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Superstar Duet #1
Five-Star
Tank Howard made headlines when he shocked the college football world by signing with Coach Franco’s non-BSC contender, Kensington State. Amber Johnson narrowly avoided making news following a harrowing accident that left her more than a little scarred. Three years later, as the profile of Kensington State begins to rise, Tank and Amber meet when she falls at his feet – literally. Although Tank needs to focus on football and Amber needs to focus on healing, neither one of them is able to fight their attraction.
As the season heats up so does their relationship and their struggle to navigate through his fame, her infamy, and the expectations of the season. When an agent comes after Tank, everything is on the his relationship with Amber, his shot at the Heisman and the career of Franco. Figuring it all out may be his greatest audible yet.
As the season heats up so does their relationship and their struggle to navigate through his fame, her infamy, and the expectations of the season. When an agent comes after Tank, everything is on the his relationship with Amber, his shot at the Heisman and the career of Franco. Figuring it all out may be his greatest audible yet.
- GenresSports
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2016
About the author
J. Santiago
13 books77 followersJ. Santiago is a graduate of Villanova University and the University of Pennsylvania. She gets her love of sports from her fifteen year career in the field and a houseful of boys who love to play. A former English and history teacher, she understands and embraces the power of stories in our lives.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 24, 2018
This book has a depth that many narratives out there has not. Each one of the character add somethin to the storyline they are not there to make the protagonists feel bad or good.
Tank and Amber have major issues that are not in evento begin to be written. That author has a good balance btw sorrow and kindness.
Their love story is not a one that is easy and rocks in the way. Its like a real one. And you just cant let it go and just want to see how they handle this.
Its a formidable love story.
Tank and Amber have major issues that are not in evento begin to be written. That author has a good balance btw sorrow and kindness.
Their love story is not a one that is easy and rocks in the way. Its like a real one. And you just cant let it go and just want to see how they handle this.
Its a formidable love story.
September 1, 2016
Are you serious????? I am so mad at these characters, and their inevitability to make the wrong decisions. Five-Star was a great interracial story about the star athlete, and the beautiful coach's daughter. Being raised in the football world, it is only naturally to see Amber steer toward the limelight athlete. They have so much in common, and her knowledge and dedication to the sport would make her the perfect girl. I would call her a fan girl, but I see it as an injustice comparing her to the bumbling, giggling blondes that fall at the stars feet. While I guess she totally does fall at this stars feet, but that was for totally different reasons.☺ Amber could ramble stats that would make even the most devoted sports fan head spin, and she knows more about the game than most men. It is unfortunate that her past hides so many shadows. Rowdy did quite a number on her emotionally and physically; even if all them were not intentionally at his hand. This young woman is trying to limp through recovering from the skeletons and wounds with no intentions of help from someone like Tank. From the first moment they meet I could see the perfection in their pairing. If only their actions were not like gasoline and a match. With every bad decision these two begin a volleyball match of even worse decisions. It was so infuriating watching this story play out. In the end, I am happy to see the subsequent improvement to Amber's health and emotion even if it includes a world of destruction to her heart. After the extent to which they had retaliated against each other it was only inevitable to see them at a crossroad of certainty that would separate them. It is hard for me to express the hatred that I had at seeing them motivated in opposite directions, but it a paramount decision that I believe added to Amber's character and her healing. I do not look for this to be the last book here, and I look for a resolution after these two young people have had time to grow and mature. I can not accept that this would be the end for Amber and Tank, as the world does not make matches more perfect that they are for each other. J. Santiago wrote an impressive novel here. It was packed full for the sports fan, and it was an aggressive and powerful romance. I, not being the overwhelming sports fan, learned some from just this experience, but I would see where a sports fan might find this to fit right in their perfect pocket. Congrats to the author, and I hope to see more.
~BookWhisperer Reviewer JO~
~BookWhisperer Reviewer JO~
September 21, 2016
Kitty's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved Five-Star. I was totally blown away by the story, the characters and the way J. Santiago brought us through the trials, tribulations and decisions that were made.
Both Tank and Amber were intense, complex characters. They each had their own problems, their own pasts and didn’t want any entanglement to interfere with what they were dealing with. The attraction was too strong and there was only one place they were going to end up.
We meet Tank first. We understand why he made the decisions he did and just where his life was heading. But, his ego may be his biggest downfall. He knows he’s the best, he knows he can have whoever he wants, he knows what’s waiting for him after college. He just doesn’t know what’s being done without his knowledge and how far it can make him fall. He’s also not prepared for Amber or what he will do to protect her.
