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Callahan Family #4
Control Artist
Dahlia Akana has no idea where she’s going in life.
All she’s ever wanted to do is travel, and her inner circle pressuring her to figure out her purpose only makes her wanderlust grow stronger. But she’s comfortable being a nanny to her nieces in the small Pennsylvania town where her sister lives. Though she’s far overstayed her desired timeline, it’s a place filled with friends and familiarity while she plots her next move.
Until she meets the devastatingly gorgeous, obnoxious rookie who is slated to be the next superstar on the town’s top tier baseball team. He’s everything she doesn’t want, but can’t seem to stay away from. As they spend more time together, she discovers that he might just be the anchor she’s always looked for.
When secrets, lies, and a humiliating public scandal rock their world, will she be able to stay with him? Fight for him? Or will her age-old tactic of fleeing erase any shot at a happily ever after?
Garrett Chester has always known exactly what he wants.
To be the best pitcher in the history of the major leagues. And luckily, with more talent in his pinky than other people have in their entire body, he’s well on his way. It’s his attitude that leaves something to be desired. Cocky, reckless and soaking up his newfound fame, the rookie attracts the attention of the tabloid press.
When he meets the feisty woman just as beautiful as the flower she’s named after, she gives him a refreshing reality check. With each passing day, not only does he fall harder, but she makes him want to be a better man.
Except the past that haunts him inevitably catches up, and ends up taking her down with him. Alone, exposed and cast out, it’s a reminder of the childhood trauma that has always plagued him. Can he put the rumors to rest, piece together a career in shambles, and be the hero she needs?
All she’s ever wanted to do is travel, and her inner circle pressuring her to figure out her purpose only makes her wanderlust grow stronger. But she’s comfortable being a nanny to her nieces in the small Pennsylvania town where her sister lives. Though she’s far overstayed her desired timeline, it’s a place filled with friends and familiarity while she plots her next move.
Until she meets the devastatingly gorgeous, obnoxious rookie who is slated to be the next superstar on the town’s top tier baseball team. He’s everything she doesn’t want, but can’t seem to stay away from. As they spend more time together, she discovers that he might just be the anchor she’s always looked for.
When secrets, lies, and a humiliating public scandal rock their world, will she be able to stay with him? Fight for him? Or will her age-old tactic of fleeing erase any shot at a happily ever after?
Garrett Chester has always known exactly what he wants.
To be the best pitcher in the history of the major leagues. And luckily, with more talent in his pinky than other people have in their entire body, he’s well on his way. It’s his attitude that leaves something to be desired. Cocky, reckless and soaking up his newfound fame, the rookie attracts the attention of the tabloid press.
When he meets the feisty woman just as beautiful as the flower she’s named after, she gives him a refreshing reality check. With each passing day, not only does he fall harder, but she makes him want to be a better man.
Except the past that haunts him inevitably catches up, and ends up taking her down with him. Alone, exposed and cast out, it’s a reminder of the childhood trauma that has always plagued him. Can he put the rumors to rest, piece together a career in shambles, and be the hero she needs?
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2021
105 people are currently reading
441 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
June 18, 2021
Control Artist is the fourth sports romance novel in the Callahan Family series by Carrie Aarons. Each book can be read as a standalone as they focus on different couples, but I would recommend reading them in order as they are all tied together. Told in dual perspectives, this is Dahlia Akana and Garrett Chester's story.
Dahlia moved to Packton two years ago to help her sister (Hannah) with her nieces. She's always been a bit of a nomad, traveling around from place to place and never setting down roots. But here she's got her family and some pretty good friends, so she is content for now until she can figure out her next move. That is, until she meets the sexy and cocky rookie pitcher who plays for the Packton Pistons. He is everything she doesn't want or need. But as their paths continually cross, she finds herself drawn to him. Could he be exactly what she never knew she needed?
Garrett grew up poor in a trailer park with parents that paid him no mind. His sole focus was baseball with a goal of one day becoming a pitcher in the major leagues. Well, all of his work paid off and with his newfound fame, he has everything he could ever want - money, parties and beautiful women. But then he meets the one woman who won't give him the time of day, but he's always up for a challenge. He is definitely persistent and once he gets a taste, he wants more and more. Could she be the one woman who gets him to give up his playboy ways?
Each book in this series gets better and better. They are all tied together through baseball, but each story is so different and unique. This one was so romantic and steamy and just packed full of all the feels. I was completely swept up in Dahlia and Garrett's story, and I couldn't bring myself to put this book down. I loved every minute of their journey to happily ever after. Five stars from me for Control Artist and Carrie Aarons!
Dahlia moved to Packton two years ago to help her sister (Hannah) with her nieces. She's always been a bit of a nomad, traveling around from place to place and never setting down roots. But here she's got her family and some pretty good friends, so she is content for now until she can figure out her next move. That is, until she meets the sexy and cocky rookie pitcher who plays for the Packton Pistons. He is everything she doesn't want or need. But as their paths continually cross, she finds herself drawn to him. Could he be exactly what she never knew she needed?
Garrett grew up poor in a trailer park with parents that paid him no mind. His sole focus was baseball with a goal of one day becoming a pitcher in the major leagues. Well, all of his work paid off and with his newfound fame, he has everything he could ever want - money, parties and beautiful women. But then he meets the one woman who won't give him the time of day, but he's always up for a challenge. He is definitely persistent and once he gets a taste, he wants more and more. Could she be the one woman who gets him to give up his playboy ways?
Each book in this series gets better and better. They are all tied together through baseball, but each story is so different and unique. This one was so romantic and steamy and just packed full of all the feels. I was completely swept up in Dahlia and Garrett's story, and I couldn't bring myself to put this book down. I loved every minute of their journey to happily ever after. Five stars from me for Control Artist and Carrie Aarons!
June 20, 2021
Loving the Callahan family! This book focuses on the extended family of the Callahan group – Dahlia and Garrett. Garrett is the rookie of the team, and he lives his life to the fullest taking everything in and being extravagant because of his childhood and family life. Dahlia has always been very different from her sister and never living in one place for long but preferring to travel when she gets the itch to go, but after what happened to her sister’s first marriage, she has stayed put in town to support her and take care of her nieces. Garrett’s cocky attitude is both attractive and off-putting to Dahlia, and while she fights the chemistry between them for most of the book, when she lets him in its instant sparks. As we get to know both of these characters, we really see their insecurities affecting their relationship and become the root cause of them breaking up, but we also see them really support each other and help the other work through those insecurities and past trauma. I love Carrie’s books and her style of writing, and I can’t wait to see who’s next in this series to fall!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 15, 2021
Y’all this book was so messy and sweet. The hero—Garrett, I just wanted to hug him. He deserved so much love and a family. He was literally on a path to destruction. I wanted to smack him out of it, but I also felt bad about all the rumors that were made of him.
Dahlia is such a feisty character. There was moments where I wanted to help her see the world. She just always seems so aggressive about things haha, but I also adore her soft side we see with her family.
Garrett endured so much trauma from his childhood that he didn’t know any better until he crashed and burned. He was charming and gorgeous, but he also had a nonchalant attitude that got him in trouble.
The moments that they shared together were so beautiful. They were simple and filled with passion. I adore the ending. I feel like it was an eye opening moment what happened to Garrett and Dahlia finally found her place where she belonged.
Dahlia is such a feisty character. There was moments where I wanted to help her see the world. She just always seems so aggressive about things haha, but I also adore her soft side we see with her family.
Garrett endured so much trauma from his childhood that he didn’t know any better until he crashed and burned. He was charming and gorgeous, but he also had a nonchalant attitude that got him in trouble.
