What do you think?
Rate this book
Over the Fence #2
Hitting to Win
After a lifetime of neglect and sorrow, Miles Farriston has hit rock bottom after his lying ex-girlfriend proves that no one in his life sticks around. On the outs with his friends, in jeopardy of losing his baseball career and this close to getting kicked out of Kappa Eta Sigma, Miles is forced to compete in the Greek Life dance competition. What he didn't bank on was getting bright, cheery Chloe Trabucco as a partner.
Ballet, friends and her sorority. The only three things Chloe Trabucco wants to focus on and excel at. So when she is asked to compete, as a freshman, in the popular Greek dance competition, she couldn't be happier. That is, until she learns Miles is her partner. The same Miles she's had a huge crush on for half of her life, and the same guy who made it clear months ago that he wants nothing to do with her.
Her positivity and patience annoy him. His attitude and anger finally drive her to the breaking point. Can they hit a home run, both on and off the dance floor, or will they go down swinging?
Ballet, friends and her sorority. The only three things Chloe Trabucco wants to focus on and excel at. So when she is asked to compete, as a freshman, in the popular Greek dance competition, she couldn't be happier. That is, until she learns Miles is her partner. The same Miles she's had a huge crush on for half of her life, and the same guy who made it clear months ago that he wants nothing to do with her.
Her positivity and patience annoy him. His attitude and anger finally drive her to the breaking point. Can they hit a home run, both on and off the dance floor, or will they go down swinging?
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2015
142 people are currently reading
604 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Aarons
63 books2,990 followersAuthor of romance novels such as Fleeting and Love at First Fight, Carrie Aarons writes books that are just as swoon-worthy as they are sarcastic. Her stories are fueled by vanilla lattes, meloncholy music, and copious amounts of candles.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
When she isn't writing, Carrie is busy binging reality TV, having a love/hate relationship with cardio, and trying not to burn dinner. She lives in farm country with her husband, two children and ninety-pound rescue pup.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 2, 2021
Angst personified: Miles is on a downward spiral of self-destruction, his brutish behaviour to Chloe was utterly abusive. He knows she has a crush on him and uses it to his advantage. Rather than doing the respectable thing and walking away since he doesn’t return her feelings, he uses her as his personal punching bag.
Their first adult encounter:::
“Chloe, isn’t it? Yeah, whatever, I know you’ve been into me for years. Trying to sink your claws into me. Well, you should listen good now. I’m not looking for another hoity-toity, princess bitch who only wants to date me so she can post it all over social media and get her hands on my family’s money. I’m here because I was dragged here, not because I want to #@$& you, or God forbid start a relationship. So save your cheery-cheery sunshine bullshit and leave me the #&*@ alone. Bad enough I have to sit here with you, I don’t need to talk to you too.”
She falls during their dance practices:::
“Wha … how come you didn’t catch me?” My tailbone is starting to tingle.
“You’re so prissy, you know that? Acting the part of the little dance teacher. You didn’t want to ask if I had any experience?”
“I’m sorry. It was wrong to be so presumptuous, and for that I apologize.”
Finally, he gives an angry huff, pulling me to my feet when he sees me struggling. She apologises to him for being presumptuous despite his lack of remorse for her injuring herself....never let it be said that chivalry isn’t dead (insert sarcasm), in this instance, it IS.
And what you saw back there … with Brooke. It wasn’t anything.”
“Miles, you really don’t have to apologize. I’m going to go home. Been a long day”.
Chloe and Miles choreograph a dance, and he suggests a lift to set them apart. She is reluctant, afraid he’ll drop her.
“I don’t like lifts, okay? I don’t want to be dropped.”
“So you don’t trust me?”
“Well … no. I really don’t”.
Miles, come on. Why would I trust you? You can’t even own up to the fact that you kissed me last night. Let’s not pretend things haven’t been awkward all morning.” I know she’s liked me for years, and I really don’t have an excuse for why I never went for her. Maybe, because, deep down, I knew it would be very different with her.
“No. You didn’t hurt me. But I did get the morning-after pill to be safe.”
“Sh*t. I’m really sorry. I should have taken you, or something”. What I want to say is, yes, you shouldn’t have had sex with me in the first place if you don’t think that highly of me.
It goes both ways, Chloe does not think highly of herself and allows him to belittle her. She loses her dignity and self-respect by their forced association and is repeatedly reduced to tears as he denigrates her.
She accepts his boorish behaviour and then sleeps with him, repeating the vicious cycle. How can someone constantly accept his condescension and derision...does she not have any self-preservation skills or pride?
This carries the wrong message on relationships.
At the dance competition, their confrontation:::
“Haven’t you ever loved someone? Loved them so much that you can’t even imagine …”
“That I can’t imagine what, Chloe? Losing them? Nice.”
“I’m sorry, Miles. I didn’t mean that, I know how—”
“You don’t know shit. You have the perfect little family, am I right? A loving mom, a dad who treats you like the spoiled brat that you are”.
“So sorry, if it’s a little hard to act like I’m hopelessly in love with a girl that I’m only just @#&$ing. I’ll try to be more emotional next time.”
Chloe looks like I’ve slapped her. Her skin is ashen, and she looks like she might be sick. It’s not until I get a handle on my rage that I realize what I’ve done.
“Shit, Chloe, no I …”
“Hey, campers! That was so great, I thought the performance—” Minka takes one look at Chloe and rushes to her, taking Chloe’s fragile body in her arms.
“What did you do to her?”
“Hey, man, what happened here? Everything okay?” His gentle tone pisses me off, and I violently shake his fingers off me.
“Don’t touch me.”
“Chloe, I’m sorry—”
“Get away from her, Farris. You’re a prick, you know that? She deserves so much better than your piece-of-shit self. A boyfriend who actually sees her for the kick-ass chick that she is.”
“Who the hell said I was your boyfriend? We’re hooking up, I thought I made that clear.”
“Just go,” she finally says, her voice sounding like broken glass.
Completely high and stoned out of his mind, he arrives at her doorstep:::
“Miles, I’m sorry that your life isn’t what you want it to be right now. But only you have the power to change that. But this”—she points back and forth between us—“whatever this was, it’s over now. All of these years, I thought you were this amazing, unattainable guy. I didn’t realize that maybe it was because you are such a mean person. I’m one to talk, being the doormat for everyone else to lay on, but I’m standing up this time.”
“Go home, Farris. And try and do so safely.”
Finally❗️❗️❗️
She’s had eleven years to win him over...what does it say when he’s been indifferent and demeaning her? He acts exactly like his father.
His father’s an imposing, overbearing, dictating tyrant. Miles was cursed with neglectful parents that imposed a great deal of parental pressure. His brother’s death changed the landscape of his life and his father expected him to replace him, as heir apparent. Miles, however, had dreams of baseball, beyond his father’s expectations. His dream has always been to join the MLB.
There is a turning point, although his previous behaviour was reprehensible, he redeems himself. Emotionally unavailable, his detachment from his father is freeing. His father was a controlling bully and manipulated him with conditions to reign him in, until he finally has enough and severs their relationship.
