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North Woods University #6
The Jock
All it took was one frat party for me to notice her. Blair Jensen. Gorgeous nerd with a sharp tongue and give-no-shits attitude. The moment she sneered jock at me, I was captivated.
Then she poured a beer over my head and walked away like I was nothing. Nobody turned down Cage Wilder, nobody, and I knew then that I had to have her, no matter the consequences.
She bruised my ego and embarrassed me in front of my football buddies, turning me into the laughing stock of the team, so I made a bet with them. They claimed there wasn't any way I could melt the heart of Blair the Ice Queen; after all, she had shown her disgust for me.
Shutting off my feelings after we spend many late nights studying together isn't easy, and it doesn't take long for me to discover there is so much more to Blair than what everyone sees.
Sweet, funny as hell, and a believer in happily-ever-afters. I start to fall for her, but she has secrets too, things she's hiding, a past that haunts her, and I find I want to save her, help her.
She sees me for more than a football god, and she doesn't take any of my shit. Suddenly, I realize there is so much more to life than living someone else's dream. The bet I made still hovers over my head though, and I know that if I want more with her, an actual chance, I'll have to tell her the truth ... before someone else does. Question is, will she still want me when she finds out what I've done?
Then she poured a beer over my head and walked away like I was nothing. Nobody turned down Cage Wilder, nobody, and I knew then that I had to have her, no matter the consequences.
She bruised my ego and embarrassed me in front of my football buddies, turning me into the laughing stock of the team, so I made a bet with them. They claimed there wasn't any way I could melt the heart of Blair the Ice Queen; after all, she had shown her disgust for me.
Shutting off my feelings after we spend many late nights studying together isn't easy, and it doesn't take long for me to discover there is so much more to Blair than what everyone sees.
Sweet, funny as hell, and a believer in happily-ever-afters. I start to fall for her, but she has secrets too, things she's hiding, a past that haunts her, and I find I want to save her, help her.
She sees me for more than a football god, and she doesn't take any of my shit. Suddenly, I realize there is so much more to life than living someone else's dream. The bet I made still hovers over my head though, and I know that if I want more with her, an actual chance, I'll have to tell her the truth ... before someone else does. Question is, will she still want me when she finds out what I've done?
Audio CD
Published July 5, 2022
1137 people are currently reading
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About the author
J.L. Beck
237 books7,154 followersJ.L. Beck is the USA Today Best Selling author of unapologetic romance. She lives in WI with her husband, two kids, and four dogs. She enjoys writing and recently starting a literary agency to help represent authors in the industry.
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
did-not-finish
July 11, 2020
OMFG I QUIT. The story is interesting but I can't get over what HUGE whore this hero is. And trust me I tried!! But I can't escape it when literally every other sentence he says/thinks is about how he's a sex god, how much he fucks girls, how badly he needs to get laid, blah blah blah. It's never ending and to top it off the h is a virgin????? No, thanks.
Hero also has another chick almost blow him. He thinks Blair has a bf (it was her brother) and in a jealous rage calls some chick over, takes her to his room, she gets on her knees and he pulls his dick out before telling her to leave. WTFFFF.
June 5, 2020
THE NERD, the prequel to THE JOCK is free right meow! If you want to meet Cage and Blair one click now!! ❤️📚🏈
He’s a football god hiding a secret.
I’m a book nerd looking to break free.
What happens when enemies confide and become lovers?
🏈 https://amzn.to/3ebb6wK 🏈
⭐️ Preorder The Jock today!! ⭐️
Releases June 12th.
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/385Z0lP
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2vigyMU
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2vdXjEk
AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2SuUNRX
GOODREADS TBR: https://bit.ly/2z0kp3L
He’s a football god hiding a secret.
I’m a book nerd looking to break free.
What happens when enemies confide and become lovers?
🏈 https://amzn.to/3ebb6wK 🏈
⭐️ Preorder The Jock today!! ⭐️
Releases June 12th.
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/385Z0lP
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2vigyMU
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2vdXjEk
AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2SuUNRX
GOODREADS TBR: https://bit.ly/2z0kp3L
June 19, 2020
I cannot believe I made it to chapter five, I think I genuinely deserve a prize for that. Or, it could just be a serious indication of how desperately bored I am. Anyway, literally nothing about this book was even remotely entertaining or believable whatsoever. The hero is total asshole to the heroine and insults her the first two times they interact and then proceeds to describe himself as a nice guy. Yeah right, bro you literally called her a nerdy virgin in front of everyone in the first sentence you spoke to her. Who even does that???? Who calls a complete stranger a fucking nerdy virgin, and what's even worse is the fact that we are supposed to believe he was flirting with her... The only girl who would fall for that shit is one with zero self-respect. But, I guess since the heroine rejected him, which of course literally no other girl in the planet would have done because he is a hot, football god, we are supposed to be convinced that she is so so so soooo cool and 'not like other girls'. Apparently, a girl rejecting the hero is on the same level of punching a baby in the fucking face, so she suddenly becomes campus famous as the 'cold-hearted bitchy nerd' for DARING to reject the football god. No joke, she literally walked into class and a girl behind her loudly whispered “I can’t believe she turned him down. What a bitch. She’s not even that pretty.”. IN WHAT WORLD IS THAT BELIEVABLE? I honestly read this line and gave up, nothing could have made me finish this book, not even certain death. You except me to believe that the news of one girl turning down a random hot guy makes her public enemy number one and instantly recognizable as if she's a fucking Kardashian? Such utter bullshit. The hero also refused to take no for an answer and kept flirting with her after she told him she's not interested multiple times, which gives me rapey vibes and I honestly do not find that attractive at all. NO MEANS NO, it does mean keep trying until I eventually give in. Romance novels need to be entertaining and they should create a fantasy for the reader, but unless it's in the actual fantasy genre, books need to be grounded in reality. This book was so far from being realistic, they were literally on opposite sides of the world. If you do not want to raise your blood pressure or waste your time, skip this fucking train wreck.
