Hot, talented, and fresh to campus. Can Natalie trust the gorgeous new football player or will his team loyalty win out?
******** Natalie Chapman is drawn into a friendship and flirtation with Northern University's newest football transfer, Sebastian Swan, when her roommate and best friend, Annika, begins dating his teammate. Fresh off a breakup, Natalie isn't interested in hooking up with a player who has women chasing him all over campus.
But Sebastian claims his best quality is perseverance, and he has no problem pursuing Natalie instead. As the two grow closer, details of Annika's troubled relationship with the star quarterback come to light.
With the football team on the cusp of winning a National Championship, Natalie wonders if Sebastian's loyalty to his teammates supersedes all else. Can she trust him to do the right thing, or will he let her down when it matters most?
Wendy Million is an award winning author whose contemporary romances about strong women and troubled men have captivated her loyal readers. She is the author of the romantic suspense series The Donaghey Brothers, and the contemporary romance When Stars Fall, Miss Matched, and the NA sports romance, Saving Us.
Writing as W. Million, she has written The Bellerive Royals, The Tucker Family Billionaires, and the Little Falls small town series. Find those here: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
When not writing, Wendy enjoys spending time in or around the water. She lives in Ontario, Canada with two beautiful daughters, two cute pooches, and one handsome husband (who is grateful she doesn’t need two of those).
Sign up for her newsletter at: www.wendymillion.com to receive free bonus chapter content from all my novels.
Saving Us is not your typical sports romance story. It's much more than that. Whit characters that are still discovering themselves and what they ant from this life, with raw emotions and some very heavy and real life situations from the secondary characters, this is another must read story from a now favorite author. If you're looking for something different, this book is for you.
WOW. This story was infuriating. Some of the relationships were toxic, the men were overgrown boys, some of the women didn’t want to acknowledge reality, and yet...it was perfect. It was so utterly realistic because so many college athletes feel that they’re invincible. They’re held up to be gods among students and alumni. They’re provided pills and other substances by coaches or coaching staff. And some are truly violent.
Natalie was one of the only voices of worry and reason for much of this book, which made me love her. Sebastian was a cruelly immature manchild for a decent stretch, or at least portrayed himself as such, and yet I loved him by the end also. He was truly stuck between a rock and a hard place and was trying his best to make things right. Annika infuriated me at first, but her strength and determination to breathe free impressed me so much. But the real heroes here are Natalie, Troy and his girlfriend, Clay, and Natalie’s dad. They were all spectacular. They didn’t give up. They didn’t simply shut up. They continued to fight. And that made this a book so incredibly worth reading.
Saving Us is a different breed of sports romance, so it was very unique in the telling. I'm obsessed with college football, but I do know how many times star football players get a pass on things that the rest of us wouldn't, and this book showcases that remarkably well. I thought it was a book about a couple but honestly, it was more like two couples as the MCs. Natalie is in college but she certainly doesn't want a relationship especially with a football player. However, when she goes to a party with her bestie, Annika, she ends up catching the eye of Sebastian, while Annika gets the QB. Natalie & Sebastian are spending time together as friends because he's determined to make her his (Natalie won't give in easily at all), however, when Annika starts becoming a shell of herself, things which are revealed will make or break any sort of relationship with Sebastian as your team is your family so you always side with them. I do think while writing a story about what Annika went through is awesome, it took away from me imprinting on Sebastian & Natalie so I wish it had been two books but that's just me. Please decide for yourselves by hitting those one click buttons! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Loved this. The characters were real and believable. The comraderie between the two mc was outstanding. The storyline is relatable and something we see, unfortunately, too often. Loved this.
As with all the books I finish at an insane hour of which only vampires and I see - I will write my full, logical, and still long review in the morning. Meaning prior after sunrise and hopefully before noon. 😉
The HUGE take aways
- this book is a solid 5 stars for the plot, the writing, the characters...it checked all of my must haves and exceeded them.
-this book is about an abusive relationship. No sugar coating it. That is NOT a bad thing. I do think it’s extremely important to know going in that this book contains an very good example of manipulation, physical abuse, and emotional abuse. All of these tend to exist in a relationship that is harmful to a partner. While I strongly encourage readers to give this book a read- for those who feel these topics closely and deeply, it may not be the proper read for you. That is okay too.
- I solidly stand on my rating. I think Saving Us is a worthy read for people for many reasons. I think this novel is one of the best examples of how abusive relationships can begin, grow, and how an abuser can manipulate everyone in their circle - not just their partner. Ms. Million did a spectacular job of writing all of the roles/phases/worries and emotional toll brought on by being an outsider and insider to the abuse.
