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Love Games #1
Hate the Game
Talon Gold is a lot of things: good at football, bad at love. Obsessed with scoring, refuses to play by the rules. Cruel. Relentless. Brilliant. Intoxicatingly attractive.
Despite his demanding reputation and propensity for being the most arrogant a-hole ever to strut Pacific Valley University’s picturesque campus, everyone wants a piece of him: coaches, scouts, and pretty little campus fangirls with pouty lips and perfect top knots.
But Talon … he only wants a piece of me.
And four straight years of infuriating rejection means I’m almost positive he’d take a night with me over a national championship trophy.
But I’m no fool—he only wants me because he can’t have me. And with graduation approaching, time is running out. He’s more desperate than ever, pulling out all the stops and doing everything in his power to get in my good graces.
They say, “Don’t hate the player, hate the game.”
But to that I say, “Why not both?”
I have my reasons ...
Sorry, BMOC. This victory? Not going to happen.
Despite his demanding reputation and propensity for being the most arrogant a-hole ever to strut Pacific Valley University’s picturesque campus, everyone wants a piece of him: coaches, scouts, and pretty little campus fangirls with pouty lips and perfect top knots.
But Talon … he only wants a piece of me.
And four straight years of infuriating rejection means I’m almost positive he’d take a night with me over a national championship trophy.
But I’m no fool—he only wants me because he can’t have me. And with graduation approaching, time is running out. He’s more desperate than ever, pulling out all the stops and doing everything in his power to get in my good graces.
They say, “Don’t hate the player, hate the game.”
But to that I say, “Why not both?”
I have my reasons ...
Sorry, BMOC. This victory? Not going to happen.
280 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2019
3458 people are currently reading
2403 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
February 28, 2021
An ordinary college romance with a bit of sports touch to it.
*********************************************
The heroine, Irie, is kinda annoying. The hero, Talon, goes after her for 4 years. He chases her, asks her out and she keeps saying No to him, thinking he is a d*ck, an as*hole and a man-wh*re.
He is not!
Talon didn’t sleep with any girl in all those 4 years because all he wanted was her. She always rejected him and she was always so cold towards him. There was one incident on his freshman year; he got intimate with one girl but he couldn’t go all the way, he didn’t have sex with her. And then, he never touched any other girl. He always wanted Irie, no one else. He kept hoping and hoping...
And for all those 4 years, Irie kept rejecting Talon all the time, resisting her attraction to him. She dated other guys and slept with them but she never agreed to go out with Talon. She always made assumptions about him, never trying to get to know the real him.
*********************************************
In the second half of their last year at university, they find themselves as study partners in a class they both take and she gets to know the real guy behind the star quarterback.
Talon begs for one date… begs and begs… And finally, she says yes. It is an unforgettable date for her but she still says it was one date – no more! He begs and begs and then, she agrees to another date.
He also has to beg some more to date exclusively until she finally says yes.
It was annoying. She was annoying.
*********************************************
Irie sometimes gave a few hints about her past and her mistrust in footballers in her chapters but all she said was that she had a footballer boyfriend in the past and she was hurt badly in the end so she didn’t want it any more but she never said it to Talon. She never talked about her past with him. He knew nothing about her past life or her dating life. He just felt she was hurt before and he took things slowly. They were dating but they didn't have sex yet.
*********************************************
And one weekend, when they go to her hometown for her cousin’s wedding, they meet the “ex-boyfriend”, who is also invited to the wedding. Irie feels terrible when she meets him, she runs away crying and Talon runs after her. He tries to console her and finally she confesses what happened back then.
I was waiting for a certain kind of story; I had my own assumptions, but I was shocked at the story Irie told Talon, and I was like, “WTF??!!”
And I still ask, "What was the writer thinking?"
I may sound like a judgmental b*tch here but I did cringe at what happened back then. So sorry but I still cannot digest it for many reasons.
Here’s what happened:
That’s a big spoiler if you want to read the book so be forewarned.
So, maybe you may not feel the least bit of uncomfortable about this plot detail but I didn’t like it, so just putting the info here for those who may feel like me...
*********************************************
Talon never judges her; by the way, don't worry. He is an awesome guy. He always shows respect to her. He is angry with the ex-boyfriend. He even breaks his nose. Those bastards got away with what they did and it is infuriating and "a broken nose" is nothing near "good enough punishment" but it feels good because Talon did it.
*********************************************
As I said, nothing changes Talon's love for Irie. He keeps loving her more and more. Irie was always annoying so I didn’t understand what Talon loved about her but well, to each his own, I guess.
*********************************************
Well, after I got pissed and lost whatever interest I had in this book, I skimmed and scanned the rest of it.
Here is what else happens:
Talon does everything to keep Irie but she still wants to break things off because the contracts offered to them after the school ends are in different cities.
There are some evil plans of Talon's parents and they cause a short separation between the couple.
In the end, Talon persuades her to go with him and build a life together and she decides to leave her dream job for him. That was also an unnecessary plot detail that I didn’t like. Why did she need to do the sacrifice? Well whatever, I didn't care about the book anymore at that point...
*********************************************
All things considered, I didn’t enjoy my time with this book. Hope you enjoy it more if you ever decide to read it.
*********************************************
223 pages
Dual point of view
Mediocre writing
*********************************************
You can follow my instagram page from here
*********************************************
The heroine, Irie, is kinda annoying. The hero, Talon, goes after her for 4 years. He chases her, asks her out and she keeps saying No to him, thinking he is a d*ck, an as*hole and a man-wh*re.
He is not!
Talon didn’t sleep with any girl in all those 4 years because all he wanted was her. She always rejected him and she was always so cold towards him. There was one incident on his freshman year; he got intimate with one girl but he couldn’t go all the way, he didn’t have sex with her. And then, he never touched any other girl. He always wanted Irie, no one else. He kept hoping and hoping...
