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Eastshore Tigers #1
Strong Side
Their chemistry on the field is undeniable. But can they ever be more than friends?
Jason Hawkins is about to throw the biggest Hail Mary pass of his career.
If he can't turn NFL recruiters' heads this year, he'll lose his shot at the one thing he's ever been good at. But every quarterback needs a man he can count on down-field. For Jason, that man just might be the Tigers' new receiver, Derek Griffin.
Four years ago, Derek nearly lost everything after being outed by his teammates.
Now he finally has a chance to get it all back as a walk-on for Eastshore College... if he can resist his immediate attraction to the gorgeous and very straight star quarterback.
An instant connection during practice leads to an easy friendship that only grows stronger off the field. Derek is convinced friendship is all it'll ever be, but a very confusing moment of impulse leaves both of them fumbling for answers about their relationship.
As curiosity gives way to passion and passion gives way to something deeper, Jason and Derek will have to tackle their own personal demons to bring home the win and earn their happy ending.
Jason Hawkins is about to throw the biggest Hail Mary pass of his career.
If he can't turn NFL recruiters' heads this year, he'll lose his shot at the one thing he's ever been good at. But every quarterback needs a man he can count on down-field. For Jason, that man just might be the Tigers' new receiver, Derek Griffin.
Four years ago, Derek nearly lost everything after being outed by his teammates.
Now he finally has a chance to get it all back as a walk-on for Eastshore College... if he can resist his immediate attraction to the gorgeous and very straight star quarterback.
An instant connection during practice leads to an easy friendship that only grows stronger off the field. Derek is convinced friendship is all it'll ever be, but a very confusing moment of impulse leaves both of them fumbling for answers about their relationship.
As curiosity gives way to passion and passion gives way to something deeper, Jason and Derek will have to tackle their own personal demons to bring home the win and earn their happy ending.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 539 reviews
February 26, 2019
Touchdown:
- Athletes (football players at that!)
- College boys (approximate 2.2 second recovery time)
- Best friends to lovers (one of my favorite tropes)
-Comfort and healing (twice over)
- Newly discovered bisexuality and OFY (not GFY, thank fuck; I LOVE that once Jason falls for Derek, he doesn't back down and is proud to own their relationship.)
- Steamalicious (not overly explicit but still SEXY & SWEET)
- Low angst (believable relationship snags but no Big Misunderstanding or Crazy Homophobic Parent; I hate those tropes.)
- HEA!
Penalty:
- I wanted to know more about Derek's family and more about Jason's relationship with his ex-girlfriend.
- I thought perhaps Jason's dad came round too easily, although I did appreciate that he was accepting of Jason and Derek.
- EDITING ISSUES: typos, misspellings, missing words, and subject/verb agreement errors. I noticed this mistake several times: "Neither of us have ...." English 101, lesson 3: "Neither" is the subject, and it takes a singular verb (i.e., "Neither of us HAS ..."). The poor editing pulled me out of the story more than once.
Final score:
- I'm giving the editing issues the big ol' stink eye, but since this is the author's first book, and self-published to boot, I'm going to let them slide this time.
- Strong Side is a hot & enjoyable read.
- Athletes (football players at that!)
- College boys (approximate 2.2 second recovery time)
- Best friends to lovers (one of my favorite tropes)
-Comfort and healing (twice over)
- Newly discovered bisexuality and OFY (not GFY, thank fuck; I LOVE that once Jason falls for Derek, he doesn't back down and is proud to own their relationship.)
- Steamalicious (not overly explicit but still SEXY & SWEET)
- Low angst (believable relationship snags but no Big Misunderstanding or Crazy Homophobic Parent; I hate those tropes.)
- HEA!
Penalty:
- I wanted to know more about Derek's family and more about Jason's relationship with his ex-girlfriend.
- I thought perhaps Jason's dad came round too easily, although I did appreciate that he was accepting of Jason and Derek.
- EDITING ISSUES: typos, misspellings, missing words, and subject/verb agreement errors. I noticed this mistake several times: "Neither of us have ...." English 101, lesson 3: "Neither" is the subject, and it takes a singular verb (i.e., "Neither of us HAS ..."). The poor editing pulled me out of the story more than once.
Final score:
- I'm giving the editing issues the big ol' stink eye, but since this is the author's first book, and self-published to boot, I'm going to let them slide this time.
- Strong Side is a hot & enjoyable read.
May 15, 2016
4 Stars!!
'Strong Side' surprised me in a very good way not only because it was a an entertaining read, but also because it was a great debut. If you are like me and prefer your m/m reads to be sweet, sexy and low in angst and also drama, then you will want to try this one as soon as possible, because this little gem was the perfect blend of sweetness and sexiness, with great plot and two endearing character you will fell for from the very beginning. A friends to lovers/OFY story 'Strong Side' is the first installment in Alison Hendricks’s 'Eastshore Tigers' series and tells the story of two football players who together find more than friendship – comfort and love.
Derek Griffin is the team’s new football player. He’s gay, but no one knows it since he prefers not to advertise anything about his sexuality. He’s out, his family knows about it being cool and supportive, but he knows not everyone is like that. What happened to him when he was in high school can confirm that, so Derek is a little afraid to come out in front of everyone he knows. Needless to say, his teammates don’t know anything about it. The sad thing is the tragic events in his past left him with some issues regarding his play.
Jason “Hawk” Hawkins is an All Star senior, the best player on campus, the poster boy of confidence and masculinity and unfortunately for Derek who feels a strong attraction towards him, is straight. When Jason figures out Derek has some issues on the field, he offers to help him since he realizes how talented his teammate is. Soon after, they become the best of friends and as their friendship grows Derek lets Jason know that he’s gay and also some things about his past. As they spend more and more time together training or simply hanging out, Derek and Jason slowly become something more.
I enjoyed this one! It was exactly how I like my m/m reads – easy to read, entertaining with a good dose of steam and some sweet and lovely moments between the two main characters. The story line was entertaining and I found the writing to be pretty engaging, so I’m looking forward to read the next books in the series. The two main characters, Derek and Jason were both endearing and both of them well portrayed. I liked Derek for being patient with the other boy and Jason for being honest with himself, with Derek and also with his father. There wasn’t much drama regarding Jason’s feelings towards Derek which I liked. It was exactly enough for everything to be believable without the story being too angsty. In fact, the angst was really low which it was fine with me.
Like I mentioned above the story has enough sexy scenes between these two boys to keep you entertained, but also some good sweet, lovely moments to make you root for them.
Overall, an enjoyable sports romance!
'Strong Side' surprised me in a very good way not only because it was a an entertaining read, but also because it was a great debut. If you are like me and prefer your m/m reads to be sweet, sexy and low in angst and also drama, then you will want to try this one as soon as possible, because this little gem was the perfect blend of sweetness and sexiness, with great plot and two endearing character you will fell for from the very beginning. A friends to lovers/OFY story 'Strong Side' is the first installment in Alison Hendricks’s 'Eastshore Tigers' series and tells the story of two football players who together find more than friendship – comfort and love.
Derek Griffin is the team’s new football player. He’s gay, but no one knows it since he prefers not to advertise anything about his sexuality. He’s out, his family knows about it being cool and supportive, but he knows not everyone is like that. What happened to him when he was in high school can confirm that, so Derek is a little afraid to come out in front of everyone he knows. Needless to say, his teammates don’t know anything about it. The sad thing is the tragic events in his past left him with some issues regarding his play.
Jason “Hawk” Hawkins is an All Star senior, the best player on campus, the poster boy of confidence and masculinity and unfortunately for Derek who feels a strong attraction towards him, is straight. When Jason figures out Derek has some issues on the field, he offers to help him since he realizes how talented his teammate is. Soon after, they become the best of friends and as their friendship grows Derek lets Jason know that he’s gay and also some things about his past. As they spend more and more time together training or simply hanging out, Derek and Jason slowly become something more.
I enjoyed this one! It was exactly how I like my m/m reads – easy to read, entertaining with a good dose of steam and some sweet and lovely moments between the two main characters. The story line was entertaining and I found the writing to be pretty engaging, so I’m looking forward to read the next books in the series. The two main characters, Derek and Jason were both endearing and both of them well portrayed. I liked Derek for being patient with the other boy and Jason for being honest with himself, with Derek and also with his father. There wasn’t much drama regarding Jason’s feelings towards Derek which I liked. It was exactly enough for everything to be believable without the story being too angsty. In fact, the angst was really low which it was fine with me.
Like I mentioned above the story has enough sexy scenes between these two boys to keep you entertained, but also some good sweet, lovely moments to make you root for them.
Overall, an enjoyable sports romance!
January 24, 2016
*** 4 Stars ***
Lovely GFY Story
For a debut novel this is extremely good.
There are loads of GFY stories out there and the ones that work best for me are the sweet,sexy ones.
I just loved these boys!!
Derek is Gay,although he doesn't broadcast it.
Jason is straight....
They are in the same college football team.Jason is someone who Derek has looked up to and lusted after....
They start getting together when Jason starts helping Derek with football coaching and Derek helps Jason with school work.
This is a very engaging book with two very likeable male characters.The transition from friends to lovers is extremely well written and believable.
When these two get going it's very hot.
Great secondary characters as well.
Highly recommended for M/M fans who enjoy a GFY story.
***Arc from Author***
Lovely GFY Story
For a debut novel this is extremely good.
There are loads of GFY stories out there and the ones that work best for me are the sweet,sexy ones.
I just loved these boys!!
Derek is Gay,although he doesn't broadcast it.
Jason is straight....
They are in the same college football team.Jason is someone who Derek has looked up to and lusted after....
They start getting together when Jason starts helping Derek with football coaching and Derek helps Jason with school work.
This is a very engaging book with two very likeable male characters.The transition from friends to lovers is extremely well written and believable.
When these two get going it's very hot.
Great secondary characters as well.
Highly recommended for M/M fans who enjoy a GFY story.
***Arc from Author***
Want to read
December 12, 2016*FREE today, 12/12/16!*
I REALLY want to try this one!
Side note: Did anyone else think that this was a Kindle Alexander book from that cover??
I REALLY want to try this one!
Side note: Did anyone else think that this was a Kindle Alexander book from that cover??
January 29, 2016
I must say I'm really impressed with this one, especially since it's a debut novel. I devoured it and enjoyed it very much and will definitely be looking for more from this author. The whole book is very sweet and sexy, low on the angst and helluva hot. It has one of my favorites friends to lovers trope and is settled in college. There is a lot of football and sport bromance that I love so much in these kind of books. So, to cut the story short, if you like sport romances, and not only MM ones, I highly recommend this one.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Read
February 15, 2021
DNF 18%. Aw, bummer. This is not going to work. How do I know that? Well. Let's see...
- Because everybody knows that football players are wizards : "... if it's just because he's talented, or because he has enough confidence to force the ball to behave the way he wanted."
Balls have intent and all that jazz.
- Because everybody knows that they are confused about their feelings : "His arms are buit up, especially, and I feel a weird sort of flush pass through me as I look at him. Dam, I've been here too long. I loaded up on carbs during breakfast, but after the intense workout, I'm starving again. That must what it is."
*DYING LAUGHING*
OF COURSE IT MUST BE THAT.
- Because they're selling dreams (no, really) : "Strong jaw, nicely square face, and a brow that's masculine but not reaching Neanderthal levels."
We wouldn't want that now would we.
- Because beer money is such a wonderful concept : "A few displeased groans and shouts come from the tables around us, and I see beer money change hands."
Woot! BEER MONEY!
- Because insta-something-something : "But the whole time, I can't help but watch my new mentor. Having one-on-one time with Jason Hawkins is either going to cure me of every mental hangup, or give me another one entirely :
Him."
Nice. Dramatic much?
This is why I won't read further and be thankful that it was a freebee. Oh, well. Onto the next.
____________________________
First line : "Putting that blue and black jersey for the first time feels like coming home."
Okay we need to talk about that, because I'm seriously starting to think that you Americans have some secret shit hidden in your jackets.
Because. That line. Is. EVERYWHERE.
Okay now. I played sport for years - handball. Oh, right, I need to explain what that is. So this is basically the best sport EVER.
Because I said so.
Things go like that...
And then you just fly (okay jump but hey who's counting) and look badass and BIM, goal.
Just like that.
Anyway. I had a sweatshirt of my team because we do not have jackets in France (kidding, kidding, next thing I know it's the new stereotype about French after the not-shaving, eating frogs and snails - Ewww SERIOUSLY I mean we're PEOPLE).
So, I loved my sweat. There was my name on it and everything.
It didn't feel like home, though.
Also, I never wore it at school but then, it was yellow.
I am a redhead.
Fuckers.
Okay, what I really wanted to say is that I'm trying to forget that The Raven King is over. So, yeah.
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January 24, 2016
This is a quick-and-dirty review because my new job is taking up so much of my reading time and I really wanted to recommend this one for Football romance fans. (And practice new Photoshop skills on this pretty player.)
4.5 stars!
Hot men, GFY/OFY, virgin butt sex, real football action, great sex and awesome passion. Win!
Recommended!
January 29, 2016
This one was good.
Could be that I'm a big fan of sports romance.
Could be that this one was low angst, just like I prefer.
Could be all of that experimenting going on, my favorite.
BUT....there were some glaringly big typos. Some of which were a bit distracting. But I can forgive all of that for the above three mentioned points.
So...nice debut Ms Hendricks. Looking forward to the next one.
Could be that I'm a big fan of sports romance.
Could be that this one was low angst, just like I prefer.
Could be all of that experimenting going on, my favorite.
BUT....there were some glaringly big typos. Some of which were a bit distracting. But I can forgive all of that for the above three mentioned points.
So...nice debut Ms Hendricks. Looking forward to the next one.
February 2, 2016
This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
An okay book with an okay story. Although Strong Side has an easy plot to follow, it came out more as a book playing on the safe side rather than living up to its title.
The characters were nicely developed but I wanted the author leveraging more on this to establish tension and conflict. There were lots of opportunities presented in the book, but the supposed conflict were mostly handled off-page and indirectly mentioned.
The book followed a switching first-person narration between Derek and Jason. While I believe it was a good idea, I felt at times that there wasn’t much difference between how these two characters think. As they had their own baggage to carry, it would have been better if the author allowed for a deeper introspection, making the characters more relatable.
Lots of editing mistakes but these can be overlooked as I came to know that this was a self-published book. Hendricks holds a lot of potential but she needs to step up her game if she wants her stories to matter and really stick. But that’s just my two cents, as a reader who’s always on a hunt for the “holy grail” of M/M books.
March 4, 2016
4.5 Stars****
(ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review)
What a great book this was! I love it when I take a gamble on a new author and they deliver a winner. The Strong Side was short, sexy and very entertaining. If you are a fan of M/M romance, definitely check this one out. This book is one not to miss.
Derek and Jason are members of the same football team. Derek is the new guy while Jason is the star of the team. Instead of acting stuck up and important, Jason embraces Derek into the team and even decides to take him under his wing, helping him improve his game.
They become fast friends but since Derek is gay he develops a deep attraction and respect for his friend. Jason is into women, but as he gets to know Derek more, he starts to notice his friend in a different way.
When these two friends practice on the field and tackle each other, the sexual tension is undeniable. They realize that their amazing chemistry goes beyond the field. Will these two friends, risk losing their friendship and act on their feelings?
I am a big fan of friends to lovers stories, and if you combine sports with romance; I scream JACKPOT!!!
The story was sweet and sexy and I would highly recommend it to any M/M fans. I'll definitely be on the look-out for any future books by this author.
(ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review)
What a great book this was! I love it when I take a gamble on a new author and they deliver a winner. The Strong Side was short, sexy and very entertaining. If you are a fan of M/M romance, definitely check this one out. This book is one not to miss.
Derek and Jason are members of the same football team. Derek is the new guy while Jason is the star of the team. Instead of acting stuck up and important, Jason embraces Derek into the team and even decides to take him under his wing, helping him improve his game.
They become fast friends but since Derek is gay he develops a deep attraction and respect for his friend. Jason is into women, but as he gets to know Derek more, he starts to notice his friend in a different way.
When these two friends practice on the field and tackle each other, the sexual tension is undeniable. They realize that their amazing chemistry goes beyond the field. Will these two friends, risk losing their friendship and act on their feelings?
I am a big fan of friends to lovers stories, and if you combine sports with romance; I scream JACKPOT!!!
The story was sweet and sexy and I would highly recommend it to any M/M fans. I'll definitely be on the look-out for any future books by this author.
July 11, 2018
4 Sporty Stars!
My first Hendricks and a total win!
Admittedly, a bit heavy on the sports talk and its prominence throughout the narrative, this story features Derek Griffin who’s making a return to football after a near devastating incident a few years back. He’s determined to get a football scholarship and aggressively puts his best foot forward despite the mild PTSD that he still harbors. Will his hard work be enough?
Fortune seems to be on Derek’s side as he catches the eye of star quarterback Jason Hawkins, who’s equally ambitious as he sets his sights on making it to the NFL draft. Jason just needs the right connection and chemistry with a receiver who will show off his abilities. As these two connect on and off the field, their friendship inevitably blossoms into so much more…
This was super hot. Just saying.
Take a seemingly straight guy who’s literally awakened by his bff in all the ways. This could’ve easily and very plausibly evolved into a heavy angst ridden story involving closets, horrible parents, equally asshole teammates, hate crimes, etc., and I just have to say that I’m so relieved and grateful that it did not do that because my heart is frail and can’t take such as well as it used to.
This was a well done sports themed NA, friends to lovers romance with two very likeable MC’s. There’s no doubt that I enjoyed myself *wink*, and I look forward to what else Hendricks has in store for this college football team! Unf.
My first Hendricks and a total win!
Admittedly, a bit heavy on the sports talk and its prominence throughout the narrative, this story features Derek Griffin who’s making a return to football after a near devastating incident a few years back. He’s determined to get a football scholarship and aggressively puts his best foot forward despite the mild PTSD that he still harbors. Will his hard work be enough?
Fortune seems to be on Derek’s side as he catches the eye of star quarterback Jason Hawkins, who’s equally ambitious as he sets his sights on making it to the NFL draft. Jason just needs the right connection and chemistry with a receiver who will show off his abilities. As these two connect on and off the field, their friendship inevitably blossoms into so much more…
This was super hot. Just saying.
Take a seemingly straight guy who’s literally awakened by his bff in all the ways. This could’ve easily and very plausibly evolved into a heavy angst ridden story involving closets, horrible parents, equally asshole teammates, hate crimes, etc., and I just have to say that I’m so relieved and grateful that it did not do that because my heart is frail and can’t take such as well as it used to.
This was a well done sports themed NA, friends to lovers romance with two very likeable MC’s. There’s no doubt that I enjoyed myself *wink*, and I look forward to what else Hendricks has in store for this college football team! Unf.
June 8, 2016
Derek came too close to losing one of the most important things in his life, all because of which gender he likes. So when he gets a chance at playing for the Tigers he decides he needs to keep his secret and not risk losing this chance. He never expected Jason Hawkins to enter his life though.
Jason is the quarterback for the Tigers and favored to be in the NFL after this year is up. He needs to focus on football, and football only. But then Derek walks onto the field and he starts to feel things he never expected to, and he realizes he has a lot to learn about himself.
A good m/m romance story is my weakness, and this book is the epitome of why. Not only do you get one hot guy with abs for days, you get two! I mean, who wouldn't want to read that? In Strong Side we also get to read about Derek and Jason coming to terms with their feelings for each other and get to see them discover how deep those feelings can go. I loved the sweetness of the story that was there along with the hotness, and trust me - it was hot.
Overall, it was a good sports romance and a great gay-for-you type of story. The characters were well developed and very likable, and there wasn't a bunch of drama which I really liked. This book is definitely recommended by me.
Jason is the quarterback for the Tigers and favored to be in the NFL after this year is up. He needs to focus on football, and football only. But then Derek walks onto the field and he starts to feel things he never expected to, and he realizes he has a lot to learn about himself.
A good m/m romance story is my weakness, and this book is the epitome of why. Not only do you get one hot guy with abs for days, you get two! I mean, who wouldn't want to read that? In Strong Side we also get to read about Derek and Jason coming to terms with their feelings for each other and get to see them discover how deep those feelings can go. I loved the sweetness of the story that was there along with the hotness, and trust me - it was hot.
Overall, it was a good sports romance and a great gay-for-you type of story. The characters were well developed and very likable, and there wasn't a bunch of drama which I really liked. This book is definitely recommended by me.
April 2, 2017
I was given an ARC by the author...for which I want to say 'thank you', because I really enjoyed reading this one;)
So...this book has a lot of tropes I like. The top two being "sports" and "friends to lovers".
Jason Hawk and Derek Griffin, meet at footballpractice. Jason is the QB and Derek is a receiver. Derek is gay, but nobody knows about this, and there is a reason for that. He went through something awefull, when he was still in highschool, and ever since, he's not so eager to come out to his footballteam again. This traumatic event however, has also caused some hang-ups regarding his play.
Jason is a well known QB on his team and during practice, he gets to witness Dereks struggle. He also has this feeling that Derek could be really great, so he offers to help him get over his hang-ups. They start training and practicing together and become very good friends. Derek decides to be honest and explains to Jason (partially) what happend to him in high school and also lets him know he's gay.
The two of them become closer every day, and eventually feelings chance, as they always do ;) Derek has always been attracted to Jason...even before they became friends, but Jason, he's confused about his feelings, he's only ever been with women.
What I liked most about this book, is that Jason was very honest about what he was feeling. Not only to Derek, but also to himself. Ofcourse there was some hessitation on his part, but it was very short, and to be honest...I wouldn't have believed him if wasn't confused.
Once Jason figures things out for himself, he's all in....and I liked it, very much. These boys were hot together, but in a very sweet way. Things aren't always easy though, because eventhough Jason is coming to terms about his feelings for a man, Derek is freaking out a bit, because of his past.
Now the angst in this one wasn't very high. I'ts a pretty fluffy read...at least that's what I think. Both characters were very like-able and sweet, but it wasn't overly sweet or sugary.
A very nice, gfy, friends to lovers, sports book, 4,5 stars from me.
I do hope there will be more in this series, since I would love to read a book about Mills ;)
He was a great secondary character.
So...this book has a lot of tropes I like. The top two being "sports" and "friends to lovers".
Jason Hawk and Derek Griffin, meet at footballpractice. Jason is the QB and Derek is a receiver. Derek is gay, but nobody knows about this, and there is a reason for that. He went through something awefull, when he was still in highschool, and ever since, he's not so eager to come out to his footballteam again. This traumatic event however, has also caused some hang-ups regarding his play.
Jason is a well known QB on his team and during practice, he gets to witness Dereks struggle. He also has this feeling that Derek could be really great, so he offers to help him get over his hang-ups. They start training and practicing together and become very good friends. Derek decides to be honest and explains to Jason (partially) what happend to him in high school and also lets him know he's gay.
The two of them become closer every day, and eventually feelings chance, as they always do ;) Derek has always been attracted to Jason...even before they became friends, but Jason, he's confused about his feelings, he's only ever been with women.
What I liked most about this book, is that Jason was very honest about what he was feeling. Not only to Derek, but also to himself. Ofcourse there was some hessitation on his part, but it was very short, and to be honest...I wouldn't have believed him if wasn't confused.
Once Jason figures things out for himself, he's all in....and I liked it, very much. These boys were hot together, but in a very sweet way. Things aren't always easy though, because eventhough Jason is coming to terms about his feelings for a man, Derek is freaking out a bit, because of his past.
Now the angst in this one wasn't very high. I'ts a pretty fluffy read...at least that's what I think. Both characters were very like-able and sweet, but it wasn't overly sweet or sugary.
A very nice, gfy, friends to lovers, sports book, 4,5 stars from me.
I do hope there will be more in this series, since I would love to read a book about Mills ;)
He was a great secondary character.
February 21, 2017
When I received a message from this author asking if I would be interested in reading her debut book I really didn't think I was going to reply. I get messages every now and then and usually ignore them. Most of the time it's because after reading the blurb it's usually something I'm not interested in reading or I'm just feeling lazy and not wanting the pressure of having to write a review on a book I might not feel like writing a review on. I'm lazy like that. But this author told me I didn't need to write a review if I didn't want to which made me want to read the book more with that pressure taken off the table. But I made a New Year's resolution to try and write more reviews this year so this author got lucky. LOL But seriously, I haven't had the best of luck with getting ARC's and authors agreeing with the reviews I write for them. You know, the kind who say they want your honest opinion but then don't like you honest opinion and decide to PM you and tell you that you just didn't understand their book or get where their characters are coming from. That's why I usually shy away from accepting to read ARC's. Now, enough of that rant. On to the book.
I really enjoyed this story. It was light and had hardly any to no angst which I highly enjoy in my books. Some angst is good and I like it when it's done well, but I've read a couple angsty books recently that has left me not looking forward to any of it for awhile in my reads. So I was happy that this one wasn't heavy on the drama and was more into falling in love and having a HEA.
Jason's relationship with his father had me on the edge. I was so hoping it wasn't going to go the way I thought it was and I was extremely happy the way the author took it. I thought it would go the clichéd route and when she took the turn in the opposite way I was like, yes! I really liked how it worked out between them.
Although we didn't get too much interaction with Derek and his family, it still came through as obvious that he has a great supportive family. I loved meeting them there at the end. His mom was awesome.
These two together was hot. I loved the slow build into buddies, best friends, lovers, to boyfriends. It was a great football story and I liked some of the side characters as well especially, Mills. I can't help but hope he's a star in one the next books in this series.
Now for the little bit of criticism I have. Although I really enjoyed the story and loved the characters, I couldn't get past the editing issues. It just needs a good clean up because the issues were distracting. I wanted some more on Jason's background. Does he have more family? It can't just be his dad can it? I would also have liked to have seen more of Derek's family. I enjoyed the little bit we got at the end and I would have liked more of that. But for this to be the author's first book I think she did a really great job and the writing is promising. I'm totally interested in reading any of her future books.
Thanks for the ARC!
I really enjoyed this story. It was light and had hardly any to no angst which I highly enjoy in my books. Some angst is good and I like it when it's done well, but I've read a couple angsty books recently that has left me not looking forward to any of it for awhile in my reads. So I was happy that this one wasn't heavy on the drama and was more into falling in love and having a HEA.
Jason's relationship with his father had me on the edge. I was so hoping it wasn't going to go the way I thought it was and I was extremely happy the way the author took it. I thought it would go the clichéd route and when she took the turn in the opposite way I was like, yes! I really liked how it worked out between them.
Although we didn't get too much interaction with Derek and his family, it still came through as obvious that he has a great supportive family. I loved meeting them there at the end. His mom was awesome.
These two together was hot. I loved the slow build into buddies, best friends, lovers, to boyfriends. It was a great football story and I liked some of the side characters as well especially, Mills. I can't help but hope he's a star in one the next books in this series.
Now for the little bit of criticism I have. Although I really enjoyed the story and loved the characters, I couldn't get past the editing issues. It just needs a good clean up because the issues were distracting. I wanted some more on Jason's background. Does he have more family? It can't just be his dad can it? I would also have liked to have seen more of Derek's family. I enjoyed the little bit we got at the end and I would have liked more of that. But for this to be the author's first book I think she did a really great job and the writing is promising. I'm totally interested in reading any of her future books.
Thanks for the ARC!
January 29, 2016
Strong Side by Alison Hendricks was a pleasant surprise. I mean-
Sports romance ✔
Friends to lovers ✔
Bisexual MC ✔
Feel good story ✔
Stolen Moments ✔
Dual POV ✔
Hello! Elements I love!
The only thing was the editing issues. I am pretty lenient, but even I noticed them. Was it enough to ruin the story? No, but it did make me kind of pause for that brief second.
Overall, pretty good. I am very much looking forward to more from this author.
January 25, 2016
Derek Griffin is a college freshman who plays as a receiver on the football team. Due to what happened to him in high school, he doesn't want his teammates to know about his sexuality. Plus, he's afraid of being tackled.
Jason Hawkins, a popular and straight senior quarterback, notices Derek's potential as well as his struggles on the field. He wants to help him get over his fear, so he offers him practices together.
Derek and Jason bond over trainings and they easily become best friends. Each day they grow more and more attracted to each other until they no longer can keep it a secret. Derek has been interested in Jason from the very beginning, but Jason is confused with his emotions. To have a relationship they want and to win the national championship, first they have to figure some things out.
It's a sweet, easy read with hot sexy times and no excessive drama. It's told from two POVs, which I enjoyed, and there's a nice HEA. I'm looking forward to seeing more from this author.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2016
So....
As has happened to me many times before (you think I would have learned by now!), I had a full, many paragraph long review written and went to another window to look for a gif and lost everything when Safari refreshed. Moral of the story: don't use Safari on iPad to write your reviews. Please remind me next time! Like now…. what is wrong with me????
Needless to say I was annoyed at the time and still am. But! I have rallied and will now write a slightly shorter, but still effusive, review.
Aherrmmmm....
:opens a Google Doc:
This was me when I started reading this book:
I was not expecting much, being that I had never heard of this author before, but the price was right (free! Or $0.99!) and the cover was hot, so why not, right? Right?? I thought so.
This was me at the end of the book:
Ok I'm totally exaggerating, but it DID bring a tear to my eye. These types of hard-luck-sports-guy-done-good stories and movies always do.
- Seriously though, the writing is on point: I don't typically like first person all that much, but I did here, and I could tell the difference between the dual perspectives without having to look at the title of the chapter each time. I really liked Jason and Derek, both separately and together. And the fact that I can remember their names almost two days later is a big deal. I usually forget character names right after the reading a book (and sometimes during), so that goes to show you… you know… something. I will be checking out any new book this author decides to put out (unless she pulls a “Zero at the Bone" and never writes anything again, which would be sad as hell).
- There's typos, but not an excessive amount: I mean, the author could really do with another editing session, but I was able to overlook this issue because of the story. And I never overlook this issue! So that's saying a lot.
-I don't like football. Like, at all. And this story’s 3rd main character is football, but I was perfectly fine with that, because the story was good.
- It's hot. Very much so. In this case you can definitely judge a book by its cover, and I'm glad I did.
This book is not GFY, in case you don't like that, or even in case you do.
Anyway, without going into too much detail (because that's what I did in the review I lost, dammit), I will just say that this book is definitely worth a read. And it's free on Kindle Unlimited or only 99 cents! You cannot beat that.
Previously:
Lovely cover is lovely, plus it's free on Kindle Unlimited? Sold! Here's hoping it's as good as the cover.
As has happened to me many times before (you think I would have learned by now!), I had a full, many paragraph long review written and went to another window to look for a gif and lost everything when Safari refreshed. Moral of the story: don't use Safari on iPad to write your reviews. Please remind me next time! Like now…. what is wrong with me????
Needless to say I was annoyed at the time and still am. But! I have rallied and will now write a slightly shorter, but still effusive, review.
Aherrmmmm....
:opens a Google Doc:
This was me when I started reading this book:
I was not expecting much, being that I had never heard of this author before, but the price was right (free! Or $0.99!) and the cover was hot, so why not, right? Right?? I thought so.
This was me at the end of the book:
Ok I'm totally exaggerating, but it DID bring a tear to my eye. These types of hard-luck-sports-guy-done-good stories and movies always do.
- Seriously though, the writing is on point: I don't typically like first person all that much, but I did here, and I could tell the difference between the dual perspectives without having to look at the title of the chapter each time. I really liked Jason and Derek, both separately and together. And the fact that I can remember their names almost two days later is a big deal. I usually forget character names right after the reading a book (and sometimes during), so that goes to show you… you know… something. I will be checking out any new book this author decides to put out (unless she pulls a “Zero at the Bone" and never writes anything again, which would be sad as hell).
- There's typos, but not an excessive amount: I mean, the author could really do with another editing session, but I was able to overlook this issue because of the story. And I never overlook this issue! So that's saying a lot.
-I don't like football. Like, at all. And this story’s 3rd main character is football, but I was perfectly fine with that, because the story was good.
- It's hot. Very much so. In this case you can definitely judge a book by its cover, and I'm glad I did.
This book is not GFY, in case you don't like that, or even in case you do.
Anyway, without going into too much detail (because that's what I did in the review I lost, dammit), I will just say that this book is definitely worth a read. And it's free on Kindle Unlimited or only 99 cents! You cannot beat that.
Previously:
Lovely cover is lovely, plus it's free on Kindle Unlimited? Sold! Here's hoping it's as good as the cover.
January 27, 2016
*4,5 Touchdown stars*
~ ARC kindly provided by the author ~
Wow, I am really impressed with this debut novel.
Though being an European girl and not understanding much about the dynamics of American Football, I enjoyed this story enormously. I read it in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down.
This story ticked all my happy boxes;
Jason is the QB and Derek is the new receiver. They click rather well on the field and when Jason decides to help train Derek more, due to some “freezing” during the game. Derek went through some traumatic event where he was seriously injured while playing in highschool and it all seems to come back to him. With Jason’s help he seems to overcome his fear and they become real good friends.
Jason has never known more than to be a football player. Derek helps him studying so he will be able to graduate.
Derek is gay. He’s not keeping it a secret but with his history he’s reluctant to let his teammates know. He’s always been attracted to Jason. But what can a guy do when his best friend is straight? I guess, just pining. And that is what he does until Jason acts on some jealousy!!!
I loved there was no angst and as soon Jason figured out his feelings, he was ready to be out and proud! I loved Derek’s family and even Jason’s father redeemed himself. I could see he really cared for his son.
I hope to read more of these guys cause they were awesome.
He took me from Hawk the “star quarterback” to Jason, a guy who’s recognized for more than his ability to throw a football. And even though we haven’t officially talked about it yet, I’d like to spend the rest of my life thanking him for that.
May 15, 2017
A fun, sweet and sexy read, without getting too buried in football play-by-plays or angst.
It's also *FREE* with Kindle Unlimited, so the next time you get a jock itch (sorry, not sorry), this might be a good one to try.
4 stars.
January 31, 2016
I wasn't expecting much from this one. It's a Kindle Unlimited title right now, and I've found that the majority of KU titles are just shy of being bad enough to use their printed versions as toilet paper. The unavoidable anal paper cuts would probably help distract from the awful writing, but I digress...
This is one of the rare good ones. The dialogue was good, the romance was good, the story progression was well-paced and believable, and there was a sweetness that didn't tip over into saccharine bullshit.
So yeah. No need to use its printed version as toilet paper. Enjoy.
This is one of the rare good ones. The dialogue was good, the romance was good, the story progression was well-paced and believable, and there was a sweetness that didn't tip over into saccharine bullshit.
So yeah. No need to use its printed version as toilet paper. Enjoy.
March 27, 2016
4.5 Stars
I was just skimming through books looking to find something to read and noticed yet another review has been lost...not sure why that seems to happen. I will just refresh and say, I really enjoyed this friends to lovers story, was really impressed with this author's first book, and aside from some grammatical errors and continuity issues at the end, thought this was a great story! I will definitely read more of her books!!
** Gifted copy from author, thank you!!**
I was just skimming through books looking to find something to read and noticed yet another review has been lost...not sure why that seems to happen. I will just refresh and say, I really enjoyed this friends to lovers story, was really impressed with this author's first book, and aside from some grammatical errors and continuity issues at the end, thought this was a great story! I will definitely read more of her books!!
** Gifted copy from author, thank you!!**
February 11, 2019
ETA for audio review: Chistopher Boucher continues to impress me with his range, character voices, and his timing. The narration made a good story even better.
**~~**~~**~~**~~**
Lovely football sports romance with dual POV, some heat, and a sweet HEA.
I liked the backstory and the thread of angst that's woven throughout the story works well. The sexy times are not too explicit and just hot enough.
All in all it was a nice Sunday afternoon read.
**~~**~~**~~**~~**
Lovely football sports romance with dual POV, some heat, and a sweet HEA.
I liked the backstory and the thread of angst that's woven throughout the story works well. The sexy times are not too explicit and just hot enough.
All in all it was a nice Sunday afternoon read.
January 30, 2021
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was just kind of meh for me. I don’t think we get into the characters all that deeply and I don’t think I really connected to either of them because of that. It might be that I’ve been reading a lot of mm books lately since I’m a new fan of the genre, but it felt a little too cookie cutter and predictable for me. I didn’t hate it or anything, but its one that just isn’t going to be all that memorable in the long run 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Derek and Jason’s story. Derek is a walk-on wide receiver for the college football team that Jason is the quarterback for. Jason sees the potential in Derek and offers to help him out to get the starting position because he needs a good season for his last chance at getting drafted. Jason is struggling to graduate and Derek offers to help him get what he needs to do it in exchange. They quickly become best friends, the line gets crossed one day, and they fall in love. There are some sexy times and some mild drama between them...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Derek and Jason’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well. It is on the short side for me @ 259 pages in my kindle app.
Instalove: No, friendship to love.
H1 (Hero #1) rating: 3 stars. Derek. He was alright. I felt bad for what he previously went through but I don’t think I really connected with him.
H2 (Hero #2) rating: 3 stars. Jason. He was also just alright. I didn’t feel like I really connected with him either.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HFN ending . But, again, it wasn’t enough closure for me.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was just kind of meh for me. I don’t think we get into the characters all that deeply and I don’t think I really connected to either of them because of that. It might be that I’ve been reading a lot of mm books lately since I’m a new fan of the genre, but it felt a little too cookie cutter and predictable for me. I didn’t hate it or anything, but its one that just isn’t going to be all that memorable in the long run 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Derek and Jason’s story. Derek is a walk-on wide receiver for the college football team that Jason is the quarterback for. Jason sees the potential in Derek and offers to help him out to get the starting position because he needs a good season for his last chance at getting drafted. Jason is struggling to graduate and Derek offers to help him get what he needs to do it in exchange. They quickly become best friends, the line gets crossed one day, and they fall in love. There are some sexy times and some mild drama between them...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Derek and Jason’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well. It is on the short side for me @ 259 pages in my kindle app.
Instalove: No, friendship to love.
H1 (Hero #1) rating: 3 stars. Derek. He was alright. I felt bad for what he previously went through but I don’t think I really connected with him.
H2 (Hero #2) rating: 3 stars. Jason. He was also just alright. I didn’t feel like I really connected with him either.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had alright closure with what I would call a HFN ending . But, again, it wasn’t enough closure for me.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
June 25, 2018
4 Stars
Strong Side is a low-angst college sports romance, featuring a sweet and steamy romance between two burgeoning young football stars.
The story follows presumably straight quarterback Jason Hawkins as he befriends and eventually falls for his new teammate Derek Griffin.
The transition from friends-to-lovers was fairly effortless as far as these things go, which was greatly appreciated on my part. For me, Jason and Derek’s friendship and comradery was just as sweet as their budding romance – call me a sucker for a good best-friends-to-lovers story and all that it entails.
There is some delicious sexual discovery in this one, too, with Jason acknowledging and then fully embracing his newly realised bisexuality with apparent ease. Although there was potential for this to be quite an angsty turning point in Jason’s life, thankfully things didn’t go that way. Instead, Jason was extremely adaptive to his developing feelings towards Derek, owning his bisexuality as a new and exciting part of himself that he would embrace without fear or shame; an aspect of himself he would be proud of.
As far as college themed sports romances go, this one was sweet and endearing and really well paced. I liked both Derek and Jason as characters, and I even enjoyed a few of the side characters, including their supportive teammates, whom I’m sure we’ll see more of later in the series.
As far as I could tell, the only downside to this story was in the editing issues I encountered. There were more than a few noticeable grammatical errors, including countless misspelled and misplaced words, which distracted from the story on more than one occasion. Although, I hear this book was the author’s first release and is a self-published work, so I can’t be overly critical considering I enjoyed most everything else about the story – so much so that I’ll eagerly forge forward with the rest of this series when I can.
Strong Side is a low-angst college sports romance, featuring a sweet and steamy romance between two burgeoning young football stars.
The story follows presumably straight quarterback Jason Hawkins as he befriends and eventually falls for his new teammate Derek Griffin.
The transition from friends-to-lovers was fairly effortless as far as these things go, which was greatly appreciated on my part. For me, Jason and Derek’s friendship and comradery was just as sweet as their budding romance – call me a sucker for a good best-friends-to-lovers story and all that it entails.
There is some delicious sexual discovery in this one, too, with Jason acknowledging and then fully embracing his newly realised bisexuality with apparent ease. Although there was potential for this to be quite an angsty turning point in Jason’s life, thankfully things didn’t go that way. Instead, Jason was extremely adaptive to his developing feelings towards Derek, owning his bisexuality as a new and exciting part of himself that he would embrace without fear or shame; an aspect of himself he would be proud of.
As far as college themed sports romances go, this one was sweet and endearing and really well paced. I liked both Derek and Jason as characters, and I even enjoyed a few of the side characters, including their supportive teammates, whom I’m sure we’ll see more of later in the series.
As far as I could tell, the only downside to this story was in the editing issues I encountered. There were more than a few noticeable grammatical errors, including countless misspelled and misplaced words, which distracted from the story on more than one occasion. Although, I hear this book was the author’s first release and is a self-published work, so I can’t be overly critical considering I enjoyed most everything else about the story – so much so that I’ll eagerly forge forward with the rest of this series when I can.
August 29, 2016
Me ha gustado mucho más de lo que me esperaba, quizás porque esperaba muy poco. Historia de amor entre dos jugadores de fútbol americano en la universidad, uno gay y otro bisexual. Los personajes están bien retratados, tiene un nivel de angst justo, buenas escenas de sexo, y es fácil de leer, tiene los ingredientes para ser un libro perfecto para pasar un buen rato sin muchas pretensiones.
Dulce y sexy.
Dulce y sexy.
September 6, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Oddly disappointed*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
All-Star senior quarterback for Eastshore College team Jason ‘Hawk’ Hawkins (22? 23?) and the Tigers’ new receiver Derek ‘Griff’ Griffin (21) a, walk-on junior becomes friends shortly after Jason gives Derek an offer to help him come over his fear of being tackled, and Derek accept. They become fast friends, then best friends, then things starts to get blurry. Jason's straight right? Then why does he feel tingles in his stomach when watching Derek? Derek is afraid that having feelings for his best friend will mean loosing that friendship, so he tries all he can to act ‘normal’ and make sure Jason doesn't see it, however what if those feeling might be returned?
My sexuality isn't something I intend to broadcast to my teammates, but if I hadn't known I was gay before this, Hawk is the type of guy who would've definitely made me question myself.
As far as the story goes, it was cute. Easy to read, not much heaviness nor angst, pretty much a straight forward read. What bothered me was the writing of the timeline. Those constant ‘a few weeks later’, ‘the next few weeks’ and so on was annoying, because Jason and Derek got friends in those ‘weeks later’ and we didn't get to see it. I felt like I was on the outside looking in on their friendship turning to relationship. You lose the chance to see them going from awkward newly friends to comfortable best friend, and frankly, you need to see that to really connect with the characters. Also, because of how the timeline was written, it sort if felt like insta-love, when it really wasn't. Other than that, there wasn't much drama or action. Not much happened but for two people finding themselves and finding love in someone they hadn't expected; their best friend. Overall, it was a nice read, but I was disappointed. I had actually expected more. Not sure if I want to continue.
But I’m starting to feel like there’s a little more to it than that. Like we’re more than just friends who like to get off together. I want him to do things to me I’ve never even thought about before.
I think I’m starting to have feelings for my best friend.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (New Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series (Standalone?), Book One.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Jason ‘Hawk’ Hawkins.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
Read
November 12, 2022DNF @ 52% - in this case it truly is me and not the book AT ALL. I really was enjoying it a lot and the characters were so sweet, I’m just a mood reader and I think I’m just not in the mood for football anymore😭
February 26, 2016
2.5* feel it deserves rounding up to a 3* for me liking it at all, but it's not one I'll re-read so..
A nice story, but it felt slow and I was skimming soon after hitting the halfway point. There's no real drama and it didn't keep my attention. If it's a trope you enjoy - college football, friends to lovers, OFY, then definitely give it a go - this is highly likely a case of 'not you but me' - I'm not a football/college romance fan so was always going to be a tough audience.
It's written in first person present tense which nearly always feels awkward to me. And it has alternating pov, again not a favourite of mine; makes every chapter break into a definite stopping - restarting point, making it all too easy to put aside. The characters didn't feel different enough to change the voice of the story.
Saying that it's great as a debut novel, there's some editing issues that stood out but nothing too distracting. It wasn't obviously a self-pub, I've (sadly) seen worse put out by indie publishers. American's do seem to enjoy a good Stake!
So it's nice, a pleasant enough read, but nothing groundbreaking.
A nice story, but it felt slow and I was skimming soon after hitting the halfway point. There's no real drama and it didn't keep my attention. If it's a trope you enjoy - college football, friends to lovers, OFY, then definitely give it a go - this is highly likely a case of 'not you but me' - I'm not a football/college romance fan so was always going to be a tough audience.
It's written in first person present tense which nearly always feels awkward to me. And it has alternating pov, again not a favourite of mine; makes every chapter break into a definite stopping - restarting point, making it all too easy to put aside. The characters didn't feel different enough to change the voice of the story.
Saying that it's great as a debut novel, there's some editing issues that stood out but nothing too distracting. It wasn't obviously a self-pub, I've (sadly) seen worse put out by indie publishers. American's do seem to enjoy a good Stake!
So it's nice, a pleasant enough read, but nothing groundbreaking.
February 13, 2018
WOW...
I am really impressed by the talent this author showed in this book. She deftly managed to weave together friendship, sexiness, tenderness and fun into a truly awesome book. She even threw in a tiny bit of angst at a most appropriate point, even though the happy ending was never in doubt. In Jason and Derek she created a couple who seemed to fit almost at page one and I felt like I had known them forever. The football side of things were done very well... she is either a fan or knows somone who is. She is a writer to watch in the future cuz I think she will be going places, her first time gay sex scene halfway through this book was one of the sexiest, most tender and well-written that I have ever read! Overall this was an immensely satisfying and thoroughly enjoyable read. I definitely will be working my way through the rest of this series and her other books in the near future.
I am really impressed by the talent this author showed in this book. She deftly managed to weave together friendship, sexiness, tenderness and fun into a truly awesome book. She even threw in a tiny bit of angst at a most appropriate point, even though the happy ending was never in doubt. In Jason and Derek she created a couple who seemed to fit almost at page one and I felt like I had known them forever. The football side of things were done very well... she is either a fan or knows somone who is. She is a writer to watch in the future cuz I think she will be going places, her first time gay sex scene halfway through this book was one of the sexiest, most tender and well-written that I have ever read! Overall this was an immensely satisfying and thoroughly enjoyable read. I definitely will be working my way through the rest of this series and her other books in the near future.
May 26, 2016
Not in the mood for an extensive review today.
I liked it. The boys were sweet. A tiny bit of angst. Hot sex. Great HEA.
I liked it. The boys were sweet. A tiny bit of angst. Hot sex. Great HEA.
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