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Hawks #5
Blocked Shot
Leighton Presley is focused on one thing. Her career.
Her attention is solely on proving to everyone that she has what it takes to become an NBA referee, and nothing is going to stop her. Which is why she’s so surprised to see the one man she spent a week with in Vegas on the court.
Chandler Adams is ready to settle down. He wants the relationship, the home, the family. After a breakup he wasn’t expecting, he spends a week in Vegas and meets someone he can’t keep his mind off of. Which is why he’s stunned to see her on the side of the court.
After being photographed by the paparazzi, stories begin to form that could very easily ruin what the two have together. When the league finds out about their secret, it threatens to ruin them completely.
Can Chandler and Leighton defend what they have? Or will the Blocked Shot be called?
Her attention is solely on proving to everyone that she has what it takes to become an NBA referee, and nothing is going to stop her. Which is why she’s so surprised to see the one man she spent a week with in Vegas on the court.
Chandler Adams is ready to settle down. He wants the relationship, the home, the family. After a breakup he wasn’t expecting, he spends a week in Vegas and meets someone he can’t keep his mind off of. Which is why he’s stunned to see her on the side of the court.
After being photographed by the paparazzi, stories begin to form that could very easily ruin what the two have together. When the league finds out about their secret, it threatens to ruin them completely.
Can Chandler and Leighton defend what they have? Or will the Blocked Shot be called?
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2022
11 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
J. Akridge
18 books303 followersJ. Akridge is contemporary romance author that has a quirky sense of humor and enjoys sweet, sexy, feel-good romance. She likes her bun messy, her sweats comfy, and her coffee strong. She resides in Missouri with her husband and their three children where she is experiencing her own happily ever after with her high school sweetheart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 22, 2022
ARC REVIEW - BLOCKED SHOT
Chandler Adams has just been dumped by the girl he thought he loved, but a holiday in Vegas shows him how she was never the one for him. Vegas gives Chandler one more surprise, a holiday fling in the shape of Leighton Presley. Hotel Heiress and Referee-to-be. Leighton is solely focused on her career, but her friends insist she has some fun on this holiday.
Chandler and Leighton met again on the side of the court and the revelation shocks them both.
A ref and a basketball player? forbidden. But these two just can’t stay away from each other, the feelings and attraction are too much to deny. But when gossip articles, paparazzi and fights on the court threaten to ruin them completely, can they make it through?
♥️ Sports Romance
♥️ Forbidden
The way chandler and Leighton met was hilarious and their story was truly fated. BUT I did struggle with this book in the beginning, I think due to Chandlers ex being Chrissy, I love Chrissy and it was hard seeing Chandler fall for someone else.
The drama, angst and laughter made this a really entertaining read and I cannot wait for book 6 🤭
⭐️ 3.5/5
🥵 2/5
Chandler Adams has just been dumped by the girl he thought he loved, but a holiday in Vegas shows him how she was never the one for him. Vegas gives Chandler one more surprise, a holiday fling in the shape of Leighton Presley. Hotel Heiress and Referee-to-be. Leighton is solely focused on her career, but her friends insist she has some fun on this holiday.
Chandler and Leighton met again on the side of the court and the revelation shocks them both.
A ref and a basketball player? forbidden. But these two just can’t stay away from each other, the feelings and attraction are too much to deny. But when gossip articles, paparazzi and fights on the court threaten to ruin them completely, can they make it through?
♥️ Sports Romance
♥️ Forbidden
The way chandler and Leighton met was hilarious and their story was truly fated. BUT I did struggle with this book in the beginning, I think due to Chandlers ex being Chrissy, I love Chrissy and it was hard seeing Chandler fall for someone else.
The drama, angst and laughter made this a really entertaining read and I cannot wait for book 6 🤭
⭐️ 3.5/5
🥵 2/5
September 22, 2023
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed her writing. Her writing was flawless and the story was captivating. My favorite part of it was how she wrote the sex scenes to be hot and steamy but felt easy and not like she was trying too hard to make it hot. Chandler and Leighton’s story went from one night stand to forbidden romance. They developed a relationship in Vegas but neither thought it was going to go beyond their week together. To their surprise, Leighton saw Chandler again on the basketball court where she is a referee and he is a player. I loved their relationship, they had good chemistry and banter. Chandler was very supportive of Leighton’s job which was really sweet. I was a little bit disappointed in how the story ended but HOLY CRAP that epilogue blew my mind and now I for sure will be looking out for the next book!
September 4, 2022
I guess I'm thinking the high reviews are for the chemistry between the characters but a woman who is going to be an NBA referee would have to be in great physical shape and have lots of time spent absorbed into the NBA and the players. Not knowing Chandler Adams when he's a center ( usually the tallest player) either by him being in the league a few years and not asking him in Vegas what he does for a living.... because duh, he is super tall. I just thought it was not a good premise.
I just didn't get how she became a referee. Did she play college basketball?
I just didn't feel this way well thought out and between this likelihood and her annoying father, I gave up.
I just didn't get how she became a referee. Did she play college basketball?
I just didn't feel this way well thought out and between this likelihood and her annoying father, I gave up.
July 7, 2025
Very cute sports romance. I found the playing out of the sibling relationship after tragedy so real and raw. How a sister raising a younger brother sacrifices for his future is beautiful and sad at her loss of truly living. The love story is so sweet and heart wrenching through out. I really enjoyed it b3ing the woman with the baggage and the man being thoughtful and patient. There is a duplicate page, that just needs skipped past.
April 8, 2023
Method: ebook
Rating: 4/5 stars
H rating: 4/5 - Chandler
h rating: 4/5 - Leighton
Drama: 4/5
Thoughts: Good read, will add to review later!
August 31, 2022
Leighton goes to Vegas with a group of her girls friends as a last hurrah before starting her dream job as an NBA referee. While there she has the absolute best and most hilarious meet-cute with Chandler. They don’t exchange much else, so she has no clue he’s an NBA Star for the Hawks, and he has no clue he might just see her again curtsied.
Chandler takes time at the end of his offseason to blow some steam in Vegas after a bad breakup. All his teammates and friends are in relationships and he is feeling like he is missing out and ready for that in his life too, however when he meets Leighton he will take what he can get.
These two hit it off instantly, even though Leighton tried to deny it. They have fantastic chemistry and realize that it can maybe be more. The have quite a few bumps and challenges they have to face, but doesn’t every good relationship.
I adore Chandler. I think he has the best heart and comes from the best place, but lets be real he is a guy and doesn’t always realize his actions and the consequences they can cause. I am happy to find someone fit perfectly for him though. We have seen him with the other guys and having fun and in a failed relationship, now it’s his time for a HEA.
Chandler takes time at the end of his offseason to blow some steam in Vegas after a bad breakup. All his teammates and friends are in relationships and he is feeling like he is missing out and ready for that in his life too, however when he meets Leighton he will take what he can get.
These two hit it off instantly, even though Leighton tried to deny it. They have fantastic chemistry and realize that it can maybe be more. The have quite a few bumps and challenges they have to face, but doesn’t every good relationship.
I adore Chandler. I think he has the best heart and comes from the best place, but lets be real he is a guy and doesn’t always realize his actions and the consequences they can cause. I am happy to find someone fit perfectly for him though. We have seen him with the other guys and having fun and in a failed relationship, now it’s his time for a HEA.
September 2, 2022
You get introduced to Chrissy and Chandler as a couple in book #4 and get their breakup in this book. It’s ok though, there are bigger and better things planned for him.
Chandler goes to Vegas and meets Leighton, who is also trying to escape reality for a week. And oh what a week it is! If you are looking for a book where you don’t have to wait too long for the sexy times, this it! They have tremendous chemistry!!
This is a forbidden romance, but it takes you a while to learn why and I have to admit that it was a total surprise to me! I love when that happens.
And, while I know this is just a fictional romance, it really made me think about what I’d do if I had a trailblazing career that I’d worked so hard for and the man I was falling in love with was in conflict with that. I had a great conversation with my girls about this!
Leighton has a lot on her plate and eventually the weight of comes crashing down and makes for some fun and dramatic reading. I’m not going to lie, I kind of wished there was a more balanced solution to the conflict, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
This is another terrific book in the Hawks series and the epilogue has me wanting more already!
Chandler goes to Vegas and meets Leighton, who is also trying to escape reality for a week. And oh what a week it is! If you are looking for a book where you don’t have to wait too long for the sexy times, this it! They have tremendous chemistry!!
This is a forbidden romance, but it takes you a while to learn why and I have to admit that it was a total surprise to me! I love when that happens.
And, while I know this is just a fictional romance, it really made me think about what I’d do if I had a trailblazing career that I’d worked so hard for and the man I was falling in love with was in conflict with that. I had a great conversation with my girls about this!
Leighton has a lot on her plate and eventually the weight of comes crashing down and makes for some fun and dramatic reading. I’m not going to lie, I kind of wished there was a more balanced solution to the conflict, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
This is another terrific book in the Hawks series and the epilogue has me wanting more already!
October 1, 2022
Leighton and Chandler😍
I love these two as a couple, and I was totally caught off guard. I have been following this series, and it honestly keeps getting better and better with each book that is released.
A hotel heiress meets a basketball player. Yummy! Come on now! This couldn't be anything but fire. Chandler is ready to settle down and start a family, just like other team members. After a breakup, he decided to spend time in Vegas; however, what happened in Vegas did not stay in Vegas. It was taken to the basketball court!!!
I enjoyed the twist in this story. The secrets, the nondisclosure of personal details, the hidden relationship, and keeping everything on the down low. I just love this! It added so much excitement to the story.
I cannot express how much I enjoyed this book. I was so intrigued with Chandler and Leighton. This story is swoony, will give you butterfly feelings, make you giggle, and have you smiling from ear to ear while you read this book.
Highly recommend you read this book😍
I love these two as a couple, and I was totally caught off guard. I have been following this series, and it honestly keeps getting better and better with each book that is released.
A hotel heiress meets a basketball player. Yummy! Come on now! This couldn't be anything but fire. Chandler is ready to settle down and start a family, just like other team members. After a breakup, he decided to spend time in Vegas; however, what happened in Vegas did not stay in Vegas. It was taken to the basketball court!!!
I enjoyed the twist in this story. The secrets, the nondisclosure of personal details, the hidden relationship, and keeping everything on the down low. I just love this! It added so much excitement to the story.
I cannot express how much I enjoyed this book. I was so intrigued with Chandler and Leighton. This story is swoony, will give you butterfly feelings, make you giggle, and have you smiling from ear to ear while you read this book.
Highly recommend you read this book😍
September 2, 2022
Leighton and Chandler meet in Vegas - he is decompressing before his NBA season begins, she is on a girls trip. After a one week romance, they agree not to exchanges last names or numbers. So they are surprised to see each other on the basketball court, when she is a ref for one of his games. Leighton is in her first year as a ref and she knows the rules - no involvement with a player. But when they cannot stay apart, will she jeopardized the career she worked so hard for in order to be with Chandler?
I have read the other books in this series and liked them. This book works fine as a stand alone but I do recommend the other books. I think some people would not agree with the choice Leighton ultimately makes but I thought the author did a good job of showing how it was uniquely her choice, to one all people in the same situation would make.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I have read the other books in this series and liked them. This book works fine as a stand alone but I do recommend the other books. I think some people would not agree with the choice Leighton ultimately makes but I thought the author did a good job of showing how it was uniquely her choice, to one all people in the same situation would make.
I read an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 10, 2022
Leighton and Chandler's story will grab your attention right at the beginning when they meet in Vegas. Their chemistry was instant but it was only supposed to be a week of fun. He was in the dumps after being dumped and she was encouraged by her friends to sew a few oats for a change. What happens when they meet again and the sparks are still there but their relationship is forbidden because of no frat rules. She's a hotel heiress but works her dream job as a referee and he's a a NBA player. This is part of the Hawk Series by J. Akridge but can be read as a standalone. The book is well written and overflowing with drama and angst. What would you do if your dream career and the love of your life collide? What would you choose? Or is there a way to have both? No spoilers here and there is a teaser in the epilogue. A good book that I enjoyed. I read an advance reader copy via the author and voluntarily chose to review it.
August 10, 2022
Holy cow what an excellent read. J. Akridge has another hit on her hands in this series. Every new book brings a new couple i fall in love with. Chandler and Leighton's initial meeting and time together is hot! The way her friends support them spending time together during her girls trip is fun and hilarious.
The first time Chandler and Leighton come face to face after their initial time together is priceless. Really enjoyed that scene!! As these two try to figure out how to have a relationship while navigating his career, her dream job, her father and other forces makes for one heck on an entertaining read. This has the drama, angst, laughter and happy ending you've come to enjoy from this series.
The teaser for the next book in the epilogue, I'm looking forward to the next one in this series.
I received an ARC copy of this book.
The first time Chandler and Leighton come face to face after their initial time together is priceless. Really enjoyed that scene!! As these two try to figure out how to have a relationship while navigating his career, her dream job, her father and other forces makes for one heck on an entertaining read. This has the drama, angst, laughter and happy ending you've come to enjoy from this series.
The teaser for the next book in the epilogue, I'm looking forward to the next one in this series.
I received an ARC copy of this book.
October 26, 2022
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Note 2: Do read in order as previous characters do make cameos.
What a heart melting read! I loved it a lot too.
Sports romances are my heart and soul haha at the moment, so loving this one was no surprise.
And plus the cover be so damn smokin haha.
But seriously though - I loved the plotline - even if it seems to be a common one in sports romances. The writing was pretty damn smooth and fast, so no track losin here haha. The romance was damn cute, and the steam smokin tooo. Problem solving was done well, hats off, though sometimes the drama could be draggin. Relatability factor was 100 percent here, folks, no dry eyes in sight (well almost).
Overall loved this novel a lot, and can't wait for more.
Until the next read,
TMR
Note 2: Do read in order as previous characters do make cameos.
What a heart melting read! I loved it a lot too.
Sports romances are my heart and soul haha at the moment, so loving this one was no surprise.
And plus the cover be so damn smokin haha.
But seriously though - I loved the plotline - even if it seems to be a common one in sports romances. The writing was pretty damn smooth and fast, so no track losin here haha. The romance was damn cute, and the steam smokin tooo. Problem solving was done well, hats off, though sometimes the drama could be draggin. Relatability factor was 100 percent here, folks, no dry eyes in sight (well almost).
Overall loved this novel a lot, and can't wait for more.
Until the next read,
TMR
September 1, 2022
Blocked shot is book 5 of 6 the Hawk Series by J. Akridge.
Leighton is getting ready to start her dream job as an NBA referee so she and her friends hit Vegas!
Chandler is a NBA star on his off time he decided to hit Vegas after a painful breakup. He feels so secluded since everyone else seems to be in relationships.
They meet but both leave not knowing much about the other including the fact they will be crossing paths again soon! They both hit it off but played hard to get sort of.
I was so happy that Chandler got his HEA. I'm a sucker for the good guy that feels like he's alone while everyone else seems to be happy. This is another slam dunk book and I loved it! It releases today!
Leighton is getting ready to start her dream job as an NBA referee so she and her friends hit Vegas!
Chandler is a NBA star on his off time he decided to hit Vegas after a painful breakup. He feels so secluded since everyone else seems to be in relationships.
They meet but both leave not knowing much about the other including the fact they will be crossing paths again soon! They both hit it off but played hard to get sort of.
I was so happy that Chandler got his HEA. I'm a sucker for the good guy that feels like he's alone while everyone else seems to be happy. This is another slam dunk book and I loved it! It releases today!
September 1, 2022
What an amazing book. Chandler meets Leighton while he is in Vegas getting over his break up. They spend the week together and agree that it is just a fling because neither one has time for a relationship. Leighton is starting her dream job and Chandler season is starting. They are both shocked when they see each other because she funded out he is a famous basketball player and she is the new female referee everyone has been talking about. They start seeing each other when their schedules allow and they keep I a secret but will they be able to make this relationship work or will they have to break up? To find out all these answers read this book. You will not be disappointed!!
August 10, 2022
Everyone deserves a Chandler❤️❤️
“I’m about to f***ng ruin any other man that comes after me for you.”
Blocked shot is book 5 in the Hawks series.
Going in I had so many questions,
Like what happen to him and Chrissy?
If his interest would be someone we knew?
Over all this book was 🤩 Amazing. Got all my questions answered plus some. Now I’m sitting here patiently waiting for book Six and when I say J. Is going out with a bang with this she most definitely is.
This book still has its steamy moments, swoon moments, wyd moments ❤️❤️❤️ but does have a hea
“I’m about to f***ng ruin any other man that comes after me for you.”
Blocked shot is book 5 in the Hawks series.
Going in I had so many questions,
Like what happen to him and Chrissy?
If his interest would be someone we knew?
Over all this book was 🤩 Amazing. Got all my questions answered plus some. Now I’m sitting here patiently waiting for book Six and when I say J. Is going out with a bang with this she most definitely is.
This book still has its steamy moments, swoon moments, wyd moments ❤️❤️❤️ but does have a hea
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2022
I love reading about the Hawks players and their obsession with their ladies. This is no exception! Chandler is absolutely smitten with Leighton, and it was exciting to read how much he wanted a future with her. And Leighton is a great female main character who knows what she wants and goes after it. So many things I want to mention, but it would give away spoilers! Suffice it to say, this book has spice, trials and tribulations, and a tribe of besties for both characters who prove they have their friend's back! Loved this book! And the epilogue left a definite "WTF" surprise!
September 1, 2022
Wow! This was another great book by J. Akridge!!! Blocked Shot is book five in the Hawks Series and it's Now my favorite!!
I really loved Chandler and Leighton's romance. Everything flowed smoothly even with the complications they had to overcome. I loved how when they first met there was this connection that only grew the more time they spent together. They got to know one another. Their interactions and chemistry was just amazing! And I loved the Steamy scenes too! I cried, laughed during this book. I truly loved it. I can't wait until the last book!
I definitely recommend this!!
I really loved Chandler and Leighton's romance. Everything flowed smoothly even with the complications they had to overcome. I loved how when they first met there was this connection that only grew the more time they spent together. They got to know one another. Their interactions and chemistry was just amazing! And I loved the Steamy scenes too! I cried, laughed during this book. I truly loved it. I can't wait until the last book!
I definitely recommend this!!
September 2, 2022
Blocked Shot was such an outstanding read! I couldn’t put it down! Chandler gets his own adventure in book 5 of the Hawk Series! Chandler is a whole new man in his book. He is ready to settle down and he wants more from life then just a random hookup. We meet Leighton, she is smart, sassy and beautiful…..hard working and determined to break the barriers set by the “it’s a man’s job”. I loved the chemistry these two have. There is laughter, tears and a while lot of swooning! This is one of my favorite series and goodness it did not disappoint one bit! I can’t wait until the next book!
August 8, 2022
Hello swoon!!! Chandler and Leighton are phenomenal. Her friends are hilarious. This book had some suspense and some heartbreak, but I sure did LOVE it!! I adore these characters and all their children!! Such an amazing series!! I can’t wait for me!!! And the epilogue OMG!!!! I have never felt so connected to two characters as much as I do Chandler and Leighton. From the banter to their personalities!! They were truly fated!!
September 14, 2023
The story of Chandler and Leighton is definitely a forbidden romance! As one of a few female referees in the NBA, Leighton feels the pressure both professionally to succeed and personally to prove herself to family. Her character is strong and determined but her struggle between her heart and her head during the relationship brings conflict to the story. Between the steamy scenes in the book and the push and pull of the relationship the book is a great read if you like sports romances!
October 10, 2022
This book is my favorite so far!! I loved each one but this one…LOVE! Chandler is dumped and heads to the one place you go to forget everything. Vegas. He bumps into Leighton and in the pool decided she was just what he need to get over his ex. Never expecting to see each other again. Fate had other plans. When their paths cross again, they can’t keep their hands off each other.
Highly recommend this book! Can’t wait for the next book.
Highly recommend this book! Can’t wait for the next book.
September 2, 2022
When Leighton lands a rare job as a female refree, she is determined to show she can do it. Chandler a NBA player meets Leighton but doesn’t know she is a ref until they come face to face on the court. Imagine that, but things get sticky. Really good of not only the life of a pro athletic but a female in a predominantly male career filed. Good read. I received this copy and my honest review is voluntary
August 9, 2022
I really enjoyed Chandler and Leighton’s story. They were fun and sexy and their chemistry was off the charts! I loved how they took time to get to know each other while dealing with the complications of their relationship. Although there were definitely ups and downs I enjoyed that this was low angst and full of sweet and emotional moments all the way until the end.
September 4, 2022
WTH… that ending?!?! Holy cow I need Come Back: The Hawks Series, book 6 like NOW!! Anyway…
I’ve loved Chandler since first meeting him and was super excited to get his book. I wasn’t expecting all this and then some, but dayum it was SO worth it!! I absolutely love this couple and series. I’m actually sad that this series is coming to an end soon. 🖤🔥🏀🔥🖤
I’ve loved Chandler since first meeting him and was super excited to get his book. I wasn’t expecting all this and then some, but dayum it was SO worth it!! I absolutely love this couple and series. I’m actually sad that this series is coming to an end soon. 🖤🔥🏀🔥🖤
October 5, 2022
What an epic story. J. Akridge has done it again. I loved everything about this book. From the very beginning your pulled into the story of Chandler and Leighton. Thought out the story you are apart of their journey. You experience all of their up's and downs. All the highs and lows. Believe me you don't want to miss out on this story.
November 9, 2022
This is the fifth book in this incredible series, and this is Leighton and Chandler’s story. This is a well written story with instant chemistry, fun, heartbreak, secrets, intrigue, emotions, twist, challenges, friendships, and love, which leads to an entertaining and compelling page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
September 2, 2022
Chandler and Leighton's story is definitely my favourite. I loved their characters, storyline, chemistry, attraction, and everything about their story. It was well-written, the story and its characters, especially Leighton. I couldn't put the book down. Absolutely amazing!
September 3, 2022
Chandler and Leighton had one week of fun in Vegas together, never thinking that they would run into each other ever again. But fate had other plans. A great stoy between these two. Loved every word!!!
August 17, 2022
Omg I need a Chandler in my life ,he is so just everything ,the relationship is off the charts sexy and dreamy ,defo one for all to read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews