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A Fake Marriage #2
Marrying an Athlete
Librarian's Note: This is an alternate cover edition and title for ASIN B07D4263Z1
Anna Short’s life has been in a slump ever since her boss and boyfriend—who happened to be the same person—dumped her. Now forced to work at a coffee shop, she's pretty sure her life can't go any lower. Enter Michael: her best friend McKenna’s older brother and life-long crush.
Michael Jones is the life of the party. As a Defenseman for the New York Rangers, he's always had his pick of women and friends. When he mistakenly proposes to the Mayor's daughter at a party one night, he hightails it out of New York before the media storm hits. He drives to McKenna’s house where he finds her in emotional shambles. Grateful for the distraction her problems give him, he jumps head first into finding a solution.
When McKenna begs them to fake a marriage so they can go with her to a counseling resort designed to help fix her failing one, Anna and Michael agree. After all, the drunken kiss they shared two years ago was definitely in the past. But when they decide to make it their mission to bring McKenna and her husband together, they begin to realize just how good of a team they really are.
Anna Short’s life has been in a slump ever since her boss and boyfriend—who happened to be the same person—dumped her. Now forced to work at a coffee shop, she's pretty sure her life can't go any lower. Enter Michael: her best friend McKenna’s older brother and life-long crush.
Michael Jones is the life of the party. As a Defenseman for the New York Rangers, he's always had his pick of women and friends. When he mistakenly proposes to the Mayor's daughter at a party one night, he hightails it out of New York before the media storm hits. He drives to McKenna’s house where he finds her in emotional shambles. Grateful for the distraction her problems give him, he jumps head first into finding a solution.
When McKenna begs them to fake a marriage so they can go with her to a counseling resort designed to help fix her failing one, Anna and Michael agree. After all, the drunken kiss they shared two years ago was definitely in the past. But when they decide to make it their mission to bring McKenna and her husband together, they begin to realize just how good of a team they really are.
184 pages, ebook
First published May 15, 2018
574 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Anne-Marie Meyer
113 books3,507 followersAnne-Marie Meyer is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives south of the Twin Cities in MN. She spends her days with her knight in shining armor, four princes, and a baby princess.
When she's not running after her kids, she's dreaming up romantic stories. She loves to take her favorite moments in the books and movies she loves and tries to figure out a way to make them new and fresh.
Join her newsletter at anne-mariemeyer.com
When she's not running after her kids, she's dreaming up romantic stories. She loves to take her favorite moments in the books and movies she loves and tries to figure out a way to make them new and fresh.
Join her newsletter at anne-mariemeyer.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
May 25, 2018
This is my first book by this author. It's part of the Destined for Love, Resorts series and the Fake Marriage series.
Anna Short is at the lowest point of her life. She made the mistake of getting romantically involved with her boss, so when he dumped her for his assistant, she not only lost her boyfriend, she also lost her job. Now, even though she has a degree she's working at a coffee shop selling overpriced drinks. Take note ladies.
Anna has been in love with her best friend's (McKenna) older brother, Michael, since forever. She feels that "she's just his kid sister's best friend." Besides, Michael is known as a playboy and her heart is still mending from her latest breakup. Unbeknownst to Anna, Michael is in love with her, but he's messed up so many times he feels he's not good enough for her.
Because Anna and Michael want to help out his sister, McKenna, who's having marital problems, they agree to pose as a married couple and go to a marital retreat in Bora Bora with McKenna and her husband. This works out great for Michael because he's screwed up again (it seems to me this guy really shouldn't drink alcohol), and he wants to get out of town to avoid the media frenzy which is sure to come soon.
Fake engagement/marriage stories can lead to a lot of fun interactions between the couple and some embarrassing moments. This story does not disappoint in that regard. There's a hilarious interaction that takes place in the therapist office (remember this is a place for people who need help with their marriage), not to mention that Anna and Michael have to share a cabin with just the one bed.
I liked the premise of the story and all the characters but got tired of the two main characters continue to state the same things over and over. Michael repeatedly says he's messed up too much and he's not good enough for Anna, and she keeps saying that he's a playboy and he'll never see her as anything other than McKenna's best friend. I felt as if I was being beaten over the head with the same phrases since they were repeated over and over. That being said, I still enjoyed the book and thought it was a fun read.
On the positive side Michael is a funny guy and I loved the scene of them playing in the ocean, and really liked how they could joke around with each other.. The parts where he's jealous of Javier were funny and should've been a clue to Anna that he wanted to be more than just pals. I especially liked that there was an epilogue to the story and the writer didn't forget about McKenna and Sam, and everyone got their happy ending.
I highlighted a few things as I read. Anna's first description of Michael "All six-foot-three glorious inches of him stood there like a Greek statue. Just with clothes on." (Swoon)
When Anna says to Michael she can take care of herself, he remembers how many times he helped her get over ex-boyfriends, and has this thought "Her taste in men was about as refined as a McDonald's burger." 😂🍔
Anna's having a hard time looking at a shirtless Michael (I think I would have too) and asks him if doesn't believe in shirts. "In response Michael straightened, brought his arms up, flexed a few times. "These babies just hate to be confined." He leaned over and kissed one." I didn't know whether to laugh out loud or swoon. 💪
There was one scene I thought was hilarious but I won't spoil it for you. I think you'll know it when you read it, but I'll give you a hint--it's about two-thirds of the way in to the book.
Anna Short is at the lowest point of her life. She made the mistake of getting romantically involved with her boss, so when he dumped her for his assistant, she not only lost her boyfriend, she also lost her job. Now, even though she has a degree she's working at a coffee shop selling overpriced drinks. Take note ladies.
Anna has been in love with her best friend's (McKenna) older brother, Michael, since forever. She feels that "she's just his kid sister's best friend." Besides, Michael is known as a playboy and her heart is still mending from her latest breakup. Unbeknownst to Anna, Michael is in love with her, but he's messed up so many times he feels he's not good enough for her.
Because Anna and Michael want to help out his sister, McKenna, who's having marital problems, they agree to pose as a married couple and go to a marital retreat in Bora Bora with McKenna and her husband. This works out great for Michael because he's screwed up again (it seems to me this guy really shouldn't drink alcohol), and he wants to get out of town to avoid the media frenzy which is sure to come soon.
Fake engagement/marriage stories can lead to a lot of fun interactions between the couple and some embarrassing moments. This story does not disappoint in that regard. There's a hilarious interaction that takes place in the therapist office (remember this is a place for people who need help with their marriage), not to mention that Anna and Michael have to share a cabin with just the one bed.
I liked the premise of the story and all the characters but got tired of the two main characters continue to state the same things over and over. Michael repeatedly says he's messed up too much and he's not good enough for Anna, and she keeps saying that he's a playboy and he'll never see her as anything other than McKenna's best friend. I felt as if I was being beaten over the head with the same phrases since they were repeated over and over. That being said, I still enjoyed the book and thought it was a fun read.
On the positive side Michael is a funny guy and I loved the scene of them playing in the ocean, and really liked how they could joke around with each other.. The parts where he's jealous of Javier were funny and should've been a clue to Anna that he wanted to be more than just pals. I especially liked that there was an epilogue to the story and the writer didn't forget about McKenna and Sam, and everyone got their happy ending.
I highlighted a few things as I read. Anna's first description of Michael "All six-foot-three glorious inches of him stood there like a Greek statue. Just with clothes on." (Swoon)
When Anna says to Michael she can take care of herself, he remembers how many times he helped her get over ex-boyfriends, and has this thought "Her taste in men was about as refined as a McDonald's burger." 😂🍔
Anna's having a hard time looking at a shirtless Michael (I think I would have too) and asks him if doesn't believe in shirts. "In response Michael straightened, brought his arms up, flexed a few times. "These babies just hate to be confined." He leaned over and kissed one." I didn't know whether to laugh out loud or swoon. 💪
There was one scene I thought was hilarious but I won't spoil it for you. I think you'll know it when you read it, but I'll give you a hint--it's about two-thirds of the way in to the book.
May 19, 2018
Content: Clean (mild innuendo)
May 22, 2018
Anybody else love a good marriage of convenience story? I do! I think it's such a fun story plot that adds many twists and turns that I really get excited when I get the chance to read a novel with that plot. This one was definitely a fun one that added a great little twist to the reason behind a marriage of convenience.
Anna has been in love with her best friend McKenna's brother Michael for FOREVER! Little does she know, he loves her too! When McKenna asks them to come with her and her husband to Bora Bora to visit a marriage counseling resort they agree. But wait, there's a catch...they have to be hitched to go to this resort. So what does any best friend and loving brother do? Why, pretend to be married of course.
There are many misunderstandings and frustrations along the way but these two, Anna and Michael, they're perfect for each other. If only they'd get over their insecurities and just lay it all on the line. Can I say that a jealous Michael was a great way to get him really thinking about his true feelings for Anna and being truthful to himself.
I will say that Michael's character frustrated me a little bit because of his reasons why he couldn't be with Anna and tell her that he loved her. There were a few aspects of his character/reasonings that I would have liked clarified a little bit more in the story. But other than that, Michael was a dashing and somewhat devious(good devious-like finding ways to be with Anna devious) character. Again, jealous Michael was pretty fun to watch.