The moments that they shared together were so beautiful. They were simple and filled with passion. I adore the ending. I feel like it was an eye opening moment what happened to Garrett and Dahlia finally found her place where she belonged.
June 19, 2021
Control Artist is the fourth book in the Callahan Family series and took an emotional sledgehammer to my heart. Dahlia and Garrett were both lost souls, running from something and they found a solace in each other, even if neither of them wanted to admit it.
Garrett Chester is 23, gorgeous and the star pitcher of the Packton Pistons. He’s a ladies man, revelling in the life he has made for himself, desperate to escape his neglectful upbringing in small town Texas, and eager to keep his past out of the press. He’s worked so hard to get to where he is, and nothing is going to take that from him. Dahlia is a wanderer, who has been in Packton for two years helping out with her nieces and is starting to get restless again. When she meets Garrett at a party, he starts laying on the charm but unlike other women, she automatically fights it. Their attraction is palpable, no matter how much Dahlia tries to deny it, and their relationship progresses quickly. But someone is trying to mess with Garrett’s game, and succeeding, putting even more pressure on him than he does himself. Will he turn to Dahlia or will it be the thing that breaks them?
Garrett and Dahlia suited each other so well because they saw something in each other that no one else did. Dahlia’s restlessness meant she was constantly chasing something; she just didn’t know what. She had this wanderlust that only seemed to be cured when she was with Garrett, and whilst she fought it at every turn, ultimately, he was the only thing that made her feel settled. Garrett’s past was full of trauma and heartbreak, meaning that he never fully knew how to respect women, or love someone, but Dahlia was the first person to fully stand up and not let him walk all over her. She taught him how to open up to someone, be vulnerable and share the burden of your problems, as someone who loves you should. It took him a while to accept it, as he had never experienced it before, but once he knew what he had with Dahlia, he knew it wasn’t something he wanted to lose.
Carrie has written about abandonment and dealing with past trauma so well, once again I can’t fault her writing and the emotions it gives the reader. Ever since I read my first Carrie Aarons book last year, I haven’t missed a release, and that isn’t going to change any time soon, especially with the final book in this series coming soon!
*I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily my honest review.*
Garrett Chester is 23, gorgeous and the star pitcher of the Packton Pistons. He’s a ladies man, revelling in the life he has made for himself, desperate to escape his neglectful upbringing in small town Texas, and eager to keep his past out of the press. He’s worked so hard to get to where he is, and nothing is going to take that from him. Dahlia is a wanderer, who has been in Packton for two years helping out with her nieces and is starting to get restless again. When she meets Garrett at a party, he starts laying on the charm but unlike other women, she automatically fights it. Their attraction is palpable, no matter how much Dahlia tries to deny it, and their relationship progresses quickly. But someone is trying to mess with Garrett’s game, and succeeding, putting even more pressure on him than he does himself. Will he turn to Dahlia or will it be the thing that breaks them?
Garrett and Dahlia suited each other so well because they saw something in each other that no one else did. Dahlia’s restlessness meant she was constantly chasing something; she just didn’t know what. She had this wanderlust that only seemed to be cured when she was with Garrett, and whilst she fought it at every turn, ultimately, he was the only thing that made her feel settled. Garrett’s past was full of trauma and heartbreak, meaning that he never fully knew how to respect women, or love someone, but Dahlia was the first person to fully stand up and not let him walk all over her. She taught him how to open up to someone, be vulnerable and share the burden of your problems, as someone who loves you should. It took him a while to accept it, as he had never experienced it before, but once he knew what he had with Dahlia, he knew it wasn’t something he wanted to lose.
Carrie has written about abandonment and dealing with past trauma so well, once again I can’t fault her writing and the emotions it gives the reader. Ever since I read my first Carrie Aarons book last year, I haven’t missed a release, and that isn’t going to change any time soon, especially with the final book in this series coming soon!
*I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily my honest review.*
June 17, 2021
Control Artist is the next book in Carrie's Callahan series and it is right up there with Walker's book, Stealing Home.
Dahlia is Hannah's sister, whom we met in Stealing Home. She's sort of a nomad, never wanting to set roots anywhere and has enjoyed traveling the world. It was until her sister settled down with Walker, that Dahlia found herself staying in that same place to be closer to her.
Garrett has always known that baseball was his ticket out of his hometown; it's his passion and all he's ever really known. However, now that he's made it the big league, his ego has become larger than life. And his image has become more about his personal life than his baseball stats.
I really enjoyed reading about Dahlia and Garrett, both as individuals and together. Carrie not only stayed true to these characters and their mannerisms, but also showed their growth in a natural way. You could see their struggles and got a deeper understand how why they operated the way did.
Control Artist is a great sports romance that delivers a wonderful combination of angst, witty banter and off the charts chemistry. You will feel a mix of emotions with this book but it's soooo good. I enjoyed Garrett and Dahlia's story way more than I anticipated and that has everything to do with her story telling.
You can easily read this book as a standalone and it will make you want to go and read the other character's books too. Bravo, Carrie.
Dahlia is Hannah's sister, whom we met in Stealing Home. She's sort of a nomad, never wanting to set roots anywhere and has enjoyed traveling the world. It was until her sister settled down with Walker, that Dahlia found herself staying in that same place to be closer to her.
Garrett has always known that baseball was his ticket out of his hometown; it's his passion and all he's ever really known. However, now that he's made it the big league, his ego has become larger than life. And his image has become more about his personal life than his baseball stats.
I really enjoyed reading about Dahlia and Garrett, both as individuals and together. Carrie not only stayed true to these characters and their mannerisms, but also showed their growth in a natural way. You could see their struggles and got a deeper understand how why they operated the way did.
Control Artist is a great sports romance that delivers a wonderful combination of angst, witty banter and off the charts chemistry. You will feel a mix of emotions with this book but it's soooo good. I enjoyed Garrett and Dahlia's story way more than I anticipated and that has everything to do with her story telling.
You can easily read this book as a standalone and it will make you want to go and read the other character's books too. Bravo, Carrie.
June 20, 2021
The Callahan Family series just keeps getting better and better. Control Artist is the hottest and the most touching book yet!
Superstar pitching phenom Garrett Chester lives by the motto of "if it feels good, go with it," which tends to lead to many messes in his wake. But, unfortunately, just when he appears to have the world at his fingertips, it seems his messes (real and perceived) are coming back to haunt him.
Garrett's backstory pulled at my heartstrings. His horrible childhood and strong desire to be successful in baseball touched me. But there's so much more to Garrett than his sexy playboy persona! Dahlia can't shake the pull that she feels to Garrett, but she won't let him know it initially. She has no interest in being Garrett's side piece. Dahlia is complicated, independent, and feisty. With time, Dahlia and Garrett find their rhythm and see they have a lot in common between their connection and a mutual feeling of untethered.
The specialness of Dahlia and Garrett's connection is one of my highlights of this book. I loved how they figured out that they are at their best when they are together; admittedly, it takes some work and heartache before that happens.
This book is an interrelated standalone that you can easily read without reading the rest of the series. Fans of the series will enjoy the mentorship that Sin and Hayes provide Garrett.
Control Artist is a fantastic story of finding love when you least expect it!
I received an early copy of this book. This voluntary review reflects my honest, unbiased opinion.
Superstar pitching phenom Garrett Chester lives by the motto of "if it feels good, go with it," which tends to lead to many messes in his wake. But, unfortunately, just when he appears to have the world at his fingertips, it seems his messes (real and perceived) are coming back to haunt him.
