Librarian's note: Previously published as Tackled & Pinned Hard
Tristan Thorne is at the top of his game. He’s one of the most sought-after sports agents in the industry, but he continues to pick the athletes that cause the most trouble and need the most direction. Something Tristan has little patience for, especially when his number one client steals his girlfriend without any effort. As Tristan continues to land contracts of the top athletes the competition heats up, in and out of the bedroom. But Tristan isn’t the only alpha getting action. So are his top clients.
Under Contract contains Drake, Parker and Ryder, three standalone, full-length sports romance, bad boy novels that are light on sports and heavy on steamy romance.
Under Contract was previously published as Tackled & Pinned Hard. It contains three full-length, standalone sports romance novels with no cheating, a HEA and no cliffhanger!
Tristan Thorne is at the top of his game. He’s one of the most sought-after sports agents in the industry, but he continues to pick the athletes that cause the most trouble and need the most direction. Something Tristan has little patience for, especially when his number one client steals his girlfriend without any effort. As Tristan continues to land contracts of the top athletes the competition heats up, in and out of the bedroom. But Tristan isn’t the only alpha getting action. So are his top clients.
Under Contract contains Drake, Parker and Ryder, three standalone, full-length sports romance, bad boy novels that are light on sports and heavy on steamy romance.
Under Contract was previously published as Tackled & Pinned Hard. It contains three full-length, standalone sports romance novels with no cheating, a HEA and no cliffhanger!
A SEXY, CAPTIVATING READ!!! Title: Tackled & Pinned Hard Author: Ellie Danes and Katie Kyler Series: The Player Card Series Designation: Book 3 of Series, Full-Length Standalone New Adult Sports Romance, NO Cliffhanger Reading Platform: Kindle Edition My Rating: Four Deliciously Sexy Stars**** Another fabulous addition to The Player Card Series and I loved it! I've been an Ellie Danes fan since she began her career several years ago and try to never miss any of her new releases, but this series, in particular, really piqued my interest. I've always been fascinated by professional athletes, whether they are men or women. The amount of time, effort, focus, training, sacrifice, and dedication these individuals devote to their careers is mind-blowing. I've always enjoyed sports.... of any kind but football, baseball, mixed martial arts and especially MMA fighters are my favorites. I've also been intrigued by the sports agencies who manage the careers of these athletes and that's the basis for this entire series. Each release in The Player Card Series is a full-length standalone story featuring a professional athlete signing with the Thorne Enterprises Sports Agency founded and managed by Tristan Thorne and his very capable staff. Of course, the primary focus of each book is one athlete signing with Thorne Enterprises and along the way, finding the love of his life with the story revolving around the challenges each couple encounter as a result of their professional career as well as their cocky attitudes. And we all know, the one thing these bad boys never lack is self-confidence. Tackled and Pinned Hard is the third release of the series and features panty-melting-hot MMA fighter Ryder Rollins and beautiful aspiring fashion designer Zoey Marous. I was immediately smitten with both protagonists, and I think they're my favorites of the series so far. The narrative is fast-paced, easy to follow and beautifully written in the first person with multiple perspectives. It not only has points of view from Ryder and Zoey, but also has an occasional perspective from Tristan Thorne, the founder and primary owner of Thorne Enterprises. This really gives the book that extra something allowing the reader an inside look at what these agencies do for their clients and it's absolutely fascinating! Tristan Thorne is quite an intriguing character himself and although he's a secondary player in all three books, he is still a major part of all three stories. The dialogue is smart, snappy, and flows effortlessly. But my favorite element of this steamy love story is, without a doubt, the characters. They are captivating, fascinating, engaging, relatable and downright sexy. Zoey is not only beautiful, but also intelligent, independent, career driven, hard working, and determined to make her own way in the world. I fell in love with her drive and determination! She tries so hard to fight her attraction to Ryder, fearing a relationship with him would interfere with the dreams she has for her future, but we all know, the heart wants what it wants and never listens to reason. And Ryder... OMG! He's handsome, dedicated and also very career driven but he's also a cocky bad boy player... or, at least, he was until he meets Zoey. These two are both extremely strong characters but could not have been more perfectly suited for each other. Their attraction was immediate, their interaction captivating, their sexual chemistry smoking hot, and their passion undeniable. I loved every single minute of it. I was riveted to my ereader from the first page until the last. I sniffed, snorted and raged through the entire book. There were quite a few times I wanted to strangle both of them but by the end, I was happy, satisfied and well entertained.
Did I like this book? No, I loved it! But if I loved it so much, then why only give four stars? Good question! Because there were quite a few little boo-boos which could have easily been corrected with a good edit. There was one not so minor mistake which did distract me somewhat. The book is written with entire chapters devoted to a single perspective from either Ryder, Zoey or Tristan, so in the middle of Chapter 29, which was designated as Tristan's chapter, suddenly changes to Ryder's pov without starting a new chapter, I was a little confused until I realized what had happened. I'm not trying to be ugly nor critical but I am honest and can not in good conscience give it five stars, although I really did love the story and the characters. Admittedly, it's a fantastic bargain at only 99 cents, especially since this edition also includes the first two books of the series, Drake(Book 1) and Parker(Book 2), as well as the complete Crossed Heart Series by Ellie Danes. And these were not excerpts or teasers, it's the books in their entirety. So, it's definitely a steal but I believe in being totally honest in my reviews, which brings me to my second question. Would I recommend this book? You bet and I am, even with the mistakes, but only for adult readers since it does contain some naughty language and steamy dreamy and very explicit sex! Will I read this author again! Absolutely! This is not the first collaboration between Ellie Danes and Katie Kyler. They are both very talented and do a remarkable job together. I very much look forward to their next release! And finally, was I entertained? Completely! Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
Ryder Rollins has the talent, skill, and drive to move into the cage for the televised higher profile fights with the big name fighters but he just needs a break to get there. Winning the upcoming fight in Vegas is just the opportunity he needs to gain recognition and attract the attention of the right people. So far, he's undefeated and this win could be his big break... and it is! Tristan Thorne wants to add a new branch for MMA fighters to his agency and has asked Ryder to join his stable of high-profile clients which is exactly what Ryder needs to get a shot at a championship bout. But what Ryder doesn't need is a distraction, especially when it comes in the form of gorgeous Zoey Marous. But, the heart wants what the heart wants and Ryder simply can't resist approaching the beautiful stranger on a winning streak at the craps table in Vegas. After only one spectacular night with the lovely aspiring fashion designer Zoey Marous, Ryder suddenly realizes for the first time in his life, he wants more than his usual hookups and one night stands. But with each of them living in different cities, how could a relationship ever be possible for them, especially when both are determined to fight for their dreams? As the old saying goes, where there's a will there's a way but will that be possible for Ryder and Zoey? Can they somehow overcome life's obstacles, which includes a vindictive ex, and find a way to be together while achieving their dreams? We'll see!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. So this is another installment in the "Player Card Series". While I usually like longer stories because they allow you to get a better picture of the characters, I felt this one was dragged out and could have lost some of what seemed like repetitive scenarios. Zoey and Ryder both have career paths to which they are committed. They meet in Vegas, start a fling, and feel a connection, but they live in different cities. Zoey feels a long distance romance will not work (even though it seems it is not that long of a train ride away) and Ryder tries to convince her otherwise. I admit the characters have a good chemistry, the sex scenes are steamy, and abundant and the MMA storyline was interesting. However, most of the time Ryder is the one portrayed as realizing he is in love and that Zoey completes him. Then one misunderstood scenario and he gives up? Goes ballistic? I didn't quite get that. =[. Based on that, the story was ok for me - I preferred the first two books in the series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Tackled & Pinned Hard by Ellie Danes is a Sports Romance
MMA Fighter Ryder Rollins in on a roll in Vegas ... he has the career making fight of his life ... Sports agent Tristan Thorne wants to represent him and help him make millions of dollars ... but the thing that puts a smile on his face is the beautiful woman he met. Fashion designer wannabe Zoey Marous is in Vegas for a fashion show. Zoey meets a handsome man at the Blackjack table and they hook up but she isn't interested in anything more because she doesn't want to be hurt. Ryder can't stop thinking about Zoey and after a bit of Facebook stalking to figure out places she frequented, headed to TipTop Deli in New York to wait for Zoey to show up. Zoey is shocked when she sees Ryder but he's able to charm her into giving him a chance. But agreeing to be together is the easy part ... Zoey's cheating ex-boyfriend Peter misses her and wants her back. Ryder thinks Zoey was cheating on him when he sees Peter kissing Zoey and believes the lies Peter tells him. Ryder is heartbroken and flies to Vegas to to get drunk and forget for a while. When Zoey finds out that Ryder's in Vegas, she flies to Vegas to clear things up. Will Zoey and Ryder have their HEA?
Tackled & Pinned Hard is action-packed, suspenseful, sweet and steamy. Ellie Danes has paired an exciting story with engaging characters for a book that's a page-turner. This book is a must read.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
I enjoyed this story! I liked the characters and the fact that we get to know them well throughout the story. Zoey and Ryder meet in Vegas after one of his fights. Zoey has no idea that Ryder is a fighter at first. They meet and start talking at a craps table. I love how Ryder is a gentlemen and he wants to get to know Zoey but doesn't take her immediately to bed. He takes her out the next day and she finds out he was one of the fighters at the fight the night before. She isn't happy about it because he didn't tell her even though they talked about the fights. I liked how we got to see the relationship develop along with the characters. They both had some growing to do in order for their relationship to work. Things moved at a really good pace for me. It fit the story and I got plenty of details without it being too much. The sex is explicit and fits the characters and the story. I was engaged in the story the whole time and read the book in one sitting. I wanted to figure out how they were going to work everything that continued to be thrown in their paths out. Their isn't a lot of violence in this book and things aren't graphic really when Ryder does fight in the cage. We get enough details to know exactly what is going on but it's not overboard. It's more about the training and Ryder and Zoey figuring out how their lives fit together. I really enjoyed the book. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Ellie has written a unique MMA book, she incorporated two couples in her storyline. You would think that too many characters would take away from the main ones but, it just made it that much more intense. I loved Ryder and Zoey together as a couple. They were the perfect match! Ryder was surrounded by people who protected and loved him. His dad was his manager and protector with everything MMA. His friends from the gym also looked out for his well being. Zoey didn't care for men beating each other up, so when her best friend Annette took her to a MMA fight with her boyfriend she surprisely joined them. Tristan was a manager for a MMA company and Amy was his right hand woman. They were a pleasant addition to the storyline. Amy was a sassy, strong go to woman for Tristan's clients in the MMA world. This book grabbed my attention immediately and I loved every page of it. I would strongly recommend this book to any lover of MMA genre. It was highly enjoyable and nail biter. Who doesn't love to read about a hot, sexy, muscled fighter!
Ryder Rollins is an MMA fighter who is about to make it big. He is undefeated and wins his match in Vegas, which attracts a sports agent, Tristan (and his company). Ryder finds himself on a high from the fight and the attention when he goes into the casino floor where he spots Zoey. He instantly wants to be around her and continue to hear her laugh. He joins her at the craps table and continue to talk. They are attracted to each other, but Zoey is no one night stand and for some reason Ryder wants so much more from her than he knew possible. After having a great time, Zoey decides she needs to end this before she gets any deeper and Ryder ends up hurting her. Ryder tries to go on with life, but can't without seeing her and making his feelings and intentions known. He finds her in New York. They agree to see each other and see where this leads. Can Zoey get away from insecurities after her ex cheated on her and handle Ryder's fame and fan base? Will Ryder handle living in a different state while training?
This is a great story. It has everyday life, up and coming fighter, strong females and steamy scenes. I voluntarily received an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily ARC for honest review . This story about MMA fighter Ryder Rollins , who lives in Connecticut. Tristan , the owner of THORNE ENTERPRISES, with his best friend/business associate Bruce Elliott and Tristan's assistant Amy Nolan. He wants Ryder under contract with his company. Ryder's father is his manager. Zoey Marous works inclothing boutique , she wants to be a designer. Zoey, best friend Annette and her a**hat boyfriend Rick. There is fashion convention and MMA MATCHES , going on in Las Vegas. Zoey meet Ryder , the first time in casino. They is instant attractions. They watch THE BELLAGIO FOUNTAINS. I love and recommend this book to everyone 😆 😙 The strong structure storyline and well developed characters and supporting characters brilliant exquisitely well written. The story is drama rom-com emotional rollar coaster action sizzling chemistry strength of character captivating hostilities betrayal hot streamy sex and captivating from start to finish 💋 💖 . I really don't read MMA books , but sometimes an author like Ellie Danes can surprise you .
Ryder is an up and coming MMA fighter who is about to make it big. He has a great match in Vegas and attracts the attention of Tristian and his crew of promoters. Ryder doesn't care much about being promoted because he just wants to fight. In bar after his fight, he sees Zoey and falls instantly for her. Zoey and her friends in Vegas to help her get over the end of a bad relationship. Zoey is super attracted to Ryder and decides a fling is just what she needs. After spending a couple of days together , both have strong feelings for each other. Zoey is following her head knowing that their relationship has many obstacles to overcome while Ryder just wants Zoey. This is a good long story. I had problems making it through the whole thing but it would be a lot better after reading the other books in the series. I voluntarily received a copy of this story and this is my honest review.
This is the first book I have read by Ellie Danes and I really enjoyed her writing style. While not a great fan of fighting or MMA I found that I was intrigued when the book goes into the behind the scenes and the effort required, like all professional athletes, to maintain a healthy body and keep it in top physical condition. This book is a love story first and foremost and the relationship between Ryder and Zoey progresses slowly from the beginning until the happy ever after ending. Of course there are lots of emotional ups and downs with one side or the other jumping in to misconstrue something the other has done. Tristan does not help either and often fans the fire of discontent and jealousy. I would certainly recommend it to lovers of sports fiction and a must have for romance readers. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
What happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas. Finally reaching the level of MMA that he has dreamed of, Ryder thinks everything is exactly where is should be. Zoey wishes to be an everyday clothes designer for women and doesn't have time for a man. Instant attraction between the two and Ryder becomes determined to keep her in his life. Will Zoey be able to overcome her fear of Ryder being hurt? Will Ryder be able to prove to her that he isn't her ex?
Hot read. Honestly loved how Ryder is this macho fighter, but when it comes to Zoey hes a cuddly teddy bear. Could side with Zoey when it came to her insecurities and was proud of her for not giving up in the end. Love how these two are opposites, but they compliment each other! Great book and definitely recommend to MMA Romance lovers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I love a sports based romance and this one of a strong and tough MMA fighter is certainly one that ticks all the boxes! I enjoyed Ryder and Zoey's POV in this book as it allowed us to see what each of them were thinking as we tackle the growing love they realise they have for each other. The fact these two fight their knowledge of this love and find that their careers and separate lives are a huge obstacle, it's frustrating at times to read. There is more than enough in this fast paced story to keep you engaged and cheering for these two likable characters, and the sex scenes add some very hot and sexy moments!. I guess my only critique is that it seemed this will they, won't they became a bit torturous, especially after they realise there's more to it than a one night stand in Vegas!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reading copy of this book
Excellent sports MMA romance. At first I wasn't positive, due to the title, of what sport this was about. Ryder is an up and coming fighter with dreams of making it big. After a surprising end to his right he gets signed with an agent, Tristan. Zoey, came into Ryders life suddenly. They both have goals yet enjoy each other's company. The complicated trick especially when living in different states is now to work on a realtionship. Zoey has been hurt in the past and wants to design her own clothing line without the stress of a relationship. The story has ups and downs as well as unexpected surprises. Throughout the entire book Ms. Dane built her characters so the reader can see their point of view and expectations. I received a complementary copy of this book and chose to write a review. I look forward to reading future books by this author.
Tackled & Pinned Hard is Ryder's and Zoey's story and I have to say, they have become my favorite couple. Their story is so relatable and what could easily happen to a couple.
Ellie Danes and Katie Kyler came up with two characters that are humble, and able to overcome their insecurities, (mind you not painlessly, but still!), both are down to earth and so lovable. Their chemistry was off the charts, and they clicked just right.
This novel is lighter in the sports, but still satisfying for those who love sports romances. The plot is fast-paced, well-written with characters that are complex and sex scenes that are smoking hot! It drew me in, and I could not put it down. It is one of the books I will be reading again sometime in the future. I highly recommend it.
I voluntary reviewed a free advance copy of this book.
Ryder is an up and coming MMA fighter who has no desire for a serious relationship...until he meets Zoey. Zoey is a fashion designer who swore off men after her ex cheated on her. They meet while they are both in Vegas for work...Ryder is smitten from the get go, but Zoey is a little cautious because of her cheating ex! Their relationship endures many personal insecurities as well as having to deal with living in different states, misinformed agents and crazy ex's...all of that makes for a great story! Also love the details that are covered during the MMA fight scenes...great job! I highly recommend reading this book! I'm looking forward to reading more books by Ellie Danes! I received an ARC for an honest review!
This is the first book by Ellie Danes I've read. At first, I was thrown when Tristan's POV first appeared in the book, but gradually got accustomed to it.
I enjoyed this simply because I love it when a guy loves hard, and Ryder loves hard! He's not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve for Zoey. Initially, Zoey is scared by the depth of emotion and the pace of the relationship, but soon realises that any relationship's success depends on the amount of work put into it.
Definitely, I would recommend this book. I also can't wait to read the others.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Ryder is at the top of his game as an MMA fighter. He's about to hit the big time, and he can't afford any distractions, especially someone like Zoey, who makes him forget why he was a player. She makes him want stability and love. This was a really good sports romance, with good characters. I liked the varying POVs to see what was going through their minds, and I especially love how much they were into each other. I did think there were some knee-jerk moments they could have resolved a little sooner, but it's part of the tug of war of love. The sex scenes felt a little rushed, but overall I thought this was a solid MMA romance. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
This was a good solid read, it was multi person perspective and was an enjoyable book to read, the story was well written and the cast of characters were fun and entertaining, there were some steamy scenes but they only added to the plotto make it more enjoyable. This book had a bit of everything, a little action a lot of love and all the ups and downs that go with it. if you enjoy an alpha hottie trying to win the love of his life then I am sure you will enjoy this book, It is a relatively long read about 7 hours give or take so a good weekend read.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review.