June 13, 2020
5 CAGE AND BLAIR STARS!! This one held my attention from beginning to end. Their story was perfect....it was sweet, sexy and fun. I have only read two of the books in this series and I am dying to read the others. These two author make a good writing duo....the story flows perfectly.
February 18, 2021
J/p college football player and shy tutor? 👀
Oh, you say he placed a *bet* with his jock buddies??? 🤔🧐
Gosh, I don't knoooww... 👀
Just Kidding! Don't be silly.
You know I am down for that! 😁🥰 #alldayeveryday
What I liked:
• h is nerdy shy college student with her v-card. I *think* she's a freshman?? Maybe a sophomore?? so 19-20-ish?? I'm not sure that was made clear.
• H is a cocky manhooooar football player - H is actually aggressively j/p - both in mind and deed - it's quite refreshing ❤️
• if you liked #nerd, this plot feels very familiar, like a cozy blanket. 🥰 There are a few differences, but I think if you loved Romeo, you'll like Cage. There's also a protective best friend, and a shady roommate.
• he calls her "baby" 😍
• we get some good jealousy scenes and even a little dirty talk🔥🔥🔥
• the H gets all growly and crazy when his friends look at or talk about the h
• he's protective and sweet and follows her like a stalker at one point
What I didn't like:
• I didn't LUUUURRRVE the h 🤷♀️ - she was kinda witchy with a b... and she kept shutting down his possessiveness... "RAWR! Girl Power! I can take care of myself!" 🙄 *Meh* A little of that goes a long way.
• While I really liked that the authors tried to let the jock H be aggressive at times... they also pulled back at all the crucial points... and was all, "just kidding" or had him apologize and be really shameful about his actions. #sorespectful 🙄🤣 Maybe it's because this particular series is supposed to be less "dark" than their Blackthorn Elite series?? I couldn't help wishing I could get the Blackthorn version. 😬 🤷🏼♀️ That would have been awesome, and it felt a little like a miss to me. #sorrynotsorry #alphaholesaremyjam
• The only *real* drama comes from family stuff on both sides... neither was developed as much as it could have been. I would have liked more drama just in general. I think it would have added to the emotion and angst.
• there was a little OW drama that naturally stemmed from the H's indiscriminate se%ual past, and of course, I really wish we'd gotten a bit more of that fleshed out. It was kinda glossed over and was easily and quickly resolved. That's no fun. 😕 I'm a #dramahoooaar
• the only real OM drama was imagined drama that was quickly explained... again, it would have been nice for the manhoooar to get a bit of his own medicine FOR REAL, rather than any interest other men showed the h being imaginary. *womp-womp*
• It may have been a bit *too* close to #nerd... I know that this is a classic trope, and I'm not *At All* accusing anyone of anything nefarious, but I couldn't help but feel like there were just enough noticeable similarities that this book came out lacking. I think that if they had gone a bit darker, and set this in their other series, this might have even been a 5 star read... but because I spent so much time comparing, it detracted rather than added to the my overall enjoyment.
• I was a little sad that we get an aggressively j/p athlete, but he doesn't actually want to play football. I love football and football players, so this was a disappointing story line
Bottom Line? Overall I liked this. I stayed up quite late to finish it.
3.75 ⭐️s - for a consistently j/p aggressive athlete H. ❤️
⚠️For the Safety Squad⚠️
• no cheating
• no sharing
• no dubcon/noncon
• a little OW drama - but nothing that causes real issues with the H and h
Oh, you say he placed a *bet* with his jock buddies??? 🤔🧐
Gosh, I don't knoooww... 👀
Just Kidding! Don't be silly.
You know I am down for that! 😁🥰 #alldayeveryday
What I liked:
• h is nerdy shy college student with her v-card. I *think* she's a freshman?? Maybe a sophomore?? so 19-20-ish?? I'm not sure that was made clear.
• H is a cocky manhooooar football player - H is actually aggressively j/p - both in mind and deed - it's quite refreshing ❤️
• if you liked #nerd, this plot feels very familiar, like a cozy blanket. 🥰 There are a few differences, but I think if you loved Romeo, you'll like Cage. There's also a protective best friend, and a shady roommate.
• he calls her "baby" 😍
• we get some good jealousy scenes and even a little dirty talk🔥🔥🔥
• the H gets all growly and crazy when his friends look at or talk about the h
• he's protective and sweet and follows her like a stalker at one point
What I didn't like:
• I didn't LUUUURRRVE the h 🤷♀️ - she was kinda witchy with a b... and she kept shutting down his possessiveness... "RAWR! Girl Power! I can take care of myself!" 🙄 *Meh* A little of that goes a long way.
• While I really liked that the authors tried to let the jock H be aggressive at times... they also pulled back at all the crucial points... and was all, "just kidding" or had him apologize and be really shameful about his actions. #sorespectful 🙄🤣 Maybe it's because this particular series is supposed to be less "dark" than their Blackthorn Elite series?? I couldn't help wishing I could get the Blackthorn version. 😬 🤷🏼♀️ That would have been awesome, and it felt a little like a miss to me. #sorrynotsorry #alphaholesaremyjam
• The only *real* drama comes from family stuff on both sides... neither was developed as much as it could have been. I would have liked more drama just in general. I think it would have added to the emotion and angst.
• there was a little OW drama that naturally stemmed from the H's indiscriminate se%ual past, and of course, I really wish we'd gotten a bit more of that fleshed out. It was kinda glossed over and was easily and quickly resolved. That's no fun. 😕 I'm a #dramahoooaar
• the only real OM drama was imagined drama that was quickly explained... again, it would have been nice for the manhoooar to get a bit of his own medicine FOR REAL, rather than any interest other men showed the h being imaginary. *womp-womp*
• It may have been a bit *too* close to #nerd... I know that this is a classic trope, and I'm not *At All* accusing anyone of anything nefarious, but I couldn't help but feel like there were just enough noticeable similarities that this book came out lacking. I think that if they had gone a bit darker, and set this in their other series, this might have even been a 5 star read... but because I spent so much time comparing, it detracted rather than added to the my overall enjoyment.
• I was a little sad that we get an aggressively j/p athlete, but he doesn't actually want to play football. I love football and football players, so this was a disappointing story line
Bottom Line? Overall I liked this. I stayed up quite late to finish it.
3.75 ⭐️s - for a consistently j/p aggressive athlete H. ❤️
⚠️For the Safety Squad⚠️
• no cheating
• no sharing
• no dubcon/noncon
• a little OW drama - but nothing that causes real issues with the H and h
June 12, 2020
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
I just adore this series so much! I swear, each book is better than the last. I love how I am captivated by the characters each and every time. These authors have a way of pulling the reader into the story effortlessly. I really love their combined writing style. They mesh so well together. The narration is always smooth and inviting. While I did find some things fairly predictable, I did enjoy the plot of the story. These authors make you want to keep reading, that's for sure. I always fall so in love with the characters in their books and this was no exception. Blair and Cage were such great characters. They won me over easily. They are relatable and likable characters. I like that they weren't flawless. They had depth and great character growth. I also very much loved the secondary characters in this book and I hope to see more of them in future books. The romance in this book was one of those romances that is undeniable. Blair and Cage had an immediate connection that the reader could just feel. They had excellent banter and I love the way that they fell in love. I was rooting for them from the start. Overall, this was another fantastic college romance from this writing duo. Their stories always capture my attention and their characters always win over my heart. I can't wait for more from these two authors!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
I just adore this series so much! I swear, each book is better than the last. I love how I am captivated by the characters each and every time. These authors have a way of pulling the reader into the story effortlessly. I really love their combined writing style. They mesh so well together. The narration is always smooth and inviting. While I did find some things fairly predictable, I did enjoy the plot of the story. These authors make you want to keep reading, that's for sure. I always fall so in love with the characters in their books and this was no exception. Blair and Cage were such great characters. They won me over easily. They are relatable and likable characters. I like that they weren't flawless. They had depth and great character growth. I also very much loved the secondary characters in this book and I hope to see more of them in future books. The romance in this book was one of those romances that is undeniable. Blair and Cage had an immediate connection that the reader could just feel. They had excellent banter and I love the way that they fell in love. I was rooting for them from the start. Overall, this was another fantastic college romance from this writing duo. Their stories always capture my attention and their characters always win over my heart. I can't wait for more from these two authors!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
April 5, 2023
This was just boring tbh.
June 15, 2020
I read and ARC copy of this.
Overall I liked this book. I will admit that I didn't like Blair at first. She really came across as a bitch. However, as the book went along we got to see what her and Cage were really like. Both of them have difficult home lives. So, I was happy that in the end they both could find happiness with each other.
Overall I liked this book. I will admit that I didn't like Blair at first. She really came across as a bitch. However, as the book went along we got to see what her and Cage were really like. Both of them have difficult home lives. So, I was happy that in the end they both could find happiness with each other.
June 12, 2020
2.75 stars, i loved the beginning of this book especially blair dumping a drink on cage the first time they meet. there’s a lot of chemistry between them and the getting-to-know-eo phase was great but it honestly got boring after they officially got together. there were some character inconsistencies when it came to blair but cage was actually super sweet.
side note, what is up with this trend in na books of male characters giving up lifetime career opportunities to stick it to their parents? cage quits football which is apparently making him miserable even though he has NFL star level talent just because of his relationship with his dad who’s a football legend. like can we PLEASE come up with something else, please.
side note, what is up with this trend in na books of male characters giving up lifetime career opportunities to stick it to their parents? cage quits football which is apparently making him miserable even though he has NFL star level talent just because of his relationship with his dad who’s a football legend. like can we PLEASE come up with something else, please.
November 5, 2024
The nerd and the jock 🫶
This was a sweet story filled with ups and downs. The blend of bullying and heartfelt moments made it an entertaining read.
I’d rate it around 4.5-4.75 ⭐️‘s.
This was a sweet story filled with ups and downs. The blend of bullying and heartfelt moments made it an entertaining read.
I’d rate it around 4.5-4.75 ⭐️‘s.
June 6, 2020
THE JOCK: An Enemies to Lovers Romance
(North Woods University Book 6)
J.L.Beck & C.Hallman
Release 12th June
#arc #arcreader #amreading #currentlyreading #reader #reviewer #romance #college #enemiestolovers #jock🏈 #nerd🤓📚 #collegeromance #footballplayer #standalone #northwoodsuniversityseries #TheJock #TheNerd
Blair & Cage
POV:Dual
Blair and Cage meet at a frat party.
Blair's a 'nerd' book smarts, not social butterfly confident.
She needs to get out of her comfort zones. So when a friend tells her to meet her at a small gathering, when she gets there it turns out to be a full blown frat party, minus said friend.
When Cage aproaches her, she's reminded that he represents the men her Mother's been with before, gets what he wants and leaves you broken hearted. But it doesn't stop her from admiring his physique in the process, but he's not for her.
He ruffles her up the wrong way, resulting in her making a spectacle of themselves. Earning herself a nickname and making a joke out of Cage.
Let's say that Cage isn't pleased, and vows to make her pay.
Until his coach tells him that he needs help with his grades, and sets him up with a tutor.
Due to his Fathers love of the sport, Cage is now not loving it as much as he used to. But he promised his coach.
When he sees his tutor, he's speechless, yes you've guessed it, Blair is his tutor. And he's not amused, due to the fact that she made a joke out of him. She's less than thrilled realising who she's meant to tutor.
Until when a conversation turns into a bet between Cage and his friends about how he won't be able to get the 'ice queen' as they've dubbed Blair, to come over to Team Wilder and make her fall for him.
She's not like other girls that Cage is used to. He only wanted to poke fun out of her that night, but soon realises that he dug a bit too deep.
Now his battle's begun to get Blair to like him.
And make up for being a jackass.
Never being in the limelight, Blair's been the centre of gossip. She hears the whispers in the passing. She wants to be invisible again, like in high school, having her nose in a book, hiding in her room and avoiding drama.
Of course, there's the main bitchy 'it' girl, this one's called Amanda. Jealous of how Cage's attention has turned to Blair.
Blair's friends Jude and Mia are brilliant. Hoping we get to see more of Mia down the line, maybe she'll get a book next?!
How will they handle the hurdles in their way?
One way to find out is to read it 😁
*Arc received in exchange for an honest review*
(North Woods University Book 6)
J.L.Beck & C.Hallman
Release 12th June
#arc #arcreader #amreading #currentlyreading #reader #reviewer #romance #college #enemiestolovers #jock🏈 #nerd🤓📚 #collegeromance #footballplayer #standalone #northwoodsuniversityseries #TheJock #TheNerd
Blair & Cage
POV:Dual
Blair and Cage meet at a frat party.
Blair's a 'nerd' book smarts, not social butterfly confident.
She needs to get out of her comfort zones. So when a friend tells her to meet her at a small gathering, when she gets there it turns out to be a full blown frat party, minus said friend.
When Cage aproaches her, she's reminded that he represents the men her Mother's been with before, gets what he wants and leaves you broken hearted. But it doesn't stop her from admiring his physique in the process, but he's not for her.
He ruffles her up the wrong way, resulting in her making a spectacle of themselves. Earning herself a nickname and making a joke out of Cage.
Let's say that Cage isn't pleased, and vows to make her pay.
Until his coach tells him that he needs help with his grades, and sets him up with a tutor.
Due to his Fathers love of the sport, Cage is now not loving it as much as he used to. But he promised his coach.
When he sees his tutor, he's speechless, yes you've guessed it, Blair is his tutor. And he's not amused, due to the fact that she made a joke out of him. She's less than thrilled realising who she's meant to tutor.
Until when a conversation turns into a bet between Cage and his friends about how he won't be able to get the 'ice queen' as they've dubbed Blair, to come over to Team Wilder and make her fall for him.
She's not like other girls that Cage is used to. He only wanted to poke fun out of her that night, but soon realises that he dug a bit too deep.
Now his battle's begun to get Blair to like him.
And make up for being a jackass.
Never being in the limelight, Blair's been the centre of gossip. She hears the whispers in the passing. She wants to be invisible again, like in high school, having her nose in a book, hiding in her room and avoiding drama.
Of course, there's the main bitchy 'it' girl, this one's called Amanda. Jealous of how Cage's attention has turned to Blair.
Blair's friends Jude and Mia are brilliant. Hoping we get to see more of Mia down the line, maybe she'll get a book next?!
How will they handle the hurdles in their way?
One way to find out is to read it 😁
*Arc received in exchange for an honest review*
June 14, 2020
I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book.
Blair agreed to go a party with her friend, so when Cage approaches her and flirts she rejects him, she knows all about his reputation and she’s not going to be another notch on anyone’s bedpost, but she underestimates him in more ways than one and when she discovers he is the one she is meant to be tutoring will she be able to resist him. They learn things about one another and share secrets but when her roommate tells her he is just using her for a bet will she ever recover from her shattered heart?
Cage was humiliated the night that Blair poured a drink on him and bets that he will make the ice queen melt, he doesn’t know how but he will win the bet with his friends and the perfect opportunity comes when she is assigned as his tutor, but as time goes by and they learn about each other his feelings change and he wants this girl as his in the worst way. Once the truth comes out can she find it in her heart to forgive him or dies she really mean it when she says they are done?
Really loved this book and how these two characters came together, Blair is awesome as the nerdy virgin and he as the selfish Jock but they break down each other’s walls. Highly recommend this book. 4.5🌟
Blair agreed to go a party with her friend, so when Cage approaches her and flirts she rejects him, she knows all about his reputation and she’s not going to be another notch on anyone’s bedpost, but she underestimates him in more ways than one and when she discovers he is the one she is meant to be tutoring will she be able to resist him. They learn things about one another and share secrets but when her roommate tells her he is just using her for a bet will she ever recover from her shattered heart?
Cage was humiliated the night that Blair poured a drink on him and bets that he will make the ice queen melt, he doesn’t know how but he will win the bet with his friends and the perfect opportunity comes when she is assigned as his tutor, but as time goes by and they learn about each other his feelings change and he wants this girl as his in the worst way. Once the truth comes out can she find it in her heart to forgive him or dies she really mean it when she says they are done?
Really loved this book and how these two characters came together, Blair is awesome as the nerdy virgin and he as the selfish Jock but they break down each other’s walls. Highly recommend this book. 4.5🌟
June 10, 2020
This is the story of Blair and Cage and I think is one of my favorites from North Woods University series. This was a lighter read compared to the previous books and I really enjoyed it! Several of the previous characters make an appearance and I can't wait to read the next book!
June 13, 2020
This was a great NA read. Fantastic take on the nerdy virgin and the hot jock. I enjoyed the banter and the fact Blair had a backbone. This one had a little more depth than most of the current NA stories.
June 13, 2020
Blair is determined to not give into Cages charm given his reputation but she’s underestimating Cages determination. These two couldn’t be more opposite but it works perfectly for them. Blair was simply adorable and I enjoyed her, Cage was arrogant but I liked his slightly sweeter side when it came to Blair
March 20, 2021
2.5 - SPOILERS
Uhh, nothing special. Heroine sucked. I thought there would be more drama once heroine finds out Hero had a bet with his friends that he could get heroine to fall for him but nothing happens.. he apologizes and thats it LOL abit of drama would have been nice.
Ending sucked.. I thought heroine was a B(itch) breaking up with Hero because he has to go to a different college thats an hour away 🙄 yes, her reasoning was she hates that hes playing a sport he doesn’t like but really to end it over something so ridiculous yet not be mad about the bet?
Uhh, nothing special. Heroine sucked. I thought there would be more drama once heroine finds out Hero had a bet with his friends that he could get heroine to fall for him but nothing happens.. he apologizes and thats it LOL abit of drama would have been nice.
Ending sucked.. I thought heroine was a B(itch) breaking up with Hero because he has to go to a different college thats an hour away 🙄 yes, her reasoning was she hates that hes playing a sport he doesn’t like but really to end it over something so ridiculous yet not be mad about the bet?
June 13, 2020
Blair is convinced by a friend to go to a party and there she talks to Cage for the first time, he flirts with her, she rejects him, he calls her a nerdy virgin and she throws a beer over his head, making Cage’s friends make fun of him. Cage has get better grades if he wants to keep playing football so his coach gives him a tutor who is none other than Blair. Cage makes a bet with his friends, that he is capable of conquering the ice queen heart.
As they spend time together, their barriers begin to crumble. She confesses that she is afraid of ending up as her mother, depending of a man who uses her and discards her as he likes. And he confesses that he hates football, that he only plays to make his father happy. They both fall in love but Amanda, Blair’s roommate who bullies her at every opportunity she has, tells her that her love story with Cage is not real, that she is just a bet, that Cage will do the same thing she did with her, use her and discard her, which is Blair’s greatest fear.
The icing of the cake is put by Cage’s father when he tells him that he going to change schools since his relationship with Blair is distracting him from what is truly important: football.
“ I would never fall for you,” Blair protests. “Never say never, baby.” If she was smart, she’d run now because once this game really starts, I’ll show no mercy. “Never, Cage. Never. Ever. Will I fall for you!” We’ll see about that…
I have to remember the end game, that she was my tutor and that at the end of the day, I’m doing all of this to get between her legs. By the time I’m done with her, she’ll hate my guts. It’s the only way things could be. The only way this is going to end.
“I’m not saying that sex is a bad thing or that I never want to do it. It’s just, I want to find someone worth giving myself to. I don’t want to sleep with hundreds of guys.” Her words hit me like a semi-truck. Someone worth giving herself to…That is definitely not me. I don’t deserve that. I don’t deserve her. Guilt gnaws at my insides. I’ve never felt so guilty, so immoral, and vicious for what I did. I tried to take that part of her. Take something she treasures, and for what? A stupid bet. I’m a prick. I don’t even deserve her friendship, but I’m too selfish to let that go. Now that she’s in my web, I can’t release her. I have to keep her close.
“If you think for one second, the reason I don’t want to take you down there has to do with not wanting you, then you obviously haven’t been paying attention. I want you so bad, so fucking bad my balls ache to empty inside you, but this…” he pulls a hand away and gestures between us, “this is not what you need. I’m not what you need. I’m not going to cheapen your virginity with alcohol and a dark basement. If you had asked me any other time, I would probably take you up on your offer, but not right now. Plus, how can we stay friends if we’re screwing?”“I think… I want to go home now.”
“Blair, wait… I love… I love you.”“Love? You love me?” She gasps. I nod. “I love you, Blair. I fucked up, but we can fix this. I told you, I can’t lose you. I’ve shared things with you I’ve never shared with anyone. I’ve asked you to move in with me. I love you, and I can’t bear to lose you. You’re the only thing in this fucked up world that matters. You matter to me.”“I’m sorry, Cage, but I’m done. This is too much. You don’t even like football, and you agreed to leave!”“Blair, please…” “No! Leave me alone. I don’t want to see you anymore. I’m done. We’re done!”
As they spend time together, their barriers begin to crumble. She confesses that she is afraid of ending up as her mother, depending of a man who uses her and discards her as he likes. And he confesses that he hates football, that he only plays to make his father happy. They both fall in love but Amanda, Blair’s roommate who bullies her at every opportunity she has, tells her that her love story with Cage is not real, that she is just a bet, that Cage will do the same thing she did with her, use her and discard her, which is Blair’s greatest fear.
The icing of the cake is put by Cage’s father when he tells him that he going to change schools since his relationship with Blair is distracting him from what is truly important: football.
“ I would never fall for you,” Blair protests. “Never say never, baby.” If she was smart, she’d run now because once this game really starts, I’ll show no mercy. “Never, Cage. Never. Ever. Will I fall for you!” We’ll see about that…
I have to remember the end game, that she was my tutor and that at the end of the day, I’m doing all of this to get between her legs. By the time I’m done with her, she’ll hate my guts. It’s the only way things could be. The only way this is going to end.
“I’m not saying that sex is a bad thing or that I never want to do it. It’s just, I want to find someone worth giving myself to. I don’t want to sleep with hundreds of guys.” Her words hit me like a semi-truck. Someone worth giving herself to…That is definitely not me. I don’t deserve that. I don’t deserve her. Guilt gnaws at my insides. I’ve never felt so guilty, so immoral, and vicious for what I did. I tried to take that part of her. Take something she treasures, and for what? A stupid bet. I’m a prick. I don’t even deserve her friendship, but I’m too selfish to let that go. Now that she’s in my web, I can’t release her. I have to keep her close.
“If you think for one second, the reason I don’t want to take you down there has to do with not wanting you, then you obviously haven’t been paying attention. I want you so bad, so fucking bad my balls ache to empty inside you, but this…” he pulls a hand away and gestures between us, “this is not what you need. I’m not what you need. I’m not going to cheapen your virginity with alcohol and a dark basement. If you had asked me any other time, I would probably take you up on your offer, but not right now. Plus, how can we stay friends if we’re screwing?”“I think… I want to go home now.”
“Blair, wait… I love… I love you.”“Love? You love me?” She gasps. I nod. “I love you, Blair. I fucked up, but we can fix this. I told you, I can’t lose you. I’ve shared things with you I’ve never shared with anyone. I’ve asked you to move in with me. I love you, and I can’t bear to lose you. You’re the only thing in this fucked up world that matters. You matter to me.”“I’m sorry, Cage, but I’m done. This is too much. You don’t even like football, and you agreed to leave!”“Blair, please…” “No! Leave me alone. I don’t want to see you anymore. I’m done. We’re done!”
July 22, 2024
Such a wonderful read!
I loved this book from beginning to end. Cage is such a good guy. You know he's been through a lot but when he loves he loves with his whole heart. One I know I'll be reading again.
I loved this book from beginning to end. Cage is such a good guy. You know he's been through a lot but when he loves he loves with his whole heart. One I know I'll be reading again.
April 2, 2024
A badly written, weird paced, unrealistic college romance that has the exact same plot as 100 other books i’ve read.
I love ready college sports romance, even if it’s the same plot, if it had good writing and something a little quirky about it but this was just…eh.
I’ll give it a 2⭐️ because i liked the smut lol (even though it didn’t really make sense to me) and it made me tear up.
2/5⭐️
I love ready college sports romance, even if it’s the same plot, if it had good writing and something a little quirky about it but this was just…eh.
I’ll give it a 2⭐️ because i liked the smut lol (even though it didn’t really make sense to me) and it made me tear up.
2/5⭐️
August 29, 2020
1.5
Apparently I like to torture myself.
It was a little less than okay, I was going to DNF it, but idk, it seems like I never learn.
I didn't like Cage and Blair was x. Equis gente equis, lit.
The writing reminds me of a Wattpad story I would have loved back then... but not now.
(Btw, there are amazing and well-written stories on Wattpad. I have a few favs there.)
Anyways, o sea no me gustó, pero lo terminé. REALMENTE TENGO QUE APRENDER A DEJARLO A MEDIAS SI NO LO DISFRUTO, pero estoy con tan poco tiempo para leer que dejar uno a medias y empezar otro me have sentir mal, i mean... wasted time you know ajajajaj si? no? Bueno jiji
Two hours is all it took for her to get under my skin. Two fucking hours, a greasy burger, some fries and a shake, and that fucking smile of hers.
Apparently I like to torture myself.
It was a little less than okay, I was going to DNF it, but idk, it seems like I never learn.
I didn't like Cage and Blair was x. Equis gente equis, lit.
The writing reminds me of a Wattpad story I would have loved back then... but not now.
(Btw, there are amazing and well-written stories on Wattpad. I have a few favs there.)
Anyways, o sea no me gustó, pero lo terminé. REALMENTE TENGO QUE APRENDER A DEJARLO A MEDIAS SI NO LO DISFRUTO, pero estoy con tan poco tiempo para leer que dejar uno a medias y empezar otro me have sentir mal, i mean... wasted time you know ajajajaj si? no? Bueno jiji
Two hours is all it took for her to get under my skin. Two fucking hours, a greasy burger, some fries and a shake, and that fucking smile of hers.
January 19, 2022
Really enjoyed it!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
Really enjoyed this one! Always love me a good nerdy girl with jock story and this one didn't disappoint. Well written, fast paced, and hot smexy - couldn't ask for more!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: none
Really enjoyed this one! Always love me a good nerdy girl with jock story and this one didn't disappoint. Well written, fast paced, and hot smexy - couldn't ask for more!
August 8, 2024
Series Review
This series is so aggressively mid. And proof that if Teddy Hamilton narrates chances are I’ll listen.
This series is so aggressively mid. And proof that if Teddy Hamilton narrates chances are I’ll listen.
June 10, 2020
The moment he saw Blair she intrigued him, stirred something up inside him no other woman ever had, he wanted her plain and simple. He laid down some sure bet lines, turned on his charm, and she turned him down flat... and left him completely shell shocked! Nobody turns down Cage Wilder!
She's heard all the rumors, witnessed his flirting and attempts to impress the ladies, but she has never dealt with it first hand. Cage Wilder is the big man on campus, the man all the ladies want but can never manage to hold onto. Then one night he saunters onto her path, tries his fancy lines, and she musters all the courage she has and tells him she's not interested. There is no way she is going to become his next nameless conquest...
Between the pages of The Jock readers will meet a couple thrown together by coincidence, but it's their undeniable connection that holds them together. These two were about as opposite as two people could be, but their attraction was too strong to ignore. Blair isn't his usual type of girl, but that is why he liked her so much, she challenged him at every step and made him want to be a better man. She knew getting involved with him was dangerous for her heart, but promises were made and the kisses were everything... so she took a chance on the campus playboy. Which had me hoping and praying she made the right choice. These two were quite entertaining, from the very first page they had me captivated, and with each that followed the deeper I fell into their complicated world. They may have had an instant connection, but the rest didn't come so easily for them, there were a lot of obstacles and doubts in their way. I have to say this was another amazing addition to the North Woods University series, it had all the feels, all the steam, and all the drama I could have wanted... I loved every minute of it! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
She's heard all the rumors, witnessed his flirting and attempts to impress the ladies, but she has never dealt with it first hand. Cage Wilder is the big man on campus, the man all the ladies want but can never manage to hold onto. Then one night he saunters onto her path, tries his fancy lines, and she musters all the courage she has and tells him she's not interested. There is no way she is going to become his next nameless conquest...
Between the pages of The Jock readers will meet a couple thrown together by coincidence, but it's their undeniable connection that holds them together. These two were about as opposite as two people could be, but their attraction was too strong to ignore. Blair isn't his usual type of girl, but that is why he liked her so much, she challenged him at every step and made him want to be a better man. She knew getting involved with him was dangerous for her heart, but promises were made and the kisses were everything... so she took a chance on the campus playboy. Which had me hoping and praying she made the right choice. These two were quite entertaining, from the very first page they had me captivated, and with each that followed the deeper I fell into their complicated world. They may have had an instant connection, but the rest didn't come so easily for them, there were a lot of obstacles and doubts in their way. I have to say this was another amazing addition to the North Woods University series, it had all the feels, all the steam, and all the drama I could have wanted... I loved every minute of it! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
June 13, 2020
The Jock by J.L. Beck/C. Hallman is another enemies to lovers story in the Northwoods University Series. This story is filled with bullying, heartache, blackmail, family drama all leading to an emotional journey. What happens when Blair Jenkins a shy nerd is talked into going to a frat party who is out of her element, ends up throwing a drink over popular jock Cage Wilder when he comes on to her. Cage's ego is bruised when he was made to look like a fool in front of his friends, the only way he can remedy this situation is to make a bet that he will get the ice queen in his bed. Now these two will become embroiled in a change of events that will alter their lives forever. When he forces himself into her life Blair will soon discover that she wants more as the feelings Cage brings out in her is about to change her world forever. Cage begins to see a different side to Blair and now he finds he is developing feelings for her especially when Blair with her no nonsense attitude makes him feel unsettled and finds he wants to be more than a Jock as she is motivating him to change which is making him unsettled. But this emotional journey between them maybe in jeopardy as the bet Cage made with his friends is hanging over his head. Will he have the strength to confess to Blair or will someone with a vendetta get to her before he has a chance? Will he lose Blair forever? Will these two misunderstood people both trying to overcome a past have a chance at happiness? Once again these ladies have done an amazing job telling this romance story in this standalone series.
June 13, 2020
Blair needs to get out of her comfort zone. She is a nerd and doesn't have a life outside studying so her friends get her to come to a small party. But when she gets there its not a small party its a full frat party and the place is jumping. It takes a lot for Blair not to turn around and go home but she had promised. And this is where her nightmare begins. This is were she meets Cage and Blair wanted nothing to do with him. She had heard the rumours of him using the girls on campus for his own needs and nothing else. He was very handsome but Blair didnt want to get caught up and just be another name on his bed posts. Something happens and it angers Cage and he vows to make her life a living hell.
Cage had never met anyone like Blair and she kept his interest. But he had other things going on in his life. He is the star player on the football team but he is having a few problems with his studies and really needs to get his grades up. His coach finds him a tutor and who do you think it is? None other than Blair...
I really liked these two. They just seemed to bring out the best and worst of each other the banter is flying between them. It makes for an exciting read. You will go through every emotion. And you wont be able to put this book down. Blair and Cage's story is addictive. Its a brilliant read!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cage had never met anyone like Blair and she kept his interest. But he had other things going on in his life. He is the star player on the football team but he is having a few problems with his studies and really needs to get his grades up. His coach finds him a tutor and who do you think it is? None other than Blair...
I really liked these two. They just seemed to bring out the best and worst of each other the banter is flying between them. It makes for an exciting read. You will go through every emotion. And you wont be able to put this book down. Blair and Cage's story is addictive. Its a brilliant read!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2020
Oh, Blair and Cage, how you made my heart ache. This is one of those books that holds a simple truth at its heart and that truth makes it so easy to connect with readers. That simple truth is: we are all so much more than what you see at first glance. This was such a wonderful read. I loved truly getting to know these characters, witnessing them opening up to each other and growing in the process. Blair, I absolutely adored. She may have been a nerd but she was spunky and determined and I really loved that about her. Cage was full of himself and all his bluster was originally off-putting. However, once you started to get a "look behind the curtain" he became a lot more likable. They made a totally swoon worthy couple, that snuck right into my heart and had me actively rooting for them. Of course there are many challenges for these two to face along the way to a HEA. The book quickly grabs and hold your attention with its well crafted blend of drama, tension, emotion, painful baggage, desire, internal turmoil and a secret that is hanging over their heads just waiting to cause trouble. I am posting an independent, Impartial review.
June 7, 2020
The Jock brought me to my knees with the life changing power of pure, honest love. It held me by the throat as it showed me that vulnerability is not as bad as people say. In fact, it forces us to finally be honest with ourself and those around us. It brings to light the things in life that matter the most. The things that make life worth living and bring us the most happiness and joy as they soothe our heart and soul.
Blair is trying to live her life. It's a small but cherished life. She is fine with keeping to herself, but all that changes whenever Cage barges into it. He upends her world in more ways then one and leaves her breathless and wanting more. Cage didn't expect to find a girl who challenges and motivates him like Blair. She makes him want more and that leaves him terrified and unsettled. Can these two find a way to help the other open themselves to something new and so much better, or will their best laid plans die a short devastating death at their own hands?
I was shocked and yet dancing with joy as I revealed in the hard fought and brilliantly won journey of Blair and Cage. They left me in awe, and I will never forget their stunning hearts. I am awash in their blinding love that shattered all their walls and transformed their lives into something wholly transcendant.
Beck and Hallman have rocked my world with this fascinating beauty of a story. They have proven that they can do anything they put their minds to, and it will turn out perfect and heartwarming. Their creativity and talent knows no bounds. You can not hold these two goddesses back!!
Blair is trying to live her life. It's a small but cherished life. She is fine with keeping to herself, but all that changes whenever Cage barges into it. He upends her world in more ways then one and leaves her breathless and wanting more. Cage didn't expect to find a girl who challenges and motivates him like Blair. She makes him want more and that leaves him terrified and unsettled. Can these two find a way to help the other open themselves to something new and so much better, or will their best laid plans die a short devastating death at their own hands?
I was shocked and yet dancing with joy as I revealed in the hard fought and brilliantly won journey of Blair and Cage. They left me in awe, and I will never forget their stunning hearts. I am awash in their blinding love that shattered all their walls and transformed their lives into something wholly transcendant.
Beck and Hallman have rocked my world with this fascinating beauty of a story. They have proven that they can do anything they put their minds to, and it will turn out perfect and heartwarming. Their creativity and talent knows no bounds. You can not hold these two goddesses back!!
October 20, 2024
1.5 ⭐️
L M A O Girl… eeeevery stereotype trope is here but done in a bad and rushed way. The ONLY scene I thought was kinda funny, was the one where she snuck in the wrong room, it was ok and kinda predictable.
The characters are so dramatic and overreacting? Aaand also to mention the pacing, there’s really no tension and no like cute moments… or jealous, well there’s is scenes with jealousy but it’s just done so rushed and over the top that I couldn’t take it swipe is.
PFFT ALSO the way that Cage describes himself as a literal undefeated manwhore??? Girl what the heck… anyways I’ve read it now and it’s not it 😀
L M A O Girl… eeeevery stereotype trope is here but done in a bad and rushed way. The ONLY scene I thought was kinda funny, was the one where she snuck in the wrong room, it was ok and kinda predictable.
The characters are so dramatic and overreacting? Aaand also to mention the pacing, there’s really no tension and no like cute moments… or jealous, well there’s is scenes with jealousy but it’s just done so rushed and over the top that I couldn’t take it swipe is.
PFFT ALSO the way that Cage describes himself as a literal undefeated manwhore??? Girl what the heck… anyways I’ve read it now and it’s not it 😀
June 8, 2020
I absolutely loved the jock! Enemies to lovers are one of my fave genres so I absolutely devoured this one!
This story was gripping and totally relatable and that made me fall so much more in love with these characters!
This was definitely steamy and I loved the angst and a healthy dose of humor which i loved.
Lines get blurred and the jock falls and oh that was the best to watch.
This is now one of my faves in this series and I can’t get enough!
Definitely another 5 star read from JL and Cassy! And i highly recommend this!
This story was gripping and totally relatable and that made me fall so much more in love with these characters!
This was definitely steamy and I loved the angst and a healthy dose of humor which i loved.
Lines get blurred and the jock falls and oh that was the best to watch.
This is now one of my faves in this series and I can’t get enough!
Definitely another 5 star read from JL and Cassy! And i highly recommend this!
June 12, 2020
I really enjoy books that are written by this wonderful duo, they never fail to entertain me and hold me interest throughout. This book is about Blair and Cage and their journey from enemies to lovers. Both characters are well written and there is plenty of drama and emotion in this fantastically written plot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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