Chloe comes from a loving, nurturing family and they warmly embraced him into their fold.
He plans to enrol into the MLB draft as Chloe is auditioning for the SAB (School of American Ballet).
The incessant references of ‘Babe’, or ‘Baby’ are annoying. On Jay’s (his brother) death anniversary he visits an emotionally dark place with his friend
‘Mr. Alcohol’ to numb the day and there is a confrontation that ends badly. Feeling remorseful, he quietly attends Chloe’s audition and apologises.
No OW/OM drama, minor skirmishes. No cheating. Dual Points of View. Formulaic.
Miles can often act irrationally and at the beginning he was unbearable. A culmination of the story brings them to full circle, complete with a grand gesture via a Ferris wheel proposal.
For clarity, there is a carousel in Central Park...not a Ferris wheel. The Ferris Wheel, would be in Brooklyn.
Their first adult encounter:::
“Chloe, isn’t it? Yeah, whatever, I know you’ve been into me for years. Trying to sink your claws into me. Well, you should listen good now. I’m not looking for another hoity-toity, princess bitch who only wants to date me so she can post it all over social media and get her hands on my family’s money. I’m here because I was dragged here, not because I want to #@$& you, or God forbid start a relationship. So save your cheery-cheery sunshine bullshit and leave me the #&*@ alone. Bad enough I have to sit here with you, I don’t need to talk to you too.”
She falls during their dance practices:::
“Wha … how come you didn’t catch me?” My tailbone is starting to tingle.
“You’re so prissy, you know that? Acting the part of the little dance teacher. You didn’t want to ask if I had any experience?”
“I’m sorry. It was wrong to be so presumptuous, and for that I apologize.”
Finally, he gives an angry huff, pulling me to my feet when he sees me struggling. She apologises to him for being presumptuous despite his lack of remorse for her injuring herself....never let it be said that chivalry isn’t dead (insert sarcasm), in this instance, it IS.
And what you saw back there … with Brooke. It wasn’t anything.”
“Miles, you really don’t have to apologize. I’m going to go home. Been a long day”.
Chloe and Miles choreograph a dance, and he suggests a lift to set them apart. She is reluctant, afraid he’ll drop her.
“I don’t like lifts, okay? I don’t want to be dropped.”
“So you don’t trust me?”
“Well … no. I really don’t”.
Miles, come on. Why would I trust you? You can’t even own up to the fact that you kissed me last night. Let’s not pretend things haven’t been awkward all morning.” I know she’s liked me for years, and I really don’t have an excuse for why I never went for her. Maybe, because, deep down, I knew it would be very different with her.
“No. You didn’t hurt me. But I did get the morning-after pill to be safe.”
“Sh*t. I’m really sorry. I should have taken you, or something”. What I want to say is, yes, you shouldn’t have had sex with me in the first place if you don’t think that highly of me.
It goes both ways, Chloe does not think highly of herself and allows him to belittle her. She loses her dignity and self-respect by their forced association and is repeatedly reduced to tears as he denigrates her.
She accepts his boorish behaviour and then sleeps with him, repeating the vicious cycle. How can someone constantly accept his condescension and derision...does she not have any self-preservation skills or pride?
This carries the wrong message on relationships.
At the dance competition, their confrontation:::
“Haven’t you ever loved someone? Loved them so much that you can’t even imagine …”
“That I can’t imagine what, Chloe? Losing them? Nice.”
“I’m sorry, Miles. I didn’t mean that, I know how—”
“You don’t know shit. You have the perfect little family, am I right? A loving mom, a dad who treats you like the spoiled brat that you are”.
“So sorry, if it’s a little hard to act like I’m hopelessly in love with a girl that I’m only just @#&$ing. I’ll try to be more emotional next time.”
Chloe looks like I’ve slapped her. Her skin is ashen, and she looks like she might be sick. It’s not until I get a handle on my rage that I realize what I’ve done.
“Shit, Chloe, no I …”
“Hey, campers! That was so great, I thought the performance—” Minka takes one look at Chloe and rushes to her, taking Chloe’s fragile body in her arms.
“What did you do to her?”
“Hey, man, what happened here? Everything okay?” His gentle tone pisses me off, and I violently shake his fingers off me.
“Don’t touch me.”
“Chloe, I’m sorry—”
“Get away from her, Farris. You’re a prick, you know that? She deserves so much better than your piece-of-shit self. A boyfriend who actually sees her for the kick-ass chick that she is.”
“Who the hell said I was your boyfriend? We’re hooking up, I thought I made that clear.”
“Just go,” she finally says, her voice sounding like broken glass.
Completely high and stoned out of his mind, he arrives at her doorstep:::
“Miles, I’m sorry that your life isn’t what you want it to be right now. But only you have the power to change that. But this”—she points back and forth between us—“whatever this was, it’s over now. All of these years, I thought you were this amazing, unattainable guy. I didn’t realize that maybe it was because you are such a mean person. I’m one to talk, being the doormat for everyone else to lay on, but I’m standing up this time.”
“Go home, Farris. And try and do so safely.”
Finally❗️❗️❗️
She’s had eleven years to win him over...what does it say when he’s been indifferent and demeaning her? He acts exactly like his father.
His father’s an imposing, overbearing, dictating tyrant. Miles was cursed with neglectful parents that imposed a great deal of parental pressure. His brother’s death changed the landscape of his life and his father expected him to replace him, as heir apparent. Miles, however, had dreams of baseball, beyond his father’s expectations. His dream has always been to join the MLB.
There is a turning point, although his previous behaviour was reprehensible, he redeems himself. Emotionally unavailable, his detachment from his father is freeing. His father was a controlling bully and manipulated him with conditions to reign him in, until he finally has enough and severs their relationship.
Chloe comes from a loving, nurturing family and they warmly embraced him into their fold.
He plans to enrol into the MLB draft as Chloe is auditioning for the SAB (School of American Ballet).
The incessant references of ‘Babe’, or ‘Baby’ are annoying. On Jay’s (his brother) death anniversary he visits an emotionally dark place with his friend
‘Mr. Alcohol’ to numb the day and there is a confrontation that ends badly. Feeling remorseful, he quietly attends Chloe’s audition and apologises.
No OW/OM drama, minor skirmishes. No cheating. Dual Points of View. Formulaic.
Miles can often act irrationally and at the beginning he was unbearable. A culmination of the story brings them to full circle, complete with a grand gesture via a Ferris wheel proposal.
For clarity, there is a carousel in Central Park...not a Ferris wheel. The Ferris Wheel, would be in Brooklyn.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2015
I first chatted with Carrie Aarons when she contacted me to ask if I would like to participate in her release party for Hitting to Win. I’ve gotten a lot of invitations lately and when I read it, I never got around to answering. She contacted me again and I was instantly impressed when she took the time to check back. It was only my third takeover, but since she sounded so cool in the PM, I agree to do an hour. Baseball isn’t my game. But hey, I had some time, so I bought her book and started reading.