- This is a book that I would recommend to those who may have second guessed things they have seen, thought or witnessed yet didn’t report. This is a good read for those who may hold guilt or heaviness for not speaking up fast enough. This book helps with your side of the fence. One of the main characters struggles the entire book with their gut instincts, their trust in friends, and trying to determine what is “real” and what is “gossip”. It also highlights how ANY perceived position of power or celebrity can cloud this issue further.
-This is the book that covers all the hard grey emotions that swirl up inside you when you just don’t know what the right move is. What the right answer is.
- This is the harsh story of growing up in ways every parent fears that their child will experience, however written in a powerful way. Our heroes ARE going to be okay.
I had more in my mind than I thought I did for 2am ❤️
Ms. Million writes a gorgeous love story that winds in and around the tragic and the poison. Her story ends with hope for everyone. Well, except the villain. Read it. You’ll see.
This ending though - it’s for all the women who don’t know or don’t think they can get out until it’s staring them in the face. There is a breaking point. A point where you just say I’m too tired for any more. I want it to end and I want to heal. These characters are STRONG. Just like all the survivors out there.
4.5 Stars This is my first book by this author and her character depth is strong, her storyline draws you in from two different directions. Your typical sports romance is not at all what this book brings us but some hard truths about college sports & life. Though the main story is about Natalie and Sebastian, the side story of Annika and Johnny lead the direction. Hang on for the ride.
Natalie is all determined with her studies and achieving her goals. One of her goals is no dating of football players. But he bestie is all about football and manages to drag her games and parties when she scores the eye of the team quarterback. Where she meets Sebastian the newest player to the team. she is drawn to him but fights hard to keep him at arms length. Natty's overprotective nature and mistrust has her questioning the quarterback and his feelings for her bestie which causes some tensions.
Sebastian has one focus, or should have one focus and that is his football career that he has worked so damn hard for. This school and this team could be his big ticket. He certainly wasn't expecting Natalie and her draw. But as he tries to work his way into her life he shows us his soft, kind heart. When things go to hell and his girl is out for his Quarterback, life gets messy. How can he choose between football and his girl. The turmoil that Seb works through is difficult but in the end he makes the right choice.
Can Natty and Seb have the best of both worlds? Can they still achieve their goals but find time for each other. Will they end up another statistic of college sports and difficult times?
These characters drew me into the story. The slight bit of suspense and investigation was an added bonus for the mystery lover in me.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Saving us is a college sports, bad boy, suspense, romantic contemporary novel. This story is about: love, some steam, trust, heartbreak, a hint of darkness, manipulation, deceit, redemption, regret, forgiveness and contains sexual and physical abuse.
I have rated Saving Us at 4.5 stars and HIGHLY RECOMMEND–MUST READ!!! This is the first book I’ve read from author Wendy Million and was VERY impressed. I have to give her all the props she deserves for courageously and skillfully writing about sexual and physical abuse which; unfortunately, in most cases is considered taboo. If you are a reader and sensitive to such topics this book is probably not for you; however, is a powerful story to pull strength from.
I do have to admit, the story started off a bit slow and uneventful but soon realized I was being impatient and with the mindset of “I want the heavy stuff now,” spoiled I know. To the author’s credit, I understood that character development was very important and necessary for the smooth flow and transition of the story. Readers, don’t be impatient like me. I promise you Saving Us is worth the read and in the end you’ll be glad you did.
Natalie Chapman is a confident, indifferent, virtuous, outspoken, kind-hearted young woman with deeply engrained protective instincts and mistrust of others. Sebastian Swan is a college football running back, striking good looks, chiseled body, charismatic, kind, good-hearted, with a playmaker reputation and definitely not one for relationships. Their instant attraction for one another is obvious; however, Nat’s mistrust won’t allow her to act on her emotions and Sebastian will use his perseverance to win her over. Circumstances out of their control force them to make a difficult choice that could either strengthen their bond as a couple or end their relationship. As they journey through the events that unfold, they soon realize the love they share is not just real but deep, raw, with the emotional and physical charge that continues to pull them together.
I received a free copy of Saving Us through Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I expected a typical sports romance when I picked up Saving Us. I was surprised in the best way. I got so much more than that! Saving Us is a story of love, friendship, loyalty, self-discovery, and of course, college football.
Natalie and Sebastian's love story highlights the highs and lows of college athletics. The scandal that erupts around them requires both of them to make difficult decisions that have far-reaching impacts. Saving Us portrays pampered players with their near-celebrity statuses, the winning above all else mentality, and how sports can unify people for good and evil in a realistic manner.
I like both Natalie and Sebastian as individuals and a couple. Natalie is smart, strong, and independent thinking. Plus, Tim Riggins is her favorite Friday Nights Lights character (yes, another vote for fictional bad boys with hearts of gold)! Michael B. Jordan doppelganger Sebastian has never had to work to get a woman. I liked that Sebastian had to grow into being the man that Natalie wanted. He worked as hard in pursuit of Natalie as he does for his all-important football career. His love and devotion to Natalie shine through!
If you are a sports fan, particularly a college football one, and enjoy romances, Saving Us is a must-read book!
A powerful story! Natalie is an intelligent and independent young woman who recognizes the danger her best friend & roommate Annika is in when she sees bruises and marks on her friend.
She meets Sebastian while at a frat party with her best friend who is obsessed with the starting quarterback for the college football team. Sebastian is a womanizer and enjoys flirting with Natalie. They see each other frequently and both are interested, but Natalie wants more than just sex.
This is a well written story that weaves the potential for a new relationship around the dysfunctional and dangerous relationship of Natalie’s friend and Sebastian’s teammate. The suspense of just how far Johnny will take his anger and will his star player status make others look the other way.
The subject matter of the story is dark, but the author crafted an intense and likable story. I would love to read a future book to see where Natalie and Sebastian end up some years down the road. This was my first book by this author, but I definitely will consider reading other books by her.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and the author. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Definitly not what you might expect from a sports romance. Instead, what you get is more of the story behind upcoming sports stars, how loyalties and relationships are tested, and how some who are potential upcoming stars are protected by those around them from justice and can blind people from knowing who they truly are.
This is not the just the story of one couple, but two couples. Sebastian and Johnny, both upcoming football stars and best friends Natalie and Annika. Natalie is not a football fan, but she meets and gets together with Sebastian. Annika is a fan and falls hard for Johnny. Its not long before Natalie realises that Johnny is abusive, however Annika can't or won't see that and Sebastian hasn't known Johnny long enough to know the truth behind who he truly is and along that, Sebastians route into the big time league of football is with Johnny alongside him.
This was an good read, with interesting actions and interactions between the main characters and side characters. The events that transpire during the course of the book, pretty much solidified the way I thought they would, and in reality may have some truth behind them.
This isn't your normal sports book.. This one does include football but it takes it deeper then just that. The moral of this book is trust your gut, follow your instincts and choose the line between loyalty and love. Sebastian was the new transfer student that everyone had their eye on but the one person Natalie was trying to avoid. She didn't want anything to do with football players..until her roommate decided to date one.. Enter time with Sebastian. They started out as friends and mature into more.. All the while this happening, things are happening with her roommate that she can't ignore. It kinda put her into the middle and in an awkward position but she can't deny what she's seeing. See Natalie's dad is a cop and has shown Natalie some things over the years. Before long, she is forced to make a decision and hold her own. It puts her in a terrible position with Sebastian though. This book takes us further then just romance and football field. It takes us to the ugly side of fame and fortune, the one where the coach and star take matters into their own hands and create havoc with the female students on campus. I still don't agree with how things played out but honestly it's exactly how it would play out in court. This book was good with some scary moments and some moments that made you so proud of the characters. They have to test their strength and their relationships to get their happy ending. I really liked Sebastian, Natalie and Annika. Some of the friends in this was flaky and ridiculous but they added some fun.
Natalie has a friend who is in a relationship with the star quarterback. So she is around football players. When she meets Sebastian he wants to get with her but she is wary of dating to newly arrived football player who is sought after by lots of women on campus. So they start out as friends. This is more than a boy meets girl book. This book speaks to the tensions of team loyalty and doing what's right when you see things that are not right. Also the author takes us there in relation to some of the not so great things that can happen when people are given a pass because they are good at something but not always good people. I liked the tensions and the drama that face this pair in this story. Unfortunately, this is all too real for some people.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sebastian was a new football player on the college team. Annika and Natalie are best friends and roommates. Annika was all about the sports and Natalie was not. She didn’t really know anything about any sport. Annika started to date Johnny the football star of the team and Sebastian and Nat were getting closer but Nat just couldn’t explain why she didn’t trust him or go out with him. Natalie just broke up with her boyfriend Clay and was just getting back out there when Sebastian and her were becoming friends. Sebastian was a long time fan of Johnny’s and Nat didn’t like Johnny. Something wasn’t right about him but with her best friend Annika dating him she had to try to keep her opinions to herself just so there wasn’t any ill feelings toward them. As time went on Nat and Sebastian started dating and things were falling apart for Annika and Johnny. Johnny has a temper and isn’t the nicest but when the marks are starting to show and Nat is trying to understand till something happens and it crushes everyone and shakes them to the core.
