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culzean's review against another edition
dark
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Panic attacks/disorders, Suicide, Alcohol, Animal death, Death, Gaslighting, Kidnapping, Medical trauma, Murder, Sexual harassment, Trafficking, Blood, Emotional abuse, Pregnancy, Stalking, Violence, Toxic friendship, Gun violence, Injury/Injury detail, Physical abuse, Toxic relationship, and Animal cruelty
allingoodtime's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
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? It's complicated
5.0
It’s been 4 years since I’ve had the pleasure of reading a Chicago Stars book, and that’s way too long. I have high hopes that the author will continue this series again since there were a lot of fun new characters added to the roster in this story.
The beginning of this story really had me curious as to who I would and wouldn’t like. Both main characters seemed to be not-so-kind. Turns out they are both exceedingly kind, thoughtful, smart, and humble. They’re both amazing in their field but are also very aware of the privilege their careers afford them. And they work very hard to keep in top condition.
Thaddeus is such a down to earth guy, especially for being a top-rated football player. He is respectful to all women and expects women to be respectful of themselves. While he has a career that doesn’t always work out with having a significant other and/or family, he understands being with someone like him will not be a good fit for someone like Olivia.
Olivia has always had lofty goals, and with her talent she could very well reach those goals. She’s been derailed by tragedy and has had to keep her troubles secret in order to keep her career on track. She also knows something about Thaddeus that makes doing a tour with the man very difficult for her. Thad and Olivia have it out pretty early in the book, and that distaste they have for one another eventually turns to passion.
There is an underlying mystery and threat this couple faces that draws them closer and closer throughout this story. Their chemistry just keeps building throughout and I couldn’t help but love every brush of the hand and stolen glance they had. Once things start clearing up and their lives return to “normal”, Olivia and Thad must decide if what they have is worth compromising their goals. Goals they’ve had their whole adult lives.
The heartache and healing this couple goes through was a joy to read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Stalking and Emotional abuse
Minor: Sexual harassment
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