Scan barcode
duckwalk1913's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
LB does it again!
Trent and Jade stole my heart from the very beginning. They are my new fav couple out of the LB universe. Now I was late reading their story but it resonated with me for so many reasons.
Jade is a struggling mom who is trying to bounce back from becoming a teenage mother and also trying to navigate life without her mom due to that mistake.
Trent is one in the same where his mistake cost a close relatives life and even though he was a child he was blamed for it.
Both Trent and Jade have mommy and family issues and I enjoyed watching them navigate and try to overcome those issues with each other.
I can't wait to read more about them and their journey together cause I know it's not over.
Trent and Jade stole my heart from the very beginning. They are my new fav couple out of the LB universe. Now I was late reading their story but it resonated with me for so many reasons.
Jade is a struggling mom who is trying to bounce back from becoming a teenage mother and also trying to navigate life without her mom due to that mistake.
Trent is one in the same where his mistake cost a close relatives life and even though he was a child he was blamed for it.
Both Trent and Jade have mommy and family issues and I enjoyed watching them navigate and try to overcome those issues with each other.
I can't wait to read more about them and their journey together cause I know it's not over.
albookcorner's review against another edition
funny
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
nqe89's review against another edition
4.0
"Love in the Red Zone" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that explores the complexities of love, forgiveness, and personal growth. The story centers around Jade and Trent, two flawed individuals whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways.
Jade, a young mother struggling to find her footing, crosses paths with Trent, a former convict who has turned his life around and now serves as a mentor to her son. Their initial meeting is fraught with tension, as both carry the weight of their troubled pasts. Yet, despite the obstacles, a deep connection begins to form between them, marked by moments of vulnerability and shared understanding.
The author does an excellent job of developing Jade and Trent as fully realized characters with rich backstories. Their individual struggles and fears are portrayed with raw honesty, making their evolving relationship feel genuine and heartfelt. The slow burn romance between them is beautifully handled, with the tension building steadily throughout the book.
Despite this minor quibble, "Love in the Red Zone" is a compelling and uplifting read. The themes of redemption, second chances, and the power of love to heal are beautifully woven throughout the narrative. The characters are well-drawn and relatable, making the story all the more affecting.
In the end, "Love in the Red Zone" is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the messiness of human relationships and the transformative power of love. It's a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with their own flaws and doubts, reminding us that it's never too late to find love and acceptance, both for ourselves and from others.
Jade, a young mother struggling to find her footing, crosses paths with Trent, a former convict who has turned his life around and now serves as a mentor to her son. Their initial meeting is fraught with tension, as both carry the weight of their troubled pasts. Yet, despite the obstacles, a deep connection begins to form between them, marked by moments of vulnerability and shared understanding.
The author does an excellent job of developing Jade and Trent as fully realized characters with rich backstories. Their individual struggles and fears are portrayed with raw honesty, making their evolving relationship feel genuine and heartfelt. The slow burn romance between them is beautifully handled, with the tension building steadily throughout the book.
Despite this minor quibble, "Love in the Red Zone" is a compelling and uplifting read. The themes of redemption, second chances, and the power of love to heal are beautifully woven throughout the narrative. The characters are well-drawn and relatable, making the story all the more affecting.
In the end, "Love in the Red Zone" is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the messiness of human relationships and the transformative power of love. It's a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with their own flaws and doubts, reminding us that it's never too late to find love and acceptance, both for ourselves and from others.
lyloveslit's review
emotional
inspiring
reflective
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
4.0
Diving into my first Love Belvin book was a treat, and “Love in the RedZone” didn’t disappoint. This book is the first in the Connecticut Kings series, which Belvin writes alongside Christina C. Jones, and it’s a perfect mix of two things I can’t resist: Black romance and sports romance.
The story centers on Trent Bailey and Jade Matthews, who both have had their fair share of tough breaks. They meet unexpectedly through Pop Warner football, and sparks fly. Jade is the kind of lead you can’t help but root for—feisty, determined, and nurturing. She’s not afraid to wear her heart on her sleeve. Trent, on the other hand, is a big guy with even bigger walls built around his heart, but Jade and her son start to break these down in the most heartwarming ways.
What I loved about this book is how it weaves together a comeback story with a beautiful love tale. It’s not just about falling in love; it’s about second chances. Trent is fighting for another shot at football, and Jade is rediscovering herself. The forced proximity between them just adds to the tension and, ultimately, the sweetness of their connection.
If you’re into romances that pack emotional depth with a side of sports, this book is definitely for you. It’s got all the right plays—emotion, recovery, and love—that make you cheer from the sidelines.
wobilba's review against another edition
2.5
2.5 stars
Even though I tried my best, I couldn't find myself loving this book. The story felt long, flat and repetitive, and lost my interest as it progressed. There were just too many insecurities on Jade's part, which made it hard for me to connect with her character. And then there were the many unresolved issues, especially regarding Trent and his mom, which left me unsatisfied and wanting more closure.
However, one aspect of the book that stood out to me was the spiritual and religious elements. I also appreciated how Trent maintained his focus throughout the story, which added depth to his character.
I enjoyed Winston James’ narration. However I did not like Elyce Anthony’s, especially her male voice, just too pitchy .
Overall, while there were some elements I enjoyed, the book fell short for me.
Thanks to RB Media and NetGalley for the ALC!
Even though I tried my best, I couldn't find myself loving this book. The story felt long, flat and repetitive, and lost my interest as it progressed. There were just too many insecurities on Jade's part, which made it hard for me to connect with her character. And then there were the many unresolved issues, especially regarding Trent and his mom, which left me unsatisfied and wanting more closure.
However, one aspect of the book that stood out to me was the spiritual and religious elements. I also appreciated how Trent maintained his focus throughout the story, which added depth to his character.
I enjoyed Winston James’ narration. However I did not like Elyce Anthony’s, especially her male voice, just too pitchy .
Overall, while there were some elements I enjoyed, the book fell short for me.
Thanks to RB Media and NetGalley for the ALC!
jpeden314's review against another edition
challenging
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
I’m not sure where to begin this review. The story follows Trent and Jade and their tumultuous relationship. Trent is an ex NFL player and Jade is a single mother who is struggling to stay afloat. There were many times I wanted to DNF this book. I stuck it out for review purposes. Both characters are so very immature, it’s hard to take them seriously. I never really felt the connection they supposedly had, other than a sexual one. The spice was good, I just didn’t like the way they both used sex to manipulate the other. Jade’s inner monologue seemed very self-aware but her actions didn’t match at all. The book was also really long. I regularly read books this long but this one felt like it was dragging. The storyline with the stripping was really unnecessary. Truly just made me want to punch Trent in the face. The way he never opened up emotionally was just so bad. There was a heavy theme of religion and it also felt strange given other things that happen in the book. Gah, I don’t know but this book just wasn’t for me. The narrators were good but it was a little hard to follow who was supposed to be speaking at times.
eviemiller's review against another edition
3.0
Admittedly I’m struggling a bit with this review. This book started so good. The story and characters were intriguing and I was motivated to move forward. As it progressed, I liked the characters less and less, so rooting for their success became harder and harder. Lots of insecurities, childish behavior, and just not being super good to each other/a bit toxic. All to kind of be brushed aside by a series of extremely steamy moments (which were sweat inducing) where a lot of pillow promises and vows are made. Overall, I just didn’t connect with the characters enough to become invested in their story. That being said, the writing was good and the narrators were fantastic.
wellreadsinger's review
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
the_love_librarian's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I've been looking forward to starting the Connecticut Kings series! This football series is co-written by Love Belvin and Christina C. Jones. While I'm a forever fan of CCCJ, this was my first read by Love Belvin and I have mixed feelings about the writing.
Love in the Red Zone follows Trent, former famous Connecticut Kings QB who was recently released from a short prison stint after a lapse in judgment that took his career away from him. Now he's out, and has been using his faith and time coaching youth football to grow as a man and make sure he doesn't go back to the person he used to be. He also has dreams of returning to professional football.
Jade is a single mom who is coached by Trent. Due to Trent keeping a low profile after his release and going by his initials, Jade has no idea who Trent is or anything about his past. That doesn't stop Trent from stepping in to help Jade and her son when they fall on rough times, including taking them under his roof and helping her get back on her feet.
The story had the makings to be great, but the execution fell flat. The book started off slow with a lot of info dumping and over explanation, and while the middle of the story picked up, it then flattened out again and left me disappointed. I'm going to continue with the series because I'm excited to read the books CCJ wrote, but I'll definitely go into Love Belvin's books with lowered expectations.
Love in the Red Zone follows Trent, former famous Connecticut Kings QB who was recently released from a short prison stint after a lapse in judgment that took his career away from him. Now he's out, and has been using his faith and time coaching youth football to grow as a man and make sure he doesn't go back to the person he used to be. He also has dreams of returning to professional football.
Jade is a single mom who is coached by Trent. Due to Trent keeping a low profile after his release and going by his initials, Jade has no idea who Trent is or anything about his past. That doesn't stop Trent from stepping in to help Jade and her son when they fall on rough times, including taking them under his roof and helping her get back on her feet.
The story had the makings to be great, but the execution fell flat. The book started off slow with a lot of info dumping and over explanation, and while the middle of the story picked up, it then flattened out again and left me disappointed. I'm going to continue with the series because I'm excited to read the books CCJ wrote, but I'll definitely go into Love Belvin's books with lowered expectations.
kristyb_readsromance's review
emotional
funny
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5