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Blind Landing
Fear stops dreams in their tracks before they even have a chance. Then again, so do injuries.
Natalia Grekov was born to win a gold medal. As the USA’s top gymnast, she’s calm, confident and ready to make her country proud in just two short months. And her elite athlete lifestyle includes no time for distractions—especially men. When a disastrous fall in practice puts her dreams at risk, it seems the only person who can help her is the one person she wants nothing from.
Spencer Russell is gymnastics’ bad boy. A cocky, laid-back charmer with abs of steel and a witty mouth, he waltzes around training camp like he owns the place—even though he doesn't anymore. After an injury sidelined his career and any chance at glory, he’s now just a coach, helping other gymnasts reach their goals. Serious is not a word in Spencer’s vocabulary. But when Natalia tumbles into his life, he's suddenly sincerely interested in helping the blonde beauty in any way he can.
Can they vault over the obstacles standing in their way? Or will Spencer be the distraction that causes Natalia's chance at gold to crash and burn?
Natalia Grekov was born to win a gold medal. As the USA’s top gymnast, she’s calm, confident and ready to make her country proud in just two short months. And her elite athlete lifestyle includes no time for distractions—especially men. When a disastrous fall in practice puts her dreams at risk, it seems the only person who can help her is the one person she wants nothing from.
Spencer Russell is gymnastics’ bad boy. A cocky, laid-back charmer with abs of steel and a witty mouth, he waltzes around training camp like he owns the place—even though he doesn't anymore. After an injury sidelined his career and any chance at glory, he’s now just a coach, helping other gymnasts reach their goals. Serious is not a word in Spencer’s vocabulary. But when Natalia tumbles into his life, he's suddenly sincerely interested in helping the blonde beauty in any way he can.
Can they vault over the obstacles standing in their way? Or will Spencer be the distraction that causes Natalia's chance at gold to crash and burn?
236 pages, Paperback
First published July 31, 2016
75 people are currently reading
1004 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Aarons
63 books2,989 followersAuthor of romance novels such as Fleeting and Love at First Fight, Carrie Aarons writes books that are just as swoon-worthy as they are sarcastic. Her stories are fueled by vanilla lattes, meloncholy music, and copious amounts of candles.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
August 30, 2016
I'll write a review for this eventually but I tried today and it still bothers me. If I write anything now, it'll just turn into a rant fest, so all I can give you at the moment is this: I don't like it. At all. There's better romance books and better gymnastics books out there. Considering the author kept boasting about her years upon years as a gymnast on social media while writing this book, I expected more of a storyline and less of her rants and disgusts with the sport and how it's portrayed.
August 4, 2016
3.5 "BLIND LANDING" stars!
I'm still struggling with how to write this review. But it's time so here I go.
The premise of the book was good enough for me to be salivating for it. The story flowed nicely and the messages included was a good one. I also had a lot of fun with the "Fearsome Foursome's", especially with Peyton, hope she gets her own book, she was a very enchanting character and I want to know more about her.
All the characters from this book were lovable, well except you Novak Filipe, you deserve to rot in hell. As I was saying, the characters were great and I had no problem with them, as single individuals, not as a couple. See? That was my issue with the book. I didn't feel the connection between the main couple. Like they were ok having a fling or something like that, not a strong relationship. I felt the build of it a little rushed.
The lack of chemistry between them made me lose the interest and instead I focused more on what was happening around them. I got sucked into the gymnastic world. The author's passion for this sport was evident. She made me feel like I was right there, trying new routines or being yell at by Novak. Dreaming about being a gymnast.
The fact that I didn't feel them as a couple made me so freaking sad. They were perfect, but not for each other. Spencer was one of those guys you fall for. Sexy, funny, cocky without being an asshole. Gah! He was just perfect. And Nat, that girl was so determined, so brave! I wanted her as my BFF.
"Not every book is for everyone." This time, I think that it would be better to say that not every couple is for everyone.
If you love Gymnastics, this book is a MUST READ! Carrie Aarons definitely does the gymnastics community justice with her words.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
I'm still struggling with how to write this review. But it's time so here I go.
The premise of the book was good enough for me to be salivating for it. The story flowed nicely and the messages included was a good one. I also had a lot of fun with the "Fearsome Foursome's", especially with Peyton, hope she gets her own book, she was a very enchanting character and I want to know more about her.
All the characters from this book were lovable, well except you Novak Filipe, you deserve to rot in hell. As I was saying, the characters were great and I had no problem with them, as single individuals, not as a couple. See? That was my issue with the book. I didn't feel the connection between the main couple. Like they were ok having a fling or something like that, not a strong relationship. I felt the build of it a little rushed.
The lack of chemistry between them made me lose the interest and instead I focused more on what was happening around them. I got sucked into the gymnastic world. The author's passion for this sport was evident. She made me feel like I was right there, trying new routines or being yell at by Novak. Dreaming about being a gymnast.
The fact that I didn't feel them as a couple made me so freaking sad. They were perfect, but not for each other. Spencer was one of those guys you fall for. Sexy, funny, cocky without being an asshole. Gah! He was just perfect. And Nat, that girl was so determined, so brave! I wanted her as my BFF.
"Not every book is for everyone." This time, I think that it would be better to say that not every couple is for everyone.
If you love Gymnastics, this book is a MUST READ! Carrie Aarons definitely does the gymnastics community justice with her words.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
August 4, 2016
With the Rio Olympics about to go underway, I was looking for my perfect fix to go along with that inspirational mode.
Blind Landing
is my second ever Carrie Aarons read and I got to tell ya, I'm in no way going to stop any time soon.
A lot of this novel centers around taking risks....jumping into the unknown...even when you don't know where the results may lead you.
Natalia and Spence. I liked what the other brought out in the both of their characters. I also enjoyed how they could emphasize and relate, along with dream, challenge, and render the other completely vulnerable to what's right in front of them.
Those of you who are athletes know what it's like to juggle the realities of fear, anxiouness, self-doubt and love. While I do admit, Natalia's circumtances are a lot higher and riskier because she is in league to become an olympic athlete, I'm sure a lot of you can understand the conflictions running around through her mind, nevermind, the fact that she's fallen in love with a man forbidden to her.
Blind Landing was a delightful, insightful, and sinful read. I definitley recommend to those looking to get a pre-Olympics book fix.
A lot of this novel centers around taking risks....jumping into the unknown...even when you don't know where the results may lead you.
Natalia and Spence. I liked what the other brought out in the both of their characters. I also enjoyed how they could emphasize and relate, along with dream, challenge, and render the other completely vulnerable to what's right in front of them.
Those of you who are athletes know what it's like to juggle the realities of fear, anxiouness, self-doubt and love. While I do admit, Natalia's circumtances are a lot higher and riskier because she is in league to become an olympic athlete, I'm sure a lot of you can understand the conflictions running around through her mind, nevermind, the fact that she's fallen in love with a man forbidden to her.
Blind Landing was a delightful, insightful, and sinful read. I definitley recommend to those looking to get a pre-Olympics book fix.
August 8, 2016
I’m not going to lie—I’ve never given a whole lot of thought to the Olympics. I mean, it’s a fun thing that comes up every once in a while, and I do enjoy watching the gymnasts twist and contort and fly through the air the way they do.
But Carrie Aarons has given me an entirely new appreciation.
Not only do I have her vivid imagery in my head, but I have a deepened understanding and appreciation for the work it takes, the drive a gymnast must have and how completely all-consuming it is. It’s clear that Ms. Aarons knows from which she speaks, but better than that, she conveys it so powerfully that I felt like I was witnessing it. Like it was real. And my heart reacted—swelling, aching, and causing my eyes to fill with tears—to Natalia’s Olympic journey alone.
It can’t be easy to make a tough-as-nails, single-minded, determined athlete sympathetic and full of heart. It’s no small trick to get that sort of dimension to ring true on paper, but that’s what happens here. I did love Natalia. I sympathized with her. And I warmed quickly to the relationship she built with Spencer. It was a slow build for me—not that they didn’t bring the heat, or that there weren’t moments that took my breath away. It’s just…this is not a story about a girl who waited her whole life to find her one true love. This is a story about a girl who worked her whole life to achieve one huge goal—and stumbled upon love along the way.
It’s a big love.
And it was incredibly heartwarming and rewarding and…satisfying.
There are incredibly sweet moments, some incredibly heart-wrenching moments, and some moments that made me feel like standing up and cheering (it was like the real Olympics, you guys!). It’s heavy on the athleticism—and maybe a little lighter on the romance which…makes sense given its premise—but I completely enjoyed it and cannot wait for more! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
~~~
I am a huge gymnastics fan! It is really the only part of the Olympics I watch, so when I saw this book was about two gymnasts, I couldn’t pass it up.
“I don’t do boyfriends. Especially not boyfriends who are gymnasts.”
Natalia is an elite gymnast. She has been working on getting to the Olympics for her entire life, and nothing and no one is going to distract her from achieving her dream.
“Gymnastics is addicting, and even if I can’t do the drug anymore, I’m happy to sit by and watch other people get high.”
After a career ending injury, Spencer still lives and breathes gymnastics. He is just a coach now. And as a coach, watching another gymnast struggle with fear, he is determined to help.
“I stand at the end of the beam and my body won’t let me move. I’m a prisoner in my own skin. I don’t know what to do.”
Together, Spencer works with Natalia to overcome her fear and find the love in gymnastics again. But what starts as a flirty friendship quickly morphs to more when the chemistry between them ignites.
“…her entire body looks like a strong, sexy athlete’s wet dream. Or man’s wet dream. Or mine. Fucking fine, she’s my wet dream.”
The two together are explosive. I adored Spencer and his cocky-but-sweet side. I loved how much time the author spent explaining the sport of gymnastics and you could tell that she really did her research. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and can’t wait for the next in the series, hopefully about Peyton and Jared. Though, I certainly hope Rouke gets a book too! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
But Carrie Aarons has given me an entirely new appreciation.
Not only do I have her vivid imagery in my head, but I have a deepened understanding and appreciation for the work it takes, the drive a gymnast must have and how completely all-consuming it is. It’s clear that Ms. Aarons knows from which she speaks, but better than that, she conveys it so powerfully that I felt like I was witnessing it. Like it was real. And my heart reacted—swelling, aching, and causing my eyes to fill with tears—to Natalia’s Olympic journey alone.
It can’t be easy to make a tough-as-nails, single-minded, determined athlete sympathetic and full of heart. It’s no small trick to get that sort of dimension to ring true on paper, but that’s what happens here. I did love Natalia. I sympathized with her. And I warmed quickly to the relationship she built with Spencer. It was a slow build for me—not that they didn’t bring the heat, or that there weren’t moments that took my breath away. It’s just…this is not a story about a girl who waited her whole life to find her one true love. This is a story about a girl who worked her whole life to achieve one huge goal—and stumbled upon love along the way.
It’s a big love.
And it was incredibly heartwarming and rewarding and…satisfying.
There are incredibly sweet moments, some incredibly heart-wrenching moments, and some moments that made me feel like standing up and cheering (it was like the real Olympics, you guys!). It’s heavy on the athleticism—and maybe a little lighter on the romance which…makes sense given its premise—but I completely enjoyed it and cannot wait for more! ~ Shelly, 4 stars
~~~
I am a huge gymnastics fan! It is really the only part of the Olympics I watch, so when I saw this book was about two gymnasts, I couldn’t pass it up.
“I don’t do boyfriends. Especially not boyfriends who are gymnasts.”
Natalia is an elite gymnast. She has been working on getting to the Olympics for her entire life, and nothing and no one is going to distract her from achieving her dream.
“Gymnastics is addicting, and even if I can’t do the drug anymore, I’m happy to sit by and watch other people get high.”
After a career ending injury, Spencer still lives and breathes gymnastics. He is just a coach now. And as a coach, watching another gymnast struggle with fear, he is determined to help.
“I stand at the end of the beam and my body won’t let me move. I’m a prisoner in my own skin. I don’t know what to do.”
Together, Spencer works with Natalia to overcome her fear and find the love in gymnastics again. But what starts as a flirty friendship quickly morphs to more when the chemistry between them ignites.
“…her entire body looks like a strong, sexy athlete’s wet dream. Or man’s wet dream. Or mine. Fucking fine, she’s my wet dream.”
The two together are explosive. I adored Spencer and his cocky-but-sweet side. I loved how much time the author spent explaining the sport of gymnastics and you could tell that she really did her research. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and can’t wait for the next in the series, hopefully about Peyton and Jared. Though, I certainly hope Rouke gets a book too! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
July 28, 2016
4.0 "BLIND LANDING" Stars
“I don’t run away from a challenge because I am afraid. Instead, I run towards it because the only way to escape fear is to trample it beneath your foot.” ~Nadia Comaneci
Blind Landing is my first Carrie Aarons book and to be honest it was the cover that caught my attention first.It's gorgeous and it doesn't just exudes beauty but there's just something with it that makes it really appealing as if it's calling unto me even if it's just there sitting.
First few pages and I said "I made the right decision of signing up an ARC". I got hooked from the very first page. It really started so good everything just flows flawlessly making you feel like being swayed. The plot and the storylines are worth rooting for. It is lighthearted with a little angst and the tempo is just on the steady pace giving you enough time to devour every lines without making it dull and boring. What I love more about it also are glimpses of the gymnastic world escpecially on the trainings and the in and outs of the elite gymnasts working hard to be qualified not just to on an any international events but to be chosen as qualifiers for Olympic games.
Yeah, and that's where Blind Landing, the story of Spencer and Natalia started.
Spencer Russellis the bad boy of gymnastics, a ladies’ man, a laid-back go-with-the-flow kind of guy. He gets away with everything and looks damn good doing it. In short the man is TROUBLE.
Natalia Grekovon the other hand, well she's not our shy and meek heroine. In fact she’s the female Spencer Russel. She’s fearless and outspoken, not the type to just go along with anything and everything her coaches say. She likes to color outside the lines a little, but is still one of the most focused, kickass gymnasts to ever come up through the ranks.
Yes they both breathe and live gymnastics and their journey started as "flirty friends" in the training campus until Russel coaches Natalia to conquer her fear and her weakness that could hinder her dreams...to be disqualified from making it into the Olympic Team....
And that's where this story gets very interesting and and enjoyable read. From sneaking out at the wee hours for their private practice even if it means risking not just Spencer's job but also Nat's dream to their sexcapades in the dorm room and at the gym. Add up a bathroom sex and I was a goner!!! As I was reading, I feel like my blood was pumping hysterically in my veins afraid they might get caught but at the same time excited for them both. Their adventures is on the hype... it's so sensual. They got an awesome chemistry. Until... What started as hook up on top of helping a fearless gymnast cure her fears turned out so much more.
And..I'll stop there because you need to read it yourself. I can go on and on but I know I wont stop. So go now, One Click this book and go on a ride with Natalia and Spencer's sweet and sexy story of love and what it will do to you.
Spencer is my blind landing, the thing that I never saw coming.
A must read!
*ARC kindly provided ib exchange for an honest review*
“I don’t run away from a challenge because I am afraid. Instead, I run towards it because the only way to escape fear is to trample it beneath your foot.” ~Nadia Comaneci
Blind Landing is my first Carrie Aarons book and to be honest it was the cover that caught my attention first.It's gorgeous and it doesn't just exudes beauty but there's just something with it that makes it really appealing as if it's calling unto me even if it's just there sitting.
First few pages and I said "I made the right decision of signing up an ARC". I got hooked from the very first page. It really started so good everything just flows flawlessly making you feel like being swayed. The plot and the storylines are worth rooting for. It is lighthearted with a little angst and the tempo is just on the steady pace giving you enough time to devour every lines without making it dull and boring. What I love more about it also are glimpses of the gymnastic world escpecially on the trainings and the in and outs of the elite gymnasts working hard to be qualified not just to on an any international events but to be chosen as qualifiers for Olympic games.
Yeah, and that's where Blind Landing, the story of Spencer and Natalia started.
Spencer Russellis the bad boy of gymnastics, a ladies’ man, a laid-back go-with-the-flow kind of guy. He gets away with everything and looks damn good doing it. In short the man is TROUBLE.
Natalia Grekovon the other hand, well she's not our shy and meek heroine. In fact she’s the female Spencer Russel. She’s fearless and outspoken, not the type to just go along with anything and everything her coaches say. She likes to color outside the lines a little, but is still one of the most focused, kickass gymnasts to ever come up through the ranks.
Yes they both breathe and live gymnastics and their journey started as "flirty friends" in the training campus until Russel coaches Natalia to conquer her fear and her weakness that could hinder her dreams...to be disqualified from making it into the Olympic Team....
And that's where this story gets very interesting and and enjoyable read. From sneaking out at the wee hours for their private practice even if it means risking not just Spencer's job but also Nat's dream to their sexcapades in the dorm room and at the gym. Add up a bathroom sex and I was a goner!!! As I was reading, I feel like my blood was pumping hysterically in my veins afraid they might get caught but at the same time excited for them both. Their adventures is on the hype... it's so sensual. They got an awesome chemistry. Until... What started as hook up on top of helping a fearless gymnast cure her fears turned out so much more.
And..I'll stop there because you need to read it yourself. I can go on and on but I know I wont stop. So go now, One Click this book and go on a ride with Natalia and Spencer's sweet and sexy story of love and what it will do to you.
Spencer is my blind landing, the thing that I never saw coming.
A must read!
*ARC kindly provided ib exchange for an honest review*
August 6, 2016
“Flirty friends kiss right?”
I love a sports romance and I am a fan of Carrie Aarons so I was excited to start Blind Landing. I love the Olympics and this new trend of books revolving around this setting is right up my alley.
‘Natalia Grekov has sent my system spinning, and the only way to relieve the dizziness was to attack it at the source.’
Blind Landing revolves around Nat, an Olympic hopeful, and Spencer, a coach for the Men’s team. Their relationship starts as friendship with both of them knowing that now during the training for the games is not the time to act on their chemistry. But before long the attraction becomes too much to deny and they are soon sneaking around. Their pairing is taboo but not forbidden. I loved Spencer and his fun personality from the start and while I admired Nat’s drive and determination, it did at times make connecting to her as a romantic heroine more difficult. There were great moments when she let her guard down that I truly did like her but also times when her focus on their Olympic path make the romantic aspects of the book more difficult to connect to then I was hoping for.
“Duh, Russell, I want your body. And a big fat gold medal.”
Overall, Blind Landing was a good solid sports romance and Spencer is hard not to love. Blind Landing is worth a read and especially now during the Olympic Games!
~miranda
I love a sports romance and I am a fan of Carrie Aarons so I was excited to start Blind Landing. I love the Olympics and this new trend of books revolving around this setting is right up my alley.
‘Natalia Grekov has sent my system spinning, and the only way to relieve the dizziness was to attack it at the source.’
Blind Landing revolves around Nat, an Olympic hopeful, and Spencer, a coach for the Men’s team. Their relationship starts as friendship with both of them knowing that now during the training for the games is not the time to act on their chemistry. But before long the attraction becomes too much to deny and they are soon sneaking around. Their pairing is taboo but not forbidden. I loved Spencer and his fun personality from the start and while I admired Nat’s drive and determination, it did at times make connecting to her as a romantic heroine more difficult. There were great moments when she let her guard down that I truly did like her but also times when her focus on their Olympic path make the romantic aspects of the book more difficult to connect to then I was hoping for.
“Duh, Russell, I want your body. And a big fat gold medal.”
Overall, Blind Landing was a good solid sports romance and Spencer is hard not to love. Blind Landing is worth a read and especially now during the Olympic Games!
~miranda
August 5, 2016
3.5 Cocktails
This was a good book and I enjoyed what Nat and Spence went through working up to the Olympic trials, but it felt like the Trials themselves and the Olympics just flashed by. And then there was what was happening with Novak. I wanted more with that. He was one of those secondary characters that lurked in the background, but he was set up as a bad guy who had to take a fall. But it didn't feel like we got into the ins and outs of why Novak had it in for Spence and Nat, separately. The little explanation we got really didn't fit in with what happened with him at the end.
Carrie Aarons still gives us a great read. I enjoyed her spin on the Olympics and can't wait to see what comes next for the gymnastic team.
This was a good book and I enjoyed what Nat and Spence went through working up to the Olympic trials, but it felt like the Trials themselves and the Olympics just flashed by. And then there was what was happening with Novak. I wanted more with that. He was one of those secondary characters that lurked in the background, but he was set up as a bad guy who had to take a fall. But it didn't feel like we got into the ins and outs of why Novak had it in for Spence and Nat, separately. The little explanation we got really didn't fit in with what happened with him at the end.
Carrie Aarons still gives us a great read. I enjoyed her spin on the Olympics and can't wait to see what comes next for the gymnastic team.
Read
August 9, 2016Oh boy...
Full review to come
Full review to come
December 2, 2020
Natalia has been working her biscuits off so get to the Olympic games. She finds herself at the elite training camp only to be struck with the worst case of fear when it comes to the balance beam. She knows that she can't make it if she can't overcome this fear. She doesn't know how but she will beat it and she will go to the games. What she wasn't expecting was Spencer, the bad boy of gymnastics who is trying to cope with his career ending injury while being the newest coach for the team. When these two come face to face not only do sparks fly but Spencer realizes that he can help Nat's dreams come true and he won't stop until he can help her.
These two were so much fun. Their banter was everything. I loved how she wasn't afraid of who she is and what she has but yet how she pushed in his face when he wasn't expecting it. Her confidence was everything and yet she had that one vulnerability that Spence was helping her with. I also really respected that Spence had his moments of vulnerability with his shoulder but that was all it was - a moment. You knew that he hated that he wasn't competing anymore but you didn't feel that he was depressed because through that he found a new calling. I loved the push and pull between these two with her training but I also loved that they could leave it on the mats and then connect as lovers after the fact. Nat and Spence are kind of awesome and I love them to pieces.
These two were so much fun. Their banter was everything. I loved how she wasn't afraid of who she is and what she has but yet how she pushed in his face when he wasn't expecting it. Her confidence was everything and yet she had that one vulnerability that Spence was helping her with. I also really respected that Spence had his moments of vulnerability with his shoulder but that was all it was - a moment. You knew that he hated that he wasn't competing anymore but you didn't feel that he was depressed because through that he found a new calling. I loved the push and pull between these two with her training but I also loved that they could leave it on the mats and then connect as lovers after the fact. Nat and Spence are kind of awesome and I love them to pieces.
August 2, 2016
***LIVE EARLY-FULL REVIEW***
5 Make My Heart Tumble CROWNS
Carrie Aarons has made me fall in love with gymnastics. I loved every single aspect of this book: the characters, the plot, the truth about gymnastics. I just adored it all.
I enjoyed every single character, well except the antagonist, obviously, in this story. But let’s start with Spencer. He is one of my top heroes ever! He has the perfect combination of cocky, sexy, and sweet. The reader can see his love for gymnastics; the way he speaks about it makes me want to be a gymnast, and what makes him even more appealing is the way he has dealt with his career. There is no animosity or bitterness, just encouragement and guidance. GAH!!! It just makes me fall in love with him even more! I also have a soft spot for that confident hero who knows he is sexy but is still so sweet that it doesn’t come off as sleazy or arrogant, and this is absolutely Spencer. One aspect of his characterization that I love the most is that he is an action kind of guy. Yes, he says some amazing lines in the story, but his actions speak louder than his words, and they are some great acts. Then we have the heroine Natalia. I want to be her best friend! I admire her dedication, her strength in the field of gymnastics, and her unwillingness to conform. She is also admirable for her love and dedication to her family and the sport she loves, and, while this is not the whole conflict, it does play a part in the conflict. Even though her dedication to the sport causes some problems, I cannot blame her. She has spent her whole life working towards the Olympics and her family has sacrificed for it. I love these two characters apart, but they are amazing together. They are supportive, loving, fun, and hot. I enjoyed every single time they are together. Whether they were talking or having sex, it is all fantastic!
Even the secondary characters in this story are great. The author gives the reader enough information to intrigue us and makes the reader want their stories, and I know I am very excited to see where Carrie Aarons takes them.
The plot is perfection. The exposition and rising action are used expertly to lay the groundwork for their relationship. Carrie Aarons allows the reader to see Nat and Spencer move from “flirty friends” to more. By taking her time to develop them as a couple, I bought into their relationship and became invested. Because I became enthralled with their story, I am that much more devastated when the conflict of the story blows up and it all falls apart. The falling action and resolution of the story are also paced perfectly. There is no quick resolution to their conflict. There is a legitimate fall-out and consequence, and I felt that their reaction to the conflict and climax is realistic for elite athletes in their situation. Finally, the resolution is solid gold. It is happy and sweet, and it put a smile on my face.
On a more serious note, Carrie Aarons also is able to showcase flaws in the gymnastic world, especially on the elite level. What I love most is that the author weaves the truth through the romance so well that it doesn’t overshadow the story or sound preachy. It becomes just another element and not the centerpiece of this fantastic book. When she exposes these ills, I felt sad and found myself shaking my head because I was so disheartened by the treatment of these girls and boys. It is certainly eye-opening, and this look into this world is ultimately what I love about reading. I get to see a wonderful romance but also get to understand relevant topics of the world we live in today.
I have enjoyed both books by Carrie Aarons that I have read, but this book has firmly placed her in my one-click author category. If her name is on it, then I will be buying it. So now, I will sit a patiently wait for any news for the second book in this series, because Gymnasts are going to be my new favorite sports trope!
====================
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ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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5 Make My Heart Tumble CROWNS
Carrie Aarons has made me fall in love with gymnastics. I loved every single aspect of this book: the characters, the plot, the truth about gymnastics. I just adored it all.
I enjoyed every single character, well except the antagonist, obviously, in this story. But let’s start with Spencer. He is one of my top heroes ever! He has the perfect combination of cocky, sexy, and sweet. The reader can see his love for gymnastics; the way he speaks about it makes me want to be a gymnast, and what makes him even more appealing is the way he has dealt with his career. There is no animosity or bitterness, just encouragement and guidance. GAH!!! It just makes me fall in love with him even more! I also have a soft spot for that confident hero who knows he is sexy but is still so sweet that it doesn’t come off as sleazy or arrogant, and this is absolutely Spencer. One aspect of his characterization that I love the most is that he is an action kind of guy. Yes, he says some amazing lines in the story, but his actions speak louder than his words, and they are some great acts. Then we have the heroine Natalia. I want to be her best friend! I admire her dedication, her strength in the field of gymnastics, and her unwillingness to conform. She is also admirable for her love and dedication to her family and the sport she loves, and, while this is not the whole conflict, it does play a part in the conflict. Even though her dedication to the sport causes some problems, I cannot blame her. She has spent her whole life working towards the Olympics and her family has sacrificed for it. I love these two characters apart, but they are amazing together. They are supportive, loving, fun, and hot. I enjoyed every single time they are together. Whether they were talking or having sex, it is all fantastic!
Even the secondary characters in this story are great. The author gives the reader enough information to intrigue us and makes the reader want their stories, and I know I am very excited to see where Carrie Aarons takes them.
The plot is perfection. The exposition and rising action are used expertly to lay the groundwork for their relationship. Carrie Aarons allows the reader to see Nat and Spencer move from “flirty friends” to more. By taking her time to develop them as a couple, I bought into their relationship and became invested. Because I became enthralled with their story, I am that much more devastated when the conflict of the story blows up and it all falls apart. The falling action and resolution of the story are also paced perfectly. There is no quick resolution to their conflict. There is a legitimate fall-out and consequence, and I felt that their reaction to the conflict and climax is realistic for elite athletes in their situation. Finally, the resolution is solid gold. It is happy and sweet, and it put a smile on my face.
On a more serious note, Carrie Aarons also is able to showcase flaws in the gymnastic world, especially on the elite level. What I love most is that the author weaves the truth through the romance so well that it doesn’t overshadow the story or sound preachy. It becomes just another element and not the centerpiece of this fantastic book. When she exposes these ills, I felt sad and found myself shaking my head because I was so disheartened by the treatment of these girls and boys. It is certainly eye-opening, and this look into this world is ultimately what I love about reading. I get to see a wonderful romance but also get to understand relevant topics of the world we live in today.
I have enjoyed both books by Carrie Aarons that I have read, but this book has firmly placed her in my one-click author category. If her name is on it, then I will be buying it. So now, I will sit a patiently wait for any news for the second book in this series, because Gymnasts are going to be my new favorite sports trope!
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ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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July 25, 2016
Blind Landing by Carrie Arrons is a spicy sports romance with a twist. Set in the world of gymnastics with months to the Olympics in Rio we follow Natalia Grekov who’s been training all her life to challenge for the gold medal. Natalia is one of the top gymnasts for USA until the one thing that can stop an athlete in her tracks: Fear. With only a few months to the biggest stage Natalia will ever compete at the last thing she needs is a distraction. Spencer Russell has trained all his life to be the best but after a career ending injury he finds himself coaching his old teammates. Spencer can’t help but notice Natalia struggle and decides to help her work through her fear. Will Spencer help Natalia rise to the podium or will emotions cloud the goal?
Run! Don’t walk to grab Blind Landing. Blind Landing is sexy romp into the world of gymnastics and with so many Olympic sports romances out there this summer Carrie’s stands apart due to her personal knowledge of the sport and descriptive details that allow a novice of gymnastics to picture the scene. I adored this book and loved every detail. Spencer is cocky and heartbroken at losing his chance at Olympic stage but watching him grow into the coaching roll and finding his style. Natalia struggle was heartbreaking to watch. With her goal so close Natalia can taste it. The chemistry is off the charts for them. I’m really happy to see this be a series so we can see more of the sub characters we’ve been introduced to already. I can’t wait to see what Carrie has in store for us next! 5 tumbling passes for Carrie Aarons Blind Landing.
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
Run! Don’t walk to grab Blind Landing. Blind Landing is sexy romp into the world of gymnastics and with so many Olympic sports romances out there this summer Carrie’s stands apart due to her personal knowledge of the sport and descriptive details that allow a novice of gymnastics to picture the scene. I adored this book and loved every detail. Spencer is cocky and heartbroken at losing his chance at Olympic stage but watching him grow into the coaching roll and finding his style. Natalia struggle was heartbreaking to watch. With her goal so close Natalia can taste it. The chemistry is off the charts for them. I’m really happy to see this be a series so we can see more of the sub characters we’ve been introduced to already. I can’t wait to see what Carrie has in store for us next! 5 tumbling passes for Carrie Aarons Blind Landing.
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
August 2, 2016
3.5 stars
With the Olympics around the corner, a book set in the gymnastics setting is just what I needed. I'm a huge fan of sports romance so this book hits my sweet spot. It is abundantly clear early on that the technicalities of the sport are well researched but not laboured in the writing so that you switch off; this background context was well executed.
The book centred around Natalia, an elite gymnast who is so focused on making the USA team that everything else is secondary. One of the male team coaches Spencer is a similar age but resigned to a life of coaching. These two literally bump into one another and there it starts. I enjoyed seeing behind this somewhat brutal training camp and the paces these athletes have to conform to.
My rating arises from a difficulty to connect particularly with Natalia. I just never warmed to her. Spencer was a fun character, a bit of a player who I did like. These two together didn't make me feel their connection. The intimate scenes were well written, I just wasn't transported. I am a fan of this author so it's probably just a case of this one wasn't for me.
The author provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
With the Olympics around the corner, a book set in the gymnastics setting is just what I needed. I'm a huge fan of sports romance so this book hits my sweet spot. It is abundantly clear early on that the technicalities of the sport are well researched but not laboured in the writing so that you switch off; this background context was well executed.
The book centred around Natalia, an elite gymnast who is so focused on making the USA team that everything else is secondary. One of the male team coaches Spencer is a similar age but resigned to a life of coaching. These two literally bump into one another and there it starts. I enjoyed seeing behind this somewhat brutal training camp and the paces these athletes have to conform to.
My rating arises from a difficulty to connect particularly with Natalia. I just never warmed to her. Spencer was a fun character, a bit of a player who I did like. These two together didn't make me feel their connection. The intimate scenes were well written, I just wasn't transported. I am a fan of this author so it's probably just a case of this one wasn't for me.
The author provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
August 19, 2016
3.75 Gold stars.
Great characters, hot moments, a plot that didn’t quite grab me but the characters kept it interesting with their flirting and humour.
The whole Gymnastics thing was lost on me unfortunately, I'm sure the author did lots of research on the whole subject but upto 50% I was struggling with the plot.
I'm sure if the plot was something completely different my interest would of been more piqued.
Told in dual pov's with great characters,Spencer was funny,hot and a great guy while Nataia was flirty,fun,had backbone and humble.
Blind Landing contains a hea and is a standalone, I would definitely read more from this author just not based around the Olympics.
To fellow readers, If you love sports romance and the plot grabs you, you will love it.
Arc gratefully received for honest review
Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookboyfriends
Great characters, hot moments, a plot that didn’t quite grab me but the characters kept it interesting with their flirting and humour.
The whole Gymnastics thing was lost on me unfortunately, I'm sure the author did lots of research on the whole subject but upto 50% I was struggling with the plot.
I'm sure if the plot was something completely different my interest would of been more piqued.
Told in dual pov's with great characters,Spencer was funny,hot and a great guy while Nataia was flirty,fun,had backbone and humble.
Blind Landing contains a hea and is a standalone, I would definitely read more from this author just not based around the Olympics.
To fellow readers, If you love sports romance and the plot grabs you, you will love it.
Arc gratefully received for honest review
Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookboyfriends
August 9, 2016
A sports romance perfect score! This is definitely my favorite Carrie Aarons book to date. The heart and passion she poured into to this book is very evident in the characters, the plot and the feels! The result is a beautiful love story highlighted with determination and inspiration. Extra points for Spence and Nat's improper use of the gym equipment. The story had me conflicted between turning on the Olympics to watch gymnastics and finishing the book. I ended up sort of doing both at once. I had so many feels in this book. Feelings about what the gymnasts both in this book and those in real life endure. It was a bit of an education. Feelings about the characters and their dreams. Even more feels for the characters who would never get to fully fulfill their dreams. The perfect combination of smart humor, heat and emotion. Can't wait for more books in this series!
August 10, 2016
If you love gymnastics, the Olympics, and forbidden romance, STOP what you are doing and purchase this novel!
From the beginning you will fall in love with Nat and her determination to get over her fear. She hasn't ever been afraid to throw a trick in her life so now that she is feeling fear for the first time in her career she will do whatever it takes to get over it. Including taking up the former gymnast turned coach, also the bad boy of gymnastics Spencer.
When these two team up things get combustible! Once they give in to the attraction they have for each other will things get easier or harder for them?
From the beginning you will fall in love with Nat and her determination to get over her fear. She hasn't ever been afraid to throw a trick in her life so now that she is feeling fear for the first time in her career she will do whatever it takes to get over it. Including taking up the former gymnast turned coach, also the bad boy of gymnastics Spencer.
When these two team up things get combustible! Once they give in to the attraction they have for each other will things get easier or harder for them?
July 28, 2016
So... haha. I don't know how to start this because I'm very conflicted about this book. I did enjoy some part of it (like the couple - in a way -, the GYMANSTICS!!, the road to Rio!!, friendship-to-love trope) but I also didn't enjoy some parts.
For me this book was like a TV show I hate to love. It's addicting but it's also problematic. It's cliche as heck but very entertaining. I don't know what to do oh my god
I will write a very detailed review soon I promise.
For me this book was like a TV show I hate to love. It's addicting but it's also problematic. It's cliche as heck but very entertaining. I don't know what to do oh my god
I will write a very detailed review soon I promise.
August 16, 2016
I'm so glad I was recommended this book on Facebook after searching for another gymnastics book after watching the women's all around finals last week. I have been dying to find another Out of Bounds by R.S. Grey because I needed to at least have book form of more gymnastics and this was it! It even takes place (briefly) in Rio for the Olympics which puts more icing on the cake! I'm excited to see that this is a series and where it will lead. :)
Read
August 1, 2016just couldn't get into it
August 4, 2016
First thoughts after reading: absolutely loooooove the dynamics of the story
When I heard that Carrie Aarons is writing a new adult book about gymnasts I just had to read it. I was so curious what the story would be like. I was lucky enough to get an ARC from Carrie. The moment I started reading, I also started falling in love with the story, the characters, and the sport. The book is so nicely written it melted my heart. After reading it I had so many thoughts, which I needed to sort out. It’s like when you have something in mind and you can’t find the thought that was how I felt.
Blind landing is the first book in the new adult series Flipped. Gymnastics is one of my favorite sports so it was a must-read for me. I didn’t expect much, because I didn’t want to be disappointed. I surely wasn’t.
The story focuses on the Filipek’s gym, where the main characters train to get to the Olympics in Rio. Natalia “Nat” Grekov has been training her whole life to fulfill her dreams. She is so close to reaching the gold medal she has always dreamed of. But a sudden accident leaves her in fear. Her confidence is slightly shattered. She needs to let go of the fear and be the best of the best, while she fights the attraction to a fellow gymnast.
One day, my boy, you are going to be completely blindsided by a woman so spectacular, she’ll knock you on your ass and give you a run for your money. You’re going to meet a woman who is everything you are and more, someone who meets you stride for stride. I can’t wait for that day, Spencer.
Spencer “Spence” Russell had his life planned. He would fight to get a place in the Olympic team of the USA. But you don‘t get everything you want. Spence’s future wobbles when an injury cuts his dreams short, leaving him miserable and hollow. Coaching is just a little plaster. Nevertheless, he loves his job - watching the other gymnasts taking a shot at the Olympics, fulfilling their dreams, their once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and helping them get to their goals.
The story is really complex. Carrie created such amazing characters - you will love, hate and even want to be some of them. There are no major twists or turns, but the book is just to fall for. From chapter one I fell for the story, for the characters, for the sport in it and for the easy flow of the storyline. It gave me all the feels. I was mad, happy, blushing, smiling, and anxious and my heart was melting whenever Spence and Nat had an interaction.
It’s so peaceful like this in the morning. Sometimes I can actually feel that place in my heart that first fell in love with gymnastics.
You see, Natalia is not your typical girl next door. She knows what she wants and would do anything to accomplish it. I can’t say anything bad about her. Sometimes I didn’t agree with her decisions, but she believed that it was for the best. She is not shy. Nat is the type of character you either love or hate. I liked her from the beginning. I admired her strong will. She never wanted to fall for Spence, but the best things happen at the most unexpected times. Flirting is ok, but relationship? Not so much. You know what they say though: “You want something, but God has other things prepared for you.” This is how I felt about Nat and Spence. They never wanted a relationship, but as time flew, they got to know each other and fell for each other. I liked how bold Natalia is. She doesn’t give a damn about what others think about her. She focuses on her goal. That is her main priority. I so hope to read more about her in the future.
And then there is Spence. A hero I absolutely adored. He has his own issues, but still stays true to himself. He is cocky, sexy, funny and lovable. Sometimes he acts before he thinks which leads to some nerve wracking situations. He is a really great character. There were moments when I melted. He treated Nat, her friends and his friends with so much respect, it touched my heart. He is such a complex character. He has his ups and downs, but this just proves how realistic he is. I would like to have someone like Spencer in my life.
Women are beautiful things. I appreciate their femininity and their enticing, sweet ways. I appreciate their sauciness and their authority; I appreciate how they always seem to smell like vanilla or flowers. I’ve appreciated my fair share of women up close and personally. But I’ve never appreciated a woman more than I’ve appreciated Natalia Grekov.
The only character I absolutely hated is Novak, the owner and head coach at the Filipek’s. His methods are just sadistic. I didn’t believe that he is doing it for the good of the gymnasts. He likes to torture them, push them to their limits. He even pushes them to the point of no return. He is selfish and coldhearted. He has just one goal in view and that is the Olympics. He would go over corpses to accomplish it and it doesn’t matter to him if he hurts the gymnasts in the process. I’m so glad that in the end he got what he deserved.
In Blind landing Carrie introduces us to a world of gymnastics, hard work, friendship, love and following your dreams. She also shows us that the gymnasts have to sweat blood to reach their goals. I loved the story from the very beginning to the last page. It’s full of humor, scenes that make you swoon, and on top of everything, the supporting characters are incredible. I wouldn’t mind if there were books about them. I enjoyed this read a lot. It’s so beautifully written, that I was often smiling like a maniac. The thing I also liked about this story is that Carrie used her own experience from the time when she did gymnastics, so this makes the book more authentic.
I just can’t wait to read more from this series. I fell in love with it, with its simplicity, its characters and the story as a whole.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
--------------------------------------------------------
This book was freaking awesome. Full review to come soon.
When I heard that Carrie Aarons is writing a new adult book about gymnasts I just had to read it. I was so curious what the story would be like. I was lucky enough to get an ARC from Carrie. The moment I started reading, I also started falling in love with the story, the characters, and the sport. The book is so nicely written it melted my heart. After reading it I had so many thoughts, which I needed to sort out. It’s like when you have something in mind and you can’t find the thought that was how I felt.
Blind landing is the first book in the new adult series Flipped. Gymnastics is one of my favorite sports so it was a must-read for me. I didn’t expect much, because I didn’t want to be disappointed. I surely wasn’t.
The story focuses on the Filipek’s gym, where the main characters train to get to the Olympics in Rio. Natalia “Nat” Grekov has been training her whole life to fulfill her dreams. She is so close to reaching the gold medal she has always dreamed of. But a sudden accident leaves her in fear. Her confidence is slightly shattered. She needs to let go of the fear and be the best of the best, while she fights the attraction to a fellow gymnast.
One day, my boy, you are going to be completely blindsided by a woman so spectacular, she’ll knock you on your ass and give you a run for your money. You’re going to meet a woman who is everything you are and more, someone who meets you stride for stride. I can’t wait for that day, Spencer.
Spencer “Spence” Russell had his life planned. He would fight to get a place in the Olympic team of the USA. But you don‘t get everything you want. Spence’s future wobbles when an injury cuts his dreams short, leaving him miserable and hollow. Coaching is just a little plaster. Nevertheless, he loves his job - watching the other gymnasts taking a shot at the Olympics, fulfilling their dreams, their once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and helping them get to their goals.
The story is really complex. Carrie created such amazing characters - you will love, hate and even want to be some of them. There are no major twists or turns, but the book is just to fall for. From chapter one I fell for the story, for the characters, for the sport in it and for the easy flow of the storyline. It gave me all the feels. I was mad, happy, blushing, smiling, and anxious and my heart was melting whenever Spence and Nat had an interaction.
It’s so peaceful like this in the morning. Sometimes I can actually feel that place in my heart that first fell in love with gymnastics.
You see, Natalia is not your typical girl next door. She knows what she wants and would do anything to accomplish it. I can’t say anything bad about her. Sometimes I didn’t agree with her decisions, but she believed that it was for the best. She is not shy. Nat is the type of character you either love or hate. I liked her from the beginning. I admired her strong will. She never wanted to fall for Spence, but the best things happen at the most unexpected times. Flirting is ok, but relationship? Not so much. You know what they say though: “You want something, but God has other things prepared for you.” This is how I felt about Nat and Spence. They never wanted a relationship, but as time flew, they got to know each other and fell for each other. I liked how bold Natalia is. She doesn’t give a damn about what others think about her. She focuses on her goal. That is her main priority. I so hope to read more about her in the future.
And then there is Spence. A hero I absolutely adored. He has his own issues, but still stays true to himself. He is cocky, sexy, funny and lovable. Sometimes he acts before he thinks which leads to some nerve wracking situations. He is a really great character. There were moments when I melted. He treated Nat, her friends and his friends with so much respect, it touched my heart. He is such a complex character. He has his ups and downs, but this just proves how realistic he is. I would like to have someone like Spencer in my life.
Women are beautiful things. I appreciate their femininity and their enticing, sweet ways. I appreciate their sauciness and their authority; I appreciate how they always seem to smell like vanilla or flowers. I’ve appreciated my fair share of women up close and personally. But I’ve never appreciated a woman more than I’ve appreciated Natalia Grekov.
The only character I absolutely hated is Novak, the owner and head coach at the Filipek’s. His methods are just sadistic. I didn’t believe that he is doing it for the good of the gymnasts. He likes to torture them, push them to their limits. He even pushes them to the point of no return. He is selfish and coldhearted. He has just one goal in view and that is the Olympics. He would go over corpses to accomplish it and it doesn’t matter to him if he hurts the gymnasts in the process. I’m so glad that in the end he got what he deserved.
In Blind landing Carrie introduces us to a world of gymnastics, hard work, friendship, love and following your dreams. She also shows us that the gymnasts have to sweat blood to reach their goals. I loved the story from the very beginning to the last page. It’s full of humor, scenes that make you swoon, and on top of everything, the supporting characters are incredible. I wouldn’t mind if there were books about them. I enjoyed this read a lot. It’s so beautifully written, that I was often smiling like a maniac. The thing I also liked about this story is that Carrie used her own experience from the time when she did gymnastics, so this makes the book more authentic.
I just can’t wait to read more from this series. I fell in love with it, with its simplicity, its characters and the story as a whole.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
--------------------------------------------------------
This book was freaking awesome. Full review to come soon.
September 4, 2019
I got my hands on the ARC of this book, which was very exciting for me, cause it was one of my highly anticipated reads of august :) I gave it 5 full amazing stars, and that was 4,5 for Spence and Nat and 0,5 for all the possibilities of future books cause I loved soooo many secondary characters :) more details in a moment, but before I can concentrate on them, let us take a second to just look at this cover... GAH!!! it's so stunning :) seriously, I fell in love with it the moment I saw it :) but back to the contents of the book... I loved it :) now let me tell you why... :)
I'm gonna start with our main couple :) Spencer is a gymnast-turned-couch after an injury that ended his career... he's open, direct, talkative and a total flirt :) I loved him... he's just arrogant enough that you can't help but smile, but not enough that it bothers you :) he's definitely go-with-the-flow kind of a person, always trying to stay positive :) Natalia is the daughter of polish immigrants, which was very cool for me, cause I'm polish too :) and I never get to read about characters from my country :) that was just a small additional plus from me, more of a curious turns of events ;) ok, moving on... ;) she's actually a bit like him... fearless, brave and open :) fun, but definitely focused on her goal :) the trials for the Olympics, that's just a few months away :) she's one of the best gymnast and after years of sacrifices she and her family made, she has only one thought and goal in mind... gold medal :) usually I connect with one of the main characters more when I read a book, but in this case I loved them both equally :) maybe because they were actually similar ;) their personalities really matched and I loved to see their interactions... now a bit more about them... ;)
They met in a training facility, where he's one of the coaches... :) and even though there was definitely some very interesting chemistry between them, nothing more happened... at least not at first... :) because of her focus on that medal, she don't want anything or anyone to make her loose it... not to mention that getting it on with a coach is a no-no ;) so instead, they decide to be flirty friends... ;) I just love that term... ;) acknowledging the attraction between them, but deciding not to act on it :) and it works quite well... until he uncovers her little secret... because Nat have a problem... a problem with fear, which is worse for her, because it's the first situation like that in her life... so he offers to help her get rid of it, before anyone else realize how serious it is... and let me tell you... those hours spent together in secret from anyone else... the more they work together and get to know each other more, the hotter the attraction grows... ;) and I have to honestly say, that I loved them together... don't get me wrong, they were amazing as individual characters but together... *fans herself* they were fantastic :)
Now about those secondary characters I mentioned earlier... I am actually surprised about the amount of people that I fell in love with in this book... I mean seriously, you could pick anyone of them and give me their story and I would love it... but I do have to admit that a certain single father stole my heart... ;) fingers crossed he'll get his story at some point... I'm not sure when, but I do know that the lovely Carrie is working on a sequel... :) there were also a few gymnasts that definitely grabbed my attention... again, I won't give you names, but that is totally me being vague on purpose... :) the book itself is not super long, so I want you to have a few surprises along the way... but I definitely caught a hint here, a glimpse there about one possible couple... maybe even two.. ;) I am very curious if you will catch them as well :)
This was my fourth book written by the lovely Carrie Aarons and I expect her to always deliver on the writing style... she has yet to disappoint me :) this story was written in 2 POVs, and I am always a fan of that, to be able to get inside of the heads of both main characters, to better understand them :) and don't worry, if you know nothing about gymnastics, like yours truly, you can absolutely enjoyed this book :) but I have to say, that it really shows that the author has experience in this sport... the way she describes all the good and bad sides of it... the way she portrays Nat... even without any knowledge whatsoever, I was able to understand the passion and the drive behind a person putting herself / himself through all of that... all the pain for the body and soul, just so you can achieve that one dream... you can feel the emotions, the love and passion from the pages... but that is exactly what I expect from Carrie's stories... she really pours her heart into these books... you may not love all of them, you may have troubles with characters from time to time, but you can't deny, the raw and honest words you find in all of her stories :) I have to applaud her for creating a book that really pulled me into the world of gymnastics... :) I finished it in one evening :) I really wanted to find some quotes for you because there were so many of them in this book but... well... once I started it, I got immersed into it immediately, and before I knew what was happening I was at the end and... well... I have no excuse, really... ;) just that the book was so great that I forgot about everything else completely... and that is actually a compliment for the author, so I'm going with that ;) definitely give this book a try, it's a fast and fun read, that will make you laugh out loud and gasp in surprise... not to mention all of those little, emotional moments that will hit you in all of the feels when you least expect it :) definitely a must read :)
XOXO
A
I'm gonna start with our main couple :) Spencer is a gymnast-turned-couch after an injury that ended his career... he's open, direct, talkative and a total flirt :) I loved him... he's just arrogant enough that you can't help but smile, but not enough that it bothers you :) he's definitely go-with-the-flow kind of a person, always trying to stay positive :) Natalia is the daughter of polish immigrants, which was very cool for me, cause I'm polish too :) and I never get to read about characters from my country :) that was just a small additional plus from me, more of a curious turns of events ;) ok, moving on... ;) she's actually a bit like him... fearless, brave and open :) fun, but definitely focused on her goal :) the trials for the Olympics, that's just a few months away :) she's one of the best gymnast and after years of sacrifices she and her family made, she has only one thought and goal in mind... gold medal :) usually I connect with one of the main characters more when I read a book, but in this case I loved them both equally :) maybe because they were actually similar ;) their personalities really matched and I loved to see their interactions... now a bit more about them... ;)
They met in a training facility, where he's one of the coaches... :) and even though there was definitely some very interesting chemistry between them, nothing more happened... at least not at first... :) because of her focus on that medal, she don't want anything or anyone to make her loose it... not to mention that getting it on with a coach is a no-no ;) so instead, they decide to be flirty friends... ;) I just love that term... ;) acknowledging the attraction between them, but deciding not to act on it :) and it works quite well... until he uncovers her little secret... because Nat have a problem... a problem with fear, which is worse for her, because it's the first situation like that in her life... so he offers to help her get rid of it, before anyone else realize how serious it is... and let me tell you... those hours spent together in secret from anyone else... the more they work together and get to know each other more, the hotter the attraction grows... ;) and I have to honestly say, that I loved them together... don't get me wrong, they were amazing as individual characters but together... *fans herself* they were fantastic :)
Now about those secondary characters I mentioned earlier... I am actually surprised about the amount of people that I fell in love with in this book... I mean seriously, you could pick anyone of them and give me their story and I would love it... but I do have to admit that a certain single father stole my heart... ;) fingers crossed he'll get his story at some point... I'm not sure when, but I do know that the lovely Carrie is working on a sequel... :) there were also a few gymnasts that definitely grabbed my attention... again, I won't give you names, but that is totally me being vague on purpose... :) the book itself is not super long, so I want you to have a few surprises along the way... but I definitely caught a hint here, a glimpse there about one possible couple... maybe even two.. ;) I am very curious if you will catch them as well :)
This was my fourth book written by the lovely Carrie Aarons and I expect her to always deliver on the writing style... she has yet to disappoint me :) this story was written in 2 POVs, and I am always a fan of that, to be able to get inside of the heads of both main characters, to better understand them :) and don't worry, if you know nothing about gymnastics, like yours truly, you can absolutely enjoyed this book :) but I have to say, that it really shows that the author has experience in this sport... the way she describes all the good and bad sides of it... the way she portrays Nat... even without any knowledge whatsoever, I was able to understand the passion and the drive behind a person putting herself / himself through all of that... all the pain for the body and soul, just so you can achieve that one dream... you can feel the emotions, the love and passion from the pages... but that is exactly what I expect from Carrie's stories... she really pours her heart into these books... you may not love all of them, you may have troubles with characters from time to time, but you can't deny, the raw and honest words you find in all of her stories :) I have to applaud her for creating a book that really pulled me into the world of gymnastics... :) I finished it in one evening :) I really wanted to find some quotes for you because there were so many of them in this book but... well... once I started it, I got immersed into it immediately, and before I knew what was happening I was at the end and... well... I have no excuse, really... ;) just that the book was so great that I forgot about everything else completely... and that is actually a compliment for the author, so I'm going with that ;) definitely give this book a try, it's a fast and fun read, that will make you laugh out loud and gasp in surprise... not to mention all of those little, emotional moments that will hit you in all of the feels when you least expect it :) definitely a must read :)
XOXO
A
March 30, 2021
This was a really great semi light read. It’s nice reading a about a couple that’s not all 100% angst. Spencer and Natalias relationship was the perfect mix of seriousness and humor and I loved their story. Would read again!
July 25, 2016
Title:Blind Landing
Author:Carrie Aarons
Series:Flipped
Publisher:Self
Reviewer:JoAnna
Release Date:August 4, 2016
Genre(s):Forbidden Romance, Sports
Page Count:
Heat Level: 4flames out of 5
Rating: 4.5stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
Gymnastics is my favorite sport in the summer olympics. While I was reading this book it gave me great insight into the sport. The coaches and the main coach, he was an ass. I liked the friendship the girls and guys made. Oh my leotard….. Spencer. I loved Spencer. He wasn't what I thought he was going to be. He was arrogant and cocky. He loved his sport with so much passion. Spence is a couch for the men's Olympic hopefuls. He works for a coach that will do anything to win.
Nat or Natalia has to overcome her fear. She doesn't know what that is like. He is there for her every step of the way. Nat doesn't want any distractions from making her goal of the Olympics. She feels that having him there will take her mind off the things she should be concentrating on. When Spencer sees her sneaking in the the beam gym he follows. He is awesome for her. He is a great friend to her and the guys. The friendship between Spencer and Nat are very palpable. No one can know or find out. The supporting people were good. Peyton’s no nonsense attitude I loved. I can’t wait to read more in this series.
Review Copy of Blind Landing provided by Carrie Aarons/Give Me Books for an honest Review.
Author:Carrie Aarons
Series:Flipped
Publisher:Self
Reviewer:JoAnna
Release Date:August 4, 2016
Genre(s):Forbidden Romance, Sports
Page Count:
Heat Level: 4flames out of 5
Rating: 4.5stars out of 5
Blurb:
Fear stops dreams in their tracks before they even have a chance. Then again, so do injuries.
Natalia Grekov was born to win Olympic gold. As the USA’s top gymnast, she’s calm, confident and ready to make her country proud in just two short months. And her elite athlete lifestyle includes no time for distractions—especially men. When a disastrous fall in practice puts her dreams at risk, it seems the only person who can help her is the one person she wants nothing from.
Spencer Russell is gymnastics’ bad boy. A cocky, laid-back charmer with abs of steel and a witty mouth, he waltzes around the U.S. Gymnastics Training Camp like he owns the place—even though he doesn't anymore. After an injury sidelined his career and any chance at Olympic glory, he’s now just a coach, helping other gymnasts reach their goals. Serious is not a word in Spencer’s vocabulary. But when Natalia tumbles into his life, he's suddenly sincerely interested in helping the blonde beauty in any way he can.
Can they vault over the obstacles standing in their way? Or will Spencer be the distraction that causes Natalia's chance at gold to crash and burn?
Review:
Gymnastics is my favorite sport in the summer olympics. While I was reading this book it gave me great insight into the sport. The coaches and the main coach, he was an ass. I liked the friendship the girls and guys made. Oh my leotard….. Spencer. I loved Spencer. He wasn't what I thought he was going to be. He was arrogant and cocky. He loved his sport with so much passion. Spence is a couch for the men's Olympic hopefuls. He works for a coach that will do anything to win.
Nat or Natalia has to overcome her fear. She doesn't know what that is like. He is there for her every step of the way. Nat doesn't want any distractions from making her goal of the Olympics. She feels that having him there will take her mind off the things she should be concentrating on. When Spencer sees her sneaking in the the beam gym he follows. He is awesome for her. He is a great friend to her and the guys. The friendship between Spencer and Nat are very palpable. No one can know or find out. The supporting people were good. Peyton’s no nonsense attitude I loved. I can’t wait to read more in this series.
Review Copy of Blind Landing provided by Carrie Aarons/Give Me Books for an honest Review.
August 9, 2016
4.5 stars.
Natalia is an elite gymnast headed – hopefully – to the 2016 Olympic Games.
Spencer, a now retired gymnast, (not by choice) works as a coach at one of the country’s premier gymnastic gyms. The same gym Natalia arrived at a few weeks ago.
Naturally, the sparks fly between these two.
Spencer is sort of cocky, the type of man who’s not looking for anything serious. He enjoys playing the field. But Natalia changes all that. She’s hardworking, determined, and seemingly fearless, and he can’t get her off his mind.
Fear - when you’re flipping through the air, fear is the last thing you want to feel. Natalia has it.
Spencer sees it.
Together they can overcome it.
There’s only one catch…
No one can know.
Spencer and Natalia are obviously good together and for one another, but the sneaking around seemed almost too easy. They freely left “campus” together multiple times. Maybe I’m innately paranoid… I’d be looking over my shoulder at every turn. The fact that these two seemed almost unconcerned with getting caught was a little disconcerting.
The raw view Carrie gives us into this cutthroat world is eye opening. We often see young men and women compete at the Olympic Games without even considering what they went through to make it to that point.
Can you imagine beginning expected to contort your body in unnatural directions while flying through the air, unable to see where you’re about to land? Yeah, neither can I. Add in broken bones, torn skin, sore muscles, and incredible amounts of stress… Not too appealing. Admittedly, I don’t know much about gymnastic. Carrie Aarons, on the other hand, is incredibly well versed in what it takes to make it as an elite gymnast, and that knowledge is poured all over each page of this novel. I highly recommend reading Blind Landing.
Natalia is an elite gymnast headed – hopefully – to the 2016 Olympic Games.
Spencer, a now retired gymnast, (not by choice) works as a coach at one of the country’s premier gymnastic gyms. The same gym Natalia arrived at a few weeks ago.
Naturally, the sparks fly between these two.
Spencer is sort of cocky, the type of man who’s not looking for anything serious. He enjoys playing the field. But Natalia changes all that. She’s hardworking, determined, and seemingly fearless, and he can’t get her off his mind.
Fear - when you’re flipping through the air, fear is the last thing you want to feel. Natalia has it.
Spencer sees it.
Together they can overcome it.
There’s only one catch…
No one can know.
Spencer Russell makes everything make sense. He’s the high bar to my low bar. The music to my floor routine. The dismount to my beam.
Spencer and Natalia are obviously good together and for one another, but the sneaking around seemed almost too easy. They freely left “campus” together multiple times. Maybe I’m innately paranoid… I’d be looking over my shoulder at every turn. The fact that these two seemed almost unconcerned with getting caught was a little disconcerting.
The raw view Carrie gives us into this cutthroat world is eye opening. We often see young men and women compete at the Olympic Games without even considering what they went through to make it to that point.
Can you imagine beginning expected to contort your body in unnatural directions while flying through the air, unable to see where you’re about to land? Yeah, neither can I. Add in broken bones, torn skin, sore muscles, and incredible amounts of stress… Not too appealing. Admittedly, I don’t know much about gymnastic. Carrie Aarons, on the other hand, is incredibly well versed in what it takes to make it as an elite gymnast, and that knowledge is poured all over each page of this novel. I highly recommend reading Blind Landing.
August 3, 2016
In gymnastics, a blind landing requires fearlessness, skill, and the ability to trust oneself to complete the vault with both feet still and pressed into the mat.
Natalia Grekov, a premier gymnast, has always been fearless in life and in gymnastics, but when Spencer Russell enters her life and her gym, she questions that bravery not only when she allows her fear of the vault to consume her, but also when Spencer becomes so much more than a “flirty friend,” complicating her dreams and her life in ways that are both exciting and frustrating because her taking this jump with Spencer could leave her falling without a safe landing and/or risking her heart being broken by a man who has the ability to push her as well as destroy her.
Blind Landing is all about taking risks. For Natalia, most of those revolve around her quest for Olympic Gold, remaining focused and fearless. For Spencer, it’s his involvement in the sport that he once ruled but now one he has to settle in as only a coach.
Natalia and Spencer are interesting characters partly because they are so much alike and partly because their stubbornness and competitive nature creates great banter as well as quite steamy scenes because Natalia can definitely give just as well as she receives;)
Carrie Aarons definitely goes for the gold in Blind Landing, and on the cusp of the Summer Olympics hitting television screens this weekend, it’s the perfect introductory celebration for the games and it primes readers for the excitement that will come with the United States Gymnasts hits the mats and shows their fearlessness in their attempt to bring home the gold!
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Natalia Grekov, a premier gymnast, has always been fearless in life and in gymnastics, but when Spencer Russell enters her life and her gym, she questions that bravery not only when she allows her fear of the vault to consume her, but also when Spencer becomes so much more than a “flirty friend,” complicating her dreams and her life in ways that are both exciting and frustrating because her taking this jump with Spencer could leave her falling without a safe landing and/or risking her heart being broken by a man who has the ability to push her as well as destroy her.
Blind Landing is all about taking risks. For Natalia, most of those revolve around her quest for Olympic Gold, remaining focused and fearless. For Spencer, it’s his involvement in the sport that he once ruled but now one he has to settle in as only a coach.
Natalia and Spencer are interesting characters partly because they are so much alike and partly because their stubbornness and competitive nature creates great banter as well as quite steamy scenes because Natalia can definitely give just as well as she receives;)
Carrie Aarons definitely goes for the gold in Blind Landing, and on the cusp of the Summer Olympics hitting television screens this weekend, it’s the perfect introductory celebration for the games and it primes readers for the excitement that will come with the United States Gymnasts hits the mats and shows their fearlessness in their attempt to bring home the gold!
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
August 4, 2016
I love reading about Athlete sport romances, the whole chip on their shoulder and thinking they are the best. I loved this book because it was about gymnastics, as a little girl I would always dream of doing what they could and to finally read a romance novel about it, my dreams came true. (in a sense.) Natalia is sassy while Spence is loveable, their characters was a great combination.
What better way then to kick off the Olympic Games then a book about it!
What better way then to kick off the Olympic Games then a book about it!
August 6, 2016
I enjoyed every page of this book. As a former gymnast, many moons ago, I loved that this story was so accurate in its descriptions of athletes and the world of gymnastics. I will definitely read the next book in this series!
August 3, 2016
Fun, sassy and sexy! What a lovely read. :D Really enjoyed it! Need more Natalia and Spencer though...they were a great couple!
August 9, 2016
To come soon!
August 21, 2016
Simply amazing! I wish all sports books were just like this one!!
February 19, 2023
What does one do when they don't know what to read and have felt a bit of a slump last week for me was quite a down week. Being an HSP and empath, not only have we had lots happening with the weather but in myself and my household, lots of things have been happening and a few unsettled feelings and it affected me. I couldn't read, I hardly ate and so when I did read - I scrolled to some older titles until one jumped out at me and so I gave it a go. Blind Landing was a good new adult romance set in the world of gymnastics, which is a sport I have always admired and wish that I could have been more coordinated and started gymnastics when I was younger but with costs, we just couldn't afford things like this but I have always loved watching it on TV as the things they do are just so graceful as they move so fluidly through their routines. Blind Landing is not only a story of overcoming fear and conquering the dream of gold at the Olympics but also a new adult romance read between a coach and gymnast, but do not fear - they are both consenting adults and only 5 years between the pair with our female Nat being 19ish and our coach Spencer - 23 years old. Blind Landing is one of those contemporary New Adult romances that you can read and not think much about - it's a mindless read that if you are having a week where you can't concentrate deeply, these types of reads just hit the spot. Also after reading this book, I went on Youtube and rewatched some of my favourite parts of the gymnastics movie "Stick It", especially Wei Wei's beam routine.
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