Amber has her own problems. She was a woman who hid the truth from the people she loved most. It was hard to be honest with them when she couldn’t face it herself. But, Tank brings out feelings she never thought she would have again. He has her rethinking her relationship with her father, makes her see a side of herself that she was ignoring, when she tells him the absolute truth about who she is and her past, he doesn’t walk away and he didn’t balk at her scars. Unfortunately, in his attempt to protect her, he lost her trust and there is nothing that he can do to get it back.
Coach Franco, Molly, Kierra, Tilly and Iman are all supporting characters that lend credence to the story, that bring out the best and worst of both of them. My heart broke for Coach, my heart smiled as Kierra and Tilly made a go of it, I laughed at Iman and his sense of duty. Then, in the end, I sat with my mouth hanging open and shocked at the way everything ended. I could only hope that J. Santiago is following up Five-Star with another story. I cannot be left hanging like this. Yes, it was ended neatly but not the way I would have expected it, the way I wanted it. I knew Amber had a chip, I knew she was a hard-ass. I knew Tank had an ego. I never once imagined he would do what he did or she wouldn’t find a way to forgive him.
I was totally impressed with the way J. Santiago brought us through the college football genre. If you aren’t a football fan, you will understand what’s going on … I promise. The story is more about what goes on around the game than in the game. The decisions that are made and what goes into them. The problems the players and coaches face on a daily basis. The pressure of being in contention for the top spot and possibility of being a Heisman Trophy contender. When you mix all of this together, add in each of their pasts and problems, there was no way for Tank and his Sunshine to face anything but controversy. I do have to comment on one “laugh out loud” moment in this story. If you didn’t know by the cover, this is an interracial story and I absolutely loved how it was handled. The “Swirl”, that’s what Tank called it … and I loved it! It was handled with grace and style and love that J. Santiago did it that way – didn’t make a big deal of it or emphasize it more that it had to be.
I was an emotional wreck at the end of the story. Happy for Coach. Happy for Amber. Totally blown away with Tank. I’m still in shock just thinking of how Five-Star ended.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved Five-Star. I was totally blown away by the story, the characters and the way J. Santiago brought us through the trials, tribulations and decisions that were made.
Both Tank and Amber were intense, complex characters. They each had their own problems, their own pasts and didn’t want any entanglement to interfere with what they were dealing with. The attraction was too strong and there was only one place they were going to end up.
We meet Tank first. We understand why he made the decisions he did and just where his life was heading. But, his ego may be his biggest downfall. He knows he’s the best, he knows he can have whoever he wants, he knows what’s waiting for him after college. He just doesn’t know what’s being done without his knowledge and how far it can make him fall. He’s also not prepared for Amber or what he will do to protect her.
Amber has her own problems. She was a woman who hid the truth from the people she loved most. It was hard to be honest with them when she couldn’t face it herself. But, Tank brings out feelings she never thought she would have again. He has her rethinking her relationship with her father, makes her see a side of herself that she was ignoring, when she tells him the absolute truth about who she is and her past, he doesn’t walk away and he didn’t balk at her scars. Unfortunately, in his attempt to protect her, he lost her trust and there is nothing that he can do to get it back.
Coach Franco, Molly, Kierra, Tilly and Iman are all supporting characters that lend credence to the story, that bring out the best and worst of both of them. My heart broke for Coach, my heart smiled as Kierra and Tilly made a go of it, I laughed at Iman and his sense of duty. Then, in the end, I sat with my mouth hanging open and shocked at the way everything ended. I could only hope that J. Santiago is following up Five-Star with another story. I cannot be left hanging like this. Yes, it was ended neatly but not the way I would have expected it, the way I wanted it. I knew Amber had a chip, I knew she was a hard-ass. I knew Tank had an ego. I never once imagined he would do what he did or she wouldn’t find a way to forgive him.
I was totally impressed with the way J. Santiago brought us through the college football genre. If you aren’t a football fan, you will understand what’s going on … I promise. The story is more about what goes on around the game than in the game. The decisions that are made and what goes into them. The problems the players and coaches face on a daily basis. The pressure of being in contention for the top spot and possibility of being a Heisman Trophy contender. When you mix all of this together, add in each of their pasts and problems, there was no way for Tank and his Sunshine to face anything but controversy. I do have to comment on one “laugh out loud” moment in this story. If you didn’t know by the cover, this is an interracial story and I absolutely loved how it was handled. The “Swirl”, that’s what Tank called it … and I loved it! It was handled with grace and style and love that J. Santiago did it that way – didn’t make a big deal of it or emphasize it more that it had to be.