Garrett's backstory pulled at my heartstrings. His horrible childhood and strong desire to be successful in baseball touched me. But there's so much more to Garrett than his sexy playboy persona! Dahlia can't shake the pull that she feels to Garrett, but she won't let him know it initially. She has no interest in being Garrett's side piece. Dahlia is complicated, independent, and feisty. With time, Dahlia and Garrett find their rhythm and see they have a lot in common between their connection and a mutual feeling of untethered.
”There is a calmness, a sureness, that settles over me when it's just us in the dark, using our kisses and caresses as words.”
The specialness of Dahlia and Garrett's connection is one of my highlights of this book. I loved how they figured out that they are at their best when they are together; admittedly, it takes some work and heartache before that happens.
This book is an interrelated standalone that you can easily read without reading the rest of the series. Fans of the series will enjoy the mentorship that Sin and Hayes provide Garrett.
Control Artist is a fantastic story of finding love when you least expect it!
I received an early copy of this book. This voluntary review reflects my honest, unbiased opinion.
June 17, 2021
I love this series I really do. It always makes me ugly cry only to make it all better with the HEA our MCs find at the end.
Garrett and Daliah were like water and oil at the beginning. He was a bit cocky and so confident and I loved how she put him in his place. The slow burn was driving me up the wall and I was so happy when they finally gave in to the attraction. All the bumps and hurdles that were placed in their path almost made them lose each other but fate intervened and made them see that all they needed was each other for things to find their rightful place.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog * * *
Garrett and Daliah were like water and oil at the beginning. He was a bit cocky and so confident and I loved how she put him in his place. The slow burn was driving me up the wall and I was so happy when they finally gave in to the attraction. All the bumps and hurdles that were placed in their path almost made them lose each other but fate intervened and made them see that all they needed was each other for things to find their rightful place.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog * * *
June 21, 2021
This book was HOT y’all! 🔥
I love how Carrie really brought the steam, angsty-ness, and sexual tension to Control Artist! 🙌🏼
Both characters grew throughout this book and they really had to work out their attraction to one another.
This series is coming to an end & I highly recommend getting your binge on!
I love how Carrie really brought the steam, angsty-ness, and sexual tension to Control Artist! 🙌🏼
Both characters grew throughout this book and they really had to work out their attraction to one another.
This series is coming to an end & I highly recommend getting your binge on!
June 18, 2021
Control Artist is the fourth book in Carrie Aarons Callahan series. This one follows Dahlia, one of our previous heroines sistet and Carrett a rookie pitcher.
If you enjoy sports romance, charming playboy guys and strong, fierce heroines this one is perfect for you.
Dahlia has always been a free spirited person with a lot of wanderlust. She never stayed anywhere for a longer time except for Packton. Garrett is a cocky, charming as hell guy who‘s one of the best pitchers ever but his past is coming to get him rapidly.
I really enjoyed Control Artist. It was fun, steamy and emotional.
4.5⭐️
If you enjoy sports romance, charming playboy guys and strong, fierce heroines this one is perfect for you.
Dahlia has always been a free spirited person with a lot of wanderlust. She never stayed anywhere for a longer time except for Packton. Garrett is a cocky, charming as hell guy who‘s one of the best pitchers ever but his past is coming to get him rapidly.
I really enjoyed Control Artist. It was fun, steamy and emotional.
4.5⭐️
June 20, 2021
I really enjoyed reading Dahlia and Garrett’s story. Neither one of the are looking for relationships but are constantly in each other’s world. So of course the chemistry is there and off the charts. Both are very determined and set in their ways so this lead to a lot of sexual tension and angst. When they finally cave, it’s major fireworks. Love this series and all the sports references.
June 17, 2022
Dahlia and Garrett are in the same family and friends circle, but Garrett is a cocky boy and Dahlia is not going to fall over him. They both can’t deny the passion so Dahlia let’s go and gives him one night, but they are so explosive that they decide to not do labels. The more they get to know each other the more they likes and it starts to be not just about the sex. Garrett has been getting slammed with bad press leaks. When the person leaking stories go to far hoe much can he lose? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing Book.
May 23, 2021
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
***May contain Spoilers***
In this next installment of the Callahan Family series we get to truly meet Garrett Chester and Dahlia Akana.
Garret is very handsome, driven, and talented beyond measure. This rookie oozes raw natural talent and has the makings to be a baseball legend. He is also known for being difficult and cocky, a huge player, and for being impetuous (he does what he feels like when the notion strikes).
Garrett has only had himself to truly rely on since he was a small child. When you exist solely for yourself with no example of how to live well, to love, and be loved you control what you can. His tragic childhood full of neglect has made him resilient and strong, but also unable to look beyond himself and the right now.
Garrett makes it to the major leagues on talent and grit. He is able to carve out a better future for himself than the lot he was dealt in his rural hometown. When you come from nothing and suddenly have so much, it is easy letting the fame and money take the wheel. Garrett falls into this trap giving him a less than stellar reputation amongst his teammates, the Pistons organization, and makes him tabloid fodder.
Between the media hits, his game slipping, and the realization that he has fallen for Dahlia harder than he ever imagined or thought he could; Garrett feels his control dissolve like quick sand and no matter how hard he tries he can’t seem to regain it.
Will the demons of his past, the follies of new wealth, the impetuousness of youth, and the vapid media machine crush his career before it can really begin?
Dahlia while exotically beautiful, is tough, direct (some would say brash or ballsy), and loving and loyal to those in her circle. She is courageous, has a zest for life, and a wandering spirit. This desire to explore, soak in the culture wherever she lands, and learn from her experiences has taken her across the world. Dahlia works as needed to support her wanderlust, giving her many skills and friends, but has also allowed her to keep them all at arms length. She can just move on, as a means to run away from her trials and the hard questions we often have to ask ourselves. Dahlia has become proficient at pushing her emotions to the side and moving on to the next adventure like nothing ever happened. When her sister needed her Dahlia came to Packton, PA and was there to help Hannah pick up the pieces of her life and begin anew. After two years, Dahlia has found joy in being with her family, caring for her nieces, the bonds of friendship with her girls, a job she enjoys, and the undeniable crazy chemistry with the frustrating but gorgeous rookie Garret Chester.
When it all comes crashing down in a hideously public way, where can Dahlia go? What can Garret do to contain and control this debacle? For Dahlia, her wanderlust seems to be at odds with the life she created in Packton. Her soul feels pulled in opposite directions. As everything implodes Garrett goes from panic to survival mode as the instincts developed as a child take over. The routine of the game and the demands of the sport keep him afloat while inside he has gone numb.
Can these two lost souls find the courage to be honest with themselves and each other? Will they stop running in fear and be truly vulnerable? Can they repair the damage to their lives and their hearts? Will Dahlia follow the advice and the wisdom of a Hawaiian proverb, to strive for her highest. Can she help Garrett do the same?
***May contain Spoilers***
In this next installment of the Callahan Family series we get to truly meet Garrett Chester and Dahlia Akana.
Garret is very handsome, driven, and talented beyond measure. This rookie oozes raw natural talent and has the makings to be a baseball legend. He is also known for being difficult and cocky, a huge player, and for being impetuous (he does what he feels like when the notion strikes).
Garrett has only had himself to truly rely on since he was a small child. When you exist solely for yourself with no example of how to live well, to love, and be loved you control what you can. His tragic childhood full of neglect has made him resilient and strong, but also unable to look beyond himself and the right now.
Garrett makes it to the major leagues on talent and grit. He is able to carve out a better future for himself than the lot he was dealt in his rural hometown. When you come from nothing and suddenly have so much, it is easy letting the fame and money take the wheel. Garrett falls into this trap giving him a less than stellar reputation amongst his teammates, the Pistons organization, and makes him tabloid fodder.
Between the media hits, his game slipping, and the realization that he has fallen for Dahlia harder than he ever imagined or thought he could; Garrett feels his control dissolve like quick sand and no matter how hard he tries he can’t seem to regain it.
Will the demons of his past, the follies of new wealth, the impetuousness of youth, and the vapid media machine crush his career before it can really begin?
Dahlia while exotically beautiful, is tough, direct (some would say brash or ballsy), and loving and loyal to those in her circle. She is courageous, has a zest for life, and a wandering spirit. This desire to explore, soak in the culture wherever she lands, and learn from her experiences has taken her across the world. Dahlia works as needed to support her wanderlust, giving her many skills and friends, but has also allowed her to keep them all at arms length. She can just move on, as a means to run away from her trials and the hard questions we often have to ask ourselves. Dahlia has become proficient at pushing her emotions to the side and moving on to the next adventure like nothing ever happened. When her sister needed her Dahlia came to Packton, PA and was there to help Hannah pick up the pieces of her life and begin anew. After two years, Dahlia has found joy in being with her family, caring for her nieces, the bonds of friendship with her girls, a job she enjoys, and the undeniable crazy chemistry with the frustrating but gorgeous rookie Garret Chester.
When it all comes crashing down in a hideously public way, where can Dahlia go? What can Garret do to contain and control this debacle? For Dahlia, her wanderlust seems to be at odds with the life she created in Packton. Her soul feels pulled in opposite directions. As everything implodes Garrett goes from panic to survival mode as the instincts developed as a child take over. The routine of the game and the demands of the sport keep him afloat while inside he has gone numb.
Can these two lost souls find the courage to be honest with themselves and each other? Will they stop running in fear and be truly vulnerable? Can they repair the damage to their lives and their hearts? Will Dahlia follow the advice and the wisdom of a Hawaiian proverb, to strive for her highest. Can she help Garrett do the same?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2021
Control Artist is the fourth book in the Callahan Family series by Carrie Aarons. Each can be read as standalone since they are different couples but I highly recommend reading the series since they are tied together. If you have then you have met Dahlia (Hannah’s sister) and Garrett (the rookie).
Dahlia moved to Packton two years to support her sister and nanny her nieces. It was supposed to be temporary but she hasn’t had the pull to move on. Yet. Which is surprising to her since she was a nomad and loved to travel and not settle in one place. Her family doesn’t get it. They just want her to be happy and Hannah doesn’t see that. Dahlia doesn’t see her future tied to one man! Children, and a white picket fence. She doesn’t want that. She wants to be free. Garrett would be perfect for just that. A roll in the hay with the rookie with a Texas drawl except he was just too young and too cocky for her. But he was persistent, and someone who is that cocky about his bedroom skills usually can back them up. Would giving up her resolve be worth it?
Garrett was new to this lifestyle. Money, women, parties, and everything he could ever ask for. He grew up poor and was living it up. He finally made it to the Big Show and after his rookie year, he was living high. Too high. No, not drugs. The lifestyle. He was arrogant, cocky, and stubborn. He knew his game was on top but now his personal life was hitting the tabloids. Baseball was his life. He wouldn’t go back to the trailer park. But what was wrong with having a little fun? And he knew he would have fun with the feisty Dahlia. He wanted her and he wasn’t going to just walk away from a challenge. But once he had a taste, he wanted more and more. To know her. To enjoy her. He might have been the playboy but she was the nomad. Would should take the risk with him to become more than sex buddies? Would the tabloids ruin everything before they could really get started?
This series just keeps getting better and better. I am not sure if there is more to come but I sure hope so! Garrett is cocky yes but he is also sweet, misunderstood, and a hot mess. I loved seeing all of his sides. The shameless flirt. And he met his match with Dahlia. She is a badass who feels a little lost but knows she will find her way. I love them both. Together, they are explosive and a little out of control, and sweet and it’s them. They made me laugh, cry, and get hot and bothered. ♥️
Quotes:
“I just met you, you’re my boss, and you’re complimenting my boobs? I think I found my new best friend.” I laugh.
She winks at me and takes on a valley girl accent. “That’s because I’m like, a cool boss, not a regular boss.”
“And a Mean Girls reference? Marry me.” I wink back at her.
“You feel like dancing, darlin’?” That deep voice is much too close to the sensitive slope of my ear. I don’t move though, and stop my body from swaying, not wanting to give him the upper hand.
“I hate country music.”
“Aw, sweetheart, that’s not what your hips were saying a moment ago.” That tone is pure sex.
His mouth is vicious, searing hot, and skilled beyond his years. He wasn’t lying when he said he could make me come so many times I’d lose my voice, because with the way his tongue is filthily commanding mine, I can feel an orgasm building. From just a kiss.
Dahlia moved to Packton two years to support her sister and nanny her nieces. It was supposed to be temporary but she hasn’t had the pull to move on. Yet. Which is surprising to her since she was a nomad and loved to travel and not settle in one place. Her family doesn’t get it. They just want her to be happy and Hannah doesn’t see that. Dahlia doesn’t see her future tied to one man! Children, and a white picket fence. She doesn’t want that. She wants to be free. Garrett would be perfect for just that. A roll in the hay with the rookie with a Texas drawl except he was just too young and too cocky for her. But he was persistent, and someone who is that cocky about his bedroom skills usually can back them up. Would giving up her resolve be worth it?
Garrett was new to this lifestyle. Money, women, parties, and everything he could ever ask for. He grew up poor and was living it up. He finally made it to the Big Show and after his rookie year, he was living high. Too high. No, not drugs. The lifestyle. He was arrogant, cocky, and stubborn. He knew his game was on top but now his personal life was hitting the tabloids. Baseball was his life. He wouldn’t go back to the trailer park. But what was wrong with having a little fun? And he knew he would have fun with the feisty Dahlia. He wanted her and he wasn’t going to just walk away from a challenge. But once he had a taste, he wanted more and more. To know her. To enjoy her. He might have been the playboy but she was the nomad. Would should take the risk with him to become more than sex buddies? Would the tabloids ruin everything before they could really get started?
This series just keeps getting better and better. I am not sure if there is more to come but I sure hope so! Garrett is cocky yes but he is also sweet, misunderstood, and a hot mess. I loved seeing all of his sides. The shameless flirt. And he met his match with Dahlia. She is a badass who feels a little lost but knows she will find her way. I love them both. Together, they are explosive and a little out of control, and sweet and it’s them. They made me laugh, cry, and get hot and bothered. ♥️
Quotes:
“I just met you, you’re my boss, and you’re complimenting my boobs? I think I found my new best friend.” I laugh.
She winks at me and takes on a valley girl accent. “That’s because I’m like, a cool boss, not a regular boss.”
“And a Mean Girls reference? Marry me.” I wink back at her.
“You feel like dancing, darlin’?” That deep voice is much too close to the sensitive slope of my ear. I don’t move though, and stop my body from swaying, not wanting to give him the upper hand.
“I hate country music.”
“Aw, sweetheart, that’s not what your hips were saying a moment ago.” That tone is pure sex.
His mouth is vicious, searing hot, and skilled beyond his years. He wasn’t lying when he said he could make me come so many times I’d lose my voice, because with the way his tongue is filthily commanding mine, I can feel an orgasm building. From just a kiss.
June 7, 2021
Each book in this series has been completely different and even though each book has had something to do with baseball, the stories are all unique in their own ways. I love that it doesn’t feel like I’m just reading about just the same thing, they all have their own lives which are interconnected in some way to the Packton Piston. I love how Carrie Aarons has in a way made this into such a homely feel type of series, I’ve enjoyed every book and the aspects surrounding them.