It has been a while…okay, it’s been a long while since I’ve really gotten into a book. Since I write, I tend to mentally note and mark up any book I read, sometimes with an eye to post a review on my FB book club. Only to eventually nix them.
I was so frickin’ excited and intrigued with that first fucking page. I love that feeling when you are instantly drawn into the story! It’s like that feeling when you sink into a warm bath after a hard day, letting go of the stress of the day and sinking into the warm sudsy water. No kids. No distractions. It always elicits a deep exhale and curve to my lips. That’s what reading a great book feels like for me. So for that, Ms. Aarons, this writer thanks you.
Chloe seemed like someone I’d want to know when I was in college. She was centered, kind, and valued forgiveness. I found her perspective on one-night stands to be enlightened and I was pleased to see a realistic portrayal of the college life. Not sure if the girls in my high school were particularly loose, but I just don’t remember knowing that many virgins in college. But when I read many books in NA, I find many authors take that tract, which (sorry JM) I find a little unrealistic.
Miles’ complexity as a character was refreshing. He wasn’t just the traditional player bad boy athlete finally falling for some chick. I felt his pain, the rejection of his parents, and his loneliness after his brother passes. Carrie Aarons sucked me in and made me actually care about him.
The electricity from their encounters shot off the page. Her sex scenes are liquid lava that had me wanting to reach into my “special” drawer. The intensity ratcheted so high, I felt exactly what Chloe was feeling with every move. I have to say the first encounter was so hot, almost animalistic. I fucking loved it. Just sitting her remembering…well, let’s move on. Then she hits me with a Miles who’s trying to take it down to sensual screwing…and boy, did Carrie Aarons do a great job with that. Wow!
Great showing not telling with a level of artistry that shocked me in its clarity and simplicity. In an altercation after Chloe catches Miles with a girl on his lap, Miles says:
“You want my money? What is it? My dick. You need me to fuck you real good? Heard about me from your sisters.”
Her cinnamon-colored cheeks go scarlet, my dirty talk embarrassing her. It makes me hard, my dick bulging into the tight crevices of the tuxedo pants. I’m pissed…no I’m fucking livid that this is the second time I’ve ended up with this girl at the end of the night. Livid that it seems she makes my cock hungry these days.
There are many more moments throughout the story that impacted me. That wasn’t my best example, because where would the fun be in that for the rest of you?
Shoot, at 21%, I was crying! Carrie Aarons pulled me this way and that with her emotionally charged scenes and I loved the ride. Better than a Roller Coaster, but a lot more fun because I can ride it again whenever I want. Whenever I want to escape and check out for a while.
The narration sucked me in. It’s almost like Ms. Aarons chose to shatter the dreaded “fourth wall” and they were speaking directly to me. That’s not easy to do and I loved every minute of it. She expertly peppered it throughout the story, not too much, just a smidge. It allowed me to feel that much closer to Chloe and Miles.
Everybody has a newsletter nowadays and I just don’t like signing up for anyone’s. Right now, whenever I get one it’s like Christmas Day or my birthday when a book just appears on my kindle. I like that feeling and I don’t want to ever dampen it, by including anyone I don’t absolutely love. The excitement of it is the juice for me. I’m on 5 mailing lists…well, I guess, it’s 6 now. She’s now one of the few authors who have me on their mailing list. Their books are always pre-ordered. New release are watched and appearances are noted. Ms. Aarons is on the same level as R.L. Mathewson, Jaime McGuire, and Tillie Cole. Buy her book and see if you disagree. I know it’s a sure bet, you’ll love it as much as I did.
I know it sounds like I’m blowing sunshine up Ms. Aaron’s ass. But what would I have to gain? It’s not like I get a kickback for recommending this book. I wish! Just like with Tillie Cole’s Sweet Rome, I think Hitting to Win has a chance at becoming a best seller. No bullshit.
After some delicious hours of reading, I’m hoping to convince you to buy this book. It’s worth the $3. Hell, I’d pay B&N hardcover prices for this one. Five kisses from Kali.
Come by and check out my review site - No Boundaries Erotica Book Club.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/No-Bou...
It has been a while…okay, it’s been a long while since I’ve really gotten into a book. Since I write, I tend to mentally note and mark up any book I read, sometimes with an eye to post a review on my FB book club. Only to eventually nix them.
I was so frickin’ excited and intrigued with that first fucking page. I love that feeling when you are instantly drawn into the story! It’s like that feeling when you sink into a warm bath after a hard day, letting go of the stress of the day and sinking into the warm sudsy water. No kids. No distractions. It always elicits a deep exhale and curve to my lips. That’s what reading a great book feels like for me. So for that, Ms. Aarons, this writer thanks you.
Chloe seemed like someone I’d want to know when I was in college. She was centered, kind, and valued forgiveness. I found her perspective on one-night stands to be enlightened and I was pleased to see a realistic portrayal of the college life. Not sure if the girls in my high school were particularly loose, but I just don’t remember knowing that many virgins in college. But when I read many books in NA, I find many authors take that tract, which (sorry JM) I find a little unrealistic.
Miles’ complexity as a character was refreshing. He wasn’t just the traditional player bad boy athlete finally falling for some chick. I felt his pain, the rejection of his parents, and his loneliness after his brother passes. Carrie Aarons sucked me in and made me actually care about him.
The electricity from their encounters shot off the page. Her sex scenes are liquid lava that had me wanting to reach into my “special” drawer. The intensity ratcheted so high, I felt exactly what Chloe was feeling with every move. I have to say the first encounter was so hot, almost animalistic. I fucking loved it. Just sitting her remembering…well, let’s move on. Then she hits me with a Miles who’s trying to take it down to sensual screwing…and boy, did Carrie Aarons do a great job with that. Wow!
Great showing not telling with a level of artistry that shocked me in its clarity and simplicity. In an altercation after Chloe catches Miles with a girl on his lap, Miles says:
“You want my money? What is it? My dick. You need me to fuck you real good? Heard about me from your sisters.”
Her cinnamon-colored cheeks go scarlet, my dirty talk embarrassing her. It makes me hard, my dick bulging into the tight crevices of the tuxedo pants. I’m pissed…no I’m fucking livid that this is the second time I’ve ended up with this girl at the end of the night. Livid that it seems she makes my cock hungry these days.
There are many more moments throughout the story that impacted me. That wasn’t my best example, because where would the fun be in that for the rest of you?
Shoot, at 21%, I was crying! Carrie Aarons pulled me this way and that with her emotionally charged scenes and I loved the ride. Better than a Roller Coaster, but a lot more fun because I can ride it again whenever I want. Whenever I want to escape and check out for a while.
The narration sucked me in. It’s almost like Ms. Aarons chose to shatter the dreaded “fourth wall” and they were speaking directly to me. That’s not easy to do and I loved every minute of it. She expertly peppered it throughout the story, not too much, just a smidge. It allowed me to feel that much closer to Chloe and Miles.
