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Going Deep #1
Down Deep
Heath football star, gorgeous man candy, and panty-dropper extraordinaire. He was also Camille Pollert’s first crush. But then he humiliated her at a high school football game, confusing her for the waterboy. Now Camille is a football photographer and single mother, and her old crush returns with a vengeance when she sees Heath again. But Heath’s been upfront all along—his future belongs to football and he can’t afford to be distracted by anything else. Will Camille fight for Heath and their future? And will Heath score the biggest win of his life--a love that lasts a lifetime. Get ready to fall hard for the ultimate bad boy turned good. You'll swoon for this steamy series by a New York Times bestselling author!
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2016
467 people are currently reading
638 people want to read
About the author
Virna DePaul
127 books987 followersA former prosecutor, Virna DePaul writes "heat, heart, & HEA" for Harlequin and Random House. She is also a bestselling Indie author, with Bedding The Wrong Brother being a top 100 contemporary romance on Amazon with over 150 5* reviews. www.virnadepaul.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
October 19, 2016
2.5 Stars
I need to start by saying that despite my rating, I did enjoy myself at times while reading this book. I've read other books by this author and liked them so maybe my expectations were a little high.
When I get right down to it, I simply didn't care for either Camille or Heath as characters. She's an awkward mix of emotional badass and wishy washy and the way she'd flip between the two so quickly was jarring. Heath held on to a wee bit more of the jock asshole than I find righteous and when it's all said and done, I found myself detached from both characters.
Is the writing bad? No. In fact the premise of the frenemies, unrequited crush is a favorite of mine. Unfortunately Down Deep just wasn't my cuppa.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I need to start by saying that despite my rating, I did enjoy myself at times while reading this book. I've read other books by this author and liked them so maybe my expectations were a little high.
When I get right down to it, I simply didn't care for either Camille or Heath as characters. She's an awkward mix of emotional badass and wishy washy and the way she'd flip between the two so quickly was jarring. Heath held on to a wee bit more of the jock asshole than I find righteous and when it's all said and done, I found myself detached from both characters.
Is the writing bad? No. In fact the premise of the frenemies, unrequited crush is a favorite of mine. Unfortunately Down Deep just wasn't my cuppa.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
October 31, 2016
***4 "Watergirl!!!" stars***
This was a light, funny and sexy story and i had a great time while i was reading it!!!
It was just what i needed for relaxing and smile!!!
First of all, it was having a handsome and sexy athlete in it and the two protagonists were having a history back in highschool, not in the way you think, but still....
Let me take the things from the beginning....
Camille used to have a crush on the football star Heath Dawson back in school, until one day while she was taking pictures from the game, Heath humiliated her and she decided that her little crush was over....
Ten years later, Camille is a sports photographer, a single mom and she is about to land her dream job as an NFL photographer... but in order to do that, she has to travel and photograph the players and the cheerleaders of "The Savannah Bootleggers".
But there is one problem in that plan... Heath Dawson is one of the players in there and Camille is terrified about this meeting after all these years...
Yes, she is determined to stay away from him, but he is so damn sexy, more than ever...
"Ten years had gone by, yet it had taken her less than twenty-four hours to fall under his spell again."
Heath Dawson is sexy, cocky, a womanizer, but he is an excellent player....
He doesn't need any kind of distractions since he is in the peek of his career, but a gorgeous and curvy woman is stepping in his way and he can stay away from her...
Camille doesn't remind anything from the girl that she used to be back in school and Heath is intrigued by her... He wants her and he always takes what he wants...
"From the moment I saw you yesterday, you’re all I’ve been able to think about. All I want. I want this watergirl who doesn’t want me and I don’t know what I’m going to do about it.”
So what will happen with those two???
They both wants different things from life but they can't seem to stay away from each other....
Will they find a balance between them and work things out or are they doomed from the first moment???
"What was it about this woman that bothered him so much?
He wanted to break her open, discover all of her secrets. Understand his own obsession."
As i told you above, i had such a great time with this book...
In a way, it made my day!!!
Both Camille and Heath were amazing characters and they were fitting really great together...
I also liked very much Camille's daughter... She was so adorable!!!
And i definitely want to read the next book in the series!!!
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
This was a light, funny and sexy story and i had a great time while i was reading it!!!
It was just what i needed for relaxing and smile!!!
First of all, it was having a handsome and sexy athlete in it and the two protagonists were having a history back in highschool, not in the way you think, but still....
Let me take the things from the beginning....
Camille used to have a crush on the football star Heath Dawson back in school, until one day while she was taking pictures from the game, Heath humiliated her and she decided that her little crush was over....
Ten years later, Camille is a sports photographer, a single mom and she is about to land her dream job as an NFL photographer... but in order to do that, she has to travel and photograph the players and the cheerleaders of "The Savannah Bootleggers".
But there is one problem in that plan... Heath Dawson is one of the players in there and Camille is terrified about this meeting after all these years...
Yes, she is determined to stay away from him, but he is so damn sexy, more than ever...
"Ten years had gone by, yet it had taken her less than twenty-four hours to fall under his spell again."
Heath Dawson is sexy, cocky, a womanizer, but he is an excellent player....
He doesn't need any kind of distractions since he is in the peek of his career, but a gorgeous and curvy woman is stepping in his way and he can stay away from her...
Camille doesn't remind anything from the girl that she used to be back in school and Heath is intrigued by her... He wants her and he always takes what he wants...
"From the moment I saw you yesterday, you’re all I’ve been able to think about. All I want. I want this watergirl who doesn’t want me and I don’t know what I’m going to do about it.”
So what will happen with those two???
They both wants different things from life but they can't seem to stay away from each other....
Will they find a balance between them and work things out or are they doomed from the first moment???
"What was it about this woman that bothered him so much?
He wanted to break her open, discover all of her secrets. Understand his own obsession."
As i told you above, i had such a great time with this book...
In a way, it made my day!!!
Both Camille and Heath were amazing characters and they were fitting really great together...
I also liked very much Camille's daughter... She was so adorable!!!
And i definitely want to read the next book in the series!!!
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
November 12, 2016
This is a shorter read and it's okay. If you are looking for a fast read with a guarnteed HEA, this might be up your alley. Check it out.
For me this fast read fell short for many reasons. The main of which is insta love. While the timing may be enough for love, we weren't shown much outside of a few sexually encounters for me to believe in love. And there in lies the other part of my problems with this story. Fictional it maybe, it was not believable for me on many fronts.
And for these reasons I can't give the book a higher rating. I don't think it needed the insta love. I think if they decided to just be in a committed relationship and fix the other things above, it could have been a 4 and maybe even 5 star read.
For me this fast read fell short for many reasons. The main of which is insta love. While the timing may be enough for love, we weren't shown much outside of a few sexually encounters for me to believe in love. And there in lies the other part of my problems with this story. Fictional it maybe, it was not believable for me on many fronts.
And for these reasons I can't give the book a higher rating. I don't think it needed the insta love. I think if they decided to just be in a committed relationship and fix the other things above, it could have been a 4 and maybe even 5 star read.
October 13, 2016
Age Group: Adult
Genre: Sports Romance
Release Date: October 11, 2016
Book Description:
He’s here to score and he always wins.
Heath Dawson: football star, gorgeous man candy, and panty-dropper extraordinaire. He was also Camille Pollert’s first crush. But then he humiliated her at a high school football game, and while she got her revenge, she also closed off her heart.
Ten years later, Camille is a football photographer and single mother, and her old crush returns with a vengeance when she sees Heath again. He’s just as handsome, but now he’s a man. A man she can no longer resist.
Heath hardly recognizes the skinny girl he knew in high school, but he can’t deny the attraction he feels for the curvaceous and beautiful woman Camille has become. He wants her, and he always gets what he wants.
Just as the two of them start to realize they might be perfect for one another, reality rears its ugly head. Can Heath and Camille score a touchdown for their love? Or will they fumble the play and be parted once again?
Excerpt:
“We can’t keep doing this, you know,” she said softly.
Instinctually, he hugged her closer. “You mean having fun with each other?” He didn’t want to be serious right now. He didn’t want to talk about what they were doing or what they shouldn’t be doing. He didn’t want to be a responsible, staid adult like Omar Perkins, who’d lost his chance at football greatness because of a woman and a family. “I think we can keep doing what we’re doing as long as we’re having a good time,” he said. “As long as…as long as we don’t take things too seriously.”
“It isn’t that easy.” Turning, she faced him, and he could just make out her expression in the dim light. “I mean, I’m flattered. You were the hottest guy in school, and now you’re the hottest guy in the NFL but…”
His chest swelled: sure, he knew he was handsome and he’d had his pick of women, but to hear that from Camille Pollert? That took it to an entirely different level. “You think I’m the hottest guy in the NFL? I knew it! Don’t think I won’t be telling Kyle either; the guy needs to be taken down a peg.”
“Oh my God!” She flicked his forehead; he grinned. “Yeah, I’m attracted to you. But we can’t keep doing this. I’m hoping to be offered a job with the NFL, and I can’t jeopardize that by fraternizing with one of their stars. Beyond that, I have a child, one who already idolizes you. You like to have fun. You pretend to be only about fun. But I know that’s not all there is to you. And while we might intend to keep things casual...”
He stared at her, understanding her concerns about her job, but also marveling that his Watergirl saw too much about him that he’d never intended anyone to see. She saw a man who wasn’t just a great football player or a great lover or a great joker. She saw someone who belied that façade he’d perfected over the years, and Jesus Christ, it scared him. Camille had already gotten under his skin enough without her pulling him apart, piece by piece.
He needed to respond to what she’d just said. To agree they should stop seeing each other. But damn if he couldn’t get the words out of his mouth. Looking over her shoulder, he realized with a start that there was a gazebo on her property. Why were they standing in the grass still? He’d been so distracted by playing football with her, kissing her, and talking with her that a bomb could’ve gone off and he wouldn’t have noticed. Taking her hand, he led her to the gazebo, where she sat down next to him. “I care about you, Camille.”
She smiled sadly. “I care about you, too. Maybe too much.”
Snaking his arm around her, he lifted her until she sat on his lap, facing him. Then he kissed her, nipping at her lower lip, wanting her to forget everything but the feeling of being in his arms. He didn’t want her to think about the future, or about responsibilities, or careers, or anything like that. Only this moment, these feelings, this kiss and this night.
“I heard everything you said. I don’t want to interfere with your career or do anything to hurt Kylie. And because I have to concentrate on football, I’m not looking for a committed relationship. But God, I want you, Watergirl. More than I ever thought possible,” he growled against her mouth.
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More links to come!
"A copy of this book has been provided by WordSmith Publicity in exchange for an honest review"
June 20, 2021
This CR had a NFL wide receiver who resided in Georgia
(a 2 hr drive from the h). This seemed more young adult
than actual adult. This story had potential, but...
Heath & Camille were HS seniors when she photographed
Heath + football team for the school yearbook. He mistook
her short-haired tomboy self for the Water boy. 12 yrs on,
they met again @ a NFL team photo op and he called her
"Water girl (just irritating)." Her NFL photographer try-out.
Heath made football & 'no strings' women his mantra, so we
readers doubted H+C could be a couple. Camille had a dtr +
her NFL photographer goal. H+C 'got in on' in a store dress
-ing room & in a gazebo. Did either consider this made them
vulnerable to photo fans or football fans? Did Cam think her
dtr might see a social media photo after the MCs enjoyed
each other? Heath came across as kind + other times a cold
jerk. IMO, both MCs needed to mature before having a
serious relationship.
(a 2 hr drive from the h). This seemed more young adult
than actual adult. This story had potential, but...
Heath & Camille were HS seniors when she photographed
Heath + football team for the school yearbook. He mistook
her short-haired tomboy self for the Water boy. 12 yrs on,
they met again @ a NFL team photo op and he called her
"Water girl (just irritating)." Her NFL photographer try-out.
Heath made football & 'no strings' women his mantra, so we
readers doubted H+C could be a couple. Camille had a dtr +
her NFL photographer goal. H+C 'got in on' in a store dress
-ing room & in a gazebo. Did either consider this made them
vulnerable to photo fans or football fans? Did Cam think her
dtr might see a social media photo after the MCs enjoyed
each other? Heath came across as kind + other times a cold
jerk. IMO, both MCs needed to mature before having a
serious relationship.
April 26, 2021
I am such a sucker for football related sports romances that I can never stop myself from one-clicking. This click was a big disappointment. There wasn't much depth to this story and I wasn't impressed with either of the main characters. Altogether it was pretty much a frivolous but quick read. I won't be continuing with any of the other books in this series.
not-interested
August 15, 2017
Want to read
November 30, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/30/2017)! 💝
November 6, 2016
This is a second chance love story for Heath and Camille, and NFL star Heath Dawson plays to win.
For her, he would "play the hardest game of his life" because she was the "greatest prize." Camille's father was the one that taught Heath that. He also taught Heath that "you don't learn anything if you don't have to try."
Heath is living his dream and Camille is about to get hers when they see each other after ten years. Once again the Watergirl reminds the jock that he can "do better." This time will his best be good enough?
For her, he would "play the hardest game of his life" because she was the "greatest prize." Camille's father was the one that taught Heath that. He also taught Heath that "you don't learn anything if you don't have to try."
Heath is living his dream and Camille is about to get hers when they see each other after ten years. Once again the Watergirl reminds the jock that he can "do better." This time will his best be good enough?
December 6, 2018
This was a comfortable contemporary love story about two people who share a past but want a future.
November 7, 2016
4.5 stars for a highly enjoyable sports romance from DePaul, my first novel of hers. This is a second chance sports romance, featuring sexy NFL star Heath Dawson and aspiring NFL photographer Camille Pollert. Both met pre-high school, where Camille's dad was Heath's kiddy league coach. And while Heath never seemed to notice Camille, she was besotted by him - until a game towards the end of their high school years had Heath make some throwaway comments that hurt her badly. Fast forward 10 years to where Camille is divorced, with a seven year old daughter, and is invited to shoot some photographs of the Savannah Bootleggers, where their paths cross again, as he is their star player. Their chemistry is undeniable and what follows is a light hearted, but warming, tale of two people determined to focus on their careers and not relationships or love. But sometimes in life, you just have to prioritise what you really want from it. I loved this book, it had great pacing, not too much sporting information that I was baffled or turned off, and I was willing the couple to open their eyes and see the connection they had. A few chuckles, a few tears - pretty much everything I look for in a romance novel (not to mention some steamy erotic scenes). The only reason I deducted half a star was it ended too abruptly for my liking - I'd have loved a bit more after the finale DePaul gave us, maybe a chapter or two of what happened next, or at least a decent epilogue set a few years in advance - I don't need everything wrapped in a neat bow, but there was some unanswered questions I'd really have loved to have been laid out for me. That said, I'd happily read more of DePaul's work based on this example.
**I received an ARC from FFSG in exchange for my honest and unbiased feedback**
**I received an ARC from FFSG in exchange for my honest and unbiased feedback**
November 23, 2016
This was a fun quick read. At first Heath was a total jerk, typical stereotype of #1 high school athlete that didn't give a second glance at someone crushing so hard on him because she wasn't "popular" and then he actually humiliated her one day by calling her a "waterboy," but I had to laugh when I read about the plan of revenge that Camille was plotting...it was great! Now fast forward ten years and Heath is a star NFL player and Camille, a single mother of a 7 year old daughter, is trying to make her way into the career she always wanted, to be an NFL photographer. It was pretty funny when Heath realizes that "Watergirl" is the new photographer for his team charity calendar, they hadn't seen one another for ten years and they both have changed a lot since then...and apparently he liked the changes in Camille ;)
I enjoyed the two of them together but I wasn't feeling the intense chemistry you would normally find with an insta-love but then again maybe it wasn't so instant, Camille was infatuated with him in High School and Heath does admit that he had feelings for her as well. Either way, this was an enjoyable read with likeable characters and it was a good start to a new series by a talented author, I look forward to Kyle's story next in Royally Deep.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book given to me by the author, this is a completely honest and non-incentivized review**
I enjoyed the two of them together but I wasn't feeling the intense chemistry you would normally find with an insta-love but then again maybe it wasn't so instant, Camille was infatuated with him in High School and Heath does admit that he had feelings for her as well. Either way, this was an enjoyable read with likeable characters and it was a good start to a new series by a talented author, I look forward to Kyle's story next in Royally Deep.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book given to me by the author, this is a completely honest and non-incentivized review**
October 8, 2016
I received a free copy from net galley for an honest review.
This was a fantastic book and I absolutely loved it.
Heath humiliated Camille in high school but she got him back. Ten years have past: Camille is a single mum and has recently received a job being a football photographer. She's all too aware that her job will bring her in close proximity to Heath.
Will he recognise her?
Will her hidden desires resurface when she sees him?
I liked Heath: he's sexy, cocky and goes after what he wants. Their first kiss literally gave me goosebumps: it was intense yet passionate and breathtaking - I'm surprised she could stand after their steamy kiss lol.
Camille is wary about letting herself go and just having fun - can't say I blame her. I liked her: she was real and down to earth. She keeps Heath on his toes and makes him work for it.
Camille and Heath had amazing chemistry: it was sexy and hot. When these two come together: the intensity and depth of their feelings were portrayed by their actions beautifully.
I loved how the book included both of their POVs: it was insightful and allowed the reader to connect to the characters.
I absolutely loved Camille and Heath's story: it was beautiful. The author did an amazing job capturing their depth of their emotions. I'm definitely adding this author to my favourite list. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
This was a fantastic book and I absolutely loved it.
Heath humiliated Camille in high school but she got him back. Ten years have past: Camille is a single mum and has recently received a job being a football photographer. She's all too aware that her job will bring her in close proximity to Heath.
Will he recognise her?
Will her hidden desires resurface when she sees him?
I liked Heath: he's sexy, cocky and goes after what he wants. Their first kiss literally gave me goosebumps: it was intense yet passionate and breathtaking - I'm surprised she could stand after their steamy kiss lol.
Camille is wary about letting herself go and just having fun - can't say I blame her. I liked her: she was real and down to earth. She keeps Heath on his toes and makes him work for it.
Camille and Heath had amazing chemistry: it was sexy and hot. When these two come together: the intensity and depth of their feelings were portrayed by their actions beautifully.
I loved how the book included both of their POVs: it was insightful and allowed the reader to connect to the characters.
I absolutely loved Camille and Heath's story: it was beautiful. The author did an amazing job capturing their depth of their emotions. I'm definitely adding this author to my favourite list. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.
November 15, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by this author and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
This is a second chance sports romance starring the sexy NFL star Heath Dawson and aspiring NFL photographer Camille Pollert. They met as kids while Camille's dad was Heath's little league football coach. Fast forward to high-school, Camille has a giant crush on Heath but of course he doesn't know she even exist. He finally talks to her during a football game, but mistakenly thinks she's the waterboy until she turns around.
Ten years later Camille is hired to shot a charity NFL calendar for Heath's team, Heath instantly recognizes her and is totally attracted to Camille. The chemistry between these two is totally off the charts, but as always sometimes careers and stubbornness can get in the way of true love. So sit back and enjoy this light-hearted sports romance.
This was my first book by this author and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
This is a second chance sports romance starring the sexy NFL star Heath Dawson and aspiring NFL photographer Camille Pollert. They met as kids while Camille's dad was Heath's little league football coach. Fast forward to high-school, Camille has a giant crush on Heath but of course he doesn't know she even exist. He finally talks to her during a football game, but mistakenly thinks she's the waterboy until she turns around.
Ten years later Camille is hired to shot a charity NFL calendar for Heath's team, Heath instantly recognizes her and is totally attracted to Camille. The chemistry between these two is totally off the charts, but as always sometimes careers and stubbornness can get in the way of true love. So sit back and enjoy this light-hearted sports romance.
October 3, 2016
Remember that jock from high school that everybody loved but had no idea you even existed? Yeah, well eventually he grows up and hopefully matures into a fine outstanding man. Heath was that guy to Camille, he had a tough upbringing with the world on his shoulders but now he's changed for the better. Having a poor history with athletes Camille has sworn them off until she has to work for the NFL taking photos of a team, Heath's team. Ten years after high school these two are combustible on the pages. Add in an 8 year old little girl and a pirate tea party DePaul had me in stitches, this little girl stole many scenes. These characters come off the pages easily with fun sexually charged texts and banter along with warm fuzzies from their shared history. My copy was given by the author for my honest review.
August 29, 2019
I really enjoyed this light easy read..Nothing heavy. Yes there was insta -love but somehow that was ok. It just worked. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
November 17, 2016
Down Deep
Virna DePaul
Goodreads review
3 stars.
The blurb of this book had me pretty much hooked, the storyline is what I normally enjoy and the heat and steam was pretty damn hot so it was a pleasant reasonably quick read.
While in high school Camille Pollert was all stringy height, short boy haircut and non attractive clothes, but she secretly held a crush over football player Heath Dawson and after lusting over him for so long, her world was blown apart when he called her out on the field in front of his father and team, humiliating her to no end.
Heath is god on the football field and has no issues with women either. Both go hand in hand... Choosing to never be tied down while working his way through the NFL and into the big league is his priority. Football 1st, wom3n close second.
10yrs on Camille is hired to take photographs of the Bootleggers and their cheerleaders. Knowing this particular job will put her upfront and centre with Heath, leaves her nervous and back towards the man/boy whom destroyed her so many years ago. Camille has changed massively now though, she has curves, long gorgeous hair and a child. Mr Dawson is about to meet his match when he discovers the photographer is his watergirl. It isn’t long until sparks fly and passed feelings are rekindled. One bet, one win and one orgasm will have their worlds intertwined again. This time for good.
As much as Camille wants to give into Heath, knowing his womanizer ways will only break hers and her daughter’s , Emma world. No longer a child, she can no longer think of sex, her priorities have changed. A new job offer will break the very early existence of this non relationship. Pushing Heath away, and pulling him back is like a never ending yoyo.
For Heath, he knows that taking Camille again will no doubt ruin his career, one he has worked towards his whole life. But with that decision comes the never ending questions of what will he miss. He adores her now, loves her daughter, Emma and looks forward to their time together. With a father and coach constant pushing, Heath stupidly pushes away the best thing for him. But with that push, will he lose forever the woman who captured his attention on the field and in the graduation magazine so many years ago or will his grandfather and team mate get him to realise what he is throwing away before it is to late?
Virna DePaul
Goodreads review
3 stars.
The blurb of this book had me pretty much hooked, the storyline is what I normally enjoy and the heat and steam was pretty damn hot so it was a pleasant reasonably quick read.
While in high school Camille Pollert was all stringy height, short boy haircut and non attractive clothes, but she secretly held a crush over football player Heath Dawson and after lusting over him for so long, her world was blown apart when he called her out on the field in front of his father and team, humiliating her to no end.
Heath is god on the football field and has no issues with women either. Both go hand in hand... Choosing to never be tied down while working his way through the NFL and into the big league is his priority. Football 1st, wom3n close second.
10yrs on Camille is hired to take photographs of the Bootleggers and their cheerleaders. Knowing this particular job will put her upfront and centre with Heath, leaves her nervous and back towards the man/boy whom destroyed her so many years ago. Camille has changed massively now though, she has curves, long gorgeous hair and a child. Mr Dawson is about to meet his match when he discovers the photographer is his watergirl. It isn’t long until sparks fly and passed feelings are rekindled. One bet, one win and one orgasm will have their worlds intertwined again. This time for good.
As much as Camille wants to give into Heath, knowing his womanizer ways will only break hers and her daughter’s , Emma world. No longer a child, she can no longer think of sex, her priorities have changed. A new job offer will break the very early existence of this non relationship. Pushing Heath away, and pulling him back is like a never ending yoyo.
For Heath, he knows that taking Camille again will no doubt ruin his career, one he has worked towards his whole life. But with that decision comes the never ending questions of what will he miss. He adores her now, loves her daughter, Emma and looks forward to their time together. With a father and coach constant pushing, Heath stupidly pushes away the best thing for him. But with that push, will he lose forever the woman who captured his attention on the field and in the graduation magazine so many years ago or will his grandfather and team mate get him to realise what he is throwing away before it is to late?
January 14, 2017
Title: Down Deep
Series: Going Deep Book #1
Author: Virna DePaul
Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Sports Romance
Blurb: He’s here to score and he always wins.
Heath Dawson: football star, gorgeous man candy, and panty-dropper extraordinaire. He was also Camille Pollert’s first crush. But then he humiliated her at a high school football game, and while she got her revenge, she also closed off her heart.
Ten years later, Camille is a football photographer and single mother, and her old crush returns with a vengeance when she sees Heath again. He’s just as handsome, but now he’s a man. A man she can no longer resist.
Heath hardly recognizes the skinny girl he knew in high school, but he can’t deny the attraction he feels for the curvaceous and beautiful woman Camille has become. He wants her, and he always gets what he wants.
Just as the two of them start to realize they might be perfect for one another, reality rears its ugly head. Can Heath and Camille score a touchdown for their love? Or will they fumble the play and be parted once again?
Thoughts:
“This isn’t a game to me. But whatever it is, I’m gonna win it, just the same. And so are you.”
If you’re looking for an amazing sports themed romance, then look no further! If you are a fan of Jaci Burton or Toni Aleo then Deep Down is absolutely perfect for you!
I always enjoy a well done sports-themed romance – and this had a little bit of that ‘old teenage crush who the main heroine never really got over’ mixed in, which just added to the appeal. The sparks between the two was obvious and well written and I loved the sexy, witty banter. I hadn’t read anything by this author before, but I was definitely pleasantly surprised and speed through this book fairly quickly because I just couldn’t put it down. I’m also a sucker for a really well done HEA, and this fit the bill.
All in all, you can’t go wrong with this one!
Rate: A
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: Going Deep Book #1
Author: Virna DePaul
Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Sports Romance
Blurb: He’s here to score and he always wins.
Heath Dawson: football star, gorgeous man candy, and panty-dropper extraordinaire. He was also Camille Pollert’s first crush. But then he humiliated her at a high school football game, and while she got her revenge, she also closed off her heart.
Ten years later, Camille is a football photographer and single mother, and her old crush returns with a vengeance when she sees Heath again. He’s just as handsome, but now he’s a man. A man she can no longer resist.
Heath hardly recognizes the skinny girl he knew in high school, but he can’t deny the attraction he feels for the curvaceous and beautiful woman Camille has become. He wants her, and he always gets what he wants.
Just as the two of them start to realize they might be perfect for one another, reality rears its ugly head. Can Heath and Camille score a touchdown for their love? Or will they fumble the play and be parted once again?
Thoughts:
“This isn’t a game to me. But whatever it is, I’m gonna win it, just the same. And so are you.”
If you’re looking for an amazing sports themed romance, then look no further! If you are a fan of Jaci Burton or Toni Aleo then Deep Down is absolutely perfect for you!
I always enjoy a well done sports-themed romance – and this had a little bit of that ‘old teenage crush who the main heroine never really got over’ mixed in, which just added to the appeal. The sparks between the two was obvious and well written and I loved the sexy, witty banter. I hadn’t read anything by this author before, but I was definitely pleasantly surprised and speed through this book fairly quickly because I just couldn’t put it down. I’m also a sucker for a really well done HEA, and this fit the bill.
All in all, you can’t go wrong with this one!
Rate: A
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
October 17, 2016
After being embarrassed back in high school by the star football player who Camille had a huge crush on for forever, she hasn’t forgotten the hurtful things that Heath had said to her and now she will be seeing him again ten years later. Heath is now a star NFL player and Camille is divorced with a daughter and has become a photographer who will be taking pictures of the team that Heath plays for. So all the questions start for Camille as to if he will remember her, if he’ll remember what he said to her that hurt her so badly, and will he remember the picture that she ended up putting in their school yearbook all those years ago to get back at him.
Heath can’t be bogged down with a serious relationship because he has seen what that has down to some of his teammate’s careers but his “water girl” is oh so tempting. Camille is definitely not that skinny looking tomboy from back in high school. She is now filled out, with long hair and has become a great professional photographer. Is Camille ready to forgive Heath for comments he made years ago and even then is she willing to risk the job opportunity she may have with the NFL as one of their photographers? Both Heath and Camille have a lot at stake but watching them go through the feelings that they have for each other makes this book a great sports read. You won’t be disappointed.
This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Heath can’t be bogged down with a serious relationship because he has seen what that has down to some of his teammate’s careers but his “water girl” is oh so tempting. Camille is definitely not that skinny looking tomboy from back in high school. She is now filled out, with long hair and has become a great professional photographer. Is Camille ready to forgive Heath for comments he made years ago and even then is she willing to risk the job opportunity she may have with the NFL as one of their photographers? Both Heath and Camille have a lot at stake but watching them go through the feelings that they have for each other makes this book a great sports read. You won’t be disappointed.
This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
November 20, 2016
From a young age Heath Dawson had it drilled into him he will only amount to anything if he has football in his life. He loved baseball and Coach Pollart's when he was little but his dad told him football was his everything. You know when you are young you hang on every word .... like you should .... of what your parents tell you, but when you grow up some other things try to get in the way .... sometimes they are the BEST things one world .... LOVE AND HAPPINESS.
The only thing Camille Pollart ever wanted to be was a sports photographer. When a certain football player on high school tried to give her some advice one night it turned her world upside down. But Camille never let go of her dreams even during college when she meets her hockey husband (ex) and have a bright daughter she never let her dream go.
But when she meets that one football player again can she let him push his way into her life and maybe looks her dream. Heath can't get Camille out of his mind after seeing her after all those years and we all know girls have that little thing in the back of there heart called strings that pull on them when they know things should be they always wanted them. To be with your first love !
Can Heath and Camille get over all of the past memories that seem to shadow over them or will on little whistle mean the world to them !
LOVED the pulls and pushes of this story !! The HEART know what the HEART wants !!
The only thing Camille Pollart ever wanted to be was a sports photographer. When a certain football player on high school tried to give her some advice one night it turned her world upside down. But Camille never let go of her dreams even during college when she meets her hockey husband (ex) and have a bright daughter she never let her dream go.
But when she meets that one football player again can she let him push his way into her life and maybe looks her dream. Heath can't get Camille out of his mind after seeing her after all those years and we all know girls have that little thing in the back of there heart called strings that pull on them when they know things should be they always wanted them. To be with your first love !
Can Heath and Camille get over all of the past memories that seem to shadow over them or will on little whistle mean the world to them !
LOVED the pulls and pushes of this story !! The HEART know what the HEART wants !!
November 10, 2016
Deep Down is the first book from this author. The story is a sport's romance which i enjoy reading. The story does not disappoint is a page turner so much so that you want to find out what happens so you don't want to put it down til you get to the end of the book. Camille got a second chance at romance with he teenage crush from high school. Heath humiliated Camille so she gets her own back by revenge by publishing a funny photo in the school year book. Heath went from high school quarter back to playing in the NFL plus being one of there top players. He don't get on with his mum and dad but he loves his grandfather. Camille is a single mother of a little girl who also a big fan of Heath's. Camille is a freelance photographer and who has been employed to take some photo's of the NFL players and cheerleaders. She's not the shy girl he knew in highschool. If you want to find out what happens read the book you won't be disappointed. This is a good read and differently hope to read other books from this author in the future and would highly recommend this to others to read it if they are looking for a good book to read.
October 31, 2016
3.5 Stars
Down Deep is an entertaining read with a second chance trope. Heath Dawson was Camille Pollert’s first crush in high school, but he never seemed to know she existed and humiliated her. Fast forward ten years, Camille is a single mother and a professional sport photographer. She is hired by Heath’s team for a series of photo shoots. Heath is now a famous football star at the top of his game, dedicated to his career, but a ladies man all the same. He hasn’t forgotten Camille and wants to apologize, he regrets hurting her.
Heath is still a cocky player, but he finds Camille adorable and can’t stay away from her. Their interactions were so much fun, with a lot of push and pull. They are both scared, for different reasons.
This story was sweet and heartwarming. It was enjoyable, but I felt that it lacked depth, mainly in the character development. Overall, this was a light and easy read and made for a perfect book with which to relax.
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.
Down Deep is an entertaining read with a second chance trope. Heath Dawson was Camille Pollert’s first crush in high school, but he never seemed to know she existed and humiliated her. Fast forward ten years, Camille is a single mother and a professional sport photographer. She is hired by Heath’s team for a series of photo shoots. Heath is now a famous football star at the top of his game, dedicated to his career, but a ladies man all the same. He hasn’t forgotten Camille and wants to apologize, he regrets hurting her.
Heath is still a cocky player, but he finds Camille adorable and can’t stay away from her. Their interactions were so much fun, with a lot of push and pull. They are both scared, for different reasons.
This story was sweet and heartwarming. It was enjoyable, but I felt that it lacked depth, mainly in the character development. Overall, this was a light and easy read and made for a perfect book with which to relax.
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.
October 10, 2016
This is the first book in a new football romance series by Virna DePaul. While it is a football themed romance, it does not spend a lot of time actually on the field. It's more about what happens off the field. Camille had a crush on the star football player in high school but now that she's an adult she realizes that is a fantasy that she has totally outgrown. However, when a new photography assignment puts her in close proximity to Heath, she realizes that just maybe she hasn't gotten over her crush. This was a fun second chance romance even though technically there was never a first chance romance. Great for a quick afternoon read.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2016
I'm thinking there are things in Heath's life, that he doesn't mind underachieving:
“I’ll teach all of our daughters how to play catch and stop bad football players from hurting their feelings.”
Her eyes widened. “How many daughters are we going to have?”
“Well, I thought five would give us a nice football team.”
“Five!”
“Don’t worry, I’ll make it worth your while.” He stroked her waist; she hummed, trying not to laugh at him.
I liked Heath he was persistent and Camille put him in his place.
“I’ll teach all of our daughters how to play catch and stop bad football players from hurting their feelings.”
Her eyes widened. “How many daughters are we going to have?”
“Well, I thought five would give us a nice football team.”
“Five!”
“Don’t worry, I’ll make it worth your while.” He stroked her waist; she hummed, trying not to laugh at him.
I liked Heath he was persistent and Camille put him in his place.
February 22, 2017
review originally posted on http://www.joyfullyreviewed.net/revie...
October 12, 2016
Loved it! One of my favorite sports romances of the year. Can't wait for the next Going Deep book.
June 1, 2017
Camille Pollert had a serious crush on Heath Dawson who was on the football team in High School only he never noticed her. When Camille is offered the chance to take pictures of the game she is excited because it gives her a chance to see him and take pictures of him that maybe she can keep for herself. When Heath humiliates her and calls her a “waterboy” causing his father does the same, Camille swears she is over her crush and seeks revenge. Now 10 years later she is hoping for a job in the NFL but her first assignment is to take team pictures for the team that Heath is on, but seeing him again brings back old feelings she thought she buried years ago.
Heath Dawson isn’t just a talented player in the league but also one of the best looking. Women flock to him, but when the photographer that is hired gives him the cold shoulder he is even more intrigued, especially when he comes to find out it happens to be Camille who he hasn’t seen since high school. She is no longer the awkward looking girl she once was, she is beautiful and has filled out nicely. Heath knows he wants her under him or over him, hell it doesn’t matter but she isn’t giving him the time of day. Now Heath is looking for a second chance with Camille; only he has to have a first chance to have a second but when his game starts to suffer he might have to beg for a third. Only Camille isn’t going to make it easy this time and just when he’s found her he might lose her in the end.
Down Deep was a funny and sexy read that I enjoyed, but I did have some issues with the characters; while I found them likeable and thought they had great heat between them I didn’t really see them as couple. I felt as if they were more like sex buddies. Heath I found too cocky for his own good at times and he treated Camille as if she was a yo-yo which I started to find on the annoying side. Camille took what he gave and couldn’t stay away from him. One minute she only wants sex with him and is hurt when she is treated that way then the next she wanted more. She was a little to wishy washy for my liking.
For a sports romance Deep Down didn’t have a lot of football scenes which I missed. I thought the pacing was great and the writing was flawless. The ending was a little abrupt for my taste but overall Down Deep was just an okay read for me. Will I read more of Virna. DePaul’s work? Yes, and honestly I hope this becomes a series in the long run.
Heath Dawson isn’t just a talented player in the league but also one of the best looking. Women flock to him, but when the photographer that is hired gives him the cold shoulder he is even more intrigued, especially when he comes to find out it happens to be Camille who he hasn’t seen since high school. She is no longer the awkward looking girl she once was, she is beautiful and has filled out nicely. Heath knows he wants her under him or over him, hell it doesn’t matter but she isn’t giving him the time of day. Now Heath is looking for a second chance with Camille; only he has to have a first chance to have a second but when his game starts to suffer he might have to beg for a third. Only Camille isn’t going to make it easy this time and just when he’s found her he might lose her in the end.
Down Deep was a funny and sexy read that I enjoyed, but I did have some issues with the characters; while I found them likeable and thought they had great heat between them I didn’t really see them as couple. I felt as if they were more like sex buddies. Heath I found too cocky for his own good at times and he treated Camille as if she was a yo-yo which I started to find on the annoying side. Camille took what he gave and couldn’t stay away from him. One minute she only wants sex with him and is hurt when she is treated that way then the next she wanted more. She was a little to wishy washy for my liking.
For a sports romance Deep Down didn’t have a lot of football scenes which I missed. I thought the pacing was great and the writing was flawless. The ending was a little abrupt for my taste but overall Down Deep was just an okay read for me. Will I read more of Virna. DePaul’s work? Yes, and honestly I hope this becomes a series in the long run.
November 8, 2020
The Going Deep Series by Virna DePaul tells the stories of 4 professional football players from the Savannah Bootleggers football team, and each can be read as a standalone novel.