I never know what I’m going to get with any of Carrie’s books, but no matter what happens I’m always surprised and love every minute of it.
It’s another reason as to why I was excited to give Dahlia’s story a read as whilst she’s been there in support of her sister, Hannah it seems that Dahlia’s a little lost and that there’s so much potential behind her. It’s interesting getting to see how her story takes place because she’s such a free spirit and for someone that doesn’t stay long in one place, it’s incredible that she’s stayed as long as she has.
Overall, I thought that Carrie did such a great job and she did another amazing story that had me gripped and wanting more. It went it such a direction that I didn’t see coming, but I loved every second of it.
I’m intrigued to see if Carrie will do more stories for this series, it would be interesting to see what happens with some of the side characters, as they are an inter-cog into the story wouldn’t work as well as it does if they weren’t there doing their thing.
I honestly can’t fault this story and I’m looking forward to seeing what Carrie has next planned, I’d recommend give this a read as you’ll get so sucked in that you’ll think you’re actually there experiencing it all for yourselves.
Dahlia was there when her sister needed her help, yet even though it’s been 2 years since she arrived to help her, Hannah is happy, in a loving relationship and gotten her family and couldn’t be happier. Yet whilst she’s still helping out with her nieces, Dahlia can’t help but feel a little restless, yet her body or mind can’t tell where she wants to go next. However, when Garrett decides to set his sights on her, she can’t believe how much of a rookie he is, each time she says no, the more stronger he goes after her. Garrett is known for getting what he wants and doing everything in his power to make sure that happens, but after the way he grew up, it’s understandable.
Dahlia is still trying to figure out which direction her life is going to go, however will Garrett be the answer or will she realise that where the home of the Packton Pistion’s are, isn’t for her?
I never know what I’m going to get with any of Carrie’s books, but no matter what happens I’m always surprised and love every minute of it.
It’s another reason as to why I was excited to give Dahlia’s story a read as whilst she’s been there in support of her sister, Hannah it seems that Dahlia’s a little lost and that there’s so much potential behind her. It’s interesting getting to see how her story takes place because she’s such a free spirit and for someone that doesn’t stay long in one place, it’s incredible that she’s stayed as long as she has.
Overall, I thought that Carrie did such a great job and she did another amazing story that had me gripped and wanting more. It went it such a direction that I didn’t see coming, but I loved every second of it.
I’m intrigued to see if Carrie will do more stories for this series, it would be interesting to see what happens with some of the side characters, as they are an inter-cog into the story wouldn’t work as well as it does if they weren’t there doing their thing.
I honestly can’t fault this story and I’m looking forward to seeing what Carrie has next planned, I’d recommend give this a read as you’ll get so sucked in that you’ll think you’re actually there experiencing it all for yourselves.
Dahlia was there when her sister needed her help, yet even though it’s been 2 years since she arrived to help her, Hannah is happy, in a loving relationship and gotten her family and couldn’t be happier. Yet whilst she’s still helping out with her nieces, Dahlia can’t help but feel a little restless, yet her body or mind can’t tell where she wants to go next. However, when Garrett decides to set his sights on her, she can’t believe how much of a rookie he is, each time she says no, the more stronger he goes after her. Garrett is known for getting what he wants and doing everything in his power to make sure that happens, but after the way he grew up, it’s understandable.
Dahlia is still trying to figure out which direction her life is going to go, however will Garrett be the answer or will she realise that where the home of the Packton Pistion’s are, isn’t for her?
May 28, 2021
I have loved this series each book is amazing in its own way so I was excited about Garrett’s story. From the previous book about Hannah and Walker’s story we got to see a glimpse of the type of relationship that Garrett and Dahlia would have. They love to rile each other up and get underneath each other’s skin but Dahlia has a wanderlust spirit and loves to run from problems or uncomfortable situations. Garrett is the team’s cocky playboy who is known for his antics inside and out of the bedroom and ballpark, so Dahlia tries to steer clear of him. The more we learn about his past the more I felt so bad for him and seemed to understand him better. I really wanted to love this story, but I found myself not caring that much for Dahlia because it seemed she was so judgmental towards Garrett when she herself hated to be judged. I kind of felt he deserved more than someone who is constantly always looking for an escape exit. Garrett could be a jerk at times while he was working through his feelings and he deserved some of Dahlia’s ire, but he has never had anyone to be there for him before and that’s no excuse for his behavior but maybe deserves some understanding. These two were almost total opposites and somehow it works for them and I did enjoy their banter and steamy times, I just wished I connected more with Dahlia. Hayes inspirational speech for Garrett was a little infuriating at first then it made sense no one knew the real Garrett and he did need to ground himself, but would Dahlia be running away the first chance she gets when things get too real? Will Garrett finally grow up and stand up for himself when he never really was the one doing those things the media loved to label him with? This was another amazing story in this series and even if I didn’t connect with Dahlia, I still respected her tenacity and spunk for life but I completely understood how Garrett felt he was being abandoned by those around him yet again when he needs someone the most to stand by him or with him.
June 17, 2021
Another great story in Carrie Aaron’s’ Callahan Family series. Although, Garrett and Dahlia are kind of Callahan-adjacent as Walker’s sister-in-law and teammate 😄
Dahlia is a free spirit, but she’s been living in Packton for the past few years, taking care of Hannah’s girls. She’s feeling the itch to do more with her life, that there is something missing, even though she loves spending time with her family and friends. Starting up a no-strings fling with the Pistons’ cocky rookie, Garrett, is the last thing Dahlia wanted to do. He’s a few years younger, a player, prone to media scandal, and she although she desperately tries to stay away, she just can’t ignore the pull between them.
For Garrett, Dahlia is a breath of fresh air. She challenges him, doesn’t Dawn all over him, and made him work for a shot with her. The more time they spend together, the more Garrett and Dahlia begin to think that the other is what they’ve been missing in their life. But when Dahlia finds herself drawn into Garrett’s latest scandal, will it being them closer together or break them apart for good?
I really liked the push and pull between Dahlia and Garrett! Control Artist is a little grittier than some of CA’s other books in this series, and it’s also hotter and steamier! That club bathroom scene was on fire!! Their relationship progresses nicely from carnal lust to a genuine deep love, as they trust that they can open up to one another.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
Dahlia is a free spirit, but she’s been living in Packton for the past few years, taking care of Hannah’s girls. She’s feeling the itch to do more with her life, that there is something missing, even though she loves spending time with her family and friends. Starting up a no-strings fling with the Pistons’ cocky rookie, Garrett, is the last thing Dahlia wanted to do. He’s a few years younger, a player, prone to media scandal, and she although she desperately tries to stay away, she just can’t ignore the pull between them.
For Garrett, Dahlia is a breath of fresh air. She challenges him, doesn’t Dawn all over him, and made him work for a shot with her. The more time they spend together, the more Garrett and Dahlia begin to think that the other is what they’ve been missing in their life. But when Dahlia finds herself drawn into Garrett’s latest scandal, will it being them closer together or break them apart for good?
I really liked the push and pull between Dahlia and Garrett! Control Artist is a little grittier than some of CA’s other books in this series, and it’s also hotter and steamier! That club bathroom scene was on fire!! Their relationship progresses nicely from carnal lust to a genuine deep love, as they trust that they can open up to one another.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
February 8, 2022
When I first saw that this book was going to be about Dahlia and Garrett, I was surprised! I always thought, based on the other books, that she would be with Clark (he's with Anna in the next book in the series, "Tagging Up").
I think that their dynamic was really interesting, especially with the internal and external looming threats. Garrett is dealing with someone leaking his past to the press, and Dahlia is struggling with her wanderlust. Neither were born in or grew up in Packton, but Dahlia is used to traveling all over the world, so putting down roots isn't something she's looking to do. These underlying factors, along with the fact that neither of them are looking for a relationship, leads to a lot of tension and room for problems.
It was nice to see the two of them challenge each other, and I was surprised at how their story ended up. It was bittersweet in some ways (don't worry, it's still HEA), but an interesting change to the series that I wasn't expecting. Since this was the fourth book in the series, it was nice to get to see the characters from the previous books, especially Hannah and Walker.
Overall, I think this was a fun addition to the series, and a great read for those who enjoy sports romances, especially those involving baseball! As with all new adult books, I recommend them for 18+ due to some of the sexual content, but as always, you do you.
I think that their dynamic was really interesting, especially with the internal and external looming threats. Garrett is dealing with someone leaking his past to the press, and Dahlia is struggling with her wanderlust. Neither were born in or grew up in Packton, but Dahlia is used to traveling all over the world, so putting down roots isn't something she's looking to do. These underlying factors, along with the fact that neither of them are looking for a relationship, leads to a lot of tension and room for problems.
It was nice to see the two of them challenge each other, and I was surprised at how their story ended up. It was bittersweet in some ways (don't worry, it's still HEA), but an interesting change to the series that I wasn't expecting. Since this was the fourth book in the series, it was nice to get to see the characters from the previous books, especially Hannah and Walker.
Overall, I think this was a fun addition to the series, and a great read for those who enjoy sports romances, especially those involving baseball! As with all new adult books, I recommend them for 18+ due to some of the sexual content, but as always, you do you.
June 18, 2021
Two lost souls finding each other...
Control Artist is the fourth book in the ‘Callahan Family’ series by Carrie Aarons. It’s kind of a standalones as well because no actual Callahan’s were romanced in the telling of this tale, lol. This is Hannah’s (Stealing Home) sister, Dahlia’s story, one that she shares with Garrett, another player on the Packton Pistol team who first appeared in Check Swing (Sinclair and Frankie’s story).
It’s a great story nonetheless, and Carrie, as always, has done us proud.
Dahlia had always been a wanderer before she moved in with her sister, and now after two years in the one place she’s maybe ready for more.
That more comes in the shape of star pitcher, Garrett. He’s slightly younger, full of himself and sometimes arrogant, but with Dahlia, he can be his real self.
These two had a tough road to travel, and I couldn’t help falling for them. Dahlia tries to act strong but sometimes she just needs to let go. Garrett has a sweet, swoony side that blossomed under the right care. And that ending… it was just soo perfect.
Control Artist is the fourth book in the ‘Callahan Family’ series by Carrie Aarons. It’s kind of a standalones as well because no actual Callahan’s were romanced in the telling of this tale, lol. This is Hannah’s (Stealing Home) sister, Dahlia’s story, one that she shares with Garrett, another player on the Packton Pistol team who first appeared in Check Swing (Sinclair and Frankie’s story).
It’s a great story nonetheless, and Carrie, as always, has done us proud.
Dahlia had always been a wanderer before she moved in with her sister, and now after two years in the one place she’s maybe ready for more.
That more comes in the shape of star pitcher, Garrett. He’s slightly younger, full of himself and sometimes arrogant, but with Dahlia, he can be his real self.
These two had a tough road to travel, and I couldn’t help falling for them. Dahlia tries to act strong but sometimes she just needs to let go. Garrett has a sweet, swoony side that blossomed under the right care. And that ending… it was just soo perfect.
June 7, 2021
This is a must read addition to an amazing series (I think each new book becomes my new fave)!
Garrett comes from a dirt poor and unhappy upbringing where baseball was his only lifeline. Now that he’s making millions as the starting pitcher for the Packton Pistons, he’s also making bad choices.
Dahlia is a wanderer, fiercely independent and just plain fierce! Helping her sister by looking after her nieces and bartending, she’s still searching for her ultimate happiness.
When Garrett comes on strong, determined to get her in his bed, she has no trouble turning him down over and over again...or so it would appear, but underneath she’s battling her strong attraction for him. It doesn’t take long for these two to give into the sexual tension between them, and damn, are they hot!
Their undeniable chemistry may have brought them together, but the push and pull, keeping each other on their toes, and a bond that neither one of them can explain keeps them close.
Scandal and heartbreak finally tore them apart as their worlds spun out of control! At this point, no way could I put this book down, needing to know how it was going to play out.
A love that was unlikely, unexpected, and unbelievably beautiful!
Garrett comes from a dirt poor and unhappy upbringing where baseball was his only lifeline. Now that he’s making millions as the starting pitcher for the Packton Pistons, he’s also making bad choices.
Dahlia is a wanderer, fiercely independent and just plain fierce! Helping her sister by looking after her nieces and bartending, she’s still searching for her ultimate happiness.
When Garrett comes on strong, determined to get her in his bed, she has no trouble turning him down over and over again...or so it would appear, but underneath she’s battling her strong attraction for him. It doesn’t take long for these two to give into the sexual tension between them, and damn, are they hot!
Their undeniable chemistry may have brought them together, but the push and pull, keeping each other on their toes, and a bond that neither one of them can explain keeps them close.
Scandal and heartbreak finally tore them apart as their worlds spun out of control! At this point, no way could I put this book down, needing to know how it was going to play out.
A love that was unlikely, unexpected, and unbelievably beautiful!
June 13, 2021
Every new book in this series has become my new favourite, and this one is no exception...the characters are amazing and each story is a must read!
Garrett comes from a dirt poor and unhappy upbringing where baseball was his only lifeline. Now that he’s making millions as the starting pitcher for the Packton Pistons, he’s also making bad choices.
Dahlia is a wanderer, fiercely independent and just plain fierce! Helping her sister by looking after her nieces and bartending, she’s still searching for her ultimate happiness.
When Garrett comes on strong, determined to get her in his bed, she has no trouble turning him down over and over again...or so it would appear, but underneath she’s battling her strong attraction for him. It doesn’t take long for these two to give into the sexual tension between them, and damn, are they hot!
Their undeniable chemistry may have brought them together, but the push and pull, keeping each other on their toes, and a bond that neither one of them can explain keeps them close.
Scandal and heartbreak finally tore them apart as their worlds spun out of control! At this point, no way could I put this book down, needing to know how it was going to play out.
A love that was unlikely, unexpected, and unbelievably beautiful!
Garrett comes from a dirt poor and unhappy upbringing where baseball was his only lifeline. Now that he’s making millions as the starting pitcher for the Packton Pistons, he’s also making bad choices.
Dahlia is a wanderer, fiercely independent and just plain fierce! Helping her sister by looking after her nieces and bartending, she’s still searching for her ultimate happiness.
When Garrett comes on strong, determined to get her in his bed, she has no trouble turning him down over and over again...or so it would appear, but underneath she’s battling her strong attraction for him. It doesn’t take long for these two to give into the sexual tension between them, and damn, are they hot!
Their undeniable chemistry may have brought them together, but the push and pull, keeping each other on their toes, and a bond that neither one of them can explain keeps them close.
Scandal and heartbreak finally tore them apart as their worlds spun out of control! At this point, no way could I put this book down, needing to know how it was going to play out.
A love that was unlikely, unexpected, and unbelievably beautiful!
June 16, 2021
While Sin is still my favorite bad boy in the series, Garrett came pretty close to stealing his spot 🤏 He's such a cocky, but broken man that you can't help but love him. And Dahlia! Gosh I love her! So feisty and brutally honest, I'd love to read more about her. And steamy 🥵 Wowzers! Garrett Chester is fantasy material!
Dahlia is Hannah's sister and has been helping out with the girls since Hannah's divorce. She's got a gypsy soul and has never been content with sticking around one place for very long. 2 years of Packton and she's getting that itch but can't see herself leaving. And then in walks the new star pitcher, Garrett Chester. He's all brawn and swagger and Dahlia knows better than to get anywhere near him, but boy is he persistent. She knows she'll just be another notch on his belt and shuts him right down, but that just makes him want her more.
Garrett has never been told no before and it brings out his competitive side. Now, not only does he want Dahlia, but he has to have her. He loves that she's feisty and honest to a fault. Not only does he want to bed her, he wants to banter with her and that's a new feeling to him. But he's all in, whatever it takes to make this woman his.
Dahlia is Hannah's sister and has been helping out with the girls since Hannah's divorce. She's got a gypsy soul and has never been content with sticking around one place for very long. 2 years of Packton and she's getting that itch but can't see herself leaving. And then in walks the new star pitcher, Garrett Chester. He's all brawn and swagger and Dahlia knows better than to get anywhere near him, but boy is he persistent. She knows she'll just be another notch on his belt and shuts him right down, but that just makes him want her more.
Garrett has never been told no before and it brings out his competitive side. Now, not only does he want Dahlia, but he has to have her. He loves that she's feisty and honest to a fault. Not only does he want to bed her, he wants to banter with her and that's a new feeling to him. But he's all in, whatever it takes to make this woman his.
June 17, 2021
Garrett Chester has a legend to create. He is young, devastatingly handsome, and focused on his career as a starting pitcher. Women come and go but there has never been one to hold his attention. He has the arrogance to go with his athletic abilities on and off the field. Oh, and he is a Texas boy! The accent alone melts panties.
Dahlia Akana is living life day to day. She loves where she is right now in her life but she along with everyone else knows that she could be gone tomorrow. She is a free spirit and is constantly seeking her next big adventure.
This couple is explosive. Garrett knows Dahlia is meant to mean something to him. Dahlia will not get her hopes up with Garrett because she is not one to label any sort of relationship. Garrett has always been in control, but rumors, allegations and humiliating circumstances will threaten his control and the woman who has become so important to him.
This author has raised the bar again with another phenomenal story. The characters are real, and the situations are heartfelt. The Callahan’s are back, and we get to hear where they are in their lives. I love baseball and Control Artist is perfect for the beach or by the pool.
Dahlia Akana is living life day to day. She loves where she is right now in her life but she along with everyone else knows that she could be gone tomorrow. She is a free spirit and is constantly seeking her next big adventure.
This couple is explosive. Garrett knows Dahlia is meant to mean something to him. Dahlia will not get her hopes up with Garrett because she is not one to label any sort of relationship. Garrett has always been in control, but rumors, allegations and humiliating circumstances will threaten his control and the woman who has become so important to him.
This author has raised the bar again with another phenomenal story. The characters are real, and the situations are heartfelt. The Callahan’s are back, and we get to hear where they are in their lives. I love baseball and Control Artist is perfect for the beach or by the pool.
June 21, 2021
The "Control Artist" is the fourth and latest book in the Callahan Family series.
It's a cliché romance with lots of angst, grief, trauma, steam and love 💕
It was clear right from the beginning, that Dahlia and Garrett are absolutely made for each other.
Dahlia is a restless soul. She's constantly feeling adventurous and wants to discover new things. When she mets Mr Baseball she's currently babysitting her sisters children while deciding what's next to discover.
Garrett is about to become the next baseball superstar and is doing everything on his life to keep it that way. There happened a few things in the past that are unraveled throughout the story that push him into the media focus a little bit too much for his liking.
Dahlia is actually Hannah's sister (previous book) so they are kind of linked anyways.
Despite their instant chemistry Garrett and Dahlia start of as friends that will soon become more... 😏
I liked how the two of them were there for each other when their world collapsed and how they supported one another most of the time 💕
But I couldn't help but think that he was a bit too hard on her sometimes... Losing his demons on her and not really getting the help he badly needed... I saw a huge progress through the book and I loved them as their significant other/helper/rock but some things are just too much.
Either way it was a great book in a great series 💕
It's a cliché romance with lots of angst, grief, trauma, steam and love 💕
It was clear right from the beginning, that Dahlia and Garrett are absolutely made for each other.
Dahlia is a restless soul. She's constantly feeling adventurous and wants to discover new things. When she mets Mr Baseball she's currently babysitting her sisters children while deciding what's next to discover.
Garrett is about to become the next baseball superstar and is doing everything on his life to keep it that way. There happened a few things in the past that are unraveled throughout the story that push him into the media focus a little bit too much for his liking.
Dahlia is actually Hannah's sister (previous book) so they are kind of linked anyways.
Despite their instant chemistry Garrett and Dahlia start of as friends that will soon become more... 😏
I liked how the two of them were there for each other when their world collapsed and how they supported one another most of the time 💕
But I couldn't help but think that he was a bit too hard on her sometimes... Losing his demons on her and not really getting the help he badly needed... I saw a huge progress through the book and I loved them as their significant other/helper/rock but some things are just too much.
Either way it was a great book in a great series 💕
June 6, 2021
I love Carrie Aarons’s sports romances. She writes alpha athletes very well. I love them, I hate them, I am in constant awe of their behavior and how they seem to do everything wrong before getting it right. Being a professional athlete doesn’t make a man perfect or excuse his behavior, but it does make him bigger than life and very interesting to learn about.
Garrett is the epitome of a rookie ball player. He is a player by every definition. He has struggled to get where he is today, and I really loved his dogged determination to make something of himself. He is a complicated, frustrating man, and one I grew to love as the book went on.
Dahlia is also struggling to find what it is she wants in her life. I love the way she is written; as someone so devoted to family as well as someone who wants to stretch out and find a bigger life. Her connection to Garrett is explosive, and eventually, decisions have to be made by both of them.
Watching them go through trials, and to see where they end up? Lovely!! Another winner for me by Carrie! This has been a great series and one I highly recommend!!
Garrett is the epitome of a rookie ball player. He is a player by every definition. He has struggled to get where he is today, and I really loved his dogged determination to make something of himself. He is a complicated, frustrating man, and one I grew to love as the book went on.
Dahlia is also struggling to find what it is she wants in her life. I love the way she is written; as someone so devoted to family as well as someone who wants to stretch out and find a bigger life. Her connection to Garrett is explosive, and eventually, decisions have to be made by both of them.
Watching them go through trials, and to see where they end up? Lovely!! Another winner for me by Carrie! This has been a great series and one I highly recommend!!
June 19, 2021
Loved it.
Control Artist by Carrie Aarons might be my favorite book in this series. Garrett and Dahlia's dynamic made for great reading.
Garrett is the stereotypical pro-athlete wilchild playboy. Partying and women make for a lot of fun in the moment and some wild stories but how long can someone keep that up before there are consequences?
Dahlia is a feisty woman. Aggressive but loving, loyal but filled with wanderlust, Dahlia is at odds with herself. She wants to be free, but at the same time she doesn't know what kind of freedom she desires. She loves the life she has built in Packton, but at the same time she feels stuck.
Garrett's persistence finally wears Dahlia down and their lust for one another makes for an intense relationship from the start. Unfortunately, when you have two people at odds with themselves and they fall for each other, navigating difficulties can be a recipe for disaster.
When stories are being fed to the tabloids culminate into a scandal Garrett and Dahlia fall apart. The question is, are they strong enough to find their way back to each other?
I highly recommend this series. This is the 4th book and even though you can probably read them independently, it really is worth the time investment to read them all.
Control Artist by Carrie Aarons might be my favorite book in this series. Garrett and Dahlia's dynamic made for great reading.
Garrett is the stereotypical pro-athlete wilchild playboy. Partying and women make for a lot of fun in the moment and some wild stories but how long can someone keep that up before there are consequences?
Dahlia is a feisty woman. Aggressive but loving, loyal but filled with wanderlust, Dahlia is at odds with herself. She wants to be free, but at the same time she doesn't know what kind of freedom she desires. She loves the life she has built in Packton, but at the same time she feels stuck.
Garrett's persistence finally wears Dahlia down and their lust for one another makes for an intense relationship from the start. Unfortunately, when you have two people at odds with themselves and they fall for each other, navigating difficulties can be a recipe for disaster.
When stories are being fed to the tabloids culminate into a scandal Garrett and Dahlia fall apart. The question is, are they strong enough to find their way back to each other?
I highly recommend this series. This is the 4th book and even though you can probably read them independently, it really is worth the time investment to read them all.
June 4, 2021
Book 4 in the Callahan Family series is about Dahlia (Walker Callahan’s sister-in-law) and Garrett (Walker’s teammate), and I loved every bit of it!
The chemistry between Dahlia and Garrett was off the charts, but their push and pull was in a league of its own. I loved that Dahlia wasn’t so easily swayed to jump into bed with Garret. She’s strong and feisty, and she wasn’t afraid to stand her ground. And Garrett, it was nice to see him have to work for a woman, not just smirk and she falls at his feet. He’s cocky and self-assured on the outside, but the vulnerable side of him was even more attractive. They seem like complete opposites, but the two of them together are explosive.
I’ve absolutely loved every book in the Callahan series, and Dahlia and Garret’s book was no different. Carrie Aarons has created a fictional world that is truly amazing. These characters are so relatable and the family ties just make it super heartwarming. I’m excited to see what’s next for Carrie Aarons!
The chemistry between Dahlia and Garrett was off the charts, but their push and pull was in a league of its own. I loved that Dahlia wasn’t so easily swayed to jump into bed with Garret. She’s strong and feisty, and she wasn’t afraid to stand her ground. And Garrett, it was nice to see him have to work for a woman, not just smirk and she falls at his feet. He’s cocky and self-assured on the outside, but the vulnerable side of him was even more attractive. They seem like complete opposites, but the two of them together are explosive.
I’ve absolutely loved every book in the Callahan series, and Dahlia and Garret’s book was no different. Carrie Aarons has created a fictional world that is truly amazing. These characters are so relatable and the family ties just make it super heartwarming. I’m excited to see what’s next for Carrie Aarons!
June 18, 2021
4.5 stars - my favorite couple of the series.
Dahlia and Garrett are my fave couple of this series and seem to be the most real. They are both dealing with personal struggles - Garrett trying to get away from his past and Dahlia trying to figure out her future.
On the surface - they don't seem like they would fit - age gap, he's a cocky rookie, she's an independent woman, but somehow they complement each other like all good couples do!
This book was serious yet entertaining at the same time. Seeing them struggle when their relationship was new and Garrett's fame got the best of them, then seeing them get to the other side of that was very heartwarming. They both really grew up in this story!
If you've enjoyed the other books in this series, you'll surely love this one and seeing characters re-emerge. Seeing Sinclair in this one was another favorite part - he's come so far!! If you haven't read any - this does stand alone.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
Dahlia and Garrett are my fave couple of this series and seem to be the most real. They are both dealing with personal struggles - Garrett trying to get away from his past and Dahlia trying to figure out her future.
On the surface - they don't seem like they would fit - age gap, he's a cocky rookie, she's an independent woman, but somehow they complement each other like all good couples do!
This book was serious yet entertaining at the same time. Seeing them struggle when their relationship was new and Garrett's fame got the best of them, then seeing them get to the other side of that was very heartwarming. They both really grew up in this story!
If you've enjoyed the other books in this series, you'll surely love this one and seeing characters re-emerge. Seeing Sinclair in this one was another favorite part - he's come so far!! If you haven't read any - this does stand alone.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
July 30, 2021
I love the Callahan family series but somehow to me Garrett's story just seemed off for me. Don't get me wrong it was great seeing everybody again but Garrett just seemed way too cocky for me and Dahlia just so sweet in her own way. We see a wanderlust spirit in Dahlia totally opposite of Garrett yet in a weird way Carrie Aaron makes it work. To some people he is a player but in a way Garrett has his own demons to work over and seeing the Callahans there for him is great even Sinclair and Hayes. I wanted more of Dahlia than what we saw seemed to little and more on Garrett. Felt there was still a lot to explain about her and how she came into this wandering spirit. Baseball is strong in Garrett and in many ways he can be a great player and with the love of a good woman can go far. All in all was okay just felt like it was all one sided for me in this book.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
July 10, 2022
"Never thought I'd say this, but the horse and cowboy metaphors are really doing it for me. His dirty talk makes my whole body flush."
Rating: 3.5/5
In book four, we focus on cocky rookie, Garrett Chester, who has his sights set on Dahlia, Hannah from book two's sister.
Here are my random thoughts:
- I totally related to Dahlia's restlessness and how she felt untethered. I also have a wanderlust soul and she was speaking my language, even down to picking up random jobs to fuel my travels.
- I don't love a cocky hero and Garrett didn't quite win me over. I mean, I get it, he was a hot 23-year-old baseball superstar, so he's naturally going to be cocky and confident. But I wanted more... whether that was him having a softer side or throwing in some swoony moves!
- This was definitely one of the spicier books in the series, but I actually wish there was less spice and more development of their relationship (I know, who am I?).
- I thought the ending was pleasantly surprising.
Rating: 3.5/5
In book four, we focus on cocky rookie, Garrett Chester, who has his sights set on Dahlia, Hannah from book two's sister.
Here are my random thoughts:
- I totally related to Dahlia's restlessness and how she felt untethered. I also have a wanderlust soul and she was speaking my language, even down to picking up random jobs to fuel my travels.
- I don't love a cocky hero and Garrett didn't quite win me over. I mean, I get it, he was a hot 23-year-old baseball superstar, so he's naturally going to be cocky and confident. But I wanted more... whether that was him having a softer side or throwing in some swoony moves!
- This was definitely one of the spicier books in the series, but I actually wish there was less spice and more development of their relationship (I know, who am I?).
- I thought the ending was pleasantly surprising.
June 14, 2021
I think this one might be my favorite story in the Callahan family series, I take that back, I can’t pick a favorite I do love the whole series. What I love about this book is Garrett and Dahlia's story, I love how they weren’t looking for what they ended up finding in each other. How both didn’t realize that what they needed the most, what would fulfill them and make them while and happy was being with each other. I love Garrett’s southern drawl anyhow he called Dahlia Darlin’. I love Dahlia’s free spirit, her wanderlust, and loyalty to family. And I especially loved these two together, they are fire, the steam between them was unreal.
As always I just love it when books have past main characters in them. I love seeing couples and other characters later on in the story line. I especially loved seeing Sinclair pop up in this one and Hayes too.
All in all I love this story it was well written, well rounded and I devoured it in one sitting. This book was an absolute page turner.
As always I just love it when books have past main characters in them. I love seeing couples and other characters later on in the story line. I especially loved seeing Sinclair pop up in this one and Hayes too.
All in all I love this story it was well written, well rounded and I devoured it in one sitting. This book was an absolute page turner.
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