And for all those 4 years, Irie kept rejecting Talon all the time, resisting her attraction to him. She dated other guys and slept with them but she never agreed to go out with Talon. She always made assumptions about him, never trying to get to know the real him.
*********************************************
In the second half of their last year at university, they find themselves as study partners in a class they both take and she gets to know the real guy behind the star quarterback.
Talon begs for one date… begs and begs… And finally, she says yes. It is an unforgettable date for her but she still says it was one date – no more! He begs and begs and then, she agrees to another date.
He also has to beg some more to date exclusively until she finally says yes.
It was annoying. She was annoying.
*********************************************
Irie sometimes gave a few hints about her past and her mistrust in footballers in her chapters but all she said was that she had a footballer boyfriend in the past and she was hurt badly in the end so she didn’t want it any more but she never said it to Talon. She never talked about her past with him. He knew nothing about her past life or her dating life. He just felt she was hurt before and he took things slowly. They were dating but they didn't have sex yet.
*********************************************
And one weekend, when they go to her hometown for her cousin’s wedding, they meet the “ex-boyfriend”, who is also invited to the wedding. Irie feels terrible when she meets him, she runs away crying and Talon runs after her. He tries to console her and finally she confesses what happened back then.
I was waiting for a certain kind of story; I had my own assumptions, but I was shocked at the story Irie told Talon, and I was like, “WTF??!!”
And I still ask, "What was the writer thinking?"
I may sound like a judgmental b*tch here but I did cringe at what happened back then. So sorry but I still cannot digest it for many reasons.
Here’s what happened:
That’s a big spoiler if you want to read the book so be forewarned.
So, maybe you may not feel the least bit of uncomfortable about this plot detail but I didn’t like it, so just putting the info here for those who may feel like me...
*********************************************
Talon never judges her; by the way, don't worry. He is an awesome guy. He always shows respect to her. He is angry with the ex-boyfriend. He even breaks his nose. Those bastards got away with what they did and it is infuriating and "a broken nose" is nothing near "good enough punishment" but it feels good because Talon did it.
*********************************************
As I said, nothing changes Talon's love for Irie. He keeps loving her more and more. Irie was always annoying so I didn’t understand what Talon loved about her but well, to each his own, I guess.
*********************************************
Well, after I got pissed and lost whatever interest I had in this book, I skimmed and scanned the rest of it.
Here is what else happens:
Talon does everything to keep Irie but she still wants to break things off because the contracts offered to them after the school ends are in different cities.
There are some evil plans of Talon's parents and they cause a short separation between the couple.
In the end, Talon persuades her to go with him and build a life together and she decides to leave her dream job for him. That was also an unnecessary plot detail that I didn’t like. Why did she need to do the sacrifice? Well whatever, I didn't care about the book anymore at that point...
*********************************************
All things considered, I didn’t enjoy my time with this book. Hope you enjoy it more if you ever decide to read it.
*********************************************
223 pages
Dual point of view
Mediocre writing
*********************************************
You can follow my instagram page from here
April 14, 2021
"This victory? Not going to happen."
Famous last words, right? I knew it was going to happen. The pope knew it was going to happen. My nonexistant cat knew it was going to happen. We ALL knew it was going to happen.
What I didn't expect was that it'll be so easy. I think I would have liked this book a lot more if the blurb said something like "... [he's] doing everything in his power to get in my good graces. And I'm starting to believe that he means it." or "And I'm starting to warm up to him."
I don't know, anything other than the last few lines.
I won't lie, what drew me in was the last part and I'm not sure I would have read this book if the book description were different. And that was my main problem. The book didn't deliver what the blurb promised (or maybe what I expected?).
This book is fine on its own. Setting aside my problem I'd say this book is a quick and easy read. Nothing too heavy and their relationship progresses quite naturally.
But if you go in with the expectations that the heroine will resist and fight the hero every which way, you'll be disappointed. Everything was so EASY after the initial hurdle of getting her to go out with him (and I enjoyed that very much, thank you). But after that the heroine doesn't say no to him very often; she was more like a yes-sayer which I found rather disappointing. Didn't the description say something about her having reasons? Rationally, I know they have to get to know each other somehow, and this couldn't happen if the h didn't give in eventually. So I guess I'm a little conflicted. I don't know what I expected but it wasn't this. I think this is a decent/good book if you don't expect too much from the blurb.
**ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
***
For the people who've already read the book (SPOILER!)
October 9, 2019
Decided to read it once someone clarified some of the OW sexual info for me. Hero has been obsessed with heroine since he first met her. The author doesn’t do a really good job of explaining why he’s so obsessed with her, could have used more relationship development.
Anyway, it was sweet and he chases her from start to finish. It ends pretty quickly and I wish she hadn’t had to give up her career for him (even if it works out for her in the end) because ...I’m a feminist and I’d never do that. Lol.
Safety details
Anyway, it was sweet and he chases her from start to finish. It ends pretty quickly and I wish she hadn’t had to give up her career for him (even if it works out for her in the end) because ...I’m a feminist and I’d never do that. Lol.
Safety details
September 28, 2019
Talon, a star quarterback, has been smitten with Irie when he first laid eyes on her during there freshman year but she won't give him the time of day. Now that they are about to graduate, Talon is more than ever determined to ask Irie why couldn't she give him a chance.
Irie has been focused to finish college without any distraction named Talon. She's convinced that Talon only wants one thing from her that's why she ignored him ever since. Until that one fateful day, when they became a study partner. Finally, Talon has his opportunity to be near Irie and ask her out.
"Give me one date and if it's the worst date of your life ... I'll never bother you again," he says. "I swear on my life. On my career."
What happened next is something I did enjoy between these two. The storyline was well-written and had a good amount of romance. I fell completely in love with this story. Winter Renshaw is an author who writes books with engrossing characters and this book was no exception. I'm thoroughly entertained by Talon and Irie's story and if you want romance this is a must-read.
Note: ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2020
If you have seen my review of year 2020 on goodreads, you know that I made a resolution to not read trash romance books this year. I also said that this resolution would be the hardest to keep. Clearly, I am well aware of my weaknesses because I only lasted four days,
FOUR DAYS
, people. This book is the very definition of trash romance. It's basically a college romance with a misleading title that makes you to think that it's a sports romance? Like, the main character is a hotshot football player and does every stereotypical thing that a romance novel football player does BUT he doesn't actually play football. Not even once. And the female lead character has no personality whatsoever. Apparently, having a dramatic past makes up for the fact that she is basic and boring. The reveal about her past had me rolling my eyes. Also, I don't get why some authors try to make their female lead character look
special
by making every other female character in the book look trash? Like, why is it that everyone except the female lead is either dumb or lacks self-respect? Why does every girl has to throw herself at the guy? He is smoking hot, we get it. No need to shame the entire college female population to emphasis the fact. *rolls eyes*
Anyways, to sum up, this book sucks. Won't recommend it to anyone.
Anyways, to sum up, this book sucks. Won't recommend it to anyone.
September 29, 2019
Manho of sorts. That wasn’t even my biggest issue.
My biggest issue was the heroine that gave up her six-figure dream job to follow the hero to another town to play football. I thought it was selfish of the hero to asks her of this...more than once. And I thought it was very stupid of the heroine. He kept saying he couldn’t turn down his offer, like his job/dream was more important than hers just because he would be making more money.
The dude was already rich, he didn’t even need the million dollar contract and let’s not forget that he didn’t even like football anymore, but the heroine was excited and loved where she would have been working And her boss.
When is a guy going to give up his dream to follow a girl? because this patriarchal stuff his bs most of the time.
My biggest issue was the heroine that gave up her six-figure dream job to follow the hero to another town to play football. I thought it was selfish of the hero to asks her of this...more than once. And I thought it was very stupid of the heroine. He kept saying he couldn’t turn down his offer, like his job/dream was more important than hers just because he would be making more money.
The dude was already rich, he didn’t even need the million dollar contract and let’s not forget that he didn’t even like football anymore, but the heroine was excited and loved where she would have been working And her boss.
When is a guy going to give up his dream to follow a girl? because this patriarchal stuff his bs most of the time.
September 25, 2019
Not bad but not great either. What’s new? Hard to find a great one.
March 16, 2021
Do you love the chase?
The persistent, faithful hero?
College athlete stars?
Saying ugh every ten minutes you are reading?
A book so chock full of grand gestures and big feelings they render themselves meaningless?
Questioning why you finished?
(In 2021, I'm baffled to read a book that purposely discusses the pull out method in the absence of all other birth control in the heat of the moment? They were in a hotel? Like options exist. Just wild, and a little bit of a weird choice... An away trip I wouldn't be caught dead without condoms, c'mon. I pack like 10 extra pairs of undies but you can't find time to think "we might have sex?" Am I supposed to find this romantic? (Romantic is zipping it up and running to see if the hotel has any. And if not, run down the street to the gas station surely nextdoor?))
1.234667
The persistent, faithful hero?
College athlete stars?
Saying ugh every ten minutes you are reading?
A book so chock full of grand gestures and big feelings they render themselves meaningless?
Questioning why you finished?
(In 2021, I'm baffled to read a book that purposely discusses the pull out method in the absence of all other birth control in the heat of the moment? They were in a hotel? Like options exist. Just wild, and a little bit of a weird choice... An away trip I wouldn't be caught dead without condoms, c'mon. I pack like 10 extra pairs of undies but you can't find time to think "we might have sex?" Am I supposed to find this romantic? (Romantic is zipping it up and running to see if the hotel has any. And if not, run down the street to the gas station surely nextdoor?))
1.234667
September 27, 2019
Hate the game was a deliciously sexy NA football romance with all the feels. I enjoyed Talon and Irie's chemistry and loved how relentless Talon was in getting a chance with her. This story was sexy and engaging and I could not stop reading!
Star Quarterback, Talon Gold has always wanted a chance with Irie Davenport but his four year pursuit of her has always crashed and burned. But as new study buddy partners, Irie is forced to see a new side of Talon she never expected. But with secrets in her past and a tight fortress around her heart, Talon will have to pull out all the stops to win his forever girl.
I really enjoyed this story. The banter was great and I loved how determined Talon was in winning over Irie. He was swoony and sexy and just the most delicious thing. All together this was a fun and flirty first book in Renshaw's new standalone Love Games series! 4 stars! ~Ratula
Star Quarterback, Talon Gold has always wanted a chance with Irie Davenport but his four year pursuit of her has always crashed and burned. But as new study buddy partners, Irie is forced to see a new side of Talon she never expected. But with secrets in her past and a tight fortress around her heart, Talon will have to pull out all the stops to win his forever girl.
I really enjoyed this story. The banter was great and I loved how determined Talon was in winning over Irie. He was swoony and sexy and just the most delicious thing. All together this was a fun and flirty first book in Renshaw's new standalone Love Games series! 4 stars! ~Ratula
Want to read
September 25, 2019New release! Hate the Game is on sale for $0.99 (regular price will be $4.99) on Amazon today (9/25/2019)💞
October 7, 2019
Hmmm...
I love sport/college NA growing up kinda storylines...LOL (it's my weak spot I guess, right after the "enemies to lovers" trope LOL)
cause well, there's a "prooved-safe" outline for them all - a guy wants a girl, she doesn't want him, or she plays it hard to get, he's a manwhore, she's practically a virgin, nerdy shy (or she's sassy and stubborn and stands for herself thus making her very appealing to the guy as he sees her as a challenge) there's push and pull, bickering and banter, romance follows then angsty stuff is intricated cause well, there always should be some spicy, heart-beating-fast moment that will lead to some explanation and groveling then HEA
AND that's absolutely fine for me, I know what to seek and I know what I'll get...here, I got some of it but not really, there was smth missing, like all the parts mentioned above were misplaced during the story telling and didn't have the full impact on me...*sigh*
So, all in all, it could gave been better, but still enjoyable, light...
I love sport/college NA growing up kinda storylines...LOL (it's my weak spot I guess, right after the "enemies to lovers" trope LOL)
cause well, there's a "prooved-safe" outline for them all - a guy wants a girl, she doesn't want him, or she plays it hard to get, he's a manwhore, she's practically a virgin, nerdy shy (or she's sassy and stubborn and stands for herself thus making her very appealing to the guy as he sees her as a challenge) there's push and pull, bickering and banter, romance follows then angsty stuff is intricated cause well, there always should be some spicy, heart-beating-fast moment that will lead to some explanation and groveling then HEA
AND that's absolutely fine for me, I know what to seek and I know what I'll get...here, I got some of it but not really, there was smth missing, like all the parts mentioned above were misplaced during the story telling and didn't have the full impact on me...*sigh*
So, all in all, it could gave been better, but still enjoyable, light...
September 26, 2019
I really liked this story. I really liked how firm she was about not dating Talon. It was a well developed story with great characters. I really understood her stance once the whole story comes out. It seems real.
Acquiring athletes for the NFL is not accurate but I overlooked it.
I just really liked how this all played out and the extended HEA was cool.
Acquiring athletes for the NFL is not accurate but I overlooked it.
I just really liked how this all played out and the extended HEA was cool.
October 22, 2019
Nice and refreshing college romance
Hero ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heroine❤️❤️❤️(no V card 🙂) but first nerdy then involved in the past in a foursome .. well contradictory
Plot ❤️❤️❤️❤️(evil step father quite a cliche )
Steam ❤️❤️❤️
Really cute read she is not insta loving the big guy in college and he do not give up
Not predictable
Hero ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heroine❤️❤️❤️(no V card 🙂) but first nerdy then involved in the past in a foursome .. well contradictory
Plot ❤️❤️❤️❤️(evil step father quite a cliche )
Steam ❤️❤️❤️
Really cute read she is not insta loving the big guy in college and he do not give up
Not predictable
September 30, 2019
Ugh the chick irritated me through the entire book. She was arrogant and condescending and just a bitch. I literally felt 0 connection with this couple and her past discrepancy was gross and completely not believable especially her attitude about it 👎🏻
September 26, 2019
Hate the Game by Winter Renshaw is a deliciously tempting college romance full of angst and drama, feels and sweet. Without giving anything away, Talon and Irie are both just amazing characters who will have you rooting for them together and separately.
Talon is a hot jock with a jerky attitude , determined to be the top dog on and off the field while Irie's the quiet girl- the one interested in finishing college and starting her career as an interior designer.
Theirs is a slow dance yet it's so worth it because Talon and Irie had so much chemistry and connection. Their journey towards a relationship ends up being the best read. Irie's past will pull on your heartstrings yet the HEA that comes together in this story is amazing!! The characters, plot and feels are fantastic!
My Rating: 4.7 stars ******
Talon is a hot jock with a jerky attitude , determined to be the top dog on and off the field while Irie's the quiet girl- the one interested in finishing college and starting her career as an interior designer.
Theirs is a slow dance yet it's so worth it because Talon and Irie had so much chemistry and connection. Their journey towards a relationship ends up being the best read. Irie's past will pull on your heartstrings yet the HEA that comes together in this story is amazing!! The characters, plot and feels are fantastic!
My Rating: 4.7 stars ******
October 9, 2019
2.5. This was a quick easy sweet read. Not complicated, not a lot of intensity or angst. I was thinking there would be more push-pull and a deeper emotional connection but it was relatively smooth sailing after the initial hurdle. There were some surprises and disappointments. Otherwise enjoyable but somewhat forgettable.
September 30, 2019
"Over the years, this has become a sort of game between us. Cat and mouse. Offense and defense. He’s tried every strategy in the book, but I’ve managed to stick to the one that always works— cold, coy, aloof, and uninterested."
You know when you see an author's name and just know they write good stories? Thats what I thought the moment I saw Winter Renshaw's name.... and how RIGHT I was. This was my very first read by her (I don't know how I've missed her up until now) and it has landed on both my TOP reads of 2019 and FAVS of ALL TIME. Not to mention, Talon Gold has fought his way up the book boyfriend list to the coveted Top 3. I am still in shock because sweet romance is not supposed to get me like this. Yet, this one totally did.
“You really think I’d rather be in there sucking Patron from some freshman’s belly button than sitting out here with you? Under the stars?”“Duh.” He brushes his shoulder against mine. “You’re out of your mind, Irie Davenport.”
Told in dual POV, this sweet standalone tells the story of the star QB with a pro future and the lucky lady who has been the center of his focus since the moment he first set eyes on her. Its a slow burning romance with a HEA (and extended epilogue). It contains no "dark" elements.
"Just as he has his reasons for wanting me, I have my reasons for not wanting him …… and my reasons are rooted deeper than he could possibly begin to understand."
Irie Davenport only has four months standing in the way between graduating and accepting her dream job in Malibu. Four more months of dodging the advances of the one guy on campus every girl wants, Talon Gold. He's "IT" on campus, the star QB with a Pro future and the most gorgeous man she's ever seen. She's been successful at turning him down for the past four years, what's a few more months right? Especially when her past has taught her all about his type and judging from what she's seen around campus, he's no different. He wants her because she is the only thing he can't have...... and she plans to graduate without giving in. But when they are partnered up in class, it is just the opportunity he needs......one she knows he's going to take FULL advantage of.
“Someone else?” he repeats harder, as though my suggestion disgusts him. “Irie, there is no one else. There’s only you. There’s only ever been you.”
From the outside, Talon Gold has it all.....popularity, the looks, the money, and a $35 million Pro contract waiting on him. He has girls lining up to be with him, but there is only one for him.....Irie Davenport. He'a spent FOUR years chasing after her, but he's about to up his game. She thinks he only wants one thing, he is going to prove to her just how wrong she is. He just wants one chance, one date. One unforgettable night...... that's all it will take to show her that he's worth the risk. And if he gets that chance? Well, hes in it for the long haul......to show her playing in the pros won't be enough if she's not by his side.
“Tell me what it’s going to take to tear down this fucking fortress you’ve built around yourself,” he says. “And while you’re at it, tell me who put it there so I can kick his fucking ass.”
But can Irie get past her reservations and give him a chance? And can he prove to her he isn't like all those other players?
“You make it sound so nice,” I say. “But there’s still a missing piece to all of that.”“You don’t have to love football now. You can learn to love it again.”“That’s not what I���m talking about, Irie,” I say. “You’re the missing piece in that beautiful picture you just painted.”
Let me just tell ya'll, Winter did a PHENOMENAL job with this book! From the plot, to the characters and their backstories; to their slow burning romance and the obstacles in their way......its all so perfectly written! She is able to create an authentic chemistry and connection between these two before they ever think about a sexual encounter. When authors look up the perfect example of slow burning romance, this should be right there! Its that GOOD!
“You drive me wild.” Talon’s lips curl into a smile against mine. “And I love every fucking minute of it.”
But my fav part of this book? Talon Gold. Whatever you expect from his character, throw that out the window. He is everything I typically don't like in a male lead (sweet, gentleman, etc) but my God did he steal my heart and reduce me to a puddle. He is perfection in every sense of the word, and perfect for Irie. I haven't been this enamored with a male lead since Knight Cole (from Broken Knight) and they couldn't be more polar opposites.
“My entire life, I was told to be a good ball player. You’re the only person who’s ever pushed me to be a good human being.”
Overall, this is an absolute MUST READ. From start to finish I couldn't get enough of these two. I found myself actively looking for something to reduce it to a 4 star read, but I absolutely could not. Its such a social read, one that will teach you all about the risks worth taking and following your heart even when the ride might be totally different than you planned. About misconceptions and judging a book by its cover. I LOVED it.....these two will hold a special place in my heart for a long time.
“I love you more than I’ve ever loved anything in the world,” I say. “And yet you barely know me.”“I know enough,” I say. “And imagine how much more I’m going to love you when I get to know the rest of you.”
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
You know when you see an author's name and just know they write good stories? Thats what I thought the moment I saw Winter Renshaw's name.... and how RIGHT I was. This was my very first read by her (I don't know how I've missed her up until now) and it has landed on both my TOP reads of 2019 and FAVS of ALL TIME. Not to mention, Talon Gold has fought his way up the book boyfriend list to the coveted Top 3. I am still in shock because sweet romance is not supposed to get me like this. Yet, this one totally did.
“You really think I’d rather be in there sucking Patron from some freshman’s belly button than sitting out here with you? Under the stars?”“Duh.” He brushes his shoulder against mine. “You’re out of your mind, Irie Davenport.”
Told in dual POV, this sweet standalone tells the story of the star QB with a pro future and the lucky lady who has been the center of his focus since the moment he first set eyes on her. Its a slow burning romance with a HEA (and extended epilogue). It contains no "dark" elements.
"Just as he has his reasons for wanting me, I have my reasons for not wanting him …… and my reasons are rooted deeper than he could possibly begin to understand."
Irie Davenport only has four months standing in the way between graduating and accepting her dream job in Malibu. Four more months of dodging the advances of the one guy on campus every girl wants, Talon Gold. He's "IT" on campus, the star QB with a Pro future and the most gorgeous man she's ever seen. She's been successful at turning him down for the past four years, what's a few more months right? Especially when her past has taught her all about his type and judging from what she's seen around campus, he's no different. He wants her because she is the only thing he can't have...... and she plans to graduate without giving in. But when they are partnered up in class, it is just the opportunity he needs......one she knows he's going to take FULL advantage of.
“Someone else?” he repeats harder, as though my suggestion disgusts him. “Irie, there is no one else. There’s only you. There’s only ever been you.”
From the outside, Talon Gold has it all.....popularity, the looks, the money, and a $35 million Pro contract waiting on him. He has girls lining up to be with him, but there is only one for him.....Irie Davenport. He'a spent FOUR years chasing after her, but he's about to up his game. She thinks he only wants one thing, he is going to prove to her just how wrong she is. He just wants one chance, one date. One unforgettable night...... that's all it will take to show her that he's worth the risk. And if he gets that chance? Well, hes in it for the long haul......to show her playing in the pros won't be enough if she's not by his side.
“Tell me what it’s going to take to tear down this fucking fortress you’ve built around yourself,” he says. “And while you’re at it, tell me who put it there so I can kick his fucking ass.”
But can Irie get past her reservations and give him a chance? And can he prove to her he isn't like all those other players?
“You make it sound so nice,” I say. “But there’s still a missing piece to all of that.”“You don’t have to love football now. You can learn to love it again.”“That’s not what I���m talking about, Irie,” I say. “You’re the missing piece in that beautiful picture you just painted.”
Let me just tell ya'll, Winter did a PHENOMENAL job with this book! From the plot, to the characters and their backstories; to their slow burning romance and the obstacles in their way......its all so perfectly written! She is able to create an authentic chemistry and connection between these two before they ever think about a sexual encounter. When authors look up the perfect example of slow burning romance, this should be right there! Its that GOOD!
“You drive me wild.” Talon’s lips curl into a smile against mine. “And I love every fucking minute of it.”
But my fav part of this book? Talon Gold. Whatever you expect from his character, throw that out the window. He is everything I typically don't like in a male lead (sweet, gentleman, etc) but my God did he steal my heart and reduce me to a puddle. He is perfection in every sense of the word, and perfect for Irie. I haven't been this enamored with a male lead since Knight Cole (from Broken Knight) and they couldn't be more polar opposites.
“My entire life, I was told to be a good ball player. You’re the only person who’s ever pushed me to be a good human being.”
Overall, this is an absolute MUST READ. From start to finish I couldn't get enough of these two. I found myself actively looking for something to reduce it to a 4 star read, but I absolutely could not. Its such a social read, one that will teach you all about the risks worth taking and following your heart even when the ride might be totally different than you planned. About misconceptions and judging a book by its cover. I LOVED it.....these two will hold a special place in my heart for a long time.
“I love you more than I’ve ever loved anything in the world,” I say. “And yet you barely know me.”“I know enough,” I say. “And imagine how much more I’m going to love you when I get to know the rest of you.”
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 24, 2019
I’ve gotta admit... this book is nothing like I expected it to be, but I loved it. Winter Renshaw’s writing is always great so I knew I was in for a good read, but this book is sweeter, cleaner, and lighter than I’ve come to expect from her books. It’s a New Adult romance with a hero you can’t help but fall for and I loved the journey.
The story follows a college senior and the star quarterback who has been pursuing her relentlessly since freshman year. Irie knows Talon only wants her because he can’t have her, so she feels no remorse continually turning him down despite her attraction to him. But when they take a class together in their last semester of college, everything changes. Irie starts to realize that Talon is one man on the surface and a completely different one when you dig deeper. Along the way, Talon and Irie discover that they have more in common than either could’ve expected.
I loved Talon; he makes this story what it is. His pursuit of Irie is so fun to read, because he knows that it will all be worth it once he succeeds. Sure, it started with him wanting to sleep with her, but you don’t pursue someone for four years without getting to know more about them and Talon likes everything he sees. It’s a slow burn, emotional romance that’s hard to put down. If you’re looking for a book that has a little of everything and a couple you can root for, I’d definitely recommend giving this a try.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout (then purchased it for my collection) and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story follows a college senior and the star quarterback who has been pursuing her relentlessly since freshman year. Irie knows Talon only wants her because he can’t have her, so she feels no remorse continually turning him down despite her attraction to him. But when they take a class together in their last semester of college, everything changes. Irie starts to realize that Talon is one man on the surface and a completely different one when you dig deeper. Along the way, Talon and Irie discover that they have more in common than either could’ve expected.
I loved Talon; he makes this story what it is. His pursuit of Irie is so fun to read, because he knows that it will all be worth it once he succeeds. Sure, it started with him wanting to sleep with her, but you don’t pursue someone for four years without getting to know more about them and Talon likes everything he sees. It’s a slow burn, emotional romance that’s hard to put down. If you’re looking for a book that has a little of everything and a couple you can root for, I’d definitely recommend giving this a try.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout (then purchased it for my collection) and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2019
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
Hate the Game by Winter Renshaw is a beautifully captivating slow burn new adult sports romance that had my heart all twisted up. Talon Gold and Irie Davenport were complete opposites, even if he knew she was the one that kept getting away. With college graduation upon them, neither one of them expect things to suddenly change, but one they did...there was no going back.
Winter Renshaw's storytelling ability always manages to captivate my attention and her character development makes me feel immediately connected to them. The love story of Talon and Irie made my heart ache from all the excitement and I was definitely rooting for these two right from the start. The chemistry between them was heartwarming and the build up towards their happily ever after was full of angst. Oh and the sweetness factor was on point, which had me swooning!
There hasn't been a single Winter Renshaw story that I haven't loved yet and this book was no exception! I seriously cannot wait to get my hands on her next story because I am ready for more!
Hate the Game by Winter Renshaw is a beautifully captivating slow burn new adult sports romance that had my heart all twisted up. Talon Gold and Irie Davenport were complete opposites, even if he knew she was the one that kept getting away. With college graduation upon them, neither one of them expect things to suddenly change, but one they did...there was no going back.
Winter Renshaw's storytelling ability always manages to captivate my attention and her character development makes me feel immediately connected to them. The love story of Talon and Irie made my heart ache from all the excitement and I was definitely rooting for these two right from the start. The chemistry between them was heartwarming and the build up towards their happily ever after was full of angst. Oh and the sweetness factor was on point, which had me swooning!
There hasn't been a single Winter Renshaw story that I haven't loved yet and this book was no exception! I seriously cannot wait to get my hands on her next story because I am ready for more!
October 22, 2019
Uggg....this book frustrated me. I did
like our hero Talon. He was sweet and
only ever wanted Irie. He was diabolical
in his pursuit of her and I really liked that.
He never gave up. Irie was so frustrating,
that I had a really hard time liking her.
She was wishy washy and boring, and
really unbelievable as a character. What
makes me really not like this book was
Irie's big reveal....what has molded her
into the woman she is today. The big
secret that stops her from having a
relationship with Talon. Drumroll.....
she had a 4 way with her ex, he
took pics, and dumped her. Then in
FINALLY explaining to Talon, she says
she loved it, made her feel free and loved,
but she was mad how it turned out, and
he is like ok, I want to kill him, and
that was it. I mean the author I think
threw this in for shock value, or so that
we could see Irie was so sexually liberated,
but it was stupid and did not fit her
character at all. I hated it and the only
reason I gave this a 2 is because of Talon.
like our hero Talon. He was sweet and
only ever wanted Irie. He was diabolical
in his pursuit of her and I really liked that.
He never gave up. Irie was so frustrating,
that I had a really hard time liking her.
She was wishy washy and boring, and
really unbelievable as a character. What
makes me really not like this book was
Irie's big reveal....what has molded her
into the woman she is today. The big
secret that stops her from having a
relationship with Talon. Drumroll.....
she had a 4 way with her ex, he
took pics, and dumped her. Then in
FINALLY explaining to Talon, she says
she loved it, made her feel free and loved,
but she was mad how it turned out, and
he is like ok, I want to kill him, and
that was it. I mean the author I think
threw this in for shock value, or so that
we could see Irie was so sexually liberated,
but it was stupid and did not fit her
character at all. I hated it and the only
reason I gave this a 2 is because of Talon.
May 22, 2021
Second read 21/05/21
Everythings happens faster than i remembered, but I still liked it.
Firts read 28/09/19
I really liked it, it was cute and easy to read. There wasn't much romance built up, there wasn't much character development either, at least that's how I felt it; The book could have been so much better, sooooo much more, but somehow I still liked it a lot, I mean it... a lot, so a 4 star reading to me.
Me gustó mucho, incluso cuando le faltaban tantas cosas y pudo haber sido mucho mejor. No sé cómo, but aggg lo disfruté mucho.
I love aunt Bette
“What is it about me that sends you running?”
“Everything.
“We can't be logical with an emotion that knows no logic.”
Talon, si si si si si... Book boyfriend
Everythings happens faster than i remembered, but I still liked it.
Firts read 28/09/19
I really liked it, it was cute and easy to read. There wasn't much romance built up, there wasn't much character development either, at least that's how I felt it; The book could have been so much better, sooooo much more, but somehow I still liked it a lot, I mean it... a lot, so a 4 star reading to me.
Me gustó mucho, incluso cuando le faltaban tantas cosas y pudo haber sido mucho mejor. No sé cómo, but aggg lo disfruté mucho.
I love aunt Bette
“What is it about me that sends you running?”
“Everything.
“We can't be logical with an emotion that knows no logic.”
Talon, si si si si si... Book boyfriend
September 26, 2019
Quick, easy college sports-related romance that pits two strong-willed college seniors against the other. He's all about the word "yes" and she's a definite "no" -- but wait a bit and it may turn into a "maybe." The norm college star quarterback on his way to a multi-million dollar NFL contract and the odd duck girl with a chance for a different life upon graduation -- one that doesn't include him. It's a wild romp with a little blast of angst and heartbreak -- a broken nose and a stepdad from hell. Yeah, it kept me turning the pages. And as you can probably surmise all on your own, the girl lets him catch her! Fun read with two really adorable main characters and a little auntie with a few tricks up her sleeve, too. Extra bonus with a fab Epilogue wrapped in a perfect HEA.
October 2, 2019
This was a good read. Irie and Talon are in college. She continuously rejects him. However, one night she starts to see he isn't the person everyone thinks he is. They end up dating but it's one of those short term because I'm leaving and you can't change my mind things. Once you read about her past it will be understandable. Although, his family life is messed up too. The important thing is in the end they get their HEA.
February 9, 2020
3.5/5 Stars
This book was brain fluff when I needed it most. It was easy to just sit and read it, cover to cover, without interruptions.
It wasn't an angsty story, it wasn't overly dramatic (although there was some drama), and it wasn't even that interesting. It was just a nice steady story about a superstar athlete who has wanted the one girl since he first laid eyes on her in their first year of college and the girl who has studiously avoided him, rejected him, and judged him without knowing him all because of her past bad experiences with football players.
In short, Talon was likeable but could be a bit of a dick to anyone who wasn't Irie, and Irie was a judgemental bitch who didn't entirely deserve him (and wasn't overly likeable) but somehow the story worked.
There were a few moments when I sat there genuinely wondering what the hell the author was thinking - like the reason Irie hated jocks - but beyond that, I liked it well enough and would read more of the author if something caught my eye but not enough to actively seek out more of the author's work.
This book was brain fluff when I needed it most. It was easy to just sit and read it, cover to cover, without interruptions.
It wasn't an angsty story, it wasn't overly dramatic (although there was some drama), and it wasn't even that interesting. It was just a nice steady story about a superstar athlete who has wanted the one girl since he first laid eyes on her in their first year of college and the girl who has studiously avoided him, rejected him, and judged him without knowing him all because of her past bad experiences with football players.
In short, Talon was likeable but could be a bit of a dick to anyone who wasn't Irie, and Irie was a judgemental bitch who didn't entirely deserve him (and wasn't overly likeable) but somehow the story worked.
There were a few moments when I sat there genuinely wondering what the hell the author was thinking - like the reason Irie hated jocks - but beyond that, I liked it well enough and would read more of the author if something caught my eye but not enough to actively seek out more of the author's work.
October 3, 2019
So Irie is never ever going to go out with college quarterback star Talon. Nope. Not ever. Ever I tell you. Then she does. The end.
This was a slightly angsty, college sports romance. Talon is the cocky jock. Irie is the not impressed studious geek girl. He chases her and persuades her to date him which I enjoyed.
It was very readable. Each character had their own history which was revealed over time and brought them closer together. I would say it lacked that lighthearted, college feel. These two had enough baggage to fill a U-haul.
Why only three stars?
Well the lack of actual sport in the book is one bugbear. I love the team camaraderie and the sporting lingo. I love their love of the game. Not really present here. It also lacked the college feel of young people enjoying themselves. But the real kicker is that I hate a storyline that involves the heroine compromising on her future because of a guy. Dick move. Not my thing.
It did however have a good HEA so it’s not all bad. It was an easy read at the end of the day which I enjoyed. I only knocked off stars for the few reasons above which probably wouldn’t bother everybody.
This was a slightly angsty, college sports romance. Talon is the cocky jock. Irie is the not impressed studious geek girl. He chases her and persuades her to date him which I enjoyed.
It was very readable. Each character had their own history which was revealed over time and brought them closer together. I would say it lacked that lighthearted, college feel. These two had enough baggage to fill a U-haul.
Why only three stars?
Well the lack of actual sport in the book is one bugbear. I love the team camaraderie and the sporting lingo. I love their love of the game. Not really present here. It also lacked the college feel of young people enjoying themselves. But the real kicker is that I hate a storyline that involves the heroine compromising on her future because of a guy. Dick move. Not my thing.
It did however have a good HEA so it’s not all bad. It was an easy read at the end of the day which I enjoyed. I only knocked off stars for the few reasons above which probably wouldn’t bother everybody.
October 15, 2019
This was a dnf for me. I’m sorry for the slut shaming, but here goes. I really resent the author for misleading us about the h. There are the random references to a big trauma that she had faced. All signs point to some kind of rape. The reader is deliberately made to think it was rape. At around 67% it’s revealed that the big trauma is that she voluntarily had a 4-way with her boyfriend and 2 guys on his team. She makes sure to state that it was “100% consensual” and that she “loved it” and “had never felt so desired”. The trauma is that “shockingly” one of them took some pictures and told people about it. So of course people slut shamed her. I don’t know how I would feel if that had randomly popped up in the story without all of the hints towards rape, but the fact that the author did that makes it impossible for me to ignore and/or to respect the h. I’m not a prude. I’ve read ménage stories, and even reverse harem and liked them, but this situation was not that. Rape is serious and should not be compared to what this character did. Such a shame, I was enjoying the book into this mess was revealed.
October 1, 2019
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
This is almost like a coming of age book where both characters have had hardships in their life, they just mask it to the world.
Irie has been hurt in her past by an ex-boyfriend who was on the football team, therefore when Talan showed an interest in her her Sophomore year she new that she would never reciprocate. Fast forward to four months until the end of college and although Talan has always tried to make advances she has always turned him down.
Talan has always had an eye for Irie and when he finds that he has a class with her he manages to be her partner and keeps pressing for more until she gives in.
Talan shows Irie what it is to be loved, he protects her and is there for her even when she wobbles. Both characters are strong, but together make each other stronger.
The ending is wonderfully optimistic and shows what can be done if you give in to trust the right person.
This is almost like a coming of age book where both characters have had hardships in their life, they just mask it to the world.
Irie has been hurt in her past by an ex-boyfriend who was on the football team, therefore when Talan showed an interest in her her Sophomore year she new that she would never reciprocate. Fast forward to four months until the end of college and although Talan has always tried to make advances she has always turned him down.
Talan has always had an eye for Irie and when he finds that he has a class with her he manages to be her partner and keeps pressing for more until she gives in.
Talan shows Irie what it is to be loved, he protects her and is there for her even when she wobbles. Both characters are strong, but together make each other stronger.
The ending is wonderfully optimistic and shows what can be done if you give in to trust the right person.
October 1, 2019
2.5 ⭐️
I read this book in one sitting, it was quick and easy to read.
But it was also really boring. I kept waiting for something to happen but no such luck. There was no connection between main characters. Irie was judgmental and completely unlikable. I didn’t buy into Talon pining for her for four years. Once she agreed to go out with him everything was easy and predictable. I was really expecting more based on the blurb.
The only thing that surprised me was her secret from high school. But even then, what happened to her didn’t fit at all into the storyline. Her attitude about it also wasn’t really natural and believable in my opinion.
I read this book in one sitting, it was quick and easy to read.
But it was also really boring. I kept waiting for something to happen but no such luck. There was no connection between main characters. Irie was judgmental and completely unlikable. I didn’t buy into Talon pining for her for four years. Once she agreed to go out with him everything was easy and predictable. I was really expecting more based on the blurb.
The only thing that surprised me was her secret from high school. But even then, what happened to her didn’t fit at all into the storyline. Her attitude about it also wasn’t really natural and believable in my opinion.
September 26, 2019
I loved Talon Gold! I want him as my friend. Not a boyfriend because he's perfect for Irie! Lol. And Irie? Damn, she was awesome. I totally get why she was reluctant to date Talon when she tells him what happened in her past.
I loved that Irie had lasted nearly 4 years without giving in but also happy that she gave him a chance and that he never gave up on her, even when she pushed him away time and again.
I would have liked a bit more of a showdown with Mark but it was just enough to satisfy me.
I loved the epilogue but I wanted more. Didn't want to finish this book. It was so good!
I loved that Irie had lasted nearly 4 years without giving in but also happy that she gave him a chance and that he never gave up on her, even when she pushed him away time and again.
I would have liked a bit more of a showdown with Mark but it was just enough to satisfy me.
I loved the epilogue but I wanted more. Didn't want to finish this book. It was so good!
November 1, 2019
Disclaimer - I’m on a mission at the moment to find new, amazing books to add to my bookshelves. So my tolerance for books I’m not immediately sucked into is pretty low. I’m looking for engaging writing, well-developed characters, and engrossing plot lines.
I’m not a huge fan of romances where the characters have history. I much prefer to be there from the beginning.
As such, I sort of lost interest in this.
Skimmed.
I’m not a huge fan of romances where the characters have history. I much prefer to be there from the beginning.
As such, I sort of lost interest in this.
Skimmed.
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