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The Playbook #1
Ball Buster
In Kara Sheridan's sexy new series, these hard-hitting pro footballers don't play by the book.
Playbook Rule #1: Never ever give up
It's official. The Alabama Warriors have the worst reputation in pro football. As the team's captain, Carson Savage has his ass on the line and - thanks to a leaked photo - his ass is also online. Now the team is getting an image makeover from Sadie Reynolds, the hottest redhead in the South and Carson's high school sweetheart. Maybe making a play for his sexy ex is a risky move... but Carson didn't make it this far by playing it safe.
Alabama is the last place in the world Sadie wants to be. Going home again only reminds her of what - and who - she gave up. Seeing the insanely hot ex she never quite forgot is dangerous. Carson's too sexy. Too tempting. And Sadie can't afford to go out of bounds. So she'll do whatever it takes to finish this job and leave town with her heart still intact. The only problem? Carson's decided it's not about winning the game... it's about winning the girl.
The Playbook
Ball Buster
Tight End
Big Jock
Playbook Rule #1: Never ever give up
It's official. The Alabama Warriors have the worst reputation in pro football. As the team's captain, Carson Savage has his ass on the line and - thanks to a leaked photo - his ass is also online. Now the team is getting an image makeover from Sadie Reynolds, the hottest redhead in the South and Carson's high school sweetheart. Maybe making a play for his sexy ex is a risky move... but Carson didn't make it this far by playing it safe.
Alabama is the last place in the world Sadie wants to be. Going home again only reminds her of what - and who - she gave up. Seeing the insanely hot ex she never quite forgot is dangerous. Carson's too sexy. Too tempting. And Sadie can't afford to go out of bounds. So she'll do whatever it takes to finish this job and leave town with her heart still intact. The only problem? Carson's decided it's not about winning the game... it's about winning the girl.
The Playbook
Ball Buster
Tight End
Big Jock
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2018
About the author
Kara Sheridan
5 books11 followersKara Sheridan was raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. She spent her childhood reading, writing, and playing soccer. After meeting her husband in New England, they moved to Alaska where she studied environmental science. Kara then spent nearly a decade working as an environmental scientist, specializing in soil and water contamination and environmental assessments.
Kara still lives in Anchorage, Alaska, and spends her days writing evocative contemporary and historical romance. When she's not reading, writing, or editing, she enjoys time with her husband, pets, and friends.
Kara still lives in Anchorage, Alaska, and spends her days writing evocative contemporary and historical romance. When she's not reading, writing, or editing, she enjoys time with her husband, pets, and friends.
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December 13, 20182.5 stars
Not a bad book by all means, it’s more my bad mood.
Since 2nd chance it’s my less favorite trope, I guess it would be fair, if I won’t rate it.
!Spoilers! !Spoilers! !Spoilers!
Not a bad book by all means, it’s more my bad mood.
Since 2nd chance it’s my less favorite trope, I guess it would be fair, if I won’t rate it.
!Spoilers! !Spoilers! !Spoilers!
April 30, 2018
This is some cover, huh? Pink is my favorite color, so the pink text sold me on this book. That's where this book got its first star.
With all the options available, how did we end up with the outdated she's just playing hard to get, isn't it cute trope?
My day job is as a Social Worker, so books that remind me of the situations I help people through tend to get me all prickled.
The first third of the book is her asking him to respect her personal space, to respect her boundaries, not to call her kitty cat and him saying I know you like it.
Frankly, this entire trope romanticizes a huge issue in our society. It does a disservice to anyone who struggles to assert themselves, anyone who had their boundaries pushed, anyone who has felt like they had to accept bad behavior.
The second third is her trampling all over his boundaries - because it will be good for her career.
I couldn't buy into the relationship, neither party seemed to respect the other. With that said, I could call it realistic. There are a lot of unhealthy relationships in the world. I don't think either character set out to behave badly, they likely just didn't know better.
The writing was engaging; I enjoyed getting to know the football team. I liked Carson, he would be a great book-acquaintance, but not my ideal choice for a book-boyfriend. Sadie was super unlikable. She was whiny and her default response to everything was to run away.
I was prepared to give this book 3 stars because I understand it was my issues that kept me from enjoying this one. Then I got to the ending.
Seriously, had it stopped at the end of chapter 29, I would have been more than happy to leave it at 3 stars and forget this whole thing never happened.
But, I couldn't be so lucky. There is one ending I passionately hate. I screen for it. I ask about it in my review policy and when I request a book I screen through the early reviews to see if there is any mention of it. So imagine my surprise...
Overall, Ball Buster was everything I try to avoid in a book. I have to say that's an impressive feat. I didn't enjoy it and I think it's safe to say this wasn't a good fit for me. However, I'm sure many people will enjoy the flirting and uhm the surprise at the end.
With all the options available, how did we end up with the outdated she's just playing hard to get, isn't it cute trope?
My day job is as a Social Worker, so books that remind me of the situations I help people through tend to get me all prickled.
The first third of the book is her asking him to respect her personal space, to respect her boundaries, not to call her kitty cat and him saying I know you like it.
Frankly, this entire trope romanticizes a huge issue in our society. It does a disservice to anyone who struggles to assert themselves, anyone who had their boundaries pushed, anyone who has felt like they had to accept bad behavior.
The second third is her trampling all over his boundaries - because it will be good for her career.
I couldn't buy into the relationship, neither party seemed to respect the other. With that said, I could call it realistic. There are a lot of unhealthy relationships in the world. I don't think either character set out to behave badly, they likely just didn't know better.
The writing was engaging; I enjoyed getting to know the football team. I liked Carson, he would be a great book-acquaintance, but not my ideal choice for a book-boyfriend. Sadie was super unlikable. She was whiny and her default response to everything was to run away.
I was prepared to give this book 3 stars because I understand it was my issues that kept me from enjoying this one. Then I got to the ending.
Seriously, had it stopped at the end of chapter 29, I would have been more than happy to leave it at 3 stars and forget this whole thing never happened.
But, I couldn't be so lucky. There is one ending I passionately hate. I screen for it. I ask about it in my review policy and when I request a book I screen through the early reviews to see if there is any mention of it. So imagine my surprise...
Overall, Ball Buster was everything I try to avoid in a book. I have to say that's an impressive feat. I didn't enjoy it and I think it's safe to say this wasn't a good fit for me. However, I'm sure many people will enjoy the flirting and uhm the surprise at the end.
April 14, 2018
Great story. Reads fast even though it's long. It was so good, I never wanted to skim. They were high school sweethearts who never stopped loving each other. Both were with others while they were apart. Once they see each other again, there is no others. They were only apart for a few hours after they get back together. Not a lot of drama which I love. Very well written. Great read. Little more push/pull for me, but it went well with the story.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
June 16, 2018
3.5-4
Full Review on my blog
*a copy was provided by NetGalley*
This was my first Kara Sheridan read. I confess, it was the cover and title that caught my attention. I don't like really read books with a sports aspect to them but this one was interesting! While I admit to struggling through the first half of the book, the last half pulled me in and ended with a touchdown.
The main characters were high school sweethearts and Carson was on track to play professionally. He had plans for Sadie to follow him to college, then marry him after graduation; not taking into account what she wanted to do. Sadie decided that she didn't want this and broke up with him right after high school graduation and moved north for college. She returns to Alabama reluctantly to help Carson and his teammates remake their images. Of course, Carson decides he wants her back and works on winning her.
It is sweet, sexy and emotional with great dynamics between the characters. Pretty good. If you like second chance romances then you'll probably enjoy this!
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Full Review on my blog
*a copy was provided by NetGalley*
This was my first Kara Sheridan read. I confess, it was the cover and title that caught my attention. I don't like really read books with a sports aspect to them but this one was interesting! While I admit to struggling through the first half of the book, the last half pulled me in and ended with a touchdown.
The main characters were high school sweethearts and Carson was on track to play professionally. He had plans for Sadie to follow him to college, then marry him after graduation; not taking into account what she wanted to do. Sadie decided that she didn't want this and broke up with him right after high school graduation and moved north for college. She returns to Alabama reluctantly to help Carson and his teammates remake their images. Of course, Carson decides he wants her back and works on winning her.
It is sweet, sexy and emotional with great dynamics between the characters. Pretty good. If you like second chance romances then you'll probably enjoy this!
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Tumblr | Facebook
April 11, 2018
4 Stars - 3 Flames
Finally!!! A high school sweetheart story that isn't all about the drama. Don't get me wrong, there's some issues that need to be addressed. But nothing like someone cheating or anything like that. This was honestly a nice refreshing read.
Sadie was the high school quarterbacks girlfriend. You know. The girl who was supposed to follow him to college, marry and raise the perfect family in the small town. But that wasn't her vision. Nope. So what did she do? She broke up with the boyfriend and ran. But running didn't do anything. In fact, she's spent the last several years trying to replace what she once had in high school without luck. And now that her boss is sending her to her hometown state of Alabama, she's finding out that the past is very much present. In every way possible.
Carson was the high school quarterback who literally had everything. The looks, the football career and the girl. That is until the girl he loved broke his heart. He's now the quarterback of an Alabama NFL team, but still can't seem to get over his girl. To make things worse, the team has hired a social media guru to fix some issues within, and the person hired is non other than...yep, his girl. He's got another chance to make things right. At least, he hopes he does.
I thought that this was a cute "reconnect" story. These two obviously never got over each other. Carson needed to "grow up" a little bit and Sadie needed to deal with some of her issues before they were truly ready for each other. Which is why the timing is perfect.
I really liked how we got to meet and fall for some of the other players on the team. I especially liked the relationship Carson had with his bestie, Ty. (Total BRO moment in the book). Sadie's friends are a hoot. Hoping to hear more from Barbie. Love her spirit.
All in all...awesome start to a series!!!
Finally!!! A high school sweetheart story that isn't all about the drama. Don't get me wrong, there's some issues that need to be addressed. But nothing like someone cheating or anything like that. This was honestly a nice refreshing read.
Sadie was the high school quarterbacks girlfriend. You know. The girl who was supposed to follow him to college, marry and raise the perfect family in the small town. But that wasn't her vision. Nope. So what did she do? She broke up with the boyfriend and ran. But running didn't do anything. In fact, she's spent the last several years trying to replace what she once had in high school without luck. And now that her boss is sending her to her hometown state of Alabama, she's finding out that the past is very much present. In every way possible.
Carson was the high school quarterback who literally had everything. The looks, the football career and the girl. That is until the girl he loved broke his heart. He's now the quarterback of an Alabama NFL team, but still can't seem to get over his girl. To make things worse, the team has hired a social media guru to fix some issues within, and the person hired is non other than...yep, his girl. He's got another chance to make things right. At least, he hopes he does.
I thought that this was a cute "reconnect" story. These two obviously never got over each other. Carson needed to "grow up" a little bit and Sadie needed to deal with some of her issues before they were truly ready for each other. Which is why the timing is perfect.
I really liked how we got to meet and fall for some of the other players on the team. I especially liked the relationship Carson had with his bestie, Ty. (Total BRO moment in the book). Sadie's friends are a hoot. Hoping to hear more from Barbie. Love her spirit.
All in all...awesome start to a series!!!
May 15, 2018
Ball Buster by Kara Sheridan is book One in The Playbook series. This is the story of Carson Savage and Sadie Reynolds.
Carson and Sadie once were in a relationship with they were younger and both had moved on. Carson became the Team Captain of The Alabama Warriors but an embarrassing photo of him is online. In addition, there are some other things about the team has put them into needing a 'makeover' of their public image.
Sadie has come into help with the makeover of the team and to help Carson. But she has plans to head back out and not stay for long...but can the feelings they are starting to feel again be enough to keep her?
Really enjoyed this book!
Carson and Sadie once were in a relationship with they were younger and both had moved on. Carson became the Team Captain of The Alabama Warriors but an embarrassing photo of him is online. In addition, there are some other things about the team has put them into needing a 'makeover' of their public image.
Sadie has come into help with the makeover of the team and to help Carson. But she has plans to head back out and not stay for long...but can the feelings they are starting to feel again be enough to keep her?
Really enjoyed this book!
May 16, 2018
-Kacie, 4.5 stars
I started this book while I was getting ready for the day, thinking I would be able to put it down when I needed to. Yeah, that didn’t happen. I was 30 minutes late waking my kids up and we slid into the school by the skin of our teeth. There was something about this book and these characters that made it hard for me to put it down.
Carson Savage is a hometown, Home state football hero. He was a bit of an idiot when he was younger, thinking his girl would follow him and his dreams and forget about her own. I liked the older Carson. He was setting himself up to get his girl back before she even came back. He is also strong willed and persistent. He knew he wanted Sadie and would stop at nothing. Sadie is a ball buster! She’s a sassy, take no crap individual. She seems lonely and every relationship she’s had, or hasn’t, has been compared to Carson Savage. I found Sadie to be wishy washy, wanting Carson but then not wanting Carson. As a couple, they had great chemistry together.
The book definitely hit the nail on the head with the southern small town life. How helpful and mean people can be! There were a lot of strong supporting characters and I can’t wait to read about them.
I started this book while I was getting ready for the day, thinking I would be able to put it down when I needed to. Yeah, that didn’t happen. I was 30 minutes late waking my kids up and we slid into the school by the skin of our teeth. There was something about this book and these characters that made it hard for me to put it down.
Carson Savage is a hometown, Home state football hero. He was a bit of an idiot when he was younger, thinking his girl would follow him and his dreams and forget about her own. I liked the older Carson. He was setting himself up to get his girl back before she even came back. He is also strong willed and persistent. He knew he wanted Sadie and would stop at nothing. Sadie is a ball buster! She’s a sassy, take no crap individual. She seems lonely and every relationship she’s had, or hasn’t, has been compared to Carson Savage. I found Sadie to be wishy washy, wanting Carson but then not wanting Carson. As a couple, they had great chemistry together.
The book definitely hit the nail on the head with the southern small town life. How helpful and mean people can be! There were a lot of strong supporting characters and I can’t wait to read about them.
May 2, 2018
Unfortunately, while the title and the blurb was catchy, Ball Buster was unfortunately a DNF for me. It did not resonate and I found myself struggling to connect with the characters and the storyline overall. Sadie and Carson's obvious chemistry was evident but I found their characters lacking the depth I usually look for in my books.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity and am confident that this book will be a better fit for someone else. 2 stars ~Ratula
I would like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity and am confident that this book will be a better fit for someone else. 2 stars ~Ratula
June 27, 2018
Ball Buster is a second chance Sports Romance told in third party narrative. Although the pacing of this book perfect (Read Fast) it still failed to captivate me. I really struggled to connect with this book and the characters. As much as I wanted to finish this book cause the writing was decent enough, I just couldn't follow through in the end. DNF
May 11, 2018
The characters in this book left me underwhelmed. I never took a liking to either lead character. I didn't feel any chemistry. I hate bullying and just made me not want them to get together.
April 22, 2018
After some suggestive photos hit the internet Carson Savage and his teammates find themselves in hot water with their coach and the teams owner, they have just helped their team earned themselves the worst reputation in the league. This of course doesn't sit well with the owner so he devises a plan to help them clean up their acts, hires a social media guru, and issues a warning, they either accept the changes or they will find themselves without a job. And the moment this new social media guru wanders into the room Carson's world comes to a screeching halt... standing before him is the woman who broke his heart into a million pieces and left town and never looked back. While the sting is still there, Carson also has to admit there are a lot of sparks still there too... and he plans to explore every single one of them!
The moment her phone rings and Sadie sees that her boss is calling she knows it must be serious, so she cuts her vacation activities short and answers her phone, he has a new job for her, but the moment she hears what it is she is ready to quit. Because this new job will force her to face a past that she has no interest in taking a second look at, the Alabama Warriors have just earned themselves the worst reputation in the NFL, and their owner wants her to come in and clean house. She knows the moments she arrives in Alabama she is going to run into the man who still holds a huge piece of her heart, but they didn't leave things on the best of terms, and she is certain they won't ever be able to get back what they once had, so it's best to avoid him. But doing so will mean that she won't have a job anymore, so she bites her tongue, and heads to the one place she never intended to see again!
Ball Buster is a sweet and sexy love story, with a southern twist, that is sure to win the hearts of romance readers!! This first installment in the Playbook series has me really excited to see what is to come in the future installments, I love sports romance stories, and this one scored serious points with me! It had the swoon-worthy football star, a steamy and heartfelt reunion, and a feisty heroine that I couldn't help but admire! I highly recommend you pick this one up, Carson is sure to melt your heart and your tablet screen!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley, and voluntarily read and reviewed.
The moment her phone rings and Sadie sees that her boss is calling she knows it must be serious, so she cuts her vacation activities short and answers her phone, he has a new job for her, but the moment she hears what it is she is ready to quit. Because this new job will force her to face a past that she has no interest in taking a second look at, the Alabama Warriors have just earned themselves the worst reputation in the NFL, and their owner wants her to come in and clean house. She knows the moments she arrives in Alabama she is going to run into the man who still holds a huge piece of her heart, but they didn't leave things on the best of terms, and she is certain they won't ever be able to get back what they once had, so it's best to avoid him. But doing so will mean that she won't have a job anymore, so she bites her tongue, and heads to the one place she never intended to see again!
Ball Buster is a sweet and sexy love story, with a southern twist, that is sure to win the hearts of romance readers!! This first installment in the Playbook series has me really excited to see what is to come in the future installments, I love sports romance stories, and this one scored serious points with me! It had the swoon-worthy football star, a steamy and heartfelt reunion, and a feisty heroine that I couldn't help but admire! I highly recommend you pick this one up, Carson is sure to melt your heart and your tablet screen!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley, and voluntarily read and reviewed.
May 28, 2018
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Carson was great. We see that even though he is a professional athlete he is still down to earth and cares about his team and town. His team that has a negative image due to some social media blunders that has the owner bringing in a image consultant to do a makeover and has some athletes jobs on the line.
Carson, as the captain, is to take part in the classes for team morale. What he doesn’t expect is his ex Sadie to be the one leading the classes. The woman who broke his heart and is still wary of him and all men.
Sadie is smart, sassy and kind. She is also very career oriented and believes that the country and her hometown isn’t where she will ever want to be. Even though her and Carson have enough sparks to light up a fourth of July fireworks show she doesn’t want to act on them. She guards her heart with a chastity belt and holds that key close to her. Carson had his work cut out for him as he shows Sadie who he is and gets her to see he isn’t the boy she left but a man that thinks of others and doesn’t care what others think. He is very private and family oriented and this does help to soften Sadie. He does fight her on some things due to his family and respecting them and their privacy. As they get to know one another again, we see the intimacy of learning each other and the intimacy of reacquainting one another as lovers as well. The romance is spicy, sassy, sexy and fun. I love watching Sadie put Carson in his place and be a challenge for him. I love seeing her slowly let go and give her heart to Carson and how he is willing to sacrifice for her. I hated seeing her let go and be too afraid to take a chance. Good think Carson doesn’t give up.
A sexy, sassy and fun romance that has you love the characters and the second chance at romance Carson and Sadie get and the journey to being together once again.
Carson was great. We see that even though he is a professional athlete he is still down to earth and cares about his team and town. His team that has a negative image due to some social media blunders that has the owner bringing in a image consultant to do a makeover and has some athletes jobs on the line.
Carson, as the captain, is to take part in the classes for team morale. What he doesn’t expect is his ex Sadie to be the one leading the classes. The woman who broke his heart and is still wary of him and all men.
Sadie is smart, sassy and kind. She is also very career oriented and believes that the country and her hometown isn’t where she will ever want to be. Even though her and Carson have enough sparks to light up a fourth of July fireworks show she doesn’t want to act on them. She guards her heart with a chastity belt and holds that key close to her. Carson had his work cut out for him as he shows Sadie who he is and gets her to see he isn’t the boy she left but a man that thinks of others and doesn’t care what others think. He is very private and family oriented and this does help to soften Sadie. He does fight her on some things due to his family and respecting them and their privacy. As they get to know one another again, we see the intimacy of learning each other and the intimacy of reacquainting one another as lovers as well. The romance is spicy, sassy, sexy and fun. I love watching Sadie put Carson in his place and be a challenge for him. I love seeing her slowly let go and give her heart to Carson and how he is willing to sacrifice for her. I hated seeing her let go and be too afraid to take a chance. Good think Carson doesn’t give up.
A sexy, sassy and fun romance that has you love the characters and the second chance at romance Carson and Sadie get and the journey to being together once again.
May 12, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
3.5*s rounded up because Carson really didn't deserve to be in the naughty class!
This is the start of a new series, which promises to give us plenty of sexy sports romances in the future. A team full of football players who use social media to prove their foolhardy behaviour is indeed rife. The NFL are fed up and Alabama Warriors owner employs a PR company to sort out his team before they get in any more trouble.
Sadie has a past in Alabama, but promised she would never go back - after all there is no love lost for her in her nearby home town, after she broke her high school boyfriend's heart. Now her boss has sent her to sort out the PR for the Warriors ... where that one time boyfriend plays ...
Whilst her behaviour all those years ago hurt both her and Carson, it turns out that she was vilified then, and as they get a second chance, the problems start again. But this time Carson knows and is convinced that they will get the future he always wanted. His determination and the care that he displays to Sadie remind her of all the good things they once had. She has never stopped loving him, the problem is that she does not want to lose her independence. It is very sweet and romantic as they rediscover each other emotionally and physically.
Sadie's plans for the team work wonders, yet the guys are still a handful. I am guessing that some of them will get their chance at romance in future books.
3.5*s rounded up because Carson really didn't deserve to be in the naughty class!
This is the start of a new series, which promises to give us plenty of sexy sports romances in the future. A team full of football players who use social media to prove their foolhardy behaviour is indeed rife. The NFL are fed up and Alabama Warriors owner employs a PR company to sort out his team before they get in any more trouble.
Sadie has a past in Alabama, but promised she would never go back - after all there is no love lost for her in her nearby home town, after she broke her high school boyfriend's heart. Now her boss has sent her to sort out the PR for the Warriors ... where that one time boyfriend plays ...
Whilst her behaviour all those years ago hurt both her and Carson, it turns out that she was vilified then, and as they get a second chance, the problems start again. But this time Carson knows and is convinced that they will get the future he always wanted. His determination and the care that he displays to Sadie remind her of all the good things they once had. She has never stopped loving him, the problem is that she does not want to lose her independence. It is very sweet and romantic as they rediscover each other emotionally and physically.
Sadie's plans for the team work wonders, yet the guys are still a handful. I am guessing that some of them will get their chance at romance in future books.
March 31, 2018
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book vIa Cocktails and Books and Netgalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
This is the first book in the Playbook series and is a standalone. It is a second chance romance about an NFL player who is reunited with his high school sweetheart. It is sweet, sexy and emotional with great dynamics between the characters. The two main characters care about each other but people and circumstances keep them apart.
Carson Savage is the quarterback and captain of the Alabama Warriors and I liked everything about him. He is a good guy with loads of southern charm. He is a caring, sweet, compassionate guy and has never forgotten Sadie, his high school girlfriend. Carson loves Sadie and wants her back and is willing to do whatever it takes to convince her they should be together.
Sadie Reynolds has never gotten over her first love, Carson Savage. She is smart, controlling and works helping people improve their public image. Her boss insists she work with the Warriors and that means working with Carson. Seven years ago, Sadie ran away from Carson and her hometown because she wanted a career. She has mixed feelings about seeing him again
When Carson and Sadie are together again they realize they still have deep feelings for each other. Sadie cares about Carson but is confused and doesn’t want to lose herself in his success. Carson works hard to show Sadie how much he cares for her. He doesn't want to lose her again. I enjoyed this enchanting story.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book vIa Cocktails and Books and Netgalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
This is the first book in the Playbook series and is a standalone. It is a second chance romance about an NFL player who is reunited with his high school sweetheart. It is sweet, sexy and emotional with great dynamics between the characters. The two main characters care about each other but people and circumstances keep them apart.
Carson Savage is the quarterback and captain of the Alabama Warriors and I liked everything about him. He is a good guy with loads of southern charm. He is a caring, sweet, compassionate guy and has never forgotten Sadie, his high school girlfriend. Carson loves Sadie and wants her back and is willing to do whatever it takes to convince her they should be together.
Sadie Reynolds has never gotten over her first love, Carson Savage. She is smart, controlling and works helping people improve their public image. Her boss insists she work with the Warriors and that means working with Carson. Seven years ago, Sadie ran away from Carson and her hometown because she wanted a career. She has mixed feelings about seeing him again
When Carson and Sadie are together again they realize they still have deep feelings for each other. Sadie cares about Carson but is confused and doesn’t want to lose herself in his success. Carson works hard to show Sadie how much he cares for her. He doesn't want to lose her again. I enjoyed this enchanting story.
May 12, 2018
This is a sweet and gritty second chance romance that I really enjoyed.
Carson Savage plays for the Alabama Warriors, a football team that currently has a terrible reputation and when exposing photos of him are leaked to the public he’s been put on warning that his career could be on the line. Sadie works for the company that has been hired to “rebrand” the Warriors and her boss forces her into the assignment with their team even though Alabama is the last place on earth Sadie wants to return to. Especially knowing that she’ll be working with Carson, her first love and the boy who’s heart she broke. When the two see each other again the sparks are still there but Carson holds anger for Sadie leaving the way she did but on the same note he’s ready to pick right back up where things left of with them.
I loved Sadie’s take-no-crap attitude, she’s fierce, determined and passionate and it made her character very loveable. The heat between Carson and Sadie is off the charts – this book has a fast pace, awesome characters and a great storyline. I loved it!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Carson Savage plays for the Alabama Warriors, a football team that currently has a terrible reputation and when exposing photos of him are leaked to the public he’s been put on warning that his career could be on the line. Sadie works for the company that has been hired to “rebrand” the Warriors and her boss forces her into the assignment with their team even though Alabama is the last place on earth Sadie wants to return to. Especially knowing that she’ll be working with Carson, her first love and the boy who’s heart she broke. When the two see each other again the sparks are still there but Carson holds anger for Sadie leaving the way she did but on the same note he’s ready to pick right back up where things left of with them.
I loved Sadie’s take-no-crap attitude, she’s fierce, determined and passionate and it made her character very loveable. The heat between Carson and Sadie is off the charts – this book has a fast pace, awesome characters and a great storyline. I loved it!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
May 9, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4 stars
The last thing Sadie wants to do is go home to Alabama and face her past. She's done an excellent job the last few years of staying far, far away. When she broke up with the hometown hero, she was basically run out of town on a rail and she hasn't looked back since. She knew what would happen if she stayed, or stayed with Carson. Her dreams would have taken a backseat to his, after all, football is king and he played as though the custom made for his hand. Now she has no choice. She's getting paid mega bucks to go back there and solve the Warriors image problems. If she could only say no.
Carson has no idea of how Sadie was treated after they broke up. He drowned his sorrows in a bottle until it was time to leave for college and he did his best to make football his priority. He's always loved Sadie and doesn't understand why Sadie hates Alabama. When he realizes how his hometown treated her after the breakup, even he thinks love won't conquer all.
I enjoyed this book and how both Carson and Sadie had to face some harsh truths and face reality about how life really is and what is truly important.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
3 1/2 stars rounded up to 4 stars
The last thing Sadie wants to do is go home to Alabama and face her past. She's done an excellent job the last few years of staying far, far away. When she broke up with the hometown hero, she was basically run out of town on a rail and she hasn't looked back since. She knew what would happen if she stayed, or stayed with Carson. Her dreams would have taken a backseat to his, after all, football is king and he played as though the custom made for his hand. Now she has no choice. She's getting paid mega bucks to go back there and solve the Warriors image problems. If she could only say no.
Carson has no idea of how Sadie was treated after they broke up. He drowned his sorrows in a bottle until it was time to leave for college and he did his best to make football his priority. He's always loved Sadie and doesn't understand why Sadie hates Alabama. When he realizes how his hometown treated her after the breakup, even he thinks love won't conquer all.
I enjoyed this book and how both Carson and Sadie had to face some harsh truths and face reality about how life really is and what is truly important.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
April 25, 2018
Ball Buster is a second chance football player romance that's heartwarming from the start! I read this book in two sittings and found myself smiling into my Kindle most of the time. There's a bit of drama, some steam, and a lot of Sadie and Carson figuring out how to find each other again without losing themselves. It's refreshingly low on drawn-out will-they-won't-they angst, focusing instead on rebuilding their relationship and creating a world of secondary characters that I'm looking forward to learning more about in future books.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 4, 2018
Review Posted at HarlequinJunkie.com
Heading home to Alabama isn’t easy for Sadie Reynolds. Most of all because her high school sweetheart Carson Savage still lives there and the team he plays for has just become her latest client when a leaked photo labels The Warriors the team with the worst reputation. Determined to help turn the team’s reputation around, Sadie knows she can’t afford any distractions. However, Carson has other ideas. Will Carson be able to win Sadie back or will she walk away from their second chance at happy ever after? Read More
April 18, 2018
Second Chance Romance. High School Sweet Hearts. HEA.
First book I have read by this author.
This is a second chance romance about high school sweet hearts.
Carson and Sadie where high school sweet hearts. After breaking up after graduation and not seeing each other for 7 years, are about to be reunited by the firm the PR Sadie works for.
Carson is an NFL star Quarterback.
This is a really great second chance romance that really pulls at the heart strings.
I loved the story. Beautifully written.
First book I have read by this author.
This is a second chance romance about high school sweet hearts.
Carson and Sadie where high school sweet hearts. After breaking up after graduation and not seeing each other for 7 years, are about to be reunited by the firm the PR Sadie works for.
Carson is an NFL star Quarterback.
This is a really great second chance romance that really pulls at the heart strings.
I loved the story. Beautifully written.
April 20, 2018
Awesome second chance sports romance. A win-win for me since I love both tropes. I really enjoyed this book and loved Carson & Sadie so much and their story. They have serious case of the adorables which is so sweet! I will definitely check out more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley.
March 22, 2018
Fun new football series- well written with a great cast of characters!
April 19, 2018
2nd chances at love are always a winner with me. The story is fun and makes you laugh. It also makes you sad and has you rooting for forever. The characters are colorful and the book well written. It kept me entertained from beginning to end
April 7, 2018
Carson is a caveman and likes to make sure his woman gets on the same page as him, "a few minutes later, Carson rested his head against her chest, still breathing hard. “You’re mine again, Sadie.” Carson's threats aren't really all the threatening, “keep doing that and the only thing you’re going to be picking is grass off your backside after I get done effing you in that field over there.” I liked this book, Carson had so much heart and thr man only had eyes for his woman.
April 2, 2018
One of the most emotionally satisfying stories I have ever read. Not only do the sparks between Carson and Sadie fly off the pages, the genuine depth of love that Carson and Sadie had for each other that was never lost was inspiring. As second chance stories go, this one's uniqueness is unparalleled in creating an overall satisfaction as the story's theme unfolds.
The characters brought a depth of believability and a comfortable colorful nature, creating another facet to the story which made is easy to read it in one sitting...and with an ending that will honestly leave you with a sigh and a smile.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
The characters brought a depth of believability and a comfortable colorful nature, creating another facet to the story which made is easy to read it in one sitting...and with an ending that will honestly leave you with a sigh and a smile.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
July 8, 2018
Kindly provided with an ARC via Netgally in exchange for an honest review.......
3.5 Stars from me . The blurb had me interested but unfortunately I got a little tired of hearing Carson and Sadie NOT getting over their past. For me it was Sadie who got under my skin. I get that she is an independent women and values her goals and being in control of her life, but sheesh lighten up a bit.
I felt she still crucified Carson for him NOT taking HER ambitions seriously enough and putting HER needs and career first. Oh diddums !!!!
Obviously for every couple, life has to be give and take, I just think these two characters were both too driven and for me that saying holds true.......oil and water don't mix. Carson and Sadie are oil and water, they don't complement each other, they could be poured into a beaker wanting to be one liquid but ultimately they will never become one. They will always stay two separate liquids trying to co-exist, pretending to be one mix. Lord Donna shut it now with the chemistry analogizes.
Moving back to the story, despite the whole Sadie having to help Carson and his team's image, she still has a major beef all those years later. That really comes across in their tale. There was a reason these two didn't work out the first time. I personally thought that those reasons had really never altered, the individuals both just have aged. I just couldn't grasp the whole - your the one and I won't give up on us. We are meant to be. What the hell ?. Where's that attitude come from several years later ?. Narr, I am just not buying what your selling love. It's not long lost love realizing that you can not live without that one magical person that got away. Its more of a case of I've had years trying out and sampling others and they are all meh, so I think I'll try with you again. Cynical but that's what I felt from their story.
Not the worst read, just frustrating (if you've not figured out my feelings from my review ;0)).
Many thanks to Kara and Netgalley for the opportunity x
Later peeps xx
3.5 Stars from me . The blurb had me interested but unfortunately I got a little tired of hearing Carson and Sadie NOT getting over their past. For me it was Sadie who got under my skin. I get that she is an independent women and values her goals and being in control of her life, but sheesh lighten up a bit.
I felt she still crucified Carson for him NOT taking HER ambitions seriously enough and putting HER needs and career first. Oh diddums !!!!
Obviously for every couple, life has to be give and take, I just think these two characters were both too driven and for me that saying holds true.......oil and water don't mix. Carson and Sadie are oil and water, they don't complement each other, they could be poured into a beaker wanting to be one liquid but ultimately they will never become one. They will always stay two separate liquids trying to co-exist, pretending to be one mix. Lord Donna shut it now with the chemistry analogizes.
Moving back to the story, despite the whole Sadie having to help Carson and his team's image, she still has a major beef all those years later. That really comes across in their tale. There was a reason these two didn't work out the first time. I personally thought that those reasons had really never altered, the individuals both just have aged. I just couldn't grasp the whole - your the one and I won't give up on us. We are meant to be. What the hell ?. Where's that attitude come from several years later ?. Narr, I am just not buying what your selling love. It's not long lost love realizing that you can not live without that one magical person that got away. Its more of a case of I've had years trying out and sampling others and they are all meh, so I think I'll try with you again. Cynical but that's what I felt from their story.
Not the worst read, just frustrating (if you've not figured out my feelings from my review ;0)).
Many thanks to Kara and Netgalley for the opportunity x
Later peeps xx
March 16, 2019
Thanks again NetGalley for another fun sports story romance to read and review.
Carson and Sadie come from a small town in Alabama where football means everything. High School sweethearts, Carson thought he had it all the college scholarship and the girl of his dreams. Sadie loved Carson but wanted more than to just be that small town wife. She wanted her own independence and the boy she loved. Leaving Carson was the hardest thing she ever did. Now Sadie has the dream job and is having to return home for the first time since losing Carson. Will she be able to handle seeing him and knowing he isn't hers? I enjoyed reading this book. It was a 3.5 star read for me. I liked the storyline and how much Carson loved Sadie. I was shocked by how horrible the town was to her and that Carson had no clue the way they treated her after their breakup. Her friends were great side characters and gave the story some funny moments. I would recommend this book to my girlfriends to read. It was a nice light romance something to enjoy and take your mind off of things for the day.
Merged review:
This was a great second chance love story. Carson and Sadie were high school sweethearts who went separate ways after graduating. This was not Carson's choice and when the chance to reconnect six years later he jumped on it. I love how Carson was with Sadie and made her come out of her shell. There was a lot that had happened to Sadie when her and Carson broke up due to the fact he was their towns golden boy. Carson didn't know she was treated any different and was very surprised to hear. I really enjoyed reading this and would love to read a book on Ty, Carson's best friend.
May 2, 2025
This book was a quick and easy second chance romance read but very good. I loved the main characters but it also had a wide variety of side characters that I would be interested in reading about. Carson Savage was the typical quarterback jock but he wasn't the over the top arrogant jerk, he was actually very sweet and caring but still very masculine. Sadie Reynolds was the typical heartbroken heroine that just couldn't seem to move past her first true love. She tried to move on but she kept comparing everyone to Carson, she was also still jaded because of the small town they came from. Being from a small town from the south I greatly appreciated that the author hit the nail on the head and some may think Sadie is being too dramatic or crazy but small town life is very tiring and exhausting on everyone because you are always under a microscope no matter who you are or what you do, but if you come from a well respected family or have serious potential in life like Carson its intensified even more so. Also I loved that the author didn't try to force accents or southern sayings, I've read books that where based in the south and some I couldn't finish because it was like the author just had to put so many yalls and sweeties to prove the characters where southern. Overall this was a great read like I said it was quick but it kept my interest the whole time.
May 22, 2018
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book via Netgalley.
It was a pleasant surprise. My first book from this author and i’ll look forward for more.
Second-chance romance story, the blurb did sound interesting for me: the heroine dumped the h, and not the other way!
They were not celibate those years apart, she did have some bf and dates, and H also did have some (you know the drill: professional athlete and man-whore...). They were celibate after they have met again.
There wasnt OP scenes. No cheating. There sure was some drama o suspense...
I liked it a lot.
Merged review:
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book via Netgalley.
It was a pleasant surprise. My first book from this author and i’ll look forward for more.
Second-chance romance story, the blurb did sound interesting for me: the heroine dumped the h, and not the other way!
They were not celibate those years apart, she did have some bf and dates, and H also did have some (you know the drill: professional athlete and man-whore...). They were celibate after they have met again.
There wasnt OP scenes. No cheating. There sure was some drama o suspense...
I liked it a lot.
It was a pleasant surprise. My first book from this author and i’ll look forward for more.
Second-chance romance story, the blurb did sound interesting for me: the heroine dumped the h, and not the other way!
They were not celibate those years apart, she did have some bf and dates, and H also did have some (you know the drill: professional athlete and man-whore...). They were celibate after they have met again.
There wasnt OP scenes. No cheating. There sure was some drama o suspense...
I liked it a lot.
Merged review:
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of this book via Netgalley.
It was a pleasant surprise. My first book from this author and i’ll look forward for more.
Second-chance romance story, the blurb did sound interesting for me: the heroine dumped the h, and not the other way!
They were not celibate those years apart, she did have some bf and dates, and H also did have some (you know the drill: professional athlete and man-whore...). They were celibate after they have met again.
There wasnt OP scenes. No cheating. There sure was some drama o suspense...
I liked it a lot.
April 18, 2018
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) This was a sweet second chance book and I really liked it. This is a new author for me but I will definitely be reading her again.. We meet Sadie a successful PR rep, she has a problem of letting go of trusting others. Her best friends are trying to help her with this, but they haven't been really successful. Sadie is contacted to work for her ex-boyfriends team to clean up the teams image, and even though she really does not want to return to her hometown she does. Here comes Carson, who after seven years has never forgotten Sadie and knew he should have never let go. When Carson sees Sadie she is more beautiful than ever and he is going to do everything in his power to bring her back home and give them another chance..It was heartwarming and I liked how even though he never forgot her or her him I appreciated that it wasn't those, I love but she never slept with anyone else and he admitted he wasn't a saint...Hope we get a Ty book and/or Barbi. Enjoy!
April 17, 2018
This book is all about a second chance on doing things right.
You will fall in love with this story from the beginning to the end. Without giving a lot away. If you love sports story This for you.
You will fall in love with this story from the beginning to the end. Without giving a lot away. If you love sports story This for you.
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