I was an emotional wreck at the end of the story. Happy for Coach. Happy for Amber. Totally blown away with Tank. I’m still in shock just thinking of how Five-Star ended.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
August 29, 2016
This book was an excellent and entertaining read the only down side was did not have an ending just a cliffhanger (no spoilers here). The story revolves around a girl called Amber. Her dad had her when he was just 16 and the mother gave her up that was 23 years ago he had a hand in raising her but went away to school so was left with his mum and she was raised with her aunt's and uncle's the youngest was 3 when she was born. Her dad now is a football coach in steps her love interest Tank. Tank is her dad's star player and he did not like that they started seeing each other. Tank was also raised by a single mother and he does not get on with his dad that's an understatement (read and find out). Amber has problems she is dealing with. I would recommend this book to read and hope Amber and Tank gets a second book continuing there story.
Read
August 25, 2016I may not be the biggest sports enthusiast, also not the biggest hater, with that being said I think this story is brilliant either way your opinion lays. Romance fans shouldn't be hesitant to take a chance on this book due to its highly relevent sports content. I loved the book, and thought the view into college football was a fascinating added element to the book. The dynamics between the various characters and the over realness of the story was truly compelling. I will definitely be looking into other J. Santiago's work after reading this. 100% recommend!
February 6, 2017
*I received this book from NetGalley and ASJ LLC in return for a fair review.*
A few notes:
1) hard to write review without spoilers for . . reasons
2) be careful about expectations and categories with this book.
this is a slice of life book that includes college football, a coach, a coach's daughter, and a top tier football QB. There is some sports action, but very little on field stuff. There is more than one couple involved in this book but I would be hesitant to label this a capital R Romance (). Though there is sex and a bit of romancing. There is also a bit of 'timing matters'; & families can be good and bad.
3) I spent a certain amount of time, while reading this book assuming that I would rate this around 4 stars, but it grew on me and I rather enjoyed it.
4) As far as I know, no LGBT person or issues occurred in this hook (though there was one joke that I do not recall completely involving a question asked in a joking manner without expectations of a yes answer - 'what, are you or Tilly gay?')
The book follows several people's point of view, though 'stars' mostly Amber Johnson and Tank Howard. Amber being an early 20-something young woman who had just recently been in a fatal car accident. Well, recent enough that she is still rehabbing from it, but the accident might have been a year ago (or 6 months, I forget if it was specifically stated). While rehabbing she also makes a few extra dollars working in a bar.
Meanwhile Tank Howard is the 'five star' of the book title. As in he is a five star football athlete. Don't ask me what that means exactly. Though I know that means he is a top-tier football talent/prospect. The book opens with Tank at a press conference, as a high school student declaring which college he will be going to. Because of fairly obvious reasons, Tank ends up at a college he did not expect when the morning began that day - a small school with an unimpressive football program, though it is division I. or 1. Or . . um, something. Tank ends up playing for a guy most people seem to call 'Franco', since that's his name (last name) Franco.
Coach Franco also has a point of view in this book, and even, somewhat shocking me since I hadn't realized what kind of book I was actually getting involved with, sexual encounters. Coach Franco has a daughter that most do not know exists (ETA: this may or may not be needed to be noted, I noticed just now while rereading my review (9/9/2016) - Coach Franco does not have a sexual relationship with his daughter. I felt the need to add that now because I realize I go from 'shockingly, Franco has sex' to immediately state 'Franco has a daughter not many know about').
There's a tradition that exists with the football team that Tank is on, a tradition stretching back 20 or so years - the team goes out for drinks before the season starts (I believe that it is after the first preseason game -though the story that gets told about the first outing - 20 yeas ago, seemed to indicate that it occurred after the first practice). I mention because that night Tank and Amber meet for the first time. With Amber literally falling at . . . well, not really at his feet though that's what he says later, and I think the description says that as well. Not important. Tank was sitting. Amber was working and then had to go back to the kitchen. Tries to get around a huge football player who was kind of blocking the way. Touches him. That guys girlfriend charges forward and grabs Amber's arm. Amber collapses and literally passes out.
Tank and Amber then proceed to circle each other. Amber is reluctant because Tank is a football player, and she's had some bad luck with them. Tank's reluctant because Amber is bitchy - though that also intrigues him to a certain extent - since he can and does have any other woman he wants.
It should be noted that there is also a 'Molly', a compliance officer at the school. Mentioned for various reasons but also because she and Franco also have a 'circling each other' thing going on. Plus, one of the oddest things I've seen occurs with Molly - immediately after seeing his daughter being carried off, presumably for sex, Franco goes and has sex himself. Apparently for the first time in 2 are more years. That . . . kind of felt vaguely icky to me. hehe. 'I see my daughter is getting some; I'll go have some myself!' hehe - no that isn't actually either his thoughts, nor his thought process. But yeah, Franco and Molly also circle each other in this book.
There are other couples and/or groupie hook-ups, but none of the others have POV people, so I not mention them more than that they exist.
This was an interesting book. I enjoyed it. Somewhat unexpectedly enjoyed it. At a 5 star level. I reiterate that you, reader, need to be careful of categories with this book. Because it isn't really a Romance book, though it has romance in it.
September 3 2016
A few notes:
1) hard to write review without spoilers for . . reasons
2) be careful about expectations and categories with this book.
this is a slice of life book that includes college football, a coach, a coach's daughter, and a top tier football QB. There is some sports action, but very little on field stuff. There is more than one couple involved in this book but I would be hesitant to label this a capital R Romance (). Though there is sex and a bit of romancing. There is also a bit of 'timing matters'; & families can be good and bad.
3) I spent a certain amount of time, while reading this book assuming that I would rate this around 4 stars, but it grew on me and I rather enjoyed it.
4) As far as I know, no LGBT person or issues occurred in this hook (though there was one joke that I do not recall completely involving a question asked in a joking manner without expectations of a yes answer - 'what, are you or Tilly gay?')
The book follows several people's point of view, though 'stars' mostly Amber Johnson and Tank Howard. Amber being an early 20-something young woman who had just recently been in a fatal car accident. Well, recent enough that she is still rehabbing from it, but the accident might have been a year ago (or 6 months, I forget if it was specifically stated). While rehabbing she also makes a few extra dollars working in a bar.
Meanwhile Tank Howard is the 'five star' of the book title. As in he is a five star football athlete. Don't ask me what that means exactly. Though I know that means he is a top-tier football talent/prospect. The book opens with Tank at a press conference, as a high school student declaring which college he will be going to. Because of fairly obvious reasons, Tank ends up at a college he did not expect when the morning began that day - a small school with an unimpressive football program, though it is division I. or 1. Or . . um, something. Tank ends up playing for a guy most people seem to call 'Franco', since that's his name (last name) Franco.
Coach Franco also has a point of view in this book, and even, somewhat shocking me since I hadn't realized what kind of book I was actually getting involved with, sexual encounters. Coach Franco has a daughter that most do not know exists (ETA: this may or may not be needed to be noted, I noticed just now while rereading my review (9/9/2016) - Coach Franco does not have a sexual relationship with his daughter. I felt the need to add that now because I realize I go from 'shockingly, Franco has sex' to immediately state 'Franco has a daughter not many know about').
There's a tradition that exists with the football team that Tank is on, a tradition stretching back 20 or so years - the team goes out for drinks before the season starts (I believe that it is after the first preseason game -though the story that gets told about the first outing - 20 yeas ago, seemed to indicate that it occurred after the first practice). I mention because that night Tank and Amber meet for the first time. With Amber literally falling at . . . well, not really at his feet though that's what he says later, and I think the description says that as well. Not important. Tank was sitting. Amber was working and then had to go back to the kitchen. Tries to get around a huge football player who was kind of blocking the way. Touches him. That guys girlfriend charges forward and grabs Amber's arm. Amber collapses and literally passes out.
Tank and Amber then proceed to circle each other. Amber is reluctant because Tank is a football player, and she's had some bad luck with them. Tank's reluctant because Amber is bitchy - though that also intrigues him to a certain extent - since he can and does have any other woman he wants.
It should be noted that there is also a 'Molly', a compliance officer at the school. Mentioned for various reasons but also because she and Franco also have a 'circling each other' thing going on. Plus, one of the oddest things I've seen occurs with Molly - immediately after seeing his daughter being carried off, presumably for sex, Franco goes and has sex himself. Apparently for the first time in 2 are more years. That . . . kind of felt vaguely icky to me. hehe. 'I see my daughter is getting some; I'll go have some myself!' hehe - no that isn't actually either his thoughts, nor his thought process. But yeah, Franco and Molly also circle each other in this book.
There are other couples and/or groupie hook-ups, but none of the others have POV people, so I not mention them more than that they exist.
This was an interesting book. I enjoyed it. Somewhat unexpectedly enjoyed it. At a 5 star level. I reiterate that you, reader, need to be careful of categories with this book. Because it isn't really a Romance book, though it has romance in it.
September 3 2016
September 8, 2016
I have a love hate relationship with this book. Both characters were immature and at times, incredibly unlikable. But then there were these brilliant moments that just grabbed you. The author has a unique voice and I was drawn her writing style despite not being thrilled with the characters. By the end I was leaning towards love. UNTIL the bloody end. Boy howdy was I mad. If I didn't love my kindle so much I would have chucked it. Cliffhanger doesn't begin to describe the end of this a book. Beware. I would get my ducks a in a row before reading this one. I need to get my hands on the next book but I'm still too mad to read it. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2016
ARC kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review......
Well, this started with so much promise. Tank and Amber, I was loving their relationship build up to lovers. Then the UNSPEAKABLE happens.......(squint if you don't want to see......cheating). A HUGE HELL NO for me !!!. Then it just went down hill from there for me.
Amber admittedly did me proud in the story by telling Tank to hit the road (although she loved him, the trust was gone). Can I get an AMEN !!!!, but then alas my inner happiness had been marred irrevocably by the whole story line.
So sorry peeps it was okay up to a point then the slippy slide to dissapointsville !!!!
Thanks for the opportunity and well done J.
Later peeps xx
Well, this started with so much promise. Tank and Amber, I was loving their relationship build up to lovers. Then the UNSPEAKABLE happens.......(squint if you don't want to see......cheating). A HUGE HELL NO for me !!!. Then it just went down hill from there for me.
Amber admittedly did me proud in the story by telling Tank to hit the road (although she loved him, the trust was gone). Can I get an AMEN !!!!, but then alas my inner happiness had been marred irrevocably by the whole story line.
So sorry peeps it was okay up to a point then the slippy slide to dissapointsville !!!!
Thanks for the opportunity and well done J.
Later peeps xx
September 5, 2016
Believable, every day characters who are struggling with their own individual issues. Loved the plot twists as well as the secondary romance. The ending was perfect - not a cliffhanger but enough to leave you wanting more. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Looking forward to the sequel!
September 21, 2016
Anthony “Tank” Howard had been working toward this day since what felt like forever. But today would be his day to declare what college program he was going to sign with. Of which there had been no question for a long time. Everyone had known since he was fifteen that he wanted to sign with Georgia State to be coached with Whitey and Franco. He never wanted it to be this way with all this fanfare. His mother Chantel Jones who had never really had a good word to say about her sperm donor, his father, had taken his unsolicited advice on this and had him visit all his options and then have this day too.
You see Tank always knew state was it for him. The sperm donor who had messed it up had messed up his own chances by gambling it away got say in how he did thing, really? So when it was Tanks big day he could grab the limelight by coming in late for the proceedings all dressed in Georgia State garb the limelight meant for his son was now on him. He was still Tank’s thunder by giving his choice away. Making it perfectly clear to Tank he from day one had never wanted to claim Tank he was always and still was all about himself. He had talked his mother into the hoopla of a day with all the bells and whistles for himself.
At that moment Tank felt an anger he had never felt before ever. Quickly going over his options because he knew this was playing out on national television. Once it was clear in his head he decided that he was doing the right thing. He decided to turn this signing day on its ear. He reached down and picked up a hat and announced, “I am going to Kensington State. I am going to be a Bear.”
Three years in, if you asked him, he would never really admit it but his father’s showboating had everything to do with his decision to go to Kensington. The rest had to do with the friendship and honesty he received from his coach well back then recruiter, Mike Franco. Even though Mike would not be at state after all he would be going to Kensington, he advised Tank in his best interest it would be for him to go the state where they had more to offer. That meant something to him. The other thing was when he went on the tour freshman Tilly Lace says don’t believe half the things they promise you while the woo you. Truth that’s what he really remembered when faced with a liar and a snake known as his father.
Three years in and Tank was really and truly getting noticed already. He needed his posse when he went anywhere to block his fans. Nobody dared messed with his 300-pound team member’s that is for sure. Because although he loved all the fame and hoopla he somethings would get surrounded and who knew what could happen. So it was the beginning of the new season and tradition had it that the team as a whole was to go out and party. They were known in the past to get out of hand. With the new age of multimedia that is not something their team or Tank himself could afford. There was already talk of the Heisman in Tank’s future. So coach called him in as team captain and the most to lose. That he needed to keep his team members in check. He said he had it handled. They were going to The Bear’s Den dedicated to the team’s theme and school colors and mascot. Fans from all over liked to come on this night to mingle with the team.
On this night a local hometown girl, Amber Johnson, was back working at the den. She was like one of the family as far as the owners were concerned. Especially, to her best friend and sister of the heart Keira. At the den she dressed and left to all her dances and proms. You see Amber’s parents were very young when they had her both 16. But from day the day of her birth her mom didn’t want her so she gave her to her dad and his parents. Her dad still went to school but every free moment he spent with her. So while her dad was away for work Keira’s family stepped in for this kind of stuff. His dad’s big family did all the rest. But the den was also where she stole her first drink in the back by the pool tables. So lots of memories.
Being that he was a single father at 16 it only made sense. But until he was picked up as a pro football player she was around him as much as possible. Her grandparents made sure of that. She was at his college stadium almost every day to watch his practices and games. Amber knows stats as well as any guy if not better than most. In fact, when her and her father would talk is was about the breakdown of what happened on the field during the game sometimes she would catch things he or his staff would miss.
She came home early from college due to a horrific accident that left her scared than more ways than one but she suffered physical scars also. She was arranged through strings to have PT with the therapist for the Kensington team. Which has been kicking her ass. This will be her second night back at The Bear’s Den and she’s already tired. From the accident she has a bad leg that is already lagging from PT also so she is glad she only has to work behind the bar. She has a mean looking scar on the right side of her face on her jawline mouth to neck with marbling. But she keeps it hidden by braiding her hair to the right and putting a hat on.
Now it was well past midnight and her leg was really lagging and she was heading toward the kitchen to take a much needed break. She had to dodge the team of players and half the town to get there. As she came upon one of the players from behind in order not to get stepped on, to let him know she was there and to balance herself she put her hand on the small of the back of a huge team player’s back. She stood up as far as she could and said, “Excuse me,” to get by so she could go through. Wrong move.
The woman on the other side of the player is the jealous type. She must not have heard what she said. All she saw was a platinum blonde leaning into her man. Amber was so tired she was slow to react. So when the larger women in tights, wrenched Amber’s arm off the players back. The jerking motion was too much for Amber’s leg. She went down hard even though she tried to break her fall or at the least her balance. When she hit the floor full force knocking her out.
Tank got up from his cover of his posse wall from the overzealous crowd and went to the aid or the platinum blonde, when Cynthia, Marsh’s girlfriend took her out. She took no shit from anyone and wouldn’t take kindly to the spindly given Stefani-look-alike touching her man. He wondered if they wouldn’t get in trouble for the girl fight? Tank was hoping to thwart Cynthia when the blonde went down-hard. Marsh was pissed when he said to her, “What the fuck, Cyn? Are you crazy?” Showing that he had a pair for saying that though, at least the next couple of days for sure. Tank looked at Tilly before dropping to his knees and scooping up the sprite, Amber.
Tilly’s gold teeth, flashed as he caught Tank’s expression. Tank lifted her and they headed to the kitchen doors behind them. They were worried Tank sent Tilly back to the bar for a first aid kit. As Tank was assessing her he saw her scar she had hidden behind the braid. She was small waisted, ample chest, and very long legs. She had such a skinny frame. When her head fell sideways he got a better look at the scar not and it was worst that was little he saw by her mouth. When flopped to the side he was confronted with her mean looking red scar. It must have happened when she fell and Tank let out a curse. Tilly said a glass must have shattered in the fall. That’s when he noticed she was wearing a Bear’s Den shirt. Tank told him he should get Mark because she must work there.
Even with the scar she was “HOT.” That was all Tank could think of. His gaze made its way back up to her eyes. As he was doing so he was wondering what color her eyes were. The wonder was over. He made eye contact as he got there with a pair of dark chocolate eyes. Smiling because he was so glad she woke up he said, “Great you’re awake.”
She on the other hand not so friendly says, “Did you get a good look perv?”