I am voluntarily reviewing Tackled & Pinned Hard by Ellie Danes for receiving an Advanced Reader Copy.
This is a new to me author and a great book. It just proves that both men and women have insecurities that they need to deal with and that they need to be up front and honest about them in order to be able to get past them. Not always what you see with your own eyes is what actually is going on and if you don't talk about it you will just assume the worse and usually it is wrong. That usually ends up with both of you being hurt and it could be avoided. Loved the way this book was written and they way the insecurities were portrayed.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and voluntarily decided to review it
Ryder is riding high in his career as an MMA fighter, he is going somewhere and cannot afford to get sidetracked. Enter Zoey, gorgeous, sassy and a real threat to Ryder's career, she is tempting him with the idea of things that this player has never wanted before.
With fantastic chemistry between the pair, the book has a mix of romance, steam, action and sass, this well written story is told in dual POV.
I really enjoyed this story, and I will be sure to read more by Ellie Danes
This is a very well-written story with a cast of characters that are developed and offer interesting relationship possibilities. An accidental meeting brings Ryder and Zoey together. They have great chemistry but they have their own careers and a long-distance romance is not that appealing. I liked that Ryder acknowledged his feelings and didn't want to give up on her. He fought hard for love just like in the ring. The storyline line includes a lot of information on MMA fighting which was interesting to me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book....
Now this story had me hooked from the very beginning...I loved the alternating point of views. The plot was interesting. The storyline flowed smoothly throughout. I thought the characters were well-developed and easily relatable. I loved how Ryder didn't stifle Zoey's dreams while meeting his. Ryder can come tackle & pin me hard any day! I will be adding this one to my personal Kindle Library. I can't wait to read more from Ellie Danes!
A tough guy that isn't afraid to show his softer side and to go for what he wants. He knows she is the one for him, but he has to convince her of that an that their relationship can work. She finally accepts the truth for what it is, but her ex might have to say something about that. His world comes crashing down after his highest high in his career so he goes hiding. She along with her friends have to find him and set the record straight. The truth comes out and true love shines. I absolutely loved this book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Review Copy of this book.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. This book is amazing - the whole series is. I like it very much when the point of view is alternating and in this book there is three povs. The agent of Drake - Tristan - is also in the book. The main characters are very well described and the storyline is very exciting. Loved the chemistry and the way you feel you know the characters. Sweet romance about people who has to let the life gets its way. Absolutely well written and worth time reading!
Multiple POVs. I honestly thought this would be about one couple, but it turned out to be about the hero, heroine, and then his manager's POV. You may love this. I just did not care to read about the manager's love interest in Amy.
First, I have no idea what was going on when I started reading the manager's POV. Let's stick with one POV before more is thrown in.
You may love it. Maybe I was just not in the mood and just wanted a simple romance with some angst so I did not care for all the POVs. Reading is subjective. I guess I just did not care for this writing style.
This is the first book I have read by this author so I didn't know what it would be like boy I was in fall one hell of a surprise. Right from the first page I was well and truly in to this book. It had a fantastic plot and you really felt like you were following Ryder and Zoey relationship with them. This is definitely one that will have you laughing and crying with them. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Oh this one is my favorite from the series. I love this series, each book was an amazing ride and enjoyed every moment. But this one took the ticket for me. I love these characters the most. I felt their love and felt their pain. I devoured this book and but enjoyed every moment. And lets not leave out how hot and steamy these two would get! I was so excited to get pieces of Amy and Tristan in this book. Over all, this story is amazing and I couldn't put this down!
Ryder is an MMA fighter, he is aiming high with no distractions and he is so focused on that when he meets Zoey who is gorgeous, smart and great company she is tempting him with things that he has never wanted or thought of before. There is fantastic chemistry between them and the story is a combination of romance, action with so much more to it and it's told in dual POV which I really enjoyed.
Another fabulous read by Ellie Danes. This book is one that you will not want to put down. When you want something bad enough, you put your whole self into getting what you want. Ryder is no different. He no only wants the fight, he now wants Zoey. This book is very well written, there is no cheating and you are going to want to tell your friends to read it as well. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
This is one of those books that the story is told from each characters point of view. One chapter was Drake, then the next was Tristan, then the next was Any and the next was... I got so confused as to who's point of view i was reading I wanted to scream. I made it through the first book, mostly, and then said at screw it, this is giving me a headache. I didn't bother with the rest.