Down Deep is the first story of the series and tells the tale of Heath and Camille, who meet ten years after a humiliating incident in high school when Heath (a star football player) and his father mistake Camille for a boy and humiliate her. Heath is now a star NFL player when he runs into Camille (a single mom) a professional photographer trying to land a permanent position with his team. Camille’s father used to coach Heath when he was a young boy and he idolized her father and never forgot the impact he had on his life. Camille is still trying to recover from the loss of her father, who was both mother and father to her when she was growing up following her mother’s death. This story had it all, really, really hot scenes between the two of them, the pain of overcoming very difficult childhoods and the resulting emotional scars, the one man who gave them both wonderful memories, very funny scenes of the players at a child’s birthday party, and Heath and Camille’s struggle to overcome their collective obstacles and allow love to grow and heal each other. It was wonderful!
The four books in this series are among my favorites. As talented as Ms. DePaul is in really knowing how to heat up a room and steam the windows, she is equally facile at showing true and abiding love, heart-felt emotions, situations so funny that your belly hurts from laughing, and relationships so complex that no one escapes without deep, emotional wounds! The series is the total package – not too much technical football information, or subjects so depressing you can’t find your way out. It has just the right mix of sex, banter, attraction, chemistry, sex (did I already mention that), love and angst to keep you reading late into the night!
Down Deep is the first story of the series and tells the tale of Heath and Camille, who meet ten years after a humiliating incident in high school when Heath (a star football player) and his father mistake Camille for a boy and humiliate her. Heath is now a star NFL player when he runs into Camille (a single mom) a professional photographer trying to land a permanent position with his team. Camille’s father used to coach Heath when he was a young boy and he idolized her father and never forgot the impact he had on his life. Camille is still trying to recover from the loss of her father, who was both mother and father to her when she was growing up following her mother’s death. This story had it all, really, really hot scenes between the two of them, the pain of overcoming very difficult childhoods and the resulting emotional scars, the one man who gave them both wonderful memories, very funny scenes of the players at a child’s birthday party, and Heath and Camille’s struggle to overcome their collective obstacles and allow love to grow and heal each other. It was wonderful!
The four books in this series are among my favorites. As talented as Ms. DePaul is in really knowing how to heat up a room and steam the windows, she is equally facile at showing true and abiding love, heart-felt emotions, situations so funny that your belly hurts from laughing, and relationships so complex that no one escapes without deep, emotional wounds! The series is the total package – not too much technical football information, or subjects so depressing you can’t find your way out. It has just the right mix of sex, banter, attraction, chemistry, sex (did I already mention that), love and angst to keep you reading late into the night!
January 28, 2018
Loved it
Camille is a photographer, divorced with a little girl. She is trying for a photography position with the NFL. The team she is shooting is the one with Heath Dawson. She had a huge crush on him in high school and he embarrassed her by mistaken her for a waterboy. So she got him back and put an embarrassing photo of him in the yearbook.
Heath is an awesome football player and it's the only thing important in his life. When he figures out who Camille is, he can't get her out of his head. They start dating secretly until it starts messing with his game and he breaks it off. But he still can't stop thinking about her and wants her to give them another chance but she doesn't want the heartache again when he decides to break up with her again.
Camille realizes she loves him and goes after what she wants, Heath. Can they be together and still have their dream jobs?
Awesome story. Football, sex, and a little comedy. I read this book within a couple of hours. DePaul's books leave you wanting more. This is the first in the series and the second one sounds just as good as this one was.
Camille is a photographer, divorced with a little girl. She is trying for a photography position with the NFL. The team she is shooting is the one with Heath Dawson. She had a huge crush on him in high school and he embarrassed her by mistaken her for a waterboy. So she got him back and put an embarrassing photo of him in the yearbook.
Heath is an awesome football player and it's the only thing important in his life. When he figures out who Camille is, he can't get her out of his head. They start dating secretly until it starts messing with his game and he breaks it off. But he still can't stop thinking about her and wants her to give them another chance but she doesn't want the heartache again when he decides to break up with her again.
Camille realizes she loves him and goes after what she wants, Heath. Can they be together and still have their dream jobs?
Awesome story. Football, sex, and a little comedy. I read this book within a couple of hours. DePaul's books leave you wanting more. This is the first in the series and the second one sounds just as good as this one was.
February 8, 2021
Mainly surface I need more depth
I liked that he realized it wasn't his dream. I like his grandfather and Emma, but with only one real interaction a piece it was hard to fall in love. I didn't particularly care for Camille. She was kind of bland as dishwater. She let loose once but other than that her job was to say no. And she wasn't very good at her job because I would have shut him down so hard he'd have to be rebooted. He's a jerk for most of the book and pretty only gets you so far. He wasn't her friend he was her fb. A friend actually takes the time to get to know you and respects boundaries. He was selfish and when she finally listened to the voice telling her they were better off apart, the author calls her a coward. My husband knows me better than anyone in the world and sometimes that includes myself. Not saying he can't be a jerk or never hurts me, but he put in the work. Heath just says a couple of pretty things.
I liked that he realized it wasn't his dream. I like his grandfather and Emma, but with only one real interaction a piece it was hard to fall in love. I didn't particularly care for Camille. She was kind of bland as dishwater. She let loose once but other than that her job was to say no. And she wasn't very good at her job because I would have shut him down so hard he'd have to be rebooted. He's a jerk for most of the book and pretty only gets you so far. He wasn't her friend he was her fb. A friend actually takes the time to get to know you and respects boundaries. He was selfish and when she finally listened to the voice telling her they were better off apart, the author calls her a coward. My husband knows me better than anyone in the world and sometimes that includes myself. Not saying he can't be a jerk or never hurts me, but he put in the work. Heath just says a couple of pretty things.
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