Tank couldn’t help it he nodded yes! With a huge smile. Not making any points.
Hostility. “I’ll assume that’s from being knocked off your ass and hitting your head. Do you feel okay?”
All Amber could think was “Seriously?” That she had the “luck of the damned.” Without being told and just by his light green eyes she was staring at this was Tank Howard. Although she was grateful for his help she was in the fight or flight mode at that moment. With her past history she needed to get away from Tank Howard and fast. The best way to do that sarcasm.
Sit back and enjoy this intense engulfing read. The characters are funny, emotionally gripping even after the read is over, and the saga is one that has a very surprising ending that in most stories would have made me mad this one not at all. Yet, it left me hopeful that maybe just maybe there may be hope for them in another book if this turns into a series. I so want to do an interview with the author for I have so many questions I hope to get answers to. Because this is the second day since I have finished it and well I have to say it is sticking with me. I give this book 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
You see Tank always knew state was it for him. The sperm donor who had messed it up had messed up his own chances by gambling it away got say in how he did thing, really? So when it was Tanks big day he could grab the limelight by coming in late for the proceedings all dressed in Georgia State garb the limelight meant for his son was now on him. He was still Tank’s thunder by giving his choice away. Making it perfectly clear to Tank he from day one had never wanted to claim Tank he was always and still was all about himself. He had talked his mother into the hoopla of a day with all the bells and whistles for himself.
At that moment Tank felt an anger he had never felt before ever. Quickly going over his options because he knew this was playing out on national television. Once it was clear in his head he decided that he was doing the right thing. He decided to turn this signing day on its ear. He reached down and picked up a hat and announced, “I am going to Kensington State. I am going to be a Bear.”
Three years in, if you asked him, he would never really admit it but his father’s showboating had everything to do with his decision to go to Kensington. The rest had to do with the friendship and honesty he received from his coach well back then recruiter, Mike Franco. Even though Mike would not be at state after all he would be going to Kensington, he advised Tank in his best interest it would be for him to go the state where they had more to offer. That meant something to him. The other thing was when he went on the tour freshman Tilly Lace says don’t believe half the things they promise you while the woo you. Truth that’s what he really remembered when faced with a liar and a snake known as his father.
Three years in and Tank was really and truly getting noticed already. He needed his posse when he went anywhere to block his fans. Nobody dared messed with his 300-pound team member’s that is for sure. Because although he loved all the fame and hoopla he somethings would get surrounded and who knew what could happen. So it was the beginning of the new season and tradition had it that the team as a whole was to go out and party. They were known in the past to get out of hand. With the new age of multimedia that is not something their team or Tank himself could afford. There was already talk of the Heisman in Tank’s future. So coach called him in as team captain and the most to lose. That he needed to keep his team members in check. He said he had it handled. They were going to The Bear’s Den dedicated to the team’s theme and school colors and mascot. Fans from all over liked to come on this night to mingle with the team.
On this night a local hometown girl, Amber Johnson, was back working at the den. She was like one of the family as far as the owners were concerned. Especially, to her best friend and sister of the heart Keira. At the den she dressed and left to all her dances and proms. You see Amber’s parents were very young when they had her both 16. But from day the day of her birth her mom didn’t want her so she gave her to her dad and his parents. Her dad still went to school but every free moment he spent with her. So while her dad was away for work Keira’s family stepped in for this kind of stuff. His dad’s big family did all the rest. But the den was also where she stole her first drink in the back by the pool tables. So lots of memories.
Being that he was a single father at 16 it only made sense. But until he was picked up as a pro football player she was around him as much as possible. Her grandparents made sure of that. She was at his college stadium almost every day to watch his practices and games. Amber knows stats as well as any guy if not better than most. In fact, when her and her father would talk is was about the breakdown of what happened on the field during the game sometimes she would catch things he or his staff would miss.
She came home early from college due to a horrific accident that left her scared than more ways than one but she suffered physical scars also. She was arranged through strings to have PT with the therapist for the Kensington team. Which has been kicking her ass. This will be her second night back at The Bear’s Den and she’s already tired. From the accident she has a bad leg that is already lagging from PT also so she is glad she only has to work behind the bar. She has a mean looking scar on the right side of her face on her jawline mouth to neck with marbling. But she keeps it hidden by braiding her hair to the right and putting a hat on.
