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Touching Down
An athlete and an artist fall in love…
Tortured artist. Popular jock. There’s a reason these stereotypes exist. We were them. I didn't meet Jackson Walker until junior year, but from that day forward, I knew my life would change forever. What I didn't expect, what I didn't anticipate, was my heart's betrayal. That I would bend and break and fall helplessly in love with a man who wasn’t mine to keep.
Our love always reminded me of the painting, The Starry Night.
Captivating. Breathtaking. Surreal.
Looking back, that should have been the first red flag. Not only did van Gogh create the famous painting while a patient in an insane asylum, but he considered the piece a failure.
Worthless. Broken. Like me.
Still, I saw us reflected in the rich oils, in the thick brush strokes — Jackson’s eyes reflected in the sparkling stars, his smile the bright crescent moon winking in the inky night sky. His presence, massive, all-consuming, demanding attention.
My contributions weren’t so beautiful. I brought the darkness, the swirls of color spilling together like the murky memories of my mind. The dark shadow, the silhouette of the cypress tree looming in the foreground, mourning. Guarding hidden secrets, ugly truths.
He is light. I am darkness. And in the end, darkness always prevails.
Touching Down is a new adult college football romance. If you like shy yet sexy, hot yet sensitive, and enough sizzle to melt your Kindle, then you'll love this steamy romance by best-selling author CJ Martín.
Tortured artist. Popular jock. There’s a reason these stereotypes exist. We were them. I didn't meet Jackson Walker until junior year, but from that day forward, I knew my life would change forever. What I didn't expect, what I didn't anticipate, was my heart's betrayal. That I would bend and break and fall helplessly in love with a man who wasn’t mine to keep.
Our love always reminded me of the painting, The Starry Night.
Captivating. Breathtaking. Surreal.
Looking back, that should have been the first red flag. Not only did van Gogh create the famous painting while a patient in an insane asylum, but he considered the piece a failure.
Worthless. Broken. Like me.
Still, I saw us reflected in the rich oils, in the thick brush strokes — Jackson’s eyes reflected in the sparkling stars, his smile the bright crescent moon winking in the inky night sky. His presence, massive, all-consuming, demanding attention.
My contributions weren’t so beautiful. I brought the darkness, the swirls of color spilling together like the murky memories of my mind. The dark shadow, the silhouette of the cypress tree looming in the foreground, mourning. Guarding hidden secrets, ugly truths.
He is light. I am darkness. And in the end, darkness always prevails.
Touching Down is a new adult college football romance. If you like shy yet sexy, hot yet sensitive, and enough sizzle to melt your Kindle, then you'll love this steamy romance by best-selling author CJ Martín.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2018
81 people are currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Martín
6 books221 followersCJ Martín spends the majority of her days daydreaming, procrastinating, and longing for the day when she can quit her day job and write full time.
She loves all things romance and is a sucker for a happily-ever-after. She also loves traveling, yoga, avocados, and music. She has about a million and one playlists on Spotify that are as random as her personality.
She lives in Pennsylvania with her sweet husband (Literally! He owns an ice cream shoppe!) and twelve year-old Jug dog, Albert, who is more spoiled than most humans.
One day she will move to Paris and eat all of the wine and cheese, but until then...she dreams.
Join her Facebook group, CJ's Circle, sign up for her newsletter, or stalk her online: Facebook ⎸ Twitter ⎸ Instagram ⎸ Pinterest ⎸ BookBub ⎸ Amazon
Book by CJ Martín:
⭐︎ Snowbound (Oct. 2015)
⭐︎ Off Key (Aug. 2016)
⭐︎ Knockout (2016)
⭐︎ Forever Hearts (2017)
⭐︎ Touching Down (2018)
She loves all things romance and is a sucker for a happily-ever-after. She also loves traveling, yoga, avocados, and music. She has about a million and one playlists on Spotify that are as random as her personality.
She lives in Pennsylvania with her sweet husband (Literally! He owns an ice cream shoppe!) and twelve year-old Jug dog, Albert, who is more spoiled than most humans.
One day she will move to Paris and eat all of the wine and cheese, but until then...she dreams.
Join her Facebook group, CJ's Circle, sign up for her newsletter, or stalk her online: Facebook ⎸ Twitter ⎸ Instagram ⎸ Pinterest ⎸ BookBub ⎸ Amazon
Book by CJ Martín:
⭐︎ Snowbound (Oct. 2015)
⭐︎ Off Key (Aug. 2016)
⭐︎ Knockout (2016)
⭐︎ Forever Hearts (2017)
⭐︎ Touching Down (2018)
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 17, 2018
4.5 Stars*****
I love discovering new authors, and I especially love it when the book turns out to be amazing. C.J Martín’s writing style is very unique, it has a lot of heart, and it's impossible not to feel it traveling through your senses, like a beautiful song.
