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Washington Wolves #2
The Ex Effect
Have you ever had that one guy that you shouldn’t have had such a crush on, but still did? Matthew Hawkins was that man for me. First, he was off-limits, and second, I was just a gangly teenager the last time he saw me. But a lot can change in ten years.
As one of the best defensive players in the league, he just came out of retirement to sign with the team that I work for. And as the publicist for the Washington Wolves, he’s so good, it makes my job easy peasy.
In the years since I’ve seen Matthew, he’s bigger, better looking, and best of all—completely single. And despite our strange history, the attraction between us definitely isn’t one-sided anymore.
The chemistry between us is complicated—and hot. Hot enough to burn down the entire city of Seattle, which is why keeping it a secret from the press—and my family—is the only way we can be together.
But the truth always comes out. And when it does, there’s no predicting the ending.
As one of the best defensive players in the league, he just came out of retirement to sign with the team that I work for. And as the publicist for the Washington Wolves, he’s so good, it makes my job easy peasy.
In the years since I’ve seen Matthew, he’s bigger, better looking, and best of all—completely single. And despite our strange history, the attraction between us definitely isn’t one-sided anymore.
The chemistry between us is complicated—and hot. Hot enough to burn down the entire city of Seattle, which is why keeping it a secret from the press—and my family—is the only way we can be together.
But the truth always comes out. And when it does, there’s no predicting the ending.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 909 reviews
December 13, 2018
3.5 stars
I’m not a fan of ‘sibling-sharing’, but when I’m honestly warned, it’s my choice to read or not to read it *lol*. This trope was played well in terms of he didn’t see the heroine as possible love/lust-interest, when he dated her older sister. But…. * sad* the heroine had a crush on him back in the past.
He was a good man. It’s actually the main reason I read books by this author – she doesn’t write alphaholes or similar crap and (almost never) womanizers. Her heroes are good decent men, and it’s a rarity in romance, unfortunately.
This author also does not do slut-shaming! It’s a huge plus in my reading world. Overall – she doesn’t hate her female characters (main and side) and she doesn’t trash them. Respect!
So, back to the story. The hero was a good man, kind and loyal. It didn’t change the fact, that he dated heroine’s sister for 4 years and was engaged to her for 6 months, but it made it more bearable.
What I absolutely loved about him – he didn’t trash his ex-wife (a beautiful model he was married for 5 years). I know (unfortunately also from RL) that I’m often in a minority, who absolutely hates when men trash/disrepect other women. It doesn’t make any man attractive, it doesn’t make you, as his dialog opponent/new partner etc, better than the woman/women he trashes.
If a man disrespect other women, he will never respect you!
The cheapest and easiest way to pimp a heroine – to trash (slut-shame, turn into the villain etc) his ex or any other side character. Like – look, all bitches and sluts and this heroine is a pure innocence and kindness -> cheap and low.
Again, all above is not this author’s style.
So, as long she doesn’t write ‘daddy-kink’, I will read all her books!
Why only 3.5? Sorry, but the conflict toward the end was lame. I didn’t like, that the heroine needed to apologize – even if it was her fault. I just don’t like, when women apologize *lol*. Plus the family situation, her sister as hero’s ex and disapproval of her parents, were not solved, IMO, but on the other hand it was real approach. And I was sorry for Logan :-(
Safety: the h was celibate for years, she last dated in college (if I did the math correctly 6 years ago). Ouch! 6 years! He was divorced for a couple of years, but dated OWs. He said he wasn’t into ONSs. No condoms were used *ugh*, coz she was on the birth control and it was a while for him too. In this case, ok, since they both worked for the sport team and I know the players are tested regularly. Still *ugh*.
Good news – this book is connected to my favorite by this author - The Bombshell Effect.
I’m not a fan of ‘sibling-sharing’, but when I’m honestly warned, it’s my choice to read or not to read it *lol*. This trope was played well in terms of he didn’t see the heroine as possible love/lust-interest, when he dated her older sister. But…. * sad* the heroine had a crush on him back in the past.
He was a good man. It’s actually the main reason I read books by this author – she doesn’t write alphaholes or similar crap and (almost never) womanizers. Her heroes are good decent men, and it’s a rarity in romance, unfortunately.
This author also does not do slut-shaming! It’s a huge plus in my reading world. Overall – she doesn’t hate her female characters (main and side) and she doesn’t trash them. Respect!
So, back to the story. The hero was a good man, kind and loyal. It didn’t change the fact, that he dated heroine’s sister for 4 years and was engaged to her for 6 months, but it made it more bearable.
What I absolutely loved about him – he didn’t trash his ex-wife (a beautiful model he was married for 5 years). I know (unfortunately also from RL) that I’m often in a minority, who absolutely hates when men trash/disrepect other women. It doesn’t make any man attractive, it doesn’t make you, as his dialog opponent/new partner etc, better than the woman/women he trashes.
If a man disrespect other women, he will never respect you!
The cheapest and easiest way to pimp a heroine – to trash (slut-shame, turn into the villain etc) his ex or any other side character. Like – look, all bitches and sluts and this heroine is a pure innocence and kindness -> cheap and low.
Again, all above is not this author’s style.
So, as long she doesn’t write ‘daddy-kink’, I will read all her books!
Why only 3.5? Sorry, but the conflict toward the end was lame. I didn’t like, that the heroine needed to apologize – even if it was her fault. I just don’t like, when women apologize *lol*. Plus the family situation, her sister as hero’s ex and disapproval of her parents, were not solved, IMO, but on the other hand it was real approach. And I was sorry for Logan :-(
Safety: the h was celibate for years, she last dated in college (if I did the math correctly 6 years ago). Ouch! 6 years! He was divorced for a couple of years, but dated OWs. He said he wasn’t into ONSs. No condoms were used *ugh*, coz she was on the birth control and it was a while for him too. In this case, ok, since they both worked for the sport team and I know the players are tested regularly. Still *ugh*.
Good news – this book is connected to my favorite by this author - The Bombshell Effect.
August 15, 2023
The Ex Effect was ridiculously satisfying.
It had everything I love about a sports romance. An incredibly swoon worthy hero, a feisty heroine, and chemistry through the roof.
The Ex Effect was only my second book by Karla Sorensen but it's enough to know that I LOVE this author's style. From her dialogues to plot and characters - there isn't much I didn't adore about this book. It's up there with any Susan Elizabeth Philips (Chicago Stars #1) book. Reading this novel reminded me why I love sports romances so much. The tension, the scrutiny, the secrets - it all makes for a highly entertaining and captivating read.
I personally loved Ava. Not everyone can kick ass in such a testosterone filled environment. The way she handled the players was admirable. And I loved how easy and effortless it was for her and Matthew. It helped that they knew each other and had history, but that was nothing compared to how well their personalities matched.
Matthew was a darling. I loved that he acknowledged that he was a couple steps ahead of the game and just wanted Ava to catch up. That kind of admission was music to my ears. I loved him for being able to accept his feelings for what they were.
At this point I'm hooked. I can't wait to read the next book. And I really hope that Logan as well as Paige will get their own book. I wouldn't be too disappointed if those two would actually get together - lol.
It had everything I love about a sports romance. An incredibly swoon worthy hero, a feisty heroine, and chemistry through the roof.
The Ex Effect was only my second book by Karla Sorensen but it's enough to know that I LOVE this author's style. From her dialogues to plot and characters - there isn't much I didn't adore about this book. It's up there with any Susan Elizabeth Philips (Chicago Stars #1) book. Reading this novel reminded me why I love sports romances so much. The tension, the scrutiny, the secrets - it all makes for a highly entertaining and captivating read.
I personally loved Ava. Not everyone can kick ass in such a testosterone filled environment. The way she handled the players was admirable. And I loved how easy and effortless it was for her and Matthew. It helped that they knew each other and had history, but that was nothing compared to how well their personalities matched.
Matthew was a darling. I loved that he acknowledged that he was a couple steps ahead of the game and just wanted Ava to catch up. That kind of admission was music to my ears. I loved him for being able to accept his feelings for what they were.
At this point I'm hooked. I can't wait to read the next book. And I really hope that Logan as well as Paige will get their own book. I wouldn't be too disappointed if those two would actually get together - lol.
May 6, 2022
4 stars
I was happy to be back in the ‘Washington Wolves’ world. This sports romances focuses on Ava Baker, the Wolves publicist, and Matthew Hawkins, a star defensive end coming out of retirement for a two year contract.
Ava and Matthew have a history. A history in which Ava’s older sister and Matthew dated through college and ended up engaged, then broke it off after the sister cheated. That was many years ago, ten years to be exact. And Ava has always liked Matthew but now she realllllly likes Matthew. Things are just a bit complicated.
The Ex Effect was fun, sweet, and had just a bit of angst. I loved getting some of my favorite characters, especially Logan! I read these out of order so that made it even more fun for me.
I was happy to be back in the ‘Washington Wolves’ world. This sports romances focuses on Ava Baker, the Wolves publicist, and Matthew Hawkins, a star defensive end coming out of retirement for a two year contract.
Ava and Matthew have a history. A history in which Ava’s older sister and Matthew dated through college and ended up engaged, then broke it off after the sister cheated. That was many years ago, ten years to be exact. And Ava has always liked Matthew but now she realllllly likes Matthew. Things are just a bit complicated.
The Ex Effect was fun, sweet, and had just a bit of angst. I loved getting some of my favorite characters, especially Logan! I read these out of order so that made it even more fun for me.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Teddy Hamilton & Lucy Rivers
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance (Sports)
Length: 8h 3m
February 21, 2022
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I'm one of those readers that actually like the family members' ex type stories! To me, it gives me the promise of some angsty goodness. Sadly, this didn't have what I was hoping it would. The angst was pretty minimal, the love was too insta, and the ending was frustrating. I enjoyed myself, but not nearly as much as I had hoped.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ava and Matthew's story. Ava is a PR master for a NFL team but she is rattled to find out that the new player on their roster is none other than her older sister's ex-fiancé that she crushed hard on growing up. Matthew struggles with connecting his gangly young friend from 10 years ago to the beautiful woman she's become, but he can't help being drawn to her. There are some cute and sexy scenes as well as some team and family drama...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ava and Matthew's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end (see below). I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Yes. This did feel like it had a few major jumps from old friends to lust to love. I would've liked to experience and understand the development of stronger feelings a little more.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Matthew. I liked him more than the h, but I felt like he was a little too...perfect at times. I know! Why am I complaining?! I just need some flaws in my Hs to make them more reachable I guess 🤷🏻♀️
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Ava. I thought she was okay. I felt like she was dealing with her family drama the best she could, but I definitely wanted to shake her a few times.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: A little
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ended abruptly with what I would call a HFN ending. They do in the epilogue, but it wasn't nearly enough for me. I had a ton of unanswered questions in the end that left me frustrated.
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: I'm one of those readers that actually like the family members' ex type stories! To me, it gives me the promise of some angsty goodness. Sadly, this didn't have what I was hoping it would. The angst was pretty minimal, the love was too insta, and the ending was frustrating. I enjoyed myself, but not nearly as much as I had hoped.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ava and Matthew's story. Ava is a PR master for a NFL team but she is rattled to find out that the new player on their roster is none other than her older sister's ex-fiancé that she crushed hard on growing up. Matthew struggles with connecting his gangly young friend from 10 years ago to the beautiful woman she's become, but he can't help being drawn to her. There are some cute and sexy scenes as well as some team and family drama...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Ava and Matthew's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end (see below). I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Yes. This did feel like it had a few major jumps from old friends to lust to love. I would've liked to experience and understand the development of stronger feelings a little more.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Matthew. I liked him more than the h, but I felt like he was a little too...perfect at times. I know! Why am I complaining?! I just need some flaws in my Hs to make them more reachable I guess 🤷🏻♀️
h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Ava. I thought she was okay. I felt like she was dealing with her family drama the best she could, but I definitely wanted to shake her a few times.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: A little
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ended abruptly with what I would call a HFN ending. They do in the epilogue, but it wasn't nearly enough for me. I had a ton of unanswered questions in the end that left me frustrated.
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
May 27, 2023
#1 The Bombshell Effect — 3.25 stars
#2 The Ex Effect — 2.75 stars
when it said The Ex Effect, i thought the h was getting back together with her ex. turns out, she was pining for her sisters ex (H), which for me was worse. i dont remember much, but what annoyed me here was the fact that the h was a boss-bitch/ballbuster with her players, but she couldnt afford to stand up to her parents, which later on created problems that couldve been avoided.
also, idk how i feel about one of her players taking a liking to her (which she obviously rejected), and hes the H of the next book. i dont think this complication was necessary. lastly, having read book 3, i think the problem with this series is that the relationship development was always inadequate. it could be that the books were short, which was justified. it just left me feeling unsatisfied.
(read as an audiobook)
#2 The Ex Effect — 2.75 stars
when it said The Ex Effect, i thought the h was getting back together with her ex. turns out, she was pining for her sisters ex (H), which for me was worse. i dont remember much, but what annoyed me here was the fact that the h was a boss-bitch/ballbuster with her players, but she couldnt afford to stand up to her parents, which later on created problems that couldve been avoided.
also, idk how i feel about one of her players taking a liking to her (which she obviously rejected), and hes the H of the next book. i dont think this complication was necessary. lastly, having read book 3, i think the problem with this series is that the relationship development was always inadequate. it could be that the books were short, which was justified. it just left me feeling unsatisfied.
(read as an audiobook)
May 21, 2019
I want to give this book 4 stars. But I settle to 3 stars. Why? Because all of that drama and twist and the misunderstanding are caused by Matthew and Ava themselves. Ava for being chicken shit and let what her mother manipulation sips into her head. Matthew for being too naive. As alpha male, it is his fault not to fight for Ava. Not telling Ava's family about him and Ava is decision that made by Matthew and Ava.
But instead of acting like a mature adult, they act like children. And the fact they decide to hide their relationship pissing me off.
What I like about this book is the writing. Miss Sorensen have this talent to write sweet story. The wording is engaging. Engaging enough for me to finish listening to the audio book.
3 stars
But instead of acting like a mature adult, they act like children. And the fact they decide to hide their relationship pissing me off.
What I like about this book is the writing. Miss Sorensen have this talent to write sweet story. The wording is engaging. Engaging enough for me to finish listening to the audio book.
3 stars
not-appealing
December 26, 2018The hero was once engaged to the heroine's older sister.
January 30, 2019
I couldn’t get enough reading this! It was so much more than expected to be honest. Filled with so much heartache and swoon-worthy moments, Matthew and Ava had me flipping through the pages with ease. The Ex Effect is my first story by Karla Sorensen—it won’t be my last!
This was something I could trust, this instinct to lean more deeply into her, into what I felt when I was around her.
Matthew Hawkins is larger than life; a sweet and gentle giant with a caring soul and addictive personality. He also has this certain charm and protectiveness that’s irresistible, you’ll want to wrap yourself up in it! Ava Baker is this hard-working and independent woman working within an industry flooded with testosterone, but she has her own brand of sassiness that keeps all the men around her focused and admiring her presence.
When Matthew and Ava are together, there’s nothing sweeter! It’s an explosion of cuteness that will have your heart soaring; flirtatious moments that ease an underlying tension; a certain tenderness that will hit your emotions deep. They’re the sweetest, most perfect couple despite past circumstances.
I'd closed off big, important pieces of myself to a man who loved me because I'd never learned how to be loved in the right way.
The Ex Effect is an interesting combination of various tropes—a forbidden, second chance romance between two old friends, bursting with so much heated chemistry and profound emotion, you’ll be invested in everything they do. I love that they lean into their relationship—though there's angst that underlies it that will make your heart pound in anticipation of what will happen next.
Karla Sorensen writes contemporary romance right with heroes who are unforgettable, full of charm and are just perfect real characters. If you've loved her other story, The Bombshell Effect, you'll obsess over this one, too!
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April 12, 2023
3.5 stars
I love Karla Sorensen and I was excited to see the rest of this series on my Hoopla! I listened to the audiobook and this was fun! The heroine has had a crush on the hero since he dated her sister. Now, she runs PR for a football team and he just joined that team and they reunite. They end up falling for each other and I would have loved a bit more resistance on that attraction. They got together a bit too quickly, and the build up to the major conflict (her family finding out) felt like a bit of a let down? Her family, especially her sister, weren't that great to her and that added to the conflict of her dating him behind her family's back. Since they were so mean, I just wanted the heroine to do what made her happy and not worry about them, which she couldn't do. I did enjoy how they couldn't avoid each other since they worked for the same team! This just isn't my favorite I've read from this author.
I love Karla Sorensen and I was excited to see the rest of this series on my Hoopla! I listened to the audiobook and this was fun! The heroine has had a crush on the hero since he dated her sister. Now, she runs PR for a football team and he just joined that team and they reunite. They end up falling for each other and I would have loved a bit more resistance on that attraction. They got together a bit too quickly, and the build up to the major conflict (her family finding out) felt like a bit of a let down? Her family, especially her sister, weren't that great to her and that added to the conflict of her dating him behind her family's back. Since they were so mean, I just wanted the heroine to do what made her happy and not worry about them, which she couldn't do. I did enjoy how they couldn't avoid each other since they worked for the same team! This just isn't my favorite I've read from this author.
nope
December 5, 2018UPDATE: 2 minutes later (LMAO) It’s exactly what it smells and taste: sibling double dipping. EWWWWWWWW I found this plot, one of the most disgusting plots ever. 🤮🤢🤮🤢 Hero was engaged to heroine’s sister for 4 years and she cheated on him. My question though: would they be together if she haven’t cheated ? 🧐🧐😏😏
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This smells and tastes like sibling double dipping.
I just shelved as MAYBE because I want to read the “real” reviews. I thought this plot was “last season”. Well.. Wait and see
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This smells and tastes like sibling double dipping.
I just shelved as MAYBE because I want to read the “real” reviews. I thought this plot was “last season”. Well.. Wait and see
June 14, 2019
I skimmed the last 45% of this one so this is going to be short.
I'm not a fan of the hero being with both sisters but I actually read one already that wasn't bad but in this one they broached the topic too much for me. I'd prefer it never be mentioned. But what really made me angry was Ava's interaction with her family and the way she tried to hide the H Because of them. Given how they had treated her I don't know why she made the effort, the H deserved better than that from her and honestly I was tired of hearing about her family and her perfect sister. For the H though I did think he genuinely cared about her but his little memory box iroed me as well.
I enjoyed book 1 but this one didn't work for me.
H dated and was engaged to the h's sister
He was also married, divorced and dated a few OW not a manwhore though(yay)
h had always had a crush on him, her last relationship was in college
I'm not a fan of the hero being with both sisters but I actually read one already that wasn't bad but in this one they broached the topic too much for me. I'd prefer it never be mentioned. But what really made me angry was Ava's interaction with her family and the way she tried to hide the H Because of them. Given how they had treated her I don't know why she made the effort, the H deserved better than that from her and honestly I was tired of hearing about her family and her perfect sister. For the H though I did think he genuinely cared about her but his little memory box iroed me as well.
I enjoyed book 1 but this one didn't work for me.
H dated and was engaged to the h's sister
He was also married, divorced and dated a few OW not a manwhore though(yay)
h had always had a crush on him, her last relationship was in college
January 2, 2019
A quick puff of a read, pretty solid sports romance based on unrequited love... Though it must be mentioned, the sibling thing is weird. And it's convenient they didn't get along and all...
But the drama in the latter half was too convenient for my taste. 2.75, just cause I knocked a bit off for the drama that suffocated the second half
But the drama in the latter half was too convenient for my taste. 2.75, just cause I knocked a bit off for the drama that suffocated the second half
December 3, 2018
4.5 stars
This is the first book I’ve read by Karla Sorensen, and I’ve discovered two things: First, coming in on the second book in a series, I was still able to fully appreciate the story and not feel as if I was missing anything. And second, I now have an entire backlist of books to read because this author’s writing style was wonderful. The Ex-Effect was everything I’m hoping for when I pick up a book by a new-to-me author. It was a sweet story with great characters, fantastic writing style, and just a pleasure to sink into.
As someone who is not truly a sports fan, I have an odd affinity for sports romances and I just gobbled up this story about a football player that’s looking for second chances in so many aspects of his life. Matthew is at the end of his career but not quite ready to give it all up when he moves to a new city to play for a new team. He wasn’t expecting to enjoy his new home, and he certainly wasn’t expecting to run into the little sister of his ex-fiancé.
Ava, who once adored Matthew with a schoolgirl crush, is now all grown up, and a force to be reckoned with. No longer the shy girl that is continuously put down by her family, she’s ballsy and fierce, and I really enjoyed this woman.
I loved the re-connection between Matthew and Ava and all of the feelings, good and bad, that it evoked in each of them, because they were all so genuine. I adored the storyline of two people who have always known one another now seeing each other in a different light, and in this case, it is enhanced by the fact that a decade has passed and they don’t really know one another at all. The chemistry was off the charts and this sexy second chance romance hit all the right spots for me.
November 27, 2018
There are very few authors who, when I hear they have a new book coming out, I literally squeal and clap and grow heart eyes waiting for the release.
And Karla Sorensen is one of them.
Fortunately, I was able to read an early copy of this one (probably because I was OB-FREAKING-SESSED with The Bombshell Effect and not-so-subtly begging for more from the other characters in this world). And once again, Sorensen has completely blown me away.
The Ex Effect has everything I love in a romance. It's steamy and hilarious, but it also tugs on my heart strings in just the right way. And with the "he used to date my sister" drama underlining the entire plot? Um... CAN WE JUST HOLD HANDS AND REJOICE IN THE ANGST, PLEASE?! God! By the time these two finally kissed, I was so squirmy I might as well have been a fish out of water on a hot boat deck. WHEW. And man, that first kiss was worth waiting for. LE SIGH.
"Oh, I knew Matthew Hawkins all right. My sister's ex-fiancé, and the man I'd had a ridiculous crush on in high school. And now he was going to be one of the men in the locker room across the hall."
JUICY!
Also seriously, I want Ava's job. PR for a professional football team? YES, PLEASE. And if there's one thing I love about Ava's character, it's that she is the TITS at her job. I mean seriously, BAD A*S BI***. There's nothing I love more than a strong, fierce woman who can wrangle some men and make them respect her.
ANYWAY, back to the nature at hand.
So, one of my favorite things about reading any Karla Sorensen novel is that THIS. WOMAN. CAN. WRITE. Like... it absolutely blows my brains up. She is the ONLY author I can even think of who can tap into my attention from the very first paragraph and suck me into her world. There's just something about the colloquial way in which she tells her stories, the witty and intelligent way she delivers her jokes, the absolute honesty with which she attacks life's most sensitive and brutal subjects. It's mesmerizing, and there's nothing I love more than falling under Karla Sorensen's spell each and every time I open one of her books.
And again... THE ANGST.
"There's a line, and we're about to cross it. That's what I saw in his face. It wasn't really a question. No should we? The inevitability of it may have been made easier with the sweet slide of alcohol in our veins."
I loved the slow burn in the first part of this book -- the little looks, the misunderstood words, the lingering eyes... SIGH. I live for that, y'all. LIVE. FOR. IT. And it was done so well in this story. I loved how the past family issues really played into who the characters are today and why they struggled with giving in to each other. I mean, here's this poor girl who's always been in her sister's shadows, so you want to HATE her sister, right? But then it's like... damn, THAT poor girl had all that pressure from her parents. Which is worse? And is anyone really to blame?
For Matthew, his trust is hard to earn and even harder to keep after the way things went down with his ex. Maybe that's why I was biting my nails down to the nub as certain things were kept from him, even if they were done so without malicious intent. And that leads us to...
THE BLOW UP SCENE.
"That's the thing no one tells you about being lied to, about the big things, the things that add up, that snowball, that grow and grow until that one white lie becomes a giant wall of ice. It should be cold. Feel cold. But the slicing open of your pride is hot and fiery, a slow burning trail of glowing orange magma that you can't stop, and it leaves a trail of ash behind that you can taste in your mouth for far longer than you want to."
Oh, dear LORD don't even get me started on that. I was full on SOBBING when the whole "betrayal" moment went down. When an author can have you laughing your butt off on one page, clenching your thighs together on the next, and then full on ugly crying just a few chapters later? Well, that's when you know you're not just reading any book -- you're reading an extraordinary one.
I really don't have the right words to sum up The Ex Effect and my ultimate love for Karla Sorensen as a writer. All I can say is that if you've slept on her up until this point? Now's the time to dive into her work. And if you've become acquainted with her work but you aren't sold yet? Let this book be the one to seal the deal. And, if you're like me -- an avid Karla Sorensen fan needing your fix -- then never fear, my child. The Ex Effect will be the sweetest hit, and just like any other drug, it'll leave you begging for more.
Football and angst lovers will rejoice at the fresh, heart-pounding story within these pages. This is romance at its finest, and writing at its best. Sign me up for a Washington Wolves jersey, only I don't want Hawkins on the back -- I want Sorensen. This is my official declaration of #1 Fan. Now... BRING ON THE NEXT GAME. #DibsOnLogan #GiveMeMyBroodyBoy
And Karla Sorensen is one of them.
Fortunately, I was able to read an early copy of this one (probably because I was OB-FREAKING-SESSED with The Bombshell Effect and not-so-subtly begging for more from the other characters in this world). And once again, Sorensen has completely blown me away.
The Ex Effect has everything I love in a romance. It's steamy and hilarious, but it also tugs on my heart strings in just the right way. And with the "he used to date my sister" drama underlining the entire plot? Um... CAN WE JUST HOLD HANDS AND REJOICE IN THE ANGST, PLEASE?! God! By the time these two finally kissed, I was so squirmy I might as well have been a fish out of water on a hot boat deck. WHEW. And man, that first kiss was worth waiting for. LE SIGH.
"Oh, I knew Matthew Hawkins all right. My sister's ex-fiancé, and the man I'd had a ridiculous crush on in high school. And now he was going to be one of the men in the locker room across the hall."
JUICY!
Also seriously, I want Ava's job. PR for a professional football team? YES, PLEASE. And if there's one thing I love about Ava's character, it's that she is the TITS at her job. I mean seriously, BAD A*S BI***. There's nothing I love more than a strong, fierce woman who can wrangle some men and make them respect her.
ANYWAY, back to the nature at hand.
So, one of my favorite things about reading any Karla Sorensen novel is that THIS. WOMAN. CAN. WRITE. Like... it absolutely blows my brains up. She is the ONLY author I can even think of who can tap into my attention from the very first paragraph and suck me into her world. There's just something about the colloquial way in which she tells her stories, the witty and intelligent way she delivers her jokes, the absolute honesty with which she attacks life's most sensitive and brutal subjects. It's mesmerizing, and there's nothing I love more than falling under Karla Sorensen's spell each and every time I open one of her books.
And again... THE ANGST.
"There's a line, and we're about to cross it. That's what I saw in his face. It wasn't really a question. No should we? The inevitability of it may have been made easier with the sweet slide of alcohol in our veins."
I loved the slow burn in the first part of this book -- the little looks, the misunderstood words, the lingering eyes... SIGH. I live for that, y'all. LIVE. FOR. IT. And it was done so well in this story. I loved how the past family issues really played into who the characters are today and why they struggled with giving in to each other. I mean, here's this poor girl who's always been in her sister's shadows, so you want to HATE her sister, right? But then it's like... damn, THAT poor girl had all that pressure from her parents. Which is worse? And is anyone really to blame?
For Matthew, his trust is hard to earn and even harder to keep after the way things went down with his ex. Maybe that's why I was biting my nails down to the nub as certain things were kept from him, even if they were done so without malicious intent. And that leads us to...
THE BLOW UP SCENE.
"That's the thing no one tells you about being lied to, about the big things, the things that add up, that snowball, that grow and grow until that one white lie becomes a giant wall of ice. It should be cold. Feel cold. But the slicing open of your pride is hot and fiery, a slow burning trail of glowing orange magma that you can't stop, and it leaves a trail of ash behind that you can taste in your mouth for far longer than you want to."
Oh, dear LORD don't even get me started on that. I was full on SOBBING when the whole "betrayal" moment went down. When an author can have you laughing your butt off on one page, clenching your thighs together on the next, and then full on ugly crying just a few chapters later? Well, that's when you know you're not just reading any book -- you're reading an extraordinary one.
I really don't have the right words to sum up The Ex Effect and my ultimate love for Karla Sorensen as a writer. All I can say is that if you've slept on her up until this point? Now's the time to dive into her work. And if you've become acquainted with her work but you aren't sold yet? Let this book be the one to seal the deal. And, if you're like me -- an avid Karla Sorensen fan needing your fix -- then never fear, my child. The Ex Effect will be the sweetest hit, and just like any other drug, it'll leave you begging for more.
Football and angst lovers will rejoice at the fresh, heart-pounding story within these pages. This is romance at its finest, and writing at its best. Sign me up for a Washington Wolves jersey, only I don't want Hawkins on the back -- I want Sorensen. This is my official declaration of #1 Fan. Now... BRING ON THE NEXT GAME. #DibsOnLogan #GiveMeMyBroodyBoy
December 5, 2018
If you’re looking for a sports romance that’s sweet yet angsty, this is the book!
Agh. These two. Such a sweet romance between two people who have such natural chemistry with each other, and yet everything is somehow so complicated. I LOVED Ava & Matthew. I swear I was rooting for them even with everything they had in their way. This is the perfect football romance, with just the right amount of angst.
If you’re not reading this series. You should be. The first book and this one are such good reads!!
Also. What do I have to do to ensure Logie baby gets a book? I’m a sucker for the broody silent types. Don’t leave me or him hanging!! Maybe a certain sassy model will do him right??? Hmm.
Agh. These two. Such a sweet romance between two people who have such natural chemistry with each other, and yet everything is somehow so complicated. I LOVED Ava & Matthew. I swear I was rooting for them even with everything they had in their way. This is the perfect football romance, with just the right amount of angst.
If you’re not reading this series. You should be. The first book and this one are such good reads!!
Also. What do I have to do to ensure Logie baby gets a book? I’m a sucker for the broody silent types. Don’t leave me or him hanging!! Maybe a certain sassy model will do him right??? Hmm.
October 1, 2021
4-
Rispetto al primo ,qui mi è mancato qualcosa. C'è stata meno verve, rispetto al precedente. Adesso però passo a quello di Logan e Paige 🤩
Rispetto al primo ,qui mi è mancato qualcosa. C'è stata meno verve, rispetto al precedente. Adesso però passo a quello di Logan e Paige 🤩
January 12, 2020
"I want to wake up every single day knowing that you're there, that I get to be there for you, and that I can love you through anything we might face because I know you'll do the same for me."
I liked this one a little bit more than the first book! I love Matthew and Ava together. Their little moments before they got together in the book are so cute.
On another note, I found Logan Ward quite charming in this one since he has more scenes as compared to the first book. I can’t wait to get to know him more! Luckily, his book is next!!
October 14, 2021
3,5
"Perché è quando cerchiamo di rendere qualcuno diverso da quello che è in realtà, che restiamo delusi."
Da questo tipo di libri mi aspetto sempre la stessa cosa: passare ore spensierate e piacevoli. Nemmeno stavolta sono rimasta delusa, si profilava un piccolo impedimento all'orizzonte, ma con un pochino di tenacia e imposizione della protagonista femminile poteva tranquillamente essere evitato.
L'unica cosa, rispetto al primo, l'ho trovato più sottotono. Sarà che mancano i siparietti comici che nella storia precedente rendevano il tutto più leggero, ma è un po' più lento.
E ora mi aspetta l'ultima storia che mi aspetto "frizzante"!
"Perché è quando cerchiamo di rendere qualcuno diverso da quello che è in realtà, che restiamo delusi."
Da questo tipo di libri mi aspetto sempre la stessa cosa: passare ore spensierate e piacevoli. Nemmeno stavolta sono rimasta delusa, si profilava un piccolo impedimento all'orizzonte, ma con un pochino di tenacia e imposizione della protagonista femminile poteva tranquillamente essere evitato.
L'unica cosa, rispetto al primo, l'ho trovato più sottotono. Sarà che mancano i siparietti comici che nella storia precedente rendevano il tutto più leggero, ma è un po' più lento.
E ora mi aspetta l'ultima storia che mi aspetto "frizzante"!
November 29, 2019
Queste sono le storie che mi rimettono in pace con il mondo!
Due personaggi articolati che vorrebbero iniziare una relazione senza tante rotture di scatole, ma le rotture, ahimè, sono come l'erba cattiva sia nella vita che nei romanzi!
Ho adorato Matthew! A dire la verità adoro leggere di uomini come lui: inquadrati sull'obiettivo e senza tanti fronzoli per la testa.
Ava... a volte avrei voluta strozzarla, ma a sua discolpa posso dire che non si è ritrovata per nulla in una bella situazione!
Stile fluido e accattivante. Ottima cura del testo.
STRAconsigliato.
Due personaggi articolati che vorrebbero iniziare una relazione senza tante rotture di scatole, ma le rotture, ahimè, sono come l'erba cattiva sia nella vita che nei romanzi!
Ho adorato Matthew! A dire la verità adoro leggere di uomini come lui: inquadrati sull'obiettivo e senza tanti fronzoli per la testa.
Ava... a volte avrei voluta strozzarla, ma a sua discolpa posso dire che non si è ritrovata per nulla in una bella situazione!
Stile fluido e accattivante. Ottima cura del testo.
STRAconsigliato.
December 3, 2018
I LOVED THIS BOOK. If I could scream it any more I would. This story was seriously a romance lovers dream.
I get so tired of books with the back and fourth and by the time you’ve read half he book nobody has actually said how they feel, or what they want. I got none of that with this AMAZING ROMANCE STORY.
Matthew is coming out of football retirement. He hasn’t won all the trophies so to speak, so he’s coming back in a big way. Ava is the head of PR. Football players are scared of her, she’s fierce, lethal, her job is her life, nothing and no one comes between it. Until Matthew, the man she hasn’t seen or crushed over walks back into her life after 10 years.
These too, I can just read this story again and again. They were perfect. The attraction, the lust. The friendship. I loved the build up. I loved how there were no games being played, just in your face this is what I want, and now. Ava has trust issues but Matthew will do about anything and on her time.
The ROMANCE. THE FEELS. I swear I fell in love over and over again.
Oh, and the FOOTBALL. These players and there game, there tights, those weight room scenes. . Waaaaahh, I devoured every aspect of this angsty love story.
Karla you did it again. Keep these phenomenal romances coming my way.
I get so tired of books with the back and fourth and by the time you’ve read half he book nobody has actually said how they feel, or what they want. I got none of that with this AMAZING ROMANCE STORY.
Matthew is coming out of football retirement. He hasn’t won all the trophies so to speak, so he’s coming back in a big way. Ava is the head of PR. Football players are scared of her, she’s fierce, lethal, her job is her life, nothing and no one comes between it. Until Matthew, the man she hasn’t seen or crushed over walks back into her life after 10 years.
These too, I can just read this story again and again. They were perfect. The attraction, the lust. The friendship. I loved the build up. I loved how there were no games being played, just in your face this is what I want, and now. Ava has trust issues but Matthew will do about anything and on her time.
The ROMANCE. THE FEELS. I swear I fell in love over and over again.
Oh, and the FOOTBALL. These players and there game, there tights, those weight room scenes. . Waaaaahh, I devoured every aspect of this angsty love story.
Karla you did it again. Keep these phenomenal romances coming my way.
December 22, 2018
I absolutely loved this story. Definitely recommend if you're looking for smart and funny with a dash of hot!
Ava is a fantastic character - believable, relatable and seriously funny. I felt very protective of her and wanted to seriously smack her sister in the head (a lot). Matthew - well he is Delicious with a capital D. The best kind of sport romance hero. Their story is complicated by their shared history and the baggage both of them have from their pasts. But who wants an easy love story - not me!
Their connection was genuine, their chemistry was seriously hot and although the "heat" factor of this one is lower than what I usually read it was definitely HOT!
Add in some intriguing side characters (who I'm hoping get stories of their own) and you've got an awesome read.
I beta read this book.
Ava is a fantastic character - believable, relatable and seriously funny. I felt very protective of her and wanted to seriously smack her sister in the head (a lot). Matthew - well he is Delicious with a capital D. The best kind of sport romance hero. Their story is complicated by their shared history and the baggage both of them have from their pasts. But who wants an easy love story - not me!
Their connection was genuine, their chemistry was seriously hot and although the "heat" factor of this one is lower than what I usually read it was definitely HOT!
Add in some intriguing side characters (who I'm hoping get stories of their own) and you've got an awesome read.
I beta read this book.
January 15, 2022
3.5
This was a fun and quick read. I didn’t love it as much as Book one, but it retained a lot of that same humour that I utterly adored!!
I think the main issue is that there is a lot of… well, not miscommunication but more so… avoidance of conflict. The love interests skate around an issue the whole book and it finally bubbles over in the final act. It was just super drawn out and I didn’t like the messy addition of an unrequited crush side character.
I did love seeing Ava learn to stick up for herself against her family and put her foot down for her own love. Plus Matthew is such a sweetie!! Even though he was treated like craaaap in the past, he opens his heart to her freely.
I cannot wait for the third book though… fake marriage? Yes!
This was a fun and quick read. I didn’t love it as much as Book one, but it retained a lot of that same humour that I utterly adored!!
I think the main issue is that there is a lot of… well, not miscommunication but more so… avoidance of conflict. The love interests skate around an issue the whole book and it finally bubbles over in the final act. It was just super drawn out and I didn’t like the messy addition of an unrequited crush side character.
I did love seeing Ava learn to stick up for herself against her family and put her foot down for her own love. Plus Matthew is such a sweetie!! Even though he was treated like craaaap in the past, he opens his heart to her freely.
I cannot wait for the third book though… fake marriage? Yes!
January 23, 2022
Heroine was infuriating, letting her family walk all over her and she kept creating more unnecessary drama. It was also quite weird since she fake dated a guy who wasn't the hero?? Lol idk, but his book is next and it's marriage of convenience so I'm game.
December 6, 2018
I can’t believe this is my first book by Karla. CANNOT BELIEVE IT. She had me intrigued with The Ex Effect from the first teaser she dropped announcing it. It's the second book in Washington Wolves series, and I have to note that I didn’t feel lost at all. I've not read The Bombshell Effect yet, but you can bet I'll be doing it soon. Very, very soon...along with everything else on Karla's backlist.
Like I said, I was intrigued by this book from the start. I mean, sisters ex-boyfriend?! I could picture the drama, feel the angst, and that oh-so beautiful forbidden aspect in stories I love. So, I’ll just say, I. WAS. HERE. FOR. IT. All of it. And loved seeing how it all played out!
Matthew Hawkins and Ava were PERFECTION. Their chemistry was explosive. I loved learning about their past — the connection they seemed to have always shared. How he was always in Ava's corner, and vice versa. Their bond unique, beautiful, sweet. And can we talk about the "butterfly moments," please?! Them seeing each for the first time in years, and that cab scene. OMG! I could cry happy tears from how much I loved that scene! I was dying and so very much hooked on the “feels” it gave me. I love those moments and their story — although at times challenging — was packed with so many!
Sports romance lovers, this is a must read! Swoony, heart pumping, butterfly inducing romance at it's finest. I’m still very much wrapped up in The Ex Effect!
Like I said, I was intrigued by this book from the start. I mean, sisters ex-boyfriend?! I could picture the drama, feel the angst, and that oh-so beautiful forbidden aspect in stories I love. So, I’ll just say, I. WAS. HERE. FOR. IT. All of it. And loved seeing how it all played out!
Matthew Hawkins and Ava were PERFECTION. Their chemistry was explosive. I loved learning about their past — the connection they seemed to have always shared. How he was always in Ava's corner, and vice versa. Their bond unique, beautiful, sweet. And can we talk about the "butterfly moments," please?! Them seeing each for the first time in years, and that cab scene. OMG! I could cry happy tears from how much I loved that scene! I was dying and so very much hooked on the “feels” it gave me. I love those moments and their story — although at times challenging — was packed with so many!
Sports romance lovers, this is a must read! Swoony, heart pumping, butterfly inducing romance at it's finest. I’m still very much wrapped up in The Ex Effect!
November 18, 2019
Ava Baker ha lottato duramente per potersi affermare nel mondo del lavoro, soprattutto per essere libera di proseguire con il percorso di studi che voleva, ed ora, nonostante la sua famiglia la volesse medico a tutti i costi, è la pr della squadra di football Washington Wolves. Mattehw Hawkins è un defensive end molto famoso, ma dopo un infortunio grave la sua squadra ha deciso di non rinnovargli il contratto e verrà così ceduto proprio agli Washington Wolves. Fin qui nulla di trascendentale, se non fosse che al momento delle presentazioni ufficiali i nostri due protagonisti scopriranno di non essere degli sconosciuti, Mattehw è infatti l’ex fidanzato della sorella di Ava, per cui la stessa ha sempre provato qualcosa in più di una semplice amicizia. Dopo dieci anni i sentimenti di lei saranno ricambiati o continuerà a vederla come una ragazzina?
Che ve lo dico a fare? Il codice delle ragazze viene infranto sin dal principio, la trama quindi può piacere o no, ma l’autrice è comunque capace a mantenere vivo l’interesse del lettore fino alla fine, senza enormi scossoni, ma brava nell’innestare curiosità. Una storia semplice (per quanto possibile visto l’argomento) e lineare, di quelle che inizi e sai già come andranno a finire ma comunque piacevole.
Che ve lo dico a fare? Il codice delle ragazze viene infranto sin dal principio, la trama quindi può piacere o no, ma l’autrice è comunque capace a mantenere vivo l’interesse del lettore fino alla fine, senza enormi scossoni, ma brava nell’innestare curiosità. Una storia semplice (per quanto possibile visto l’argomento) e lineare, di quelle che inizi e sai già come andranno a finire ma comunque piacevole.
December 5, 2018
oh lord, this book. Just wow.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Sports romance’s are my absolute weakness so I knew without a doubt I had to read this and I’m so freaking glad I did because FEELS SO MANY FEELS.
I loved Ava’s badass ways and I loved how amazing Matthew was and gahhh I’m in love!
It’s steamy, fun and an absolute joy to read. So many feels for my poor heart to handle. They amount they have to go through, the complications, just everything that happens just wraps together perfectly and creates a masterpiece.
Matthew and Ava’s relationship is one I couldn’t help but love. The whole “my sisters ex” storyline was damn right amazing, one of my absolute favourites especially when it’s surrounded by angst like this beauty was.
Karla Sorensen is an incredible writer. I was hooked on this story from the very first page, waiting to see what these characters would get up to next.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Sports romance’s are my absolute weakness so I knew without a doubt I had to read this and I’m so freaking glad I did because FEELS SO MANY FEELS.
I loved Ava’s badass ways and I loved how amazing Matthew was and gahhh I’m in love!
It’s steamy, fun and an absolute joy to read. So many feels for my poor heart to handle. They amount they have to go through, the complications, just everything that happens just wraps together perfectly and creates a masterpiece.
Matthew and Ava’s relationship is one I couldn’t help but love. The whole “my sisters ex” storyline was damn right amazing, one of my absolute favourites especially when it’s surrounded by angst like this beauty was.
Karla Sorensen is an incredible writer. I was hooked on this story from the very first page, waiting to see what these characters would get up to next.
January 17, 2022
J'ai bien aimé cette romance qui reste dans le même ton que le premier tome de la saga.
L'alchimie est bien présente entre les protagonistes, c'est plaisant à lire. L'attraction sexuelle entre les personnes l'est tout autant.
L'histoire n'a rien d'exceptionnelle, mais elle vaut le coup d'être lue si on a besoin d'un peu d'évasion et une lecture cocooning.
La plume de l'auteure est fluide et agréable à lire.
Je recommande sans hésiter.
L'alchimie est bien présente entre les protagonistes, c'est plaisant à lire. L'attraction sexuelle entre les personnes l'est tout autant.
L'histoire n'a rien d'exceptionnelle, mais elle vaut le coup d'être lue si on a besoin d'un peu d'évasion et une lecture cocooning.
La plume de l'auteure est fluide et agréable à lire.
Je recommande sans hésiter.
avoid
March 20, 2023self note - avoid
so many pet peeves.
sisters sharing penis.
idiot h pining for him for years, while he's dating, fucking and is engaged to her own sister.
Cheating with her sister's fiance
Then H's marries another woman, divorces, has more ow after, but the h remained completely celibate for YEARS.
so many pet peeves.
sisters sharing penis.
idiot h pining for him for years, while he's dating, fucking and is engaged to her own sister.
Cheating with her sister's fiance
Then H's marries another woman, divorces, has more ow after, but the h remained completely celibate for YEARS.
December 6, 2018
One word: MATTHEW!!!!!!
December 8, 2018
I really enjoyed this. It's a bit of an unusual read for me, there are a lot of things in this book that I usually shy away from. Well, not a lot. Just two. First, that the hero sleeps with both sisters. Years apart, but still. Normally, I'd think that's pretty gross. But it worked here. Honestly, it did.
Okay, it's still a little gross. Only because I'm that person. You know, the one that thinks about it too hard and is like "Ew. They both know what he looks like naked. They both know what it's like to have sex with him. How do you not compare yourself to your sister? Wonder who's better in bed? How does he not automatically, probably inadvertently, compare them to each other?" Maybe it's because the only sibling I have is a brother, making something like this a non-issue, but the entire idea fascinates me. And grosses me out.
The other being that it's the heroine who fucks up. She's the one that has to grovel and think up a grand gesture. It's not like I stop reading a book if this is the case, it's just not something I enjoy all that much. I need it to be a really, really, understandable fuck up. I need it to be a it could happen to someone else/just let her explain/it's not what you think kind of thing. I want to relate to the heroine, not hate her.
Plot: Matthew was once engaged to Ava's older sister. Despite the fact that Ava's own family (sister included) treated her like shit and ignored her, Matthew was always kind to her. Treated her not just like a human being, but a friend. Ava loved him for this, but Matthew didn't see her that way, she was his fiance's little sister. One day, Matthew catches Ava's sister cheating on him. Even as he's leaving, full of anger, he's still kind to Ava. Fast forward to a few years later, Ava is the publicist for a football team and they happen to sign Matthew. Ava's crush is back with a vengeance, but now it's no longer one-sided. She's not just the little sister anymore. From there we have the murky waters of a professional/dating relationship and the awkwardness of dating your cheating ex's little sister. Let the drama ensue!
This book was just so much fun. Matthew was the true definition of swoon-worthy. Absolutely nothing wrong with him but not in a completely unrealistic he must be a unicorn kind of way. Well, maybe a little. Gorgeous? Yup. Rich? Hello, professional athlete. Polite? Check. Kind? To a fault. Smart? Uh huh. Good in bed? 100% Will defend you no matter what? Sigh. Yes. Put that all together...
So okay, fine. Unicorn. There are worse things in a romance novel.
I even loved that Matthew had been previously married (not to Ava's sister). He was a wealthy, ambitious, well-educated, thirty-something celebrity status athlete who wasn't afraid of commitment. Why wouldn't he? The fact that he'd been married previously did not make his relationship with Ava any less romantic. I feel like most authors imagine that it's more romantic if the hero only decides to marry after meeting the heroine. Sure, it can be. But it shouldn't be a rule. Maybe it's just the books I read, but I don't think I've ever come across a hero who had been married without it resulting in a child or making the hero a widower. It's always a plot device, never just a part of the character's past. Here, it was a part of Matthew's past, something that shaped who he was. I loved that.
Ava and Matthew had great chemistry. The fact that they had a backstory and knew each other pretty well prevented any kind of instalove. There was already friendship there. They were both a little broken, Matthew having been cheated on, Ava having a shitty family who I hated and wanted to smack the hell out of. I wanted Matthew and Ava to be together. I was rooting for them. Sure, I could see what the main conflict was going to be before it happened, but instead of it bothering me, I just kept reading, thinking Oh god no, she's going to....and he's going to...oh god no don't look! Wait, oooh he's going to think...Why are you? She going to think... No don't do that!
It had a healthy dose of what I like to call Angst Lite ™ Just enough to have your heart pounding, not enough to make it a stressful read.
As far as the writing goes, I have no complaints. It wasn't out of this world amazing, but it didn't really need to be. It was great escapism and super romantic. The only reason I knocked off a star is that in the grand scheme of things, I think this is going to be forgettable. It was a blast to read but this isn't something I'm going to pull out on a rainy day. Yes, I literally have a shelf called "rainy day romance" because, to me, that's a thing. I did love this book, it was just a little generic. In fact, if you notice I never named Ava's sister in this review it's because I can't remember her name. But that's okay. The plot was adorable, the chemistry was off the charts, and the hero was a swoon-worthy sweetheart. What's not to love?
Okay, it's still a little gross. Only because I'm that person. You know, the one that thinks about it too hard and is like "Ew. They both know what he looks like naked. They both know what it's like to have sex with him. How do you not compare yourself to your sister? Wonder who's better in bed? How does he not automatically, probably inadvertently, compare them to each other?" Maybe it's because the only sibling I have is a brother, making something like this a non-issue, but the entire idea fascinates me. And grosses me out.
The other being that it's the heroine who fucks up. She's the one that has to grovel and think up a grand gesture. It's not like I stop reading a book if this is the case, it's just not something I enjoy all that much. I need it to be a really, really, understandable fuck up. I need it to be a it could happen to someone else/just let her explain/it's not what you think kind of thing. I want to relate to the heroine, not hate her.
Plot: Matthew was once engaged to Ava's older sister. Despite the fact that Ava's own family (sister included) treated her like shit and ignored her, Matthew was always kind to her. Treated her not just like a human being, but a friend. Ava loved him for this, but Matthew didn't see her that way, she was his fiance's little sister. One day, Matthew catches Ava's sister cheating on him. Even as he's leaving, full of anger, he's still kind to Ava. Fast forward to a few years later, Ava is the publicist for a football team and they happen to sign Matthew. Ava's crush is back with a vengeance, but now it's no longer one-sided. She's not just the little sister anymore. From there we have the murky waters of a professional/dating relationship and the awkwardness of dating your cheating ex's little sister. Let the drama ensue!
This book was just so much fun. Matthew was the true definition of swoon-worthy. Absolutely nothing wrong with him but not in a completely unrealistic he must be a unicorn kind of way. Well, maybe a little. Gorgeous? Yup. Rich? Hello, professional athlete. Polite? Check. Kind? To a fault. Smart? Uh huh. Good in bed? 100% Will defend you no matter what? Sigh. Yes. Put that all together...
So okay, fine. Unicorn. There are worse things in a romance novel.
I even loved that Matthew had been previously married (not to Ava's sister). He was a wealthy, ambitious, well-educated, thirty-something celebrity status athlete who wasn't afraid of commitment. Why wouldn't he? The fact that he'd been married previously did not make his relationship with Ava any less romantic. I feel like most authors imagine that it's more romantic if the hero only decides to marry after meeting the heroine. Sure, it can be. But it shouldn't be a rule. Maybe it's just the books I read, but I don't think I've ever come across a hero who had been married without it resulting in a child or making the hero a widower. It's always a plot device, never just a part of the character's past. Here, it was a part of Matthew's past, something that shaped who he was. I loved that.
Ava and Matthew had great chemistry. The fact that they had a backstory and knew each other pretty well prevented any kind of instalove. There was already friendship there. They were both a little broken, Matthew having been cheated on, Ava having a shitty family who I hated and wanted to smack the hell out of. I wanted Matthew and Ava to be together. I was rooting for them. Sure, I could see what the main conflict was going to be before it happened, but instead of it bothering me, I just kept reading, thinking Oh god no, she's going to....and he's going to...oh god no don't look! Wait, oooh he's going to think...Why are you? She going to think... No don't do that!
It had a healthy dose of what I like to call Angst Lite ™ Just enough to have your heart pounding, not enough to make it a stressful read.
As far as the writing goes, I have no complaints. It wasn't out of this world amazing, but it didn't really need to be. It was great escapism and super romantic. The only reason I knocked off a star is that in the grand scheme of things, I think this is going to be forgettable. It was a blast to read but this isn't something I'm going to pull out on a rainy day. Yes, I literally have a shelf called "rainy day romance" because, to me, that's a thing. I did love this book, it was just a little generic. In fact, if you notice I never named Ava's sister in this review it's because I can't remember her name. But that's okay. The plot was adorable, the chemistry was off the charts, and the hero was a swoon-worthy sweetheart. What's not to love?
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