Now it was well past midnight and her leg was really lagging and she was heading toward the kitchen to take a much needed break. She had to dodge the team of players and half the town to get there. As she came upon one of the players from behind in order not to get stepped on, to let him know she was there and to balance herself she put her hand on the small of the back of a huge team player’s back. She stood up as far as she could and said, “Excuse me,” to get by so she could go through. Wrong move.
The woman on the other side of the player is the jealous type. She must not have heard what she said. All she saw was a platinum blonde leaning into her man. Amber was so tired she was slow to react. So when the larger women in tights, wrenched Amber’s arm off the players back. The jerking motion was too much for Amber’s leg. She went down hard even though she tried to break her fall or at the least her balance. When she hit the floor full force knocking her out.
Tank got up from his cover of his posse wall from the overzealous crowd and went to the aid or the platinum blonde, when Cynthia, Marsh’s girlfriend took her out. She took no shit from anyone and wouldn’t take kindly to the spindly given Stefani-look-alike touching her man. He wondered if they wouldn’t get in trouble for the girl fight? Tank was hoping to thwart Cynthia when the blonde went down-hard. Marsh was pissed when he said to her, “What the fuck, Cyn? Are you crazy?” Showing that he had a pair for saying that though, at least the next couple of days for sure. Tank looked at Tilly before dropping to his knees and scooping up the sprite, Amber.
Tilly’s gold teeth, flashed as he caught Tank’s expression. Tank lifted her and they headed to the kitchen doors behind them. They were worried Tank sent Tilly back to the bar for a first aid kit. As Tank was assessing her he saw her scar she had hidden behind the braid. She was small waisted, ample chest, and very long legs. She had such a skinny frame. When her head fell sideways he got a better look at the scar not and it was worst that was little he saw by her mouth. When flopped to the side he was confronted with her mean looking red scar. It must have happened when she fell and Tank let out a curse. Tilly said a glass must have shattered in the fall. That’s when he noticed she was wearing a Bear’s Den shirt. Tank told him he should get Mark because she must work there.
Even with the scar she was “HOT.” That was all Tank could think of. His gaze made its way back up to her eyes. As he was doing so he was wondering what color her eyes were. The wonder was over. He made eye contact as he got there with a pair of dark chocolate eyes. Smiling because he was so glad she woke up he said, “Great you’re awake.”
She on the other hand not so friendly says, “Did you get a good look perv?”
Tank couldn’t help it he nodded yes! With a huge smile. Not making any points.
Hostility. “I’ll assume that’s from being knocked off your ass and hitting your head. Do you feel okay?”
All Amber could think was “Seriously?” That she had the “luck of the damned.” Without being told and just by his light green eyes she was staring at this was Tank Howard. Although she was grateful for his help she was in the fight or flight mode at that moment. With her past history she needed to get away from Tank Howard and fast. The best way to do that sarcasm.
Sit back and enjoy this intense engulfing read. The characters are funny, emotionally gripping even after the read is over, and the saga is one that has a very surprising ending that in most stories would have made me mad this one not at all. Yet, it left me hopeful that maybe just maybe there may be hope for them in another book if this turns into a series. I so want to do an interview with the author for I have so many questions I hope to get answers to. Because this is the second day since I have finished it and well I have to say it is sticking with me. I give this book 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
October 19, 2018
I really liked this story and really hated the ending! In order to avoid spoilers I will say no more.
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October 7, 2016
Five Star was a captivating sports story that will draw you in from start to finish. I was so shocked by some of the events that happened. The characters were well developed and real. I really enjoyed this entertaining story, and am looking forward to reading more form this author. I recommend this book.
I was given this from Netgalley.
I was given this from Netgalley.
November 10, 2016
I hate when I read a book with amazing reviews (almost all 5 star) and when I finish I just don't get it. I feel like I missed something, or am not as with it as other readers. That was my feelings when I finished this novel. I wanted to like it, and I had hopes that it was be a great read for me along the lines of Jamie McGuire's "Beautiful" series, but possibly even better because it involved college sports, and I'm a sucker for a good inspirational sports story. Unfortunately I didn't connect with either of the main characters, Tank and Amber. I couldn't see what they saw in each other and in fact for large portions of the novel, felt like they DIDN'T like each other. The one character I really enjoyed, Tilly, was only brought in on a few occasions, so he couldn't carry the story on his own. I wish I could have liked it more, but it was just a so-so story for me.
I won this book on goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
I won this book on goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2016
I adored this book read it in one sitting just couldnt put it down,a super read recommended to all
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