Reviews

Jump Ball by Kasha Thompson

lyloveslit's review

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emotional hopeful inspiring
  • 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

4.0

“Jump Ball” by Kasha Thompson, the engaging second installment in the Las Vegas Ramblers series, is a romance that intricately laces together themes of grief, empowerment, and love. This narrative follows Sariah as she grapples with the sudden loss of her father, Grover Thornton, the esteemed owner of the Ramblers. Unexpectedly inheriting his basketball team, Sariah finds herself in uncharted waters, navigating her grief and the complexities of the sport. Her beacon in these trying times is Coach Justus, who not only becomes her behind-the-scenes guide in understanding basketball but also, quite unexpectedly, her confidant and the person who understands the intricacies of her heart.

Thompson crafts a story that is both tender and empowering, focusing on Sariah’s journey of self-discovery and resilience. The depiction of Sariah as a powerful, intellectually sharp woman who doesn’t shy away from showcasing her wit is both refreshing and inspiring. The author adeptly handles the theme of grief, portraying it with authenticity and sensitivity, and reminding readers that the process is indeed nonlinear and deeply personal.

The chemistry between Justus and Sariah is pure, with Thompson deftly capturing the genuine connection and mutual respect that blossoms into love. The romance is beautifully developed, with just the right balance of sweetness and intensity, ensuring that readers are fully invested in their relationship.

One of the book’s strengths lies in Thompson’s writing style, which is both engaging and evocative. The author provides a seamless blend of unproblematic romance and spicy scenes, making “Jump Ball” a compelling read for those who appreciate a good love story without the often-associated tropes that can detract from the narrative’s authenticity.

Overall, “Jump Ball” is a testament to Thompson’s ability to weave a story that is as much about finding love as it is about self-discovery and overcoming adversity. It’s a celebration of strength, both on the basketball court and in the realm of personal growth. Fans of the genre will find much to admire in Thompson’s storytelling, making “Jump Ball” a must-read for those seeking a romance that is both sweet and substantial.

readwithtre's review

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funny lighthearted fast-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

4.0

steel_city_peach's review

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emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This is What Love & Basketball Should Be 

I am so excited to get a second installment in the Las Vegas Ramblers series. A whole new couple to fall in love with. Sariah is such a powerhouse. She’s beautiful, intelligent, and fierce. I adore her spunk. Justus is the steady reliable man that she can cling to in a sea of chaos. He is so upstanding and attractive. Their chemistry is hot and intense. Their courtship develops quickly, but it makes sense for a more mature couple. I really love them together. Their intimacy is extra spicy and drool worthy. The background drama with the workplace nemesis makes this love story even juicier. I love getting a little update on Deck and Sloane’s union. They are so cute. This is such a fun follow up to Defensive Stance. For my fellow sports romance enthusiasts, this is a must read!

Thank you to Kasha Thompson for the advanced copy to read and review. 

tavii_'s review

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  • Loveable characters? Yes

3.5

bookish_wife16's review

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adventurous emotional funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix

3.75

Rating: I liked it 

My Random Thoughts:

I received this advanced copy in exchange of an honest review. I liked this one. Justus was a stand up guy. He took care of his girls and his players. I was excited that he didn’t have a problematic ex wife. He was definitely grown man and had full sex appeal. Sariah was a strong minded women. She was also stubborn. I liked the fact that she reached out to Justus to give her a crash course of the organization. I loved that she wasn’t easily swayed to make a decision regardless how much someone pushed. 
I would have loved to see the relationship between Justus and Sariah develop more. Nolan could kick rocks barefoot out in the wilderness. He was trash. Glad he got his due diligence. 
Overall I enjoyed this story. I laughed and got the classic Kasha humor I look forward to in her stories. I’m definitely waiting for the next installment. 

neekbrown's review

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adventurous challenging emotional inspiring 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? Yes

5.0

_bookish_lauren's review

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funny lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

Overall: 4.5/5
Spice level: 3.5/5
Tropes: sports, he falls first, boss's daughter/boss, single dad

CW: death of parent (off page), grief, misogyny 

Listen, I enjoyed Sloane and Deck's book, but this one with Sariah and Justus? 👏👏👏 chef's kiss 

They had an amazing chemistry from the very beginning. It felt effortless. And who doesn't love a good "he falls first" story?

I think the only thing that I struggled to understand was how he didn't know what she looked like when they initially met or when he initially saw her at the funeral. Even though she wasn't involved in her dad's life much, she was successful in her own right as a beauty line CEO, specifically of a company he said that his daughters love and use products from. 

Aside from that, I loved seeing Sariah navigate a new world of business but being vulnerable enough to ask for help when she needed. Justus was super supportive, and they didn't play games, which I loved. 

Sariah and Justus showed each other so much love and support and had amazing character development. And creating a mentorship where he teaches her about basketball and their specific organization was the perfect way to build their relationship. 

Also, they were so nasty. I loved it! Lol!

I can't wait to see what's next from Kasha Thompson!

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