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book_concierge's review
2.0
Book on CD read by Christopher Evan Welch
Rick Dockery doesn’t know anything but football, but he’s obviously not very good at it. In six years, he played with eight teams. Now no one wants him, unless it’s to beat him up for his latest performance, which basically handed the AFC championship to the rival team. But … it seems that Italy is bonkers for American football, and the Parma Panthers are in need of a quarterback. And leaving for Europe will also keep a former cheerleader’s attorneys from filing a paternity suit against Rick. So off he goes.
What’s the male equivalent of chick-lit? Jock-lit? Well, whatever term we use, this novel is it. Light on plot (and what’s there is predictable), a little romance, a life lesson learned (sort of), and a lot of football. I’m not a fan of this sport, so much of the book with detailed descriptions of game plays was lost on me. But it was a quick read, fulfilled several challenges, and I enjoyed some of the scenes that explored Italian culture (and food). But Grisham is definitely capable of better writing that this.
Evan Welch does a fairly good job of voicing the audio. He has good pacing and I liked the way he voiced the Italians – even when I was listening ad double speed on my MP3.
Rick Dockery doesn’t know anything but football, but he’s obviously not very good at it. In six years, he played with eight teams. Now no one wants him, unless it’s to beat him up for his latest performance, which basically handed the AFC championship to the rival team. But … it seems that Italy is bonkers for American football, and the Parma Panthers are in need of a quarterback. And leaving for Europe will also keep a former cheerleader’s attorneys from filing a paternity suit against Rick. So off he goes.
What’s the male equivalent of chick-lit? Jock-lit? Well, whatever term we use, this novel is it. Light on plot (and what’s there is predictable), a little romance, a life lesson learned (sort of), and a lot of football. I’m not a fan of this sport, so much of the book with detailed descriptions of game plays was lost on me. But it was a quick read, fulfilled several challenges, and I enjoyed some of the scenes that explored Italian culture (and food). But Grisham is definitely capable of better writing that this.
Evan Welch does a fairly good job of voicing the audio. He has good pacing and I liked the way he voiced the Italians – even when I was listening ad double speed on my MP3.
bigpapadouglas's review
5.0
Light, humerous "football" read that had me laughing out loud at times. Had my wife asking me what's so funny.
the_schaef's review
2.0
A short book with a focus on American football. A little thin on the depth of the plot.
blondierocket's review against another edition
4.0
If you’re looking for the typical legal drama that Grisham provides, then you’ll be in for a surprise. A good one in my opinion.
I absolutely loved this quick story of a American QB going to play American football in Parma, Italy. I wanted the book to keep going when it ended.
It was even more enjoyable having recently been to Parma, knowing the locations of places mentioned, and toured the cathedrals, churches, and more. My favorite pasta is from Parma and so are some of my favorite people.
Whether you’ve been to Italy - Parma, Florence, or Venice - or you just enjoyed a feel good story, I think most will enjoy this one. And there are lawyers mentioned so I guess it still keeps a little to the Grisham script.
I absolutely loved this quick story of a American QB going to play American football in Parma, Italy. I wanted the book to keep going when it ended.
It was even more enjoyable having recently been to Parma, knowing the locations of places mentioned, and toured the cathedrals, churches, and more. My favorite pasta is from Parma and so are some of my favorite people.
Whether you’ve been to Italy - Parma, Florence, or Venice - or you just enjoyed a feel good story, I think most will enjoy this one. And there are lawyers mentioned so I guess it still keeps a little to the Grisham script.
iceangel32's review
4.0
I really enjoyed this book...who wouldn't when you add italy and american football together.
alidottie's review
3.0
3 and a half stars--short, not much too it, but interesting since it is based on real football-americano in Italy which--who knew?
harperrg's review
3.0
I started this audiobook expecting some sort of legal story, and didn't expect a story about a third string football player in Italy. I did get into it enough to finish it, so I suppose that's saying something.
mdungan27's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
emerygirl's review
1.0
I don't like football. I don't understand football. I like John Grisham books. I usually understand John Grisham books. I did not like nor understand this book.