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Trophy Boyfriends #3
Difficile da amare
Tripp Wallace avrà anche una carriera perfetta, ma è una schiappa nelle relazioni sentimentali...
Difficile da amare.
Testone. Brutto carattere. Sarebbe un fidanzato terribile. Ecco cosa dicono di me le ragazze che ho frequentato, ma non facevo sul serio con nessuna di loro, quindi che m’importa dei pettegolezzi che diffondono? Voglio solo essere lasciato in pace, dalla stampa, dai paparazzi, dalle donne.
Peccato che stia per esserne circondato, per tutto il fine settimana.
Quell’impiccione fastidioso di mio fratello si sposa, e sta facendo di tutto per trovarmi un’accompagnatrice per il matrimonio…
Difficile da trovare.
Ecco quello che si dice dei bravi ragazzi: che siano difficili da trovare. E anche nel caso ne trovassi uno, con ogni probabilità io non sarei il tipo di donna che sta cercando. Sono troppo gentile, educata, ingenua.
Mia cugina Hollis si sposa e il suo fidanzato insiste per accoppiarmi con suo fratello. Tripp Wallace, giocatore di football freddo e insensibile, non mi guarderebbe mai una seconda volta. Di me pensa che sia noiosa.
Purtroppo per lui, si sbaglia di grosso.
Difficile da amare.
Testone. Brutto carattere. Sarebbe un fidanzato terribile. Ecco cosa dicono di me le ragazze che ho frequentato, ma non facevo sul serio con nessuna di loro, quindi che m’importa dei pettegolezzi che diffondono? Voglio solo essere lasciato in pace, dalla stampa, dai paparazzi, dalle donne.
Peccato che stia per esserne circondato, per tutto il fine settimana.
Quell’impiccione fastidioso di mio fratello si sposa, e sta facendo di tutto per trovarmi un’accompagnatrice per il matrimonio…
Difficile da trovare.
Ecco quello che si dice dei bravi ragazzi: che siano difficili da trovare. E anche nel caso ne trovassi uno, con ogni probabilità io non sarei il tipo di donna che sta cercando. Sono troppo gentile, educata, ingenua.
Mia cugina Hollis si sposa e il suo fidanzato insiste per accoppiarmi con suo fratello. Tripp Wallace, giocatore di football freddo e insensibile, non mi guarderebbe mai una seconda volta. Di me pensa che sia noiosa.
Purtroppo per lui, si sbaglia di grosso.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2020
944 people are currently reading
1973 people want to read
About the author
Sara Ney
89 books6,629 followersSara Ney is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the How to Date a Douchebag series, and is best known for her sexy, laugh-out-loud New Adult romances. Among her favorite vices, she includes: iced latte's, historical architecture and well-placed sarcasm. She lives colorfully, collects vintage books, art, loves flea markets, and fancies herself British.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 488 reviews
December 2, 2020
You know how sometimes you realize a particular series just isn't for you? Like maybe your tastes changed or your expectation are too high? This is that series for me. I love Sara's Douchebags, and while I liked book 1 in this series, by book 3 I realized that I'm not the target audience for this book.
I felt zero chemistry with these characters. It was almost mechanical the way things progressed. I read it, but I felt nothing. And while I love grumpy heroes, grumpy dudebro's aren't my cuppa. I had no connection to Tripp and it only deteriorated as the story progressed. The humor felt forced and a bit cheesy.
I love a good romcom, but sadly this just wasn't the book for me.
I felt zero chemistry with these characters. It was almost mechanical the way things progressed. I read it, but I felt nothing. And while I love grumpy heroes, grumpy dudebro's aren't my cuppa. I had no connection to Tripp and it only deteriorated as the story progressed. The humor felt forced and a bit cheesy.
I love a good romcom, but sadly this just wasn't the book for me.
December 4, 2020
I loved this book!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💋💋💋💋💋
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 👏👏👏👏👏
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 🤓🥸😎😤🤥
The setting: Chicago
The Hero: Tripp Wallace – Professional football player and a bit of a grump. Tripp almost always has a bad attitude except when he hangs out with his brother Buzz. However, Buzz is getting married and Tripp is not looking forward to having to dress up and attend all the wedding festivities, but as the best man and brother, he can’t bow out. He is even sore that they didn’t postpone the honeymoon to Fiji till after football season so he could go with like a family vacation.
The heroine: Chandler Westbrooke – a member of the wealthy Westbrooke family. Her Grandfather owns the Chicago Steam (professional Football Team). Chandler is single, shy and finished her masters degree and moved to come work with her family for five years.
The Love Story: Over the wedding weekend when Tripp’s brother is marrying Chandler’s cousin, the two are thrown together more than once. Tripp thinks Chandler is boring and Chandler thinks Tripp is rude and cranky. However, something happens at the wedding that puts them in the spotlight together.
This was one of the strangest romances I have ever read, but it was funny. Tripp’s grumpy inner commentary was absolutely hilarious and I couldn’t wait for this couple to end up in bed together. Though Chandler acknowledges how attractive Tripp is, she has no desire to do anything with him and I love the fact that he has to work for it and she is sharp, funny and no-nonsense.
Tripp is a bit lacking in social graces and believes that he is only single because that is what he wants and that he just doesn’t have time for dating. However, you can tell he really would like someone special in his life, he just needs someone to accept him. Tripp is loving and has a bulldog named Chewy that he takes to daycare and has a neighbor look after when he is away.
I totally loved this book! I was chuckling throughout the entire book. The character development was terrific. I love it when they include a cute cuddly animal and Tripps neighbor who walks Chewy, 15 year old Molly was totally priceless. The romance was built throughout the book and felt like the natural progression from hate to love while usually in enemies to lovers type books, it seems to change almost right away. I hope there will be a lot more of this series and I definitely plan to read more from Sara Ney.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💋💋💋💋💋
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 👏👏👏👏👏
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 🤓🥸😎😤🤥
The setting: Chicago
The Hero: Tripp Wallace – Professional football player and a bit of a grump. Tripp almost always has a bad attitude except when he hangs out with his brother Buzz. However, Buzz is getting married and Tripp is not looking forward to having to dress up and attend all the wedding festivities, but as the best man and brother, he can’t bow out. He is even sore that they didn’t postpone the honeymoon to Fiji till after football season so he could go with like a family vacation.
The heroine: Chandler Westbrooke – a member of the wealthy Westbrooke family. Her Grandfather owns the Chicago Steam (professional Football Team). Chandler is single, shy and finished her masters degree and moved to come work with her family for five years.
The Love Story: Over the wedding weekend when Tripp’s brother is marrying Chandler’s cousin, the two are thrown together more than once. Tripp thinks Chandler is boring and Chandler thinks Tripp is rude and cranky. However, something happens at the wedding that puts them in the spotlight together.
This was one of the strangest romances I have ever read, but it was funny. Tripp’s grumpy inner commentary was absolutely hilarious and I couldn’t wait for this couple to end up in bed together. Though Chandler acknowledges how attractive Tripp is, she has no desire to do anything with him and I love the fact that he has to work for it and she is sharp, funny and no-nonsense.
Tripp is a bit lacking in social graces and believes that he is only single because that is what he wants and that he just doesn’t have time for dating. However, you can tell he really would like someone special in his life, he just needs someone to accept him. Tripp is loving and has a bulldog named Chewy that he takes to daycare and has a neighbor look after when he is away.
I totally loved this book! I was chuckling throughout the entire book. The character development was terrific. I love it when they include a cute cuddly animal and Tripps neighbor who walks Chewy, 15 year old Molly was totally priceless. The romance was built throughout the book and felt like the natural progression from hate to love while usually in enemies to lovers type books, it seems to change almost right away. I hope there will be a lot more of this series and I definitely plan to read more from Sara Ney.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
March 24, 2021
3 stars
Hard Love is the third book in Sara Ney's 'Trophy Boyfriends' series and it's aptly titled. Our hero, Tripp Wallace was just that. Hard to love. By the end of the book he definitely grew on me, but after reading his brother's book and adoring him, this hero didn't even come close to me. I love Ney's writing and humor and I enjoyed the heroine and many of the side characters, but unfortunately this one just wasn't a favorite for me.
Hard Love is the third book in Sara Ney's 'Trophy Boyfriends' series and it's aptly titled. Our hero, Tripp Wallace was just that. Hard to love. By the end of the book he definitely grew on me, but after reading his brother's book and adoring him, this hero didn't even come close to me. I love Ney's writing and humor and I enjoyed the heroine and many of the side characters, but unfortunately this one just wasn't a favorite for me.
Audio book source: Hoopla (library borrow)
Story Rating: 3 stars
Narrators: Elizabeth Hart and Alexander Cendese
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance (Sports)
Length: 8 hours 13 minutes
November 19, 2020
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions)
Tripp Wallace is a professional football player in the NFL for the Chicago Blues. He's 28, single, and is perfectly fine being a bachelor. He lives life in the public eye, but prefers his privacy. The press and paparazzi have labeled him difficult, but he could care less what others think of him. He's a cocky, arrogant star athlete with no filter who is guarded and grouchy. Some might even say too serious, but again, he minds his own business, and just wants to be left alone.
When his obnoxious younger brother finds the love of his life and is getting married, Tripp is forced to step out of his comfort zone to attend the wedding festivities. He just has to get through a few days of socializing. Shouldn't be too bad. Then his brother decides to play matchmaker and he meets Chandler Westbrooke. She complicates his life and annoys him, but soon he grows to appreciate she's different from any other woman he's ever met.
Chandler Westbrooke is a shy, quiet, rule follower who some might at first glance label as boring or ordinary. She's sweet, smart, and ready to find a good guy. Her cousin is getting married, and they try to throw her together with the groom's brother Tripp. He's gorgeous to look at, but then he opens his mouth and it's ruined. He's like a caveman with no manners or etiquette. Warm and fuzzy he is not. He's stubborn, blunt, straight forward, and comes across as a bit of a jerk. He's not her type at all, and she can guarantee she's not his either, or is she? Could there be more to this sexy jock than what's on the surface?
-“I don’t want to know what my life is like without you.”
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3) by Sara Ney is a standalone enemies to lovers sports romance where opposites attract and sparks fly. This book kept me laughing throughout. It's a fun, flirty, playful story with hilarious banter and electric chemistry. I couldn't get enough of these two and the way they try to resist one another. I loved feisty Chandler, and how she comes out of her shell, and Tripp who unexpectedly stole my heart. This was my first book by Sara Ney, and I'm hooked. I now need to read the other books, especially Buzz's, and I can't wait for True's story up next in Hard Luck!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2UT14J7
(ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions)
Tripp Wallace is a professional football player in the NFL for the Chicago Blues. He's 28, single, and is perfectly fine being a bachelor. He lives life in the public eye, but prefers his privacy. The press and paparazzi have labeled him difficult, but he could care less what others think of him. He's a cocky, arrogant star athlete with no filter who is guarded and grouchy. Some might even say too serious, but again, he minds his own business, and just wants to be left alone.
When his obnoxious younger brother finds the love of his life and is getting married, Tripp is forced to step out of his comfort zone to attend the wedding festivities. He just has to get through a few days of socializing. Shouldn't be too bad. Then his brother decides to play matchmaker and he meets Chandler Westbrooke. She complicates his life and annoys him, but soon he grows to appreciate she's different from any other woman he's ever met.
Chandler Westbrooke is a shy, quiet, rule follower who some might at first glance label as boring or ordinary. She's sweet, smart, and ready to find a good guy. Her cousin is getting married, and they try to throw her together with the groom's brother Tripp. He's gorgeous to look at, but then he opens his mouth and it's ruined. He's like a caveman with no manners or etiquette. Warm and fuzzy he is not. He's stubborn, blunt, straight forward, and comes across as a bit of a jerk. He's not her type at all, and she can guarantee she's not his either, or is she? Could there be more to this sexy jock than what's on the surface?
-“I don’t want to know what my life is like without you.”
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3) by Sara Ney is a standalone enemies to lovers sports romance where opposites attract and sparks fly. This book kept me laughing throughout. It's a fun, flirty, playful story with hilarious banter and electric chemistry. I couldn't get enough of these two and the way they try to resist one another. I loved feisty Chandler, and how she comes out of her shell, and Tripp who unexpectedly stole my heart. This was my first book by Sara Ney, and I'm hooked. I now need to read the other books, especially Buzz's, and I can't wait for True's story up next in Hard Luck!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2UT14J7
April 13, 2021
Hard Love is less likeable for my taste compare to Hard Fall. I am surprise that Miss Ney did not do this book by her signature banter/ conversation.
I feel like both the hero and the heroine growing separetly, not together. Miss Ney too busy giving each character their self conversation and not much saying to each other. That is where I lost the chemistry.
I am bit disappointed but I do feel entertained listening to Trip's selfishness and dry humor.
3 stars
I feel like both the hero and the heroine growing separetly, not together. Miss Ney too busy giving each character their self conversation and not much saying to each other. That is where I lost the chemistry.
I am bit disappointed but I do feel entertained listening to Trip's selfishness and dry humor.
3 stars
December 12, 2021
⭐️ 3.25 Stars ⭐️
✰ Initial Reactions! ✰
This series has been a. . .weird one for me. I'm kind of a fan of Sara Ney's books (i mean this in the nicest way possible). I really enjoyed the first three books in her How to Date a Douchebag series and I really liked her standalone novel, Love, Sincerely, Yours , that she co-wrote with Meghan Quinn .
Which side-note I am so sad they never got together again to write Hunter's book because the two of them writing together = ✨m-a-g-i-c✨. So SARA NEY + MEGHAN QUINN if you ever for some reason read this review I'd very much appreciate if you wrote his book!
✰ ANYWHO ✰
What I'm trying to say in a very long-winded way is I have a soft spot for SARA NEY'S books. The couple of books by her that I ended up really liking always give me very fond feelings. NOW, that said. . .her newer books are VERY hit or miss for me. I'm not really sure what happened between The Failing Hours and Hard Fall (I DNF'd that bad boy hard). This new series, Trophy Boyfriends has just felt very off to me. Book one while nice wasn't my favorite . I think I was a little more lenient in my original review because, like I said, I've got a soft spot for SARA NEY . BUT, after not being able to finish Hard Fall and then finishing Hard Love and feeling conflicted. . .WELL. Let's see if I can sort out my feelings in this random review!
✰ What WORKED for me? ✰
✦ Chandler Westbrook - No not Chandler Bing ✦ For the most part I really liked Chandler. I thought she was a fun heroine that felt appropriately relatable. Her openness to actually date Tripp deserves major recognition because at first that dude was a tough nut to crack. Her character development was a bit out of nowhere or achieved relatively easily, but I could see what SARA NEY had in mind for her and I dug it. I enjoyed the funny conversations she had with her cousin Hollis (the heroine from the previous book).
“The part where we carved pumpkins or the part where we had sex?” “No one gives a shit about the pumpkins, Chandler!”
Ultimately Chandler felt very every-girl. What I mean is she felt very much like a person that I'm sure we've all met before. Someone who is dependable, rationale, mostly has their shit together, and just an all around nice person.
✦ The Humor - kinda ✦ Again, for the most part, I enjoyed the humor in HARD LOVE . When it hit, it hit. When it missed, it missed. However, there is one scene that REALLY cracked me up while simultaneously playing out one of my worst fears. There's a scene where Tripp and Chandler just randomly decide to have car sex. . .AS YOU DO. When they're finished they get a knock on the window from the friendly neighborhood cop. The ensuing reaction from Chandler would 100% be my reaction if this ever happened to me *knocks on wood* -
There’s a police officer at the door [. . .]
Jesus take the wheel and get me the hell out of here.
✦ Readability ✦ Once again, for the most part, SARA NEY'S books are very readable. They are quick, sweet, generally friends-to-lovers, fluffy books, and the heroes are more often than not goofy sweet dorks. HARD LOVE was no exception. It was very readable, and I had a fun time finishing it in one sitting.
✰ SO, what DIDN'T work for me? ✰
✦ Tripp's consistency, the romance, page-length, and teenagers ✦ Whew. . .that's a long list. HOWEVER, before I get into all these "negatives" I want to reiterate that I read this book in one sitting, and had a nice time while doing so! That said, I think I finally figured out WHY SARA NEY'S recent books just haven't been my favorites.
1. TRIPP / THE HEROES - I've had an issue with all of SARA NEY’S heroes (at least from this series). There’s something about them that just feels. . .off. I know for book one I just straight up didn’t like Noah and thought he was a spineless “woe-is-me” idiot. For book two I felt that Trace’s character changed DRASTICALLY from the first to the second book, and that he was a tat immature seeming for my taste. And then with Tripp his character was once again all over the place.
I personally just couldn’t get a handle on what his character was or who he was supposed to be. One minute he’s this a-hole kinda macho "mans man" who is just rude, and the next he’s goofy, super sweet, and almost virginal feeling?? But then the next minute he's all like "let's bang in my car girl" so idk. . .He just didn't feel consistent and I wasn't really sure about him. I think this quote sums up what SARA NEY was trying to do with Tripp's character -
Too macho for feelings, too many feelings to be macho.
Which would make sense if that was a theme in any book but this book. The guys in this series (and a lot of her other books) are VERY in touch with their feelings. I mean his brother is basically a more erratic version of Troy from Community ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
His dilemma didn't make sense considering who his family was. I highly doubt that anyone in his family was expecting him to be a macho "manly-man".
2. THE MEH ROMANCE - Yeah sooooo. . .the romance was meh. It felt very out of nowhere almost? Literally one paragraph Tripp is begrudgingly taking Chandler out for drinks, and then the next he's thinking "i want to kiss her. . .cool". LIKE WHAT?? How did we get from point A. to point B.?? Someone please explain that to me. And honestly besides that I just wasn't that invested in the romance. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't amazing. These two were cute together. Yeah they were cute. GO THEM!
“I want to help you find your dream job and achieve your goals.”
. . .okay i can admit that was a pretty sweet thing to say. . .
3. PAGE-LENGTH - Hmmmmmm. . .whenever I have this complaint I feel like such a tool because I'm very much NOT familiar with the writing process. I have no idea who/what determines the length of a book. However, that said, this whole series would have really benefitted from being a touch longer. It just feels like there's a lot crammed into these books, and then a rush to get to the ending. PLUS, with a longer page count the random drama thrown in at the end would've made a bit more sense/there could have been some build up.
4. THE ALL-KNOWING TEENAGE NEIGHBOR - Why do authors do that thing where they make teenagers/middle-schoolers/children wise beyond their years? WHY? I just. . .look I'm not saying you should discount everything that teenagers/kids say. In fact the youths of today are pretty awesome and will probably save this planet!
💥🤯#(1)800-TRUTH💥🤯
(Also, LOL, look at me talking like I still don't feel 16 half the time). HOWEVER, teenagers + emotional advice = 🛑 Like I'm sorry a 15 year old is not someone you should be going to for relationship advice. I was such a hot mess at 15, and I'm sure any relationship advice I gave out was trash. And yet Tripp's 15 year old neighbor Molly was talking like she was a 50 year old therapist.
“Is Molly your relationship coach?” “It does appear that way.”
Tripp basically has his "come-to-Jesus" moment because of talking with his teenaged neighbor. Dude. . .no. It just felt very unrealistic and a bit annoying. I wanted ➮ TRIPP to come to those conclusions on his own. I didn't want him to have that "epiphany" because he was lead to those answers by his 15 year old neighbor. Why couldn't he have gotten this advice from his brother/mom/dad/sister/an adult?? Idk usually I don't mind overly precocious teenagers/kids, but here it just felt weird.
✦ The Ending DRAMA ✦ The end drama of this book was. . .hilariously unnecessary?? Or more like. . .confusing. See Chandler and Tripp meet at Tripp's brothers wedding. When they're dancing Trip calls Chandler boring so she flips him.
it probably wasn't this epic but in my head it was
Due to the brothers being "famous-sports stars" the evidence is splashed all over the internet. So to do damage control his mom tells him to take her for drinks to make it look like they're together. NOW, Chandler on the way home from the date does/thinks this -
I accused you of planning everything that night and then let the subject drop.
The above quote is Chandler acknowledging that's what happened. She both thought and called out Tripp about his reasoning for asking her out. So, after they're actually officially dating Chandler goes to watch Tripp's game and sits with his parents. While sitting with Tripp's mom she casually confirms Chandler's suspicions -
‘Publicity stunt? What do you mean?’ And your mom said, ‘The Ivy dear, don’t you remember?’”
Now. I was expecting Chandler to just laugh it off and be like "lol yeah and he did such a bad job", but instead she gets VERY angry at Tripp.
WHY??? She literally acknowledged that she thought the date was a publicity stunt. SO WHY IS SHE ANGRY AT HIM??? Even Tripp is hella confused -
“Honestly, I have no idea why you’re mad. You brought it up that day in front of your townhouse after leaving The Ivy, then you let it go so I figured you weren’t bothered by it. I thought we were having fun.”
I'm sorry but I'm team Tripp on this one. This ending drama was very unnecessary and confused me greatly. . .*sighs deeply* but I guess you can't have a romance without unnecessary drama for dramas sake.
✰ In Closing! ✰
You know it's super funny because despite all the issues I had with HARD LOVE I still did enjoy myself. This isn't a book that's going to set the world on fire, but it's a sweet, easy, quick romance that was fun to read! And look. . .I'm totally gonna read the next book in the series.
make that 2020
For some reason SARA NEY is an author who I will always check out. Unlike her contemporary MEGHAN QUINN I still get a bit excited for her new releases. Her books are the equivalent of candy and I'm OKAY with that. So, even though I spent most of this review basically shading this book I still had a fun time. I think if you're a fan of SARA NEY you'll really like this one. If not? Well if you're looking for a quick fun read then check out HARD LOVE .
✰ Initial Reactions! ✰
This series has been a. . .weird one for me. I'm kind of a fan of Sara Ney's books (i mean this in the nicest way possible). I really enjoyed the first three books in her How to Date a Douchebag series and I really liked her standalone novel, Love, Sincerely, Yours , that she co-wrote with Meghan Quinn .
Which side-note I am so sad they never got together again to write Hunter's book because the two of them writing together = ✨m-a-g-i-c✨. So SARA NEY + MEGHAN QUINN if you ever for some reason read this review I'd very much appreciate if you wrote his book!
✰ ANYWHO ✰
What I'm trying to say in a very long-winded way is I have a soft spot for SARA NEY'S books. The couple of books by her that I ended up really liking always give me very fond feelings. NOW, that said. . .her newer books are VERY hit or miss for me. I'm not really sure what happened between The Failing Hours and Hard Fall (I DNF'd that bad boy hard). This new series, Trophy Boyfriends has just felt very off to me. Book one while nice wasn't my favorite . I think I was a little more lenient in my original review because, like I said, I've got a soft spot for SARA NEY . BUT, after not being able to finish Hard Fall and then finishing Hard Love and feeling conflicted. . .WELL. Let's see if I can sort out my feelings in this random review!
✰ What WORKED for me? ✰
✦ Chandler Westbrook - No not Chandler Bing ✦ For the most part I really liked Chandler. I thought she was a fun heroine that felt appropriately relatable. Her openness to actually date Tripp deserves major recognition because at first that dude was a tough nut to crack. Her character development was a bit out of nowhere or achieved relatively easily, but I could see what SARA NEY had in mind for her and I dug it. I enjoyed the funny conversations she had with her cousin Hollis (the heroine from the previous book).
“The part where we carved pumpkins or the part where we had sex?” “No one gives a shit about the pumpkins, Chandler!”
Ultimately Chandler felt very every-girl. What I mean is she felt very much like a person that I'm sure we've all met before. Someone who is dependable, rationale, mostly has their shit together, and just an all around nice person.
✦ The Humor - kinda ✦ Again, for the most part, I enjoyed the humor in HARD LOVE . When it hit, it hit. When it missed, it missed. However, there is one scene that REALLY cracked me up while simultaneously playing out one of my worst fears. There's a scene where Tripp and Chandler just randomly decide to have car sex. . .AS YOU DO. When they're finished they get a knock on the window from the friendly neighborhood cop. The ensuing reaction from Chandler would 100% be my reaction if this ever happened to me *knocks on wood* -
There’s a police officer at the door [. . .]
Jesus take the wheel and get me the hell out of here.
✦ Readability ✦ Once again, for the most part, SARA NEY'S books are very readable. They are quick, sweet, generally friends-to-lovers, fluffy books, and the heroes are more often than not goofy sweet dorks. HARD LOVE was no exception. It was very readable, and I had a fun time finishing it in one sitting.
✰ SO, what DIDN'T work for me? ✰
✦ Tripp's consistency, the romance, page-length, and teenagers ✦ Whew. . .that's a long list. HOWEVER, before I get into all these "negatives" I want to reiterate that I read this book in one sitting, and had a nice time while doing so! That said, I think I finally figured out WHY SARA NEY'S recent books just haven't been my favorites.
1. TRIPP / THE HEROES - I've had an issue with all of SARA NEY’S heroes (at least from this series). There’s something about them that just feels. . .off. I know for book one I just straight up didn’t like Noah and thought he was a spineless “woe-is-me” idiot. For book two I felt that Trace’s character changed DRASTICALLY from the first to the second book, and that he was a tat immature seeming for my taste. And then with Tripp his character was once again all over the place.
I personally just couldn’t get a handle on what his character was or who he was supposed to be. One minute he’s this a-hole kinda macho "mans man" who is just rude, and the next he’s goofy, super sweet, and almost virginal feeling?? But then the next minute he's all like "let's bang in my car girl" so idk. . .He just didn't feel consistent and I wasn't really sure about him. I think this quote sums up what SARA NEY was trying to do with Tripp's character -
Too macho for feelings, too many feelings to be macho.
Which would make sense if that was a theme in any book but this book. The guys in this series (and a lot of her other books) are VERY in touch with their feelings. I mean his brother is basically a more erratic version of Troy from Community ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
His dilemma didn't make sense considering who his family was. I highly doubt that anyone in his family was expecting him to be a macho "manly-man".
2. THE MEH ROMANCE - Yeah sooooo. . .the romance was meh. It felt very out of nowhere almost? Literally one paragraph Tripp is begrudgingly taking Chandler out for drinks, and then the next he's thinking "i want to kiss her. . .cool". LIKE WHAT?? How did we get from point A. to point B.?? Someone please explain that to me. And honestly besides that I just wasn't that invested in the romance. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't amazing. These two were cute together. Yeah they were cute. GO THEM!
“I want to help you find your dream job and achieve your goals.”
. . .okay i can admit that was a pretty sweet thing to say. . .
3. PAGE-LENGTH - Hmmmmmm. . .whenever I have this complaint I feel like such a tool because I'm very much NOT familiar with the writing process. I have no idea who/what determines the length of a book. However, that said, this whole series would have really benefitted from being a touch longer. It just feels like there's a lot crammed into these books, and then a rush to get to the ending. PLUS, with a longer page count the random drama thrown in at the end would've made a bit more sense/there could have been some build up.
4. THE ALL-KNOWING TEENAGE NEIGHBOR - Why do authors do that thing where they make teenagers/middle-schoolers/children wise beyond their years? WHY? I just. . .look I'm not saying you should discount everything that teenagers/kids say. In fact the youths of today are pretty awesome and will probably save this planet!
💥🤯#(1)800-TRUTH💥🤯
(Also, LOL, look at me talking like I still don't feel 16 half the time). HOWEVER, teenagers + emotional advice = 🛑 Like I'm sorry a 15 year old is not someone you should be going to for relationship advice. I was such a hot mess at 15, and I'm sure any relationship advice I gave out was trash. And yet Tripp's 15 year old neighbor Molly was talking like she was a 50 year old therapist.
“Is Molly your relationship coach?” “It does appear that way.”
Tripp basically has his "come-to-Jesus" moment because of talking with his teenaged neighbor. Dude. . .no. It just felt very unrealistic and a bit annoying. I wanted ➮ TRIPP to come to those conclusions on his own. I didn't want him to have that "epiphany" because he was lead to those answers by his 15 year old neighbor. Why couldn't he have gotten this advice from his brother/mom/dad/sister/an adult?? Idk usually I don't mind overly precocious teenagers/kids, but here it just felt weird.
✦ The Ending DRAMA ✦ The end drama of this book was. . .hilariously unnecessary?? Or more like. . .confusing. See Chandler and Tripp meet at Tripp's brothers wedding. When they're dancing Trip calls Chandler boring so she flips him.
it probably wasn't this epic but in my head it was
Due to the brothers being "famous-sports stars" the evidence is splashed all over the internet. So to do damage control his mom tells him to take her for drinks to make it look like they're together. NOW, Chandler on the way home from the date does/thinks this -
I accused you of planning everything that night and then let the subject drop.
The above quote is Chandler acknowledging that's what happened. She both thought and called out Tripp about his reasoning for asking her out. So, after they're actually officially dating Chandler goes to watch Tripp's game and sits with his parents. While sitting with Tripp's mom she casually confirms Chandler's suspicions -
‘Publicity stunt? What do you mean?’ And your mom said, ‘The Ivy dear, don’t you remember?’”
Now. I was expecting Chandler to just laugh it off and be like "lol yeah and he did such a bad job", but instead she gets VERY angry at Tripp.
WHY??? She literally acknowledged that she thought the date was a publicity stunt. SO WHY IS SHE ANGRY AT HIM??? Even Tripp is hella confused -
“Honestly, I have no idea why you’re mad. You brought it up that day in front of your townhouse after leaving The Ivy, then you let it go so I figured you weren’t bothered by it. I thought we were having fun.”
I'm sorry but I'm team Tripp on this one. This ending drama was very unnecessary and confused me greatly. . .*sighs deeply* but I guess you can't have a romance without unnecessary drama for dramas sake.
✰ In Closing! ✰
You know it's super funny because despite all the issues I had with HARD LOVE I still did enjoy myself. This isn't a book that's going to set the world on fire, but it's a sweet, easy, quick romance that was fun to read! And look. . .I'm totally gonna read the next book in the series.
make that 2020
For some reason SARA NEY is an author who I will always check out. Unlike her contemporary MEGHAN QUINN I still get a bit excited for her new releases. Her books are the equivalent of candy and I'm OKAY with that. So, even though I spent most of this review basically shading this book I still had a fun time. I think if you're a fan of SARA NEY you'll really like this one. If not? Well if you're looking for a quick fun read then check out HARD LOVE .
November 14, 2020
The author most definitely lit the lamp with this amazing Tic-Tac-Toe story. It landed on my kindle, and I just wanted a short peak, few lines, just to get the feeling, but I ended up devouring it in one sitting (instead of sleeping). I was engaged immediately from the first lines, and couldn’t talk myself into putting it down, not matter how late in the night it was. I went from smiling, to grinning and straight out to laughing out loud. Frist book from this author, definitely not the last, I loved her style, so gifted and imaginative.
A grumpy, famous football player, with a huge ego and a girl who does not fit into a stereotype at all .... witty and sexy back and forth, a few unusual dates and incredible chemistry, a meddling family, and a witty teenager… what more could you wish for?
Tripp –our hero, hard around the edges, a total jerk and so immature and clueless, yet irresistibly adorable. A total meathead, primarily interested in his sports career and judging everyone according to his own, twisted criteria and most definitely blunt as a hammer, nothing polished about him, and definitely no interest in intellectual culture or good manners. Totally fits the stereotype of football players, right? Yet, he is so sweet and interesting character that captures all of your attention from the first moment, especially with his inner dialogues which were totally hilarious.
Chandler was absolutely awesome. A well-bred young lady, trying to be independent and self-achieved yet unable to escape the influence of her rich and bossy family. Simple and shy, it could be said boring, yet sassy enough to rock Tripp’s world and bring him on his knees, or literally on his ass. She definitely is his true match in every possible way.
And their relationship…OMG... absolutely fantastic. From the harsh beginning, to the meddling of his family, to the funny wooing, to their passionate encounters…everything is absolutely crazy and hilarious.
The supporting characters were exceptional and perfect in more than one way, they fully complement the story, making it more appealing and unique. Every single member of his crazy family is absolutely amazing, and Molly - the nosy teenager is so refreshing and unique.
If you love a sports romance that has humor, sex, funny banter and two totally opposite characters that are perfect together, then you must read this one. Brilliantly written that will make you laugh and want to dwell longer into their world, savoring every little detail that makes it absolutely perfect for an u amazing afternoon read.
A grumpy, famous football player, with a huge ego and a girl who does not fit into a stereotype at all .... witty and sexy back and forth, a few unusual dates and incredible chemistry, a meddling family, and a witty teenager… what more could you wish for?
Tripp –our hero, hard around the edges, a total jerk and so immature and clueless, yet irresistibly adorable. A total meathead, primarily interested in his sports career and judging everyone according to his own, twisted criteria and most definitely blunt as a hammer, nothing polished about him, and definitely no interest in intellectual culture or good manners. Totally fits the stereotype of football players, right? Yet, he is so sweet and interesting character that captures all of your attention from the first moment, especially with his inner dialogues which were totally hilarious.
Chandler was absolutely awesome. A well-bred young lady, trying to be independent and self-achieved yet unable to escape the influence of her rich and bossy family. Simple and shy, it could be said boring, yet sassy enough to rock Tripp’s world and bring him on his knees, or literally on his ass. She definitely is his true match in every possible way.
And their relationship…OMG... absolutely fantastic. From the harsh beginning, to the meddling of his family, to the funny wooing, to their passionate encounters…everything is absolutely crazy and hilarious.
The supporting characters were exceptional and perfect in more than one way, they fully complement the story, making it more appealing and unique. Every single member of his crazy family is absolutely amazing, and Molly - the nosy teenager is so refreshing and unique.
If you love a sports romance that has humor, sex, funny banter and two totally opposite characters that are perfect together, then you must read this one. Brilliantly written that will make you laugh and want to dwell longer into their world, savoring every little detail that makes it absolutely perfect for an u amazing afternoon read.
December 27, 2020
2.5 Stars 🌟
Hard Love is book 3 in the Trophy Boyfriend's series but can be read as a standalone. This follows Chandler and Tripp and prior to reading this I was very much looking forward to this book because I have enjoyed the 2 previous books but sadly this one fell flat for me and the main reason was the hero Tripp.
I think I set my hopes a little too high for this one as I absolutely loved his brother, Trace's book and thought that might be the case for this one but Tripp was extremely lack luster, slightly rude for no real good reason and honestly I didn't feel his connection or love for Chandler. Their first romantic interaction felt weird and odly staged and not at all natural.
The saving grace for me was the snipets and scenes involving the Wallace family and my fav Trace 💕💕
The story was still enjoyable enough for me to finish but it was also nothing new and so far my least favourite in this series. I am still curious how the next book will go because the little sneak peak at the end was intriguing.
《my reviewing system is in my bio for those interested on how I choose to rate books》
Hard Love is book 3 in the Trophy Boyfriend's series but can be read as a standalone. This follows Chandler and Tripp and prior to reading this I was very much looking forward to this book because I have enjoyed the 2 previous books but sadly this one fell flat for me and the main reason was the hero Tripp.
I think I set my hopes a little too high for this one as I absolutely loved his brother, Trace's book and thought that might be the case for this one but Tripp was extremely lack luster, slightly rude for no real good reason and honestly I didn't feel his connection or love for Chandler. Their first romantic interaction felt weird and odly staged and not at all natural.
The saving grace for me was the snipets and scenes involving the Wallace family and my fav Trace 💕💕
The story was still enjoyable enough for me to finish but it was also nothing new and so far my least favourite in this series. I am still curious how the next book will go because the little sneak peak at the end was intriguing.
《my reviewing system is in my bio for those interested on how I choose to rate books》
November 18, 2020
3.5 stars
Hard Love is a book with a story I didn't see coming. I truly had a great time reading it. Most of the time I had a big smile on my face.
What I love most about Hard Love are these unique and flawed characters. They are intriguing and have great chemistry. Tripp surprised me the most. It's refreshing reading about such a broody and moody athlete. And as much as he might come across as unapproachable, he has a good heart and just can't help himself.
Chandler is just great. I love how naiv she might come across, sheltered and demure but can be strong when she needs to stand up for herself and shoves right back. She gave as much as she got, striving for independence.
Tripp and Chandler are an unusual but great match you didn't see coming. I really enjoyed their kind of disastrous encounters, needing some meddling to finally finding their HEA. I especially loved the meddling of a certain teenager, which hopefully will get her own book someday. I think she deserves it. I love her wit with just 15 and want to see what woman she becomes.
Hard Love is a funny and heartwarming love story, full of hilarious banter and swoony moments. This funny sports romance will absolutely brighten your mood!
Hard Love is a book with a story I didn't see coming. I truly had a great time reading it. Most of the time I had a big smile on my face.
What I love most about Hard Love are these unique and flawed characters. They are intriguing and have great chemistry. Tripp surprised me the most. It's refreshing reading about such a broody and moody athlete. And as much as he might come across as unapproachable, he has a good heart and just can't help himself.
Chandler is just great. I love how naiv she might come across, sheltered and demure but can be strong when she needs to stand up for herself and shoves right back. She gave as much as she got, striving for independence.
Tripp and Chandler are an unusual but great match you didn't see coming. I really enjoyed their kind of disastrous encounters, needing some meddling to finally finding their HEA. I especially loved the meddling of a certain teenager, which hopefully will get her own book someday. I think she deserves it. I love her wit with just 15 and want to see what woman she becomes.
Hard Love is a funny and heartwarming love story, full of hilarious banter and swoony moments. This funny sports romance will absolutely brighten your mood!
Read
September 1, 2025I'm not convinced by Tripp's sudden 180 🤷♀️
November 27, 2020
Have I mentioned I love Sara Ney? Well I do. This book had me laughing out loud. Tears in my eyes. In love with Tripp and his inner dialogue. Tripp is rough. Rough around the edges and just a jerk. He meets his match in Chandler. She’s not a groupie going after his money, in fact she doesn’t want to be around his arrogant self at all honestly. Hilarity ensues.
I didn’t plan on binge reading this, but let’s face it, we all knew I wouldn’t be able to put it down. There were parts that had a pride and prejudice vibe and I’m such a sucker for a broody man that everything about this book just WORKED for me. Tripp is possibly my favorite of this series.. and I thought no one could top Noah, I stand corrected. Chandler handed his crap right back to him over and over and it was adorable to see how dumbstruck he was. I loved this book and this man learning how to grow up and show his emotions, albeit grudgingly.
I didn’t plan on binge reading this, but let’s face it, we all knew I wouldn’t be able to put it down. There were parts that had a pride and prejudice vibe and I’m such a sucker for a broody man that everything about this book just WORKED for me. Tripp is possibly my favorite of this series.. and I thought no one could top Noah, I stand corrected. Chandler handed his crap right back to him over and over and it was adorable to see how dumbstruck he was. I loved this book and this man learning how to grow up and show his emotions, albeit grudgingly.
November 23, 2020
Once again Sara delivers a fun-filled romance. Between the antics with Buzz and Tripp, to the 'helpful' meddling of Molly (Tripps teenage next door neibour and dog walker), we are kept wanting more of the hilarity.
Tripp isn't the easiest guy to love. He has rather the reputation as a grump. Although a challenge Chandler brings out his softer side. Chandler is perceived to be ordinary. However, as Tripp finds out there is more to Chandler than first meets to eye.
If you are after a book that will bring a smile to your face go and get yourself a copy of Hard Love.
Tripp isn't the easiest guy to love. He has rather the reputation as a grump. Although a challenge Chandler brings out his softer side. Chandler is perceived to be ordinary. However, as Tripp finds out there is more to Chandler than first meets to eye.
If you are after a book that will bring a smile to your face go and get yourself a copy of Hard Love.
November 21, 2020
I’m tempted to give this 2 stars, but since I liked the beginning I’ll keep it at 3. Sara Ney has written some of my favorite books, but recently a lot of her new books have felt sort of unfinished. In this book, all we get is them having a confession of LIKING each other and wanting to see where things go and then immediately the “epilogue” which doesn’t even have the mcs in it and is setting up for the next book which is really frustrating and annoying and makes me not want to read her future books if they’re going to leave me so unsatisfied like this
January 18, 2021
Not entirely convincing and missing some of the punch from Ney.
December 10, 2022
Sara Ney where have you gone?
I still pick her book for Zeke & Violet and Reth and Laurel and the 1st 3 books of the jock’s series
Mollie alone deserves 1 star sweet girl🥰
MC s 1/2 stars each
Grumpy sunshine trope too hyperbolic
Quick read shallow no side characters
1/2 stars for doggie 🐶
MEH
I still pick her book for Zeke & Violet and Reth and Laurel and the 1st 3 books of the jock’s series
Mollie alone deserves 1 star sweet girl🥰
MC s 1/2 stars each
Grumpy sunshine trope too hyperbolic
Quick read shallow no side characters
1/2 stars for doggie 🐶
MEH
November 19, 2020
„I don’t want to know what my life is like without you.”
Stories like this one are the unfettered entertainment. I’ve said more than once that Sara Ney is one of my favorite authors and that her type of humor can get me out of any book slump and put a smile on my face, but that’s an understatement. Books like Hard Love are so hilarious that you'll roar with laughter. It's the rom-com in the purest form, filled with funny situations, loveable characters and a lot of steam!
I was looking forward to the story of the other Wallace brother and Tripp didn't disappoint! This grumpy jerk cracked me up. Even though this guy is downright rude and obnoxious, there's just something about him that made him adorable. I couldn't wait to see how he's gonna be put in his place and gahhh, it was comical! Tripp had some manners to learn and maturity to reach, but the outcome was worth his struggle.
Chandler is just great. Inconspicuous, demure, but when it comes to push, she shoves right back. I loved that she gives as much as she gets and that despite the fact that she comed from a wealthy family and had practically the world at her feet, she strove for independence.
These two were a disaster from the start. However, with each encounter they grew fond of each other and it was as swoon-worthy as it was hot. They needed a little meddling from their families to overcome some difficulties, but eventually they found their happily ever after and it melted my heart!
Hard Love is a funny and heartwarming love story about two opposites. It’s full of hilarious banter, Ney’s characteristic snark, steamy scenes and swoony moments. If you’re looking for a funny sports romance that will brighten your mood, this one is for you!
Stories like this one are the unfettered entertainment. I’ve said more than once that Sara Ney is one of my favorite authors and that her type of humor can get me out of any book slump and put a smile on my face, but that’s an understatement. Books like Hard Love are so hilarious that you'll roar with laughter. It's the rom-com in the purest form, filled with funny situations, loveable characters and a lot of steam!
I was looking forward to the story of the other Wallace brother and Tripp didn't disappoint! This grumpy jerk cracked me up. Even though this guy is downright rude and obnoxious, there's just something about him that made him adorable. I couldn't wait to see how he's gonna be put in his place and gahhh, it was comical! Tripp had some manners to learn and maturity to reach, but the outcome was worth his struggle.
Chandler is just great. Inconspicuous, demure, but when it comes to push, she shoves right back. I loved that she gives as much as she gets and that despite the fact that she comed from a wealthy family and had practically the world at her feet, she strove for independence.
These two were a disaster from the start. However, with each encounter they grew fond of each other and it was as swoon-worthy as it was hot. They needed a little meddling from their families to overcome some difficulties, but eventually they found their happily ever after and it melted my heart!
Hard Love is a funny and heartwarming love story about two opposites. It’s full of hilarious banter, Ney’s characteristic snark, steamy scenes and swoony moments. If you’re looking for a funny sports romance that will brighten your mood, this one is for you!
December 3, 2020
After finishing Hard Fall, I had this idea of how Tripp was going to be. I really liked Buzz and all of his quirkiness and I had an impression that Tripp was going to be just like him but maybe more competitive. I also thought Buzz was going to be more present in this story. And I was wrong on all counts. And i kind of missed Buzz and his kind of crazy.
Because to be honest Tripp was kind of hard to relate to. He was so moody and closed off and came across as a bit of a selfish jerk. Luckily for me the book was told in dual point of view and we got to see that he was just a socially awkward idiot.
Chandler wasn't who I would have expected for Tripp but I warmed up to her and I loved that she was her own kind of socially awkward. And I really loved that she held Tripp accountable for his actions.
Chewy was super cute, but the star of the show was Tripp's neighbour, Molly. She was hilarious. And having her write the epilogue was perfect but now I am dying to get my hands on the next book in the series.
Because to be honest Tripp was kind of hard to relate to. He was so moody and closed off and came across as a bit of a selfish jerk. Luckily for me the book was told in dual point of view and we got to see that he was just a socially awkward idiot.
Chandler wasn't who I would have expected for Tripp but I warmed up to her and I loved that she was her own kind of socially awkward. And I really loved that she held Tripp accountable for his actions.
Chewy was super cute, but the star of the show was Tripp's neighbour, Molly. She was hilarious. And having her write the epilogue was perfect but now I am dying to get my hands on the next book in the series.
November 16, 2020
This was such a fun read. A little silly at times, but overall, I loved it! Tripp and Chandler was such a fun pair to read!
Tripp is Buzz's brother (Hard Fall). They are constantly competing with each other. Tripp is, for lack of a better word, a jerk. I don't think he means to, he just doesn't go out of his way to please anyone or consider anyone's feelings...at all.
Chandler is Hollis's cousin (also from Hard Fall) and is moving into Hollis's place since Hollis is moving in with Buzz. Chandler IS a people pleaser ... except for when she's had enough of Tripp.
These two together are fun and hot when Tripp isn't being an a**.
Also, I am dying over here at the teaser at the end for True's story (Tripp & Buzz's sister).
Tripp is Buzz's brother (Hard Fall). They are constantly competing with each other. Tripp is, for lack of a better word, a jerk. I don't think he means to, he just doesn't go out of his way to please anyone or consider anyone's feelings...at all.
Chandler is Hollis's cousin (also from Hard Fall) and is moving into Hollis's place since Hollis is moving in with Buzz. Chandler IS a people pleaser ... except for when she's had enough of Tripp.
These two together are fun and hot when Tripp isn't being an a**.
Also, I am dying over here at the teaser at the end for True's story (Tripp & Buzz's sister).
December 12, 2020
Enemies to lover romance
I did like this story, but my favorite is still the second book with Hollis and Trace. Trace is just too funny and sometimes has verbal diarrhea. Chandler is Hollis's cousin who is just back from Europe. Chandler and Tripp meet during Hollis and Trace wedding festivities. They do not hit it off. In fact, it takes Tripp's fifteen year old nosy neighbor to try to get them together.
I did like this story, but my favorite is still the second book with Hollis and Trace. Trace is just too funny and sometimes has verbal diarrhea. Chandler is Hollis's cousin who is just back from Europe. Chandler and Tripp meet during Hollis and Trace wedding festivities. They do not hit it off. In fact, it takes Tripp's fifteen year old nosy neighbor to try to get them together.
December 21, 2020
It was okay. I read this quickly ... as I like the authors writing, but the story was meh. Characters weren’t my fav in this. Win some & some ya don’t - but I still am so glad I read it.
November 25, 2020
This book reminded me of R.L. Mathewson’s Neighbor from Hell series.
Hard Love is book #3 of the Trophy Boyfriends series by Sara Ney a USA Today Bestselling author which delivers the com in the rom-com. The character’s antics in this story are hilarious!
Tripp Francis Wallace is a cantankerous football player who isn’t looking for love and is only happy when he’s with his dog Chewy (not named after Star Wars’ Chewbacca). Unfortunately for him, his well-meaning but meddlesome family thinks otherwise and in determined to push him and his brother’s wife’s cousin Chandler together.
Even though Chandler Westbrook is the only child of a well to do family, she has her feet on the ground and is determined to make her own way. She’s witty yet tends to hover on the shy side, smart and capable, especially around Tripp who she more than once flips him on his behind quit literally.
Tripp and Chandler meet during the various activities organized for his brother and her cousin’s upcoming wedding, and initially rub each other the wrong way, yet after some karate shenanigans, some family interference, and a precocious and nosy dog sitter, Tripp and Chandler end up spending time together during which they realize they like each other.
The story had humorous moments when it reminded me so, so much of R. L. Mathewson’s Neighbor from Hell series where some characters were socially inept and they really didn’t care. Which made them even more funny. In Hard Love’s case I’m talking about Tripp, who comes off as infuriating and impolite, yet hides a very sweet side. Coupled with Chandler, they make a cute couple.
Their relationship goes through many bumps and bruises, a lot of texts with family are exchanged and feel like they’re on their way to a happy ending, but the end feels a bit abrupt. I’m sure Sara Ney fans will love to reconnect with previous couples and get Tripp’s story.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Wildfire Marketing Solutions. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
Hard Love is book #3 of the Trophy Boyfriends series by Sara Ney a USA Today Bestselling author which delivers the com in the rom-com. The character’s antics in this story are hilarious!
Tripp Francis Wallace is a cantankerous football player who isn’t looking for love and is only happy when he’s with his dog Chewy (not named after Star Wars’ Chewbacca). Unfortunately for him, his well-meaning but meddlesome family thinks otherwise and in determined to push him and his brother’s wife’s cousin Chandler together.
Even though Chandler Westbrook is the only child of a well to do family, she has her feet on the ground and is determined to make her own way. She’s witty yet tends to hover on the shy side, smart and capable, especially around Tripp who she more than once flips him on his behind quit literally.
Tripp and Chandler meet during the various activities organized for his brother and her cousin’s upcoming wedding, and initially rub each other the wrong way, yet after some karate shenanigans, some family interference, and a precocious and nosy dog sitter, Tripp and Chandler end up spending time together during which they realize they like each other.
The story had humorous moments when it reminded me so, so much of R. L. Mathewson’s Neighbor from Hell series where some characters were socially inept and they really didn’t care. Which made them even more funny. In Hard Love’s case I’m talking about Tripp, who comes off as infuriating and impolite, yet hides a very sweet side. Coupled with Chandler, they make a cute couple.
Their relationship goes through many bumps and bruises, a lot of texts with family are exchanged and feel like they’re on their way to a happy ending, but the end feels a bit abrupt. I’m sure Sara Ney fans will love to reconnect with previous couples and get Tripp’s story.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Wildfire Marketing Solutions. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
November 29, 2020
2.5 stars
This was almost a 2 star read for me but I bumped it up because of the family dinner (which was hilarious) and Molly (Tripp's neighbor).
Here we have Tripp, a professional football player who, quite frankly, is a total douchebag through MOST of the book. He meets Chandler, the heroine, at his brother's wedding festivities. His brother is marrying Chandler's cousin. Look, I love a grumpy hero. But I prefer them to not be an asshole to the heroine through the whole book. I understand that Tripp's personality was meant to come off emotionally stunted and closed off but this just went a little too far for me and I found myself annoyed with him through 80% of the book. And when their HEA comes around, it just didn't seem finished to me. I honestly can't say I have much insight into their actual relationship and the steamy bits we get seem so disconnected. I didn't feel like there was much passion between them.
Chandler works for her father but wishes she did something else and is described as shy and boring at the beginning. So I was thinking o great...I am not going to like this character. Turns out she is definitely neither of those things and I did really like her. However, what happened to her dream of becoming a publicist? That part of her story just fell flat.
Maybe an epilogue that involved Tripp and Chandler would have been appropriate. I liked the epilogue we did get because it sets up for the next book but Tripp and Chandler's story didn't feel pulled together.
Sara Ney writes some cute stories and i'll continue to read her books. Sometimes her books are great, some leave me wanting more from the story and the couple. Unfortunately, this one was the latter this time.
This was almost a 2 star read for me but I bumped it up because of the family dinner (which was hilarious) and Molly (Tripp's neighbor).
Here we have Tripp, a professional football player who, quite frankly, is a total douchebag through MOST of the book. He meets Chandler, the heroine, at his brother's wedding festivities. His brother is marrying Chandler's cousin. Look, I love a grumpy hero. But I prefer them to not be an asshole to the heroine through the whole book. I understand that Tripp's personality was meant to come off emotionally stunted and closed off but this just went a little too far for me and I found myself annoyed with him through 80% of the book. And when their HEA comes around, it just didn't seem finished to me. I honestly can't say I have much insight into their actual relationship and the steamy bits we get seem so disconnected. I didn't feel like there was much passion between them.
Chandler works for her father but wishes she did something else and is described as shy and boring at the beginning. So I was thinking o great...I am not going to like this character. Turns out she is definitely neither of those things and I did really like her. However, what happened to her dream of becoming a publicist? That part of her story just fell flat.
Maybe an epilogue that involved Tripp and Chandler would have been appropriate. I liked the epilogue we did get because it sets up for the next book but Tripp and Chandler's story didn't feel pulled together.
Sara Ney writes some cute stories and i'll continue to read her books. Sometimes her books are great, some leave me wanting more from the story and the couple. Unfortunately, this one was the latter this time.
November 21, 2020
3.5 stars
Ehh this was kind of disappointing. I was excited for it because I love a grumpy hero and shy heroine trope but it all felt a little rushed.
The conflict was kind of stupid because she got mad at something it seemed like she already knew about?? Like I get what the author was trying to achieve but it wasn’t communicated very well. Maybe it would have worked if she had never mentioned suspecting their first date was fake earlier in the book? I did think the makeup scene was cute though (even though we didn’t get an “I love you”).
I also was really not a fan of Molly (Tripp’s 15y/o neighbour and dog walker who becomes like his relationship coach). It was kind of creepy that he would spend time alone with her in his house. There were other characters (like any of his family members) who could have played that role and there were too many scenes with them I ended up skimming.
I did like the set up of the romance, the chemistry and banter between Tripp and Chandler and I always enjoy Sara Ney’s writing (the main reason this still gets 3.5 stars), but overall this is one of her weaker books.
Ehh this was kind of disappointing. I was excited for it because I love a grumpy hero and shy heroine trope but it all felt a little rushed.
The conflict was kind of stupid because she got mad at something it seemed like she already knew about?? Like I get what the author was trying to achieve but it wasn’t communicated very well. Maybe it would have worked if she had never mentioned suspecting their first date was fake earlier in the book? I did think the makeup scene was cute though (even though we didn’t get an “I love you”).
I also was really not a fan of Molly (Tripp’s 15y/o neighbour and dog walker who becomes like his relationship coach). It was kind of creepy that he would spend time alone with her in his house. There were other characters (like any of his family members) who could have played that role and there were too many scenes with them I ended up skimming.
I did like the set up of the romance, the chemistry and banter between Tripp and Chandler and I always enjoy Sara Ney’s writing (the main reason this still gets 3.5 stars), but overall this is one of her weaker books.
January 16, 2021
Oh my, this book is funny. I loved Tripp, he was the most socially awkward character I have read in a long time, but also completely hilarity the same time. The banter with his brother is just the best. When his whole family get together, the love hate relationships around the dinner table are the funniest.
Chandler, she is really sweet, very quiet and unassuming but also lovable. Molly, well, she was just the most unexpected surprise of the book, a totally brilliant side character who I actually really adored, she was super funny and the way Tripp reacted to her was pure brilliance.
This is a book well worth reading, but make sure you read the first 2 books in the Trophy Boyfriends series first.
Chandler, she is really sweet, very quiet and unassuming but also lovable. Molly, well, she was just the most unexpected surprise of the book, a totally brilliant side character who I actually really adored, she was super funny and the way Tripp reacted to her was pure brilliance.
This is a book well worth reading, but make sure you read the first 2 books in the Trophy Boyfriends series first.
November 5, 2022
Distracting toxic masculinity nonsense ev-er-y-where. Multiple people call the MMC a “pussy” unironically after a woman who is professionally trained in martial arts and self defense was able to knock him off his feet. It’s very “one in eight men think they can beat Serena Williams in a tennis match” level of stupid. I’m also deeply horrified about the grown man & fifteen year old neighbor girl’s friendship where she thinks it’s appropriate to be over at his home constantly unsupervised and discuss adult topics of conversation and the MMC doesn’t realize immediately that this is an issue. Couple all that BS with the stomach turning grossness that is using a dirty gym sock a post-sex panty liner and this was just terrible all the way down.
November 18, 2020
Awkward romance at its best! And that's a compliment, by the way. Ney always writes such smile-inducing rom coms, filled with banter, playful moments, and scenes that you will not find anywhere else. This romance isn't super deep, but it's fun from start to finish. I devoured it at an alarming rate and didn't even realize that I was doing it. This hero will make you alternate between rolling your eyes and swooning (and possibly wanting to smack him upside the head), and this authentic, "boring" heroine will have you surprised by her fire. It's got zero angst and a ton of humor, so if you're looking for a light, playful romance, you'll find it here.
The story follows Tripp, a pro football player who would make a terrible boyfriend. The only girls he ever meets are not the kind you'd bring home to your mother, so no one ever calls him out on his bad behavior. Tripp is grouchy, macho, and unwilling to put up with anyone who isn't worthy of his time, so he can come across as a bit of a douchebag. But if you take a closer look, this moody player is actually a big softie, and not nearly as opposed to a relationship as it might seem at first glance. When he meets Chandler, Tripp is wildly unprepared for the impact this seemingly serious, sweet woman will have on his life.
I'm not sure that I've ever read a book where it was distaste at first sight. These two aren't exactly enemies, but they certainly don't see each other as love interests. It's only after a series of run-ins that they actually take the time to get to know each other, and the progression was immensely fascinating to read. I loved Tripp; he can definitely come off as a jerk, but he's really a big teddy bear, and I appreciated that he wasn't some cocky player. The first steamy scene certainly proved that, lol. I was laughing and smiling from start to finish, and I loved how unique this felt. Don't go into this one expecting some deep, meaningful romance; this is pure fun. And it does it well. I was lucky enough to receive an early copy via Wildfire Marketing, and am voluntarily leaving a review of this low angst rom com.
The story follows Tripp, a pro football player who would make a terrible boyfriend. The only girls he ever meets are not the kind you'd bring home to your mother, so no one ever calls him out on his bad behavior. Tripp is grouchy, macho, and unwilling to put up with anyone who isn't worthy of his time, so he can come across as a bit of a douchebag. But if you take a closer look, this moody player is actually a big softie, and not nearly as opposed to a relationship as it might seem at first glance. When he meets Chandler, Tripp is wildly unprepared for the impact this seemingly serious, sweet woman will have on his life.
I'm not sure that I've ever read a book where it was distaste at first sight. These two aren't exactly enemies, but they certainly don't see each other as love interests. It's only after a series of run-ins that they actually take the time to get to know each other, and the progression was immensely fascinating to read. I loved Tripp; he can definitely come off as a jerk, but he's really a big teddy bear, and I appreciated that he wasn't some cocky player. The first steamy scene certainly proved that, lol. I was laughing and smiling from start to finish, and I loved how unique this felt. Don't go into this one expecting some deep, meaningful romance; this is pure fun. And it does it well. I was lucky enough to receive an early copy via Wildfire Marketing, and am voluntarily leaving a review of this low angst rom com.
April 16, 2022
Disclaimer- I only know it is about Trip!
It Started With Two Young Brothers...
Both Talented And Reared By Parents Who Loved Them...
They Also Had A Sister, Too...
But These Boys Were Competitive...
Athletes Each...
One A Pro Football Player...
The Other Excelled In Baseball...
Now in the Ultimate Contest...
His Younger Brother Has Won...
He Is Getting Married Before Him...
How Dare His Brother Do That...
This Leaves Trip Wondering...
When Is It Going To Happen...
When Is He Going To Get His...
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3)-October 8, 2020
Hard Pass (Trophy Boyfriends, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Fall (Trophy Boyfriends, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
It Started With Two Young Brothers...
Both Talented And Reared By Parents Who Loved Them...
They Also Had A Sister, Too...
But These Boys Were Competitive...
Athletes Each...
One A Pro Football Player...
The Other Excelled In Baseball...
Now in the Ultimate Contest...
His Younger Brother Has Won...
He Is Getting Married Before Him...
How Dare His Brother Do That...
This Leaves Trip Wondering...
When Is It Going To Happen...
When Is He Going To Get His...
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3)-October 8, 2020
Hard Pass (Trophy Boyfriends, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Fall (Trophy Boyfriends, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
December 12, 2020
Quick(ish) Review
I’ve tried to get into this series but I think it’s just not my cuppa. Other than the family dynamics of the Wallace family, the romance part fell flat. First, I’m tired of the same angle of professional athletes treating women like shyte because they must be after their money. Second, It’s definitely a HFN ending without even a real ILU to make you think there’s potential for more. Even if there was a declaration, I didn’t feel much of a connection between Tripp and Chandler besides sex and the most mature person in the story is the teenage neighbor. There’s not much with their professional lives to add to the story. It felt like a mishmash of humorous scenes with no real cohesive thread to pull it together. Oh well. 🤷🏻♀️
I’ve tried to get into this series but I think it’s just not my cuppa. Other than the family dynamics of the Wallace family, the romance part fell flat. First, I’m tired of the same angle of professional athletes treating women like shyte because they must be after their money. Second, It’s definitely a HFN ending without even a real ILU to make you think there’s potential for more. Even if there was a declaration, I didn’t feel much of a connection between Tripp and Chandler besides sex and the most mature person in the story is the teenage neighbor. There’s not much with their professional lives to add to the story. It felt like a mishmash of humorous scenes with no real cohesive thread to pull it together. Oh well. 🤷🏻♀️
November 23, 2020
This was a struggle bus trying to rate this. On one hand I really want to give it two stars, but on the other hand I did enjoy some bits of the story and some of the elements, and for that I have decided to just keep it at a happy three stars. I was super excited for this story because it felt like something new and fresh from Ney compared to her other novels that have begun to feel repetitive and almost with an unfinished note to them. Unfortunately this book can be placed along side the others in the repetitive department.
In Hard Love, we are given a douchebag of a hero who is presented as simply misunderstood (I can vibe with this, as misunderstood heroes are my lady jam), and a heroine who is shy and dare I say semi modest? We are set up for greatness, but as the story unfolds our hero turns into an annoying figure with a soft side (maybe?) And our heroine is a complete 180 from the girl the story began with. I think this switch is my biggest problem with the story—Chandler (our heroine) never stayed to who the story set her up as—we were given no hint of this ulterior side to her, but as the story went on and she began to hang out with Tripp more often, Chandler became more like the sassy/snark filled woman from Ney’s other novels rather than this unique individual. And as for Tripp, I could not for the life of me get on board with him. His attitude stunk worse than sewer system. I am all for a grumpy douchebag character, but Tripp was a whole other level of rough that made me cock my head and wonder if he ever listens to the things that come out of his mouth. There were moments, I must admit where I began to lean towards liking him, but by the time I had finished the book, I still was peeved.
This novel, also gives off this unfinished vibe, as I’ve mentioned before; in which we aren’t offered much at the end of the novel apart from a declaration of “I like you”, which is fine if that is your cup of tea! Absolutely nothing wrong with that! I personally, however expected a more rounded HEA, and because of that I felt like the story was cut short and ultimately rushed.
With all of that said though, I do have to mention that Sara Ney brought her signature humor and wit with this novel, and for that alone I gave it the stars that I did. I liked the set up of the romance and the chemistry and banter between Tripp and Chandler (especially via text) is something I thoroughly enjoyed.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review
In Hard Love, we are given a douchebag of a hero who is presented as simply misunderstood (I can vibe with this, as misunderstood heroes are my lady jam), and a heroine who is shy and dare I say semi modest? We are set up for greatness, but as the story unfolds our hero turns into an annoying figure with a soft side (maybe?) And our heroine is a complete 180 from the girl the story began with. I think this switch is my biggest problem with the story—Chandler (our heroine) never stayed to who the story set her up as—we were given no hint of this ulterior side to her, but as the story went on and she began to hang out with Tripp more often, Chandler became more like the sassy/snark filled woman from Ney’s other novels rather than this unique individual. And as for Tripp, I could not for the life of me get on board with him. His attitude stunk worse than sewer system. I am all for a grumpy douchebag character, but Tripp was a whole other level of rough that made me cock my head and wonder if he ever listens to the things that come out of his mouth. There were moments, I must admit where I began to lean towards liking him, but by the time I had finished the book, I still was peeved.
This novel, also gives off this unfinished vibe, as I’ve mentioned before; in which we aren’t offered much at the end of the novel apart from a declaration of “I like you”, which is fine if that is your cup of tea! Absolutely nothing wrong with that! I personally, however expected a more rounded HEA, and because of that I felt like the story was cut short and ultimately rushed.
With all of that said though, I do have to mention that Sara Ney brought her signature humor and wit with this novel, and for that alone I gave it the stars that I did. I liked the set up of the romance and the chemistry and banter between Tripp and Chandler (especially via text) is something I thoroughly enjoyed.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review
November 18, 2020
A Sara Ney Book, Hell YES!!! This author is one of those authors who just brings a smile to my face. She always always makes me have a good time reading her books and this one was just another one to add to the list. ♥
Tripp and Chandler were like the total opposites of each other. He was arrogant and sometimes just rude. She was polite, quiet and just sweet. So obviously they would just clash at every turn. But the saying goes opposites attract and in the end the two of them just worked.
Everything about this story just worked for me. Their back and forth bantering sometimes had me laughing out loud. I loved that they had an attraction to each other and as they sorted out their issues it just grew and grew. Tripp was one of those guys that you just couldn’t help falling in love with, never mind his attitude. And Chandler I just loved her end of story. This is a story that you will want to read because it has everything you would want in a romance story. And because it’s a Sara Ney story… Of Course 😊
Tripp and Chandler were like the total opposites of each other. He was arrogant and sometimes just rude. She was polite, quiet and just sweet. So obviously they would just clash at every turn. But the saying goes opposites attract and in the end the two of them just worked.
Everything about this story just worked for me. Their back and forth bantering sometimes had me laughing out loud. I loved that they had an attraction to each other and as they sorted out their issues it just grew and grew. Tripp was one of those guys that you just couldn’t help falling in love with, never mind his attitude. And Chandler I just loved her end of story. This is a story that you will want to read because it has everything you would want in a romance story. And because it’s a Sara Ney story… Of Course 😊
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