I found Touching Down to be a very heartwarming story. The characters and the story had many layers, and as I read I found myself falling in love with both the story and the author.
Jax is a college football star. He lives and breathes football, nothing else matters to him. Until one day, he meets a beautiful girl inside the men’s locker room. Jax is not one to be obsessed or to be unexplainable interested in girls; only because they throw themselves at him on the daily, but this girl is different and he can’t wait to find out more about her.
Brooklyn is an artist, and she’s been commissioned a project with the school’s football team. She much rather be home, eating junk food and watching Netflix than to be painting for a bunch of hot jocks, but her teacher is practically forcing her to complete this project. When she meets Jax Walker and then he shows interest in her, she can hardly believe it, the man is a walking work of art, but even if she believed or accepted his advances, she could never be with him, her dark secrets would never let her.
Little by little Jax breaks down Brooklyn’s walls, but once he discovers her dark truths will he stay, or would he leave her broken-hearted just like everyone else in her life?
I loved everything about this book, I was so pleasantly surprised to have loved it as much as I did. The writing style of this author is superb, her story craft impeccable and the characters totally unforgettable. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to all my friends.
I love discovering new authors, and I especially love it when the book turns out to be amazing. C.J Martín’s writing style is very unique, it has a lot of heart, and it's impossible not to feel it traveling through your senses, like a beautiful song.
I found Touching Down to be a very heartwarming story. The characters and the story had many layers, and as I read I found myself falling in love with both the story and the author.
Jax is a college football star. He lives and breathes football, nothing else matters to him. Until one day, he meets a beautiful girl inside the men’s locker room. Jax is not one to be obsessed or to be unexplainable interested in girls; only because they throw themselves at him on the daily, but this girl is different and he can’t wait to find out more about her.
Brooklyn is an artist, and she’s been commissioned a project with the school’s football team. She much rather be home, eating junk food and watching Netflix than to be painting for a bunch of hot jocks, but her teacher is practically forcing her to complete this project. When she meets Jax Walker and then he shows interest in her, she can hardly believe it, the man is a walking work of art, but even if she believed or accepted his advances, she could never be with him, her dark secrets would never let her.
Little by little Jax breaks down Brooklyn’s walls, but once he discovers her dark truths will he stay, or would he leave her broken-hearted just like everyone else in her life?
I loved everything about this book, I was so pleasantly surprised to have loved it as much as I did. The writing style of this author is superb, her story craft impeccable and the characters totally unforgettable. I would HIGHLY recommend this book to all my friends.
September 20, 2018
3 Stars
This was a bit too repetitive and predictable for me.
This was a bit too repetitive and predictable for me.
September 5, 2018
LOVED IT! I happened on this book by accident, but SO glad I did! I love sports romances, and I LOVE football! This had everything you needed in a great book. Great "falling in love" aspect, (not insta-love), great steam, great plot, and wonderful epilogue. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
July 20, 2018
⭐️ 4 "New York" Stars ⭐️
Fans of college sports romance, you will swoon over this sweet yet steamy read! In Touching Down, C.J. Martin brings a whole lot of sexiness, humour and stirring moments together!
"I want her to make me wait for it. She's not a one-game girl. She's the whole fucking season."
Jax is such a fantastic hero! Seriously that guy is swoon-worthy! He’s not your usual stereotype quarterback. Yes, he has a cocky side and likes to use his charm, but Brooklyn brings the best side of him. With her he wants to finally have a relationship and he acts so thoughtfully with her. I liked that he perseveres in his courtship when she pushes him away!
Brooklyn has a lot of baggage and she’s not looking for a boyfriend. She tries the best she can to deterred Jax in his wooing, but his appeal is irresistible! Together they’re just amazing! They share witty banters, but also really hot encounters that left me breathless. Under all these light and vibrant feelings, Brooklyn is hiding secrets from her past that she tries to forget with her art.
I really enjoyed the storyline and the chemistry between Brooklyn and Jackson, but I would have liked the scenes to be longer. I felt like when the momentum of the sequence was at its peak, it was cut abruptly and lost a little of its effect. That’s the main reason didn’t rate the book higher than four stars!
"The kiss isn't slow or sensual. It's heated, demanding, an awakening to my soul."
Overall, Touching Down is a lovely romance, with amazing main heroes that charmed me and an engaging plotline! It’s the textbook college romance that will surely steal your heart with its swoon factor!
Want to read
July 16, 2018
Touching Down
A standalone, sports romance
Release Date: July 16, 2018
Amazon Links:
🇺🇸 Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2NeYBT6
🇨🇦 Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2mmQx7K
🇬🇧 Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2utBYn2
🇦🇺 Amazon AU:https://amzn.to/2KZGDHB
July 17, 2018
My first book from this author and it was a fantastic read! Jackson breathes and lives for football. He has focused his time and energy playing football that he can't afford any distractions. Brooklyn came from a home filled with nightmares that she still can't get away from. She is focused on her art and being invisible. When these two meet she does her best to ignore his advances and flirting. He is determined to break through her walls, even though he knows he doesn’t have the time and energy to invest in her. When these two finally get together Brooklyn's walls come tumbling down and she puts her heart and trust in Jackson. She tells him everything about her past, and in turn Jackson tells her something about his past only a couple of other people know about. Their love, faith, and trust in each other grows each day, until both of their pasts collide with each other and Jackson hurts Brooklyn to the point where everything they've invested in their relationship is now gone.
Brooklyn has had a horrible and rough past and she doesn't trust anyone except her best friend Corey. It took her a long time to finally tell Jackson about her past. Jackson knows that he has to focus on football and getting ready for the draft but he can't let Brooklyn go. He regrets hurting her the way he did and would do anything to fix what he broke. But Brooklyn's walls are back up, and Jackson will have to find a way to earn back her heart and trust. And he will not give up.
This was a really great book! I love college sport romances and this one did not disappoint. Although I do think Brooklyn should have made Jackson grovel a bit more. But love is love and they both have to learn to let go of the past in order to move on with their future. Such a great read and I look forward to her next book!
Received a copy for an honest review.
Brooklyn has had a horrible and rough past and she doesn't trust anyone except her best friend Corey. It took her a long time to finally tell Jackson about her past. Jackson knows that he has to focus on football and getting ready for the draft but he can't let Brooklyn go. He regrets hurting her the way he did and would do anything to fix what he broke. But Brooklyn's walls are back up, and Jackson will have to find a way to earn back her heart and trust. And he will not give up.
This was a really great book! I love college sport romances and this one did not disappoint. Although I do think Brooklyn should have made Jackson grovel a bit more. But love is love and they both have to learn to let go of the past in order to move on with their future. Such a great read and I look forward to her next book!
Received a copy for an honest review.
July 13, 2018
Touching Down was so much more than your average sports romance. Martin fills her pages with a story so emotionally driven that you can’t help but fall hard, fast, and deeply for Jaxx and Brooklyn.
In Touching Down, Martin gives us what at first seems like a typical story line in this trope- football star falls for nerdy girl. However you quickly find that Martin dug deepers into these characters creating an emotional depth that is not typically found in a sports romance. Brooklyn’s character was very relatable to any girl whose been through a trauma in life. Her perseverance, determination and vulnerability were admirable. It was easy to see why she captured this college football stars’ attention.
Jaxx was nothing like your typical alpha male football star. While football is his passion, he finds out everything changes when an unexpected artist crosses his path. Jaxx’s pursuit of Brooklyn was sweet and romantic. He was the perfect guy to change her heart, body and soul.
Martin did an amazing job with Touching Down. I found myself many times smiling, crying and sighing all throughout this book. Brooklyn and Jaxx’s relationship was one that left me with a heart full of love and hope. She is definitely an author to one click. I highly recommend you get this romance.
In Touching Down, Martin gives us what at first seems like a typical story line in this trope- football star falls for nerdy girl. However you quickly find that Martin dug deepers into these characters creating an emotional depth that is not typically found in a sports romance. Brooklyn’s character was very relatable to any girl whose been through a trauma in life. Her perseverance, determination and vulnerability were admirable. It was easy to see why she captured this college football stars’ attention.
Jaxx was nothing like your typical alpha male football star. While football is his passion, he finds out everything changes when an unexpected artist crosses his path. Jaxx’s pursuit of Brooklyn was sweet and romantic. He was the perfect guy to change her heart, body and soul.
Martin did an amazing job with Touching Down. I found myself many times smiling, crying and sighing all throughout this book. Brooklyn and Jaxx’s relationship was one that left me with a heart full of love and hope. She is definitely an author to one click. I highly recommend you get this romance.
July 25, 2018
5 Stars
Touch Down is the all new stand-alone romance novel by CJ Martin! It was soooo good. From the first page I was hooked and I honestly did not put it down until I was done. Jackson and Brooklyn stole my heart. Their story was absolutely beautiful.
When Brooklyn was a teenager, she had the unthinkable happen. It has shaped her life and made her into the person she is today. Dealing with flashbacks and anxiety, Brooklyn keeps to herself and does not do anything but focus on her art. When she is forced to do a project involving the football team, little does she know that the star QB is going to change everything…
Jackson seems to have it all. Comes from a great family, does well in school, and lives and breathes football. He doesn’t date at all knowing that it will take away time from his training and his goals. When he meets Brooklyn, sparks fly. Literally. He knows she's a game changer. But when he gets to really know her and her secrets, will he still feel the same…
OMGGGGG!!!! CJ Martin wrote another fabulous book that hooked me from the start! The writing was excellent, the storyline was great, and I absolutely LOVED the characters. You guys don’t want to miss this one!
Touch Down is the all new stand-alone romance novel by CJ Martin! It was soooo good. From the first page I was hooked and I honestly did not put it down until I was done. Jackson and Brooklyn stole my heart. Their story was absolutely beautiful.
When Brooklyn was a teenager, she had the unthinkable happen. It has shaped her life and made her into the person she is today. Dealing with flashbacks and anxiety, Brooklyn keeps to herself and does not do anything but focus on her art. When she is forced to do a project involving the football team, little does she know that the star QB is going to change everything…
Jackson seems to have it all. Comes from a great family, does well in school, and lives and breathes football. He doesn’t date at all knowing that it will take away time from his training and his goals. When he meets Brooklyn, sparks fly. Literally. He knows she's a game changer. But when he gets to really know her and her secrets, will he still feel the same…
OMGGGGG!!!! CJ Martin wrote another fabulous book that hooked me from the start! The writing was excellent, the storyline was great, and I absolutely LOVED the characters. You guys don’t want to miss this one!
July 10, 2018
This is my first book by CJ Martin, and I wish I could give it more than 5 stars. Sports romance novels are my favourite genre, that this is based in a college setting really ticked all the boxes for me.
I loved the romance between Brooklyn and Jackson. They fell for each other fairly quickly, but once they committed to one another it certainly wasn't smooth sailing.
Brooklyn's story is simply heartbreaking. She definitely deserved to have someone as magnificent as Jackson to love her.
Then there is Jackson. He was my favourite character in this story. He is a gifted athlete, but that isn't what defines him for me. He has this incredible soft side - which I think Brooklyn brings out in him.
Such a great story and I would definitely love to read more from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
I loved the romance between Brooklyn and Jackson. They fell for each other fairly quickly, but once they committed to one another it certainly wasn't smooth sailing.
Brooklyn's story is simply heartbreaking. She definitely deserved to have someone as magnificent as Jackson to love her.
Then there is Jackson. He was my favourite character in this story. He is a gifted athlete, but that isn't what defines him for me. He has this incredible soft side - which I think Brooklyn brings out in him.
Such a great story and I would definitely love to read more from this author.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
July 13, 2018
This is the first book I have had the privilege to read by this writer. Well written and enjoyable from beginning to end. Not what I was expecting. Some very touching moments that had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what was going to happen. I absolutely love Jackson and Brooklyn. There is just definitely something very strong between them that can easily be seen. I loved their chemistry. It was enjoyable and steamy hot. I hated what Brooklyn went through but her character was so very well written and strong. Just a very enjoyable book from beginning to end. Gripping story line. I highly recommend this one.
July 16, 2018
5 SEXY JACKSON STARS!! Wow, this story was so intense with all the feels and keeps you flipping pages. I loved Jackson, he is sexy, a football player, confident, sweet and so full of love. Jackson and Brooklyn's story is beautiful, heartbreaking, sexy times, forgiveness and full of emotions. CJ Martin takes us readers on a beautiful journey with her phenomenal storytelling. You definitely need to 1-click this book.
July 29, 2018
I simply could not put this book down. Sexy, confident football superstar, Jackson and sweet, lovable Brooklyn come together in a highly emotional and heartwarming story. CJ Martin has a way of writing her characters that just sucks you into the story and never lets go. This book was a masterpiece filled with a beautiful plot, honest characters and I cannot recommend it enough. Once again CJ Martin does not disappoint.
July 16, 2018
Wow CJ Martin has out done herself on Touching Down. I definitely recommend this book. Jackson is the football star who falls for a girl that is from a different world. Brooklyn has a past that she wishes she could forget. I love how strong her character was written and how her past does not define her. Jackson and Brooklyn’s chemistry is steamy and explosive. Touching down is sexy and dynamic and it will keep you on they edge of your seat. Once I started I could put it down until the end.
February 14, 2019
I enjoyed reading this YA book about the star football player (Jackson) and the invisible, emo artist (Brooklyn). There was angst in the beginning of the book where Brooklyn kept rejecting Jackson because she was damaged. Once they were in a relationship, they had to learn how to navigate their different lifestyles and personality.
June 27, 2020
i was honestly horrified when jackson said “i need you to need me more” in regards to her self harm. i was even more floored by the fact that there had been no warnings nor, any resources for anyone struggling like most authors that have touched on things similar to this. that could be potentially very dangerous. there was no warning at all in the description.
July 14, 2018
Jackson is the sexy star of the football team.
Brooklyn is the sweet art student hiding away from a terrible past.
One look at Brooklyn and Jackson is hooked.
This is the story of 2 people from two different worlds.
Great read from a fabulous author!
Brooklyn is the sweet art student hiding away from a terrible past.
One look at Brooklyn and Jackson is hooked.
This is the story of 2 people from two different worlds.
Great read from a fabulous author!
April 4, 2019
I didn't realize that this entirely takes place in college.
This has dark themes and a male lead who is entirely consumed with football and getting this girl to fall in love with him. It was really annoying.
This has dark themes and a male lead who is entirely consumed with football and getting this girl to fall in love with him. It was really annoying.
July 7, 2018
Absolutely loved Brooklyn and Jackson!! The rollercoaster ride that is their story kept me on the edge. So many feels to this story and what Brooklyn over comes is a wonderful journey.
July 16, 2018
"Although cracked, imperfect, broken, it's still my favorite."
These characters really spoke to me.
I highly enjoyed this story and loved how real it felt
These characters really spoke to me.
I highly enjoyed this story and loved how real it felt
July 17, 2018
This was my first book I read by CJ Martin and it won't be my last! I felt the emotions come off the page! My heart hurt for Brooklyn and I loved how Jax was with her. This is a wonderful book!
July 19, 2018
This is one of those books that sucks you in. I definitely enjoyed the story.
October 1, 2018
I liked the first 70% much more than the last 30%.
August 10, 2023
⛔️(in notes)
April 8, 2020
Hi everyone! Just so you know my review series on"Touching Down," is on my Instagram blog at @Bookwhoreforevr so go check it out !!
SPOILERS AHEAD PROCEED WITH CAUTION
I told you there were spoilers :/
Starting off, I think the plot of the book, even though very traditional was still written well enough for me to have continued interest. It's a very common ploot in many sports books, but the character dynamic is able to share these problems in a way that is different and enlightening.
In the story, there are many obstacles between Jackson and Brooklyn in even starting a relationship from Brooklyn protecting herself from any romantic connection. It is later revealed SPOILER: that she cuts herself due to being sexually assaulted by her stepbrother in previous years. Brooklyn is very protective over heart but also her experiences.
I love this book just because of how Jackson and Brooklyn's relationship developed despite Brooklyn's qualms and unfortunate life experiences. It's very sweet how Jackson immediately wants to save her, however not really understanding the brunt of her problems.
Overall, I loved this book so much and would definitely recommend reading for anyone looking for a deep romance.
-Bookwhoreforever
Instagram: Bookwhoreforever
SPOILERS AHEAD PROCEED WITH CAUTION
I told you there were spoilers :/
Starting off, I think the plot of the book, even though very traditional was still written well enough for me to have continued interest. It's a very common ploot in many sports books, but the character dynamic is able to share these problems in a way that is different and enlightening.
In the story, there are many obstacles between Jackson and Brooklyn in even starting a relationship from Brooklyn protecting herself from any romantic connection. It is later revealed SPOILER: that she cuts herself due to being sexually assaulted by her stepbrother in previous years. Brooklyn is very protective over heart but also her experiences.
I love this book just because of how Jackson and Brooklyn's relationship developed despite Brooklyn's qualms and unfortunate life experiences. It's very sweet how Jackson immediately wants to save her, however not really understanding the brunt of her problems.
Overall, I loved this book so much and would definitely recommend reading for anyone looking for a deep romance.
-Bookwhoreforever
Instagram: Bookwhoreforever
February 12, 2021
5 Star Kindle Unlimited Read
'Touching Down' is my first ever read by author CJ Martin and now I'm hooked. Not only was the hero alpha protective, a hint of tenderness engrossed his personality. The heroine although broken was strong in her own right. The two click to establish that through your darkest days, true love is healing and acceptance. I can't wait to read more CJ Martin.
'Touching Down' is my first ever read by author CJ Martin and now I'm hooked. Not only was the hero alpha protective, a hint of tenderness engrossed his personality. The heroine although broken was strong in her own right. The two click to establish that through your darkest days, true love is healing and acceptance. I can't wait to read more CJ Martin.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews