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Off the Mark
Fake dating my hottest friend was not my smartest move…
The cocky ex-baseball player—and flirty playboy—is the one man I’d never fall for. Which is why I stupidly thought he’d make the perfect fake boyfriend.
As the reigning queen of the dirt bike racing circuit, my only goal is to win this next championship race. Except I’ve got a bit of a…reputation problem. While my fans love my tattooed, bad girl image, my fancy new sponsor hates it. And after a recent media fiasco, I’m on the brink of losing everything just when my family needs my help the most.
So I asked Rowan O’Callaghan to fake date me to rehab my image for the cameras.
We’ve known each other since I was just his favorite bartender and he was the charming baseball god who swaggered into my bar to seduce every woman in sight. And left a trail of broken hearts in his wake.
Not me, though. I always knew better than to be tempted by his wicked grin and massive shoulders. Until now—when I suddenly have the huge, hunky flirt pretending to worship the very ground I walk on. Every fake kiss, every filthy promise he whispers in my ear, is starting to feel real.
But it turns out that falling for my fake boyfriend is my biggest mistake yet.
The cocky ex-baseball player—and flirty playboy—is the one man I’d never fall for. Which is why I stupidly thought he’d make the perfect fake boyfriend.
As the reigning queen of the dirt bike racing circuit, my only goal is to win this next championship race. Except I’ve got a bit of a…reputation problem. While my fans love my tattooed, bad girl image, my fancy new sponsor hates it. And after a recent media fiasco, I’m on the brink of losing everything just when my family needs my help the most.
So I asked Rowan O’Callaghan to fake date me to rehab my image for the cameras.
We’ve known each other since I was just his favorite bartender and he was the charming baseball god who swaggered into my bar to seduce every woman in sight. And left a trail of broken hearts in his wake.
Not me, though. I always knew better than to be tempted by his wicked grin and massive shoulders. Until now—when I suddenly have the huge, hunky flirt pretending to worship the very ground I walk on. Every fake kiss, every filthy promise he whispers in my ear, is starting to feel real.
But it turns out that falling for my fake boyfriend is my biggest mistake yet.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2022
556 people are currently reading
843 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Nolan
21 books1,568 followersKathryn Nolan (she/they) is an Amazon Top 25 bestselling author. Her steamy romance novels are known for their slow-burn sexual tension, memorable characters, and big, hopeful feelings.
Kathryn is a bisexual bookworm and femme cutie with big Leo energy. They love to spend their free time hiking, camping and traveling. When not on the road, they live in their hometown of Philly with their cute husband and giant-eared rescue pup, Walter.
Sign up for Kathryn’s weekly newsletter to see what she’s writing, what she’s reading/watching and get all her travel stories (plus an abundance of Walter photos!).
Newsletter link: https://www.authorkathrynnolan.com/jo...
Kathryn is a bisexual bookworm and femme cutie with big Leo energy. They love to spend their free time hiking, camping and traveling. When not on the road, they live in their hometown of Philly with their cute husband and giant-eared rescue pup, Walter.
Sign up for Kathryn’s weekly newsletter to see what she’s writing, what she’s reading/watching and get all her travel stories (plus an abundance of Walter photos!).
Newsletter link: https://www.authorkathrynnolan.com/jo...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
November 4, 2022
Off The Mark is a beautiful friends-to-lovers, fake relationship story full of sexy banter and finding your soul mate.
Rowan O’Callaghan is sexy, kind, and adorable. The way he takes care of those he loves, from his grandma and friends to his community, is swoonworthy. After a devastating shoulder injury kills his baseball career, he finds purpose working at his community rec center. I love his carefree attitude and humor, along with his big heart.
Charlie Maddox is an amazing woman hiding her vulnerability under her badass exterior. She's been taking care of herself, and her father, since she was too young to do so. Charlie comes from a small gossipy town where everyone looks out for themselves. She doesn't let people in because then she won't be disappointed. Charlie is a professional motocross racer and she even does that mostly alone.
They both have always chosen people who were safe to date and they weren't afraid to lose. Unfortunately, they have both lost people in their past so it totally makes sense. Goodness I love Rowan and Charlie! Their banter is epic and the times they open up to one another, beautiful! They have been friends for a long time and have always been there for each other. I absolutely love their history! These two are too adorable! I love when they're open and vulnerable with one another. They both have such big hearts! Seeing them fall in love had me smiling and wanting to go back a reread their story! And Rowan's neighborhood! Perfection! I loved being back in south Philly. The way they welcome Charlie with open arms is so sweet! Especially Rowan's grandma and Tabitha. Gah! Everything about this book is excellent!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Rowan O’Callaghan is sexy, kind, and adorable. The way he takes care of those he loves, from his grandma and friends to his community, is swoonworthy. After a devastating shoulder injury kills his baseball career, he finds purpose working at his community rec center. I love his carefree attitude and humor, along with his big heart.
Charlie Maddox is an amazing woman hiding her vulnerability under her badass exterior. She's been taking care of herself, and her father, since she was too young to do so. Charlie comes from a small gossipy town where everyone looks out for themselves. She doesn't let people in because then she won't be disappointed. Charlie is a professional motocross racer and she even does that mostly alone.
They both have always chosen people who were safe to date and they weren't afraid to lose. Unfortunately, they have both lost people in their past so it totally makes sense. Goodness I love Rowan and Charlie! Their banter is epic and the times they open up to one another, beautiful! They have been friends for a long time and have always been there for each other. I absolutely love their history! These two are too adorable! I love when they're open and vulnerable with one another. They both have such big hearts! Seeing them fall in love had me smiling and wanting to go back a reread their story! And Rowan's neighborhood! Perfection! I loved being back in south Philly. The way they welcome Charlie with open arms is so sweet! Especially Rowan's grandma and Tabitha. Gah! Everything about this book is excellent!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
November 2, 2022
Kathryn Nolan’s books are legitimately my favorite. Whenever someone needs a recommendation, she’s it. Her books are sexy and swoony and steamy…Lordy are they steamy in the best possible way!
Off The Mark ticked everyone of my boxes and it was fucking incredible! It was like coming home to visit old friends and it tugged on my heart strings immediately. There’s so much heart and love in this book…not just between the ever-stubborn Charlie and sweet-talking Rowan, but between friends and family and neighbors, that you’re sad you don’t have your own stoop to sit on and shoot the shit.
From the very first page, I was invested in every single character and wanting the absolute best for them. I loved getting to see Dean and Tabitha again, and this book had me laughing, swooning and even a few tears because it was so perfect!
I loved so many things about this book...The bar scene. The tree scene. Pam and Tiffany. The cheek kiss (SWOON). Glitter signs and ring pops.
You ABSOLUTELY have to pick up this book! It's so full of joy and happiness that I can't quit smiling :)
Off The Mark ticked everyone of my boxes and it was fucking incredible! It was like coming home to visit old friends and it tugged on my heart strings immediately. There’s so much heart and love in this book…not just between the ever-stubborn Charlie and sweet-talking Rowan, but between friends and family and neighbors, that you’re sad you don’t have your own stoop to sit on and shoot the shit.
From the very first page, I was invested in every single character and wanting the absolute best for them. I loved getting to see Dean and Tabitha again, and this book had me laughing, swooning and even a few tears because it was so perfect!
I loved so many things about this book...The bar scene. The tree scene. Pam and Tiffany. The cheek kiss (SWOON). Glitter signs and ring pops.
You ABSOLUTELY have to pick up this book! It's so full of joy and happiness that I can't quit smiling :)
November 10, 2022
4.5⭐️
A fun, hot romance that will make you smile. The trope is twofold, fake dating and friends to lovers. This was a very smexy romance and these two were adorable together. I loved Rowan and how he fell for Charlie. This story spoke to me in so many ways. I really enjoyed all of the characters and the HEA. Charlie was strong, determination and honest.
What I loved:
• Chemistry
• Motor cross
• Friendships
• Hand kissing
• Intimacy
• HEA
I highly recommend this because it was good.
Thanks Rick and thank you Kathryn Nolan for writing it❣️
A fun, hot romance that will make you smile. The trope is twofold, fake dating and friends to lovers. This was a very smexy romance and these two were adorable together. I loved Rowan and how he fell for Charlie. This story spoke to me in so many ways. I really enjoyed all of the characters and the HEA. Charlie was strong, determination and honest.
What I loved:
• Chemistry
• Motor cross
• Friendships
• Hand kissing
• Intimacy
• HEA
I highly recommend this because it was good.
Thanks Rick and thank you Kathryn Nolan for writing it❣️
November 12, 2022
This is a standalone that shares characters with “On the Ropes” and ends with a HEA. This hero, Rowan, is first introduced in that book as are many of the neighborhood characters that reappear in this book. Readers may find the most enjoyable experience to read “On the Ropes” before reading “Off the Mark”. This book is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
Rowan is a ginger hunk of burning love. He has never had a real relationship, but he has loved the women and they have loved him. I adore that he is a former athlete and still built like one. I love that he is a ginger. He has the biggest, softest heart under his playboy exterior. It is more than obvious in his interactions with his grandmother and with Dean and Tabitha as well as other neighbors. Charlie is fierce. A pro-motocross racer, she is at the top of her game professionally. She has been known as the bad girl of MotoX. She is tattooed and pierced with a fun sense of style a give no F’s attitude. I LOVED her character. Underneath her tough girl exterior is a woman who is steal dealing with baggage caused by family events of her childhood. Her fear of vulnerability is real and understandable.
I absolutely loved the banter and the friendship Charlie and Rowan share. They joke, and eventually open up to one another. I adore how they support each other’s dreams and goals. Meanwhile, the heat between them as they pretend to be a couple is palpable. This author is the master of slow burn. It takes quite a while before they even kiss, but that makes the book no less steamy. And when they do decide to make the relationship real? Whew! Get your fan. Smoking hot! Thankfully, their black moment is relatively low angst. They both have professional growth and change going on over the course of their relationship and that impacts their focus on each other. Rowan in love is something read, and I promise it will make you swoon. Philly is a character in these books on its own. I felt like I was right there in the South Philly neighborhood. I could almost smell the dinners being cooked, hear the kids playing, and feel the heat and humidity of the summer evening. The found family dynamic of the neighborhood is something truly special.
This was a romantic and steamy read that I didn’t want to set down. But this author always brings so much more to the table in her books than just a love story. She tackles bias and misogyny in the treatment of female athletes in a sport traditionally dominated by men. She addresses poverty, bigotry, and discrimination. Her background in the non-profit sector is apparent, as is her passion for non-profit projects that benefit the community. The function of the community rec center and the programs it provides to the South Philly neighborhood is an important part of this story. Because it is an important part of the book, it shines a light on community needs not just in the inner city but everywhere. It inspires me to look around me and ask what I can do to help my town. I can always count on this author to give me a story filled with inclusivity, love of all kinds, and strong family and friend connections. Her writing is always elegant, and her characters are deep and well-developed. This was a joy to read and worth so much more than 5 stars.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
Rowan is a ginger hunk of burning love. He has never had a real relationship, but he has loved the women and they have loved him. I adore that he is a former athlete and still built like one. I love that he is a ginger. He has the biggest, softest heart under his playboy exterior. It is more than obvious in his interactions with his grandmother and with Dean and Tabitha as well as other neighbors. Charlie is fierce. A pro-motocross racer, she is at the top of her game professionally. She has been known as the bad girl of MotoX. She is tattooed and pierced with a fun sense of style a give no F’s attitude. I LOVED her character. Underneath her tough girl exterior is a woman who is steal dealing with baggage caused by family events of her childhood. Her fear of vulnerability is real and understandable.
I absolutely loved the banter and the friendship Charlie and Rowan share. They joke, and eventually open up to one another. I adore how they support each other’s dreams and goals. Meanwhile, the heat between them as they pretend to be a couple is palpable. This author is the master of slow burn. It takes quite a while before they even kiss, but that makes the book no less steamy. And when they do decide to make the relationship real? Whew! Get your fan. Smoking hot! Thankfully, their black moment is relatively low angst. They both have professional growth and change going on over the course of their relationship and that impacts their focus on each other. Rowan in love is something read, and I promise it will make you swoon. Philly is a character in these books on its own. I felt like I was right there in the South Philly neighborhood. I could almost smell the dinners being cooked, hear the kids playing, and feel the heat and humidity of the summer evening. The found family dynamic of the neighborhood is something truly special.
This was a romantic and steamy read that I didn’t want to set down. But this author always brings so much more to the table in her books than just a love story. She tackles bias and misogyny in the treatment of female athletes in a sport traditionally dominated by men. She addresses poverty, bigotry, and discrimination. Her background in the non-profit sector is apparent, as is her passion for non-profit projects that benefit the community. The function of the community rec center and the programs it provides to the South Philly neighborhood is an important part of this story. Because it is an important part of the book, it shines a light on community needs not just in the inner city but everywhere. It inspires me to look around me and ask what I can do to help my town. I can always count on this author to give me a story filled with inclusivity, love of all kinds, and strong family and friend connections. Her writing is always elegant, and her characters are deep and well-developed. This was a joy to read and worth so much more than 5 stars.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
November 7, 2022
I wanted Rowan’s story the second he came on the page in On The Ropes, and it was everything I wanted it to be and more. This story is everything amazing about a Kathryn Nolan book. The love of community, the sexy times that are equal parts emotional and filthy, and a couple whose “fraught pining” steams up your kindle and sets it on fire. The sweetest of cinnamon rolls, I hung on Rowan’s every word and loved soft hearted bad girl of motocross Charlie. They had combustible chemistry in spades but swooned my heart out at how they took care of each other for years without even knowing they were doing it. I laughed and teared up in the same parts. One of my favorites of 2022 for sure. 5+ stars ⭐️
November 11, 2022
Love everything about this book!
At the heart of every story this author pens are characters you will meet and fall in love with, these characters are good people.
Yes, they’ve made some mistakes, yes, they can be fierce-looking at you Charlie, but oh what “cinnamon buns in a pan” Charlie and Rowan are!
Rowan is a dream guy, he’s kind of a player and admits he’s never really had a relationship per say, so when Charlie walks her bada$$ self back into his life, it’s very much a kindergarten classroom sharing rug situation for Rowan. He’s a pretty fast learner though 😉, because he has it BAD for Charlie.
Now Charlie, come on…I 100% have a crush on her..she’s a pro dirt bike rider! How could you not!? She’s a cinnamon bun in the pan with Rowan and while she’s really a bada$$, she’s actually a really soft person inside and Rowan brings that out in her.
I love their story and the added bonus here is Philadelphia, and a little neighborhood in South Philly that is a character all on it’s own. These people care about one another and I love it. I’m from the Philly burbs, so I hear “go birds” and it’s a really cool thing about this book! While Philadelphia and it’s surrounding burbs get a bad rap at times, people will give you the shirt off their backs, they may cuss you out while doing so, but they’ll still give you their shirt!
All my love to this author and her great writing skills, because this is another hit out of the ballpark for me!
Also: Rown is a ginger. ‘Nuff said.
At the heart of every story this author pens are characters you will meet and fall in love with, these characters are good people.
Yes, they’ve made some mistakes, yes, they can be fierce-looking at you Charlie, but oh what “cinnamon buns in a pan” Charlie and Rowan are!
Rowan is a dream guy, he’s kind of a player and admits he’s never really had a relationship per say, so when Charlie walks her bada$$ self back into his life, it’s very much a kindergarten classroom sharing rug situation for Rowan. He’s a pretty fast learner though 😉, because he has it BAD for Charlie.
Now Charlie, come on…I 100% have a crush on her..she’s a pro dirt bike rider! How could you not!? She’s a cinnamon bun in the pan with Rowan and while she’s really a bada$$, she’s actually a really soft person inside and Rowan brings that out in her.
I love their story and the added bonus here is Philadelphia, and a little neighborhood in South Philly that is a character all on it’s own. These people care about one another and I love it. I’m from the Philly burbs, so I hear “go birds” and it’s a really cool thing about this book! While Philadelphia and it’s surrounding burbs get a bad rap at times, people will give you the shirt off their backs, they may cuss you out while doing so, but they’ll still give you their shirt!
All my love to this author and her great writing skills, because this is another hit out of the ballpark for me!
Also: Rown is a ginger. ‘Nuff said.
November 7, 2022
Off the Mark by Kathryn Nolan is a contemporary fake-relationship friends-to-lovers sports romance told in first person, dual POV. It follows the relationship between motocross racer Charlie Maddox and her friend Rowan O’ Callaghan, a retired major league pitcher who works as the program coordinator of the South Philly Rec Center.
Charlie’s sponsors aren’t happy about some bad press she’s received, and she needs to clean up her image. Since she knows how much the public loves romance, Charlie makes up a boyfriend and tells her agent all about him. Now all she needs to do is ask Rowan to play along. But a few years have passed since they last talked. What a pickle!
I loved Charlie and Rowan’s story! As characters, they were both well developed and relatable. After meeting Rowan in On the Ropes, I was looking forward to getting to know him better. Off the Mark did not disappoint. Rowan was sexy, kind hearted, fun loving, and totally swoon worthy. Charlie had a tough exterior with a sweet vulnerability underneath.
Together, Rowan and Charlie were an adorably perfect match. I loved their chemistry and witty banter. It was also fun to revisit Dean and Tabitha, along with the rest of the neighbors and community that were introduced in On the Ropes. Off the Mark was emotional, steamy, and super sweet, delivering all those warm fuzzy feelings. Highly recommended for anybody who enjoys a feel good romance.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
Charlie’s sponsors aren’t happy about some bad press she’s received, and she needs to clean up her image. Since she knows how much the public loves romance, Charlie makes up a boyfriend and tells her agent all about him. Now all she needs to do is ask Rowan to play along. But a few years have passed since they last talked. What a pickle!
I loved Charlie and Rowan’s story! As characters, they were both well developed and relatable. After meeting Rowan in On the Ropes, I was looking forward to getting to know him better. Off the Mark did not disappoint. Rowan was sexy, kind hearted, fun loving, and totally swoon worthy. Charlie had a tough exterior with a sweet vulnerability underneath.
Together, Rowan and Charlie were an adorably perfect match. I loved their chemistry and witty banter. It was also fun to revisit Dean and Tabitha, along with the rest of the neighbors and community that were introduced in On the Ropes. Off the Mark was emotional, steamy, and super sweet, delivering all those warm fuzzy feelings. Highly recommended for anybody who enjoys a feel good romance.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***
November 12, 2022
4 ish stars. Fake dating is probably one of the most popular romance tropes, so I can see so many people loving this. Throw in a badass heroine who rides dirt bikes for a living and I’m sold. This was more slow burn than Nolan’s other books, so at first I thought it wouldn’t be as steamy. I was def wrong about that. She def had all the requisite steamy scenes, they were just heavily featured in the second half of the book. It took me a minute to jive with Rowan, the male lead. He didn’t do anything so terrible (I won’t say what bugged me bc I don’t want to give spoilers), but I didn’t love him in the beginning. I did, eventually, appreciate him and he turned out to be a great opposite to Charlie. What is there to say about Charlie, other than I loved her. She was such a badass!!! I love that a lot of Nolan’s books feature a sense of community as well as secondary characters that identify as lgbtq+, so those aspects of Off the Mark were also appreciated. It’s also worth noting that this features characters from On the Ropes, which I haven’t read, but had no problem following along with this one. If you like fake dating friends to lovers romances, give this one a try. It’s also available on kindle unlimited, which is a nice bonus.
Thank you to Kathryn and Rick from That’s what she said publishing for the arc. This is my honest review.
Thank you to Kathryn and Rick from That’s what she said publishing for the arc. This is my honest review.
November 6, 2022
AAAAhhhhh! She just keeps getting better folks! I swear with every book this author has me falling just a bit harder than the last one. Rowan and Charlie were SO great! Their vulnerability and longing, yet both with what they each think they have, strong sense of self. Both had moments where they realized just how much burden they were carrying unnecessarily. I loved it when clarity struck, so relatable to so many important life events when you get slapped in the face with the recognition that from this point on, nothing will ever be the same. I was insanely jealous of their friendship even before it was ever anything else, just beautiful foundation. I also fell in love with Alice lol. I was moved to the point of tears at the race. Charlie's relationship with her Dad made me miss mine out of the blue, and Alice reminded me of my Gram, so they've both been gone more than 20+ years, some things just strike the right point on the match and my memories spark to life like fire. What an incredibly well rounded book, I loved it and would recommend it even if there wasn't a Jolene's in it! (Lol I think its my favorite surprise finding my name in a book, which isn't all that often but I read SO much I've seen it a bit. They didn't mention a Jolene, but that bar sounded like a good time!)
November 22, 2022
(4.7Stars)
Charlie Maddox has a bit of a reputation to clean up with her motocross sponsors so when she asks Rowan O’Callaghan to pretend to date her in order to fix her “persona” she forgot how much she liked him! Can this bad girl and player find a way to fake date or will these friends really fall for each other? I loved seeing a strong heroine that matched the hero. Such a sweet story and family feel with all the side characters. This a feel good, slow burn romance that will have you smiling ear to ear. Rowan is just so yummy! Told in dual POV
Charlie Maddox has a bit of a reputation to clean up with her motocross sponsors so when she asks Rowan O’Callaghan to pretend to date her in order to fix her “persona” she forgot how much she liked him! Can this bad girl and player find a way to fake date or will these friends really fall for each other? I loved seeing a strong heroine that matched the hero. Such a sweet story and family feel with all the side characters. This a feel good, slow burn romance that will have you smiling ear to ear. Rowan is just so yummy! Told in dual POV
November 11, 2022
"This type of pleasure felt like freedom. This type of craving felt like seeing and being seen."
What You'll Find:
✔️MF Sports Romance
✔️Heroine Who Races Dirt Bikes
✔️Hero An Ex Pro Pitcher
✔️Friends to Lovers
✔️Fake Dating
✔️Mutual Pining
✔️Slow Burn to Sizzle
✔️Diversity/LGTBQ+ Rep
✔️Dual POV
Well, this was such a joy to read! A heartfelt romance with a community spirit that will make you laugh, all while pulling at your heartstrings. Two MC's full of flirty wit and banter. A slow burn with pining, that leads to some serious sizzle! And many tender, intimate moments too, that will warm your heart. I so enjoyed coming back to South Philly and this great cast of characters! If you're looking for a heartwarming friends to lovers, fake dating romance, look no further! All the feels!
*I received an ARC via Thats What She Said Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and given freely.
What You'll Find:
✔️MF Sports Romance
✔️Heroine Who Races Dirt Bikes
✔️Hero An Ex Pro Pitcher
✔️Friends to Lovers
✔️Fake Dating
✔️Mutual Pining
✔️Slow Burn to Sizzle
✔️Diversity/LGTBQ+ Rep
✔️Dual POV
Well, this was such a joy to read! A heartfelt romance with a community spirit that will make you laugh, all while pulling at your heartstrings. Two MC's full of flirty wit and banter. A slow burn with pining, that leads to some serious sizzle! And many tender, intimate moments too, that will warm your heart. I so enjoyed coming back to South Philly and this great cast of characters! If you're looking for a heartwarming friends to lovers, fake dating romance, look no further! All the feels!
*I received an ARC via Thats What She Said Publishing in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and given freely.
November 11, 2022
Kathryn Nolan is an amazing author. She tells stories of real people with real issues. Charlie and Rowan are an amazing beautiful story of young friends who reconnect and both need each other.
They’ve truthfully always needed each other but as they open up to each other and really themselves….. it’s just such an incredible read.
I loved both of their determination in life. How their pasts were affecting them. I loved the family connections. Her dad, his grandmom, Dean and Rowan, connections through a sport where people do support each other.
This goes into my favorite books of all time! A top 2022 read and truly a book that just makes you want to love the people in your lives a little bit harder!
They’ve truthfully always needed each other but as they open up to each other and really themselves….. it’s just such an incredible read.
I loved both of their determination in life. How their pasts were affecting them. I loved the family connections. Her dad, his grandmom, Dean and Rowan, connections through a sport where people do support each other.
This goes into my favorite books of all time! A top 2022 read and truly a book that just makes you want to love the people in your lives a little bit harder!
November 6, 2022
I absolutely love this book! Charlie is a motocross legend who got herself in some hot water with her sponsor. So she cooks up a plan to take date her old friend Rowan. The sparks are immediate and hot! This book has a bit of everything, fake dating, friends to lovers, chosen families, and at the core just a giant heart for life! Grab this book, you will not be disappointed!!
November 3, 2022
Such a sweet friends to lovers, fake dating, slow burn! Our main characters have so much flirty and fun banter. There is so much of a community and family feeling in this book, which made it so heartwarming. Loved it 🖤
November 1, 2022
Rowen and Charlie were a wonderful ride. Slow Burn that got really hot. Entertaining and informative featuring women's motocross racing and professional baseball both major and minor league. Kathryn always teaches me something that makes me think and I love that. Strong connection to family and community. Completely relatable. I loved it
December 5, 2022
I was generously given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5⭐️
f: Charlie
m: Rowan
(Dual POVs)
If you’ve read On The Ropes by this author, there’s some characters you might recognize (Dean, Tabitha and Eddie to name a few!) but I wouldn’t say that it’s required to read it before this one. I read it over a year ago, so some of the details from it are a little hazy, but I was able to read this book without feeling like I was missing crucial pieces or details.
I’m definitely a part of the Charlie Maddox fan base and I might have a teeny girl crush on her! I love the way she stands up for herself and for what she believes in. The way that she is so unapologetically herself was inspiring and I rather enjoyed her quirks and her style! I also greatly appreciated how her job was unique, uncommon, and badass! In the books that I’ve read, it’s typically the male MCs who are fiercely ready to go after anyone who has ever wronged their love interest but with this book, it was interestingly refreshing to see Charlie take on the same protective attitude with Rowan!
Getting Rowan’s POV was definitely necessary for this book! Hearing how much he has been infatuated with her and head over heels for her since they met was sweet! It spoke volumes to me that the first person he called when he was injured was Charlie. Also, how even with his plate full with running a struggling community help center, he still takes on the task of pretending to be Charlie’s boyfriend because he would do almost anything to demonstrate how much he cares about her by showing up and being there for her.
These two were very alike in some areas, having similar reactions when they were feeling vulnerable. This made it a little hard for them to work through difficult conversations, but I understood their insecurities and the actions they took because of them. On the other hand, I loved how their similar insecurities and struggles really helped them to understand each other and connect with each other. The bond that they had because of this was very evident!
We jump right into conflicts with both of these characters within the first chapters from their POVs. I felt like being introduced to the characters at the same time we learned about their individual conflicts kept me from being fully invested at the beginning. The easiest way I can put it would be to say, typically, I believe people are more inclined and passionate about helping others that they know versus helping a stranger they just met. For me, I think if we could have gotten a chance to meet the characters in the first chapters, and then learned about the issues they were facing a couple of chapters later, it would have given me time to connect with the characters, before needing to be invested in their conflicts.
Favorite Quotes:
“There’s nothing kitten-like about me. What part of my personality is soft and cuddly?”
“What part of your personality isn’t stubborn and full of mischief?”
I’d been painfully, desperately into Charlie Maddox from the moment we met. My lust for her itched under the skin, a constant distraction. -Rowan
“Are we doing a girls’ night? I can make myself free immediately. Listen, that’s the sound of me shoving my work into a trashcan.” -Tabitha
3.5⭐️
f: Charlie
m: Rowan
(Dual POVs)
If you’ve read On The Ropes by this author, there’s some characters you might recognize (Dean, Tabitha and Eddie to name a few!) but I wouldn’t say that it’s required to read it before this one. I read it over a year ago, so some of the details from it are a little hazy, but I was able to read this book without feeling like I was missing crucial pieces or details.
I’m definitely a part of the Charlie Maddox fan base and I might have a teeny girl crush on her! I love the way she stands up for herself and for what she believes in. The way that she is so unapologetically herself was inspiring and I rather enjoyed her quirks and her style! I also greatly appreciated how her job was unique, uncommon, and badass! In the books that I’ve read, it’s typically the male MCs who are fiercely ready to go after anyone who has ever wronged their love interest but with this book, it was interestingly refreshing to see Charlie take on the same protective attitude with Rowan!
Getting Rowan’s POV was definitely necessary for this book! Hearing how much he has been infatuated with her and head over heels for her since they met was sweet! It spoke volumes to me that the first person he called when he was injured was Charlie. Also, how even with his plate full with running a struggling community help center, he still takes on the task of pretending to be Charlie’s boyfriend because he would do almost anything to demonstrate how much he cares about her by showing up and being there for her.
These two were very alike in some areas, having similar reactions when they were feeling vulnerable. This made it a little hard for them to work through difficult conversations, but I understood their insecurities and the actions they took because of them. On the other hand, I loved how their similar insecurities and struggles really helped them to understand each other and connect with each other. The bond that they had because of this was very evident!
We jump right into conflicts with both of these characters within the first chapters from their POVs. I felt like being introduced to the characters at the same time we learned about their individual conflicts kept me from being fully invested at the beginning. The easiest way I can put it would be to say, typically, I believe people are more inclined and passionate about helping others that they know versus helping a stranger they just met. For me, I think if we could have gotten a chance to meet the characters in the first chapters, and then learned about the issues they were facing a couple of chapters later, it would have given me time to connect with the characters, before needing to be invested in their conflicts.
Favorite Quotes:
“There’s nothing kitten-like about me. What part of my personality is soft and cuddly?”
“What part of your personality isn’t stubborn and full of mischief?”
I’d been painfully, desperately into Charlie Maddox from the moment we met. My lust for her itched under the skin, a constant distraction. -Rowan
“Are we doing a girls’ night? I can make myself free immediately. Listen, that’s the sound of me shoving my work into a trashcan.” -Tabitha
December 24, 2022
4.75⭐️s! I lovvvved this. This was my first book by Kathryn Nolan and I will 100% be reading more! I found myself seriously in love with both Rowan and Charlie.
Rowan was the sweetest, and Charlie was such a badass. Their personalities balanced out so well. The slow burn had me reading this nonstop. I could not put it down. I just need to find a man who will make glitter signs for me. 🥹
Tropes:
Fake Dating
Friends to lovers
Sports Romance
Thank you Kathryn Nolan and That’s What She Said publishing for the arc <3
Rowan was the sweetest, and Charlie was such a badass. Their personalities balanced out so well. The slow burn had me reading this nonstop. I could not put it down. I just need to find a man who will make glitter signs for me. 🥹
Tropes:
Fake Dating
Friends to lovers
Sports Romance
Thank you Kathryn Nolan and That’s What She Said publishing for the arc <3
November 10, 2022
This was EVERYTHING! I loved every second of Off the Mark. The depth of the characters, their history together, all the fun sexy banter, and all the emotion and feelings filled me completely. Exceptional read!
I loved Charlie and Rowan so much. She was a tough, kick-ass woman with a huge heart. I loved her strength and devotion. I felt for her as I learned about her past and the struggles she was facing. Rowan had my heart right from the start. He was such a player but so incredibly sweet. His dedication to his family, friends, and neighborhood was inspiring. Charlie and Rowan together? Stick a fork in me, I was done (in the best way!). I enjoyed how the need for a fake relationship reconnected them. I loved learning about their history, what held them back in the past, as well as what they were going through in the present day. There was a good amount of tension that was filled with want and need and I could feel the longing between them. There was a wonderful mix of sweet moments, vulnerable ones, and entertaining ones too. They had the best playful, flirty banter that I adored. When their true feelings finally break through, it was raw and emotional. There was a fantastic slow burn as everything unfolded. As for the sexy times… let me just say WOW! Yes, it was super-hot but it was so much more because it felt intimate and real and I could feel their connection. My heart was pretty much exploding all over the place throughout the story.
There were so many outstanding characters mixed in and they made Charlie and Rowan’s world even brighter. I loved the feeling of hope their family and friends exuded, lifting them up. The relationship Rowan has with his grandmother was so beautiful, she was a true gem. The friendship that Rowan had with Dean was so special and filled me up, those two are so fun together but they have this incredible bond that was touching. I loved Tabitha and her bright personality and how she embraced Charlie. If you haven't read On the Ropes yet (Dean and Tabitha’s story), I highly recommend it.
There were just so many amazing moments and so much goodness in this. The build and development of them coming together was so well executed. The story unfolded at the perfect pace and I felt so pulled in, a part of their world. I laughed my way through, got choked up, and cheered for them. This is one of those stories where the stars aligned for me and it was perfect because it made me feel all the things. I liked it from the start, then I loved it, and by the end, it became one of my favorite books of the year. A must-read!
Complimentary copy received from That's What She Said Publishing.
I loved Charlie and Rowan so much. She was a tough, kick-ass woman with a huge heart. I loved her strength and devotion. I felt for her as I learned about her past and the struggles she was facing. Rowan had my heart right from the start. He was such a player but so incredibly sweet. His dedication to his family, friends, and neighborhood was inspiring. Charlie and Rowan together? Stick a fork in me, I was done (in the best way!). I enjoyed how the need for a fake relationship reconnected them. I loved learning about their history, what held them back in the past, as well as what they were going through in the present day. There was a good amount of tension that was filled with want and need and I could feel the longing between them. There was a wonderful mix of sweet moments, vulnerable ones, and entertaining ones too. They had the best playful, flirty banter that I adored. When their true feelings finally break through, it was raw and emotional. There was a fantastic slow burn as everything unfolded. As for the sexy times… let me just say WOW! Yes, it was super-hot but it was so much more because it felt intimate and real and I could feel their connection. My heart was pretty much exploding all over the place throughout the story.
There were so many outstanding characters mixed in and they made Charlie and Rowan’s world even brighter. I loved the feeling of hope their family and friends exuded, lifting them up. The relationship Rowan has with his grandmother was so beautiful, she was a true gem. The friendship that Rowan had with Dean was so special and filled me up, those two are so fun together but they have this incredible bond that was touching. I loved Tabitha and her bright personality and how she embraced Charlie. If you haven't read On the Ropes yet (Dean and Tabitha’s story), I highly recommend it.
There were just so many amazing moments and so much goodness in this. The build and development of them coming together was so well executed. The story unfolded at the perfect pace and I felt so pulled in, a part of their world. I laughed my way through, got choked up, and cheered for them. This is one of those stories where the stars aligned for me and it was perfect because it made me feel all the things. I liked it from the start, then I loved it, and by the end, it became one of my favorite books of the year. A must-read!
Complimentary copy received from That's What She Said Publishing.
November 30, 2022
Another Kathryn Nolan masterpiece...
THE PINING... *drops to her knees* ... Dear God the pining!
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲: Friends-to-Lovers, fake dating, sports romance
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Charlie is in hot water with her sponsors to clean up her image. She asks her friend Rowan for a favor - help her regain her sponsor's trust, and she will hook him up with some key donors to keep his local community center open. But those feelings they're faking? Behind the lies, they're pretty real.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: It's no secret I love Kathryn Nolan's writing. This is her fifth book I've read and L rated over four stars. And they all leave me feeling some type of way. Because she has this way of making every story, and her characters, deeper and more relatable than ever.
I loved this story specifically. Charlie is suck a great character - takes no prisoners, struggles to be vulnerable but can't help being swept up by Rowan. The man himself is a gem, and so easy for a reader to fall for.
Add to that the gorgeous South Philly details she adds in that always hit me in the feels, the spice that's just perfect, and some solid laughs... and we are here again with me telling you that you absolutely should pick this one up.
𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀: I have three great Kathryn Nolan recs. If you loved this book specifically, Dean's book is called On the Ropes. One of my 2022 top reads is Rival Radio, an enemies-to-lovers about rival radio hosts. And last, one if my FAVORITE second chance romances, Out of the Blue. Similar female athlete vibes.
🆓️ on KU
THE PINING... *drops to her knees* ... Dear God the pining!
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲: Friends-to-Lovers, fake dating, sports romance
📖 𝗦𝘆𝗻𝗼𝗽𝘀𝗶𝘀: Charlie is in hot water with her sponsors to clean up her image. She asks her friend Rowan for a favor - help her regain her sponsor's trust, and she will hook him up with some key donors to keep his local community center open. But those feelings they're faking? Behind the lies, they're pretty real.
🌟 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄: It's no secret I love Kathryn Nolan's writing. This is her fifth book I've read and L rated over four stars. And they all leave me feeling some type of way. Because she has this way of making every story, and her characters, deeper and more relatable than ever.
I loved this story specifically. Charlie is suck a great character - takes no prisoners, struggles to be vulnerable but can't help being swept up by Rowan. The man himself is a gem, and so easy for a reader to fall for.
Add to that the gorgeous South Philly details she adds in that always hit me in the feels, the spice that's just perfect, and some solid laughs... and we are here again with me telling you that you absolutely should pick this one up.
𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀: I have three great Kathryn Nolan recs. If you loved this book specifically, Dean's book is called On the Ropes. One of my 2022 top reads is Rival Radio, an enemies-to-lovers about rival radio hosts. And last, one if my FAVORITE second chance romances, Out of the Blue. Similar female athlete vibes.
🆓️ on KU
November 11, 2022
Thank you Kathryn, Rick, and That’s What She Said Publishing for this ARC
If you’re looking for an indie author that has spice that hits you in the face, look no further than Kathryn Nolan. I told her I would beg for a book of just first kisses because WOW! You can just feel the longing from the characters seeping through into that kiss
•It was always easier to ignore the raw power of Rowan’s attractiveness with physical objects blocking the way.•
Rowan and Charlie have a history of just being there for one another. They met when Rowan was in the Minor League. He would go to the bar she worked at, would flirt with her, she would turn him down, and so forth. It was all fun in games. But it turns out that Rowan was very serious.
•The hunger in his eyes now was different. Edgier, full of something like true yearning. I’d never, not once, been on the receiving end of such palpable longing. Which was why I spun around and blurted, “Do you think we should practice kissing?”•
In the case of who falls first, boy definitely falls first. And just seeing Charlie continue to call their relationship fake (when it actually was) hurt me just as much as it did Rowan.
•I’d spent more nights at Jolene’s than I could count, wanting to be used by Charlie Maddox. Nights when she’d toss me a cool smirk over her shoulder, and I’d long to drop in front of her. Curl my hands around the back of her thighs and say: Use me. For the love of god, I’m here every fucking night for a reason. Isn’t it obvious?•
Their fake relationship was beneficial for each other. Until an anvil hits them at seemingly the same time. Charlie fell hard, but Rowan fell harder.
•It’d been twenty hours since she’d left my bed. And the second my gaze connected with hers through the crowd, I was a goner.•
I loved these two. And I know my review won’t do much justice. Just reading this will
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you’re looking for an indie author that has spice that hits you in the face, look no further than Kathryn Nolan. I told her I would beg for a book of just first kisses because WOW! You can just feel the longing from the characters seeping through into that kiss
•It was always easier to ignore the raw power of Rowan’s attractiveness with physical objects blocking the way.•
Rowan and Charlie have a history of just being there for one another. They met when Rowan was in the Minor League. He would go to the bar she worked at, would flirt with her, she would turn him down, and so forth. It was all fun in games. But it turns out that Rowan was very serious.
•The hunger in his eyes now was different. Edgier, full of something like true yearning. I’d never, not once, been on the receiving end of such palpable longing. Which was why I spun around and blurted, “Do you think we should practice kissing?”•
In the case of who falls first, boy definitely falls first. And just seeing Charlie continue to call their relationship fake (when it actually was) hurt me just as much as it did Rowan.
•I’d spent more nights at Jolene’s than I could count, wanting to be used by Charlie Maddox. Nights when she’d toss me a cool smirk over her shoulder, and I’d long to drop in front of her. Curl my hands around the back of her thighs and say: Use me. For the love of god, I’m here every fucking night for a reason. Isn’t it obvious?•
Their fake relationship was beneficial for each other. Until an anvil hits them at seemingly the same time. Charlie fell hard, but Rowan fell harder.
•It’d been twenty hours since she’d left my bed. And the second my gaze connected with hers through the crowd, I was a goner.•
I loved these two. And I know my review won’t do much justice. Just reading this will
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 11, 2022
Off The Mark is superbly SPOT ON! It checks off so many boxes that Katheryn Nolan is famous for filling in like no other. Rowan - so swoony and charming with a big heart; and Charlie - edgy, obstinate and loyal. These two are the epitome of perfection, and fit together seamlessly.
This friends-to-lovers story is heartwarming as it captures that “hygge” or cozy feeling that’s brought on by including close relationships with family and friends. The closeness of Charlie and her father is unyielding and forgiving. The bond between Rowan and his friends/family/community shows such strong devotion. Between these two, you can feel the love come off each page, and the never-ending crackle of the sizzle. This deep affection is intwined into their love for one another. It’s palpable and truly invigorating.
Kathryn molds these characters and story in such a way that you feel their emotions. You feel the pain, joy, hurt and love. Strong emotions are intrinsic to a Kathryn Nolan novel. I am always here for the feels that are synonymous with her stories. Off The Mark is full of joy and delight. Hitting the end is bitter sweet; but you are definitely left with a full heart and floating on cloud nine. Don’t leave this one on the shelf!
This friends-to-lovers story is heartwarming as it captures that “hygge” or cozy feeling that’s brought on by including close relationships with family and friends. The closeness of Charlie and her father is unyielding and forgiving. The bond between Rowan and his friends/family/community shows such strong devotion. Between these two, you can feel the love come off each page, and the never-ending crackle of the sizzle. This deep affection is intwined into their love for one another. It’s palpable and truly invigorating.
Kathryn molds these characters and story in such a way that you feel their emotions. You feel the pain, joy, hurt and love. Strong emotions are intrinsic to a Kathryn Nolan novel. I am always here for the feels that are synonymous with her stories. Off The Mark is full of joy and delight. Hitting the end is bitter sweet; but you are definitely left with a full heart and floating on cloud nine. Don’t leave this one on the shelf!
November 10, 2022
This book felt so authentically Kathryn Nolan in many different ways. The characters were smart, swoony, hot, and yet so real and soft in the middle. Charlie is a charming bad!ss who finds how to be her true self regardless of the dollars on the line. Rowan is a sexy, confident playboy who's really a romantic at heart. The community showcased in this story along with the beautiful healing that's offered just made my soul happy. I smiled pretty much from beginning to end, even through the tough parts because I could just feel the way their souls were filling in the cracks in order to be what each other needed. Love is showcased in this story in so many ways: community, parents-children, friends, lovers, teams. It was truly a wonderful read.
November 7, 2022
This was a very highly anticipated read for me and it delivered in every way. As soon as I finished On The Ropes I was ready to read about Rowan. I knew the playboy good guy was going to give good romance.
Rowan is so charming and sweet, a good guy with his walls up after a devastating loss in his childhood. He had no interest in anything permanent however we learn along the way that may not have always been the case.
Charlie’s story is very raw and vulnerable and I really enjoyed her inner monologue as she worked through her wants, needs and responsibilities.
The romantic tension between these two seeped off the page. The line between fake and real blurs very quickly and it was delightful to see them become invested in each others success and happiness even more than there own.
We get to learn about and enjoy more of the wonderful supporting characters from On The Ropes and I especially loved Alice and her relationship everyone.
Filled with Kathryn Nolan’s trademarks of strong kickass heroines, swoony hero’s, hilarious and heartfelt secondary characters and a big dose of community Off The Mark is a wonderful fake dating, friends to lovers story that wraps your heart in love and joy.
Rowan is so charming and sweet, a good guy with his walls up after a devastating loss in his childhood. He had no interest in anything permanent however we learn along the way that may not have always been the case.
Charlie’s story is very raw and vulnerable and I really enjoyed her inner monologue as she worked through her wants, needs and responsibilities.
The romantic tension between these two seeped off the page. The line between fake and real blurs very quickly and it was delightful to see them become invested in each others success and happiness even more than there own.
We get to learn about and enjoy more of the wonderful supporting characters from On The Ropes and I especially loved Alice and her relationship everyone.
Filled with Kathryn Nolan’s trademarks of strong kickass heroines, swoony hero’s, hilarious and heartfelt secondary characters and a big dose of community Off The Mark is a wonderful fake dating, friends to lovers story that wraps your heart in love and joy.
November 10, 2022
Sweet emotion!
Rowan has loved Charlie for years, but she shot him down every time he took a chance. So, they ended up as the best of friends, always being there for each other. It’s not until Charlie needs a fake boyfriend to repair her damaged social media image that the truth comes out. Charlie has always loved Rowan, also. And that’s where this emotional story begins, there’s a lot of sadness in the beginning, but this story wraps up with the most heartfelt and joyful slide into happiness. Rowan and Charlie both have painful backstories that they need to deal with, alone and together, but with the help of their South Philly friends and family, coming together never tasted so sweet.
Rowan has loved Charlie for years, but she shot him down every time he took a chance. So, they ended up as the best of friends, always being there for each other. It’s not until Charlie needs a fake boyfriend to repair her damaged social media image that the truth comes out. Charlie has always loved Rowan, also. And that’s where this emotional story begins, there’s a lot of sadness in the beginning, but this story wraps up with the most heartfelt and joyful slide into happiness. Rowan and Charlie both have painful backstories that they need to deal with, alone and together, but with the help of their South Philly friends and family, coming together never tasted so sweet.
November 16, 2022
This was a terrific book with a very under utilized trope of women’s professional motocross racing. I loved that I learned so much about that sport in this book. Not only does it sound exciting, but Nolan exposes some of the sexism and misogyny in the sport as well.
Fake dating and Friends to Lovers make up the romance tropes and the obstacles for these two. Charlie and Rowan (whose names I constantly got backwards!) were friends as their careers were starting out. They both got big breaks, but they are both struggling with their careers when they meet up again.
I loved how these two would drop anything for each other and their friendship is deeper than either wants to fully admit. And when they finally stop being “just friends” the sparks absolutely fly! Not only are Charlie and Rowan terrific, but Rowan’s friends and grandma play important roles, as well as the whole community that Rowan’s community center serves.
This is a great story with a lot of heart! This book is a standalone, but comes two years after On the Ropes and I haven’t read that one yet, but I definitely will now!
I received an early reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions.
Fake dating and Friends to Lovers make up the romance tropes and the obstacles for these two. Charlie and Rowan (whose names I constantly got backwards!) were friends as their careers were starting out. They both got big breaks, but they are both struggling with their careers when they meet up again.
I loved how these two would drop anything for each other and their friendship is deeper than either wants to fully admit. And when they finally stop being “just friends” the sparks absolutely fly! Not only are Charlie and Rowan terrific, but Rowan’s friends and grandma play important roles, as well as the whole community that Rowan’s community center serves.
This is a great story with a lot of heart! This book is a standalone, but comes two years after On the Ropes and I haven’t read that one yet, but I definitely will now!
I received an early reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions.
November 10, 2022
What a wild ride back to Philly! I was ecstatic when I found out Kathryn was giving us Rowan's HEA and could not wait to get back to 10th Street and the phenomenal community she created in On The Ropes. This book hit the mark with a sassy, motocross racing, shero, Charlie, who meets her match in Rowan, the ex-baseball player with a heart of gold. The banter, bromance, family neighborhood vibe, and the steam we've all come to expect from a Kathryn Nolan romance, kept me turning pages and wanting to stay on Emily Street with my feet in a kiddie pool right along side Eddie and Alice.
November 11, 2022
What an amazing story!
I was hoping for Rowan’s book ever since he first appeared on the page oh On the Ropes, and boy, am I in awe of Kathryn Nolan’s talent and craft for gifting us this incredible friends, to “fake” lovers to FOREVER in love, story.
This slow burn romance gives us a glance into a traditionally male dominated sport of motocross; and our heroine - Charlie - is an unstoppable force in this dangerous and often dangerous racing world.
As an interim Executive Director of a Community center, Rowan is passionate about helping people and providing support to the very community that helped him and his Grandmother after his parents died in his early childhood.
Both Charlie and Rowan harbor insecurities stemming from their upbringing and making them vulnerable and afraid to deal with the very real feelings they have for each other.
“All the times I worried I would never know what this felt like, only to realize I already did”.
I loved visiting South Philly again and catching up with beloved characters from previous books, including Pam (the cat) and her brand new sidekick Tiffany (the kitten, Rowan had to rescue from a tree). There is so much love and camaraderie in the neighborhood and the life long residents who are always in each others business.
Off the Mark is a definite page turner, I so enjoyed the beautifully written, captivating story full of love, intrigue, laugh, swoon and steam - I highly recommend it to all romcom enthusiasts!
I was hoping for Rowan’s book ever since he first appeared on the page oh On the Ropes, and boy, am I in awe of Kathryn Nolan’s talent and craft for gifting us this incredible friends, to “fake” lovers to FOREVER in love, story.
This slow burn romance gives us a glance into a traditionally male dominated sport of motocross; and our heroine - Charlie - is an unstoppable force in this dangerous and often dangerous racing world.
As an interim Executive Director of a Community center, Rowan is passionate about helping people and providing support to the very community that helped him and his Grandmother after his parents died in his early childhood.
Both Charlie and Rowan harbor insecurities stemming from their upbringing and making them vulnerable and afraid to deal with the very real feelings they have for each other.
“All the times I worried I would never know what this felt like, only to realize I already did”.
I loved visiting South Philly again and catching up with beloved characters from previous books, including Pam (the cat) and her brand new sidekick Tiffany (the kitten, Rowan had to rescue from a tree). There is so much love and camaraderie in the neighborhood and the life long residents who are always in each others business.
Off the Mark is a definite page turner, I so enjoyed the beautifully written, captivating story full of love, intrigue, laugh, swoon and steam - I highly recommend it to all romcom enthusiasts!
November 5, 2022
This is a very nice romantic story.
It's a mix of friends to lovers and fake relationship tropes.
I liked how sweet and sexy it was. The plot is engaging with their dramatic personal events and the
brewing romance. The characters are very different but they're nice. Rowan appeared as a playboy but treated Charlie like a true gentleman. She was a spitfire and hid her vulnerable side very well.
I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it to everyone.
It's a mix of friends to lovers and fake relationship tropes.
I liked how sweet and sexy it was. The plot is engaging with their dramatic personal events and the
brewing romance. The characters are very different but they're nice. Rowan appeared as a playboy but treated Charlie like a true gentleman. She was a spitfire and hid her vulnerable side very well.
I enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it to everyone.
dnf-shelf
December 25, 2022DNF at 63%. I may need to try something else by this author. This was long-winded and the plot with the community center took away from the romance for me.
December 30, 2022
this was a very generic but still enjoyable friends to lovers, fake dating romance.
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