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Irresistible #4
Hothead
He's the hottest player in Major League Baseball, the most notorious playboy in all of Manhattan...
And my fake fiancé for the next three months.
...
I was drunk-dialing my ex the night I met him.
Six-three, sexy as sin and so incredibly rude I could smack the asshole smirk right off his face. Long story short, we got off to a bad start. But when the tabloids interpret our sparring as Drew Maddox "groveling" with a "mystery brunette," his agent presents us both a proposal:
Shacking up as a couple this summer.
It’s an alleged “win-win.” I need to prove to my ex that I'm fine. Drew needs to prove to his team that he's stable. Thanks to his on-field brawling and never-ending lady drama, Drew Maddox has suddenly found himself on the trade block - which means he needs a fast, easy way to show the team that he's settled down.
Hence this fiance thing.
Our fights are real, our kisses are fake, and thanks to the nonstop heat between us, I’m starting to mix up all my signs. But whether it’s real or fake, there’s one thing I do know:
I’m already addicted.
*** HOTHEAD is a standalone in the Irresistible Series ***
Sweet Spot - Lukas & Lia
Bad Boss - Julian & Sara
Dirty Deeds - Emmett & Aly
Hothead - Drew & Evie
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2018
About the author
Stella Rhys
13 books2,016 followersStella Rhys is a romance author who lives for baseball season, Irish coffees and Love Island UK. She was born and raised in New York and when she isn't writing, you can find her with her family and friends, scouring the city in search of her next book-inspiring adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 728 reviews
November 24, 2021
***4.5 STARS***
Stella Rhys does it again with this sizzling hot, emotionally filled love story bringing two strangers together for a desired mutual goal.
Evie has just broken up with her boyfriend of many many years and she is at her best friend's engagement party. She is in a bad way still wanting an explanation from her ex as to why he broke up with her and how great they would be back together. Drew overhears her on the phone and calls her out on her moment of weakness. Fireworks fly and the two get into a bit of a discussion which lands them on the front page of the tabloids the next day because Drew is also a famous baseball pitcher. So because Drew is such a bad boy and gets into fights constantly his PR team creates this "fauxmance" to show a softer side of Drew. Evie goes along for her own reasons which you will have to read about.
This story was so engrossing. Stella Rhys has mastered the craft of creating the alpha hero without him being either a pushover or an asshole. Drew definitely exudes confidence and sexual swagger and the heat between these two had my IPAD burning. The chemistry was off the charts and Drew is a bit of a dirty talker too. He was the total package with also the emotional baggage that comes along with the tortured hero.
I am definitely skipping around in this series and the books can be read as stand-alones but I am going back through them one at a time because the characters do reoccur throughout the series. Although not as good as Reckless, this one was a solid read and I highly recommend.
Stella Rhys does it again with this sizzling hot, emotionally filled love story bringing two strangers together for a desired mutual goal.
Evie has just broken up with her boyfriend of many many years and she is at her best friend's engagement party. She is in a bad way still wanting an explanation from her ex as to why he broke up with her and how great they would be back together. Drew overhears her on the phone and calls her out on her moment of weakness. Fireworks fly and the two get into a bit of a discussion which lands them on the front page of the tabloids the next day because Drew is also a famous baseball pitcher. So because Drew is such a bad boy and gets into fights constantly his PR team creates this "fauxmance" to show a softer side of Drew. Evie goes along for her own reasons which you will have to read about.
This story was so engrossing. Stella Rhys has mastered the craft of creating the alpha hero without him being either a pushover or an asshole. Drew definitely exudes confidence and sexual swagger and the heat between these two had my IPAD burning. The chemistry was off the charts and Drew is a bit of a dirty talker too. He was the total package with also the emotional baggage that comes along with the tortured hero.
I am definitely skipping around in this series and the books can be read as stand-alones but I am going back through them one at a time because the characters do reoccur throughout the series. Although not as good as Reckless, this one was a solid read and I highly recommend.
April 14, 2018
4.5
I would like to thank Stella Rhys for keeping me up all night long reading. I hold her totally responsible for my lack of sleep. Her writing is just too damn good! How can I be expected to control myself under those conditions? My Friday wasn't the least bit productive due to me being a walking zombie and all, but I guess I can't really complain. I had such a great time reading Hothead that it seems like a fair trade off. Sleep is for the weak anyway!
Drew Maddox and Evie Larsen meet at a party for Evie's best friend. Evie is in the process of leaving an embarassingly drunken message on her ex-fiances voice mail when Drew approaches her with some advice. Heated banter, neck licking, and sexy lip biting ensues, and before you know it, the tabloids are saying that Drew and Evie are in a relationship.
Drew is a star baseball player, but his team is seriously thinking about trading him due to his hothead ways. His agent, Iain, thinks having a steady relationship and settling down might make the team see that he is changing for the better. He advises Drew to get Evie to agree to pretend to be in a relationship with him, but makes him promise not to sleep with her. Iain doesn't want him to do anything to jeopardize the arrangement.
To Drew's surprise, Evie accepts his proposition rather quickly. She needs a place to stay now that her fiance left her and took their new apartment. Not only that, but as Drew points out, seeing her with him might be just the thing to make her ex come around.
Drew and Evie's fake relationship gets real...real quick. They both want each other badly, and as time goes on, reasons to hold out seems less and less convincing. The only problem is Drew doesn't do relationships period. He ices out everyone that tries to get close to him. Will Evie wind up with frostbite just as things between the two of them really start to heat up?
I first met Drew in Dirty Deeds and fell in love with him immediately. I've been patiently waiting for his book ever since, and even with all my expectations, it did not disappoint in the slightest! He's cocky in more ways than one (if you know what I'm saying 😏), charming, talented, sexy af, and nothing but solid muscle. I dare you not to fall for Drew! Bottomline, I added a new book boyfriend to my collection! I'll leave it at that.
Evie is Drew's perfect match. At first, I worried she would irritate me pining over her ex all the time or that she would be a weak, and we all know how much I hate a weak heroine. She completely surprised me though! I wound up absolutely loving her, and I have no doubts you will, too.
These two together are pure perfection! You will need a fan, some water, and some new panties, because Hothead is hot af!! Stella has sexual tension down to an art! I'm not exaggerating in the least. You can literally feel everything the characters feel. When Evie's heart starts beating faster, yours will, too, and that's not the only physical response you'll have reading her exchanges with Drew either! On second thought, maybe you should have more than one pair of panties on hand. You might need them! On top of their insane chemistry, Drew and Evie bring out the best in each other. I smiled and swooned the whole way through their story.
Every single time I open a book by this author, I know without a doubt that I'm going to enjoy it. That isn't something I can say for almost anyone. If you've never read a book by Stella Rhys, this is a great time to start! She has several spectacular books out there for you to choose from, but this is definitely one of my favorites! Hothead is well-written, captivating, steamy, heartwarming, and fun! I recommend it to every romance fan!
ARC generously provided for an honest review.
I would like to thank Stella Rhys for keeping me up all night long reading. I hold her totally responsible for my lack of sleep. Her writing is just too damn good! How can I be expected to control myself under those conditions? My Friday wasn't the least bit productive due to me being a walking zombie and all, but I guess I can't really complain. I had such a great time reading Hothead that it seems like a fair trade off. Sleep is for the weak anyway!
Drew Maddox and Evie Larsen meet at a party for Evie's best friend. Evie is in the process of leaving an embarassingly drunken message on her ex-fiances voice mail when Drew approaches her with some advice. Heated banter, neck licking, and sexy lip biting ensues, and before you know it, the tabloids are saying that Drew and Evie are in a relationship.
Drew is a star baseball player, but his team is seriously thinking about trading him due to his hothead ways. His agent, Iain, thinks having a steady relationship and settling down might make the team see that he is changing for the better. He advises Drew to get Evie to agree to pretend to be in a relationship with him, but makes him promise not to sleep with her. Iain doesn't want him to do anything to jeopardize the arrangement.
To Drew's surprise, Evie accepts his proposition rather quickly. She needs a place to stay now that her fiance left her and took their new apartment. Not only that, but as Drew points out, seeing her with him might be just the thing to make her ex come around.
Drew and Evie's fake relationship gets real...real quick. They both want each other badly, and as time goes on, reasons to hold out seems less and less convincing. The only problem is Drew doesn't do relationships period. He ices out everyone that tries to get close to him. Will Evie wind up with frostbite just as things between the two of them really start to heat up?
I first met Drew in Dirty Deeds and fell in love with him immediately. I've been patiently waiting for his book ever since, and even with all my expectations, it did not disappoint in the slightest! He's cocky in more ways than one (if you know what I'm saying 😏), charming, talented, sexy af, and nothing but solid muscle. I dare you not to fall for Drew! Bottomline, I added a new book boyfriend to my collection! I'll leave it at that.
Evie is Drew's perfect match. At first, I worried she would irritate me pining over her ex all the time or that she would be a weak, and we all know how much I hate a weak heroine. She completely surprised me though! I wound up absolutely loving her, and I have no doubts you will, too.
These two together are pure perfection! You will need a fan, some water, and some new panties, because Hothead is hot af!! Stella has sexual tension down to an art! I'm not exaggerating in the least. You can literally feel everything the characters feel. When Evie's heart starts beating faster, yours will, too, and that's not the only physical response you'll have reading her exchanges with Drew either! On second thought, maybe you should have more than one pair of panties on hand. You might need them! On top of their insane chemistry, Drew and Evie bring out the best in each other. I smiled and swooned the whole way through their story.
Every single time I open a book by this author, I know without a doubt that I'm going to enjoy it. That isn't something I can say for almost anyone. If you've never read a book by Stella Rhys, this is a great time to start! She has several spectacular books out there for you to choose from, but this is definitely one of my favorites! Hothead is well-written, captivating, steamy, heartwarming, and fun! I recommend it to every romance fan!
ARC generously provided for an honest review.
March 29, 2018
Lord. Stella Rhys has done it again. I swear to God her novels are like Christmas for me as I can't wait to dive in and read all the sexy goodness. They are just so amazing, intense, hot AF, romantic and filled with unexpected surprises. I absolutely FLOVED Drew and Evie as they had allll the sexy chemistry and banter. She gave as good as she got and willingly showed Drew who was boss. I am so not ready to let them go! I loved them so much!!
Anyone who knows me knowssss that Enemies to Lovers romance is my favorite trope of all time. There is something about the fiery back and forth dialogue and banter that gets me going and my unnatural obsession with Alpha-holes does not help either. Well enter Drew Maddox, baseball's #1 Badboy and Playboy who has gotten a bad reputation for his antics on and off the field. He needs a quick fix to show the world he is settled and a changed man. Enter Evie Larsen, the perfect woman to play his fake fiance while taking a much needed break from her own life. Good Lord people. Get ready!!! They will blow your mind!
Gahh!! I loveeed this book. Drew was my favorite hero in this series HANDS DOWN. I thought Stella killed it with Emmett but nope Drew took the cake. He was a dick on and off the field and made no excuses for it. He was PURE SEX ON A STICK and met his match in Evie. I loved how the author was able to successfully balance both Drew's A-Hole personality with his vulnerable side deep down inside. It felt organic and real and I loved every word. Likewise Evie was sassy and real and what you see is what you get. I loved how she saw through Drew's badboy exterior to the good man inside but wasn't afraid to bring him to his knees when necessary. Last but not least, this wouldn't be a Stella Rhys book without the scorching AF sexytimes. She is the legit boss when it comes to burning the house down with allllll the dirty talk and more. But be warned though, kindles will singe and nine months from now, baby Stellas may result LOL.
This author always has the most amazing storylines but one of my favorite aspects of Hothead was the bromance between Emmett and Drew and the sisterhood between Aly and Evie. It was so fantastic seeing them after Dirty Deeds and I for one am not ready to let them all go!! Bring on Iain's book (I hope!!) Bravo Stella! You did the damn thing! 5 stars!! ~Ratula
Anyone who knows me knowssss that Enemies to Lovers romance is my favorite trope of all time. There is something about the fiery back and forth dialogue and banter that gets me going and my unnatural obsession with Alpha-holes does not help either. Well enter Drew Maddox, baseball's #1 Badboy and Playboy who has gotten a bad reputation for his antics on and off the field. He needs a quick fix to show the world he is settled and a changed man. Enter Evie Larsen, the perfect woman to play his fake fiance while taking a much needed break from her own life. Good Lord people. Get ready!!! They will blow your mind!
Gahh!! I loveeed this book. Drew was my favorite hero in this series HANDS DOWN. I thought Stella killed it with Emmett but nope Drew took the cake. He was a dick on and off the field and made no excuses for it. He was PURE SEX ON A STICK and met his match in Evie. I loved how the author was able to successfully balance both Drew's A-Hole personality with his vulnerable side deep down inside. It felt organic and real and I loved every word. Likewise Evie was sassy and real and what you see is what you get. I loved how she saw through Drew's badboy exterior to the good man inside but wasn't afraid to bring him to his knees when necessary. Last but not least, this wouldn't be a Stella Rhys book without the scorching AF sexytimes. She is the legit boss when it comes to burning the house down with allllll the dirty talk and more. But be warned though, kindles will singe and nine months from now, baby Stellas may result LOL.
This author always has the most amazing storylines but one of my favorite aspects of Hothead was the bromance between Emmett and Drew and the sisterhood between Aly and Evie. It was so fantastic seeing them after Dirty Deeds and I for one am not ready to let them all go!! Bring on Iain's book (I hope!!) Bravo Stella! You did the damn thing! 5 stars!! ~Ratula
June 23, 2020
Standalone Series Order
#1 – Sweet Spot – Lukas and Lia
#2 – Bad Boss – Julian and Sara
#3 – Dirty Deeds – Emmett and Aly
#4 – Hothead – Drew and Evie
#5 – Now or Never – Iain and Holland
Rating
4 ‘babe vs. baby’ 🌟
Song Recommendation
The way Drew falls for Evie in this book, I think, is amazingly conveyed by the song Haan Tu Hai. Here is the English translation for anyone interested.
Review
Drew Maddox, the golden boy of the Empires baseball team, has a certain reputation that precedes him. They liked to think of me as reckless. Impulsive. Thoroughly lacking in self-control. They saw the fights, the temper. The times I mouthed off to the umps and got my ass fined five figures in one shot. So, according to his agent Iain, he needs to pretend that he has settled down and changed his reckless playboy persona to keep playing for his team. Drew finds his solution in a girl drunk-dialing her ex-boyfriend at a club.
“Did you really show up just to interrupt my private conversation?”
“I’m pretty sure a conversation involves two parties…Not one drunk girl rambling to the voicemail of a guy who’s moved on with his life.
Evie Larson is devastated when her boyfriend of 10 years breaks up with her. On the day they are supposed to move into their new house. But she is determined not to let this stop her from attending her best friend and the female MC from previous book’s, Aly’s, birthday party at a club. Once at the club, she breaks down and records a rambling voicemail when a stranger stops her, quite rudely. Drew and Evie start off on the wrong foot at the party, but it seems like Drew is pining over Evie. This incident kickstarts fake dating and fake engagement, but real attraction and real feelings.
I kind of liked Drew Maddox.
He was an arrogant jock and everything I knew to avoid in a man, but I enjoyed his company. In fact, I was beyond attracted to him.
Which meant the next three months of resisting him were about to be chaos.
Having read Stella Rhys books in the past, I know the insta-lust between Drew and Evie was given. But what made this book a compelling read was the push and pull (and the resulting angst) between Drew and Evie. Evie is broken because her 10 year old relationship just ended and Drew is emotionally unavailable due to his haunting past so it was riveting to read about how they overcome their issues and choose to want to be with each other.
“…in fact, if anyone told me you would happen one day and asked if I wanted to avoid that, I’d say yes a thousand times over, because I have a job to do, a team to lead and a fucking ring to win. But now that you’re here, now that I’ve felt you and I know what it’s like not to have you, I can’t stand for that either because I fucking miss you, alright?” Drew demanded. “I want you to come back to me.”
Overall, it was an amazing book. It would have been my favorite of the series had it not been for the twist at the end. It just felt…off and I can’t get over it. Other than that, I think Stella Rhys pulled off the whole ‘want to be with you, but you are not right for me’ situation and their sexy banter amazingly. And Stella Rhys evidently knows how to write intimate scenes and sexual tension because it was 🔥 in this book! Hothead was definitely an entertaining read and I can’t wait to read the next book.
#1 – Sweet Spot – Lukas and Lia
#2 – Bad Boss – Julian and Sara
#3 – Dirty Deeds – Emmett and Aly
#4 – Hothead – Drew and Evie
#5 – Now or Never – Iain and Holland
Rating
4 ‘babe vs. baby’ 🌟
Song Recommendation
The way Drew falls for Evie in this book, I think, is amazingly conveyed by the song Haan Tu Hai. Here is the English translation for anyone interested.
Review
Drew Maddox, the golden boy of the Empires baseball team, has a certain reputation that precedes him. They liked to think of me as reckless. Impulsive. Thoroughly lacking in self-control. They saw the fights, the temper. The times I mouthed off to the umps and got my ass fined five figures in one shot. So, according to his agent Iain, he needs to pretend that he has settled down and changed his reckless playboy persona to keep playing for his team. Drew finds his solution in a girl drunk-dialing her ex-boyfriend at a club.
“Did you really show up just to interrupt my private conversation?”
“I’m pretty sure a conversation involves two parties…Not one drunk girl rambling to the voicemail of a guy who’s moved on with his life.
Evie Larson is devastated when her boyfriend of 10 years breaks up with her. On the day they are supposed to move into their new house. But she is determined not to let this stop her from attending her best friend and the female MC from previous book’s, Aly’s, birthday party at a club. Once at the club, she breaks down and records a rambling voicemail when a stranger stops her, quite rudely. Drew and Evie start off on the wrong foot at the party, but it seems like Drew is pining over Evie. This incident kickstarts fake dating and fake engagement, but real attraction and real feelings.
I kind of liked Drew Maddox.
He was an arrogant jock and everything I knew to avoid in a man, but I enjoyed his company. In fact, I was beyond attracted to him.
Which meant the next three months of resisting him were about to be chaos.
Having read Stella Rhys books in the past, I know the insta-lust between Drew and Evie was given. But what made this book a compelling read was the push and pull (and the resulting angst) between Drew and Evie. Evie is broken because her 10 year old relationship just ended and Drew is emotionally unavailable due to his haunting past so it was riveting to read about how they overcome their issues and choose to want to be with each other.
“…in fact, if anyone told me you would happen one day and asked if I wanted to avoid that, I’d say yes a thousand times over, because I have a job to do, a team to lead and a fucking ring to win. But now that you’re here, now that I’ve felt you and I know what it’s like not to have you, I can’t stand for that either because I fucking miss you, alright?” Drew demanded. “I want you to come back to me.”
Overall, it was an amazing book. It would have been my favorite of the series had it not been for the twist at the end. It just felt…off and I can’t get over it. Other than that, I think Stella Rhys pulled off the whole ‘want to be with you, but you are not right for me’ situation and their sexy banter amazingly. And Stella Rhys evidently knows how to write intimate scenes and sexual tension because it was 🔥 in this book! Hothead was definitely an entertaining read and I can’t wait to read the next book.
October 10, 2021
Came for the sports romance and fake fiancée trope and stayed for the best banter I've read in a long time.
Come on peaches, don't be shy, this was surprisingly good! 🍑
Come on peaches, don't be shy, this was surprisingly good! 🍑
April 8, 2018
★4.5★
Hothead is a passionate contemporary romance with complex characters, sports action, and smoking hot steam! The fourth book in the Irresistible Series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
Overall, I highly recommend Hothead to anyone who enjoys a steamy contemporary romance with endearing characters and baseball! Stella Rhys is an expert storyteller with her alpha male heroes and their spirited other halves and Hothead is just another gem that is not to be missed!
***Irresistible Series***
*ARC graciously provided in exchange for an honest review!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"Do you want to come on my hand or my mouth?"
Hothead is a passionate contemporary romance with complex characters, sports action, and smoking hot steam! The fourth book in the Irresistible Series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
"I'd gotten pretty damned good at the whole business of pretending."Evie Larsen is going through a bad break up. After being dumped by her boyfriend, she is struggling to get her life back on track. While drunk dialing her ex, she collides with Drew Maddox. Drew is a baseball player for The Empires. Drew, a player with the ladies, is desperate to keep his professional baseball career on the right track. Known for having anger management issues and living recklessly, his agent formulates a perfect plan to get his career back on track. If Drew can establish a long-term relationship then he can prove that he has changed his ways. With Evie in need of a place to stay, Drew makes her an offer she can't refuse. But what happens when you are pretending and the feelings become real?
"She made me whole."Told in dual POV, Hothead is a steamy romance with witty text and a complex plot. The sports romance addict in me adored the baseball action and the connection between Evie and Drew was electric! As Evie gains confidence and learns to love again, Drew discovers the reward of truly trusting someone. Evie and Drew have both experienced great pain and loss in their life and discovering trust and love in each other mends their broken hearts. They share a passionate connection and as their "fake romance" transforms into something authentic and real an EPIC romance is formed. In addition to Evie and Drew, we get to catch up with one of my other favorite Rhys couples Aly and Emmett from Dirty Deeds.
Overall, I highly recommend Hothead to anyone who enjoys a steamy contemporary romance with endearing characters and baseball! Stella Rhys is an expert storyteller with her alpha male heroes and their spirited other halves and Hothead is just another gem that is not to be missed!
***Irresistible Series***
*ARC graciously provided in exchange for an honest review!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
December 17, 2021
5 “ Drew & Evie “ stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow... this was by far the best in the series. I love one hell of a angsty romance. It has felt like a roller coaster ride throughout reading this series. I have enjoyed it the most. I don’t know how long I’ll have to wait for the next one to come out, I’m just hoping it comes out soon. I’m in love with this author’s writing. It just touches your heart. She keeps you riveted to the pages.
The chemistry between Drew and Evie was off the charts hot. The constant push and pull, angst, silly arguments was so enticing. It all felt like foreplay and when they finally hit it off, I just had to fan myself. I loved their banter, it was fun to watch.
”Did you really show up just to interrupt my private conversation ?” I asked incredulously.
“I’m pretty sure a conversation involves two parties.” He looked down his nose at me. “Not one drunk girl rambling to the voicemail of a guy who’s moved on with his life.”
My jaw dropped at his nerve.
Drew was Emmett’s best friend and plays baseball professionally. He’s one of the top athletes. All we ever saw was the partying, one night stands, short tempered but there was lot beneath the surface. Evie ends up on his radar when he heard her sobbing to her ex but media catches there interaction and paints them as a couple. Since he needs to improve his image to avoid being traded, he agrees to the charade which later turns out to be the best thing to ever happened to him.
I thought he was ordering me to immediately open the door, but the second I turned, he bent me over his arm. Ripping my skirt up, he brought a brutal spank down on my ass, prompting my jaw to fall open as I slapped my hand to the door.
“Just so you know what you’re in for,” Drew said.
Evie was Aly’s best friend and just broke up with her fiancé. When she meets Drew, she hates him on sight for his arrogance and cockiness. Their view of looking at the world is poles apart but you know what they say..... opposites attract. She agrees to help him out as long as he’ll help her make her ex jealous but what she doesn’t realise is being attracted to him and falling for him.
Due to Drew’s past, he trusts no one. In the beginning it seems really harsh but when you realise how people close to him has treated him, using him for his money and wealth, you understand his outlook. Evie, on the other hand, is friendly and hopeful even though her past seems to be similar to his. I loved how she made him better and understood him and how he was with her, his actions were completely opposite of what he normally does. He couldn’t help but care for her.
It was probably 1AM when she laid on my chest and whispered my name. I opened my eyes to see her looking up at me, and she gazed at me for another few seconds before murmuring, “I love you.”
I loved their journey how it turned from being fake to so real. It was filled with ups and down but worth it in the end. As much as I love Julian, Drew is a close competition.🤩 I didn’t really want this book to end. Stella has definitely got me anxious for the next book, the blurb sounds amazing. I can’t wait for it to come out.
Highly recommended. ♥️
Wow... this was by far the best in the series. I love one hell of a angsty romance. It has felt like a roller coaster ride throughout reading this series. I have enjoyed it the most. I don’t know how long I’ll have to wait for the next one to come out, I’m just hoping it comes out soon. I’m in love with this author’s writing. It just touches your heart. She keeps you riveted to the pages.
The chemistry between Drew and Evie was off the charts hot. The constant push and pull, angst, silly arguments was so enticing. It all felt like foreplay and when they finally hit it off, I just had to fan myself. I loved their banter, it was fun to watch.
”Did you really show up just to interrupt my private conversation ?” I asked incredulously.
“I’m pretty sure a conversation involves two parties.” He looked down his nose at me. “Not one drunk girl rambling to the voicemail of a guy who’s moved on with his life.”
My jaw dropped at his nerve.
Drew was Emmett’s best friend and plays baseball professionally. He’s one of the top athletes. All we ever saw was the partying, one night stands, short tempered but there was lot beneath the surface. Evie ends up on his radar when he heard her sobbing to her ex but media catches there interaction and paints them as a couple. Since he needs to improve his image to avoid being traded, he agrees to the charade which later turns out to be the best thing to ever happened to him.
I thought he was ordering me to immediately open the door, but the second I turned, he bent me over his arm. Ripping my skirt up, he brought a brutal spank down on my ass, prompting my jaw to fall open as I slapped my hand to the door.
“Just so you know what you’re in for,” Drew said.
Evie was Aly’s best friend and just broke up with her fiancé. When she meets Drew, she hates him on sight for his arrogance and cockiness. Their view of looking at the world is poles apart but you know what they say..... opposites attract. She agrees to help him out as long as he’ll help her make her ex jealous but what she doesn’t realise is being attracted to him and falling for him.
Due to Drew’s past, he trusts no one. In the beginning it seems really harsh but when you realise how people close to him has treated him, using him for his money and wealth, you understand his outlook. Evie, on the other hand, is friendly and hopeful even though her past seems to be similar to his. I loved how she made him better and understood him and how he was with her, his actions were completely opposite of what he normally does. He couldn’t help but care for her.
It was probably 1AM when she laid on my chest and whispered my name. I opened my eyes to see her looking up at me, and she gazed at me for another few seconds before murmuring, “I love you.”
I loved their journey how it turned from being fake to so real. It was filled with ups and down but worth it in the end. As much as I love Julian, Drew is a close competition.🤩 I didn’t really want this book to end. Stella has definitely got me anxious for the next book, the blurb sounds amazing. I can’t wait for it to come out.
Highly recommended. ♥️
July 2, 2020
4,5 stars
Loooovee this.
Funny, sexy, hot and perfect book for my current mood.
Drew Maddox has trust issues and a very sad way of regarding life: don’t let anyone close, don’t trust anyone, don’t get attached. But Evie just got under his skin like nobody’s business!
She is passing thru a hard breakup after a 9 years old relationship and the deal with Drew is exactly what she needs to get her mind off of things , plus other benefits too (wink 😉).
Their attraction and sexual tension is HOT and obviously they cannot keep their hand off eachother.
A must read for fans of baseball/sports romance lovers♥️😬
Loooovee this.
Funny, sexy, hot and perfect book for my current mood.
Drew Maddox has trust issues and a very sad way of regarding life: don’t let anyone close, don’t trust anyone, don’t get attached. But Evie just got under his skin like nobody’s business!
She is passing thru a hard breakup after a 9 years old relationship and the deal with Drew is exactly what she needs to get her mind off of things , plus other benefits too (wink 😉).
Their attraction and sexual tension is HOT and obviously they cannot keep their hand off eachother.
A must read for fans of baseball/sports romance lovers♥️😬
April 16, 2018
For me this author is so special like a unicorn like Jessica says.
Drew is kind of an ass with trust issues.
Evie is sweet, maybe a bit naive but that isn't really a good name for it.
I felt true hate for Mike and Hilary
I instantly liked this story and these characters. The only thing I kind of missed was that Drew didn't mention the truth. I also wanted more closure in the Mike/Hilary department, actually no I don't ever want to read about them!. Also Evie her sister that would've been nice a bit more about those.
Drew is kind of an ass with trust issues.
Evie is sweet, maybe a bit naive but that isn't really a good name for it.
I felt true hate for Mike and Hilary
I instantly liked this story and these characters. The only thing I kind of missed was that Drew didn't mention the truth. I also wanted more closure in the Mike/Hilary department, actually no I don't ever want to read about them!. Also Evie her sister that would've been nice a bit more about those.
April 30, 2023
I did not expect to leave this book impressed with things like nuance, multifaceted characters, and presence of HEART. It was just MATURE. The characters were NORMAL—normal, contemplative, mature adults. The circumstances weren't necessarily relatable (unless you hoes are out here fake dating professional athletes for personal and/or PR reasons), but the portrayal of the human experience was. I love when stories are hot and also heartfelt. Stella Rhys put her entire heart AND pussy into this one.
April 11, 2018
4.25 Stars
Loved it! Full review coming atcha soonish.
Loved it! Full review coming atcha soonish.
November 20, 2021
I thought it was going to be average.
But me likey.
✋😌✋
But me likey.
✋😌✋
October 21, 2021
I love a sexy athlete who only has eyes for his woman
Oh man. This book was not only steamy, but it was also swoooony! And although we have a reformed player who doesn’t do relationships, he ends up being extremely faithful to his woman, even in his thoughts. Not all players are players 💁🏻♀️💅👏🏻.
Evie is coming out of a long relationship. She has known her ex-boyfriend for a long time, since she was a child. They essentially grew up together and eventually got into a serious relationship. But it’s been a while since they’ve been intimate and their relationship has gone stale. They were finally moving into a new place and that’s when he tells her that he needs time away from her, and they shouldn’t be together. She’s blindsided but doesn’t want to give up on them. When she goes to an event, she’s outside talking to his voicemail when Drew, MLB pitcher for the New York Empires, overhears her. He tells her that she needs to stop begging, which triggers her to tell him off. Of course, he becomes cocky with her and lets her know that he could please her by barely touching her, and he does 🥵🔥😅.
Drew is a hothead. He tends to get triggered (fights and arguments) and it might cost him his career. When he’s seen talking to Evie at the restaurant, they get photographed and people think that they’re together. He gets called in by his agent and is advised to pretend he’s in a serious relationship with her, even as far as being engaged, or else his position with the New York Empires will be at risk (he’ll get traded). Since he doesn’t want this happening, he agrees, and now he has to convince Evie to go along with this.
It doesn’t take much to convince her though because they have such intense chemistry going on. Plus, this is a way for Evie to get back at her ex for breaking up with her. If he sees that she’s moved on so quickly, her ex will get possessive and want her back, and Drew will keep his job.
They get a contract going an agree to a few things- be romantic in public, live together, and they must do this for three months. Drew can’t have sex with anyone, including her (since she’ll get upset when they “break up” three months from now) and they must keep the farce up to convince the world of their love. But do you think they listen? 😅
Their connection is intense- they can’t help gravitating towards each other, even when they’re alone. From touches, to glances, to possessiveness, to massages and rub downs, these two have more chemistry than a science lab🥵🔥. Even when they agreed to “not go too far and touch each other” when they’re alone, they break the rules, and every single time is delicious 😅💦🔥. Jeeezus it was explosive 🔥. The confidence he exudes is so sexy (from their almost-kiss to the spanking/edging scene 🔥🥵).
But besides the physical connection, the emotional connection that develops is more important. Drew has a REALLY hard time trusting people- to the point that he only really has a handful of people he confides in. He’s been burned before because of his status/career, and that’s something he needs to work on. Although Evie doesn’t open up to people often, the way they get close is organic and believable. Gawd- I loved it 🥺❤️.
Now I need to read all the other books in the series.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no owd/cheating/sharing
-mild omd- the h talks to her ex a few times, even confronting him because of their breakup and the things she finds out. The H and OM have words, but it doesn’t really put a damper of the H and h’s relationship. When the OM tries to make fun of the H for a bad game, the h steps up and defends the H, being as feisty with her words and her actions.
-there’s a scene where there are girl fans taking pictures with the H, but it’s not a big deal to either character (the H gets irritated though and just wants to touch the h and get away from the fans)
Oh man. This book was not only steamy, but it was also swoooony! And although we have a reformed player who doesn’t do relationships, he ends up being extremely faithful to his woman, even in his thoughts. Not all players are players 💁🏻♀️💅👏🏻.
Evie is coming out of a long relationship. She has known her ex-boyfriend for a long time, since she was a child. They essentially grew up together and eventually got into a serious relationship. But it’s been a while since they’ve been intimate and their relationship has gone stale. They were finally moving into a new place and that’s when he tells her that he needs time away from her, and they shouldn’t be together. She’s blindsided but doesn’t want to give up on them. When she goes to an event, she’s outside talking to his voicemail when Drew, MLB pitcher for the New York Empires, overhears her. He tells her that she needs to stop begging, which triggers her to tell him off. Of course, he becomes cocky with her and lets her know that he could please her by barely touching her, and he does 🥵🔥😅.
Drew is a hothead. He tends to get triggered (fights and arguments) and it might cost him his career. When he’s seen talking to Evie at the restaurant, they get photographed and people think that they’re together. He gets called in by his agent and is advised to pretend he’s in a serious relationship with her, even as far as being engaged, or else his position with the New York Empires will be at risk (he’ll get traded). Since he doesn’t want this happening, he agrees, and now he has to convince Evie to go along with this.
It doesn’t take much to convince her though because they have such intense chemistry going on. Plus, this is a way for Evie to get back at her ex for breaking up with her. If he sees that she’s moved on so quickly, her ex will get possessive and want her back, and Drew will keep his job.
They get a contract going an agree to a few things- be romantic in public, live together, and they must do this for three months. Drew can’t have sex with anyone, including her (since she’ll get upset when they “break up” three months from now) and they must keep the farce up to convince the world of their love. But do you think they listen? 😅
Their connection is intense- they can’t help gravitating towards each other, even when they’re alone. From touches, to glances, to possessiveness, to massages and rub downs, these two have more chemistry than a science lab🥵🔥. Even when they agreed to “not go too far and touch each other” when they’re alone, they break the rules, and every single time is delicious 😅💦🔥. Jeeezus it was explosive 🔥. The confidence he exudes is so sexy (from their almost-kiss to the spanking/edging scene 🔥🥵).
But besides the physical connection, the emotional connection that develops is more important. Drew has a REALLY hard time trusting people- to the point that he only really has a handful of people he confides in. He’s been burned before because of his status/career, and that’s something he needs to work on. Although Evie doesn’t open up to people often, the way they get close is organic and believable. Gawd- I loved it 🥺❤️.
Now I need to read all the other books in the series.
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no owd/cheating/sharing
-mild omd- the h talks to her ex a few times, even confronting him because of their breakup and the things she finds out. The H and OM have words, but it doesn’t really put a damper of the H and h’s relationship. When the OM tries to make fun of the H for a bad game, the h steps up and defends the H, being as feisty with her words and her actions.
-there’s a scene where there are girl fans taking pictures with the H, but it’s not a big deal to either character (the H gets irritated though and just wants to touch the h and get away from the fans)
November 7, 2022
3 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The sexy times -- it was pretty steamy! The banter was pretty good too.
The Not-So-Good: The lack of development of stronger feelings on page. I wanted to understand the progression more! I also thought the ending could've been much, much better! I also want to add that I would've liked for the h not to fall for the H's sexual powers so easily (even though it was hot).
The Bad: How so many people were just horrible! The ex bf, the surrogate mother/brother figures, the ex gf, the hecklers, the h's sister...
Overall: This was cute, but I don't think it'll be all that memorable in the long run. It was steamy! Otherwise, I felt like there was potential for this to be deeper with some of the heavier topics -- but it just fell a little flat. Just an okay read for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Evie and Drew's story. They meet as friends of friends and Drew's manager drops a bomb on Drew that his baseball team is about to trade him if he doesn't get his act together, and he thinks Evie is the solution. Drew goes along with it and ends up propositioning Evie to be his fake girlfriend and then fiancé after they are photographed together. Evie agrees because she needs to get her ex to take notice of what he is missing after dumping her after ~9 years together. They put on a good show, lines get crossed, feelings develop, and some hot sexy times commence...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Evie and Drew's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. While it didn't happen super quickly, it did feel kind of sudden for some reason. It just seemed to go from some sexy times to deeper feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Drew. I understood that he was damaged from people in his past but I didn't like how completely he was walled off from others.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Evie. I did like her, but I also wanted to shake her at times for letting others mistreat her and being hypnotized by the H's hotness.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot 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: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place but with what I would call a HFN ending , and I think it could've been better.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The sexy times -- it was pretty steamy! The banter was pretty good too.
The Not-So-Good: The lack of development of stronger feelings on page. I wanted to understand the progression more! I also thought the ending could've been much, much better! I also want to add that I would've liked for the h not to fall for the H's sexual powers so easily (even though it was hot).
The Bad: How so many people were just horrible! The ex bf, the surrogate mother/brother figures, the ex gf, the hecklers, the h's sister...
Overall: This was cute, but I don't think it'll be all that memorable in the long run. It was steamy! Otherwise, I felt like there was potential for this to be deeper with some of the heavier topics -- but it just fell a little flat. Just an okay read for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Evie and Drew's story. They meet as friends of friends and Drew's manager drops a bomb on Drew that his baseball team is about to trade him if he doesn't get his act together, and he thinks Evie is the solution. Drew goes along with it and ends up propositioning Evie to be his fake girlfriend and then fiancé after they are photographed together. Evie agrees because she needs to get her ex to take notice of what he is missing after dumping her after ~9 years together. They put on a good show, lines get crossed, feelings develop, and some hot sexy times commence...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Evie and Drew's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. While it didn't happen super quickly, it did feel kind of sudden for some reason. It just seemed to go from some sexy times to deeper feelings.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Drew. I understood that he was damaged from people in his past but I didn't like how completely he was walled off from others.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Evie. I did like her, but I also wanted to shake her at times for letting others mistreat her and being hypnotized by the H's hotness.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot 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: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in a good place but with what I would call a HFN ending , and I think it could've been better.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Read
November 5, 2021a nice read but there were more physical connection than emotional. i wouldnt call drew & evie as insta lovey, they waited a while before getting together but they also fuck (or close to it) along the way, from the v beginning, which is what im not in a mood for. overall it was v simple & tame with (imo) not much angst. still a nice read. just woulda been nicer had we gotten more depth & development between the couple. i only lost interest by 65% so 2.75 - 3 stars (goodness im nitpicky)
August 24, 2018
Good and easy read!
This was a good fake relationship read. A hotheaded hero, and a sweet and sassy heroine. They both need to use each other for different reasons, but the using ends up being more than they expect. This read is fun and easy, and although there is angst it’s easily and quickly resolved. All in all a good read if you’re looking for a fake relationship.
This was a good fake relationship read. A hotheaded hero, and a sweet and sassy heroine. They both need to use each other for different reasons, but the using ends up being more than they expect. This read is fun and easy, and although there is angst it’s easily and quickly resolved. All in all a good read if you’re looking for a fake relationship.
August 18, 2020
4.5 Stars!
It has been a few years since I read the last book in this series and I still don’t remember if the other books were this HOT or what but this book was on fire!
This is a “fake relationship” storyline and a really good one. I liked the progression of the relationship. The timing seemed more real than some others I have read.
Drew’s cockiness could be a real turn off but for some reason it completely works for him. He also shows a sweet protective side that made him completely lovable. At first I wasn’t sure about Evie, I thought she was going to be weak and annoying but she was great after all. Her past is a difficult one…..first her childhood and then the ending of her relationship with Mike (was his name Mike?? I can’t even remember now, but he was awful!).
I’m moving on to the next book and I’m hoping it is as stimulating as this one!!
It has been a few years since I read the last book in this series and I still don’t remember if the other books were this HOT or what but this book was on fire!
This is a “fake relationship” storyline and a really good one. I liked the progression of the relationship. The timing seemed more real than some others I have read.
Drew’s cockiness could be a real turn off but for some reason it completely works for him. He also shows a sweet protective side that made him completely lovable. At first I wasn’t sure about Evie, I thought she was going to be weak and annoying but she was great after all. Her past is a difficult one…..first her childhood and then the ending of her relationship with Mike (was his name Mike?? I can’t even remember now, but he was awful!).
I’m moving on to the next book and I’m hoping it is as stimulating as this one!!
December 30, 2018
I love miss rhys filthy romance. Bad boss is my favourite. However, hothead is bit tame. The story is pretty simple. Insta love and fake engagement becomes real. I feel the chemistry between evi and drew is not explored in more depth. I need something more between them.
But still i enjoy the book.
3 stars
But still i enjoy the book.
3 stars
December 22, 2022
I need a special chapter like crazy
September 20, 2020
4.5 stars! Wow, This book was so much better than I expected it to be. I really loved it, and sad that it’s over. I want moar moar moar time with this couple! I listened to the audiobook and the narration was overall really well done, although I did feel like the female narrator sounded a bit like a robot at times.
The hero and heroine of this story meet and pretend to be in a relationship to help his image. He’s a famous baseball star with a bad reputation, but thankfully his past conquests weren’t thrown in my face. They start to get to know each other and eventually develop feelings. My only critique was for how the change in the hero’s feelings happened almost too suddenly... it felt a tiny bit forced. Still, that part was easy to overlook because the rest of the book was just really well done.
I really like this author’s writing style and the witty banter between the hero & heroine throughout the book. She did a great job of making both characters be really sympathetic and believable. At the start of the story the heroine had just come out of an engagement to a man she had been with for practically her entire life. The heroine is broken and hurt because she doesn’t know why he ended things... but she’s not a pathetic pushover. She’s still strong, funny, and knows how to put the hero in his place.
This book is totally worth the read. I read it as a stand-alone, and I didn’t feel like I was missing anything major although I knew that the hero’s and heroine’s friends were previously from different books in this series. The author did a good job of including those characters without making it hard to understand what was happening without having read those stories.
Safe; no OM/OW drama, no cheating between MCs, MC cheated on in past relationship, H was a manwhore before heroine, addiction of family member, unexpected news makes hero push away for a few days.
The hero and heroine of this story meet and pretend to be in a relationship to help his image. He’s a famous baseball star with a bad reputation, but thankfully his past conquests weren’t thrown in my face. They start to get to know each other and eventually develop feelings. My only critique was for how the change in the hero’s feelings happened almost too suddenly... it felt a tiny bit forced. Still, that part was easy to overlook because the rest of the book was just really well done.
I really like this author’s writing style and the witty banter between the hero & heroine throughout the book. She did a great job of making both characters be really sympathetic and believable. At the start of the story the heroine had just come out of an engagement to a man she had been with for practically her entire life. The heroine is broken and hurt because she doesn’t know why he ended things... but she’s not a pathetic pushover. She’s still strong, funny, and knows how to put the hero in his place.
This book is totally worth the read. I read it as a stand-alone, and I didn’t feel like I was missing anything major although I knew that the hero’s and heroine’s friends were previously from different books in this series. The author did a good job of including those characters without making it hard to understand what was happening without having read those stories.
Safe; no OM/OW drama, no cheating between MCs, MC cheated on in past relationship, H was a manwhore before heroine, addiction of family member, unexpected news makes hero push away for a few days.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2023
Fake dating trope, forced proximity and grumpy MC’s? Totally! I loved Evie and Drew, despite their imperfections, they completed each other
Stella Rhys always delivers with a great plot and steamy scenes! 💓
Stella Rhys always delivers with a great plot and steamy scenes! 💓
December 23, 2018
This was a solid 4.5 star read. Loved both characters, loved the ex drama and the perfect revenge of moving on with someone worlds better. Loved that the ex drama was funny rather than anything else. Whole thing just worked for me and I couldn't put it down once I started.
Seriously getting my moneys worth from KU this month with some awesome reads :)
Seriously getting my moneys worth from KU this month with some awesome reads :)
April 17, 2022
"Drew Maddox was used to getting his way. What he wanted he got, and what he had right now was both business and pleasure. He got all of me, I got maybe half of him, and that was just the way it worked in his world."
I really enjoyed this one, the start wasn't very captivating but somehow the writing made me feel connected with both Evie & Drew. These two enter into the fake dating pool because of a media article claiming Evie as Drew's serious girlfriend who managed to tame his playboy nature. I loved Evie but I loved Drew more no matter how closed off, hotheaded or broody he could get. He pushed Evie's buttons but she had a mind of her own. She was bold, mature and knew exactly what she wanted. I just wish the story was a bit longer because I absolutely loved the chemistry between Evie & Drew but I wish I could see them acting as an actual couple more.
I really enjoyed this one, the start wasn't very captivating but somehow the writing made me feel connected with both Evie & Drew. These two enter into the fake dating pool because of a media article claiming Evie as Drew's serious girlfriend who managed to tame his playboy nature. I loved Evie but I loved Drew more no matter how closed off, hotheaded or broody he could get. He pushed Evie's buttons but she had a mind of her own. She was bold, mature and knew exactly what she wanted. I just wish the story was a bit longer because I absolutely loved the chemistry between Evie & Drew but I wish I could see them acting as an actual couple more.
April 10, 2018
4.5 Stars
This had just about everything I love:
The trope was a fake relationship.
The smut was hot as hell
The alpha was dominant and book boyfriend worthy
AND I enjoyed the heroine
So far, this is my fave by the author.
This had just about everything I love:
The trope was a fake relationship.
The smut was hot as hell
The alpha was dominant and book boyfriend worthy
AND I enjoyed the heroine
So far, this is my fave by the author.
January 15, 2022
I enjoyed this book. I really liked the way that Drew’s character didn’t miss a thing. It made sense that he didn’t trust people. I liked that Evie was independent and not needy. I loved the chemistry and banter. This book was hot, hot, hot! I loved the surprise angst at the end of the book. Couldn’t put it down and loved the HEA.
August 25, 2020
I like first half of book with fake dating second half with unexpected pregnancy was annoying.
June 10, 2021
best in the series.
August 17, 2021
There are multiple problems with this book, but before I get into that, all you need to know about this is that it is your typical bad-boy forced proximity fake engagement to good girl that ultimately reforms him in every literal way that you probably don't even have to bother reading it.
Spoiler alert, I'm not marking any of these as spoilers because this book is the most cliched thing I've read since I read the definition of cliche in the dictionary. If you are surprised by anything here, then literally anything will surprise you.
Now, for my litany of issues:
1. Why does Drew even like Evie? I don't get it. I think it's because she was just sort of there, and eventually it becomes clear that he really likes her pussy and tits (because he mentions them ad nauseum).
2. What the hell did Evie even see in Mike? How did she spend that long with him without realizing what an utter turd he was?
3. Why did her friend so enthusiastically invite her to her restaurant if she was fucking her fiancé and then act all shocked when she realized it?
4. If you weren't clear on it already, Drew is the sexiest, hottest, bestest pitcher EVERRRRRRR and Evie is subsequently the bestest by osmosis, and so lucky to have him, and everyone is sooooo envious and jealous of her, and did you know, he's really really really really hot (but not perfect and has flaws, which is his temper, but he's hot, so yeah). This is such a fucking dangerous idea to peddle, and I'm going to tell you why. The instant women start defining themselves based on the relationships they're in and the type of men they're with, is the moment they stop being not only women, but complete human beings. If you base your self-worth on the type of man you're with (like I must be awesome if someone so awesome is so in to me) then you will never ever EVER be happy on your own. And you need to be happy on your own, 100% NEED TO, because nothing lasts forever, and you are setting yourself up for failure the second you need to function without that person, whether it's an hour or ten years or 40 years from now. This "you complete me" bullshit might work for romance books, but for those folks that have trouble separating fantasy from reality (and that might actually be the majority, tbh) selling this crap to women is disgusting and dangerous and setting us right back in the nineteen-fucking-fifties. I mean, I guess we're supposed to believe that Evie is strong and independent, because she didn't take Drew's shit, etc., etc., but if that's all the author thinks it takes to make the false standard she shoved down your throat for 250 pages acceptable, that's insane. The fact that a woman deserves a certain type of man (physically perfect, rich, famous, sex god) because she's a good person and has suffered is such utter crap. It's as unfair to men as the rest of society is to women, in making us think that we all have to be perfectly thin examples of femininity replete with flat stomachs and huge tits in order to consider our lives complete and worth living. It's bullshit.
5. Of course she gets fucking pregnant, of course there's a grovel, and of course they win the World Series in the epilogue. Of course of course of course.
6. I can't even speak as to the quality of the smut, because I was turned off by all the begging, giggling, and girlish lip-biting. What is with this need to reduce women to child-like caricatures of human beings? Why must we constantly be reminded that women are delicate, fragile, frilly things and men are literal Vikings? Are we not supposed to feel empowered by a woman taking charge of her sexuality? How do you achieve that by having her literally beg her partner for more? I should note here that I'm not trying to yuck anyone's yum, and fantasy is fantasy and whatever gets you going is awesome so long as it's not hurting anyone. And I sure as hell wouldn't turn Rollo Lothbrok out of bed if I had the opportunity, but just because I might get turned on by some huge hulking hairy-chested beast doesn't mean I want to turn into a simpering fool that's his to command. That's literally all you see in books today. Can you not have a stereotypical he-man paired with a not-at-all stereotypical girly female? Even the ones that are gruff in society turn into play-doh to be molded in their man's (overly large) hands as soon as things move to the bedroom. At least it seems that way anyway.
I skimmed the last few pages because I was fed up with DNFing stuff.
This book has me incensed, INCENSED, because I wasted so many years of my life thinking I needed to gauge my own self-worth based on the man I was with (and by extension, his job, his looks, etc) that it fucked me up to the point that I am now 43 and still hate myself just as much as I did in high school. And thank god I'm at least self-aware enough to realize that it's not my fault and I can hardly blame myself for thinking this way when society has literally hit me over the head with the sledgehammer of my own inadequacy for 35 years in one form or another, because if I had to deal with not only hating my own physical inadequacy in addition to being a complete head-case, I'm not sure what I'd do with myself. If you need to know more about what I'm talking about, read "Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mister Good-Enough" to get the fuller picture.
Spoiler alert, I'm not marking any of these as spoilers because this book is the most cliched thing I've read since I read the definition of cliche in the dictionary. If you are surprised by anything here, then literally anything will surprise you.
Now, for my litany of issues:
1. Why does Drew even like Evie? I don't get it. I think it's because she was just sort of there, and eventually it becomes clear that he really likes her pussy and tits (because he mentions them ad nauseum).
2. What the hell did Evie even see in Mike? How did she spend that long with him without realizing what an utter turd he was?
3. Why did her friend so enthusiastically invite her to her restaurant if she was fucking her fiancé and then act all shocked when she realized it?
4. If you weren't clear on it already, Drew is the sexiest, hottest, bestest pitcher EVERRRRRRR and Evie is subsequently the bestest by osmosis, and so lucky to have him, and everyone is sooooo envious and jealous of her, and did you know, he's really really really really hot (but not perfect and has flaws, which is his temper, but he's hot, so yeah). This is such a fucking dangerous idea to peddle, and I'm going to tell you why. The instant women start defining themselves based on the relationships they're in and the type of men they're with, is the moment they stop being not only women, but complete human beings. If you base your self-worth on the type of man you're with (like I must be awesome if someone so awesome is so in to me) then you will never ever EVER be happy on your own. And you need to be happy on your own, 100% NEED TO, because nothing lasts forever, and you are setting yourself up for failure the second you need to function without that person, whether it's an hour or ten years or 40 years from now. This "you complete me" bullshit might work for romance books, but for those folks that have trouble separating fantasy from reality (and that might actually be the majority, tbh) selling this crap to women is disgusting and dangerous and setting us right back in the nineteen-fucking-fifties. I mean, I guess we're supposed to believe that Evie is strong and independent, because she didn't take Drew's shit, etc., etc., but if that's all the author thinks it takes to make the false standard she shoved down your throat for 250 pages acceptable, that's insane. The fact that a woman deserves a certain type of man (physically perfect, rich, famous, sex god) because she's a good person and has suffered is such utter crap. It's as unfair to men as the rest of society is to women, in making us think that we all have to be perfectly thin examples of femininity replete with flat stomachs and huge tits in order to consider our lives complete and worth living. It's bullshit.
5. Of course she gets fucking pregnant, of course there's a grovel, and of course they win the World Series in the epilogue. Of course of course of course.
6. I can't even speak as to the quality of the smut, because I was turned off by all the begging, giggling, and girlish lip-biting. What is with this need to reduce women to child-like caricatures of human beings? Why must we constantly be reminded that women are delicate, fragile, frilly things and men are literal Vikings? Are we not supposed to feel empowered by a woman taking charge of her sexuality? How do you achieve that by having her literally beg her partner for more? I should note here that I'm not trying to yuck anyone's yum, and fantasy is fantasy and whatever gets you going is awesome so long as it's not hurting anyone. And I sure as hell wouldn't turn Rollo Lothbrok out of bed if I had the opportunity, but just because I might get turned on by some huge hulking hairy-chested beast doesn't mean I want to turn into a simpering fool that's his to command. That's literally all you see in books today. Can you not have a stereotypical he-man paired with a not-at-all stereotypical girly female? Even the ones that are gruff in society turn into play-doh to be molded in their man's (overly large) hands as soon as things move to the bedroom. At least it seems that way anyway.
I skimmed the last few pages because I was fed up with DNFing stuff.
This book has me incensed, INCENSED, because I wasted so many years of my life thinking I needed to gauge my own self-worth based on the man I was with (and by extension, his job, his looks, etc) that it fucked me up to the point that I am now 43 and still hate myself just as much as I did in high school. And thank god I'm at least self-aware enough to realize that it's not my fault and I can hardly blame myself for thinking this way when society has literally hit me over the head with the sledgehammer of my own inadequacy for 35 years in one form or another, because if I had to deal with not only hating my own physical inadequacy in addition to being a complete head-case, I'm not sure what I'd do with myself. If you need to know more about what I'm talking about, read "Marry Him: The Case for Settling for Mister Good-Enough" to get the fuller picture.
July 13, 2018
OH my god this was so sweet. Enemies caught up in a deal of a false relationship, who eventually fall in love despite their individual hang ups? Sign me up.
Especially with a hero like Drew. Baseball star with an unpredictable streak. Damaged from everyone in his past letting him down or using him, the last thing he's open to is a lasting relationship. But that's just what his team needs from him to improve his image.
Enter Evie - just off a LONG relationship, bruised and hurting but still holding out hope that her ex will want to repair their relationship in the near future, when she gets caught leaving a long-winded message to said ex by Drew at her friend's party.
They butt heads instantly, share a heated moment in the corner of the party, and resign themselves to forgetting about one another. Until the pictures emerge. Suddenly, their "relationship" is being listed as the number one thing to repair Drew's image, and Evie's chances of getting her ex back.
All she has to do is live with the hothead, and not sleep with him, and definitely not fall in love with him.
Drew was a grade-a asshole at the start of the book; though, with what he went through in his life, it's bound to make someone bitter. Same with Evie. She went through some awful things during her childhood, and that allowed them to connect on a deeper level.
The build-up was tension-filled and watching them progress from reluctant roommates to lovers was so amazing. I've enjoyed every book in this series. Can't wait to read more of Rhy's stuff.
Especially with a hero like Drew. Baseball star with an unpredictable streak. Damaged from everyone in his past letting him down or using him, the last thing he's open to is a lasting relationship. But that's just what his team needs from him to improve his image.
Enter Evie - just off a LONG relationship, bruised and hurting but still holding out hope that her ex will want to repair their relationship in the near future, when she gets caught leaving a long-winded message to said ex by Drew at her friend's party.
They butt heads instantly, share a heated moment in the corner of the party, and resign themselves to forgetting about one another. Until the pictures emerge. Suddenly, their "relationship" is being listed as the number one thing to repair Drew's image, and Evie's chances of getting her ex back.
All she has to do is live with the hothead, and not sleep with him, and definitely not fall in love with him.
Drew was a grade-a asshole at the start of the book; though, with what he went through in his life, it's bound to make someone bitter. Same with Evie. She went through some awful things during her childhood, and that allowed them to connect on a deeper level.
The build-up was tension-filled and watching them progress from reluctant roommates to lovers was so amazing. I've enjoyed every book in this series. Can't wait to read more of Rhy's stuff.
March 31, 2018
Dear Ms. Rhys,
When I was granted an ARC of Hothead, I did a happy-dance around my living room with my Kindle raised in the air in jubilation. Seriously. I'm a wicked big fan. Your stories never fail to make me laugh, gasp, swoon, and inevitably retreat for some "personal time". Hothead was no exception. Beautiful work, as always.
Sincerely,
Me
Because, jeebus folks, that was awesome!
We met Drew and Evie back in Dirty Deeds, as Emmett and Ally's best friends, respectively. Based on meeting them there I had already formed opinions, and I just wasn't sure how their story was going to unfold. I was pretty sure Evie was a bit of a doormat, and that Drew was an alphahole. And on the surface I was right, but wrong in all the ways that really count. I shouldn't be surprised that Ms. Rhys gave us characters with layers, because she does that so well.
Because I really don't want to spoil the fun for anyone, I won't be giving any details. But I can safely say that this story is fun, sweet and sexy as hell.
I will be waiting, rather impatiently, for more work by Stella Rhys and her spot on my favorite-author shelf remains secure.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book, via Hidden Gems Books, in exchange for my voluntary review.
When I was granted an ARC of Hothead, I did a happy-dance around my living room with my Kindle raised in the air in jubilation. Seriously. I'm a wicked big fan. Your stories never fail to make me laugh, gasp, swoon, and inevitably retreat for some "personal time". Hothead was no exception. Beautiful work, as always.
Sincerely,
Me
Because, jeebus folks, that was awesome!
We met Drew and Evie back in Dirty Deeds, as Emmett and Ally's best friends, respectively. Based on meeting them there I had already formed opinions, and I just wasn't sure how their story was going to unfold. I was pretty sure Evie was a bit of a doormat, and that Drew was an alphahole. And on the surface I was right, but wrong in all the ways that really count. I shouldn't be surprised that Ms. Rhys gave us characters with layers, because she does that so well.
Because I really don't want to spoil the fun for anyone, I won't be giving any details. But I can safely say that this story is fun, sweet and sexy as hell.
I will be waiting, rather impatiently, for more work by Stella Rhys and her spot on my favorite-author shelf remains secure.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book, via Hidden Gems Books, in exchange for my voluntary review.
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