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Breaking Cage
There is speculation that he killed a girl . . .
Journalist Hannah Black has just been given the assignment of a Get the exclusive story from the Chicago Bears' new starting quarterback, Derek Cage. There's only one problem--Derek refuses to talk to reporters. The son of a famed Illinois senator, this football star despises the media.
Hannah has never been one to follow orders, especially when she wants something. When her new assignment tries to give her the brush off, Hannah won't take no for an answer, going to extremes to get the attention of this superstar athlete.
Drawn to her quirky questions and die-hard persistence, Derek begins opening up to this rookie reporter, and he can't stay away no matter how hard he tries.
As the two get closer, Hannah finds herself falling for the enigmatic quarterback. But nothing's ever easy. As a decade old secret comes to light, Hannah has to decide how far she'll go and how many lines she's willing to cross to keep Derek safe.
Is uncovering the truth worth the risk of losing it all?
Journalist Hannah Black has just been given the assignment of a Get the exclusive story from the Chicago Bears' new starting quarterback, Derek Cage. There's only one problem--Derek refuses to talk to reporters. The son of a famed Illinois senator, this football star despises the media.
Hannah has never been one to follow orders, especially when she wants something. When her new assignment tries to give her the brush off, Hannah won't take no for an answer, going to extremes to get the attention of this superstar athlete.
Drawn to her quirky questions and die-hard persistence, Derek begins opening up to this rookie reporter, and he can't stay away no matter how hard he tries.
As the two get closer, Hannah finds herself falling for the enigmatic quarterback. But nothing's ever easy. As a decade old secret comes to light, Hannah has to decide how far she'll go and how many lines she's willing to cross to keep Derek safe.
Is uncovering the truth worth the risk of losing it all?
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2016
8 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 25, 2016
This was a surprisingly fantastic book! I wasn't sure what to expect as I haven't read anything from this author before. But as introductions go, this was a hell of a hello. It read like contemporary mixed with romantic suspense. It was part sports romance and part whodunit and quite enjoyable.
There was an interesting plot. It centered around the mystery that was Derek Cage. He was an NFL starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears and the son of a presidential candidate. His family owned the city but their lives were built on secrets and lies. And Hannah Black was bound and determined to get Derek to talk. What these two didn't count on was falling in love.
The story kept moving so there were no dry moments. The character development was done well enough that I couldn't help but like both Derek and Hannah. The chemistry, although not explicit, was still incredibly hot. And that book cover??? Sexy AF. The only big issue I had was that the elements of suspense could have been a bit stronger. I didn't really feel the danger or the fear.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a little mystery with their romance!
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review
There was an interesting plot. It centered around the mystery that was Derek Cage. He was an NFL starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears and the son of a presidential candidate. His family owned the city but their lives were built on secrets and lies. And Hannah Black was bound and determined to get Derek to talk. What these two didn't count on was falling in love.
The story kept moving so there were no dry moments. The character development was done well enough that I couldn't help but like both Derek and Hannah. The chemistry, although not explicit, was still incredibly hot. And that book cover??? Sexy AF. The only big issue I had was that the elements of suspense could have been a bit stronger. I didn't really feel the danger or the fear.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a little mystery with their romance!
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review
October 24, 2016
4.5 Breaking Stars
Breaking Cage is a standalone and is written by the wonderful A.J. Pryor. First off, cover love right? I simply want to devour this book based on the cover alone. Yum!
Breaking Cage is a sports theme book and to my surprise is a little suspenseful and that’s completely my cuppa.
Hannah is a reporter, but she’s a newbie. She wants to hit it big and write stories that interests her, but she only gets a job as a sports journalist because she lies and says she knows everything there was to know about sports. I really loved that. I found it super cute that Hannah tries hard to learn about football and acts like she knows what she is talking about. She doesn’t act dumb, it’s just cute watching her struggle at times.
Derek is the star football player and he doesn’t do interviews and when he does he gives everyone a hard time. He also has a nick name called Rage because of his temper. I loved Derek. I found him so complicated and tortured. Something happened in his past which has shaped him to be the man he is today.
Hannah wants Derek’s story. The twist of the book, okay not really twist, but what I really liked was that Derek knows that! Yes, Derek knows Hannah wants his story and Hannah knows that Derek knows. I found this storyline so refreshing. It’s not like Hannah harbors a secret throughout the book. So the banter between the two main people is really interesting to read and very addicting.
As the story continues you start to understand what has happened in Derek’s past and you question who is good for Derek, people wise. At the same time someone doesn’t want Hannah to discover the past and will do anything to stop her.
There is some tension between Derek and Hannah, but like I said, I like how they interact. Hannah wants to be known as a good reporter and doesn’t want to start anything with Derek. Derek is super attracted to her, but doesn’t want to put her in the spotlight either, because nothing good could come of that. But while all of this is going down, there’s suspense! Who is after Hannah and what happened to Derek in the past?
Overall, Breaking Cage was a delightful and suspenseful read. It kept me on my toes the whole time and I never knew what was going to happen. I love the mature and witty banter between Derek and Hannah. A.J. Pryor knows exactly how to write a fresh and well-rounded read.
AN ARC was provided
AMAZON
Breaking Cage is a standalone and is written by the wonderful A.J. Pryor. First off, cover love right? I simply want to devour this book based on the cover alone. Yum!
Breaking Cage is a sports theme book and to my surprise is a little suspenseful and that’s completely my cuppa.
Hannah is a reporter, but she’s a newbie. She wants to hit it big and write stories that interests her, but she only gets a job as a sports journalist because she lies and says she knows everything there was to know about sports. I really loved that. I found it super cute that Hannah tries hard to learn about football and acts like she knows what she is talking about. She doesn’t act dumb, it’s just cute watching her struggle at times.
Derek is the star football player and he doesn’t do interviews and when he does he gives everyone a hard time. He also has a nick name called Rage because of his temper. I loved Derek. I found him so complicated and tortured. Something happened in his past which has shaped him to be the man he is today.
Hannah wants Derek’s story. The twist of the book, okay not really twist, but what I really liked was that Derek knows that! Yes, Derek knows Hannah wants his story and Hannah knows that Derek knows. I found this storyline so refreshing. It’s not like Hannah harbors a secret throughout the book. So the banter between the two main people is really interesting to read and very addicting.
As the story continues you start to understand what has happened in Derek’s past and you question who is good for Derek, people wise. At the same time someone doesn’t want Hannah to discover the past and will do anything to stop her.
There is some tension between Derek and Hannah, but like I said, I like how they interact. Hannah wants to be known as a good reporter and doesn’t want to start anything with Derek. Derek is super attracted to her, but doesn’t want to put her in the spotlight either, because nothing good could come of that. But while all of this is going down, there’s suspense! Who is after Hannah and what happened to Derek in the past?
Overall, Breaking Cage was a delightful and suspenseful read. It kept me on my toes the whole time and I never knew what was going to happen. I love the mature and witty banter between Derek and Hannah. A.J. Pryor knows exactly how to write a fresh and well-rounded read.
AN ARC was provided
AMAZON
November 16, 2016
You know how sometimes when you have finished a book and you want to tell everyone you know to go out and get it? Okay, this is me saying GO. OUT. AND. GET. THIS. BOOK.
Breaking Cage is an open-it-and-lose-track-of-the-world-around-you-book. It is a delicious romantic suspense that is woven in such a way, that it had me, a person who prides themselves on their ability to see the plot twists and solve the mystery in complete and total awe of this story. All I can say is, well-played A. J. Pryor. Very well-played.
Centered around the tense relationship between a pedigreed athlete and a journalist tasked with getting his story, it is the proverbial game of cat and mouse that evolves into something so much more. Hannah and Derek had a chemistry that went on for miles and could easily power the Chicago grid. Their story was so emotional and sexy, coupled with the subplot, it at times took my breath away.
True story -- Breaking Cage is A.J. Pryor's first romantic suspense, but you would never know it. This story never had a false note, it flowed so perfectly -- there were moments where I couldn't turn the page fast enough. It pulled me in and held me until the very last line.
Breaking Cage really was just such a fantastic read for me, go get your hands on this book and enjoy!
Happy reading!!
Laurie's Rating: 6++++++ Stars
Breaking Cage is an open-it-and-lose-track-of-the-world-around-you-book. It is a delicious romantic suspense that is woven in such a way, that it had me, a person who prides themselves on their ability to see the plot twists and solve the mystery in complete and total awe of this story. All I can say is, well-played A. J. Pryor. Very well-played.
Centered around the tense relationship between a pedigreed athlete and a journalist tasked with getting his story, it is the proverbial game of cat and mouse that evolves into something so much more. Hannah and Derek had a chemistry that went on for miles and could easily power the Chicago grid. Their story was so emotional and sexy, coupled with the subplot, it at times took my breath away.
True story -- Breaking Cage is A.J. Pryor's first romantic suspense, but you would never know it. This story never had a false note, it flowed so perfectly -- there were moments where I couldn't turn the page fast enough. It pulled me in and held me until the very last line.
Breaking Cage really was just such a fantastic read for me, go get your hands on this book and enjoy!
Happy reading!!
Laurie's Rating: 6++++++ Stars
November 15, 2016
Title: Breaking Cage
Author: A.J. Pryor
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports – Football, Suspense
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Rating: ★★★★★
Review
This is the first book I’ve had the pleasure of reading by this author, but after the way this story read, the connection I felt to both characters, and the ride I was taken on, it will not be my last.
Derek Cage is anything but your typical football hero. I always go into these type of stories expecting the typical. What we assume these guys, based on a lot of the ones that make the news, to be like. I really enjoy it, when like this author did here, they aren’t what you go in expecting. They’re more. There’s layers to them. Derek was the best kind of book boyfriend material, given who he was and the life he ran from, but also ran straight back into. He was kind, protective, soft at the perfect freaking times, but also a hard nut to crack. He wasn’t a player, though he did have his moments in the past, and well, given everything he endured in his past and throughout the course of this book, it was impossible not to fall head over feet for who he became. The man he was underneath what he did for a living, his family or the past he endured.
Which brings me to Hannah. I loved her just as much as Cage. She knew the position she was in, how hard it was going to be but she didn’t back down. She found herself in some precarious positions throughout the course of this book where Cage was concerned, and she just didn’t stop. She also didn’t judge. She kept an open mind and when things didn’t add up, she didn’t give up either or believe what others may have wanted her too. She sought out the truth. She wasn’t your typical heroine, but that’s what I loved about her. She stood out and was the perfect person to calm the raging sea that was Cage.
I believed in the passion that was evident right from the start with these two. The slow progression into them finally finding their way to one another, both in the romantic sense, but also in the more steamier sexual sense. It all worked out well for me with the way the author took great care in the pacing of the novel. It was quick where it needed to be, in terms of the more action based sequences, and the right level of slow and steady in others. When and where these two beautiful characters finally gave into one another happening at the perfect time and making me invest even more into them.
I’m a sucker for romantic suspense and I liked the way this one played out. It wasn’t over the top and I liked the level of drama here. I didn’t feel there was any drama for drama’s sake, everything tied together almost flawlessly and the end result I would have wanted here, given out invested I was with these two, I definitely received, both from the romantic angle as well as the suspense driven one.
All in all, for a first go round with an author, this one turned out amazing and I can’t wait to read more from this author, especially more romantic suspense, if she chooses to go that way, in the future. Definitely a five star read for me.
My thanks to the author and all others involved for letting me read an ARC of this for the blog. It’s a journey I’m so thankful that I got to take.
November 14, 2016
***4 ‘You will always be my exclusive’ Stars***
When I saw that Breaking Cage was a sports romance mixed with a little murder mystery suspense I knew I had to check it out. And yes, the cover was a draw as well. But despite the feelings of whiplash Hannah and Derek gave me as they danced around each other, I really enjoyed the the book as a whole and kept turning the pages to see if the person I picked as the murderer was the right one.
I really liked Derek and Hannah, I did. But dear lord did they drive me crazy. Despite what’s on the surface, Derek Cage’s life hasn’t been easy. True he has grown up with a silver spoon in his mouth thanks to his family’s illustrious legacy in business and politics and he is a starting quarterback, even if the sheen is a bit tarnished, but his soul was scarred as a teen at the loss of of two people who held his heart as well as the whispers that he was the one responsible for at least one of those losses. From the moment we meet Derek I just couldn’t imagine him as a murderer, intentional or otherwise. There was such a sense of goodness and compassion in him that surrounded him that said the man just couldn’t have done it. He was sweet, sexy and even gentle and just wanted to live a simple life.
Hannah has fled to the midwest after her personal life fell apart and is stepping out of her comfort zone and into the realm of sports reporting. Something that will be a bit of a challenge and made even more so when her first assignment is to get the elusive Derek Cage to open up. Hannah is a reporter through and through. It’s in her blood and she’s quite good at ferreting out information, even when the person doesn’t know they are giving her anything. I loved her determination, compassion and integrity. She may have kept some things secret, but she never hid her agenda. She wants to get her story, but she wants facts, not fluff or lies.
Hannah and Derek’s dance gave me whiplash with all the pushing and pulling that was going on between them, but there were valid reasons for it. Those reasons eased my frustration a bit and instead brought about an anxiousness at seeing just what it would take for them both to truly fall because they were good together. Despite the secrets that Derek was keeping and Hannah’s unhidden agenda to reveal them, there was the kind of chemistry between them that had me wanting them to jump all in, even if the fallout would be catastrophic. In the end, I liked where they ended up and thought it was perfect for them.
As for the murder mystery, I really liked how everything was revealed, or unraveled as is the case. The saying “What a tangled web we weave” is a great way to describe all the twists and turns that lead to a girl losing her life and how it changed the lives of all involved. While I did correctly guess at one aspect of the mystery, the other stuff I didn’t see coming at all, but in the end made total sense and I was more than happy with how everything was resolved in the end.
~Copy received via InkSlinger PR and voluntarily reviewed~
When I saw that Breaking Cage was a sports romance mixed with a little murder mystery suspense I knew I had to check it out. And yes, the cover was a draw as well. But despite the feelings of whiplash Hannah and Derek gave me as they danced around each other, I really enjoyed the the book as a whole and kept turning the pages to see if the person I picked as the murderer was the right one.
I really liked Derek and Hannah, I did. But dear lord did they drive me crazy. Despite what’s on the surface, Derek Cage’s life hasn’t been easy. True he has grown up with a silver spoon in his mouth thanks to his family’s illustrious legacy in business and politics and he is a starting quarterback, even if the sheen is a bit tarnished, but his soul was scarred as a teen at the loss of of two people who held his heart as well as the whispers that he was the one responsible for at least one of those losses. From the moment we meet Derek I just couldn’t imagine him as a murderer, intentional or otherwise. There was such a sense of goodness and compassion in him that surrounded him that said the man just couldn’t have done it. He was sweet, sexy and even gentle and just wanted to live a simple life.
Hannah has fled to the midwest after her personal life fell apart and is stepping out of her comfort zone and into the realm of sports reporting. Something that will be a bit of a challenge and made even more so when her first assignment is to get the elusive Derek Cage to open up. Hannah is a reporter through and through. It’s in her blood and she’s quite good at ferreting out information, even when the person doesn’t know they are giving her anything. I loved her determination, compassion and integrity. She may have kept some things secret, but she never hid her agenda. She wants to get her story, but she wants facts, not fluff or lies.
Hannah and Derek’s dance gave me whiplash with all the pushing and pulling that was going on between them, but there were valid reasons for it. Those reasons eased my frustration a bit and instead brought about an anxiousness at seeing just what it would take for them both to truly fall because they were good together. Despite the secrets that Derek was keeping and Hannah’s unhidden agenda to reveal them, there was the kind of chemistry between them that had me wanting them to jump all in, even if the fallout would be catastrophic. In the end, I liked where they ended up and thought it was perfect for them.
As for the murder mystery, I really liked how everything was revealed, or unraveled as is the case. The saying “What a tangled web we weave” is a great way to describe all the twists and turns that lead to a girl losing her life and how it changed the lives of all involved. While I did correctly guess at one aspect of the mystery, the other stuff I didn’t see coming at all, but in the end made total sense and I was more than happy with how everything was resolved in the end.
~Copy received via InkSlinger PR and voluntarily reviewed~
November 2, 2016
I have read AJ Pryor's previous book, Right Next Door, and LOVED it! So when I saw that she had a new book coming out, I jumped on it. And I'm SO glad I did! I enjoyed it just as much as Right Next Door. It's Rom-Com but with suspense and a whodunnit which all work for me! You're guessing along as you read, trying to figure out the mysteries of this book. And they're constantly changing!
Hannah is a reporter who has a new job in Chicago as a sports reporter. Problem is, she's not a sports writer. But she made it work and got hired to try and get close to the returning player, Derek "The Rage" Cage.
Derek has never been a fan of the media and journalists. He's done his best to steer clear of them. Until Hannah walks in with her crazy questions and interests him. He knows she's a journalist but he can't keep himself away. Even though he knows Hannah is supposed to write a piece on "The Rage" behind the football game.
Hannah is the only one who can see Derek as himself and not as an accused murderer. And she wants to protect Derek from all the evil in his life that is trying to harm him.
I can't tell you how much I LOVED this story! This will be another book I will re-read!
Hannah is a reporter who has a new job in Chicago as a sports reporter. Problem is, she's not a sports writer. But she made it work and got hired to try and get close to the returning player, Derek "The Rage" Cage.
Derek has never been a fan of the media and journalists. He's done his best to steer clear of them. Until Hannah walks in with her crazy questions and interests him. He knows she's a journalist but he can't keep himself away. Even though he knows Hannah is supposed to write a piece on "The Rage" behind the football game.
Hannah is the only one who can see Derek as himself and not as an accused murderer. And she wants to protect Derek from all the evil in his life that is trying to harm him.
I can't tell you how much I LOVED this story! This will be another book I will re-read!
November 7, 2016
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**
Breaking Cage is a lot of things rolled into one book. First and foremost it is a standalone contemporary sports romance by author A.J. Pryor. But it is also a mystery and suspense story. I think this will have crossover appeal to lots of people. I think both fans of new adult as well as adult romances will enjoy Breaking Cage. I also think that fans of both mysteries and sports romances will enjoy this story, even if you only consider yourself a fan of one or the other. This is my first book by A.J. Pryor and I think she does an excellent job blending the genres together to make a really great story.
Breaking Cage is Hannah and Derek's story. I have really been into reporter stories this year. I think this is a new thing in 2016 because I have been reading tons of new adult newbie reporter stories, where hte main character is trying to land a job or trying to get their first big break of their career, and I have to say I have enjoyed them all. (some others I have read lately are: Lessons In Gravity by Megan Westfield, and Playing By Her Rules by Amy Andrews) There is just something special about Breaking Cage and about Hannah and Derek. They drew me in right from the very first page.
What I really liked about Hannah and Derek is that they put their cards out on the table for everyone to see. They weren't keeping a bunch of secrets or hiding the ball as to what their end game was. Derek knew Hannah was trying to put a story together, and I really liked that. So many times I see people keeping this secret that just snowballs and always caused more problems than were necessary. What was a surprise was the mystery/suspense element thrown in. I really enjoyed that in this sports romance. I am not sure I have ever read that genre combo in a story, and I really dug it. I thought it was super well done and it has made me want to come back and grab another AJ Pryor book. I did notice a few sports related discrepancies throughout the book, but they didn't bother me too much. (I can see this being a bigger problem for a die hard sports fan that is picky about team matchups, rivalries and things like that.)
Bottom line: I loved that this was a character driven story. If you are a fan of character driven sports romances with a little mystery and suspense thrown in to keep things extra interesting, Breaking Cage is a great book for you to add to your TBR list. I really enjoyed this one.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Breaking Cage is a lot of things rolled into one book. First and foremost it is a standalone contemporary sports romance by author A.J. Pryor. But it is also a mystery and suspense story. I think this will have crossover appeal to lots of people. I think both fans of new adult as well as adult romances will enjoy Breaking Cage. I also think that fans of both mysteries and sports romances will enjoy this story, even if you only consider yourself a fan of one or the other. This is my first book by A.J. Pryor and I think she does an excellent job blending the genres together to make a really great story.
Breaking Cage is Hannah and Derek's story. I have really been into reporter stories this year. I think this is a new thing in 2016 because I have been reading tons of new adult newbie reporter stories, where hte main character is trying to land a job or trying to get their first big break of their career, and I have to say I have enjoyed them all. (some others I have read lately are: Lessons In Gravity by Megan Westfield, and Playing By Her Rules by Amy Andrews) There is just something special about Breaking Cage and about Hannah and Derek. They drew me in right from the very first page.
What I really liked about Hannah and Derek is that they put their cards out on the table for everyone to see. They weren't keeping a bunch of secrets or hiding the ball as to what their end game was. Derek knew Hannah was trying to put a story together, and I really liked that. So many times I see people keeping this secret that just snowballs and always caused more problems than were necessary. What was a surprise was the mystery/suspense element thrown in. I really enjoyed that in this sports romance. I am not sure I have ever read that genre combo in a story, and I really dug it. I thought it was super well done and it has made me want to come back and grab another AJ Pryor book. I did notice a few sports related discrepancies throughout the book, but they didn't bother me too much. (I can see this being a bigger problem for a die hard sports fan that is picky about team matchups, rivalries and things like that.)
Bottom line: I loved that this was a character driven story. If you are a fan of character driven sports romances with a little mystery and suspense thrown in to keep things extra interesting, Breaking Cage is a great book for you to add to your TBR list. I really enjoyed this one.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
November 7, 2016
4/5 Stars!!
Spoiler Free Review
A. J. Pryor does it again with this heart-wrenching, sexy, romantic suspense novel. Breaking Cage pulls you in from page one. I suggest not starting this one at bedtime unless you can work on no sleep, because once you start, you won't want to stop.
This isn't just a contemporary sports romance. It is a story of love, betrayal, secrets and lies. The story is complicated and intricate and engrossing. Derek Cage is a fascinating character who has layers beyond what the public sees, but he only pulls back those layers for Hannah. Hannah is ambitious and professional, yet she grows as a result of Derek and her need to protect him makes her that much more lovable.
I would like to thank A. J. Pryor for the shout out to the greatness of the Midwest! Pizza dipped in Ranch dressing?! Don't knock it 'til you try it!
I rated this 4 stars. I would have rated it higher, but there were a few issues I found with the actual sports part of the book. While this is not everyone's hang up, it is mine. If an author is going to write about sports, then please make sure your sports-related facts are correct...especially if you are using the names of actual sports organizations. Nascar would never be on TV on a Monday unless there was a rain delay the day before and even then, never at night...ever! There wouldn't even be a Nascar truck race on TV on a Monday. Also, it was football season, so why wasn't everyone in that bar watching Monday Night Football? Hmm? Also, the Jets are not always important, especially to the Bears. Why? Because the Bears are an NFC team and the Jets are AFC and those two teams only play each other in the regular season every four years, other than that, they would only face off during the Super Bowl. Harsh? Maybe, but this is my review and I am a sports fanatic and picky.
Sports faux pas aside, Breaking Cage is a must read!
Spoiler Free Review
A. J. Pryor does it again with this heart-wrenching, sexy, romantic suspense novel. Breaking Cage pulls you in from page one. I suggest not starting this one at bedtime unless you can work on no sleep, because once you start, you won't want to stop.
This isn't just a contemporary sports romance. It is a story of love, betrayal, secrets and lies. The story is complicated and intricate and engrossing. Derek Cage is a fascinating character who has layers beyond what the public sees, but he only pulls back those layers for Hannah. Hannah is ambitious and professional, yet she grows as a result of Derek and her need to protect him makes her that much more lovable.
I would like to thank A. J. Pryor for the shout out to the greatness of the Midwest! Pizza dipped in Ranch dressing?! Don't knock it 'til you try it!
I rated this 4 stars. I would have rated it higher, but there were a few issues I found with the actual sports part of the book. While this is not everyone's hang up, it is mine. If an author is going to write about sports, then please make sure your sports-related facts are correct...especially if you are using the names of actual sports organizations. Nascar would never be on TV on a Monday unless there was a rain delay the day before and even then, never at night...ever! There wouldn't even be a Nascar truck race on TV on a Monday. Also, it was football season, so why wasn't everyone in that bar watching Monday Night Football? Hmm? Also, the Jets are not always important, especially to the Bears. Why? Because the Bears are an NFC team and the Jets are AFC and those two teams only play each other in the regular season every four years, other than that, they would only face off during the Super Bowl. Harsh? Maybe, but this is my review and I am a sports fanatic and picky.
Sports faux pas aside, Breaking Cage is a must read!
November 8, 2016
Le pitch de ce roman est à la fois attractif et un peu convenu. Une journaliste qui rencontre un footballeur star ; c’est du déjà vu avec promesse de visite des vestiaires avec une équipe entière de sportifs nus et dégoulinants de sueur. C’est sympa mais pas très originale. L’auteure, heureusement, a dépassé cette intrigue très banale et a su la pimenter de quelques idées nouvelles très sympathiques qui apportent ce qu’il faut d’originalité et pique l’intérêt.
Hannah va donc débarquer à Chicago depuis sa Californie natale dans un journal sportif. Comme souvent, dans ce type d’intrigue, elle n’est pas du tout experte dans ce domaine, bien au contraire et elle comprend vite qu’elle n’est pas là pour les commentaires sportifs mais plutôt pour recueillir les confidences exclusives du quarterback de l’équipe qui cumule pas mal d’intérêts; Derek est beau, plutôt doué dans son domaine, le fils d’un sénateur en vue et a une réputation de violence et de colère incontrôlable. Ajouté à cela un passé trouble et hanté par la mort de plusieurs personnes très proches de lui et vous avez un homme qui attire forcément l’attention.
http://romance-bluemoon.com/2016/11/b...
Hannah va donc débarquer à Chicago depuis sa Californie natale dans un journal sportif. Comme souvent, dans ce type d’intrigue, elle n’est pas du tout experte dans ce domaine, bien au contraire et elle comprend vite qu’elle n’est pas là pour les commentaires sportifs mais plutôt pour recueillir les confidences exclusives du quarterback de l’équipe qui cumule pas mal d’intérêts; Derek est beau, plutôt doué dans son domaine, le fils d’un sénateur en vue et a une réputation de violence et de colère incontrôlable. Ajouté à cela un passé trouble et hanté par la mort de plusieurs personnes très proches de lui et vous avez un homme qui attire forcément l’attention.
http://romance-bluemoon.com/2016/11/b...
November 8, 2016
Wow-We-Wow, what do we have here…sports romance with a little bit of whodunnit thrown in, well sign my happy ass right on up!
Prior to becoming a Smut connoisseur or more palatability put, a lover of romance novels, I read a lot of mysteries. I still love me some Sue Grafton and Patricia Cornwell. So when the two genres I enjoy most were put together I had to jump on the chance to read it. Glad I did. I really enjoyed this book. Derek was everything you love in an alpha male lead. He had the whole potentially sweet, totally sexy hard and soft thing all sewed up. Of course, he started out as a total douche but as the story goes on you end up feeling bad for him and eventually loving everything about him. Hannah was cool as a female lead, I didn’t have much beef with her except her complete lack of sports knowledge but she totally made up for it. I figured out who killed the girl toward the middle of the book. I had my speculations the whole time and I was right with my first guess, just my motive was off. This book was totally worth the read, there were a few times when I felt myself rolling my eyes but in the end, I totally felt it was 4.25 star worthy!!
check out more reviews at HTTP://WWW.TEXTTEASERBOOKBLOG.COM
Prior to becoming a Smut connoisseur or more palatability put, a lover of romance novels, I read a lot of mysteries. I still love me some Sue Grafton and Patricia Cornwell. So when the two genres I enjoy most were put together I had to jump on the chance to read it. Glad I did. I really enjoyed this book. Derek was everything you love in an alpha male lead. He had the whole potentially sweet, totally sexy hard and soft thing all sewed up. Of course, he started out as a total douche but as the story goes on you end up feeling bad for him and eventually loving everything about him. Hannah was cool as a female lead, I didn’t have much beef with her except her complete lack of sports knowledge but she totally made up for it. I figured out who killed the girl toward the middle of the book. I had my speculations the whole time and I was right with my first guess, just my motive was off. This book was totally worth the read, there were a few times when I felt myself rolling my eyes but in the end, I totally felt it was 4.25 star worthy!!
check out more reviews at HTTP://WWW.TEXTTEASERBOOKBLOG.COM
November 13, 2016
Breaking Cage is not your average steamy sports romance novel.
Though the romance is steamy (and sporty) this novel has an added element of suspense with a murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Our heroine, Hannah, has about as much knowledge about the game of football as I have which isn't very much.
November 10, 2016
TRACY'S REVIEW
4 STARS
Hannah is the female character we get to meet in this standalone novel. She is a journalist who had just been given the assignment that could change her life, and interview with Chicago Bears Derek Cage. Easy right? Get in, get the interview and get out. Well, things are obviously never that easy in life, especially when your subject hates the media. Good thing Hannah turns up her charm and gets Derek to open up. Only, he has things in his past people don't want Hannah to know about. Is Derek really keeping secrets from her?
I honestly thought this was going to be a cute sport romance book based on my home team (Go bears!). Breaking Cage was so much more than that. I got the sport romance AND the suspense all in one. This made it so much more than what I thought it was going to be. Love when that happens!
4 STARS
Hannah is the female character we get to meet in this standalone novel. She is a journalist who had just been given the assignment that could change her life, and interview with Chicago Bears Derek Cage. Easy right? Get in, get the interview and get out. Well, things are obviously never that easy in life, especially when your subject hates the media. Good thing Hannah turns up her charm and gets Derek to open up. Only, he has things in his past people don't want Hannah to know about. Is Derek really keeping secrets from her?
I honestly thought this was going to be a cute sport romance book based on my home team (Go bears!). Breaking Cage was so much more than that. I got the sport romance AND the suspense all in one. This made it so much more than what I thought it was going to be. Love when that happens!
October 20, 2016
5 Stars
I was given this book for my honest review.
"You will always be my exclusive." Derek
The line above says it all when reading this most different book by this amazing author. Not only will you have the mystery, love, and wanting in this book but it will leave you with a sense of completeness.
Not giving anything away with Hannah and Derek's journey of a love that is so pure that purring throughout the book will be a norm for you. The sex is not only hotness but pure. The mystery is just a whole lot of fun you won't see coming but then again you might just remember though when reading this read that dreaming is a probability that will end in pureness of heart.
Major Major Kudos
Happy Reading
I was given this book for my honest review.
"You will always be my exclusive." Derek
The line above says it all when reading this most different book by this amazing author. Not only will you have the mystery, love, and wanting in this book but it will leave you with a sense of completeness.
Not giving anything away with Hannah and Derek's journey of a love that is so pure that purring throughout the book will be a norm for you. The sex is not only hotness but pure. The mystery is just a whole lot of fun you won't see coming but then again you might just remember though when reading this read that dreaming is a probability that will end in pureness of heart.
Major Major Kudos
Happy Reading
December 15, 2016
Hero(s) rating: 4.5 stars
Heroine rating: 4.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 3.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3.5 stars
Plot rating: 4.5 stars
Dialogue rating: 4 stars
Storytelling rating: 4.5 stars
Story ending rating: 4 stars
Other woman/men drama:
Cheating:
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
**********************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars
My expectations of this story were no were close to what I received.
Loved everything about this story, and the characters to boot.
Heroine rating: 4.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 3.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3.5 stars
Plot rating: 4.5 stars
Dialogue rating: 4 stars
Storytelling rating: 4.5 stars
Story ending rating: 4 stars
Other woman/men drama:
Cheating:
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
**********************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars
My expectations of this story were no were close to what I received.
Loved everything about this story, and the characters to boot.
November 14, 2016
#review #AJPryor
QueenZany 4 STAR REVIEW
Breaking Cage
AJ Pryor
“Breaking Cage” is a sexy, hot, savvy NFL romp in the hay!!
Gosh this book had it all! Lordy it was successful, with an air of a thrill, luscious and comical. With that being said, the storyline did take make for a few twist and turn. Which I had no clue was coming. So to my delight I was pleasantly pleased. Plus I love nothing better than an insta love romance.
received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher" is sufficient for your disclaimer.
QueenZany 4 STAR REVIEW
Breaking Cage
AJ Pryor
“Breaking Cage” is a sexy, hot, savvy NFL romp in the hay!!
Gosh this book had it all! Lordy it was successful, with an air of a thrill, luscious and comical. With that being said, the storyline did take make for a few twist and turn. Which I had no clue was coming. So to my delight I was pleasantly pleased. Plus I love nothing better than an insta love romance.
received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher" is sufficient for your disclaimer.
November 4, 2016
Derek and Hannah's story is not one to miss. A.J.'s writing is beautiful and flawless. This is one of those books that once you start reading you can't put it down. Derek is broken and you want to fix him and so does Hannah. This is full of surprises that you don't see coming. The sex scenes are smoking hot!!! This is the first book I have read of A.J.'s and will not be the last. This is not like every other book you have read.
Don't miss out on this AMAZING 5 star read!!
Don't miss out on this AMAZING 5 star read!!
November 5, 2016
I loved this book. Devoured it in one sitting. This is the type of book that makes you think -"did he or didn't he ..."
Derek and Hannah were the perfect couple - it wasn't the typical insta-love kind of story either . Trust had to be earned and wasn't given right away. Hannah had to work extremely hard to get Derek to open up.
Will totally read this book again and will most certainly will be in my favorite list
Derek and Hannah were the perfect couple - it wasn't the typical insta-love kind of story either . Trust had to be earned and wasn't given right away. Hannah had to work extremely hard to get Derek to open up.
Will totally read this book again and will most certainly will be in my favorite list
November 15, 2016
This book was such a fun and yet suspenseful read. I loved the characters and the chemistry between Derek and Hannah kept me from putting this book down. Adding in a mystery or two and a touch of football this book has it all for a great escape.
September 19, 2017
What Is It About:
Hannah was a reporter in Hollywood, known for finding out what makes a celebrity tick. She recently moved and gained a job as a sports reporter after lying in the interview saying that she knows a lot about sport. Her first and main task is the get the first ever, in-depth interview with Derek Cage- star quarterback and senator's son. But he doesn't do interviews, valuing his privacy and keeping all of his family secrets close to his chest. But the closer her gets to Hannah, and the more that he opens up to her, the more danger he puts her in.
What I Liked and Didn't:
I feel like this book was a massive mish-mash of plots. The largest plot points are the mysteries surrounding the murders of Derek's first love and the death of his Mum. Both of which are influenced by his father's power as Senator. Where does Derek's sport come into it? It doesn't really. There's no description of him playing because Hannah doesn't care about sport. Even the sub-plots have issues intergrating with the story. The murderer is both good and bad. I was surprised by who it was, but I was surprised because there was no foreshadowing or any suspense, just right out of the blue. Even the secrets that Derek hides from Hannah are annoying, it's meant to make him seem mysterious but I just wanted to know just so he'd shut up about them. Another sub-plot issue is about Derek's mother. It's a pretty big point at the start of the book because his mother's death is the main reason that Derek hates his father. But it's literally resolved in a page, it's resolved way too easily for years and years of lying and betrayal. But maybe that's cause I love to hold a grudge. Another thing that I wish had been addressed would be Hannah's father's lawsuit. It makes her stress, involves her family and ex-boyfriend, and is a big enough deal that Derek ends up paying the lawyer for her, but what's it about? All I know is malpractice but that's it? It's so badly described but is considered important, it's just so irksome. And my last big issue before attempting to list positives is Hannah's job. A woman in a predominantly male job is often accused of sleeping with people to get what they want. The woman could be absolutely brilliant at her job, but because she's better than a male, she must be screwing someone for a story or promotion. Hannah is literally doing that. She's "not like most girls" so Derek likes her and spills all of his secrets to her during pillow talk after she seduces and falls in love with him. That plot point follows every single negative stereotype about women and tries to make it romantic. Really? *sigh* Rant over, sorry about that.
Now let's try the positives... erm... While I wasn't too fond of either Hannah or Derek, I did quite like them as a couple. There was some romance and stolen moments. I like that Derek listened to what Hannah likes and took her for her favourite meal. I also like the whole "fighting against the odds for love" kind of plot because they technically shouldn't have worked as a couple. The plots were surprising, and I like to think that it takes a lot to surprise me. I wasn't prepared for the murderer, the twist about Derek's mum, and what Travis does near the end of the book.
Final Thoughts:
I would like to say that I was on the edge with the rating so it's more of a 2.5 star rating but I just couldn't bring myself to give it three stars because eventually the small annoying stuff start to add together.
Would I recommend it? It isn't a bad book, I just have other favourites when it comes to sports romance.
Will I read more books by A.J. Pryor? If I find a book that I like the sound of then sure but I won't read a book just because their name is on it.
Hannah was a reporter in Hollywood, known for finding out what makes a celebrity tick. She recently moved and gained a job as a sports reporter after lying in the interview saying that she knows a lot about sport. Her first and main task is the get the first ever, in-depth interview with Derek Cage- star quarterback and senator's son. But he doesn't do interviews, valuing his privacy and keeping all of his family secrets close to his chest. But the closer her gets to Hannah, and the more that he opens up to her, the more danger he puts her in.
What I Liked and Didn't:
I feel like this book was a massive mish-mash of plots. The largest plot points are the mysteries surrounding the murders of Derek's first love and the death of his Mum. Both of which are influenced by his father's power as Senator. Where does Derek's sport come into it? It doesn't really. There's no description of him playing because Hannah doesn't care about sport. Even the sub-plots have issues intergrating with the story. The murderer is both good and bad. I was surprised by who it was, but I was surprised because there was no foreshadowing or any suspense, just right out of the blue. Even the secrets that Derek hides from Hannah are annoying, it's meant to make him seem mysterious but I just wanted to know just so he'd shut up about them. Another sub-plot issue is about Derek's mother. It's a pretty big point at the start of the book because his mother's death is the main reason that Derek hates his father. But it's literally resolved in a page, it's resolved way too easily for years and years of lying and betrayal. But maybe that's cause I love to hold a grudge. Another thing that I wish had been addressed would be Hannah's father's lawsuit. It makes her stress, involves her family and ex-boyfriend, and is a big enough deal that Derek ends up paying the lawyer for her, but what's it about? All I know is malpractice but that's it? It's so badly described but is considered important, it's just so irksome. And my last big issue before attempting to list positives is Hannah's job. A woman in a predominantly male job is often accused of sleeping with people to get what they want. The woman could be absolutely brilliant at her job, but because she's better than a male, she must be screwing someone for a story or promotion. Hannah is literally doing that. She's "not like most girls" so Derek likes her and spills all of his secrets to her during pillow talk after she seduces and falls in love with him. That plot point follows every single negative stereotype about women and tries to make it romantic. Really? *sigh* Rant over, sorry about that.
Now let's try the positives... erm... While I wasn't too fond of either Hannah or Derek, I did quite like them as a couple. There was some romance and stolen moments. I like that Derek listened to what Hannah likes and took her for her favourite meal. I also like the whole "fighting against the odds for love" kind of plot because they technically shouldn't have worked as a couple. The plots were surprising, and I like to think that it takes a lot to surprise me. I wasn't prepared for the murderer, the twist about Derek's mum, and what Travis does near the end of the book.
Final Thoughts:
I would like to say that I was on the edge with the rating so it's more of a 2.5 star rating but I just couldn't bring myself to give it three stars because eventually the small annoying stuff start to add together.
Would I recommend it? It isn't a bad book, I just have other favourites when it comes to sports romance.
Will I read more books by A.J. Pryor? If I find a book that I like the sound of then sure but I won't read a book just because their name is on it.
January 19, 2017
OMG! I LOVED this book and I'll not be able to say enough great things about it - except READ IT! AJ Pryor's first foray into romantic suspense is fantastic and not to be missed!!! Hannah needs to re-invent her life after a destructive relationship she cannot shake and moves from LA to Chicago. She takes a job as a sports journalist, whose job it is to write an original, exclusive on the illusive QB for the Bears, Derek "The Rage" Cage.
Derek is the son of an Illinois senator and from Illinois' "first" family. His secret past leads him to lead an extremely quiet, exclusive life far from the prying public eye.
Hannah and Derek are instantly attracted to one another, but slowly allow their feelings and passion to build until neither can deny them. They both feel that they must instinctively protect the other, trust being the foundation of their budding relationship.
I won't leave any spoilers in regards to the mystery, as they are crucial to the story and I won't deny you the joy of discovery. I promise you that you this book will make you laugh, cry, rage but most of all FEEL!!!
Derek is the son of an Illinois senator and from Illinois' "first" family. His secret past leads him to lead an extremely quiet, exclusive life far from the prying public eye.
Hannah and Derek are instantly attracted to one another, but slowly allow their feelings and passion to build until neither can deny them. They both feel that they must instinctively protect the other, trust being the foundation of their budding relationship.
I won't leave any spoilers in regards to the mystery, as they are crucial to the story and I won't deny you the joy of discovery. I promise you that you this book will make you laugh, cry, rage but most of all FEEL!!!
December 25, 2016
Honestly I didn't have much expectations from this book but it kept me hooked till the end. It was not your usual sports romance where a sport star falls for the Journalist following him. It has a suspense element in it. Derek Cage had such a troubled and tragic life, I was so worried that Hannah will break his heart. But it hardly mattered to Derek he was so in love with her :)) Derek had his flaws but there were reasons for all his actions. I loved how he was not someone who doubted or showed mistrust towards Hannah. It was a good read I m glad I discovered this book :D
July 25, 2021
DNF @ 74%
December 31, 2016
Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick
Breaking Cage is my second book by A.J. Pryor and I have to admit that I was really excited to read it. This is a standalone sports romance, and the blurb immediately had me. Not only is this a sports romance, but there is an element of suspense and mystery to it that really intrigued me. I will say though that while I was really excited for this story, I ended up with mixed feelings after reading it. This one wasn't exactly what I had been expecting, and while there were things that I liked there were others that didn't quite work for me.
Hannah Black has just been given the opportunity of a lifetime, one that could make her career. She needs to get the story on Bears quarterback Derek Cage. Not only is he a football star, but he is the son of a senator and he hates the media. With speculation that he killed a girl, Hannah knows that she needs to do whatever it takes to get her story. But as hard as Derek tries to stay away from her, he finds himself drawn to Hannah and he starts to open up to her. As the truth starts to come out and secrets begin to be revealed, how far will Hannah go to tell the story and protect Derek?
I liked Hannah and Derek. It was refreshing to see them be honest about their intentions from the start. I liked the fact that they didn't hide things from one another, especially with everything that was happening. There was already suspense and mystery, and I think that had they not been upfront it would have been too much. They had chemistry right away and I really liked them for one another.
My issues with the story came with the fact that as a sports fan, there were things that just weren't accurate here and that drove me nuts. I think that if you aren't a huge fan of sports, it probably won't be that obvious to you and you probably will not even notice. But for me, the little details are where it lost me. I also felt like while this book was different and there were things I liked, that it was a bit all over the place. It just didn't feel entirely focused and that drove me a bit crazy as well. I think that there was a lot of potential here and there were some good elements. But with the things that I had problems with, I just wasn't able to love this one like I think I could have.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
Breaking Cage is my second book by A.J. Pryor and I have to admit that I was really excited to read it. This is a standalone sports romance, and the blurb immediately had me. Not only is this a sports romance, but there is an element of suspense and mystery to it that really intrigued me. I will say though that while I was really excited for this story, I ended up with mixed feelings after reading it. This one wasn't exactly what I had been expecting, and while there were things that I liked there were others that didn't quite work for me.
Hannah Black has just been given the opportunity of a lifetime, one that could make her career. She needs to get the story on Bears quarterback Derek Cage. Not only is he a football star, but he is the son of a senator and he hates the media. With speculation that he killed a girl, Hannah knows that she needs to do whatever it takes to get her story. But as hard as Derek tries to stay away from her, he finds himself drawn to Hannah and he starts to open up to her. As the truth starts to come out and secrets begin to be revealed, how far will Hannah go to tell the story and protect Derek?
I liked Hannah and Derek. It was refreshing to see them be honest about their intentions from the start. I liked the fact that they didn't hide things from one another, especially with everything that was happening. There was already suspense and mystery, and I think that had they not been upfront it would have been too much. They had chemistry right away and I really liked them for one another.
My issues with the story came with the fact that as a sports fan, there were things that just weren't accurate here and that drove me nuts. I think that if you aren't a huge fan of sports, it probably won't be that obvious to you and you probably will not even notice. But for me, the little details are where it lost me. I also felt like while this book was different and there were things I liked, that it was a bit all over the place. It just didn't feel entirely focused and that drove me a bit crazy as well. I think that there was a lot of potential here and there were some good elements. But with the things that I had problems with, I just wasn't able to love this one like I think I could have.
**ARC Provided by Inkslinger PR**
January 2, 2017
Hannah Black has bluffed her way into the "boys club" at sports reporting company Century in Rewind. She needed a quick get away from L.A. and landed in Chicago. Now she has an assignment to get notorious and infamous Derek Cage on the record. Derek, the star quarterback coming home to Chicago from San Francisco doesn't talk about his personal life - ever. He doesn't date, he doesn't like the limelight. That is until he meets Hannah and finds he wants more from life and Hannah.
I really enjoyed the interaction with Hannah and Derek. Ms. Pryor gave them instant chemistry but kept them each at arms length as they each grapple with secrets and past devastating hurts. The story line goes way beyond the athlete and the beautiful girl. Derek is a wounded soul and Hannah is torn between learning who he is and getting her story. Derek's father the Illinois senator , the smarmy jealous journalists and the mystery and intrigue surrounding the death of Derek's high school sweetheart will keep you turning page after page. Suspects abound as Hannah gets closer to the truth. Ms. Pryor's well laid out story will keep you guessing as each puzzle piece falls into place.
A really well written book filled with romance, steam, and suspense. As a side note: That gorgeous cover can't go without mention!
I really enjoyed the interaction with Hannah and Derek. Ms. Pryor gave them instant chemistry but kept them each at arms length as they each grapple with secrets and past devastating hurts. The story line goes way beyond the athlete and the beautiful girl. Derek is a wounded soul and Hannah is torn between learning who he is and getting her story. Derek's father the Illinois senator , the smarmy jealous journalists and the mystery and intrigue surrounding the death of Derek's high school sweetheart will keep you turning page after page. Suspects abound as Hannah gets closer to the truth. Ms. Pryor's well laid out story will keep you guessing as each puzzle piece falls into place.
A really well written book filled with romance, steam, and suspense. As a side note: That gorgeous cover can't go without mention!
January 17, 2017
Hannah is the female character we get to meet in this standalone novel. She is a journalist who had just been given the assignment that could change her life, and interview with Chicago Bears Derek Cage. Easy right? Get in, get the interview and get out. Well, things are obviously never that easy in life, especially when your subject hates the media. Good thing Hannah turns up her charm and gets Derek to open up. Only, he has things in his past people don't want Hannah to know about. Is Derek really keeping secrets from her?
I honestly thought this was going to be a cute sport romance book based on my home team (Go bears!). Breaking Cage was so much more than that. I got the sport romance AND the suspense all in one. This made it so much more than what I thought it was going to be. Love when that happens!
FMR Reviewer
I honestly thought this was going to be a cute sport romance book based on my home team (Go bears!). Breaking Cage was so much more than that. I got the sport romance AND the suspense all in one. This made it so much more than what I thought it was going to be. Love when that happens!
FMR Reviewer
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