Anna had some different insecurities from her life experiences that had her doubting herself and I loved how Michael was able to slowly help her with those. Not completely fixed instantly but you could see that she was starting to gain more confidence and trust.
Fun read and my first by this author. I do have several of her books that I snagged as freebies from Amazon a while ago, time to dig them out of the confines of my Kindle and read them too! This is part of the Destination Love: Resorts collection. If you've been following the Destination Love series or not, this is the third collection to be released and a great group of authors. I'm ready to dive into the next one now.
Content: Clean. Some mild innuendos, some about a character being a player but nothing graphic and some in relation to characters being at a resort for married couples.
I received an ARC and was not required to review it. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Anna has been in love with her best friend McKenna's brother Michael for FOREVER! Little does she know, he loves her too! When McKenna asks them to come with her and her husband to Bora Bora to visit a marriage counseling resort they agree. But wait, there's a catch...they have to be hitched to go to this resort. So what does any best friend and loving brother do? Why, pretend to be married of course.
There are many misunderstandings and frustrations along the way but these two, Anna and Michael, they're perfect for each other. If only they'd get over their insecurities and just lay it all on the line. Can I say that a jealous Michael was a great way to get him really thinking about his true feelings for Anna and being truthful to himself.
I will say that Michael's character frustrated me a little bit because of his reasons why he couldn't be with Anna and tell her that he loved her. There were a few aspects of his character/reasonings that I would have liked clarified a little bit more in the story. But other than that, Michael was a dashing and somewhat devious(good devious-like finding ways to be with Anna devious) character. Again, jealous Michael was pretty fun to watch.
Anna had some different insecurities from her life experiences that had her doubting herself and I loved how Michael was able to slowly help her with those. Not completely fixed instantly but you could see that she was starting to gain more confidence and trust.
Fun read and my first by this author. I do have several of her books that I snagged as freebies from Amazon a while ago, time to dig them out of the confines of my Kindle and read them too! This is part of the Destination Love: Resorts collection. If you've been following the Destination Love series or not, this is the third collection to be released and a great group of authors. I'm ready to dive into the next one now.
Content: Clean. Some mild innuendos, some about a character being a player but nothing graphic and some in relation to characters being at a resort for married couples.
I received an ARC and was not required to review it. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
May 19, 2018
When it comes to love, Anna and Michael have scored a miss. Batting zero is no fun, but when fate swings your way the rewards can be marvelous. Marrying an Athlete debunks the stereotype of love, with humor, heart and romance. Meyer delights as she enlights with a tale of countless mistakes and ultimately getting it right.
May 18, 2018
What a darling story! One of my favorite tropes is a fake marriage and this one is extra special because of the past that Michael and Anna share. Michael is Anna's best friend's older brother, which is another favorite theme of mine. Could it get any better than this?!
What really sets this book apart is the fact that it's set on Bora Bora at a marriage counseling resort. In an effort to help their friend/sister, they agree to a fake marriage and the sparks instantly fly! I almost melted into a puddle a few different times. Being with a guy like Michael, past or no past, would intimate the socks off of me. He's very charismatic, sweet, and good-looking, but a total playboy, while Anna is so darling, innocent, and trusting.
I've been on a tropical kick lately and can't get enough of the warm, sunny beaches, but when a sweet romance is in the mix, you'd better believe that I couldn't put it down. Between the swoon that fairly leaps off the pages and the unreal blue water and white, powdery sand, the alternating insecurities and confidence of Michael and Anna, life is brought to these characters. They are delightfully flawed and I did not want it to end.
Content: mild+ swoony romance, some innuendo
*I received a copy, which did not influence my opinions*
What really sets this book apart is the fact that it's set on Bora Bora at a marriage counseling resort. In an effort to help their friend/sister, they agree to a fake marriage and the sparks instantly fly! I almost melted into a puddle a few different times. Being with a guy like Michael, past or no past, would intimate the socks off of me. He's very charismatic, sweet, and good-looking, but a total playboy, while Anna is so darling, innocent, and trusting.
I've been on a tropical kick lately and can't get enough of the warm, sunny beaches, but when a sweet romance is in the mix, you'd better believe that I couldn't put it down. Between the swoon that fairly leaps off the pages and the unreal blue water and white, powdery sand, the alternating insecurities and confidence of Michael and Anna, life is brought to these characters. They are delightfully flawed and I did not want it to end.
Content: mild+ swoony romance, some innuendo
*I received a copy, which did not influence my opinions*
May 19, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book very much. I believe it is the first by this author that I have read and it won't be the last. The story was a fairly quick read and enjoyable all the way through. It was a clean story with no sex or foul language. Just a sweet romance that was a pleasure to read.
Anna Short was McKenna's best friend. McKenna was married to Sam and they were having marriage trouble. McKenna convinced Anna and her brother, Michael, to go on a couple's retreat to Bora Bora with she and Sam to help her fix her marriage. McKenna, Michael and Anna had grown up together and had known each other for years. Anna had secretly been in love with Michael for years but she was convinced that he only thought of her as his little sister's best friend. Besides, Michael was a famous hockey player who had a new beautiful woman on his arm every night. She could never measure up to the beauties he was involved with. Michael, on the other hand, never felt worthy of Anna. He had always been a screw up and he didn't want to hurt her but the feelings he had for her kept changing and when he finally realized he loved her, it may be too late. Would this vacation help them to realize the feelings they had were real? Would they have the courage to finalize voice them to each other?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and I wholeheartedly offer my honest review.
Anna Short was McKenna's best friend. McKenna was married to Sam and they were having marriage trouble. McKenna convinced Anna and her brother, Michael, to go on a couple's retreat to Bora Bora with she and Sam to help her fix her marriage. McKenna, Michael and Anna had grown up together and had known each other for years. Anna had secretly been in love with Michael for years but she was convinced that he only thought of her as his little sister's best friend. Besides, Michael was a famous hockey player who had a new beautiful woman on his arm every night. She could never measure up to the beauties he was involved with. Michael, on the other hand, never felt worthy of Anna. He had always been a screw up and he didn't want to hurt her but the feelings he had for her kept changing and when he finally realized he loved her, it may be too late. Would this vacation help them to realize the feelings they had were real? Would they have the courage to finalize voice them to each other?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and I wholeheartedly offer my honest review.
May 21, 2018
I read this as part of the Destined for Love Resorts series, which is a good way of discovering authors that I have not read before. The resort in question is a couples retreat when childhood friends Anna and Michael agree to pretend to be married so they can go to the resort to support Michael's sister McKenna during her stay there.
A sweet story with a familiar plotline, girl loves best friends brother, he loves her but neither realising the others feelings. It may be familiar, but that does not make the story any less enjoyable. My only issue is with McKenna, who does not realise that a certain thing is happening to her(trying not to give spoilers!!) A clean charming book, just a few steamy kisses, a good way to while away a couple of hours.
I voluntarily agreed to read an advanced copy of this book.
A sweet story with a familiar plotline, girl loves best friends brother, he loves her but neither realising the others feelings. It may be familiar, but that does not make the story any less enjoyable. My only issue is with McKenna, who does not realise that a certain thing is happening to her(trying not to give spoilers!!) A clean charming book, just a few steamy kisses, a good way to while away a couple of hours.
I voluntarily agreed to read an advanced copy of this book.
May 18, 2018
Anne-Marie Meyer, Marrying an Athlete (#2 in both Resorts and Fake Marriage Series) - This is my first book by this author and I was happy with it. A quickly read, interesting little romance coming to full bloom between two people who are childhood and adult friends. All the characters are interesting, realistic and mature in their actions. But I did think it was strange that the friends didn't unpack; the stay is a week. I contacted the Destined For Love group to review their books. 4*
Destined For Love: Resorts - Having read the two other Destined For Love series: Europe and Mansions, I had to read this series, too. All the books from the Destined authors are well written, with interesting characters and realistic dialog, and intriguing storylines. The books are clean and don't have the annoying Stupid formula. (Characters act immature, don't communicate their feelings and problems while having sex all the time they're together: the Stupid formula.) These authors show that the plots can have suspense and intrigue without the stupidity.
Michelle Pennington, The Trust of a Billionaire (#1) - What a fun story! I fell in love with Hannah. She's one of the most interesting, fun, laid back but mature character I've discovered in a while. This is my first story by this author and I love it! The other four main characters were also interesting and fun, and two were very supportive and loving. It was heartwarming to see the effects of love on the three main characters. 5*
Destined For Love: Resorts - Having read the two other Destined For Love series: Europe and Mansions, I had to read this series, too. All the books from the Destined authors are well written, with interesting characters and realistic dialog, and intriguing storylines. The books are clean and don't have the annoying Stupid formula. (Characters act immature, don't communicate their feelings and problems while having sex all the time they're together: the Stupid formula.) These authors show that the plots can have suspense and intrigue without the stupidity.
Michelle Pennington, The Trust of a Billionaire (#1) - What a fun story! I fell in love with Hannah. She's one of the most interesting, fun, laid back but mature character I've discovered in a while. This is my first story by this author and I love it! The other four main characters were also interesting and fun, and two were very supportive and loving. It was heartwarming to see the effects of love on the three main characters. 5*
May 18, 2018
A good premise: Anna agrees to fake a marriage with her best friend McKenna’s brother, Michael, so they can accompany McKenna and her husband to a marriage counseling resort in Bora Bora.
I loved that they wanted to support her, but I had trouble getting behind Anna and Michael’s relationship. The lack of communication between them drove me crazy!
I loved that they wanted to support her, but I had trouble getting behind Anna and Michael’s relationship. The lack of communication between them drove me crazy!
July 8, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by Anne-Marie Meyer and the first one I’ve read in this series. What a super cute read! I always enjoy a story of fake marriages. There is chemistry, humor, and a whole lot of fun. It is a quick read that draws you in.
I found all the characters very likeable. Anna is a strong woman who does not want to get hurt again by Michael. She is loyal to her best friend and wants everyone to find happiness. Michael is a loveable stinker who runs from his problems just to create more. These two are perfect for each other and have great chemistry.
A great story of love and forgiveness. I cannot wait to read more by the author and this series. If you want a fun read, pick this one up!
*Please note I received a copy of this book. I was under no obligation to review and all opinions are my own.
I found all the characters very likeable. Anna is a strong woman who does not want to get hurt again by Michael. She is loyal to her best friend and wants everyone to find happiness. Michael is a loveable stinker who runs from his problems just to create more. These two are perfect for each other and have great chemistry.
A great story of love and forgiveness. I cannot wait to read more by the author and this series. If you want a fun read, pick this one up!
*Please note I received a copy of this book. I was under no obligation to review and all opinions are my own.
July 2, 2018
I found myself struggling to settle into this book. I had difficulty understanding the reasoning behind needing Michael and Anna to accompany McKenna and Sam to a marriage counseling retreat. The simple ploy that McKenna wanted them there does not wash. Since the entire plot rests on having Michael and Anna there as a fake married couple, I believe Ms. Meyer should have developed a more realistic opening. The scene where Michael gets down on a knee to publicly propose and present Anna with a ring well AFTER they had agreed to the fake marriage plan did not fit well with the story, given Michael’s desire to keep Daisy in the dark about this phony marriage. These plot weaknesses coupled with the total lack of planning on the part of Michael and Anna as to how they would they would carry out the ruse was so unrealistic as to be unbelievable.
Once past what I felt to be a disjointed and unrealistic beginning, Ms. Meyer reached her stride, and the story became much more to my liking. I became engrossed in the story after that. Editing errors including missing words, misidentifying characters, punctuation and grammar mistakes also detracted from this work. Naturally, I cannot agree with the sentiment expressed by the vast majority of reviewers, but a three-star award reflects my unbiased opinion of “Marrying an Athlete.”
Once past what I felt to be a disjointed and unrealistic beginning, Ms. Meyer reached her stride, and the story became much more to my liking. I became engrossed in the story after that. Editing errors including missing words, misidentifying characters, punctuation and grammar mistakes also detracted from this work. Naturally, I cannot agree with the sentiment expressed by the vast majority of reviewers, but a three-star award reflects my unbiased opinion of “Marrying an Athlete.”
June 1, 2018
Sweet Romance
This was an interesting plot, it had the usual crush on best friend's big brother, and pretending they're married, while acting like siblings, although both "secretly" in love with the other. I liked that they were helping Anna's best friend/Michael's sister (McKenna) who's dealing with infertility and a failing marriage with Sam. I really didn't like Javier and Anna's inability to see him for the creep he was. So many jumping to conclusions! I'm glad that they figured out how to be open with each other!
This was an interesting plot, it had the usual crush on best friend's big brother, and pretending they're married, while acting like siblings, although both "secretly" in love with the other. I liked that they were helping Anna's best friend/Michael's sister (McKenna) who's dealing with infertility and a failing marriage with Sam. I really didn't like Javier and Anna's inability to see him for the creep he was. So many jumping to conclusions! I'm glad that they figured out how to be open with each other!
October 10, 2019
Nice read
November 28, 2019
Not what I expected. Shallow and silly.
July 1, 2019
Obviously the “fake marriage” trope is very popular, so I predicated early-on while reading that several situations were going to happen (meaning that I wasn’t surprised or caught off-guard)…but that doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the book!
There was actually quite a bit that I DID like about the book. Such as: the “Rekindle Resort” (the name and everything about the resort was just great!), Anne-Marie’s wonderful descriptions (she definitely has a way with words), Michael (he had some really swoon-worthy moments), and the chemistry between our two main leads.
On the other hand, there were some parts of the story that I didn’t like as much (or at all). Such as: McKenna and Sam (I truly do understand that infertility can be a saddening burden, however, I felt like their problems concerning this weren’t resolved properly), Anna and Michael (while they had some serious chemistry going on, the repetitiveness of their mixed feelings was a tad bit frustrating…I also had a hard time connecting with them as individuals), and I wish that Michael’s hockey career had played a bigger part in the book (being that he is an athlete).
As far as content goes: there was some innuendo/suggestive content…no language though.
July 10, 2018
I enjoyed how we were reminded throughout the novel about the relationship shared by Michael and Anna in the past. It made it seem more believable that they were about to fall in love so quickly when there was already so much history between them.
I felt that the passionate thoughts and make-out scenes were a bit too steamy for my tastes. On a steaminess level I would rate it a warm PG-13.
I felt that the passionate thoughts and make-out scenes were a bit too steamy for my tastes. On a steaminess level I would rate it a warm PG-13.
September 18, 2019
Fun read
Michael and Anna have great chemistry together! I really enjoyed their story. It took me through all the emotions. I laughed and cried. It was a really fun clean read.
Michael and Anna have great chemistry together! I really enjoyed their story. It took me through all the emotions. I laughed and cried. It was a really fun clean read.
June 1, 2018
I love stories about people who grew up together as friends who turn into more. This one was just as good, however I wonder if Anna and Michael didn't have to help out Michael's sister would they have ended up together? This retreat to help McKenna really is the catalyst to get these two together but they still fight it every step of the way. It's borderline annoying. They are clearly in love with each other, but both think the other is better off without them. It's not even an "I don't want to ruin our friendship" kind of thing. This is probably the only reason I didn't give it a 5.
The writing is clean with only a few typos, and the story flows well. The relief and satisfaction when they finally admit their true feelings at the end is the perfect payoff as well.
I give Marrying an Athlete a solid 4 and clean rating.
1-5 scale and what it means:
1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive
3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love
4: Solid mind candy / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
Movie Ratings in relation to my review:
Clean--Hallmark movies, some kissing, no nudity, no sex on or off "screen"
PG--Some innuendo but nothing kids don't hear every day, sex is all closed door
PG-13--some language (swear words not related to sex), more talk about sex, heavy petting, removal of clothing on screen, but sex is closed door.
PG-14—somewhere between PG-13 and R. Not erotica, but at least a paragraph of on screen sex
R--swearing (F bomb, on “screen” sex, sometimes feels like the whole story is about the sex and not the relationship or some other plot, but not always
The writing is clean with only a few typos, and the story flows well. The relief and satisfaction when they finally admit their true feelings at the end is the perfect payoff as well.
I give Marrying an Athlete a solid 4 and clean rating.
1-5 scale and what it means:
1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive
3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love
4: Solid mind candy / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
Movie Ratings in relation to my review:
Clean--Hallmark movies, some kissing, no nudity, no sex on or off "screen"
PG--Some innuendo but nothing kids don't hear every day, sex is all closed door
PG-13--some language (swear words not related to sex), more talk about sex, heavy petting, removal of clothing on screen, but sex is closed door.
PG-14—somewhere between PG-13 and R. Not erotica, but at least a paragraph of on screen sex
R--swearing (F bomb, on “screen” sex, sometimes feels like the whole story is about the sex and not the relationship or some other plot, but not always
June 26, 2018
Anna Short lost her job and her boyfriend (who was the same person) after discovering that he betrayed her with the assistant (and now they were getting married).
Michael Jones, a defenseman for the NY Rangers, wanted to escape an ambivalent situation after having proposed marriage to the wrong person, but the news would soon hit the tabloids.
When Michael's sister, Mckenna, asked him and Anna to pretend to be a married couple to accompany her and her husband in a couples resort to try to save her marriage in crisis after two years of trying to get pregnant, the opportunity to escape their complicated lives was there.
Pretending to be married was the easy part of the plan. The difficult was to admit that there was something more between them.
Two years ago, at McKenna's wedding, Michael and Anna kissed. For her the kiss meant a lot, but to him it seemed to have been just another check on his huge list.
The chemistry between them heats up. But Michael's fiancée arrives and chaos sets in.
While Mckenna's marriage was coming better, how could Michael repair the mess he created and convince Anna that the kiss they shared two years ago was the starting point for their love affair?
4 stars
Michael Jones, a defenseman for the NY Rangers, wanted to escape an ambivalent situation after having proposed marriage to the wrong person, but the news would soon hit the tabloids.
When Michael's sister, Mckenna, asked him and Anna to pretend to be a married couple to accompany her and her husband in a couples resort to try to save her marriage in crisis after two years of trying to get pregnant, the opportunity to escape their complicated lives was there.
Pretending to be married was the easy part of the plan. The difficult was to admit that there was something more between them.
Two years ago, at McKenna's wedding, Michael and Anna kissed. For her the kiss meant a lot, but to him it seemed to have been just another check on his huge list.
The chemistry between them heats up. But Michael's fiancée arrives and chaos sets in.
While Mckenna's marriage was coming better, how could Michael repair the mess he created and convince Anna that the kiss they shared two years ago was the starting point for their love affair?
4 stars
June 1, 2018
Not for me (involuntarily childless; a mom only in my heart)
McKenna’s sadness about not being able to have kids was too close to home. This is the sort of book that has a happy ending for everything, which I normally appreciate, but in this case I just couldn’t handle it. Because I didn’t get my happy ending in that regard, and it made me feel so sad all over again. Normally I wouldn’t put something so personal in a review, but I know there are more women like me out there. This review is written for you: don’t read this book if you’re still emotional about it like I am.
But that’s not all. I didn’t really like Anna and I didn’t really like Michael. The whole style just lacked depth for me. I didn’t feel it, it didn’t grab me or move me. Except for that one thing that did move me in a negative way…
I know I’m being a bit harsh. I know the author has worked hard on this book and I also know that a lot of people did/will enjoy it. If the author happens to read this: please take solace in the fact that not every book is a match for every reader. I’m sorry, but this one just wasn’t for me.
McKenna’s sadness about not being able to have kids was too close to home. This is the sort of book that has a happy ending for everything, which I normally appreciate, but in this case I just couldn’t handle it. Because I didn’t get my happy ending in that regard, and it made me feel so sad all over again. Normally I wouldn’t put something so personal in a review, but I know there are more women like me out there. This review is written for you: don’t read this book if you’re still emotional about it like I am.
But that’s not all. I didn’t really like Anna and I didn’t really like Michael. The whole style just lacked depth for me. I didn’t feel it, it didn’t grab me or move me. Except for that one thing that did move me in a negative way…
I know I’m being a bit harsh. I know the author has worked hard on this book and I also know that a lot of people did/will enjoy it. If the author happens to read this: please take solace in the fact that not every book is a match for every reader. I’m sorry, but this one just wasn’t for me.
May 22, 2018
💕🌅Will a marriage retreat "fantasy🌊 island" work its magic on married and unmarried couples alike?!🌺💕
May 18, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4 and a bit stars🌊🌴
Cute and clean 💜romance with some humorous moments and an🌺 exotic beach setting. Taking off to a foreign resort in support of saving a loved one's rocky marriage is an interesting twist that gets the main couple together and keeps them interacting, sometimes with fun and humor, sometimes with sparks. Liked but did not love the MCs, interesting surprise twist interloper leading to the climax.
I was surprised and a bit disappointed that, despite most of the story being set in 🌴Bora Bora in French Polynesia, not one of the staff or characters at the resort had any Polynesian or French flavor (one character using "mon amour" as an endearment does not a French Polynesian make!). I would have appreciated a bit of authentic local feel.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 18, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍4 and a bit stars🌊🌴
Cute and clean 💜romance with some humorous moments and an🌺 exotic beach setting. Taking off to a foreign resort in support of saving a loved one's rocky marriage is an interesting twist that gets the main couple together and keeps them interacting, sometimes with fun and humor, sometimes with sparks. Liked but did not love the MCs, interesting surprise twist interloper leading to the climax.
I was surprised and a bit disappointed that, despite most of the story being set in 🌴Bora Bora in French Polynesia, not one of the staff or characters at the resort had any Polynesian or French flavor (one character using "mon amour" as an endearment does not a French Polynesian make!). I would have appreciated a bit of authentic local feel.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 22, 2018
A comic romance, the opening chapter was hilarious and made me laugh out loud. Whilst Anna has landed at rock bottom through no fault of her own, Michael has made such a mess of things that when the opportunity presents itself to take Anna as a fake wife, he jumps into it without considering the consequences. Finding themselves at a couples retreat on a beautiful island, Anna and her childhood friend reconnect, but not without misunderstandings and some mistrust. When Michael's real fiancé arrives on the scene, the bottom drops out of Anna's world once more. I loved Anna's character but really got upset with Michael and his immature antics. However, he does eventually redeem himself and the book comes to a happy ending. I received a free copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
May 23, 2018
This book was so much fun to read! I love the plot...a famous athlete needs a fake wife to go help out his sister at a marriage therapy resort. Her sister's best friend Anna agrees to go as his wife to make sure they can help her with her marriage that is on the rocks. It makes for a lot of fun as they have to do couple's massages and therapy sessions and cooking lessons. These two people are seriously crazy about each other, but won't admit it, after many mistakes in the past. Michael has loved Anna since they were kids, but as a player, who dates women off and on, he doesn't want to hurt Anna, who he cares about for real. She's been hurt before, and has trouble trusting Michael. It's a sweet romance, that tugs at the heartstrings in a big way. It's an amazing book that I highly recommend.
May 19, 2018
Marrying An Athlete was a cute, sweet and quick read. Anna and Michael have known each other most of their lives. They both want to move from friends to lovers but are unsure of the others feeling and don’t want to jeopardize the friendship. All of this is happening while they are on a couples retreat trip and pretending to be married. This is to help Michael’s sister and Anna’s best friend and her husband who are on the trip trying to save their marriage.
This was a cute friends-to-lovers/fake marriage story that can be read in a few hours.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This was a cute friends-to-lovers/fake marriage story that can be read in a few hours.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2018
This was such a funny read. Fake marriage to go to a resort to get counseling on saving said marriage in order to support a couple actually struggling with their marriage.
There was lots of tension, mixed signals, flirting, and a beautiful setting. I'd totally go there.
Clean writing. Good romance. Well paced.
My only criticism was the easy way out to fix the marriage that was actually in trouble. I could've read a whole book on McKenna's relationship with her husband. That and I knew chapters before characters what was happening with McKenna. How were the rest so clueless? Still, not a deal breaker. Enjoy.
There was lots of tension, mixed signals, flirting, and a beautiful setting. I'd totally go there.
Clean writing. Good romance. Well paced.
My only criticism was the easy way out to fix the marriage that was actually in trouble. I could've read a whole book on McKenna's relationship with her husband. That and I knew chapters before characters what was happening with McKenna. How were the rest so clueless? Still, not a deal breaker. Enjoy.
May 31, 2018
Hello Bora Bora!
She's been crushed by her long-term boyfriend who happened to also be her boss which leaves her with lots of credentials but no job. The only thing left is waitressing in a coffee shop and she's failing miserably at that. What could be more humbling than feeling useless? Having her life-long crush walk in the door at her lowest point. Even worse? His sister is her best friend and right now his sister needs the two of them to work together to help save her marriage. The sparks fly when these two are in the vicinity of each other. Throw in a beautiful resort in Bora Bora and magic is bound to happen.
She's been crushed by her long-term boyfriend who happened to also be her boss which leaves her with lots of credentials but no job. The only thing left is waitressing in a coffee shop and she's failing miserably at that. What could be more humbling than feeling useless? Having her life-long crush walk in the door at her lowest point. Even worse? His sister is her best friend and right now his sister needs the two of them to work together to help save her marriage. The sparks fly when these two are in the vicinity of each other. Throw in a beautiful resort in Bora Bora and magic is bound to happen.
May 18, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by Anne-Marie Meyer and I really enjoyed it. Her writing kept me flipping the pages to see how this was going to end. Anna has been attracted to Michael, especially since they kissed at McKenna’s wedding to Sam. Michael feels the same way about her, but doesn’t think he’s worthy of her. After the kiss, he calls out another girl’s name and pretends to pass out. They agree to go to Rekindle Resort to show support to Kenna, Anna’s best friend and Michael’s sister. No spoilers, but I will say you will enjoy this sweet read.
May 21, 2018
This was a fun story. I really liked the characters-so different from each other but so right for each other. I love that they have known each other their whole lives. I liked the spin of the setting and how it became the “magic” of the story.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 21, 2018
I thought this story was fun and intriguing. Michael and Anna pretend they are a married couple in order to help Michael's sister and brother in law.fix their marriage. They agree to go to a couple's counseling resort in Bora Bora. The story is funny, especially the private counseling sessions. Throw in some jealousy and Michael and Anna not admitting they they have feelings for each other and you will not want to put this book down. I really like this new series. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
March 15, 2021
I love to read Anne-Marie Meyer books, they are always fun and this one did not fail. Michael is a famous hockey player in the NHL. He arrives at his sisters home to find out she is having marital problems and her and her husband are going to Bora Bora to ReKindle Marriage Retreat. She convinces Michael and her best friend Anna ( who happens to be his ex) to come along.
Anna and Micheal have to say they are married as only married couples can go to retreat.
There are so many laughs in this book you need to be careful where you are reading this book.. I loved it I did not put it down once I started reading. Standalone, easy read,HEA
Anna and Micheal have to say they are married as only married couples can go to retreat.
There are so many laughs in this book you need to be careful where you are reading this book.. I loved it I did not put it down once I started reading. Standalone, easy read,HEA
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