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4.06 AVERAGE
4.06 AVERAGE
While I enjoyed book 1 a lot, book 2 failed to meet my expectations. I thought Evran and Nina’s story was going to be incredibly amazing, but unfortunately it was not.
I mean, the hate to lovers bit was okay, but the building up wasn’t as sparkly as I thought it would be. Too many things happened and more than a romcom it felt like a mystery novel. The twists weren’t twisty at all. I knew what was going to happened two hundred pages before it did. And towards the end I started skipping most of the scenes.
After a while, Nina started to bother me so much and everything she did, while Evren lost all of his appeal from book 1.
#arc #arcreader #arcreview #arcreviewer #crossinglines #alexisgorgun #agegap #billionaire #closeproximity #contemporaryromance #contemporary #doublepov #drama #fiction #forcedproximity #newadult #romance #romcom #spicy #sports #sportsromance #thesmuthood
I mean, the hate to lovers bit was okay, but the building up wasn’t as sparkly as I thought it would be. Too many things happened and more than a romcom it felt like a mystery novel. The twists weren’t twisty at all. I knew what was going to happened two hundred pages before it did. And towards the end I started skipping most of the scenes.
After a while, Nina started to bother me so much and everything she did, while Evren lost all of his appeal from book 1.
#arc #arcreader #arcreview #arcreviewer #crossinglines #alexisgorgun #agegap #billionaire #closeproximity #contemporaryromance #contemporary #doublepov #drama #fiction #forcedproximity #newadult #romance #romcom #spicy #sports #sportsromance #thesmuthood
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I loved this book so much because. I’m a huge football fan and a sports fan in general. But this book did not disappoint. I love the characters.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC, and the dedication of this book is everything I want my daughter to know in life.
"To the ones who’ve been called too emotional, too complicated, too needy, too wild, too soft, too loud, too everything. Newsflash: You were never too much. They were just too little."
This book picked up with Nina and Evren who were first introduced in Faking Ties. She's a designer on hiatus, trying to come to terms with her toxic parents. He's the new billionaire owner of the football team trying to prove he can turn the team around and that his first successful business wasn't just a fluke.
Following some house flooding, they're forced into a roommate situation.Early morning talks over cereal, custom shirts, and someone out to sabotage his business, have them circling each other with until they combust.
Overall, I enjoyed their story as they learned to trust each other and explore their relationship. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
"To the ones who’ve been called too emotional, too complicated, too needy, too wild, too soft, too loud, too everything. Newsflash: You were never too much. They were just too little."
This book picked up with Nina and Evren who were first introduced in Faking Ties. She's a designer on hiatus, trying to come to terms with her toxic parents. He's the new billionaire owner of the football team trying to prove he can turn the team around and that his first successful business wasn't just a fluke.
Following some house flooding, they're forced into a roommate situation.
Overall, I enjoyed their story as they learned to trust each other and explore their relationship. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
ARC Review: thank you to Alexis Gorgun and The Smuthood for sending me a copy to read and review.
This was described as an interconnected stand alone, but it reads more like a duet. You almost have to read the first one to really have the context behind Evren and Nina’s relationship.
Crossing Lines is a frenemies to lovers, age gap book. Evren is a rich, Turkish football team owner. He’s perpetually single and his mom keeps trying to set him on dates. Nina is the woman who had made a viral jacket with his team’s logo on it the previous year . He’s attracted to her, she gives him attitude at every turn.
Nina is a poor seamstress. Her friends are friends with Evren, so they’re often in the same company. While house sitting/ decorating for her friend Evren’s house floods and he comes to live with her at her friend’s house.
Even though she has her reasons, she keeps refusing every one of Evren’s offers to make a deal for her to sell her jacket. She’s a total black cat FMC. It was nice to see the progression of her letting her walls down.
I really liked the friend group in the book as well as Evren’s brother Zeki.
This was described as an interconnected stand alone, but it reads more like a duet. You almost have to read the first one to really have the context behind Evren and Nina’s relationship.
Crossing Lines is a frenemies to lovers, age gap book. Evren is a rich, Turkish football team owner. He’s perpetually single and his mom keeps trying to set him on dates. Nina is the woman who had made a viral jacket with his team’s logo on it the previous year . He’s attracted to her, she gives him attitude at every turn.
Nina is a poor seamstress. Her friends are friends with Evren, so they’re often in the same company. While house sitting/ decorating for her friend Evren’s house floods and he comes to live with her at her friend’s house.
Even though she has her reasons, she keeps refusing every one of Evren’s offers to make a deal for her to sell her jacket. She’s a total black cat FMC. It was nice to see the progression of her letting her walls down.
I really liked the friend group in the book as well as Evren’s brother Zeki.
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Ohh, my heart. When I saw that ARCs were available for Crossing Lines, I knew I had to sign up; there’s no way I would have missed this story. Evren and Nina were on fire when I first met them in Faking Ties. Their story in Crossing Lines is just adding oil to that fire with a dash of emotional growth and personal strength and a healthy seasoning of support.
Though still very light-hearted there is a level of intensity that feels more heightened given the deeper dive we get at Evren and Nina’s characters. Though he is the billionaire owner of a sports team and she is a poor seamstress who somehow become roommates, the growth trajectory that their characters are on is so very similar. I love how at the end of the day, the two of them, regardless of their age and status, have very close paths and that they are there for each other. The age difference between the two of them almost helps emphasize the things that they need/are missing from their lives.
Evren’s life experiences and background offer Nina a level of stability that she never had the chance to have. Nina’s upbringing offers Evren a chance to relax and learn to rely on others. Though both of them may seem like they have a hard shell, they’re both supportive and care about one another. I really enjoyed seeing how each of them developed throughout the story. One aspect I really love and appreciate is Evren being so unafraid to call Nina out and none of it was done in poor taste - the man is just not messing around, he’s very serious and it’s pretty hot. There were so many moments where I almost spat my coffee out because of something he said/did and it was worth it.
If you’re looking for a more contemporary book boyfriend who will fight alongside you and listen to you? And who will see you and knows that you’re strong and appreciates that strength? You just might need Crossing Lines.
Thank you so much to The Smuthood and Alexis Gorgun for the gifted ARC! All opinions are my own.
emotional
funny
inspiring
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Crossing Lines by Alexis Gorgun is a slow-burn, opposites attract romance with a strong emotional center, a dash of mystery, and a swoony billionaire who refuses to give up on the woman who believes she’s too much.
Nina is house sitting for her rich best friend when she unexpectedly becomes roommates with Evren who is a broody, gorgeous NFL team owner and billionaire. Nina has spent her life surviving, never believing she could have more than scraps. Evren has been burned before, but when he meets Nina, he sees her for who she is: resilient, brilliant, and worth all the effort.
Evren’s devotion is what really sets this book apart. He’s patient, protective, and unwavering in his belief that Nina is meant for more, more love, more happiness, more everything. He doesn’t try to fix her, just stands beside her as she learns to trust again.
Add in a mystery, a supportive and empowering girl gang, and some heartfelt moments, and Crossing Lines is more than just a romance it’s a story about healing, trust, and letting love in, even when you’re scared.
Nina is house sitting for her rich best friend when she unexpectedly becomes roommates with Evren who is a broody, gorgeous NFL team owner and billionaire. Nina has spent her life surviving, never believing she could have more than scraps. Evren has been burned before, but when he meets Nina, he sees her for who she is: resilient, brilliant, and worth all the effort.
Evren’s devotion is what really sets this book apart. He’s patient, protective, and unwavering in his belief that Nina is meant for more, more love, more happiness, more everything. He doesn’t try to fix her, just stands beside her as she learns to trust again.
Add in a mystery, a supportive and empowering girl gang, and some heartfelt moments, and Crossing Lines is more than just a romance it’s a story about healing, trust, and letting love in, even when you’re scared.
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
4.25⭐
2🌶️
This is my second book from Alexis and it made for such a cute read! I adored Faking Ties (Elodie and Hunter) in which we got a peek of Nina and Evren's meet cute, but getting their story... Gahhh a girl's gotta dream!
Nina has a complicated relationship with her mom, hence she is guarded and doesn't trust easily. When Stella offers her a place to stay in Skyrise, she doesn't hesitate to take up on her offer. Her plan is to decorate her house when Stella is off touring.
Evren is the workaholic boss who's aim is to finally sell the Sentinels once he secures a main sponsor for his football team. When his apartment becomes compromised and inhabitable, he ends up (with some arm twisting from Stella) becoming Nina's new roommate. Evren can't put his finger on why Nina has been living rent free in his brain since their first encounter, and Nina doesn't need someone like Evren sharing her safe space with her.
Nina and Evren unexpectedly establish a morning cereal routine, where Nina starts to see other sides of Evren - caring, thoughtful, patient and kind. She realises she's perceived him wrong all along and when the lines start to blur?? Evren will make her cross every one of them...
Let me tell you, having a Turkish MMC was a first for me but I loved how Alexis wrote Evren's character - his pride for his country and origin. He may reside in the US, but him giving Nina an endearing nickname in Turkish🤌🏻 I just loved it! We also get some parts of the story based in Türkiye and I could literally envisage the scenes straight out the book 📚
Evren is undoubtedly head over heels for Nina, and I loved how he never judged her, despite him being a self made billionaire and her having a poor background. He understood and saw the real her and although they had a big age gap, it never felt predatory/sleazy between them. I adored how he always took care of her and had her best interests at heart. Plus, his little acts of kindness.... Nina had NO chance 🫠🫠
Nina on the other hand is independent, strong but equally straddles the line of guilt and freedom. Her mom is truly a nasty piece of work and my heart seriously broke for her. However, the bond she shares with her girls - where she's finally finds her people, those that would do anything for her was just so heartwarming 🥰
I also relished in Zeki's character too! I really do hope he gets his own book (reformed playboy, anyone?) but first, we NEED Aria and Jake's story 🙏🏻 I seriously cannot wait for more! 😱
What to expect:
💜 Forced Proximity
🩶Frenemies to Lovers
💜 Opposites Attract
🩶 Age Gap
💜 NFL Team Owner x Poor Seamstress
Thank you so much to Alexis and The Smuthood for the eARC, in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻
2🌶️
This is my second book from Alexis and it made for such a cute read! I adored Faking Ties (Elodie and Hunter) in which we got a peek of Nina and Evren's meet cute, but getting their story... Gahhh a girl's gotta dream!
Nina has a complicated relationship with her mom, hence she is guarded and doesn't trust easily. When Stella offers her a place to stay in Skyrise, she doesn't hesitate to take up on her offer. Her plan is to decorate her house when Stella is off touring.
Evren is the workaholic boss who's aim is to finally sell the Sentinels once he secures a main sponsor for his football team. When his apartment becomes compromised and inhabitable, he ends up (with some arm twisting from Stella) becoming Nina's new roommate. Evren can't put his finger on why Nina has been living rent free in his brain since their first encounter, and Nina doesn't need someone like Evren sharing her safe space with her.
Nina and Evren unexpectedly establish a morning cereal routine, where Nina starts to see other sides of Evren - caring, thoughtful, patient and kind. She realises she's perceived him wrong all along and when the lines start to blur?? Evren will make her cross every one of them...
Let me tell you, having a Turkish MMC was a first for me but I loved how Alexis wrote Evren's character - his pride for his country and origin. He may reside in the US, but him giving Nina an endearing nickname in Turkish🤌🏻 I just loved it! We also get some parts of the story based in Türkiye and I could literally envisage the scenes straight out the book 📚
Evren is undoubtedly head over heels for Nina, and I loved how he never judged her, despite him being a self made billionaire and her having a poor background. He understood and saw the real her and although they had a big age gap, it never felt predatory/sleazy between them. I adored how he always took care of her and had her best interests at heart. Plus, his little acts of kindness.... Nina had NO chance 🫠🫠
Nina on the other hand is independent, strong but equally straddles the line of guilt and freedom. Her mom is truly a nasty piece of work and my heart seriously broke for her. However, the bond she shares with her girls - where she's finally finds her people, those that would do anything for her was just so heartwarming 🥰
I also relished in Zeki's character too! I really do hope he gets his own book (reformed playboy, anyone?) but first, we NEED Aria and Jake's story 🙏🏻 I seriously cannot wait for more! 😱
What to expect:
💜 Forced Proximity
🩶Frenemies to Lovers
💜 Opposites Attract
🩶 Age Gap
💜 NFL Team Owner x Poor Seamstress
Thank you so much to Alexis and The Smuthood for the eARC, in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I wanted to love it, I really did - I loved Faking Ties. This was the second Sentinel book but was an interconnected standalone and followed a seamstress and NFL coach.
I had a really hard time connecting to this story, even having ready the first book. I felt like there wasn't much time to understand the character's relationship. She seemed to hate him while he was borderline obsessed with her and then a light switch flipped and suddenly she was open to him? It just felt like their relationship was a bunch of whiplash. I would have also liked to have more about their relationship in general. Instead, we got more of her relationship with her mom and his relationship with Mert. Which don't get me wrong, the mystery part of the story was GREAT. But I just felt like the MCs relationship was lacking.
I was still entertained by it once I got past the first 20-25% so I'd still recommend for someone that just wants a quick read.
I had a really hard time connecting to this story, even having ready the first book. I felt like there wasn't much time to understand the character's relationship. She seemed to hate him while he was borderline obsessed with her and then a light switch flipped and suddenly she was open to him? It just felt like their relationship was a bunch of whiplash. I would have also liked to have more about their relationship in general. Instead, we got more of her relationship with her mom and his relationship with Mert. Which don't get me wrong, the mystery part of the story was GREAT. But I just felt like the MCs relationship was lacking.
I was still entertained by it once I got past the first 20-25% so I'd still recommend for someone that just wants a quick read.
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: June 19 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
Nina and Evren’s story? Absolute perfection. From the very first chapter, I was obsessed, with their bickering, their stubbornness, and the way they slowly but surely tore down each other’s walls.
Nina is the kind of heroine I adore…creative, fiery, and unafraid to stand her ground. And Evren, He’s all sharp edges and brooding intensity, but the way he protects Nina, even when they’re at each other’s throats? It made my heart melt. And let’s talk about the chemistry between them…because wow. Every look, every argument, every moment of forced proximity had me holding my breath. The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife, and when they finally gave in? Magnificent.
What I loved most was how they challenged each other. They weren’t just falling in love, they were making each other better. Nina pushed Evren out of his comfort zone, and Evren, for all his grumpiness, never tried to dim her light. Their connection felt real, messy, and so, so addictive.
thank you to Alexis Gorgun and the smuthood pr for giving me an arc for this book <3
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Billionaire romance, roommates to lovers, age gap, grumpy/sunshine, sports team owner mmc/seamstress fmc, frenemies to lovers, opposite attract