Wow, Wendy did an amazing job on this college sports book. Sebastian is a football player new to campus hoping the star quarterback will help him get to the NFL. Natalie is smitten with Sebastian the first time she sees him but fights her attraction for a while. Mainly because her best friend Annika is dating the quarterback, Johnny, and he is a player. Natalie doesn’t want to fall for Sebastian only for him to break her heart with his womanizing ways. The dynamics of their friendship suffer when Natalie tells Annika her feelings about Johnny and how he’s not a good guy.
TRIGGER WARNING: there is abuse and violence in this story. But this story is told very well, it’s very realistic and shows the aftermath for the victim and the flaws in our court system and the collegiate sports world. Me Million wrote a thoughtful story that is definitely worth the read!
I received a free ARC from Hidden Gems for the promise of an honest review.
Domestic abuse is a hard subject to write about. This book was difficult to read in parts but wasn't as dark and gritty as it could have been. It is written well.
Natalie and her best friend, Annika were your typical college girls. Annika had been crushing on the college's quarterback, Johnny. Annika and Natalie attended a game and the after party when they meet Johnny and Sebastian. Annika and Johnny fell into a relationship quickly; however, Johnny gave Natalie bad vibes. Sebastisn pursues Natalie who is resistant. They start an easy friendship. Sebastian and Natalie have their ups and downs but slowly ease into a relationship. While they are developing their relationship, Natalie grows increasingly concerned about Annika. Annika isn't who she used to be. There were bruises. She wasn't laughing like she used to. There red flags and Natalie expressed her concerns.
This book becomes about loyalty and integrity. Natalie tried to step up for Annika which drove a wedge between Natalie and Sebastian. Sebastian has loyalty to his football team but yet this caused him his relationship with Natalie. You can see both of their sides and you will like them as charaters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Natalie and Sebastian's story was so good! I loved how real it was. They are both instantly drawn to one another but are hesitant to get involved for different reasons. Natalie is fresh from a breakup and doesn't want another broken heart. There were a lot of plot twists in this book, which I appreciated. It definitely wasn't your run of the mill sports book.
Such a good story that had me fully invested, and I really didn't want to put my kindle down. I had to know if what Natalie was thinking/feeling was regarding Annika and Johnny accurate or was it just her general dislike of Johnny having her think things were happening. Add in the relationship that was building between Natalie and Sebastian, and I was hooked.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. This book started off and had me questioning for a second why i started it. Where was it going? Then it got going and I could not put it down. This book had me angry for the people in it. I laughed, I cried, and I couldn’t believe what I read. It was an amazing book and I recommend everyone read it.
Natalie's story is great. When she meets Sebastian, she resists at every turn. But what's even greater than their story was Natalie and Annika's story of true friends. What an honest, insightful telling of an abusive relationship looked at from the outside and the lengths we go to for those we love to see the truth. 5+ stars!
This was a book about two college football players and the women they dated . Natalie was fresh out of a relationship when she meets Sebastian through her friend.Annika who is dating Johnny the quater back doesn't see his abuse of ways.There is physical abuse in the book and is written well and some drama.This is the first book I read for this author and was a great read
This book kept my attention like no others in a long time! I really enjoyed this storyline! So many plot twists! If you like a strong h, then you should really read this book. Does contain some possible triggers of domestic abuse and assault- FYI
This author was new to me and I loved the angsty writing that had me second guessing whether I love Sebastian or want to choke him. The ups and downs that Annika and Sebastian go through had my heart pounding as I flipped through the pages of this bo
I have to say this wasn't like the other sport stories I've read. I think this one , thanks to the author will make anyone who just loves to read a book with great characters and a wonderful story will have a hard time putting this book down.
This is my first book by this author but it definitely will not be my last. This is the first book in a new series and it was very well written. I loved the main characters and I thoroughly enjoying reading every single minute of this book. There are a few triggers for those interested in reading however, it was worth the read. Great book and definitely recommended.
Sebastian and Natalie have an interesting start to their relationship. These two fall hard and fast for each other. A great story with lots of drama and angst.
This was a heart breaking yet beautiful read about Sebastien and Natalie. We also get the story of Natalie's friend who is unfortunately in an abusive relationship. We see the progression of the abuse and how it is being handled by others in their group and the actual person involved in the relationship. This story was full of twists and turns and doing the right thing. Natalie and Sebastien had instant connection and were a great couple. I read this emotional, incredible, beautiful love story in one sitting. Loved this story and I can't wait to read more.
This book had me eating up the words. The story of Natalie and Sebastian is based in college and he’s a football super star. There’s so much going on between their story and the drama with her best friend and the crazy boyfriend that you don’t want to put it down!!!! I loved every page!