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New York Leopards #1
Rush Me
When post-grad Rachael Hamilton accidentally gate-crashes a pro-athlete party, she ends up face-to-face with Ryan Carter, the NFL's most beloved quarterback.
While most girls would be thrilled to meet the attractive young millionaire, Rachael would rather spend time with books than at sporting events, and she has more important things to worry about than romance. Like her parents pressuring her to leave her unpaid publishing internship for law school.
But when Ryan's rookie teammate attaches himself to Rachael, she ends up cohosting Friday-night dinners for half a dozen football players.
Over pancake brunches, charity galas and Alexander the Great, Rachael realizes all the judgments she'd made about Ryan are wrong. But how can a Midwestern Irish-Catholic jock with commitment problems and an artsy, gun-shy Jewish New Englander ever forge a partnership? Rachael must let down her barriers if she wants real love--even if that opens her up to pain that could send her back into her emotional shell forever.
89,000 words
While most girls would be thrilled to meet the attractive young millionaire, Rachael would rather spend time with books than at sporting events, and she has more important things to worry about than romance. Like her parents pressuring her to leave her unpaid publishing internship for law school.
But when Ryan's rookie teammate attaches himself to Rachael, she ends up cohosting Friday-night dinners for half a dozen football players.
Over pancake brunches, charity galas and Alexander the Great, Rachael realizes all the judgments she'd made about Ryan are wrong. But how can a Midwestern Irish-Catholic jock with commitment problems and an artsy, gun-shy Jewish New Englander ever forge a partnership? Rachael must let down her barriers if she wants real love--even if that opens her up to pain that could send her back into her emotional shell forever.
89,000 words
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2013
44 people are currently reading
3598 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 464 reviews
May 15, 2013
I love opposites attract books, mostly because I think that it takes someone who has a different mindset than you to open your eyes to a new way of thinking. This book is all about the way that Rachel and Ryan bring out the best in each other, and that's what made me love it!!!!
Rachel is studious and responsible...not necessarily a nerd, but more of an artsy, deep thinking kind of girl. Her group of friends are the kind that may look a little off the wall and say weird philosophical things that make you have to analyze their words before comprehending them. Ryan, on the other hand, is a football Quarterback. And that's all anyone really sees in him, even most of his friends.
When Rachel accidentally walks into the wrong party house and finds herself amidst huge, musclebound drunk guys and plastic Barbie doll girls, she naturally feels a bit intimidated. Finding her way out of the house seems to be a problem...all those muscles in the way, you know! Her wanderings lead her to the wrong bedroom, where her first impression of Ryan is not ideal, to say the least. These two definitely do NOT hit it off at first, so if you're sick of the love at first sight trope, this could be the book for you!!
These two dance around each other for quite some time, but they actually become friends before they let their sexual attraction get in the way...despite Ryan's over confidence in the woman department, Rachel holds her own against the guy she considers a cocky jock with little substance. Boy, is she wrong! Ryan stole my heart, and Rachel did too.
While I found Rachel's lack of knowledge about football fairly unbelievable...I mean, they DO live in the USA...football is practically shoved in your face here...her ignorance definitely helped her stay indifferent to the football god that is Ryan. Not to mention, this is one heck of a fairy tale story...every young girl wants to be the one who turns the head of the hottest guy in the room, without even trying. Rachel sure does turn Ryan's head...she intrigues him, infuriates him, and turns him on...in that order.
This was a fun book...nothing earth shattering, but on a purely entertainment level, it hit the mark!!!
My thanks so Carina Press and Net Galley for the chance to read this in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2015
With Ryan, I felt intelligent, witty, charming. I felt adventurous and beautiful and thrilling. I felt like I was a heroine.
Swoon alert! Meet Ryan Carter. He rides a motorcycle, and he is a millionaire pro-athlete quarterback.
Tousled honey-blond hair topped a face of sharp angles and smooth planes. Broad shoulders tapered to a narrow waist, and since he'd misplaced his shirt I had an unobstructed view of the well-defined abs and golden glow usually seen on billboard models.
Rachel is a bookish heroine. She know nothing about sports, and she is not that impressed by Ryan when they first met.
"I am not interested."
By the way his eyes narrowed, I could tell that hadn't been the wisest thing to say.
"Really". He perused my body in a deliberately intimate manner. "You sure about that?"
I shivered and concentrated once more on the wall. "You're not my type."
"And what's your type?" He rose and came toward me with the slow strides of a big cat.
Artistic. Funny. Bespectacled. Not a golden, arrogant prince with a warrior's body.
But God, those eyes cut through me.
By chance, Ryan and Rachel come together. It might have been slightly implausible that the Leopards adopted Rachel, but I loved it! Abe is a wonderful side character. The friendships are a huge part of this book - and they are awesome. And of course, we get the extremely funny "my celeb boyfriend meet my clueless friends"-situations.
"Everyone's so appalled I dare approach you," I murmured. "Makes me want to ask you to sign my chest."
His eyes sparkles with blue fire, kindling the same flame deep in my belly. "Really." His gaze lowered to the lacy camisole peeping out beneath my cardigan. His smile spread slowly, like dawn over water. "Got a pen?"
I flipped my hair back, grinning up at him. "You're not that lucky."
The writing is beautiful. It is funny, endearing and heartwarming. It didn't make it fully to the top, but it is a wonderful angst-free NA novel set in New York. It is completely PG, but it still made me smile and awwwww a lot.
He tasted sweet and familiar and wonderful, and happiness rushed through my body, curling my toes, sighing through my chest.
Thanks for Carina Press and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. It was a pleasure!
Swoon alert! Meet Ryan Carter. He rides a motorcycle, and he is a millionaire pro-athlete quarterback.
Tousled honey-blond hair topped a face of sharp angles and smooth planes. Broad shoulders tapered to a narrow waist, and since he'd misplaced his shirt I had an unobstructed view of the well-defined abs and golden glow usually seen on billboard models.
Rachel is a bookish heroine. She know nothing about sports, and she is not that impressed by Ryan when they first met.
"I am not interested."
By the way his eyes narrowed, I could tell that hadn't been the wisest thing to say.
"Really". He perused my body in a deliberately intimate manner. "You sure about that?"
I shivered and concentrated once more on the wall. "You're not my type."
"And what's your type?" He rose and came toward me with the slow strides of a big cat.
Artistic. Funny. Bespectacled. Not a golden, arrogant prince with a warrior's body.
But God, those eyes cut through me.
By chance, Ryan and Rachel come together. It might have been slightly implausible that the Leopards adopted Rachel, but I loved it! Abe is a wonderful side character. The friendships are a huge part of this book - and they are awesome. And of course, we get the extremely funny "my celeb boyfriend meet my clueless friends"-situations.
"Everyone's so appalled I dare approach you," I murmured. "Makes me want to ask you to sign my chest."
His eyes sparkles with blue fire, kindling the same flame deep in my belly. "Really." His gaze lowered to the lacy camisole peeping out beneath my cardigan. His smile spread slowly, like dawn over water. "Got a pen?"
I flipped my hair back, grinning up at him. "You're not that lucky."
The writing is beautiful. It is funny, endearing and heartwarming. It didn't make it fully to the top, but it is a wonderful angst-free NA novel set in New York. It is completely PG, but it still made me smile and awwwww a lot.
He tasted sweet and familiar and wonderful, and happiness rushed through my body, curling my toes, sighing through my chest.
Thanks for Carina Press and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. It was a pleasure!
April 22, 2013
3.5 STARS.
Intelligent jock and all round big hearted star of NFL Ryan Carter, meets nerdy shy feminist Rachael Hamilton in a chance encounter. Sparks fly,insults are traded and therein begins the unlikely relationship. This couple could not be further apart in the personality scale, but as in all good romances we know that opposites MUST attract. But don't be fooled readers this is one rocky journey.
Misunderstandings are aplenty in this story, there are Insecurities flying around from both camps. Both characters have their flaws and likeable factor. There is no insta love thank goodness, and a happily ever after that makes the journey worth while.
I enjoyed this story, I am always a fab of sport related romances, lets just say I always find the hero easier to fall in love with. There won't be awards given out for originality of this novel, but the author certainly knows how to put together a well written book, with the right amount of drama and steam.
The story is told from the heroines point of view. This girl is neurotic but I found myself falling for her quirky, maddening ways. She was as beautiful as she was crazy.
I would have like to have connected more with the books hero, but I guess I needed to be satisfied with the heroines descriptive swooning over his typical football image.
It's a book to relax with, no great drama or shocking turns. Easy run of this mill romance with enough to keep me turning pages. There's nothing really to complain about here, it's just not got the wow factor for me this time, but utterly enjoyable all the same.
3.5 NFL hunky stars.
Intelligent jock and all round big hearted star of NFL Ryan Carter, meets nerdy shy feminist Rachael Hamilton in a chance encounter. Sparks fly,insults are traded and therein begins the unlikely relationship. This couple could not be further apart in the personality scale, but as in all good romances we know that opposites MUST attract. But don't be fooled readers this is one rocky journey.
Misunderstandings are aplenty in this story, there are Insecurities flying around from both camps. Both characters have their flaws and likeable factor. There is no insta love thank goodness, and a happily ever after that makes the journey worth while.
I enjoyed this story, I am always a fab of sport related romances, lets just say I always find the hero easier to fall in love with. There won't be awards given out for originality of this novel, but the author certainly knows how to put together a well written book, with the right amount of drama and steam.
The story is told from the heroines point of view. This girl is neurotic but I found myself falling for her quirky, maddening ways. She was as beautiful as she was crazy.
I would have like to have connected more with the books hero, but I guess I needed to be satisfied with the heroines descriptive swooning over his typical football image.
It's a book to relax with, no great drama or shocking turns. Easy run of this mill romance with enough to keep me turning pages. There's nothing really to complain about here, it's just not got the wow factor for me this time, but utterly enjoyable all the same.
3.5 NFL hunky stars.
April 23, 2013
Really liked this one. Reminded me of when I first discovered Susan Elizabeth Philips and her Chicago Stars series, couldn't get enough of them. Think this is a debut novel and it is very well written. Rachel might have been a bit annoying at times but that was just her character. The sparks flew around these two. Loved it. Ryan, what a sweetheart, good-looking, sporty, rich, nice, Irish (sort of) - Rachel made an assumption that maybe he was just a dumb jock but he was far from it. Would have loved to have seen more of his family. But I did get a nice epilogue so that was nice.
April 8, 2013
Cute Story....
First we have NFL QB Ryan Carter.. sweet, sexy and more than just a jock. He can be an ass for sure and he goes through girls like crazy but he's honest with them and they know what they are getting...
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Then we have Rachael.. Rachael Rachael Rachael (I say this out loud in a condescending voice because she really go on my nerves being so snarky all the time...She's interning for free at a publishing company and temping at a couple of places trying to make ends meet until she can land her dream job. She's a book nerd. Has a sweet side, you just have to dig real deep to get to it.. Like real real deep.
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When these two meet at a party Rachael accidently crashes they are both attracted to each other immediately.. but Rachael insults him with the whole dumb jock thing and Ryan insults her back and it doesnt end well. Well.. as fates would have it they keep bumping in to each other and end up hooking up.. but they fight so freaking much! I almost feel like there was too much time spent with them constantly arguing so I didnt get to see their relationship develop as much as I would have liked. The old saying goes that "opposites attract" and well.. these two could not be more opposite. But they kept going back to each other..
I liked Allison's writing style.. the story flowed smoothly and I didnt skim any parts. I was interested in the characters even though I wanted to slap the crap out of both of them several times. I wish the steam factor had been higher.. there were a couple of good scenes but they needed more spice since there wasnt but a couple of them. Although they were good scenes.. they just needed to be longer IMO ;). I know I know.. not all books need nitty gritty sexy times.. I just happen to like them!
Cute story!
ARC provied by Carina Press via Netgalley for an honest review
First we have NFL QB Ryan Carter.. sweet, sexy and more than just a jock. He can be an ass for sure and he goes through girls like crazy but he's honest with them and they know what they are getting...
[image error]
Then we have Rachael.. Rachael Rachael Rachael (I say this out loud in a condescending voice because she really go on my nerves being so snarky all the time...She's interning for free at a publishing company and temping at a couple of places trying to make ends meet until she can land her dream job. She's a book nerd. Has a sweet side, you just have to dig real deep to get to it.. Like real real deep.
[image error]
When these two meet at a party Rachael accidently crashes they are both attracted to each other immediately.. but Rachael insults him with the whole dumb jock thing and Ryan insults her back and it doesnt end well. Well.. as fates would have it they keep bumping in to each other and end up hooking up.. but they fight so freaking much! I almost feel like there was too much time spent with them constantly arguing so I didnt get to see their relationship develop as much as I would have liked. The old saying goes that "opposites attract" and well.. these two could not be more opposite. But they kept going back to each other..
I liked Allison's writing style.. the story flowed smoothly and I didnt skim any parts. I was interested in the characters even though I wanted to slap the crap out of both of them several times. I wish the steam factor had been higher.. there were a couple of good scenes but they needed more spice since there wasnt but a couple of them. Although they were good scenes.. they just needed to be longer IMO ;). I know I know.. not all books need nitty gritty sexy times.. I just happen to like them!
Cute story!
ARC provied by Carina Press via Netgalley for an honest review
May 10, 2013
I was thoroughly underwhelmed by this book.
I should give fair warning that sports books are not my favorite. I read them, but I don't have any fantasies involving athletes and I don't get anything special out of the theme. However, I wanted to try "Rush Me" because it is Carina Press's first go at the New Adult genre and it is based in New York, my neck of the woods.
Another preface is that I am a New Jersey Jewish girl. You wouldn't think that that would be relevant but it kinda is here. This book is very religion-y and very Jewish. They talk a lot about having Shabbat dinner and going home for Rosh Hashannah. There are a lot of Jewish references. The reason that I said I was Jewish before stating this next statement is so no one thinks I'm being a jerk: I didn't like all of the religious talk in this book. I don't like reading much about religion in general and here it felt out of place and odd. Just saying...
I also didn't feel the romance between Rachael and Ryan. In the first few scenes he is a complete jerk to her and she still lusts over him and wants him. It just came across as desperate and like something a girl with low self-esteem would do. I didn't connect to Rachael as a character after that.
Just overall, this book didn't really work for me. I mean, it had some cute moments and I didn't mind reading it but I wouldn't seek this one out again.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I should give fair warning that sports books are not my favorite. I read them, but I don't have any fantasies involving athletes and I don't get anything special out of the theme. However, I wanted to try "Rush Me" because it is Carina Press's first go at the New Adult genre and it is based in New York, my neck of the woods.
Another preface is that I am a New Jersey Jewish girl. You wouldn't think that that would be relevant but it kinda is here. This book is very religion-y and very Jewish. They talk a lot about having Shabbat dinner and going home for Rosh Hashannah. There are a lot of Jewish references. The reason that I said I was Jewish before stating this next statement is so no one thinks I'm being a jerk: I didn't like all of the religious talk in this book. I don't like reading much about religion in general and here it felt out of place and odd. Just saying...
I also didn't feel the romance between Rachael and Ryan. In the first few scenes he is a complete jerk to her and she still lusts over him and wants him. It just came across as desperate and like something a girl with low self-esteem would do. I didn't connect to Rachael as a character after that.
Just overall, this book didn't really work for me. I mean, it had some cute moments and I didn't mind reading it but I wouldn't seek this one out again.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
July 23, 2013
Initial reaction: Yeah...I need to think about this one, but it's unapologetic chick-lit. I wanted to mentally headsmack some sense into the leading characters several times, but the premise of the story wasn't terrible. It was just really generic and over-the-top in execution.
Full review:
This book irritated the ever-loving crumb out of me, for about 95% of the time that I read it. Mercifully, it proved a quick read when all was said and done, but at the same time - I'll admit it held my attention from beginning to end. So if you're asking me whether or not I liked this book - I don't know on what side I fall definitively. This left me sitting on the fence. I think Allison Parr carried the storyline well enough in the structure, but this felt like hearing nails on a chalkboard in spurts.
The biggest part of my annoyance came from the unapologetic and insufferable leading characters. Rachel is a flighty bookworm-ish assistant at a publishing house, Ryan is a major NFL star whose name by mention alone draws a crowd. When Rachel stumbles into the wrong party one night, she begins a tumultuous relationship with Ryan that involves crude assumptions about his profession. I could believe that Rachel knew nothing about the inside workings of the NFL, but even with bringing my own knowledge and interest in sports into this read, Rachel really just didn't have a single clue about the sport at all - not even for general/basic knowledge. She's clumsy, her voice runs a mile a minute and I felt like banging my head against the wall, especially when watching her heated exchanges with Ryan.
Ryan's just as terrible for brushing off Rachel whenever he gets a chance, and at the same time making assumptions about her that lead to the two clashing frequently. I've read my share of hot-blooded, heated romances, but somehow - I don't know what it was about this particular book that turned me off about the heated exchanges between these characters. Part of me wants to say that Rachel's character was just too OTT for my liking and I couldn't sympathize with her at all. Her mind flies in about a million directions, and her internal voice was too grating for me to stomach in turns. Ryan was a little easier to follow and see his frustration towards Rachel, but he's not much better in the assumption and accusation department.
Ultimately, Rachel and Ryan have to weather their insecurities and tough out past and present events to having a coming to terms with each other. By the end, I did think it tied events up well for what it offered, but it was too much of a slog to get through, and wore me out emotionally by the time I finished - not in a good or satisfying way. I wouldn't really recommend this for those who dislike cliched, formulaic, and unlikable leads in a romance. It's a shame, because I was in the mood for a funny, flirty, and sports themed story, and I can't say this is one of the stronger offerings for those measures.
Overall score: 1.5/5
Full review:
This book irritated the ever-loving crumb out of me, for about 95% of the time that I read it. Mercifully, it proved a quick read when all was said and done, but at the same time - I'll admit it held my attention from beginning to end. So if you're asking me whether or not I liked this book - I don't know on what side I fall definitively. This left me sitting on the fence. I think Allison Parr carried the storyline well enough in the structure, but this felt like hearing nails on a chalkboard in spurts.
The biggest part of my annoyance came from the unapologetic and insufferable leading characters. Rachel is a flighty bookworm-ish assistant at a publishing house, Ryan is a major NFL star whose name by mention alone draws a crowd. When Rachel stumbles into the wrong party one night, she begins a tumultuous relationship with Ryan that involves crude assumptions about his profession. I could believe that Rachel knew nothing about the inside workings of the NFL, but even with bringing my own knowledge and interest in sports into this read, Rachel really just didn't have a single clue about the sport at all - not even for general/basic knowledge. She's clumsy, her voice runs a mile a minute and I felt like banging my head against the wall, especially when watching her heated exchanges with Ryan.
Ryan's just as terrible for brushing off Rachel whenever he gets a chance, and at the same time making assumptions about her that lead to the two clashing frequently. I've read my share of hot-blooded, heated romances, but somehow - I don't know what it was about this particular book that turned me off about the heated exchanges between these characters. Part of me wants to say that Rachel's character was just too OTT for my liking and I couldn't sympathize with her at all. Her mind flies in about a million directions, and her internal voice was too grating for me to stomach in turns. Ryan was a little easier to follow and see his frustration towards Rachel, but he's not much better in the assumption and accusation department.
Ultimately, Rachel and Ryan have to weather their insecurities and tough out past and present events to having a coming to terms with each other. By the end, I did think it tied events up well for what it offered, but it was too much of a slog to get through, and wore me out emotionally by the time I finished - not in a good or satisfying way. I wouldn't really recommend this for those who dislike cliched, formulaic, and unlikable leads in a romance. It's a shame, because I was in the mood for a funny, flirty, and sports themed story, and I can't say this is one of the stronger offerings for those measures.
Overall score: 1.5/5
April 20, 2013
This book seems to be getting a wide range of reviews. First off this is not a fast and light read. It is a thought provoking book. It is a smart and witty. There is a lot of lead up to the love part of this story. There are a lot of books out there that rush into the relationship and the sex without building characters and the relationships. Not that there is anything wrong with that, I actually like those books. This one just had a little something... more.
Rachel is a twenty-something struggling to survive in NYC. She is a proud woman who wants to make a name for herself doing the thing she loves, publishing books. She is a book loving nerdy girl. One night while out with friends, she accidentally crashes a party, a pro-football party. While at the party she meets Ryan Carter.
Ryan Carter meets a woman who baffles him. In a city full of fans he finally meets someone who has no idea who he is. And she gives him an earful. They develop a tenuous friendship. That friendship develops into something a little bit more.
Shocked into silence, I snapped my mouth shut and followed him. Guerrilla compliments; conqueror of sarcasm.
Rachel is little proud and a lot scared. Ryan is a lot stubborn and a little insecure. This book takes us on their journey to find something more.
I lifted my lips that last half inch between us and pressed them against his. For a heartbeat, the kiss was soft and tender, newly born. I could feel his heartbeat under my hand, could feel my pulse leaping in my throat.
I loved this book. It was smart and funny and left me feeling warm and fuzzy. I loved the back-story of the old high school flames and the annoying girl who you love to hate. I would recommend it to someone who loves romance with HEA with a little something... more.
5 Stars!
**This book was given by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.**
Rachel is a twenty-something struggling to survive in NYC. She is a proud woman who wants to make a name for herself doing the thing she loves, publishing books. She is a book loving nerdy girl. One night while out with friends, she accidentally crashes a party, a pro-football party. While at the party she meets Ryan Carter.
Ryan Carter meets a woman who baffles him. In a city full of fans he finally meets someone who has no idea who he is. And she gives him an earful. They develop a tenuous friendship. That friendship develops into something a little bit more.
Shocked into silence, I snapped my mouth shut and followed him. Guerrilla compliments; conqueror of sarcasm.
Rachel is little proud and a lot scared. Ryan is a lot stubborn and a little insecure. This book takes us on their journey to find something more.
I lifted my lips that last half inch between us and pressed them against his. For a heartbeat, the kiss was soft and tender, newly born. I could feel his heartbeat under my hand, could feel my pulse leaping in my throat.
I loved this book. It was smart and funny and left me feeling warm and fuzzy. I loved the back-story of the old high school flames and the annoying girl who you love to hate. I would recommend it to someone who loves romance with HEA with a little something... more.
5 Stars!
**This book was given by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.**
October 28, 2015
I totally enjoyed this story. The interplay between Rachael and her new found “guy-friends” is awesome. I wanted to sit down and eat pizza and watch football with them. The instant chemistry that Ryan and Rachael felt was great, but I loved their sparring even more. Add to the mix meals, parties, smexy shoes and two “normal” people getting to know each other.
Ryan is a famous football player and he is gorgeous, rich, fun loving, but he is also totally high on himself. Or at least that is how he likes to play it with women. When Ryan first meets Rachael, he can tell she is different from the wannabes. But as the QB and captain of his team, he still wants to protect his buddies from women who might get too close.
Rachael was just trying to meet up with some friends when she happened into someone else’s condo. The only quiet room seemed to be the bedroom, so she slipped in hoping to make a call to find her friends. Getting caught by Ryan wasn’t too bad, but when she had to return the next day to get her cashmere scarf she dropped, Ryan grew hostile. Because, when retrieving said scarf, the whole O-line seemed to think she was there to play poker and eat pizza with them…which she totally enjoyed. In Rachael, the team found their mascot. Unfortunately, Ryan doesn’t like it, but he begins to tag along to “team” dinners at Rachael’s for the sake of the team. I enjoyed the dialogue, quick wits and funny situations almost as much as the angst and lust!
I loved these two as they both let their hair down, let it hang out and let the chips fall where they may…They let their relationship happen and they nurtured it in a way that so genuine and loving. I highly recommend! Enjoy!
LOVED THIS STORY...how or why two stars are sitting up there when the book is not even released and no reviewers have read/rated??
Football...awesome
Hotties who have great lines...awesome
Book loving girl...come on super awesome!
More to come on www.nocturnereads.com
May 29, 2013
Originally reviewed here @ Angieville
I will admit, I liked the cover of Allison Parr's debut novel RUSH ME right off the bat when I first saw it floating around the blogosphere. I could tell it was going to be marketed new adult as soon as I saw it, and that's probably a marketing win right there. But the reason I liked it was because everything I knew about the book seemed to come together in the cover. The bold stripes of color and the font work really well for this sports romance. I particularly liked the colors set across the black and white photo, and that the couple was sort of naturally or ordinarily presented (and attired). It was both a relief and an eye-catcher, if you will. I still waffled back and forth a bit on picking it up until I read Li's review over at Me and My Books. In it, she compared it to another new adult title she'd read and found this one to be decidedly preferred. Li has excellent taste, in case you were wondering. And so that (and the extremely attractive price) was all it took to push me over the edge from waffling to buying.
Rachael can't seem to gain any traction. She took the unpaid internship with a small-ish publishing house in the hopes that it would open doors to a career in the industry. But it seems she's just biding her time, blowing through her savings, not getting anywhere. The same could be said for her love live, or lack thereof. These days the only kind of social life she engages in is when her roommate Eva drags her out with her gaggle of fellow theater friends. Which is how Rachael finds herself one night in the wrong apartment at the wrong party. Surrounded by a host of men too brawny and women too clingy to be Eva's crowd, she realizes she's crashed some sort of sports-related party or other. Infinitely outside her comfort zone, she attempts to beat a path out of there. Unfortunately, said path is barred by a couple of bruisers who assume she's just another in a long line of groupies. The situation devolves from there. Utterly disgusted, she walks out without her scarf. And it's a nice enough scarf that she's forced to return to retrieve it. And wouldn't you know in the cold light of day, some of those big, bad football players don't look all that big and bad. They invite her in. They're interested in what she has to say. All but Ryan Carter. The star quarterback is convinced she's there for one reason and one reason only. He wants her gone in no uncertain terms. But by the time he makes his opinion known, the team has already sort of adopted her. And perhaps most surprising of all, Rachael finds herself . . . wanting to stay.
I love a good prickly protagonist. Or two. Together, Rachael and Ryan are definitely the kind of stiff, stubborn immovable forces I love. Plenty of push and pull (and swoon) for your buck. I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting going into RUSH ME, but what I got was more substantial and enjoyable from the word go. These characters possessed fully developed lives and, happily, all the different aspects of those lives made appearances on the page. The palpable presence of family, education, co-workers, teammates, and religion helped me construct a vision of people I could love, who could love each other, despite their very normal, very real fears and the miles of vastly different experiences separating them. I've never lived in Manhattan, but I've visited several times over the years, and I thoroughly enjoyed living inside Rachael's Manhattan for the duration of this book. Her observations and insights about the people and places around her held my attention. While she may have struggled discerning the motivations of some key players in her life, her point of view felt continually real to me. Here, a favorite passage that immediately landed me right at her side:
It was a pleasure accompanying her through that dance of consequence, especially as she got to know Ryan and the team and was able to see her city and its people in an entirely new way. It was another pleasure absorbing the wry humor of this story. A quick exchange between Rachael and her roommate:
What can I say? I appreciate a quietly tossed in Pride and Prejudice moment. In fact, I appreciated everything about this sweet, surprisingly grounded story of opposites attracting against a backdrop of professional football and the big city.
I will admit, I liked the cover of Allison Parr's debut novel RUSH ME right off the bat when I first saw it floating around the blogosphere. I could tell it was going to be marketed new adult as soon as I saw it, and that's probably a marketing win right there. But the reason I liked it was because everything I knew about the book seemed to come together in the cover. The bold stripes of color and the font work really well for this sports romance. I particularly liked the colors set across the black and white photo, and that the couple was sort of naturally or ordinarily presented (and attired). It was both a relief and an eye-catcher, if you will. I still waffled back and forth a bit on picking it up until I read Li's review over at Me and My Books. In it, she compared it to another new adult title she'd read and found this one to be decidedly preferred. Li has excellent taste, in case you were wondering. And so that (and the extremely attractive price) was all it took to push me over the edge from waffling to buying.
Rachael can't seem to gain any traction. She took the unpaid internship with a small-ish publishing house in the hopes that it would open doors to a career in the industry. But it seems she's just biding her time, blowing through her savings, not getting anywhere. The same could be said for her love live, or lack thereof. These days the only kind of social life she engages in is when her roommate Eva drags her out with her gaggle of fellow theater friends. Which is how Rachael finds herself one night in the wrong apartment at the wrong party. Surrounded by a host of men too brawny and women too clingy to be Eva's crowd, she realizes she's crashed some sort of sports-related party or other. Infinitely outside her comfort zone, she attempts to beat a path out of there. Unfortunately, said path is barred by a couple of bruisers who assume she's just another in a long line of groupies. The situation devolves from there. Utterly disgusted, she walks out without her scarf. And it's a nice enough scarf that she's forced to return to retrieve it. And wouldn't you know in the cold light of day, some of those big, bad football players don't look all that big and bad. They invite her in. They're interested in what she has to say. All but Ryan Carter. The star quarterback is convinced she's there for one reason and one reason only. He wants her gone in no uncertain terms. But by the time he makes his opinion known, the team has already sort of adopted her. And perhaps most surprising of all, Rachael finds herself . . . wanting to stay.
I love a good prickly protagonist. Or two. Together, Rachael and Ryan are definitely the kind of stiff, stubborn immovable forces I love. Plenty of push and pull (and swoon) for your buck. I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting going into RUSH ME, but what I got was more substantial and enjoyable from the word go. These characters possessed fully developed lives and, happily, all the different aspects of those lives made appearances on the page. The palpable presence of family, education, co-workers, teammates, and religion helped me construct a vision of people I could love, who could love each other, despite their very normal, very real fears and the miles of vastly different experiences separating them. I've never lived in Manhattan, but I've visited several times over the years, and I thoroughly enjoyed living inside Rachael's Manhattan for the duration of this book. Her observations and insights about the people and places around her held my attention. While she may have struggled discerning the motivations of some key players in her life, her point of view felt continually real to me. Here, a favorite passage that immediately landed me right at her side:
The room's centerpiece, a seven-tiered fountain, obscured the flock. Bubbly champagne frothed downward as waiters reached out to catch the golden ambrosia. They circulated through the room with their balanced platters, passing by women in long gowns and men in black jackets. Murmured voices were underlain by the slightest whisper of classical music. Precious stones winked in earrings and cuff links, and guests appraised each other from behind their champagne flutes. A young woman in a red dress tossed a flirtatious glance at a young man on an older lady's arm, while two men huddled together in the shadows, trading secrets over empty glasses. People touched and parted, a dance of consequence, as everyone tried to break into circles higher than their own.
It was a pleasure accompanying her through that dance of consequence, especially as she got to know Ryan and the team and was able to see her city and its people in an entirely new way. It was another pleasure absorbing the wry humor of this story. A quick exchange between Rachael and her roommate:
"Ryan Carter wants to have dinner with me on Friday. And like a dozen other people. But still." I collapsed onto the sofa and kicked off my shoes.
Eva frowned. "But aren't you in a fight?"
"Yes. I don't know. Is this a really bad idea? Apparently he suggested it."
Eva's grin broadened and her dark eyes twinkled. She peeled off the rubber dish gloves and dropped down next to me on the sagging cushions. "I think it's a great idea."
"But what if he's a Wickham?"
She shrugged. "Maybe you're a Lydia."
I shuddered. "Don't say such things." Lydia might have caught Wickham in the end, but she was still vain and flippant and unlikeable. "I want to be Elizabeth."
Eva gave me a look.
"Fine." My head dropped against the back of the couch. "I'm a Jane. I'm a Jane, okay?" The staid older sister.
"There's nothing wrong with being a Jane."
"That's what the Elizabeths always say," I muttered darkly.
What can I say? I appreciate a quietly tossed in Pride and Prejudice moment. In fact, I appreciated everything about this sweet, surprisingly grounded story of opposites attracting against a backdrop of professional football and the big city.
April 11, 2013
I was declined to get an arc for this but that didn't stop me for buying the book. The cover and blurb got me on this one. ^_^
Okay, so our heroine Rachael is an uptight b*tch.. lol. Through out the book I really didn't like her. She came to me as a mean heroine...and was surprised coz I'm not used to reading a smart ass heroine. I actually felt sorry for Ryan but I guess that's one of the reason why he and I fell in love with her. She's not your typical doormatish heroine.
The plot isn't original, I always read a hot guy meets ordinary girl, but I'm a sucker for this kind of theme. :-)
This held my attention and honestly despite the cliche storyline I couldn't put it down. The characters are flawed and stubborn but that didn't stop me for liking the story.
This is an entertaining sweet read and highly recommend it!
Rachael was on her way to a friend’s party but ended up walking into the wrong place and walks in on super sexy NFL star Ryan. Two different people held a very strong attraction to each other.
Okay, so our heroine Rachael is an uptight b*tch.. lol. Through out the book I really didn't like her. She came to me as a mean heroine...and was surprised coz I'm not used to reading a smart ass heroine. I actually felt sorry for Ryan but I guess that's one of the reason why he and I fell in love with her. She's not your typical doormatish heroine.
The plot isn't original, I always read a hot guy meets ordinary girl, but I'm a sucker for this kind of theme. :-)
This held my attention and honestly despite the cliche storyline I couldn't put it down. The characters are flawed and stubborn but that didn't stop me for liking the story.
This is an entertaining sweet read and highly recommend it!
April 13, 2013
3.5 stars
If I'm being perfectly honest, this whole book read like a B grade Romantic Comedy. But something about that just really worked for me. I was surprised to find myself really enjoying it, and read it in one sitting. There were things that I really liked, and a few things I didn't. But overall, it was a pretty good book.
Rachel Hamilton
is a post-grad living in Brooklyn with her friend and trying to make a career while interning at a publishing company. She has big dreams, but battles fear of rejection and shyness.
On her way to a theater party, she accidentally crashes what turns out to be a pro-athlete party. While looking for a way out, she stubles into Ryan Carter
or more accurately, she walks in on Ryan in the midst of a...uhem...BJ from a sports groupie.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two of them. This was NOT a story of love at first sight, and the sarcastic and at times mean comments they threw at each other were highly entertaining. At certain times it was a little much, and I wanted to hit one of them.
Even though Rachel is not typically the type of heroine I like (she's constantly going of on feminist tirades and she's extremely mean and rude to Ryan in the beginning and throughout a lot of the book. She is very snarky, and at times a borderline bitch) but there was just something about her that made her endearingly quirky.
She is also adorably clueless about all things sports.
As time goes by, Rachel and Ryan go from trading insults to forming a friendship. They bond that takes place is very realistic, and doesn't just happen overnight. It was very fun to read.
Ryan and Rachel talking about going on a carousel:
I have to say that there were times where the insult-trading went way too far, and there were quite a few cringe-worthy moments from both Ryan and Rachel.
The story itself was not anything unique. It was hate-to-love story of the shy and insecure girl meets the uber sexy football superstar quarterback. Allison Parr still manages to pull it off very well, considering that this is her debut novel.
It was a cute and humorous sports-themed, New Adult novel. I enjoyed it, but cannot say that it will be going on my favorites list.
I did become a fan of Allison Parr and her writing. I will gladly be looking forward to her future books. (Perhaps Alexa and Nate?)
If I'm being perfectly honest, this whole book read like a B grade Romantic Comedy. But something about that just really worked for me. I was surprised to find myself really enjoying it, and read it in one sitting. There were things that I really liked, and a few things I didn't. But overall, it was a pretty good book.
Rachel Hamilton
is a post-grad living in Brooklyn with her friend and trying to make a career while interning at a publishing company. She has big dreams, but battles fear of rejection and shyness.On her way to a theater party, she accidentally crashes what turns out to be a pro-athlete party. While looking for a way out, she stubles into Ryan Carter
or more accurately, she walks in on Ryan in the midst of a...uhem...BJ from a sports groupie.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two of them. This was NOT a story of love at first sight, and the sarcastic and at times mean comments they threw at each other were highly entertaining. At certain times it was a little much, and I wanted to hit one of them.
Even though Rachel is not typically the type of heroine I like (she's constantly going of on feminist tirades and she's extremely mean and rude to Ryan in the beginning and throughout a lot of the book. She is very snarky, and at times a borderline bitch) but there was just something about her that made her endearingly quirky.
"This is ridiculous. WHo cares this much about appearance? Why am I spending so much time on this? For God's sake, I shaved my legs. I hate shaving my legs. Who am I shaving them for? For society? Why am wearing the torturous, deforing device knows as heels?"
"Shut up. You can be a feminist and still like looking pretty."
I slid further down in my seat, crossing my arms and feeling grumpy. Then I perked up. "You think I look pretty?"
She is also adorably clueless about all things sports.
"Who's playing?" I asked Abe. I didn't ask what sport. I was pretty sure that would be sacrilegious.
Mike dropped down on my other side. "Michigan and Notre Dame."
So, a state and a badly mangled Parisian cathedral. "Oh. Cool."
As time goes by, Rachel and Ryan go from trading insults to forming a friendship. They bond that takes place is very realistic, and doesn't just happen overnight. It was very fun to read.
Ryan and Rachel talking about going on a carousel:
"What's the point of going up and down on a piece of wood when you have the real thing?"
My lips quirked. "That's what she said," I muttered, not quite able to help myself.
He snorted. "How come I get yelled at when I say stuff like that, when you make the exact same jokes?"
I spread my arms out airily. "Because I am filled with grace and poise."
I have to say that there were times where the insult-trading went way too far, and there were quite a few cringe-worthy moments from both Ryan and Rachel.
The story itself was not anything unique. It was hate-to-love story of the shy and insecure girl meets the uber sexy football superstar quarterback. Allison Parr still manages to pull it off very well, considering that this is her debut novel.
It was a cute and humorous sports-themed, New Adult novel. I enjoyed it, but cannot say that it will be going on my favorites list.
I did become a fan of Allison Parr and her writing. I will gladly be looking forward to her future books. (Perhaps Alexa and Nate?)
December 23, 2015
This was really great. I sort of feel like Allison Parr was reading a checklist of my common book complaints and "fixing" them.
This is:
A new adult book without a big angsty secret that apparently affects everything, but you don't get to find out what it actually is until the 75% mark.
A sports book where the sports ring true. The main character might not know sports, but I feel like the author does.
A contemporary romance where the character doesn't have it all together.
And! I'd say it's even kind of Hollywood book I want to read. This isn't a Hollywood book, of course, but what I really want is famous people dealing with having a public and private life and while this wasn't a HUGE aspect of the book, I liked that it wasn't ignored.
And it was FUNNY. I guess that's not really a complaint I have because I don't NEED books to be funny, but it's certainly appreciated!
Anyway, the relationship just felt very realistic, both the problem they have and the way they DID fit together. I loved this quote.
Re-read December 2015
Still into it!
This is:
A new adult book without a big angsty secret that apparently affects everything, but you don't get to find out what it actually is until the 75% mark.
A sports book where the sports ring true. The main character might not know sports, but I feel like the author does.
A contemporary romance where the character doesn't have it all together.
And! I'd say it's even kind of Hollywood book I want to read. This isn't a Hollywood book, of course, but what I really want is famous people dealing with having a public and private life and while this wasn't a HUGE aspect of the book, I liked that it wasn't ignored.
And it was FUNNY. I guess that's not really a complaint I have because I don't NEED books to be funny, but it's certainly appreciated!
Anyway, the relationship just felt very realistic, both the problem they have and the way they DID fit together. I loved this quote.
Re-read December 2015
Still into it!
July 26, 2018
✭✭✭✬✩~ 3.75 Stars
Rush Me is a new adult football romance, about young publishing intern Rachael Hamilton, who accidentally stumbles into a party hosted by the New York Leopards. There she meets Ryan Carter, star quarterback and the physical manifestation of everything she hated about high school. Que ensuing arguing, flirty banter and sexual tension. Y’all know the drill.
First of all, the frequent allusions to American ‘football’ greatly offended my British sports sensibilities. My idea of football is not a bunch of burly men with shoulder pads throwing around what can only really be described as a bastardised rugby ball. But I put aside my British sports notions and let myself enjoy the book. I’m kidding, obviously I wasn’t offended by American football (Or was I?...)
Jokes aside, I actually found myself enjoying this a lot more than I thought I would. I don’t read a huge ton of new adult, but I’ve been dipping my feet in over the past couple of months and actually found I have a pretty good time reading these sorts of books. Of course, we all know what they are - wish fulfilment and steamy romance, but I’ve actually found a lot of these books have far more heart to them than my preconceived notions would have let me believe. It’s kind of funny, since a lot of this book is about getting over your preconceived notions about somebody, about how you can’t fit people into a stereotyped box. I think I learned a thing or two.
But I digress. I enjoyed this book. I will say I had a bit of a hard time connecting to Rachael - she was so judgemental and superior in the beginning, but I really like that she learned to get over her prejudices. Plus, by the end of the book, she basically has my dream job. I did find her to be a little annoying and...desperate...at times. But overall I did enjoy her character and I liked that she had flaws.
Friends, we all know I’m a sucker for hate-to-love romance. So of course I was gonna love this romance. Give me any romantic situation where the couple start off bickering and hostile, and refusing to admit their attraction to each other, and slowly fall in love, and I will be guaranteed to have a goofy smile on my face. And friends, I definitely had a goofy smile on my face while reading parts of this book.
I really liked all the other guys on the team as well. They were all such nice guys, and I had this heartwarming, hilarious picture in my mind of all these intimidating, attractive, muscled athletes acting like teddy bears and supporting each other and eating pizza together. I can’t wait to read the other stories in this series, centering around some of the other guys in the team.
Overall this was a really fun, enjoyable read. I was craving a sports romance, since it’s sports season, and this gave me exactly what I wanted.
Rush Me is a new adult football romance, about young publishing intern Rachael Hamilton, who accidentally stumbles into a party hosted by the New York Leopards. There she meets Ryan Carter, star quarterback and the physical manifestation of everything she hated about high school. Que ensuing arguing, flirty banter and sexual tension. Y’all know the drill.
First of all, the frequent allusions to American ‘football’ greatly offended my British sports sensibilities. My idea of football is not a bunch of burly men with shoulder pads throwing around what can only really be described as a bastardised rugby ball. But I put aside my British sports notions and let myself enjoy the book. I’m kidding, obviously I wasn’t offended by American football (Or was I?...)
Jokes aside, I actually found myself enjoying this a lot more than I thought I would. I don’t read a huge ton of new adult, but I’ve been dipping my feet in over the past couple of months and actually found I have a pretty good time reading these sorts of books. Of course, we all know what they are - wish fulfilment and steamy romance, but I’ve actually found a lot of these books have far more heart to them than my preconceived notions would have let me believe. It’s kind of funny, since a lot of this book is about getting over your preconceived notions about somebody, about how you can’t fit people into a stereotyped box. I think I learned a thing or two.
But I digress. I enjoyed this book. I will say I had a bit of a hard time connecting to Rachael - she was so judgemental and superior in the beginning, but I really like that she learned to get over her prejudices. Plus, by the end of the book, she basically has my dream job. I did find her to be a little annoying and...desperate...at times. But overall I did enjoy her character and I liked that she had flaws.
Friends, we all know I’m a sucker for hate-to-love romance. So of course I was gonna love this romance. Give me any romantic situation where the couple start off bickering and hostile, and refusing to admit their attraction to each other, and slowly fall in love, and I will be guaranteed to have a goofy smile on my face. And friends, I definitely had a goofy smile on my face while reading parts of this book.
I really liked all the other guys on the team as well. They were all such nice guys, and I had this heartwarming, hilarious picture in my mind of all these intimidating, attractive, muscled athletes acting like teddy bears and supporting each other and eating pizza together. I can’t wait to read the other stories in this series, centering around some of the other guys in the team.
Overall this was a really fun, enjoyable read. I was craving a sports romance, since it’s sports season, and this gave me exactly what I wanted.
June 14, 2019
I usually don't like NA books, event try to avoid them. Of course, once in a while according some reviews, I choose and read.
It was one of them and I don't know whether I was in the right mood or author's style very appealing to me. I guess, I should try another book of her.
In a nutshell, I read it with a big exciment and finished very quickly and had great time whole time.
It was one of them and I don't know whether I was in the right mood or author's style very appealing to me. I guess, I should try another book of her.
In a nutshell, I read it with a big exciment and finished very quickly and had great time whole time.
April 26, 2013
Like, 4.5 stars. 4.75 stars. I don't know if it's because I was just happy to get back to romance after three weeks of course readings, but there were so many things about this book that I liked so much for getting right that I wish I'd been taking note!! I really like the way Parr approaches tropes that I love but also feel iffy about - the fact that they fight, for example, because constant fighting isn't healthy, but here with these two it comes from a place of similarities? every time the lead says that they're "so different" I was thinking that they aren't, really, that's what makes it work (on that note, more romances should be about people who aren't polar opposites), and near the end of the book someone else points this out to her and it made me so pleased. romances get people fighting all the time and then suddenly having heart-to-hearts but that's not how it works, there are different aspects of relationships at work there; I liked that Parr got that dynamic!
and I like it when books acknowledge how ridiculous and dense people can be when it comes to relationships, because both Rach and Ryan are so ridiculous. I like that the Big Gesture in the end was done by Rachael, a trope I like, but I also loved that it made sense for her to do it - they both fought for really present, reasonable reasons, and neither of them was really favoured in the narrative that made me feel annoyed. Both of them have issues. In fact after the first chapter I got worried because I thought it'd be a "guy is a dick" type story, but very quickly Parr establishes that them starting off on the wrong font was both of their faults. I love when books get that. Balance!!!!!
Both of them also dig each other a lot, and it's so nice to see that awareness of each other and each other's feelings. I loved the writing style, the conversations - both of them felt like they were on even ground, banter didn't feel forced and deeper conversation didn't feel out of place.
Other things: Rachael sometimes has little mini-rants about feminism that felt like they were modeled on what people who make fun of feminists make of (if that makes sense) but it was so well-intentioned and also really endearing that I couldn't mind!! I liked that even her bookishness wasn't beyond flaws, because books do that sometimes, giving leading ladies flaws that go unchecked. and I loved the building of a group of solid friends around them - I've read books before that involve women and teams and it always feels like a massive production, but this was simple, and sweet, and out of genuine liking. I like that the leads had money issues, I liked that both of them acknowledged it - not frequently or in a make-or-break way, but where it made sense to. Weirdly I also super liked that there was never any explicit description of how any of the characters really looked? Made it funner to imagine!
I just woke up so this isn't filled with half the enthusiasm I really feel for it, but the fact that I'm writing it first thing in the morning at all is super significant! I just enjoyed so much of it so much, you guys. I can imagine myself rereading this, so I may even bring it up to 5 stars.
and I like it when books acknowledge how ridiculous and dense people can be when it comes to relationships, because both Rach and Ryan are so ridiculous. I like that the Big Gesture in the end was done by Rachael, a trope I like, but I also loved that it made sense for her to do it - they both fought for really present, reasonable reasons, and neither of them was really favoured in the narrative that made me feel annoyed. Both of them have issues. In fact after the first chapter I got worried because I thought it'd be a "guy is a dick" type story, but very quickly Parr establishes that them starting off on the wrong font was both of their faults. I love when books get that. Balance!!!!!
Both of them also dig each other a lot, and it's so nice to see that awareness of each other and each other's feelings. I loved the writing style, the conversations - both of them felt like they were on even ground, banter didn't feel forced and deeper conversation didn't feel out of place.
Other things: Rachael sometimes has little mini-rants about feminism that felt like they were modeled on what people who make fun of feminists make of (if that makes sense) but it was so well-intentioned and also really endearing that I couldn't mind!! I liked that even her bookishness wasn't beyond flaws, because books do that sometimes, giving leading ladies flaws that go unchecked. and I loved the building of a group of solid friends around them - I've read books before that involve women and teams and it always feels like a massive production, but this was simple, and sweet, and out of genuine liking. I like that the leads had money issues, I liked that both of them acknowledged it - not frequently or in a make-or-break way, but where it made sense to. Weirdly I also super liked that there was never any explicit description of how any of the characters really looked? Made it funner to imagine!
I just woke up so this isn't filled with half the enthusiasm I really feel for it, but the fact that I'm writing it first thing in the morning at all is super significant! I just enjoyed so much of it so much, you guys. I can imagine myself rereading this, so I may even bring it up to 5 stars.
June 3, 2013
3.5 Goal-winning Stars
Game on! This “New Adult” kick has taken hold of me and won’t let go. Combined with a sports-theme and I’m a goner. Pass interferences, off side calls, roughing the quarterback, and few fumbles along the way keep this one alive and entertaining. It scored with me.
When mid-western Irish-Catholic NFL quarterback and playboy spares with New England Jewish artsy-nerdy but sassy bookworm, the likely question is, who’ll score first? First encounters are somewhat of a pet peeve of mine. I really appreciate when an author gives me one worth high fiving and this was definitely one of those! There’s real dimension to both Ryan Carter and Rachael Hamilton which gives this book both fun and serious encounters. You won’t find instantaneous love, although there’s lots of dynamic chemistry, between these two opposites. But when the love bug finally bites, it’s worth the wait.
This game doesn’t go into overtime. Nope, just a field goal for extra points because there’s no cliffhanger in sight!
Game on! This “New Adult” kick has taken hold of me and won’t let go. Combined with a sports-theme and I’m a goner. Pass interferences, off side calls, roughing the quarterback, and few fumbles along the way keep this one alive and entertaining. It scored with me.
When mid-western Irish-Catholic NFL quarterback and playboy spares with New England Jewish artsy-nerdy but sassy bookworm, the likely question is, who’ll score first? First encounters are somewhat of a pet peeve of mine. I really appreciate when an author gives me one worth high fiving and this was definitely one of those! There’s real dimension to both Ryan Carter and Rachael Hamilton which gives this book both fun and serious encounters. You won’t find instantaneous love, although there’s lots of dynamic chemistry, between these two opposites. But when the love bug finally bites, it’s worth the wait.
This game doesn’t go into overtime. Nope, just a field goal for extra points because there’s no cliffhanger in sight!
August 10, 2015
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I thought it was going to be your typical contemporary romance formula. Rachael Hamilton accidentally gatecrashes a pro-athlete party, she ends up face-to-face with Ryan Carter, the NFL’s most beloved quarterback. This book has a actual plot. It never drags.
This is an incredible read, it was so hard to put down, there’s just this certain humor that will keep you on the hook. The recurring characters are delightful to read. There’s a great dynamic relationship not only between Rachel and Ryan but within all of the characters. Those simple little things consistently drawn me in.
Rush Me is definitely one of my favorite Contemporary Romances that I’ve ever read.
This is an incredible read, it was so hard to put down, there’s just this certain humor that will keep you on the hook. The recurring characters are delightful to read. There’s a great dynamic relationship not only between Rachel and Ryan but within all of the characters. Those simple little things consistently drawn me in.
Rush Me is definitely one of my favorite Contemporary Romances that I’ve ever read.
August 26, 2016
Ryan was more than a little but underdeveloped, but overall I really enjoyed this.
April 23, 2019
Did I really buy and first read this book 6(!) freaking years ago?
Excuse me while I go cry in a corner because time is flying so damn fast.
I love sports romances and Rush me is one of the better ones.
I really liked the H, Ryan. The h got a bit on my nerves in the end. She acted like a stuck bitch. Luckily she came to her senses pretty quickly, so I‘m not too hung up about it.
Excuse me while I go cry in a corner because time is flying so damn fast.
I love sports romances and Rush me is one of the better ones.
I really liked the H, Ryan. The h got a bit on my nerves in the end. She acted like a stuck bitch. Luckily she came to her senses pretty quickly, so I‘m not too hung up about it.
September 7, 2016
I've never been soo befuzzled by an author before.
Let's see Rush Me is the typical contemporary romance novel, all chick lit and girl power with a pretty staid and boring plot. There were characteristics of the story that have been used over and over and over again and those I found annoying.
Like the hero had never been in love before. He was a man whore who dated continously but never loved anyone. The heroine was the one to change his mind of course. That's stupid. What 26 year old man has never found SOMEONE that he liked more than a little?
Anyway, the misunderstandings and giant miscommunications got old unbelievably fast. More so than normal. In fact, during one childish and immature fight the heroine had the nerve to claim she was "an adult" and didn't have to put up with this.
Um...
Someone else said it first in a review, that the first 50 percent they gushed over and the last fifty they wanted to pull their hair out. I understand what they mean.
HOWEVER
Even with those things that bothered me, I still have to give it 4 stars. I'm not sure if I was just in the mood for something slightly cheesy, VERY DRAMATIC, and angsty but I really just loved it.
It was baffling to me that the author could write such snappy, SMART dialogue and have the ability to make me laugh out loud and then write such horrible, childish fight scenes. It made the characters look like idiots, and I really liked both the leads for the most part.
Rachael was very different, sort of socially awkward and very aware of that. But she was smart, and funny, very quick on her feet and clever. But then her responses sometimes, they would be just out of left field. Her anger would be so quick and then short lived and out of character. And for someone who was so smart she sure left Ryan hanging a number of times with a misunderstanding that could easily have been cleared up.
I really liked Ryan too, very nice guy.
And I loved the angst at the beginning, the total dislike for each other. It was such a good build, until it wasn't anymore and I just wanted them to get together and quit fighting about dumb shit. The later fights seemed like major stretches in the story, as if the author had to invent them to keep the suspension built.
I guess that's what confused me the most. The author has this real talent for cute conversation, not dumb but genuine and humorous, even going so far as to use the phrases that people 26 year olds use. And then she turns around and has the couple have a blow up fight about absolutely nothing.
I still really liked the book as a whole and I will definitely keep an eye out for anything else she's written because I have a feeling she'll get these kinks worked out and be the bomb.com.
Let's see Rush Me is the typical contemporary romance novel, all chick lit and girl power with a pretty staid and boring plot. There were characteristics of the story that have been used over and over and over again and those I found annoying.
Like the hero had never been in love before. He was a man whore who dated continously but never loved anyone. The heroine was the one to change his mind of course. That's stupid. What 26 year old man has never found SOMEONE that he liked more than a little?
Anyway, the misunderstandings and giant miscommunications got old unbelievably fast. More so than normal. In fact, during one childish and immature fight the heroine had the nerve to claim she was "an adult" and didn't have to put up with this.
Um...
Someone else said it first in a review, that the first 50 percent they gushed over and the last fifty they wanted to pull their hair out. I understand what they mean.
HOWEVER
Even with those things that bothered me, I still have to give it 4 stars. I'm not sure if I was just in the mood for something slightly cheesy, VERY DRAMATIC, and angsty but I really just loved it.
It was baffling to me that the author could write such snappy, SMART dialogue and have the ability to make me laugh out loud and then write such horrible, childish fight scenes. It made the characters look like idiots, and I really liked both the leads for the most part.
Rachael was very different, sort of socially awkward and very aware of that. But she was smart, and funny, very quick on her feet and clever. But then her responses sometimes, they would be just out of left field. Her anger would be so quick and then short lived and out of character. And for someone who was so smart she sure left Ryan hanging a number of times with a misunderstanding that could easily have been cleared up.
I really liked Ryan too, very nice guy.
And I loved the angst at the beginning, the total dislike for each other. It was such a good build, until it wasn't anymore and I just wanted them to get together and quit fighting about dumb shit. The later fights seemed like major stretches in the story, as if the author had to invent them to keep the suspension built.
I guess that's what confused me the most. The author has this real talent for cute conversation, not dumb but genuine and humorous, even going so far as to use the phrases that people 26 year olds use. And then she turns around and has the couple have a blow up fight about absolutely nothing.
I still really liked the book as a whole and I will definitely keep an eye out for anything else she's written because I have a feeling she'll get these kinks worked out and be the bomb.com.
March 23, 2013
I loved how the story started. Rachael Hamilton accidentally walks into the wrong party. As she tries to find her way out, she walks into a room where Ryan Carter is “busy” with a girl. Ryan Carter is a famous NFL player while Rachel spends her time at home with a book. Yet this two different people can't help their strong attraction for one another. I love these stories, but this one no matter how much I tried, I could not get myself to like the heroine.
I liked Rachael in the beginning. How could you not love a girl who loves to stay home and watch a disasters movie with Ben & Jerry’s???
Early I in the story, I was able to overlook some of Rachael’s obnoxious comments to Ryan about being a “dumb jock” even though she only assumed he was dumb because he played football, but then it got old.
Every time Ryan did anything, I was nervous that Rachael was going to “scold” him. I don’t like when a main character in the story continues to criticize the person who she supposedly has feelings for. By the middle of the book, I was yelling at her to leave him alone. I was rooting for him to just leave her. There was a period when Rachael actually laughed and wasn’t so critical of everything and I thought finally, Rachael was going to stop being so petty. Well that lasted for about 2 minutes. She went right back to being to be downright hurtful self.
UGH!!
I like when the heroines are smart. But being smart does not mean you have to be critical. I respected Ryan when he called Rachael on her constant criticism. The poor guy was afraid to bring her to meet his family for the fear that she would make fun of the farm and his family’s way of life.
I loved that we got to know the characters’ back stories early on. I don’t like when they are left to the last 10% of the book.
Did I skim? No.
Did I feel connected to the characters? Well I felt Ryan’s frustration with Rachel. I really liked Ryan. No matter how much I tried I could not connect with Rachael.
Pace of the story? Very good.
Positives: The author has a great writing style. If Rachael wasn’t so hurtful to Ryan all the time, my rating would have been higher.
Negatives: Rachael.
Do I recommend? I think the author has a lot of potential. I will definitely be reading more of her books. I would have enjoyed the book more if it wasn’t for the heroine’s constant negative attitude.
Book/Format Read: A copy of the book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
I liked Rachael in the beginning. How could you not love a girl who loves to stay home and watch a disasters movie with Ben & Jerry’s???
Early I in the story, I was able to overlook some of Rachael’s obnoxious comments to Ryan about being a “dumb jock” even though she only assumed he was dumb because he played football, but then it got old.
Every time Ryan did anything, I was nervous that Rachael was going to “scold” him. I don’t like when a main character in the story continues to criticize the person who she supposedly has feelings for. By the middle of the book, I was yelling at her to leave him alone. I was rooting for him to just leave her. There was a period when Rachael actually laughed and wasn’t so critical of everything and I thought finally, Rachael was going to stop being so petty. Well that lasted for about 2 minutes. She went right back to being to be downright hurtful self.
UGH!!
I like when the heroines are smart. But being smart does not mean you have to be critical. I respected Ryan when he called Rachael on her constant criticism. The poor guy was afraid to bring her to meet his family for the fear that she would make fun of the farm and his family’s way of life.
I loved that we got to know the characters’ back stories early on. I don’t like when they are left to the last 10% of the book.
Did I skim? No.
Did I feel connected to the characters? Well I felt Ryan’s frustration with Rachel. I really liked Ryan. No matter how much I tried I could not connect with Rachael.
Pace of the story? Very good.
Positives: The author has a great writing style. If Rachael wasn’t so hurtful to Ryan all the time, my rating would have been higher.
Negatives: Rachael.
Do I recommend? I think the author has a lot of potential. I will definitely be reading more of her books. I would have enjoyed the book more if it wasn’t for the heroine’s constant negative attitude.
Book/Format Read: A copy of the book was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
May 4, 2013
10 GLORIOUS STARS!
Definitely one of my top reads of 2013.
Longer review to come, I want to reread some bits. ;-)
Definitely one of my top reads of 2013.
Longer review to come, I want to reread some bits. ;-)
November 13, 2016
Awww I liked this book. It started so different to what I have read before but it worked out good. The characters were great the main ones and the others. Xxx
July 24, 2017
I ploughed right through this and really enjoyed it, maybe not as much as the second in the series, but it was good - definitely worth the read for me! 3.5 stars
June 1, 2013
This was like a fluffy rom-com movie.
It made me happy sigh and have a stupid grin when I finished
LONG STORY SHORT
Rachel wanders into the wrong party.
Turning her into a gate crasher at the New York Leopards after party.
She also meets Ryan Carter.
The most infuriating, frustrating, stubborn, asshole with the face and body of a god.
They do not get along right from the start, constantly bickering and arguing.
She thinks he is a man-whore jock.
He thinks she is prudish snob.
She however falls into easy friendship with Ryan’s teammates, especially the younger Abe who is also Jewish like her. They start having Shabbat dinners on Fridays as a group.
Which leads to more time being spent together not only with Mike, Abe, Keith and Malcolm but also with Ryan.
As if we didn’t see it coming Ryan and Rach end up hooking up.
Then she screws up. BIG TIME (I wanted throw my kindle… silly bitch)
But they make up…
Things are great again for while
Then they have a massive fight..
Break up
Massive declaration of love
Happy Ever After
And I loved every minute of it!
Sometimes after reading so much SMUT, Erotica, you just need a book that is going to be sappy and fluffy and just makes you happy.
This was exactly what I needed.
Some detailed HAWT sex scenes but majority just fade to black.
Great detail about New York tourist sites and NFL .. As an Australian we have Australian Rules Football and Rugby League/Union so I have NO IDEA about NFL. I mean yeah I’ve seen ANY GIVEN SUNDAY, REMEMBER THE TITANS, FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS and all those NFL movies. But I REALLLLY don’t know what’s going on half the time. but I found I was able to follow along with the storylines easy enough, I’m not sure if it’s due to Rachel not knowing and the author going into great detail, or I have just read enough to know a bit about it now.
Either way.. I REALLY WANT TO WATCH A LIVE GAME!!
Anyhoo.. Sorry about rant..
Bottom line…
I really liked this and will def be reading whatever the author has done/is doing
ARC was provided by Carina Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
It made me happy sigh and have a stupid grin when I finished
LONG STORY SHORT
Rachel wanders into the wrong party.
Turning her into a gate crasher at the New York Leopards after party.
She also meets Ryan Carter.
The most infuriating, frustrating, stubborn, asshole with the face and body of a god.
They do not get along right from the start, constantly bickering and arguing.
She thinks he is a man-whore jock.
He thinks she is prudish snob.
She however falls into easy friendship with Ryan’s teammates, especially the younger Abe who is also Jewish like her. They start having Shabbat dinners on Fridays as a group.
Which leads to more time being spent together not only with Mike, Abe, Keith and Malcolm but also with Ryan.
As if we didn’t see it coming Ryan and Rach end up hooking up.
Then she screws up. BIG TIME (I wanted throw my kindle… silly bitch)
But they make up…
Things are great again for while
Then they have a massive fight..
Break up
Massive declaration of love
Happy Ever After
And I loved every minute of it!
Sometimes after reading so much SMUT, Erotica, you just need a book that is going to be sappy and fluffy and just makes you happy.
This was exactly what I needed.
Some detailed HAWT sex scenes but majority just fade to black.
Great detail about New York tourist sites and NFL .. As an Australian we have Australian Rules Football and Rugby League/Union so I have NO IDEA about NFL. I mean yeah I’ve seen ANY GIVEN SUNDAY, REMEMBER THE TITANS, FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS and all those NFL movies. But I REALLLLY don’t know what’s going on half the time. but I found I was able to follow along with the storylines easy enough, I’m not sure if it’s due to Rachel not knowing and the author going into great detail, or I have just read enough to know a bit about it now.
Either way.. I REALLY WANT TO WATCH A LIVE GAME!!
Anyhoo.. Sorry about rant..
Bottom line…
I really liked this and will def be reading whatever the author has done/is doing
ARC was provided by Carina Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
July 4, 2013
3.5 Stars
I thought this book was sweet and charming with a touch of quirk.
Rachael is a typical book nerd who has no patience for things like sports.
Ryan happens to be a misunderstood NFL quarterback.
With a chance meeting their worlds collide. With this collision judgements are made and feelings are hurt but fate can be a real bitch sometimes and these two keep meeting and are forced to try to be friends.
Friendship is hard when assumptions are made but once the truth starts to get in walls start to come down and they start to fall for one another.
The more they fall the more their own quirks start to come out. These quirks are what made this relationship work for me. Rachael's bookworm quirks and Ryan's charms make the perfect combination.
Well....until their assumptions come back and kick them in the ass and add that they are both the two most stubborn two people in the world. This makes a tough road back to one another.
I thought this story was super sweet and I enjoyed the connection of Rachael and Ryan and all the other characters.
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I thought this book was sweet and charming with a touch of quirk.
Rachael is a typical book nerd who has no patience for things like sports.
Ryan happens to be a misunderstood NFL quarterback.
With a chance meeting their worlds collide. With this collision judgements are made and feelings are hurt but fate can be a real bitch sometimes and these two keep meeting and are forced to try to be friends.
Friendship is hard when assumptions are made but once the truth starts to get in walls start to come down and they start to fall for one another.
The more they fall the more their own quirks start to come out. These quirks are what made this relationship work for me. Rachael's bookworm quirks and Ryan's charms make the perfect combination.
Well....until their assumptions come back and kick them in the ass and add that they are both the two most stubborn two people in the world. This makes a tough road back to one another.
I thought this story was super sweet and I enjoyed the connection of Rachael and Ryan and all the other characters.
For more Live Read and Breathe:
Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Live Read and Breathe Twitter
For more of my reviews:
Live Read and Breathe
April 8, 2013
RUSH ME is Carina Press’s first foray in New Adult so naturally I had to try it out. I’ve been in the NA mood for awhile now and have been gobbling them up like candy. RUSH ME seemed to fit the kind of books I liked so I gave it a shot.
In this book, we have a hero that is a pro athlete named Ryan Carter. A hot football player? Yes, yes count me in! Our heroine is Rachael Hamilton, a bookish girl who is still trying to figure out how to live her life while also pleasing her family. Ryan and Rachael meet at a party and well, I can’t say that this scene really hit it off for me. Ryan is being serviced by a groupie and for me, that changed how I saw him immediately. Ryan comes off as a little egotistical but Rachael also seemed to cross the line a few times. I just could not really understand her reasoning for some of her actions and words. Sometimes I wanted to stop her from doing/saying things while others I wanted her to DO SOMETHING when she remained inactive. As a result, I just couldn’t get into the romance at all. As individual characters, there were too many things that bothered me for me to even care if they got their HEA in the end.
One upside is that I did enjoy Parr’s writing even though I didn’t enjoy being in Rachael’s head. So I can’t say it worked for me entirely. The New Adult genre has some really great books out there but I am finding it hard to understand what constitutes as NA now. The hero in this book seemed a little older than I would thought would be considered as NA. In the end, this one didn’t work for me and therefore, I can’t recommend.
*ARC provided by Netgalley
March 27, 2013
I loved the beginning of the story. Rachael walks into the wrong party when out with her roommate. She walks in on Ryan Carter being serviced and quickly realizes that she's in over her head and can't seem to get out through the sea of people in the main room. Ryan, thinking she's a groupie, seeks her out and that's were things started to go down hill for me.
I've never read a book where the main character was a such a bitch. I could see her being defensive when Ryan assumes she's at the party to hook up with a famous football star but then she just continued to be rude the entire time. It isn't until about 75% through the book that she started to ease up on Ryan. She insults him at every turn and gets even more prickly when he gets snippy with her for being rude to him. It just really turned me off from the story.
As for Ryan, yes he was egotistical at the beginning. He's used to having women throw themselves at him just so they can say they bagged the NFL superstar. So it's no surprised that he doesn't believe that Rachael accidentally stumbled into the wrong party or that she really forgot her scarf there without an ulterior motive. But, he soon realizes that she's not out for the fame and money, and yet she still continues to be a bitch to him.
It was an entertaining read but if Rachael wasn't so mean the entire time, I probably would have loved this story. I seem to really fall for the Cinderella type stories that involve superstars. Unfortunately, the main character really ruined the story for me.
I've never read a book where the main character was a such a bitch. I could see her being defensive when Ryan assumes she's at the party to hook up with a famous football star but then she just continued to be rude the entire time. It isn't until about 75% through the book that she started to ease up on Ryan. She insults him at every turn and gets even more prickly when he gets snippy with her for being rude to him. It just really turned me off from the story.
As for Ryan, yes he was egotistical at the beginning. He's used to having women throw themselves at him just so they can say they bagged the NFL superstar. So it's no surprised that he doesn't believe that Rachael accidentally stumbled into the wrong party or that she really forgot her scarf there without an ulterior motive. But, he soon realizes that she's not out for the fame and money, and yet she still continues to be a bitch to him.
It was an entertaining read but if Rachael wasn't so mean the entire time, I probably would have loved this story. I seem to really fall for the Cinderella type stories that involve superstars. Unfortunately, the main character really ruined the story for me.
April 22, 2015
I'm on a NA roll and I have to say, this is much better than the average okay NA. It's not, you know, the best book I've ever read, but it was surprisingly good. I related to the FL on many levels, and truly got to admire her. And for a blond jock, the ML was rather attractive.
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