Everybody has a newsletter nowadays and I just don’t like signing up for anyone’s. Right now, whenever I get one it’s like Christmas Day or my birthday when a book just appears on my kindle. I like that feeling and I don’t want to ever dampen it, by including anyone I don’t absolutely love. The excitement of it is the juice for me. I’m on 5 mailing lists…well, I guess, it’s 6 now. She’s now one of the few authors who have me on their mailing list. Their books are always pre-ordered. New release are watched and appearances are noted. Ms. Aarons is on the same level as R.L. Mathewson, Jaime McGuire, and Tillie Cole. Buy her book and see if you disagree. I know it’s a sure bet, you’ll love it as much as I did.
I know it sounds like I’m blowing sunshine up Ms. Aaron’s ass. But what would I have to gain? It’s not like I get a kickback for recommending this book. I wish! Just like with Tillie Cole’s Sweet Rome, I think Hitting to Win has a chance at becoming a best seller. No bullshit.
After some delicious hours of reading, I’m hoping to convince you to buy this book. It’s worth the $3. Hell, I’d pay B&N hardcover prices for this one. Five kisses from Kali.
Come by and check out my review site - No Boundaries Erotica Book Club.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/No-Bou...
February 9, 2016
Short and Sweet Mini Review
This one was a true angst filled rollercoaster of a story. I mean I knew that considering the downward spiral that Miles was starting on in Pitching to Win it wouldn’t be wine and roses, but even I wasn’t ready for that. But like that horror story you watch through the gaps in fingers you’ve slapped over your eyes, I had to see it through. Chloe and Miles occupy that gray area of characters for me where I spent half the book liking them and the other half irritated with both of them. While I understood what drove them and why they acted and reacted in the ways that they did there were some instances where I had to reign in the urge to slam my ereader against the wall. What I did like was how Miles finally got his head out of his ass. It wasn’t easy or pretty, but he did it.
I would have rated Hitting to Win higher despite my issues with Chloe and Miles, but what kept me from doing so was because of the writing errors peppered throughout the book. I’m no grammar expert, but when I have to go back and re-read a sentence because of spelling errors, misuse of tenses or words that are either doubled up or omitted, it brings my enjoyment of the story down a notch due to the flow being disrupted. A more detailed eye during the editing process would have helped a lot in this situation.
This one was a true angst filled rollercoaster of a story. I mean I knew that considering the downward spiral that Miles was starting on in Pitching to Win it wouldn’t be wine and roses, but even I wasn’t ready for that. But like that horror story you watch through the gaps in fingers you’ve slapped over your eyes, I had to see it through. Chloe and Miles occupy that gray area of characters for me where I spent half the book liking them and the other half irritated with both of them. While I understood what drove them and why they acted and reacted in the ways that they did there were some instances where I had to reign in the urge to slam my ereader against the wall. What I did like was how Miles finally got his head out of his ass. It wasn’t easy or pretty, but he did it.
I would have rated Hitting to Win higher despite my issues with Chloe and Miles, but what kept me from doing so was because of the writing errors peppered throughout the book. I’m no grammar expert, but when I have to go back and re-read a sentence because of spelling errors, misuse of tenses or words that are either doubled up or omitted, it brings my enjoyment of the story down a notch due to the flow being disrupted. A more detailed eye during the editing process would have helped a lot in this situation.
September 11, 2016
4.5 stars!
I love how this book fit many tropes but none at the same time. For one thing, this book was certainly never boring. It was hot, funny, and some surprising emotional moments. I did pick up on a few grammatical errors that I felt took me out of the story momentarily, but it didn't lessen my enjoyment overall.
It was really easy to love Chloe Trabucco. I loved her attitude towards life and people. At times it was really hard to like Miles Farriston, but it was easy to understand his pain. I just didn't like how he took it out on Chloe.
Another thing I really loved about this book was how presumptions and assumptions were shown to be detrimental, especially for Miles. His view of Chloe was clouded by the past and I think he knew if he really got to know her, he'd have a hard time holding onto his incorrect judgments. I also loved how Miles took charge when it came to doing what he wanted with his life.
Often the second book in a series can struggle, because it's often compared to the first. I think Carrie Aarons did a phenomenal job in writing a story that was different but fit the needs of the characters. This story was truly Miles and Chloe's. I loved seeing Minka and Owen again, and going strong too. I'm really loving this series and am ready for more!
I love how this book fit many tropes but none at the same time. For one thing, this book was certainly never boring. It was hot, funny, and some surprising emotional moments. I did pick up on a few grammatical errors that I felt took me out of the story momentarily, but it didn't lessen my enjoyment overall.
It was really easy to love Chloe Trabucco. I loved her attitude towards life and people. At times it was really hard to like Miles Farriston, but it was easy to understand his pain. I just didn't like how he took it out on Chloe.
Another thing I really loved about this book was how presumptions and assumptions were shown to be detrimental, especially for Miles. His view of Chloe was clouded by the past and I think he knew if he really got to know her, he'd have a hard time holding onto his incorrect judgments. I also loved how Miles took charge when it came to doing what he wanted with his life.
Often the second book in a series can struggle, because it's often compared to the first. I think Carrie Aarons did a phenomenal job in writing a story that was different but fit the needs of the characters. This story was truly Miles and Chloe's. I loved seeing Minka and Owen again, and going strong too. I'm really loving this series and am ready for more!
December 22, 2015
Hitting to Win is the second book in Carrie Aarons "Over the Fence" series. As with the first book, it has an HEA, and no cliffhanger but does tie into the first book, and leads into the third. They can be read as standalones however!
Out of the three, this one was my favorite. The characters go through a lot, not just individually, but together as well. They have to grow, learn and over come things. Learn to depend on themselves. The only thing that might tweek some ears is the H's use of drugs. (Not hard drugs, but weed.) I know it did mine when it happened. I pretty much rolled my eyes at him and told him to knock that off... and yet, overall, he's still my favorite H in the series! Don't worry though, he does figure his crap out.
Definitely an enjoyable novel though and will leave you curious as to the third book.
Out of the three, this one was my favorite. The characters go through a lot, not just individually, but together as well. They have to grow, learn and over come things. Learn to depend on themselves. The only thing that might tweek some ears is the H's use of drugs. (Not hard drugs, but weed.) I know it did mine when it happened. I pretty much rolled my eyes at him and told him to knock that off... and yet, overall, he's still my favorite H in the series! Don't worry though, he does figure his crap out.
Definitely an enjoyable novel though and will leave you curious as to the third book.
December 28, 2018
Seriously Awful
I love Carrie Aarons. I’ve read almost all of her books including book 1 of this series and really enjoyed myself. However, I was unable to stomach this book and had to stop reading at about 35%.
*Spoiler Alert* Miles is completely abusive to Chloé, both physically (through rough unprotected sex) and emotionally (though mostly emotionally) but for some reason it’s condoned because Miles comes from such a messed up past and is in a sensitive place because of it. That’s not right. Reading about how he emotionally abused her, shamed her, and reduced her to tears on many occasions actually sickened me. And the worst part is that she somehow excuses this and they end up together, which is complete garbage. No one deserves to be abused. This book carries an awful message.
I love Carrie Aarons. I’ve read almost all of her books including book 1 of this series and really enjoyed myself. However, I was unable to stomach this book and had to stop reading at about 35%.
