
And that turns out to be Violet but none of them know about eachother's role in the entire accident..

Years later, when they imagine they have been betrayed by each other but it was fate plus some other douchebag characters..

This one is a good one.
Glad I got it.



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Profile Image for Heather 123.
957 reviews8 followers
August 31, 2016
The good news is that this book was better than the last one I read by this author (which I gave up reading because I couldn't get into it). The bad new? It was only marginally better.

The way Gaige and Violet meet was definitely interesting and not something I had read before. Gaige rushes to the hospital after learning that his father was arrested for a hit and run. He meets Violet without knowing who she is and immediately feels connected to her. However he has to leave before Violet recovers from her injuries and they can discuss who Gaige really is.

This is where the story takes a nose dive for me. Gaige and Violet only spent a couple days together, and as a reader we were only given brief glimpses into this time together. Yet when Gaige and Violet meet 16 years later we are lead to believe that they had been in love? And then they try to pick things up right where they left off as if 16 years hadn't passed. It just wasn't realistic at all.

I doubt I'll give this author much more of a chance, her writing style simply doesn't work for me.

** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
Profile Image for Anakalia.
1,860 reviews17 followers
March 12, 2020
Gaige and Violet... a love affair that lasts through time!
Thrown together by an accident at the beginning of their adulthood, their love did not have enough time to blossom before fate separated them for years ...
It took 16 years for them to reunited and for them to discover that the fire between them was still burning as hot as ever ...

Once again, Ms. Williams has created wonderful characters, both with profound personalities that sparkle with life. And not only caring, but philanthropic characters that add even more depth to this story ... a story about the dream of winning the Super Bowl and getting a second chance in love ...

This book is the worthy conclusion of this miniseries!
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,713 reviews36 followers
July 1, 2016
What an amazing ending to this wonderful series! Gaige & Violet do not disappoint. Their story was a long time in the making, but from the moment we get to view the beginning of their story, the spark is there. I absolutely adored the way this was told. I love that the past is just a glimpse, that the majority of the story is present-day, and that there is no unnecessary drama! Or, I should say, not from inside, anyway. There is plenty of meat to chew on, but the drama is outside of the relationship & the way these two - and Logan, Sean, Claire & Riley - support each other & are ADULT about things... LOVED it!! And my favorite - the banter! There's a lot of dialogue and I love how it's written! : )
Profile Image for Beth.
152 reviews2 followers
June 17, 2016
Gaige and Violet met many years ago. They met by chance and had an instant connection. Circumstances made it difficult for Gaige to believe he had a real shot with Violet but he left her a letter laying his heart on the line before he left got to NFL. Years went by and while Gaige's career excelled he always wondered what if. In a twist of fate, Gaige was reunited with Violet. They discover that through cruel interfere from others, they were kept away from each other. Gaige and Violet have to learn to forgive and forget in order to get the opportunity to love one another again! Great story. Although it's a standalone, it's better if you start with book one.
Profile Image for Christine Bohorquez.
67 reviews1 follower
September 4, 2019
Honestly I was looking forward to Gaige’s story the most. What was his story and how did it play out. While the cause of their meeting wasn’t auspicious it was fate. Extraordinary circumstances prevented them from acting on the initial attraction but like I said previously, Fate! It finally intervened when both were ready. Love the book. Great conclusion to the series. Would love to get a “in the future” book. Thanks.
1 review
June 29, 2020
First off, I never give reviews, but....I could not wait for this book and this the author did not disappoint me.

Gaige is an exceptional man and thru each book and we only see bits and pieces of his life, but we see that he good man and a great friend. Then we are introduced to Violet and we understand.

I hope we get to see more of Gaige in other books coming as Gaige has a future with the team.
83 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2019
Wonderful story!!!

Just loved this book as I did the first two in the series!!! Loved the characters and I so enjoy being able to be reminded of the first two couples, because they are throughout this last book!! Thank you for sharing these beautiful stories!!!!
Profile Image for Char (1RadReader59).
3,341 reviews19 followers
August 7, 2016

Gaige Benson was a kid who was offered a chance out of a horrible situation at home. You see his father was an alcoholic and a physical abuser. His mother was too weak mentally and physically from all the abuse to get away. His father had her brain washed. She wouldn’t leave him even when offered help and a much better way of living.
Gaige was not like her. He was willing to take the help from Terrance Aldridge gave him. Although leery at first it was Brooklyn after all. Gaige knew enough to at least listen. Terrance had he seen Gaige throw a football back to one of his players when the football went out of bounds and crossed his path while walking home. When the ball he threw not only hit its mark but with the force and precision he knew a future player when he saw one. On that day he offered him a chance to play on his pee wee football team. His only problem is that he needed his parent’s signatures. His knew he could get his mother’s but not his father’s. So like all the other times he forged it.
The second hurdle was when he needed the fee. But Terrance knew that would be a problem and had already gotten the board to approve a waiver for him to play. At first Gaige’s pride was going to allow him to miss this great opportunity until Terrance said he should remember that it was just a loan until the day he was able to pay it forward. To help another child when he could. Terrance on that day became a father figure to Gaige he mentored him from then on.
Gaige made it to Yale on a full ride scholarship and then was drafted with the Seattle Knights as first string QB for this NFL team. He was only 22 years old. No sooner did he sign the contract when his good for nothing father blows things up. He drove drunk and was arrested with three times the legal amount of alcohol in his system. He did what he said he would never do he went home to be with his mother in Brooklyn, N.Y. and hopefully talk her into coming home with him and once and for all leaving his father. But no she wanted him to use his name and newly attained fame to get his father off of the charges he so earned. For which Gaige would never ever do for his father. Gaige believed he deserved whatever he got.
Especially, when he got there and found out once again she was one, lying for him to keep him out of jail and two, that his father hit a girl while driving drunk. He truly deserved what he got. Meanwhile, he is at the hospital, which is where he has to visit with his mother since she visits the man every day he is there.
One of the days before he was released to the jail Gaige is walking to the visitor’s room and a young woman is cussing up a storm. Her eyes are bandaged, and she is falling out of the bed as she is trying to reach for something that fallen off her bed. He caught her and righted her. She kept him hostage by not releasing him for a while she said she was bored and want to talk for just a bit. They talked for a few days after that.
He really got to like her and to everyone else it may sound crazy to him it did too but he was falling in love with her. At least he thought that is what love must feel like. He would have never known it but Violet Reed was feeling the exact same way. She was just so happy to have this guy to talk to but that they had so much in common was so calming to her. You see she had to deal with the possibility of maybe losing her eyesight for good and she was afraid. Gaige gave her the courage to face each day. The was Gaige had just found out that Violet was the girl that his father had hit with his car and it was not something he thought he could face having to tell her. Now there was this surgery her only hope and she had no money for it. He called his agent and made it happen she would have this surgery. (She would never know it was him. She couldn’t.) She too felt like she was falling in love. She so wants to see him and had hoped that he would be there for her upcoming surgery but he couldn’t but she kept the faith for them both. But he had a job waiting so…
Fast forward 17 years later Terrance is having a meeting with a young female Dr. from NY who specializes in eye surgeries. They want her to come and join them on the board as well as work the foundation Clinics for Gaige Benson Foundation… To her surprise it is her Gaige the one that helped her when she almost fell then walked out of her life. Or did he? Did others have their hands in the way their lives turned out or did they cheat them? Life was meant to be lived and they had theirs to live but was it their own or not?
I enjoyed how the characters were so positive during situations that could have been horrible for most. It may have been predictable but the reactions of the characters were not. In some areas in others they were so surprising I was like hmm?
I give this 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at:
www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
Profile Image for Downward dog.
1,952 reviews12 followers
July 23, 2016
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com

I was given an advanced copy of this book to write an honest review for Netgalley and Cocktails and Books.

I love discovering new authors and a new series, especially if it involves athletes and I thoroughly enjoyed this intoxicating, well written series by Mary j. Williams. This is the third book in the One Pass Away series and is a standalone, but I would suggest reading the whole series because it is wonderful and there are recurring characters. I started with this book and I liked it so much, I read the first two books in this series, too.

AFTER THE FIRE is an emotional and heartwarming second chance romance about Gaige Benson, an NFL quarterback and Violet Reed, an eye surgeon. When they first meet, there is a strong attraction between them but circumstances beyond their control keep them apart. Gaige and Violet are in their thirties when they finally reconnect after sixteen years.

Gaige is one of the most successful quarterbacks in the NFL and he seems to have it all fame, money and women falling at his feet. He is a nice guy and still humble, even though he has achieved so much. He is the captain of the football team and although everyone respects him, they don't know much about him because he doesn't share his feelings or his innermost thoughts with anyone. Gaige has a wide circle of friends who will do anything for him and they want to see him happy because he is always willing to help everyone. Violet spent years in school and has worked hard at becoming the best eye surgeon in her field. She is an independent, genuinely nice person and she likes Gaige for himself, not because he is famous.

Even though Gaige and Violet have accomplished many of their career goals, they haven't been able to find that special someone they want to spend the rest of their lives with. They have never forgotten each other and once they meet again, they try to work through all their issues so they can be together. Gaige and Violet have lots of chemistry and they treat each other with care and respect.

I fell in love with Gaige in the first two books in this series and I am happy to finally learn his story and see him get his HEA. I also enjoyed all the secondary characters; they are interesting and fun and add another dimension to the story. Mary J. Williams has written an enchanting story that drew me in from the first page and I hope she will write more books In this delightful series.
Profile Image for Carmella.
670 reviews2 followers
July 23, 2016
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Gaige is the Prince of the Seattle Knights. He has been with them for a long time and this will be his last season. He has won many awards but has never made it to the Superbowl. He wants to do what is right for his team and has mentored many. Financially he is very well off and has channeled his money right. He also heads several charities for those in need.

Violet is an eye surgeon and an accomplished one. Earlier in life, when she was a college Freshman, he was hit bu a drunk driver and seriously hurt. Besides some broken bones, she was blinded and it wasn't known if she would ever see again. Luckily, through surgery her sight is returned. The head of Gaige's charitable organization wants to see her and ask if she will be on their Board of Director's. This is where she will meet Gaige......again.

Can they get past what happened many years ago? Will the feelings they always held in their hearts for one another be true and live on?

I loved this story! I had read the book prior to this and liked Gaige then, although he was a very minor character but a great mentor to that character. So when I saw Gaige was in this I couldn't wait to read it.

Giage is such a good man, one that came from an abusive drunken father and a mother in denial. His father truly did not like him. Violet came from loving parents that only wanted the best for her. Her mother was always looking for more when it came to her daughter, not just any man would do, so she was definitely a bit manipulative. Her father was a bit in denial of some of her mother's actions. Sixteen years later, Gaige and Violet would learn about the manipulations of the people in their lives, out of love of course.

This story had a couple of nice twists to it. When I thought all the secrets were out, another came up. This couple had to learn about each other all over with many factors, the past and the manipulations and time and their own experiences. Good communication, honesty and friends/family that care about them are always helpful!

I definitely recommend this book!

Profile Image for Angela.
3,507 reviews33 followers
July 22, 2016
4 1/2 stars!

After The Fire is a second chance romance that's filled with love, and is emotionally captivating. This is a beautiful heartbreaking story, with awesome characters, hilarious banter, crazy antics, intense action, suspense, betrayal, deceit, and intriguing twists that will keep you wanting more. I was captured right from the beginning, and this story will stay with me for a long time to come. It was a fantastic book that is a must read!

Gage Benson captured my heart from the beginning of this series. He's a loving friend, loyal, compassionate, a protector, selfless, and giving, all which makes him gorgeous inside and out. Violet is funny, a little quirky, very intelligent, driven, fiercely loyal, and independent, which makes her beauty shine through. They are also perfect for one another. What will happen when they meet again after 16 years apart? Will the connection they once had be gone? Or will the chemistry between them burn brighter than ever? Will they get the chance to find out before whoever is determined to keep them apart succeeds? Will they finally get the HEA they were both cheated out of years ago?

I have really enjoyed this entire series, learning about the couples, the players and their significant others, the wonderful friendships, and the pseudo family that they have created. Full of adventures, angst, heartbreak, and overflowing with love, this is one series that you won't want to miss! The only issue I had with this book was the editing errors, of which there were many. Not enough to take away from the story overall, but in one case it was. Otherwise, this was a beautifully crafted story and series that I strongly recommend to everyone!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Jenny Dauksa Schaber.
668 reviews
August 6, 2016
I fell in love with the Seattle Knights in After the Rain (book 1) - I also fell in love with Gaige at that time and was so looking forward to reading his story. Unfortunately, this one fell a little short for me. Maybe it was my anticipation for the "feels" I experienced in previous books by Mary. Don't get me wrong, Gaige had terrible parents - well Dad mostly (alcoholic, uncaring and abusive) but Mom (victim personified) is still standing by her man. Gaige got out and made something of himself both in his career as a QB and as a man who gives back to the public. We don't really see the trials and tribulations of either Gaige or Violet. We are told what they went through in their younger years, but I missed a deep seeded emotional connection. I got friendship and compatibility loud and clear. I also got anxiousness and excitement when they reconnect 16 years later. They are a good couple with nearly no drama between the two of them or an obstacle to overcome once they reconnect. They need to discuss the reason for the loss of contact, but that was smooth sailing. They are mature, have established careers and have experience as adults so I wasn't expecting college type drama. I did expect "something more" either in interactions with the parents on both sides as well as with Gaige's agent. I wanted to witness them overcoming the obstacles rather than just being told about them. I hope that makes sense. As I said, it was a good and solid read but I didn't feel a part of it - merely a spectator.
I received a NetGalley copy for review.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
565 reviews8 followers
June 23, 2016

I received a gifted copy in exchange for a honest review.

TOUCHDOWN!!!! Woo-hoo! Mary J. Williams does it again! This was one of the best trilogies I've read in awhile! Very well written.

It starts off with a chance meeting in the hospital. Gaige is there to support his mom because his dad, who he really dislikes, is in the hospital. Gaige comes across a patient calling out for help. He goes into her room to help her back into bed, only to discover he really enjoys talking to her. He spends a little time every day talking to Violet and falling in love. Little does he know of his dad's tie to Violet. Once he realizes "who" Violet is, he tries to make things right, but her mother is not in the forgiving mood.

Fast forward 16yrs....Violet, now a doctor, comes back into Gaige's life. She's been offered a job with his foundation, but the "hire" needs his final approval. When he realizes who he's about to "meet", he vows to never lose Violet again. He's going to fight for her with everything he has-despite the past and the secrets that are uncovered were kept in order to keep them apart.

Even though football is the common thread in this trilogy, it is not the "main" story in this particular novel. It definitely adds a lot to understanding who Gaige is as a person and how he's overcome such an abusive upbringing, to becoming THE man and leader everyone looks up to.

I loved how the characters from previous novels were integral in this novel. Although this novel is a stand alone, I would highly recommend reading the novels in order! This trilogy is MUST read!!!
Profile Image for Brooke.
279 reviews4 followers
July 11, 2016
**This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

I enjoyed the idea of this book. There was much to like; however, there were a few things missing. First of all, I never really never got an image in my mind of what Violet looked like. At first she was bandaged--so we don't really know. Then, years later, Violet's looks didn't seem to have a real impact on Gaige. I suppose that's great, I mean so many books are all about the lust-at-first-sight and describe in detail how beautiful the characters are. This was done for Gaige, but not Violet. When the two reunited, for example, Violet goes to painstaking lengths to look good for their meeting and yet the reader is not privy to his thoughts or moment of admiration. I missed that. It's an important part of deepening the connections between characters who are falling in love.

I also felt like the book was being summarized to a certain extent. I never really got to know the characters. Their thoughts were present, but superficial. The evil dad, was mentioned and present, and did lousy things, but I wanted him to come out of hiding and stir up some crap. An over-the-phone conversation didn't cut it. Same goes for the other "villain" in the book.

I did love Gaige, he seemed like a the complete package. But the rest of the characters were...just there. I didn't feel like I knew anything about them.

I did enjoy the book, It was well written. But at the end, I just wasn't ready to go pick up books 1 & 2, which I have not read. My 3-star rating reflects this.
Profile Image for Sarah.
969 reviews8 followers
July 23, 2016
I was given a copy of After The Fire from NetGalley for an honest review and this is my review.
As a football fan I really enjoyed this romance book with some football thrown it as well. Violet and Gaige met right after he was drafted in the NFL and she was in a terrible accident that was caused by his father, leaving her blind. They would feel drawn together in the short time they spend together before Gaige has to leave to start his a career and Violet is scheduled for a surgery to try to restore her sight. Gaige is forced to leave before the surgery is performed not knowing that it will be sixteen long years before he sees Violet again because people they care about decide to keep secrets from them and play with their lives.
This was an excellent second chance romance with great characters. I loved Violet and Gaige. I also liked the characters from the previous books I have not read yet but I am going to look for those as well. The story was told very well and Gaige especially felt like a real person with how he was fighting with his demons concerning his father and if he would turn out like him. It was very refreshing to see the "fear" in an athlete and not just the "I am the best and nothing can get to me" attitude. Violet was also a strong character to bounce back from what happened to her and to be able to help Gaige see he is not his Dad but his own man and he has nothing to fear about becoming like the man he despises.
I am giving After The Fire four out of five stars.
Profile Image for Nikki Lostinsweetwords blog .
69 reviews7 followers
August 14, 2016
Brilliant sports romance! A true love that was ripped away and then rediscovered sixteen years later.
Violet first met Gaige when he saved her from falling out of her hospital bed that she found herself in after being in an accident, but the accident caused temporary blindness so she had no idea who he was. Violet continues to see Gaige while he’s at the hospital and she falls in love with the connection between them but when she wakes up from surgery that restores her sight he’s gone. It’s not until years later when her mother becomes ill that she discovers the truth Gaige wanted her and left her a letter that her mother hid from her. Now Violet is after the one man she truly loved but will he still feel the same or has time changed things forever?
Gaige is just about to make it big in the NFL when his father is the driver in a hit an run, while he’s at the hospital he comes across Violet he can’t deny the instant spark between them and he wants to know everything about her but he’s hiding that his father is the reason she’s in hospital. After leaving a letter for Violet explaining everything he then leaves to get back to training but he never hears from her and she’s the one girl he can never forget. Now ready to play his final season he’s surprised to hear that Violet is the doctor he’s meeting to help with the research he set up and he’s determined that this time he’ll do anything to convince her they could have something amazing together
113 reviews
July 24, 2016
I loved this novel about second chances with an older hero and heroine. The story was both sweet, inspirational, and somewhat suspenseful in following a national football hero and his first love, a young woman injured by his drunk father.

Gaige is the consummate hero. He is thoughtful and clearly in love with Violet and has been for a long time. However, he does have some flaws such as his quick relationship with the Baltimore player's girlfriend, which make him more realistic and not a cartoonish hero. Violet is an incredibly strong heroine, who overcomes medical challenges to fulfill her dreams. Seeing both characters in their youth and again 16 years later makes for a charming story and really helps the readers understand Gaige and Violet and their love.

Ms. Williams does an excellent job with the supporting characters, who are the protagonists in other books of the series. You have just enough knowledge in this story to know them and see how they fit with Gaige and Violet without having to read the other books.

The story was well-paced with a surprise or two, which added interest to the plot.

So many stories are written with football players as the heroes, this is one of the very best that I have read, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an inspiring and heartwarming romance.
Profile Image for Stephanie Herman.
214 reviews21 followers
December 21, 2018
From the bestselling Author of After the Rain, One Pass Away Book One; After All These Years, One Pass Away Book Two; and Dreaming With a Broken Heart, Hollywood Legends Book One comes her newest contemporary romance After the Fire. Those were great romances and this new one will not disappoint. It's a novel that you will not want to put down. The title suggests struggle, defeating demons. Everyone has them, some just run deeper and uglier than others. This story was written from alternate viewpoints of Violet and Gauge, each overcoming their own and coming together stronger for it. The writers style is suitable for the intended audience. The language clear and convincing, the ideas developed. My favorite character was Violet, with her quirky and witty personality. So loving, mature, smart and loyal, she's his perfect match. The missing puzzle piece. My favorite part of the novel was when they reunited. The least favorite being when and why they went their separate ways. I loved the way the Author put together a football novel and I somehow understood every move they made on the field. Normally I couldn't follow a game to save my life! I would recommend this book to romance fans across the globe. This is book three in a series but can easily be read as a standalone novel. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will wait on bated breath for the next book to be released.
Profile Image for Patricia.
1,828 reviews47 followers
July 29, 2016


Welcome back to the NFL and the golden boy Gaige Benson . The hottest quarterback out there but on the night of his draft pick . His father is a horrific accident that causes a girl to go blind. Gaige is there to corral his father and check out the girl that is where love hits and then goes haywire . Gaige and Violet have had 16 years of misunderstanding and what ifs .

I fell in love with Gaige and Violet, they are a sweet couple that will melt your heart. Gaige is a good guy in a sport where you are suppose to be cocky and have swagger . He has endured so much in his life. We see him as cocky but sweet as you read the story he has many layers to him . When he finally has Violet back in his life everything is right but there is still something dark hiding between them . Violet almost lost it once and she came out stronger and more alive . She is the one person that can handle Gaige and will put him in his place more times then none .

This was a fast read for me and it is a nice way to end the series . Gaige and Violet are the cutest couple and will make you want to fall in love with them . This would make a great summer read for the beach or the pool.



Profile Image for Karen Monasterio.
115 reviews6 followers
July 12, 2016
After the Fire was another 5 star read. Mary J. Williams does it again!!

I love books that have to do with sports especially football. This book was a perfect mix of football and hot players that lead real lives.

Gaige and Violet met while she was in the hospital. He just happened to be walking by and saw she needed his help. From that point on, Gaige visited Violet every day. He loved being around her and just talking to her. Violet felt the same about Gaige. She looked forward to his daily visits. When Violet needed surgery and her family couldn't pay for it, Gaige took it upon himself and paid for her hospital bills, surgery, and even college.

Before Gaige left, he wrote Violet a letter in which she never received. Her mother didn't want Gaige near her daughter. She was blaming him for something his father did. When Violet's mom was on her death bed, she revealed a lot of events that she was either behind or a part of.

Violet learns this information and after 16 years away from each other, Violet and Gaige reunite. They have a lot to talk about. In the end, love prevails.
Profile Image for Tina Todd shobe.
556 reviews2 followers
June 22, 2016
Copy gifted to me by the Author in exchange for an honest review*

This book is part of the One Pass Away Series but definetly can be read as a stand alone.

I was drawn into this book from the first word and in fact read the book straight through.

Gaige Benson Plays in the NFL for the Seattle Knights. This year his plan is to retire but his goals is to win the Super Bowl before his retirement. He seems to have it all except for love.

Violet Reed came very close to losing her dreams.

They met under dire circumstances but were drawn to each other from the very first.

Their lives took separate paths due to others but now they have a second chance.

Will they be able to overcome their pasts and open their hearts to fulfill their dreams of having a future together?

I really felt for Gaige and his struggle with his Mom. Trying to help someone who doesn't want to face reality is so tough.

I really like that this book was told by both Gaige and Violet. I think it drew me into the story more.
Profile Image for Samantha.
2,696 reviews21 followers
July 5, 2016
Gaige Benson hasn't had a picture perfect childhood, but football saved his life and put him where he is today...the quarterback for the Seattle Knights. He's never won a Super Bowl in all of his years, but now he has everything to make it right and get that elusive win. Well until Dr. Reed comes back into his life.

Violet had her life turned upside down and then she met Gaige. Just when she thought things were looking bad he made it better until he left her. Now years later, seeing him again hasn't really lessened the hurt, but she'll let it all go to be with him and finally have their chance that was taken away from them.

I really liked this one. Two people who fell in love quickly when they were younger never really had a chance to see where things would go. Both had some rough patches in life, and now have to deal with people they have always trusted and expected to be there for them revealing horrifying secrets.

Will they be able to overcome everything and finally be together?
Profile Image for Rachel.
61 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is not your typical jock pines after woman novel, and I liked that about this. Gaige is an NFL star quarterback, who comes from a less than stellar background. Having overcome many odds throughout his youth, he has a chance meeting with a mystery girl who is in the hospital working towards recovering from various injuries including temporary blindness. WHen a younger Gaige meets Violet, they have an instant connection that has stuck with the pair for 16 years.

Now on the verge of retirement, Gaige and Violet have a chance at having a second chance, and this is something that is so unique to this book. What started off as a chance encounter with hidden meaning, turned into a chance at these two having their own happily ever after. The author does a great job at character development, and while some aspects of the book were predictable, this turned into a lighthearted book with some twists and turns that keep the reader engaged and invested in Gaige and Violet.
Profile Image for Felicia Eddy.
739 reviews
July 30, 2016
I liked this book but did have a few issues.

Gaige and Violet new each other 16 yes ago for a brief time they did they meant a lot to each other. Unfortunately they had external influence that changed their course and they never knew what they meant to each other.
Flash forward 16 years Gaige is now in his last year as an NFL quarterback in Seattle and Violet is a world class eye surgeon find themselves in a situation where they are working together and now they have a chance to find out if their feelings for each other are real or just a memory from all those years ago.
I first need to say my favorite genre is second chance romance, and this story and some great parts that hit on that. There were a few great twist and turns and I felt they chemistry between the 2 main characters. My concern was with the parts of the story, there were a lot of points that either we didn't see happen are didn't feel complete and I am not sure why. I think the story had potential I wanted more of the story.
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