*Spoiler Alert* Miles is completely abusive to Chloé, both physically (through rough unprotected sex) and emotionally (though mostly emotionally) but for some reason it’s condoned because Miles comes from such a messed up past and is in a sensitive place because of it. That’s not right. Reading about how he emotionally abused her, shamed her, and reduced her to tears on many occasions actually sickened me. And the worst part is that she somehow excuses this and they end up together, which is complete garbage. No one deserves to be abused. This book carries an awful message.
January 17, 2021
Her heart!
Chloe has been crushing on Miles for a long time. On a Ferris wheel ride, Miles savages her with words that wound her. Avoiding each other isn't easy as their best friends are in love. When they are partnered for a dance competition, they see each other differently and the chemistry between them ignites! What happens when Miles steps out of his childhood and takes control? What happens when both realise they deserve more? This book was addictive and I just couldn't put it down!
Chloe has been crushing on Miles for a long time. On a Ferris wheel ride, Miles savages her with words that wound her. Avoiding each other isn't easy as their best friends are in love. When they are partnered for a dance competition, they see each other differently and the chemistry between them ignites! What happens when Miles steps out of his childhood and takes control? What happens when both realise they deserve more? This book was addictive and I just couldn't put it down!
November 6, 2019
Spanish:
“Hitting to Win” de Carrie Aarons es el segundo libro perteneciente a la serie “Over the Fence”. Este libro es un romance new adult, con un romance universitario, de nuevo con otro jugador de beisbol y además con una hermosa bailarina. Está escrito desde ambos puntos de vista muy diferentes, con un romance de enemigos a amantes.
Cuando a Chloe Trabucco le piden que compitan en un baile esta emocionada, con ganas de mostrarse ella misma al mundo. Cuando se da cuenta que Miles Farriston es su compañero, se dará cuenta que las cosas no serán fáciles. Ha estado enamorada de Miles desde hace demasiado tiempo, pero su paciencia cuando están juntos es nula. Además, él ya le dijo que no quiere nada con ella, pero la unión de ambos hará que haiga tensión por ambas partes.
Siempre he dicho que quien la sigue la consigue y en esta historia se ve muy bien reflejado. Chloe había tenido algo por Miles desde que estaban en kinder y con el tiempo Miles se volvió más difícil, además de hipócrita con ella. Toda esa parte en la que Chloe expresa lo que sentía mas en el pasado que ahora, fue un momento de bajón importante. Ella super enganchada a el y él ni caso.
Pero ambos se tienen que unir para el bien de Chloe ya que ella es bailarina y con ello comienza la química entre ellos, pero no todo es tan dulce al principio. Sinceramente ame esos momentos tan hot y explosivos.
"Quiero brillar contigo. Quiero salvarte, para siempre. Por el resto de nuestras vidas. Quiero ser el príncipe de tu princesa".
Con el tiempo Chloe descubre como se siente Miles y cuáles son sus problemas y todos los momentos difíciles que paso. Todo ello me dio mucha tristeza, más al final cuando Miles le explicó lo que sufrió de pequeño, hasta me contuve las lágrimas.
"Esto es lo que querías, ¿verdad? Para que me ponga sentimental. Bueno, aquí estoy. Soy un maldito desastre, Chloe. Mi vida es un puto desastre. Pero tú, tú me haces sentir que algo podría estar bien".
Quiero un Miles en mi vida, dejando aparte toda su vida, este chico me volvió loca todo el libro. Me pareció super sexy y el primer momento que compartió con Chloe fue tan caliente.
Owen Axel me encantó, pero Miles Farriston me ha enamorado, este bad boy es mío.
⚜Rate: ★★★★★
English:
"Hitting to Win" by Carrie Aarons is the second book in the "Over the Fence" series. This book is a new adult romance, with a university romance. Again with another baseball player and also with a beautiful dancer. It is written dual pov, with a romance from enemies to lovers.
When Chloe Trabucco is asked to compete in a dance she is excited, eager to show herself to the world. When she finds out that Miles Farriston is her partner, she will realize that things won't be easy. She's been in love with Miles for too long, but her patience when they're together is zero. Besides, he already told her that he doesn't want anything with her, but the union of both will cause tension.
I've always said that whoever follows it gets it, and in this story, it looks very well-reflected. Chloe had had something for Miles since they were in kindergarten, and with time Miles became more difficult, as well as hypocritical with her. All that part where Chloe expresses what she felt in the past more than now, was a moment of significant depression. She was very hooked on him, and he didn't even care.
But both of them have to unite for Chloe's benefit since she is a dancer, and with it begins the chemistry between them, but not everything is so kind at first. I sincerely love those hot and explosive moments.
“I want to shine with you. I want to save you, forever. For the rest of our lives. I want to be the prince to your princess.”
Over time Chloe discovers how Miles feels, and what his problems are, and all the difficult moments he went through. All this, gave me a lot of sadness, more so at the end when Miles explained to her what he suffered as a child, I even held back my tears
“This is what you wanted right? For me to get emotional. Well, here I am. I'm a fucking mess, Chloe. My life is a fucking mess. But you, you make me feel like something could actually be okay.”
I want a Miles in my life, apart from his whole life, this guy drove me crazy all over the book. I thought it was incredibly hot, and the first moment he shared with Chloe was so intense.
I loved Owen Axel, but Miles Farriston has made me fall in love, this bad boy is mine.
⚜Rate: ★★★★★
December 10, 2016
He was an asshole.... but I love him. I love redeemable assholes. Chloe .... she was a sweetheart, so good inside and Miles needed a girl just like her.
I love college romances, and there aren't many good ones considering the amount of cheaters in college romances nowadays! I also love angst, but CHEATING-FREE angst. This had the kinda angst I liked.
He was definitely an anti hero at first, aggressive rude etc. I loved watching his journey.
I did take a star off because I felt like the journey between the asshole and perfect boyfriend felt unnatural a bit. Even his POVs change so drastically. But I'm glad it did. I just never expected it from his character to become a sappy romantic, but I loved it :)
I love college romances, and there aren't many good ones considering the amount of cheaters in college romances nowadays! I also love angst, but CHEATING-FREE angst. This had the kinda angst I liked.
He was definitely an anti hero at first, aggressive rude etc. I loved watching his journey.
I did take a star off because I felt like the journey between the asshole and perfect boyfriend felt unnatural a bit. Even his POVs change so drastically. But I'm glad it did. I just never expected it from his character to become a sappy romantic, but I loved it :)
September 7, 2015
I read this book back to back with Pitching to Win (Book 1). I thought it was going to be hard to top Minka & Owen's love story. Carrie has not only done it but somehow made me fall in love with Miles who acted like such a jackass almost from the point of her character being introduced in book 1. Chloe has had a long standing crush on Miles since grade 7, now a freshman in college she's forced to dance with Miles in a DWTS like competition. I loved Miles redemption story and how Chloe no matter what believes the best in people. Great book, devoured it in a day!
September 14, 2015
I loved this book! Loved to sorrow and the pain, but also watching the characters grow into something more. After reading both stories now Id love to hear the love stories of the parents like Raquel and Carl story would be amazing to hear and or Chloe's parents story! I think it'd be amazing to see the parents before the kids came because now their parents their wise and have rules and just mesh well together but to see them in a time when they were young and reckless and most of all hated the other? Ugh that'd be a great book!
November 29, 2016
I finished reading book one in the series and jumped right into book 2 the next night. You can read it as a standalone. I really enjoyed Miles and Chloe's story. Miles is a grade A jerk who he takes out all his nastiness out on Chloe. Chloe is a sweet girl who has had a crush on Miles since she was little. They are thrown together and neither one is happy about it. You need to read it to see what happens. Can't wait for the next book love getting updates about the past couples.
September 3, 2015
5 stars
Holy hotness. I'm not sure if I like broody Miles or happy go lucky Miles better. He is sex on a stick. Yummy. This book is amazing. The first one in the series was great but I think this one beat it. Love it. A must read.
Holy hotness. I'm not sure if I like broody Miles or happy go lucky Miles better. He is sex on a stick. Yummy. This book is amazing. The first one in the series was great but I think this one beat it. Love it. A must read.
Read
November 30, 2015Good travel read
After reading book one in the series I had to read book two. Really enjoyed the book. It filled in the blanks from book one. I could have read it without having read the first one though. If you like college and sports romance this book and series is for you
After reading book one in the series I had to read book two. Really enjoyed the book. It filled in the blanks from book one. I could have read it without having read the first one though. If you like college and sports romance this book and series is for you
November 30, 2015
I loved this book!
sorrow and the pain, watching the characters grow into something more. After reading The story Was easy to read and loved how it flowed so easy I read this book in one sitting
I think it is amazing how people's feeling can do 360s and how other people are so forgiving
sorrow and the pain, watching the characters grow into something more. After reading The story Was easy to read and loved how it flowed so easy I read this book in one sitting
I think it is amazing how people's feeling can do 360s and how other people are so forgiving
October 11, 2015
3.5 Stars!!
November 24, 2015
Miles was a dick!!!
January 16, 2019
The guy was a bit psycho and the girl was a push over. It also had a bit of a rapey vibe to it.
February 16, 2016
3.5 Chloe was almost too much of a doormat for me.
February 15, 2019
Having finished the first book in this series, I was really looking forward to reading about Chloe and Miles most particularly after the glimpses that we caught of their relationship or lack of in the first book.
Chloe has always had a crush Miles however, Miles following a rough summer (daddy issues combined with a break up) is in a rough place and is definitely not looking for a relationship with Chloe. For some reason being around Chloe brings out the nastiness in Miles often leaving her in tears.
I like Chloe (probably more than Minka). I liked that she had her ambitions and worked hard to master her talent. I enjoyed her interactions with her family and friends. I like how she eventually stood up to Miles knowing her worth and let him chase her.
I had a love/hate relationship with Miles. Hate because of his treatment of Chloe, and love because there was so much more to him and I was sympathetic to his circumstances and downward spiral which I wanted him to snap out of it (and cheered when he eventually did snap out of it and stood up for himself).
I liked the chemistry between the characters which jumped out. In my review of Pitching to Win, I described Owen as bland...Miles is anything but. I liked that both Chloe and Miles had depth to their characters which is why I enjoyed this story so much. I liked the College setting and we got to meet some old characters (although many references were made to Minka and Owen's physical relationship and I did seem to like Minka less in this book). We also got to know other characters better.
If you liked the first book, you will definitely enjoy this book and I would recommend this.
Chloe has always had a crush Miles however, Miles following a rough summer (daddy issues combined with a break up) is in a rough place and is definitely not looking for a relationship with Chloe. For some reason being around Chloe brings out the nastiness in Miles often leaving her in tears.
I like Chloe (probably more than Minka). I liked that she had her ambitions and worked hard to master her talent. I enjoyed her interactions with her family and friends. I like how she eventually stood up to Miles knowing her worth and let him chase her.
I had a love/hate relationship with Miles. Hate because of his treatment of Chloe, and love because there was so much more to him and I was sympathetic to his circumstances and downward spiral which I wanted him to snap out of it (and cheered when he eventually did snap out of it and stood up for himself).
I liked the chemistry between the characters which jumped out. In my review of Pitching to Win, I described Owen as bland...Miles is anything but. I liked that both Chloe and Miles had depth to their characters which is why I enjoyed this story so much. I liked the College setting and we got to meet some old characters (although many references were made to Minka and Owen's physical relationship and I did seem to like Minka less in this book). We also got to know other characters better.
If you liked the first book, you will definitely enjoy this book and I would recommend this.
October 13, 2019
Hitting to Win is the second novel in the Over the Fence series. It takes place about a year after Owen and Minka's story and follows Chloe to college.
We originally met Miles and Chloe in Pitching to Win, and the anticipation of their story was too much! The broody guys always make for a non-stop story. I couldn't put this story down.
Chloe is one of Minka's best friends and a naturally talented ballet dancer. She is the nicest person, always wants to help, and doesn't often hold a grudge.
Miles is quite the opposite. Ever since he found out his ex was cheating on him and was only with him for his family's money, trusting hasn't been easy. He makes assumptions about Chloe and says very mean things to her before he even gets to know her and they've known each other since elementary school.
I loved both of these characters so much! They were so different, but went together so well. Even though Chloe us super nice, she's not a push over. Even though Miles has a rough exterior and is in a dark place, he's a totally funny guy. I cannot wait for more from this group!
We originally met Miles and Chloe in Pitching to Win, and the anticipation of their story was too much! The broody guys always make for a non-stop story. I couldn't put this story down.
Chloe is one of Minka's best friends and a naturally talented ballet dancer. She is the nicest person, always wants to help, and doesn't often hold a grudge.
Miles is quite the opposite. Ever since he found out his ex was cheating on him and was only with him for his family's money, trusting hasn't been easy. He makes assumptions about Chloe and says very mean things to her before he even gets to know her and they've known each other since elementary school.
I loved both of these characters so much! They were so different, but went together so well. Even though Chloe us super nice, she's not a push over. Even though Miles has a rough exterior and is in a dark place, he's a totally funny guy. I cannot wait for more from this group!
January 16, 2021
Spanish & English Opinion :: 3.5 🍭🍭🍭🍭
ESP ::
Segundo libro de la serie. Seguimos con el tema deportivo, pero se junta con el baile. Me gustó mucho lo de Dancing with the Greeks.
Farris y Chloe son la pareja. Ella es divina aunque definitivo, demasiado buena. De repente me daban ganas de decirme que ya no diera oportunidades.
Él la verdad, muy patán y geocéntrico. Ok, reconoce sus errores pero se queja demasiado de cómo la vida es injusta y justifica sus actitudes.. aunque se reivindica... pero pudo rogar más.
ENG ::
The second book of the series and we keep the sport topic, but with dancing. I loved the “Dancing with the Greeks” competition.
Farris and Chloe are the main couple now. She’s really nice and forgiving, so much that I wanted to tell her to stop. Anyway, loved her family also.
Farris was a jerk. Self centered and always complaining about how life is unfair and he justified his actions often because of this. He redeems himself but more groveling would have been ok.
ESP ::
Segundo libro de la serie. Seguimos con el tema deportivo, pero se junta con el baile. Me gustó mucho lo de Dancing with the Greeks.
Farris y Chloe son la pareja. Ella es divina aunque definitivo, demasiado buena. De repente me daban ganas de decirme que ya no diera oportunidades.
Él la verdad, muy patán y geocéntrico. Ok, reconoce sus errores pero se queja demasiado de cómo la vida es injusta y justifica sus actitudes.. aunque se reivindica... pero pudo rogar más.
ENG ::
The second book of the series and we keep the sport topic, but with dancing. I loved the “Dancing with the Greeks” competition.
Farris and Chloe are the main couple now. She’s really nice and forgiving, so much that I wanted to tell her to stop. Anyway, loved her family also.
Farris was a jerk. Self centered and always complaining about how life is unfair and he justified his actions often because of this. He redeems himself but more groveling would have been ok.
July 15, 2019
https://scontent-den4-1.xx.fbcdn.net/...
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz7O2aqg8tq/
Dancing towards True Love
Two athletes working hard towards their individual goals and chasing their dreams of becoming professionals at what they love. She's a ballerina and he's a star baseball player at their college. These two characters have history and a lot of obstacles to overcome in order to have a chance at a happily ever after. This book is the second in a series but could be read as a standalone. I can't wait to start reading the next book!
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz7O2aqg8tq/
Dancing towards True Love
Two athletes working hard towards their individual goals and chasing their dreams of becoming professionals at what they love. She's a ballerina and he's a star baseball player at their college. These two characters have history and a lot of obstacles to overcome in order to have a chance at a happily ever after. This book is the second in a series but could be read as a standalone. I can't wait to start reading the next book!
October 8, 2019
*Read in the box set*
Hitting to Win is the story of Miles and Chloe. (4 stars) This novel is an angsty NA complete with a complete sweetheart and conceited asshole. I don’t know what it is about an asshole “hero” but they are always my favorite. (maybe because I married one!) I like the character development though I do have a tiny issue with the plotline. These guys are good enough to be scouted by the pros which insinuates D1 schools and athletics. Recreational drug use is not tolerated, and drug testing does occur – it bugs me a bit that it doesn’t seem like a big deal because in reality; it is.
Hitting to Win is the story of Miles and Chloe. (4 stars) This novel is an angsty NA complete with a complete sweetheart and conceited asshole. I don’t know what it is about an asshole “hero” but they are always my favorite. (maybe because I married one!) I like the character development though I do have a tiny issue with the plotline. These guys are good enough to be scouted by the pros which insinuates D1 schools and athletics. Recreational drug use is not tolerated, and drug testing does occur – it bugs me a bit that it doesn’t seem like a big deal because in reality; it is.
October 19, 2016
The male lead is more arrogant than cocky and the female lead lets him treat her like a doormat and worse, she knows it too! Yes, all relationships are not fairy tale neither they go without argument. But this is pathetic! Also he swears in every sentence he speaks. Everyone deserves a second chance is something I agree. Okay, even may be a third chance. But the heroine gave him like fifth sixth chance. I just wanted to be done with this book. I think Owen and Minka made the book little bearable.
I want to quote Calvin, "You can't turn on creativity like a faucet". I think same holds for feelings too. One day you can't hate that person and the next day you can't start liking them, let alone love. And because she is the only person who is willing to put up with all his nonsense, he realizes that "hey, even after I treat her so badly she is still looking to be with me and forgive me, why not I fall in love with her? bam! I'm in love" Urgh!!!
I want to quote Calvin, "You can't turn on creativity like a faucet". I think same holds for feelings too. One day you can't hate that person and the next day you can't start liking them, let alone love. And because she is the only person who is willing to put up with all his nonsense, he realizes that "hey, even after I treat her so badly she is still looking to be with me and forgive me, why not I fall in love with her? bam! I'm in love" Urgh!!!
July 25, 2021
This had a lot of ups and downs, but such a great read. Miles who’s life is filled with more hurt and heartbreak then anyone should have to handle. Chloe who has loved Miles her whole life, but had been treated to nothing but his hate and anger. Chloe and Miles are partnered in a dance contest. Miles is not happy about it, but Chloe does her best to make him see that they are good together.
Miles finally stands up to his father and tries to live the life he wants. Miles finally sees that Chloe is the one that is always there for him and they get the HEA they deserve.
Miles finally stands up to his father and tries to live the life he wants. Miles finally sees that Chloe is the one that is always there for him and they get the HEA they deserve.
December 12, 2015
4 stars!
I finished Hitting to Win in one day and that's actually saying enough about what I thought of it. I thought this was an amazing story and I'm really glad I got the chance to read it.
“I’m not sure what else to say, Miles. You made it very clear years ago you weren’t interested in me, and what you do now is really none of my business. My feelings are my feelings, and those are things I have to deal with.”
What the book is about
Miles is a six-foot-seven hunk with blond hair and two different colors for eyes (pale blue and green as grass). Unfortunately Miles lost himself, due to different circumstances, one of them the break-up with his ex-girlfriend. Beforehand you always saw a smile on Miles' face, but now he drowns himself in alcohol and women. Until he receives his last warning: he needs to clean up his act. Otherwise he will be kicked out of his sorority and will lose his spot on the baseball team and baseball is his life. There is one solution: take part in the annual Greek dancing competition. There is just one little problem: his partner is Chloe, a tall Italian girl with black hair cascading down her back and violet-colored eyes. She's always happy, it seems, and she wants to brighten up the people around her. To her, dancing is her life. The liveliness of Chloe irritates Miles to no end. Chloe has had a crush on Miles for forever, but one year ago Miles made it perfectly clear that he's not interested. Ever since she tries to avoid him and above all she tries to forget about him. Until she has to partner up with him and can't get out of it.
“I do it anyway, bring my eyes level with his heterochromatic stare, dismissing all the air in my lungs. We stand, pressed against each other, as the song fills the air around it.”
What I liked about the book
The best part of the book was the way Carrie describes the characters. You really get to know Miles and Chloe and you see them grow throughout the book. Especially Miles undergoes an epic transformation and that transformation is just very realistic. The writer shows that changes aren't made easily and without effort. Miles makes mistakes, but he learns from them and keeps on working on the issue. Another thing I really liked was the end, because the book doesn't stop abruptly, which does happen often. The end of the story of Chloe and Miles is described in a beautiful way and the epilogue is just the icing on the cake.
Hitting to Win contains multiple sex scenes, but fortunately the sex doesn't dominate the story. It's also nice that the desirability and relationship between Miles and Chloe don't only thrive on sex. The book is a follow-up to another book, but I didn't read that. That book centrals around Minka and Owen and they also play roles in Hitting to Win. Minka is one of Chloe's best friends and Owen is Miles' best friend. In spite of being part of a serie of books, you can very well read it as a standalone.
“He takes his hands of my face, his lips never leaving mine, and moves them to my hips. Then, slowly, he starts moving my body, shimmying it slowly back and forth. And I realize, in our hazy revery in sensual kisses, that we’re dancing.”
What I didn’t like about the book
There were a couple of points I didn't like that much. First of all, I thought Chloe forgave Miles way too easily for the way he behaved and treated her like shit. I get that she likes Miles and that because of it she swoons in his presence (I SWOONED TOO), but she really needs to grow a backbone. I do need to say that later on in the story she grows stronger and concedes less promptly. In addition I would have liked to read more about the troubles between Miles and his father. That would have given the story even more immersion and depth.
Another issue is the cover. Covers are important during my decision process to read a book. This book has two different covers and I didn't appreciate the cover of the version I received that much. It just wouldn't draw me to buy it. Though the other cover, I love. I mean what's not too love about that amazing muscle body.
“I think we dream so we don’t have to be apart for so long. If we’re in each other’s dreams, we can be together all the time.”
So…
So I finished the book in one day. I started at six in the morning and closed it at two in the night. It has been a long time since I finished a book that quick, but Hitting to Win just makes it simple. It's written in simple English, which causes you to fly through the story. It felt like I immersed myself in Miles and Chloe's world for a day and I loved it.
I enjoyed reading this book, but I didn't think it was impressive enough to earn 5 stars. Although it's an entertaining read, one you fly through in one day and one where you fall in love with the characters, it's not a story I will remember one year from now. That's the downside of reading as many books as I do, but special books keep me thinking about them and remembering them even one or two years on and those are the books that receive 5 stars. That doesn't mean this book isn't amazing and a recommendation for New Adult-lovers, because it really is. I'm actually thinking about reading the first book in this serie, because I'm curious about Minka and Owen's story.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. More reviews (in Dutch)? Take a look at http://chelles-blog.nl!
I finished Hitting to Win in one day and that's actually saying enough about what I thought of it. I thought this was an amazing story and I'm really glad I got the chance to read it.
“I’m not sure what else to say, Miles. You made it very clear years ago you weren’t interested in me, and what you do now is really none of my business. My feelings are my feelings, and those are things I have to deal with.”
What the book is about
Miles is a six-foot-seven hunk with blond hair and two different colors for eyes (pale blue and green as grass). Unfortunately Miles lost himself, due to different circumstances, one of them the break-up with his ex-girlfriend. Beforehand you always saw a smile on Miles' face, but now he drowns himself in alcohol and women. Until he receives his last warning: he needs to clean up his act. Otherwise he will be kicked out of his sorority and will lose his spot on the baseball team and baseball is his life. There is one solution: take part in the annual Greek dancing competition. There is just one little problem: his partner is Chloe, a tall Italian girl with black hair cascading down her back and violet-colored eyes. She's always happy, it seems, and she wants to brighten up the people around her. To her, dancing is her life. The liveliness of Chloe irritates Miles to no end. Chloe has had a crush on Miles for forever, but one year ago Miles made it perfectly clear that he's not interested. Ever since she tries to avoid him and above all she tries to forget about him. Until she has to partner up with him and can't get out of it.
“I do it anyway, bring my eyes level with his heterochromatic stare, dismissing all the air in my lungs. We stand, pressed against each other, as the song fills the air around it.”
What I liked about the book
The best part of the book was the way Carrie describes the characters. You really get to know Miles and Chloe and you see them grow throughout the book. Especially Miles undergoes an epic transformation and that transformation is just very realistic. The writer shows that changes aren't made easily and without effort. Miles makes mistakes, but he learns from them and keeps on working on the issue. Another thing I really liked was the end, because the book doesn't stop abruptly, which does happen often. The end of the story of Chloe and Miles is described in a beautiful way and the epilogue is just the icing on the cake.
Hitting to Win contains multiple sex scenes, but fortunately the sex doesn't dominate the story. It's also nice that the desirability and relationship between Miles and Chloe don't only thrive on sex. The book is a follow-up to another book, but I didn't read that. That book centrals around Minka and Owen and they also play roles in Hitting to Win. Minka is one of Chloe's best friends and Owen is Miles' best friend. In spite of being part of a serie of books, you can very well read it as a standalone.
“He takes his hands of my face, his lips never leaving mine, and moves them to my hips. Then, slowly, he starts moving my body, shimmying it slowly back and forth. And I realize, in our hazy revery in sensual kisses, that we’re dancing.”
What I didn’t like about the book
There were a couple of points I didn't like that much. First of all, I thought Chloe forgave Miles way too easily for the way he behaved and treated her like shit. I get that she likes Miles and that because of it she swoons in his presence (I SWOONED TOO), but she really needs to grow a backbone. I do need to say that later on in the story she grows stronger and concedes less promptly. In addition I would have liked to read more about the troubles between Miles and his father. That would have given the story even more immersion and depth.
Another issue is the cover. Covers are important during my decision process to read a book. This book has two different covers and I didn't appreciate the cover of the version I received that much. It just wouldn't draw me to buy it. Though the other cover, I love. I mean what's not too love about that amazing muscle body.
“I think we dream so we don’t have to be apart for so long. If we’re in each other’s dreams, we can be together all the time.”
So…
So I finished the book in one day. I started at six in the morning and closed it at two in the night. It has been a long time since I finished a book that quick, but Hitting to Win just makes it simple. It's written in simple English, which causes you to fly through the story. It felt like I immersed myself in Miles and Chloe's world for a day and I loved it.
I enjoyed reading this book, but I didn't think it was impressive enough to earn 5 stars. Although it's an entertaining read, one you fly through in one day and one where you fall in love with the characters, it's not a story I will remember one year from now. That's the downside of reading as many books as I do, but special books keep me thinking about them and remembering them even one or two years on and those are the books that receive 5 stars. That doesn't mean this book isn't amazing and a recommendation for New Adult-lovers, because it really is. I'm actually thinking about reading the first book in this serie, because I'm curious about Minka and Owen's story.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. More reviews (in Dutch)? Take a look at http://chelles-blog.nl!
March 14, 2023
Carrie Aarons is my comfort author, but i was so disappointed by it. for being a “baseball” book there was ONE page of actual baseball (yes i get it was “off season” but still). the beginning was good & the end was good but i got majorly bored in the middle, i had to push thru to finish. Miles acted like a child 99% of the time & Chloe was so blinded by her decade long crush on him that she let him treat her so shitty half the time. it was cute though how the story came full circle.
February 7, 2017
Beautiful
Carrie has done it again. This time with Miles and Chloe. We met them in book one but this is their story from start to finish. We get some background, a little bit of angst, a dash of humor here and there, and some sexy fun times.
Carrie has done it again. This time with Miles and Chloe. We met them in book one but this is their story from start to finish. We get some background, a little bit of angst, a dash of humor here and there, and some sexy fun times.
March 27, 2021
I enjoyed this one more than the first book, and appreciated that the maturity level seemed to be raised a bit. Hope the last one is even better!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews