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Green Oak #1
The Long Game
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Romance (2023)A disgraced soccer exec reluctantly enlists the help of a retired soccer star in coaching a children’s team in this smalltown love story in the vein of Ted Lasso and It Happened One Summer —from the New York Times bestselling author of The Spanish Love Deception.
Adalyn Reyes has spent years perfecting her daily routine: wake up at dawn, drive to the Miami Flames FC offices, try her hardest to leave a mark, go home, and repeat.
But her routine is disrupted when a video of her in an altercation with the team’s mascot goes viral. Rather than fire her, the team’s owner—who happens to be her father—sends Adalyn to middle-of-nowhere North Carolina, where she’s tasked with turning around the struggling local soccer team, the Green Warriors, as a way to redeem herself. Her plans crumble upon discovering that the players wear tutus to practice (impractical), keep pet goats (messy), and are terrified of Adalyn (counterproductive), and are nine-year-old kids.
To make things worse, also in town is Cameron Caldani, goalkeeping prodigy whose presence is somewhat of a mystery. Cam is the perfect candidate to help Adalyn, but after one very unfortunate first encounter involving a rooster, Cam’s leg, and Adalyn’s bumper, he’s also set on running her out of town. But banishment is not an option for Adalyn. Not again. Helping this ragtag children’s team is her road to redemption, and she is playing the long game. With or without Cam’s help.
Adalyn Reyes has spent years perfecting her daily routine: wake up at dawn, drive to the Miami Flames FC offices, try her hardest to leave a mark, go home, and repeat.
But her routine is disrupted when a video of her in an altercation with the team’s mascot goes viral. Rather than fire her, the team’s owner—who happens to be her father—sends Adalyn to middle-of-nowhere North Carolina, where she’s tasked with turning around the struggling local soccer team, the Green Warriors, as a way to redeem herself. Her plans crumble upon discovering that the players wear tutus to practice (impractical), keep pet goats (messy), and are terrified of Adalyn (counterproductive), and are nine-year-old kids.
To make things worse, also in town is Cameron Caldani, goalkeeping prodigy whose presence is somewhat of a mystery. Cam is the perfect candidate to help Adalyn, but after one very unfortunate first encounter involving a rooster, Cam’s leg, and Adalyn’s bumper, he’s also set on running her out of town. But banishment is not an option for Adalyn. Not again. Helping this ragtag children’s team is her road to redemption, and she is playing the long game. With or without Cam’s help.
373 pages, Paperback
First published September 5, 2023
About the author
Elena Armas
8 books28.3k followersElena is a Spanish writer, a self confessed hopeless romantic and a proud book hoarder. Now, she's also the author of International bestseller and soon to be adapted to film The Spanish Love Deception; and instant New York Times bestsellers The American Roommate Experiment and The Long Game. Her books are being translated to over 30 languages–which is bananas, if you ask her.
She hopes her stories make your heart skip a beat or two, your palms a little sweaty, and your cheeks flush in that rosy pink that makes other people want to peek at the page you are reading.
She hopes her stories make your heart skip a beat or two, your palms a little sweaty, and your cheeks flush in that rosy pink that makes other people want to peek at the page you are reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 10,611 reviews
September 14, 2023
The Long Game sure seemed long...
I have started to think that Elena Armas sadly is a one hit wonder. I know it is wrong to compare her other books to The Spanish Love Deception but that book generated pure magic, love, chemistry and such an amazing book boyfriend- Aaron Blackford. The American Roommate Experiment and The Long Game are such disappointing and boring reads compared to that. Don't get me wrong, Elena Armas can really write. She does have a lot of potential but living up to TSLD is not easy.
Let's go over the tropes first-
✔️ Dual pov
✔️ Sports romance (football; there's no way am gonna call it soccer. IT IS FOOTBALL)
✔️ Slow burn
✔️ Grumpy x grumpy
✔️ Small town romance
✔️ Forced proximity
✔️ Enemies to lovers
So per the tropes, everything sounds great right? But prepare yourself for a snooze fest.
The book starts super fun and I was really into it up until page 130. Honestly, my first red flag should have been when the fmc claimed "she is not like other girls," which oddly turned out to be true because other girls are nice, fun and kind but here, she was truly a spoiled self conceited brat with no character development.
As the story progresses, I found myself to be so extremely bored. The plot had nothing to offer or add on to the romance. My biggest issue was the romance itself- as you all know it is an enemies to lovers romance but the reason for their enmity was simply dumb. They continued to be enemies for more than half of the book and the sudden romancing each other came out of nowhere. They were lusting for each other sure but without any emotions. It was all eye candy stuff. They had NO chemistry. The progression of enemies to lovers was poorly executed and was not smooth at all. There was no build up. The slow burn was equally mediocre. I couldn't even bother with the spice, it bored me.
Coming to the characters- Both Cameron and Adalyn are forgettable. In fact they are so forgettable that I have already forgotten their last names as I type this review.
Adalyn- She thinks she deserves the world but has done nothing to actually deserve it. Yeah am sorry some shit happened to you but grow up ffs. She is highly unlikable. She is self conceited, bratty and truly spoiled. There should have been a character development for her but there wasn't. Also, it annoyed me a lot when she kept addressing Cameron by his full name in each and every damn sentence!!
Cameron- Man, talk about a disappointing fictional man. The man has done nothing to woo her except shown her his abs. The overuse of the word "darling" had zero effect on me. Was it supposed to impress me? Did the exact opposite. He was calling her "darling" in their enemy phase and switched to "love" in the lovers phase. Both the terms are so endearing but he made it sound so icky. Am sorry!! But he ain't worth it. All I wanted to do was punch him 😭😭 The only good thing about him was he was a cat dad.
There's not much good in it tbh. Just a few occasional laughs and smiles but the rest is pure boredom. If you do read it, please do so with low expectations. I feel like I wasted my money on this tbh. Yep, this is a generous rating.
~•~•~
After a long wait am finally getting to The Long Game... Yeah I know that one was bad 😆🙈 But am manifesting this to be as good as The Spanish Love Deception. Here we go🤞
I have started to think that Elena Armas sadly is a one hit wonder. I know it is wrong to compare her other books to The Spanish Love Deception but that book generated pure magic, love, chemistry and such an amazing book boyfriend- Aaron Blackford. The American Roommate Experiment and The Long Game are such disappointing and boring reads compared to that. Don't get me wrong, Elena Armas can really write. She does have a lot of potential but living up to TSLD is not easy.
Let's go over the tropes first-
✔️ Dual pov
✔️ Sports romance (football; there's no way am gonna call it soccer. IT IS FOOTBALL)
✔️ Slow burn
✔️ Grumpy x grumpy
✔️ Small town romance
✔️ Forced proximity
✔️ Enemies to lovers
So per the tropes, everything sounds great right? But prepare yourself for a snooze fest.
The book starts super fun and I was really into it up until page 130. Honestly, my first red flag should have been when the fmc claimed "she is not like other girls," which oddly turned out to be true because other girls are nice, fun and kind but here, she was truly a spoiled self conceited brat with no character development.
As the story progresses, I found myself to be so extremely bored. The plot had nothing to offer or add on to the romance. My biggest issue was the romance itself- as you all know it is an enemies to lovers romance but the reason for their enmity was simply dumb. They continued to be enemies for more than half of the book and the sudden romancing each other came out of nowhere. They were lusting for each other sure but without any emotions. It was all eye candy stuff. They had NO chemistry. The progression of enemies to lovers was poorly executed and was not smooth at all. There was no build up. The slow burn was equally mediocre. I couldn't even bother with the spice, it bored me.
Coming to the characters- Both Cameron and Adalyn are forgettable. In fact they are so forgettable that I have already forgotten their last names as I type this review.
Adalyn- She thinks she deserves the world but has done nothing to actually deserve it. Yeah am sorry some shit happened to you but grow up ffs. She is highly unlikable. She is self conceited, bratty and truly spoiled. There should have been a character development for her but there wasn't. Also, it annoyed me a lot when she kept addressing Cameron by his full name in each and every damn sentence!!
Cameron- Man, talk about a disappointing fictional man. The man has done nothing to woo her except shown her his abs. The overuse of the word "darling" had zero effect on me. Was it supposed to impress me? Did the exact opposite. He was calling her "darling" in their enemy phase and switched to "love" in the lovers phase. Both the terms are so endearing but he made it sound so icky. Am sorry!! But he ain't worth it. All I wanted to do was punch him 😭😭 The only good thing about him was he was a cat dad.
There's not much good in it tbh. Just a few occasional laughs and smiles but the rest is pure boredom. If you do read it, please do so with low expectations. I feel like I wasted my money on this tbh. Yep, this is a generous rating.
~•~•~
After a long wait am finally getting to The Long Game... Yeah I know that one was bad 😆🙈 But am manifesting this to be as good as The Spanish Love Deception. Here we go🤞
September 6, 2023
this man did not have the personality of someone with a thigh tattoo
Want to read
May 23, 2023Adalyn and Cameron will have a Barnes & Noble exclusive edition with bonus content in Cameron's pov (yes, it's hörny, and yes it's unhinged boy obsessed stuff). You can pre-order the exclusive edition here
All preorders links here :)
THE LONG GAME (Sept 5) is a small-town, SLOWBURN (!!!!) romance with a dash of soccer and a lot of mutual disliking that slowly but heavily turns into highkey pining–and it does *not* belong to the spanish love deception universe.
TW (with mild spoilers) here!
All preorders links here :)
THE LONG GAME (Sept 5) is a small-town, SLOWBURN (!!!!) romance with a dash of soccer and a lot of mutual disliking that slowly but heavily turns into highkey pining–and it does *not* belong to the spanish love deception universe.
TW (with mild spoilers) here!
November 23, 2023
i need cameron caldani to ultraviolence me
3.5 ⭐️
3.5 ⭐️
August 10, 2024
May I have your attention, please? Because guess what? My dreams have finally come true! Elena Armas has just released another breathtaking romance novel, and hold on tight because it's absolutely incredible! The characters she has created will make you swoon, burst into fits of laughter, hyperventilate, and send your temperature soaring! She combines my favorite trope, enemies-to-lovers, with the exhilarating world of soccer, giving off major "Bend it Like Beckham" and "Ted Lasso" vibes. And let me tell you, she has truly outdone herself with a grumpy hero as charming as a younger Beckham (with Roy Kent vibes) and a boss lady heroine who dons the facade of an ice queen while secretly yearning for kindness within, all while gracefully strutting around in intimidating stilettos.
Let me also mention that this is, by far, my favorite book by the author. Not only for the reasons I mentioned above, but because Cameron and Adalyn's fiery love story set in a small town feels incredibly genuine, engaging, swoon-worthy, and heartwarming.
Adalyn, after facing a major embarrassment that goes viral, finds herself exiled to a tiny town in the middle of nowhere, North Carolina, following a nerve-wracking breakdown. Leaving behind her demanding job at the Miami Flames FC, she takes on the role of manager for the Green Oak Warriors Young Club, a soccer team of little girls (one of whom insists on wearing a tutu instead of a jersey). Her neighbor and coach of the team, as well as her biggest pain in the backside, is the ex-British legendary goalkeeper, Cameron Caldani (correction: he's also half Italian, as evident from his last name and the correlation of his charm and extra hotness!).
Their initial disastrous encounter quickly turns into hate at first sight, fueling their fiery banter. Both Adalyn and Cameron carry their own demons, insecurities, and past traumas. Adalyn pushes herself to the limit to turn her team's management into a success story, hoping to redeem herself in the eyes of the media and earn her place back at her father's club. She even goes as far as convincing her biggest nemesis to work with her, hoping to win the approval of the parents of her young players. However, what she doesn't anticipate is the undeniable attraction she starts to feel for the man who despises her to the core and is just waiting for her to pack her bags and leave. Little does she know that Cameron Caldani is a warrior who would slay dragons just to be with her, hidden beneath his grumpy exterior! Will they be able to break down their barriers and open up to each other, risking the shattering of their own hearts?
Words cannot express how much I adored this book and how badly I want to adopt the incredible supporting characters, including Brandy, the blind and socially anxious goat, and San Sebastián, the rooster with nine lives. And let's not forget the two possessive cats, Willow and Pierogi. However, my absolute favorite supporting character award goes to little Maria, with her brilliant mind and the hilarious nicknames she comes up with for Cameron. She's an absolute cutie and so incredibly likable.
In conclusion, dear readers, do not miss out on this perfect reading experience! Elena Armas has crafted a story that will sweep you off your feet, make you laugh, and leave you yearning for more. With memorable characters, a captivating small-town setting, and a love story that will tug at your heartstrings, this book is an absolute gem.
And to the author, Elena Armas, thank you for sharing your incredible talent with the world. Your words have the power to transport us to enchanting places and touch our hearts in the most profound ways. I eagerly await your future works and can't wait to see what captivating stories you'll weave next.
Note: I have a strong feeling that there's a spin-off book in the works for Matthew and Josie! I already adore both of these characters and cannot wait to read their sequel in the near future!
A big thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this AMAZING BOOK in exchange for my honest opinions. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to dive into this literary masterpiece.
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Let me also mention that this is, by far, my favorite book by the author. Not only for the reasons I mentioned above, but because Cameron and Adalyn's fiery love story set in a small town feels incredibly genuine, engaging, swoon-worthy, and heartwarming.
Adalyn, after facing a major embarrassment that goes viral, finds herself exiled to a tiny town in the middle of nowhere, North Carolina, following a nerve-wracking breakdown. Leaving behind her demanding job at the Miami Flames FC, she takes on the role of manager for the Green Oak Warriors Young Club, a soccer team of little girls (one of whom insists on wearing a tutu instead of a jersey). Her neighbor and coach of the team, as well as her biggest pain in the backside, is the ex-British legendary goalkeeper, Cameron Caldani (correction: he's also half Italian, as evident from his last name and the correlation of his charm and extra hotness!).
Their initial disastrous encounter quickly turns into hate at first sight, fueling their fiery banter. Both Adalyn and Cameron carry their own demons, insecurities, and past traumas. Adalyn pushes herself to the limit to turn her team's management into a success story, hoping to redeem herself in the eyes of the media and earn her place back at her father's club. She even goes as far as convincing her biggest nemesis to work with her, hoping to win the approval of the parents of her young players. However, what she doesn't anticipate is the undeniable attraction she starts to feel for the man who despises her to the core and is just waiting for her to pack her bags and leave. Little does she know that Cameron Caldani is a warrior who would slay dragons just to be with her, hidden beneath his grumpy exterior! Will they be able to break down their barriers and open up to each other, risking the shattering of their own hearts?
Words cannot express how much I adored this book and how badly I want to adopt the incredible supporting characters, including Brandy, the blind and socially anxious goat, and San Sebastián, the rooster with nine lives. And let's not forget the two possessive cats, Willow and Pierogi. However, my absolute favorite supporting character award goes to little Maria, with her brilliant mind and the hilarious nicknames she comes up with for Cameron. She's an absolute cutie and so incredibly likable.
In conclusion, dear readers, do not miss out on this perfect reading experience! Elena Armas has crafted a story that will sweep you off your feet, make you laugh, and leave you yearning for more. With memorable characters, a captivating small-town setting, and a love story that will tug at your heartstrings, this book is an absolute gem.
And to the author, Elena Armas, thank you for sharing your incredible talent with the world. Your words have the power to transport us to enchanting places and touch our hearts in the most profound ways. I eagerly await your future works and can't wait to see what captivating stories you'll weave next.
Note: I have a strong feeling that there's a spin-off book in the works for Matthew and Josie! I already adore both of these characters and cannot wait to read their sequel in the near future!
A big thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this AMAZING BOOK in exchange for my honest opinions. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to dive into this literary masterpiece.
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September 11, 2023
2.75 stars
(rounded down)
overall, it was a decent read. the writing was nice and flawless, despite some cringy dialogs. however in contrast, the plot line felt dull with a poorly exploited characters' depth.
the fmc's life crisis was the main focus of the plot, which was appreciated as it added some nuances to her character, but in counterbalance it shadowed the mmc’s character and he ended being just plain bland.
I found the bond between the protagonists to be blurry after reading the book for several days, and I cannot even remember the exact moment when their relationship shifted from enemies to heartfelt declarations.
the book was intended to be a slowburn romance, but that aspect was also neglected. several scenes were added to enhance the relationship, such as a small town barbecue and those kind of gatherings, but they were not beneficial to the storyline or the development of the relationship. it was apparent that they were cut mid-action. therefore, not well explored and exploited.
i would have enjoyed some insight on the little girls trainings but despite not having more details about their development skills on the field, I loved the team and especially María🥺 hope her father will get his own book!
~•~•~
here we gooo
(rounded down)
❛❛ You are all I can see,” he told me, his words falling right on my lips. “Even when I close my eyes, you’re all I see. ❜❜
overall, it was a decent read. the writing was nice and flawless, despite some cringy dialogs. however in contrast, the plot line felt dull with a poorly exploited characters' depth.
the fmc's life crisis was the main focus of the plot, which was appreciated as it added some nuances to her character, but in counterbalance it shadowed the mmc’s character and he ended being just plain bland.
I found the bond between the protagonists to be blurry after reading the book for several days, and I cannot even remember the exact moment when their relationship shifted from enemies to heartfelt declarations.
the book was intended to be a slowburn romance, but that aspect was also neglected. several scenes were added to enhance the relationship, such as a small town barbecue and those kind of gatherings, but they were not beneficial to the storyline or the development of the relationship. it was apparent that they were cut mid-action. therefore, not well explored and exploited.
i would have enjoyed some insight on the little girls trainings but despite not having more details about their development skills on the field, I loved the team and especially María🥺 hope her father will get his own book!
~•~•~
here we gooo
September 1, 2024
This book gave me third degree (slow) burns. Best Elena Armas book, and I couldn't care less about soccer. Thanks so much to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. OKAY Elena Armas!!! Officially an auto-buy author. I've read her other two books, The Spanish Love Deception (5 stars) and The American Roommate Experiment (4 stars). Loved them both. HOWEVER, this book is no doubt my new favorite and I'm now placing it at the number one Elena Armas spot on my bookshelf. To absolutely no one's surprise, EA remains the reigning QUEEN of slow burn writing and The Long Game is slow burn perfection.
I wasn't sure what to expect going into it--sort of a sports romance? Cameron Caldani (*insert all the fire emojis*) is a famous retired pro goalkeeper living the small town quiet life in woodsy North Carolina, and Adalyn Reyes is the privileged daughter of a soccer club owner who is sent to said small town to work with him to coach a U10 girls soccer team. They live in neighboring cottages (hello forced proximity) in a wooded area of town (hello risk of wildlife encounters). Cue all the typical, adorable small town vibes--eccentric townspeople, festivals galore, everyone-knows-everyone, general shenanigans because Adalyn isn't used to the rural lifestyle a la Piper Bellinger/Naomi Witt. For being Elena Armas's first book in this style, she totally knocks it out of the park. I loved this more than so many other small town romances I've read. Literally felt like I was living in this little town and rooting for the girls' team and going to the local parties.
Things this book makes sexy that otherwise would (probably) not be: dirty farm animals. yoga with said farm animals. a sprained ankle. a pottery class. a blind goat. sno-cones. a bug infested cottage. meditation. a home beer brewing machine. crooked fingers. The list goes on. Cameron Caldani >>> Aaron Blackford and Lucas Martin. And let me tell you, I looooved Aaron Blackford. But I love Cameron Caldani more. He's tall, dark haired, green eyed, half Italian/half English with an English accent (think "love" and "darling" nicknames), covered in tattoos, a literal soccer star, super broody and at first judgmental of Adalyn because she struggles to do small town life but slowly falls in love and just knows she is THE one. Adalyn puts on a great facade of being stoic and cold but really is this melting puddle of insecurity and self-doubt that I felt to my core, and Cameron is there for it. He's there for her. He wants to help her slay her dragons but knows she's capable of doing it with or without him. Its stupidly romantic and spicy and tricks you into thinking its realistic, which is just the best type of writing.
And I cannot forget the girls soccer team!!! Maria Vasquez, the little nine-year-old with the mind of a full grown adult! Chelsea! Juniper! The tutu! The nicknames for Coach Cameron! The way Cameron interacts with these little girls (strong daddy vibes that I didn't realize I was missing in a book)! Everything about this is just one giant pile of sweetness. Anyways, I am now experiencing a book hangover and need to go tell everyone to read this when it comes out. 5 whole incredible sexy spicy fun endearing happy stars!!!
I wasn't sure what to expect going into it--sort of a sports romance? Cameron Caldani (*insert all the fire emojis*) is a famous retired pro goalkeeper living the small town quiet life in woodsy North Carolina, and Adalyn Reyes is the privileged daughter of a soccer club owner who is sent to said small town to work with him to coach a U10 girls soccer team. They live in neighboring cottages (hello forced proximity) in a wooded area of town (hello risk of wildlife encounters). Cue all the typical, adorable small town vibes--eccentric townspeople, festivals galore, everyone-knows-everyone, general shenanigans because Adalyn isn't used to the rural lifestyle a la Piper Bellinger/Naomi Witt. For being Elena Armas's first book in this style, she totally knocks it out of the park. I loved this more than so many other small town romances I've read. Literally felt like I was living in this little town and rooting for the girls' team and going to the local parties.
Things this book makes sexy that otherwise would (probably) not be: dirty farm animals. yoga with said farm animals. a sprained ankle. a pottery class. a blind goat. sno-cones. a bug infested cottage. meditation. a home beer brewing machine. crooked fingers. The list goes on. Cameron Caldani >>> Aaron Blackford and Lucas Martin. And let me tell you, I looooved Aaron Blackford. But I love Cameron Caldani more. He's tall, dark haired, green eyed, half Italian/half English with an English accent (think "love" and "darling" nicknames), covered in tattoos, a literal soccer star, super broody and at first judgmental of Adalyn because she struggles to do small town life but slowly falls in love and just knows she is THE one. Adalyn puts on a great facade of being stoic and cold but really is this melting puddle of insecurity and self-doubt that I felt to my core, and Cameron is there for it. He's there for her. He wants to help her slay her dragons but knows she's capable of doing it with or without him. Its stupidly romantic and spicy and tricks you into thinking its realistic, which is just the best type of writing.
And I cannot forget the girls soccer team!!! Maria Vasquez, the little nine-year-old with the mind of a full grown adult! Chelsea! Juniper! The tutu! The nicknames for Coach Cameron! The way Cameron interacts with these little girls (strong daddy vibes that I didn't realize I was missing in a book)! Everything about this is just one giant pile of sweetness. Anyways, I am now experiencing a book hangover and need to go tell everyone to read this when it comes out. 5 whole incredible sexy spicy fun endearing happy stars!!!
October 7, 2023
Writing: normal | Plot: cute premise, iffy execution | Ending: ight
SYNOPSIS
Nepo baby Soccer exec Adalyn Reyes is exiled to buttfuck nowhere North Carolina after her menty b goes viral. In order to be reinstated back in Miami, she must turn around a struggling youth soccer club... but will the coach, who just happens to be super hawt former professional player, throw a wrench in her plans?
MY OPINION
In a weird way I liked this, but I do believe there should be a Senate hearing on those spicy scenes. Respectfully, it should be illegal to dry hump when you're in your 30s. Especially when you're in a forest. And wasn't it like November???? Don't pretend she "swayed" herself to an orgasm through 4 layers of clothing. Nah. Also I love my husband but if he tried to dry hump me in a forest I would scream STRANGER DANGER at the top of my lungs. The whole ordeal is just embarrassing and should be reported to the authorities.
And that office scene? I need a flow chart to understand what was happening there. I've reread it and I STILL don't get exactly what he was doing to her? Also, if my mom told me I really needed to get laid I would throw myself out the closest window.
Anyways. I do think this had potential to be cute. Some of it was legit funny; esp. the kids. But the storytelling structure was odd and clunky. Cam was unnecessarily rude to her and his initial inner monologue about Adalyn made me think of a caveman beating his chest going ME STRONG. WOMAN WEAK. ME HAVE BIG BRAIN. WOMAN NO SMART. Also what was his vendetta against high heels? Did his mom walk out of his life in a pair of Loubs? And after all their uncalled for beef, suddenly they were holding hands in big ole publique????? From hate to dry humping... what a romantic tale. Unfortunately, I wasn't the biggest fan of Adalyn either, but I (sadly) could relate to still wanting to impress her POS sperm donor aka father.
My other issue was Elena Armas leaned too heavily on her fave phrases: "her lips bobbed" (wtf??? bobbing means up and down... I think she meant lips parted?) "her/his eyelashes fluttered closed" (I tried this IRL and Pierre asked me if I was feeling okay) "he made a strangled sound" (hope you know how to do the heimlich)
This is the first romance I read with a twisty twist and I have only have two words: keep it. It did nothing for the story but edge it closer to soap opera territory. Regardless, I still bought The Spanish Love Deception because apparently that's her best one and I want to give her another shot. As long as there's no dry humping, I'll be okay.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: funny at times, bare bones of the plot was solid (execution was suss)
Cons: reading a spicy scene about dry humping in a forest felt like a sex crime, Cam and Adalyn's relationship went inexplicably 0-100, didn't need that twisty twist at the end, storytelling was clunky, repetitive odd turn of phrases
SYNOPSIS
MY OPINION
In a weird way I liked this, but I do believe there should be a Senate hearing on those spicy scenes. Respectfully, it should be illegal to dry hump when you're in your 30s. Especially when you're in a forest. And wasn't it like November???? Don't pretend she "swayed" herself to an orgasm through 4 layers of clothing. Nah. Also I love my husband but if he tried to dry hump me in a forest I would scream STRANGER DANGER at the top of my lungs. The whole ordeal is just embarrassing and should be reported to the authorities.
And that office scene? I need a flow chart to understand what was happening there. I've reread it and I STILL don't get exactly what he was doing to her? Also, if my mom told me I really needed to get laid I would throw myself out the closest window.
Anyways. I do think this had potential to be cute. Some of it was legit funny; esp. the kids. But the storytelling structure was odd and clunky. Cam was unnecessarily rude to her and his initial inner monologue about Adalyn made me think of a caveman beating his chest going ME STRONG. WOMAN WEAK. ME HAVE BIG BRAIN. WOMAN NO SMART. Also what was his vendetta against high heels? Did his mom walk out of his life in a pair of Loubs? And after all their uncalled for beef, suddenly they were holding hands in big ole publique????? From hate to dry humping... what a romantic tale. Unfortunately, I wasn't the biggest fan of Adalyn either, but I (sadly) could relate to still wanting to impress her POS sperm donor aka father.
My other issue was Elena Armas leaned too heavily on her fave phrases: "her lips bobbed" (wtf??? bobbing means up and down... I think she meant lips parted?) "her/his eyelashes fluttered closed" (I tried this IRL and Pierre asked me if I was feeling okay) "he made a strangled sound" (hope you know how to do the heimlich)
This is the first romance I read with a twisty twist and I have only have two words: keep it. It did nothing for the story but edge it closer to soap opera territory. Regardless, I still bought The Spanish Love Deception because apparently that's her best one and I want to give her another shot. As long as there's no dry humping, I'll be okay.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: funny at times, bare bones of the plot was solid (execution was suss)
Cons: reading a spicy scene about dry humping in a forest felt like a sex crime, Cam and Adalyn's relationship went inexplicably 0-100, didn't need that twisty twist at the end, storytelling was clunky, repetitive odd turn of phrases
September 11, 2023
A grumpy hero and an ice queen bad ass of a heroine, bring together a fiery of a chemistry romance that will have you wanting for more...
THIS BOOK! THIS BOOOOOOOOOOOK! Elena, my dear Elena... my lovely friend from far away, your stroking fingers and brilliant mind know what they are doing. YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING! I knew from the moment that you texted me about Cameron, that he was going to be my ultimate daddy that I have been craving for a while now. The daddy of all daddy's. Not that this is a daddy trope... **cough cough** but my daddy issues make me feel like a little girl, twirling her hair when reading more about Cameron. He is just so suave and rough simultaneously and it makes me melt. And Adelyn? Being a bad ass of a super star is an understatement. Her character as a whole makes me love her and admire.
Enemies to lovers is yet another understatement of what an incredible trope this story is. Cameron and Adelyn's initial interaction makes you instantly fall in love with their power chemistry. Two individuals from different worlds, collide and meet to help out a team of little girls and their little league soccer team. With time, and more unintentional interactions in this small town, Cam and Adelyn cannot deny that their undeniable chemistry is there. And though Adelyn has some internal battles of her own that keep her at arms length, she knows that denying her attraction towards Cameron is not something she can live with for a long time;
Their road towards getting to know one another leads them to really open up in ways they would never thought they ever would with a partner. And once Cameron sees her. Truly, honorably sees Adelyn and her touch exterior breaks down, he knows that she is someone that he wants. Someone he craves and will be addicted to from that moment on;
Not only do we get this magical of a story featuring Cameron and Adelyn, but Elena has introduced side characters that will make you fall for them all. Especially Maria, and her anxious filled and blind goat, Brandy. These two are goofballs in the making and made my stomach hurt with how much I kept laughing at their interactions with Cam and Adelyn. And of course, we cannot forget San Sebastián, because Elena's love for Sebastian Stan a.k.a. Bucky, comes in a form of hilarious rooster in this story. Oh, and Willow and Pierogi, oh gosh. These two feline friends make me crack up. Their possessive streak is on a run and I love everything about it.
This story is beyond anything that Elena has written thus far. And as her friend, it is truly a beauty and honor getting to see her go through this journey. I am beyond proud of her. And after all is said and done, readers will want more of Cameron just as much as I do!
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THIS BOOK! THIS BOOOOOOOOOOOK! Elena, my dear Elena... my lovely friend from far away, your stroking fingers and brilliant mind know what they are doing. YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING! I knew from the moment that you texted me about Cameron, that he was going to be my ultimate daddy that I have been craving for a while now. The daddy of all daddy's. Not that this is a daddy trope... **cough cough** but my daddy issues make me feel like a little girl, twirling her hair when reading more about Cameron. He is just so suave and rough simultaneously and it makes me melt. And Adelyn? Being a bad ass of a super star is an understatement. Her character as a whole makes me love her and admire.
Enemies to lovers is yet another understatement of what an incredible trope this story is. Cameron and Adelyn's initial interaction makes you instantly fall in love with their power chemistry. Two individuals from different worlds, collide and meet to help out a team of little girls and their little league soccer team. With time, and more unintentional interactions in this small town, Cam and Adelyn cannot deny that their undeniable chemistry is there. And though Adelyn has some internal battles of her own that keep her at arms length, she knows that denying her attraction towards Cameron is not something she can live with for a long time;
"You were looking at me the way you are now. Just like that. I didn't want it to end." His words were soft, barely a whisper.
"Like what?"
"Like I'm something precious. Worth look at." His face fell.
"Why would you think otherwise?"
"Because no one ever looks at me that way."
Their road towards getting to know one another leads them to really open up in ways they would never thought they ever would with a partner. And once Cameron sees her. Truly, honorably sees Adelyn and her touch exterior breaks down, he knows that she is someone that he wants. Someone he craves and will be addicted to from that moment on;
"She's not a prize to be won." I took the elastic from her."She's... not a game. She's more than something you win. She's more than a loss. She's everything that's worth playing for. She's everything in between."
Not only do we get this magical of a story featuring Cameron and Adelyn, but Elena has introduced side characters that will make you fall for them all. Especially Maria, and her anxious filled and blind goat, Brandy. These two are goofballs in the making and made my stomach hurt with how much I kept laughing at their interactions with Cam and Adelyn. And of course, we cannot forget San Sebastián, because Elena's love for Sebastian Stan a.k.a. Bucky, comes in a form of hilarious rooster in this story. Oh, and Willow and Pierogi, oh gosh. These two feline friends make me crack up. Their possessive streak is on a run and I love everything about it.
This story is beyond anything that Elena has written thus far. And as her friend, it is truly a beauty and honor getting to see her go through this journey. I am beyond proud of her. And after all is said and done, readers will want more of Cameron just as much as I do!
Follow Me On:
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September 30, 2023
Forget grumpy/sunshine! I want all the grumpy/grumpy romances.
This was so much fun to read! I enjoyed it as much as I did reading The Spanish Love Deception.
The Good
I love it when authors can write scenes between characters that just flows, where things naturally bounce back and forth between them with ease and that seed gets planted in your mind that these two love interests make sense. Yes! They should be together!
Adalyn and Cameron don’t get off on the right foot. There’s some animosity between them that stems from baggage they’re carrying. They’re working on a project together that forces them to let their guard down and ensures they work as a team and gain the success that’s needed.
One of the things I loved about this book was how Cameron’s protective instincts started kicking in for Adalyn without it being unbearable and suffocating. This wasn’t something Adalyn could really understand. She’s used to standing on her own, the people she should’ve trusted in her life have continuously failed her. The way she views herself isn’t all too pretty either. But he took care such good care of her! 🥹
The vulnerabilities and insecurities shown was appreciated.
“I wouldn’t hate it if you were the one slaying my dragons for me.”
I like how the story unravelled. Between the characters and their romantic development as well as how their own baggage came to light. It was a slow-burn on both fronts. It all made me feel warm and soft inside.
There was a great balance between the romance and the plot for me. The kids were a great addition to the story too. They added such comic relief and lightness to it all. As well as the pets!
The Could’ve-Been-Better
Third-act conflicts can make or break a story and the slight downfall of this book occurred here. The way it was handled wasn’t my favourite. It needed to be more fleshed out after certain revelations and it also seems like Elena Armas has a tendency to lean into the cheese. Not that I had a major problem with it, but it became a little too noticeable and took me out of the story.
And as a fellow Brit, no one says ‘love’ and ‘darling’ that often. It appeared on almost every other page. It was endearing at first and then it became a eye-rolly.
We don’t even like people like that.
All in all, I had a great time reading this book. Every time I put it down, I couldn’t wait to pick it back up again. That’s all I really want from my books, to fuel that desire of ‘I don’t want to stop reading you.’
This was so much fun to read! I enjoyed it as much as I did reading The Spanish Love Deception.
The Good
I love it when authors can write scenes between characters that just flows, where things naturally bounce back and forth between them with ease and that seed gets planted in your mind that these two love interests make sense. Yes! They should be together!
Adalyn and Cameron don’t get off on the right foot. There’s some animosity between them that stems from baggage they’re carrying. They’re working on a project together that forces them to let their guard down and ensures they work as a team and gain the success that’s needed.
One of the things I loved about this book was how Cameron’s protective instincts started kicking in for Adalyn without it being unbearable and suffocating. This wasn’t something Adalyn could really understand. She’s used to standing on her own, the people she should’ve trusted in her life have continuously failed her. The way she views herself isn’t all too pretty either. But he took care such good care of her! 🥹
The vulnerabilities and insecurities shown was appreciated.
“I wouldn’t hate it if you were the one slaying my dragons for me.”
I like how the story unravelled. Between the characters and their romantic development as well as how their own baggage came to light. It was a slow-burn on both fronts. It all made me feel warm and soft inside.
There was a great balance between the romance and the plot for me. The kids were a great addition to the story too. They added such comic relief and lightness to it all. As well as the pets!
The Could’ve-Been-Better
Third-act conflicts can make or break a story and the slight downfall of this book occurred here. The way it was handled wasn’t my favourite. It needed to be more fleshed out after certain revelations and it also seems like Elena Armas has a tendency to lean into the cheese. Not that I had a major problem with it, but it became a little too noticeable and took me out of the story.
And as a fellow Brit, no one says ‘love’ and ‘darling’ that often. It appeared on almost every other page. It was endearing at first and then it became a eye-rolly.
We don’t even like people like that.
All in all, I had a great time reading this book. Every time I put it down, I couldn’t wait to pick it back up again. That’s all I really want from my books, to fuel that desire of ‘I don’t want to stop reading you.’
December 30, 2023
2.75⭐️
I’m so disappointed. I did not love this at all 😭😭😭
The heroine is insufferable and the story does not get interesting until the middle. I almost DNF twice.I liked the MMC but he used “darling” over 50 times(trust me I counted). There are some cute moments but overall I can’t rate this any higher.
Tropes
⚽️grumpyXgrumpy
⚽️forced proximity
⚽️He falls first
⚽️Sports romance
Things I Loved
💓the goats
💓the TENSION and slow burn
I’m so disappointed. I did not love this at all 😭😭😭
The heroine is insufferable and the story does not get interesting until the middle. I almost DNF twice.I liked the MMC but he used “darling” over 50 times(trust me I counted). There are some cute moments but overall I can’t rate this any higher.
Tropes
⚽️grumpyXgrumpy
⚽️forced proximity
⚽️He falls first
⚽️Sports romance
Things I Loved
💓the goats
💓the TENSION and slow burn
June 28, 2024
This book was sooo good omg idk what to do w my life rn i feel empty 😭😭 this book had me staying up till five am just for one last chapter ugh I loved it
There’s sm about this book that I couldn’t believe I would enjoy and love the amount that I did. The tropes plsssss I was foaming at the mouth for Cam
His British accent is so perfectly done olahshjd I love him sfmmmmm
He’s so patient loving caring adoring plsss I WANT HIM SFB ITS A LIVING BREATHING NEED IN MY CHEST 😭
Some ppl would not appreciate how Cam behaves and speaks but it’s exactly how a British person is lol which is definitely why I’m in loveeee with how he’s written. He’s not pompous or snobby he’s just normal and it’s so freaking precious to me.
Overall I loved this book! It’s safe to say Elena Armas has become an auto buy author for me.
***
Lessgoooo
***
Update: September 5th isn’t coming fast enough.
***
Hello?! Screaming crying throwing up-
Dual pov?! He’s gonna be grumpier than Aaron what?!?! Sign me tf up bc sports romance is my bread and butter 🤭💘🦋💕
There’s sm about this book that I couldn’t believe I would enjoy and love the amount that I did. The tropes plsssss I was foaming at the mouth for Cam
His British accent is so perfectly done olahshjd I love him sfmmmmm
He’s so patient loving caring adoring plsss I WANT HIM SFB ITS A LIVING BREATHING NEED IN MY CHEST 😭
Some ppl would not appreciate how Cam behaves and speaks but it’s exactly how a British person is lol which is definitely why I’m in loveeee with how he’s written. He’s not pompous or snobby he’s just normal and it’s so freaking precious to me.
Overall I loved this book! It’s safe to say Elena Armas has become an auto buy author for me.
***
Lessgoooo
***
Update: September 5th isn’t coming fast enough.
***
Hello?! Screaming crying throwing up-
Dual pov?! He’s gonna be grumpier than Aaron what?!?! Sign me tf up bc sports romance is my bread and butter 🤭💘🦋💕
October 27, 2024
╰┈➤ 2 stars!
this book was so boring from the start, and although it took a turn, it was still overall underwhelming for me.
౨ৎ adalyn. this woman is so weak for arms and hands, and i'm not gonna lie, i totally get her. don't ask why, but i really get it. that was a crazy introduction about her character because she's so full of doubt. little did she know that her world would change after going to a small town? she's truly amazing, and i can see why the green warriors look up to her. she deserves to see herself how other sees her, so that she'd realize how amazing she is.
౨ৎ cameron. this man is such a protector. everything he does if for adalyn's peace and safety, because he knows it himself how hard it is to let your guard down after getting your trust broken. i truly love his honesty because even if it would hurt someone, he'd still tell it. he would literally help you become a better version of yourself, spread your wings because he knows your capability and i love him for that.
overall, i think this book wasn't good but not bad as well. it isn't my favorite but the pacing was really good, not too slow or fast. the storyline wasn't stretched to the point where pointless things are happening, which i'm so glad of.
౨ৎ favorite lines/quotes:
"Jesus, she'd never looked more beautiful than right now."
"I wonder who made you believe you don't deserve to be fussed over."
"You should give yourself a chance."
"That for someone who's always justifying everybody else's shit behavior, you're extremely hard on yourself."
"I think that you've worked so hard at keeping yourself contained, so in control and safe behind that shell you put around yourself that it was all bound to collapse."
"I'll always give you more than what you ask for, love. Even when you don't know what you want."
"You are who you are. And I love that. Let those goddamn smiles be rare as long as they're mine."
"She's... not a game. She's more than something you win. She's more than a loss. She's everything that's worth playing for. She's everything in between."
this book was so boring from the start, and although it took a turn, it was still overall underwhelming for me.
౨ৎ adalyn. this woman is so weak for arms and hands, and i'm not gonna lie, i totally get her. don't ask why, but i really get it. that was a crazy introduction about her character because she's so full of doubt. little did she know that her world would change after going to a small town? she's truly amazing, and i can see why the green warriors look up to her. she deserves to see herself how other sees her, so that she'd realize how amazing she is.
౨ৎ cameron. this man is such a protector. everything he does if for adalyn's peace and safety, because he knows it himself how hard it is to let your guard down after getting your trust broken. i truly love his honesty because even if it would hurt someone, he'd still tell it. he would literally help you become a better version of yourself, spread your wings because he knows your capability and i love him for that.
overall, i think this book wasn't good but not bad as well. it isn't my favorite but the pacing was really good, not too slow or fast. the storyline wasn't stretched to the point where pointless things are happening, which i'm so glad of.
౨ৎ favorite lines/quotes:
"Jesus, she'd never looked more beautiful than right now."
"I wonder who made you believe you don't deserve to be fussed over."
"You should give yourself a chance."
"That for someone who's always justifying everybody else's shit behavior, you're extremely hard on yourself."
"I think that you've worked so hard at keeping yourself contained, so in control and safe behind that shell you put around yourself that it was all bound to collapse."
"I'll always give you more than what you ask for, love. Even when you don't know what you want."
"You are who you are. And I love that. Let those goddamn smiles be rare as long as they're mine."
"She's... not a game. She's more than something you win. She's more than a loss. She's everything that's worth playing for. She's everything in between."
September 16, 2023
WHEN YOUR MOST ANTICIPATED READ BECOMES A NEW FAVOURITE BOOK OF THE YEAR. THE FEELING IS UNMATCHED.
Slowww burn sports romance, grumpy x grumpy, dislike to lovers (done RIGHT😩), small town, forced proximity (neighbours🤭), dual pov, mental health rep
You know the book is booking when it has you questioning your whole existence (aka asking yourself if you’re cheating on Aaron Blackford🫣). I unfortunately can’t spam my review with quotes (yet😏) but LET ME TELL YOU. I would never run after a man but bish if he was CAMERON CALDANI, I might just power walk🏃♀️
Him and Adalyn (I love an unbothered boss queen) are chefs kiss perfection🤌. AMAZING CHARACTERS, AMAZING PLOT. I love couples that annoy the living shiza out of each other. They drive each other up the wall, like ok? Just make out. Straight up POWER COUPLE. They’d do anything for each other and they’re such a good team😭. The banter, total nuttery, protectiveness, nurturing comfort, the effort, chemistry, JAILLL TIME SHMEXY SWOON WORTHY build up. Holy mother of god🪦. Adalyn was drooling? Honey no, I WAS. I was also sweating. And laugh crying😮💨. I feel like we all want to be loved for who we truly are, they deserved the world🥺. AND THEY GOT IT. EACH OTHERS SAFE SPACE, HOME🫶. It’s such a green flag to feel that kind of love and support🩷
Also I have to say it, a secret swiftie cat dad🥵? Goat yoga and pottery officially added to the dream dates list🫡. Elena is too good at serving our delusions😍. She’s never let me down😫 her books are such a blessing. The ending was iconic👊 (booo fathers let’s ban them)
I SMELL ANOTHER BOOK😈 that'll keep me going since I didn't want this book to ever end🥹
Y'all already know the math equation: TOP-TIER book husband🫦 written by THE icon, legend, moment👑 = ♾️ stars 💳💥💥💳💥💥
Edit #69- I got my physical copy today🤭and STICKERS🥹 #girldinner
Edit again😍 (nobody’s shocked)- This always happens after I read Elena Armas books, it’s routine by now. Time passes since I finish it, I get more and more obsessed, constant 24/7 fake scenarios (especially before sleep and while listening to Taylor Swift ofc😌), I want to hurl myself into the book to live in Green Oak, on my literal knees for Cameron like his legs must be HURTING from running all over my mind. Anyways🙂 LONG LIVE ALL THE MOUNTAINS WE MOVED, I HAD THE TIME OF MY LIFE FIGHTING DRAGONS WITH YOUUU
------
Dreams do come true🥹 thank you for having me as one of your arc influencers Simon and Schuster🫶
------
HOW ADORABLE IS THIS ROMANCE ON A SCALE OF ZERO TO SEBASTIAN STAN? ‼️IT’S A SEBASTIAN STAN AND A HALF FOLKS‼️ ELENA’S IG STORIES HAVE ME HYPERVENTILATING. I CANNOT CONTAIN MY EXCITEMENT‼️AND A HERO GRUMPIER THAN AARON, CHAOS, FEMALE RAGE, AND ANGSTY KISSING⁉️ FALL 2023 LETS GOOO
Edit- WE HAVE A TITLE😫😫 Elena if you see this🤭 I would love to go ABSOLUTELY INSANE for an arc🫶. Thanks tehe🥹
Edit #2- STUNNING COVER REVEAL ON INSTA I AM SCREAMING IT’S EVERYTHING I DREAMED OF AND MORE😭😭🐐 (idk how to remain calm until September 5th tbh🧍♀️)
Slowww burn sports romance, grumpy x grumpy, dislike to lovers (done RIGHT😩), small town, forced proximity (neighbours🤭), dual pov, mental health rep
You know the book is booking when it has you questioning your whole existence (aka asking yourself if you’re cheating on Aaron Blackford🫣). I unfortunately can’t spam my review with quotes (yet😏) but LET ME TELL YOU. I would never run after a man but bish if he was CAMERON CALDANI, I might just power walk🏃♀️
Him and Adalyn (I love an unbothered boss queen) are chefs kiss perfection🤌. AMAZING CHARACTERS, AMAZING PLOT. I love couples that annoy the living shiza out of each other. They drive each other up the wall, like ok? Just make out. Straight up POWER COUPLE. They’d do anything for each other and they’re such a good team😭. The banter, total nuttery, protectiveness, nurturing comfort, the effort, chemistry, JAILLL TIME SHMEXY SWOON WORTHY build up. Holy mother of god🪦. Adalyn was drooling? Honey no, I WAS. I was also sweating. And laugh crying😮💨. I feel like we all want to be loved for who we truly are, they deserved the world🥺. AND THEY GOT IT. EACH OTHERS SAFE SPACE, HOME🫶. It’s such a green flag to feel that kind of love and support🩷
Also I have to say it, a secret swiftie cat dad🥵? Goat yoga and pottery officially added to the dream dates list🫡. Elena is too good at serving our delusions😍. She’s never let me down😫 her books are such a blessing. The ending was iconic👊 (booo fathers let’s ban them)
I SMELL ANOTHER BOOK😈 that'll keep me going since I didn't want this book to ever end🥹
Y'all already know the math equation: TOP-TIER book husband🫦 written by THE icon, legend, moment👑 = ♾️ stars 💳💥💥💳💥💥
Edit #69- I got my physical copy today🤭and STICKERS🥹 #girldinner
Edit again😍 (nobody’s shocked)- This always happens after I read Elena Armas books, it’s routine by now. Time passes since I finish it, I get more and more obsessed, constant 24/7 fake scenarios (especially before sleep and while listening to Taylor Swift ofc😌), I want to hurl myself into the book to live in Green Oak, on my literal knees for Cameron like his legs must be HURTING from running all over my mind. Anyways🙂 LONG LIVE ALL THE MOUNTAINS WE MOVED, I HAD THE TIME OF MY LIFE FIGHTING DRAGONS WITH YOUUU
------
Dreams do come true🥹 thank you for having me as one of your arc influencers Simon and Schuster🫶
------
HOW ADORABLE IS THIS ROMANCE ON A SCALE OF ZERO TO SEBASTIAN STAN? ‼️IT’S A SEBASTIAN STAN AND A HALF FOLKS‼️ ELENA’S IG STORIES HAVE ME HYPERVENTILATING. I CANNOT CONTAIN MY EXCITEMENT‼️AND A HERO GRUMPIER THAN AARON, CHAOS, FEMALE RAGE, AND ANGSTY KISSING⁉️ FALL 2023 LETS GOOO
Edit- WE HAVE A TITLE😫😫 Elena if you see this🤭 I would love to go ABSOLUTELY INSANE for an arc🫶. Thanks tehe🥹
Edit #2- STUNNING COVER REVEAL ON INSTA I AM SCREAMING IT’S EVERYTHING I DREAMED OF AND MORE😭😭🐐 (idk how to remain calm until September 5th tbh🧍♀️)
May 25, 2024
This book was definitely long. I gave it 3 stars because I actually enjoyed the first ⅓ of this book. It was a slow burn enemy to lovers trope which I normally enjoy. I thought it was hilarious for at least half the book but then it slowed down and got painfully boring. The only reason why I picked this up was because I got approved to read the second one in this series, “The Fiancé Dilemma”. I thought I had to read the first one to understand the second one but now that I’ve researched it I find that's not true.
Adalyn is a big city, stiletto wearing, extremely responsible (possibly uptight) woman from Miami. She works for the Miami Heat soccer team and also happens to be the owner’s daughter. But if you think she gets special treatment, think again. After a particularly embarrassing and viral incident involving accidentally assaulting the Mascot, she is banished from the team by her angry father. Adalyn finds herself in a small town managing a very different soccer team - a girl’s little league team. Just as she thinks it can't get any worse, the coach of the team is a total pain in the ass. An extremely sexy pain in the ass. Adalyn and Cameron hate each other but must work closely to get these girls ready to compete.
I did love the premise of this book. The idea was cute. The enemies part I loved. The comebacks were witty, and the sexual tension was top tier. I just thought it was too long and I did get bored after a while.
❤️❤️❤️
Adalyn is a big city, stiletto wearing, extremely responsible (possibly uptight) woman from Miami. She works for the Miami Heat soccer team and also happens to be the owner’s daughter. But if you think she gets special treatment, think again. After a particularly embarrassing and viral incident involving accidentally assaulting the Mascot, she is banished from the team by her angry father. Adalyn finds herself in a small town managing a very different soccer team - a girl’s little league team. Just as she thinks it can't get any worse, the coach of the team is a total pain in the ass. An extremely sexy pain in the ass. Adalyn and Cameron hate each other but must work closely to get these girls ready to compete.
I did love the premise of this book. The idea was cute. The enemies part I loved. The comebacks were witty, and the sexual tension was top tier. I just thought it was too long and I did get bored after a while.
❤️❤️❤️
May 25, 2024
･:*:･ﾟ⁀➷ 3.75/5 ★
This was sm fun! 🥹🥹 I went in with zero expectations, but it was such an entertaining & bingeable romance, which was exactly what I was looking for 💐🩷
➷ “You are all I can see. Even when I close my eyes, you’re all I see.”
Tropes:
⚽ Grumpy mmc
⚽ Sports romance
⚽ Small town setting
⚽ Dual pov
⚽ One of them is famous
This was my first book by elena armas and although i was a little unsure how i was going to feel about it, i actually had a really good time! It was so easy to fly through 🫶🫶
ೃ⁀➷ Writing & plot:
I honestly really enjoyed Elena Armas’ writing! It wasn’t the best writing, but it was really easy & enjoyable to read. I would like to try another book by her and now i wonder if it’s finally time to try the Spanish Love Deception. (if any of you have read it, pls let me know if it’s worth it)
The plot was also pretty enjoyable! 💐 There was enough going on outside the romance to keep me interested and i really liked the small town setting. Plus the 9 year olds on the soccer team was so cute ugh!! ☹️💘
➷ “I didn’t ask you to come for me.”
“You never need to ask, love.”
ೃ⁀➷ Characters:
While the characters weren’t anything crazy, i did enjoy reading about them and the found family vibes in the small town were super fun.
➵ Adalyn: i really liked her! I feel like she was a well-rounded person and i liked seeing that she deserved better treatment from the people in her life than she was getting 🥰
➵ Cameron: he was honestly a pretty typical grumpy 6ft tall mmc, but i still enjoyed his character. The acts of service he did for adalyn were really sweet 🫶🫶
➵ Josie: she was such a good side character and i can’t wait to get her book next!!
➷ “I’ve always felt like I never really clicked anywhere. Like, I always need to make a bigger effort to show everyone that I deserved to be there. And here you are. Making me feel like you’d close the gap to get to me. Like I don’t need to convince you.”
ೃ⁀➷ Romance:
Ofc the romance was super fun 😚💐 I liked how cam and adalyn started off on the wrong foot and then seeing them get to know each other. There were so many really fun situations between the two of them to develop the tension really well. The physical attraction between the two characters wasn’t my fav, but there was still enough of an emotional connection to make me feel connected to them. Plus the third act conflict wasn’t that bad!! FINALLY ✋️
➷ “Oh, the audacity of men to doubt a woman’s capacity to endure pain and discomfort.”
ೃ⁀➷ In conclusion:
Definitely not the best romance i’ve ever read, but i had a lot of fun! 🥹🥹 I would recommend if you’re looking for:
✔️ Super bingeable writing
✔️ Fun characters
✔️ Easy to read romance
✔️ Sports romance
I could definitely see myself reading the next book when it comes out 🪷✨️
《 2024 Challenge: Book 61 of 115 》
･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･
ೃ⁀➷ prereview:
➷ ahh this was sm fun! 🤭🤭 exactly the kind of bingeable, entertaining romance I was looking for 🪷✨️
rtc 🩷
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ೃ⁀➷ pre-read:
➷ first elena armas book! 🪷 i've been reading sm fantasy recently, so time for a fun little romance 😚🩷
This was sm fun! 🥹🥹 I went in with zero expectations, but it was such an entertaining & bingeable romance, which was exactly what I was looking for 💐🩷
➷ “You are all I can see. Even when I close my eyes, you’re all I see.”
Tropes:
⚽ Grumpy mmc
⚽ Sports romance
⚽ Small town setting
⚽ Dual pov
⚽ One of them is famous
This was my first book by elena armas and although i was a little unsure how i was going to feel about it, i actually had a really good time! It was so easy to fly through 🫶🫶
ೃ⁀➷ Writing & plot:
I honestly really enjoyed Elena Armas’ writing! It wasn’t the best writing, but it was really easy & enjoyable to read. I would like to try another book by her and now i wonder if it’s finally time to try the Spanish Love Deception. (if any of you have read it, pls let me know if it’s worth it)
The plot was also pretty enjoyable! 💐 There was enough going on outside the romance to keep me interested and i really liked the small town setting. Plus the 9 year olds on the soccer team was so cute ugh!! ☹️💘
➷ “I didn’t ask you to come for me.”
“You never need to ask, love.”
ೃ⁀➷ Characters:
While the characters weren’t anything crazy, i did enjoy reading about them and the found family vibes in the small town were super fun.
➵ Adalyn: i really liked her! I feel like she was a well-rounded person and i liked seeing that she deserved better treatment from the people in her life than she was getting 🥰
➵ Cameron: he was honestly a pretty typical grumpy 6ft tall mmc, but i still enjoyed his character. The acts of service he did for adalyn were really sweet 🫶🫶
➵ Josie: she was such a good side character and i can’t wait to get her book next!!
➷ “I’ve always felt like I never really clicked anywhere. Like, I always need to make a bigger effort to show everyone that I deserved to be there. And here you are. Making me feel like you’d close the gap to get to me. Like I don’t need to convince you.”
ೃ⁀➷ Romance:
Ofc the romance was super fun 😚💐 I liked how cam and adalyn started off on the wrong foot and then seeing them get to know each other. There were so many really fun situations between the two of them to develop the tension really well. The physical attraction between the two characters wasn’t my fav, but there was still enough of an emotional connection to make me feel connected to them. Plus the third act conflict wasn’t that bad!! FINALLY ✋️
➷ “Oh, the audacity of men to doubt a woman’s capacity to endure pain and discomfort.”
ೃ⁀➷ In conclusion:
Definitely not the best romance i’ve ever read, but i had a lot of fun! 🥹🥹 I would recommend if you’re looking for:
✔️ Super bingeable writing
✔️ Fun characters
✔️ Easy to read romance
✔️ Sports romance
I could definitely see myself reading the next book when it comes out 🪷✨️
《 2024 Challenge: Book 61 of 115 》
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ೃ⁀➷ prereview:
➷ ahh this was sm fun! 🤭🤭 exactly the kind of bingeable, entertaining romance I was looking for 🪷✨️
rtc 🩷
･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･ﾟ･:*:･
ೃ⁀➷ pre-read:
➷ first elena armas book! 🪷 i've been reading sm fantasy recently, so time for a fun little romance 😚🩷
October 19, 2023
when he calls you love or darling>>>>>
August 5, 2024
The only reason why I’m using my last straw of energy for writing this is that I feel I must tell anyone who wants to listen that this book almost put me in a book slump, and not one of the good ones.
The disappointment in my body is also disappointed.
I didn't just think I’d like this book, I felt CERTAIN I’d love it. And let's be clear: I'm not enraged only because it's poorly written, so many details don't make sense, and the whole thing seems to come out from a bad sitcom.
BUT HOW COULD YOU THINK THAT MASHING UP A FICTIONAL CHARACTER AND A REAL PERSON WAS A GOOD IDEA?!
For the ones of you who don't know what I'm talking about, Cameron has the personality and temper of Roy Kent - the most loved grumpy footballer in Ted Lasso, portrayed by Brett Goldstein - and the look of Daniel Ricciardo - F1 driver and tattoos enthusiast, known for being a golden retriever.
Hence, Cameron not only doesn't have the personality of a guy with a thigh tattoo, but it was also very confusing to empathize between a TV show copycat events and real facts about DR.
Is the rest that bad? Generally speaking, yes.
I get what the author was trying to accomplish by making this set of characters and their problems, but the truth is that they aren't that deep and more times than not it all feels forced, like fake laughs.
Last but not least, the dual POV may be the worst writing expedient so many authors try to include it in their work, without actually being able to accomplish it.
↠ 2 stars
The disappointment in my body is also disappointed.
I didn't just think I’d like this book, I felt CERTAIN I’d love it. And let's be clear: I'm not enraged only because it's poorly written, so many details don't make sense, and the whole thing seems to come out from a bad sitcom.
BUT HOW COULD YOU THINK THAT MASHING UP A FICTIONAL CHARACTER AND A REAL PERSON WAS A GOOD IDEA?!
For the ones of you who don't know what I'm talking about, Cameron has the personality and temper of Roy Kent - the most loved grumpy footballer in Ted Lasso, portrayed by Brett Goldstein - and the look of Daniel Ricciardo - F1 driver and tattoos enthusiast, known for being a golden retriever.
Hence, Cameron not only doesn't have the personality of a guy with a thigh tattoo, but it was also very confusing to empathize between a TV show copycat events and real facts about DR.
Is the rest that bad? Generally speaking, yes.
I get what the author was trying to accomplish by making this set of characters and their problems, but the truth is that they aren't that deep and more times than not it all feels forced, like fake laughs.
Last but not least, the dual POV may be the worst writing expedient so many authors try to include it in their work, without actually being able to accomplish it.
↠ 2 stars
September 11, 2023
“I’ll slay your dragons for you” and he’s literally a soccer player
June 9, 2023
TW//
I have heard nothing but good things about Elena Armas’ books, so when I got an email saying I could read this book on NetGalley, I hopped on the opportunity. The synopsis sounded really cute and I was looking forward to reading a fun romance.
However, things started to feel disappointing with this book right away. I hated Adalyn and Cameron right off the bat. They were both cocky, controlling, and honestly really insufferable. Adalyn wanted extreme control of her life and I get that she needed to be confident to maintain that control, but she still got on my nerves with how full of herself she was. Cameron was worse than Adalyn. He was controlling of the relationship and it gave me massive ick. Cameron felt like he needed to be a knight in shining armor for Adalyn instead of letting her deal with her own problems. He claimed he didn’t want to do that, but all of his actions after he started falling for her really boiled down to his need to “save” her. It got on my nerves so much, especially since I have experience with guys who think they're a knight in shining armor.
I was also getting nonstop second hand embarassment from how physical they’d get around other people. I get that they want to be physical with each other, but they’re literally working with a kids soccer team in an extremely smalltown. They’ve got to control their desires in public a little better.
Speaking of romance, this was supposed to be an enemies-to-lovers, but their whole reason for being enemies frustrated me. They were both too stubborn to admit that they could be wrong, so because of that they feuded with each other nonstop. Their first encounter was definitely awkward, but it was no reason to be enemies for so long.
I was hoping that the side characters would carry the story for me, but they didn’t at all. I found all the side characters annoying, especially Josie and the kids. It was super unrealistic, too, to have a nine year old kid give a speech like what a therapist would give. What should’ve been a powerful moment in the book turned into a cringey moment for me because it was a freaking nine year old child giving the life advice.
I hated how Elena Armas would jump from scene to scene with her writing. I’m not sure if it’s like this in her other books, but a scene would occur that seemed like it would be the start of a steamy or powerful scene… but then it would abruptly fastfoward to a new day. I desperately needed those scenes to be completely finished because I was curious about what would happen next, but most of the scenes felt incomplete from all the time jumps.
There were some loose ends in this book that frustrated me. Whatever happened with the chicken? And where’s the resolution to the energy drink drama? Plus, it’s clear that Matthew had some romantic feelings for Adalyn - why didn’t the story ever address that?
One last criticism before I dive into my two positives to this book: I hated how much “darling” and “love” were used in here. I was on the verge of ripping out my hair from annoyance at all those pet names.
On a more positive note, I found the hurt/comfort scenes to be cute. I think Cameron went a little overboard with how much he wanted to care for Adalyn, but I’d never read such intense hurt/comfort scenes in a book before so I enjoyed seeing how that trope could play out in a contemporary romance.
The only other thing I liked about the book were the cats. I loved how the cats played into the story.
As you can probably tell, I wasn’t a huge fan of this book. Unless Elena Armas’ characters and writing are drastically different in her other stories, I don’t think her books are for me. I think some people will like this book, but I just couldn’t find myself enjoying the time that I spent reading this book.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an eArc of this book.
I have heard nothing but good things about Elena Armas’ books, so when I got an email saying I could read this book on NetGalley, I hopped on the opportunity. The synopsis sounded really cute and I was looking forward to reading a fun romance.
However, things started to feel disappointing with this book right away. I hated Adalyn and Cameron right off the bat. They were both cocky, controlling, and honestly really insufferable. Adalyn wanted extreme control of her life and I get that she needed to be confident to maintain that control, but she still got on my nerves with how full of herself she was. Cameron was worse than Adalyn. He was controlling of the relationship and it gave me massive ick. Cameron felt like he needed to be a knight in shining armor for Adalyn instead of letting her deal with her own problems. He claimed he didn’t want to do that, but all of his actions after he started falling for her really boiled down to his need to “save” her. It got on my nerves so much, especially since I have experience with guys who think they're a knight in shining armor.
I was also getting nonstop second hand embarassment from how physical they’d get around other people. I get that they want to be physical with each other, but they’re literally working with a kids soccer team in an extremely smalltown. They’ve got to control their desires in public a little better.
Speaking of romance, this was supposed to be an enemies-to-lovers, but their whole reason for being enemies frustrated me. They were both too stubborn to admit that they could be wrong, so because of that they feuded with each other nonstop. Their first encounter was definitely awkward, but it was no reason to be enemies for so long.
I was hoping that the side characters would carry the story for me, but they didn’t at all. I found all the side characters annoying, especially Josie and the kids. It was super unrealistic, too, to have a nine year old kid give a speech like what a therapist would give. What should’ve been a powerful moment in the book turned into a cringey moment for me because it was a freaking nine year old child giving the life advice.
I hated how Elena Armas would jump from scene to scene with her writing. I’m not sure if it’s like this in her other books, but a scene would occur that seemed like it would be the start of a steamy or powerful scene… but then it would abruptly fastfoward to a new day. I desperately needed those scenes to be completely finished because I was curious about what would happen next, but most of the scenes felt incomplete from all the time jumps.
There were some loose ends in this book that frustrated me. Whatever happened with the chicken? And where’s the resolution to the energy drink drama? Plus, it’s clear that Matthew had some romantic feelings for Adalyn - why didn’t the story ever address that?
One last criticism before I dive into my two positives to this book: I hated how much “darling” and “love” were used in here. I was on the verge of ripping out my hair from annoyance at all those pet names.
On a more positive note, I found the hurt/comfort scenes to be cute. I think Cameron went a little overboard with how much he wanted to care for Adalyn, but I’d never read such intense hurt/comfort scenes in a book before so I enjoyed seeing how that trope could play out in a contemporary romance.
The only other thing I liked about the book were the cats. I loved how the cats played into the story.
As you can probably tell, I wasn’t a huge fan of this book. Unless Elena Armas’ characters and writing are drastically different in her other stories, I don’t think her books are for me. I think some people will like this book, but I just couldn’t find myself enjoying the time that I spent reading this book.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an eArc of this book.
September 20, 2023
DNF 30% Sigh..... I just can't.
December 16, 2023
hi this is amazing, i loved every second, i will be back closer to release with a full review but just know cam is HOT
September 6, 2023
3.75 stars ⚽️
in all honestly, i can see why some people won’t like this book. for me, i enjoyed the hell out of it for 2 reasons:
1. the romance is written really well
2. i’m tired of serious books. give me a cute, cliché rom-com and i’m happy these days
the book itself reminded me of it happened one summer. i just love when privileged women get forced to rural ass places against their will where they meet a grumpy men who are secretly golden retrievers 🥰
tropes:
↣ forced proximity
↣ grumpy x grumpy
↣ sports romance
↣ he falls first
↣ small town
this book revolves around adalyn (h), a disgraced soccer team executive and cameron (H), an ex professional soccer player turned little league coach. when adalyn is sent away by her dad, the owner of a pro soccer team, following an embarrassing video (i.e. for attacking the soccer team's mascot on tv), she’s made the manager of a tiny under-10 girls soccer team in the middle of buttfuck north carolina.
to be honest, the initial meeting between cam and adalyn annoyed the hell out of me. it’s one thing to be an ice queen and it’s another thing to just be plain rude. nearly running over a man then treating him like dirt when he tries to help YOU?? girl no 😭
yes because avoiding medical care for a head injury that resulted in a loss of consciousness just to spite a man who tried to help you is very smart 😄 because someone who assaults someone on live tv is smart in general
i’m actually a slut for heroes who don’t like children. okay that sounds kinda weird but to explain, i love when heroes ACT like they don’t like kids or animals but are secretly softies. cam feels awkward around kids, so watching him slowly accept the little shits as his own is so sweet 🥹
adalyn and cam’s progression from resentful neighbors to lovers was so well done. i don’t want to call them enemies because that gets thrown around too often but i adored their lack of a meet cute.
overall cam was just so considerate and sweet. there were the little things he’d do or say that really showcased how he fell for her first 😩
↬ like him helping her get through her panic attacks—
↬ or when adalyn hurt her ankle and cam forbid her from doing anything that would harm her. but even then he was grumpy because she wasn’t at soccer practice with him 🤧
↬ the way cameron would randomly compliment her made me swoon so many times. he had no right being that attractive
CHILE IT’S YOUR FIRST DATE 😭
↬ HE JUST WANTED TO HEAR HER LAUGH AND KEEP HER SAFE. I’M THROWING UP. IT’S SO DISGUSTINGLY CUTE
best scene overall was probably the pottery scene. i’m a sucker for recreations of the iconic scene from ghost. pottery has no right being this erotic
can i just say elena armas surprises me every time i read one of her smut scenes? her books always come across as cutesy and rom-com-like. you know where the smut is 2 paragraphs long and fades to black. but nuh uhhhh 🤭 she actually gives us details, which is always appreciated. and the praise kink being sprinkled in?? i couldn’t ask for anything better, especially since adalyn is someone who’s been neglected and used by her past relationships. it makes it so much more attractive
the one con i have about the smut was cam was a little too nice, to the point that it was cringe
EVEN READING IT THE SECOND TIME, IT’S HILARIOUS AS HELL 😭 way to kill the mood cam
spoiler below ‼️
daniel and adalyn’s dad can actually rot in hell 🧚🏻 allowing your own daughter to be put down and degraded just for your stupid benefit is insane. it was actually horrible to realize adalyn’s dad never actually gave a shit about her and was more worried about josie, his secret daughter and adalyn’s half-sister. when adalyn finally confronted daniel and he called her a bimbo, i actually expected her dad to say something but he didn’t?!
NO BUT ADALYN MADE ME SO MAD BECAUSE GIRL WHERE IS THE FIGHT???? YOU ATTACKED THE PAUL IN THE CHICKEN COSTUME (who didn't actually do anything) BUT NOT YOUR EX (daniel) OR YOUR FATHER??? BOTH WHO HAVE BEEN USING YOU FOR MONTHS/YEARS??? 🤬
her P.O.S. father was actually more worried about if adalyn realized josie was her sister like MAKE IT MAKE SENSE. one reason i didn’t rate this book higher was for all of this. i feel like it wasn’t explained how josie came to be and the history revolving that. maybe elena armas left it out because that would be addressed in book 2 though idk
thoughts on book 2:
am i the only one who didn’t care enough about matthew to get his book? 😭 maybe it’s just cause he’s just not my favorite type of MC (yanno the funny, loud type). like i'll still read it but i’m not actually interested in josie and matthew's story
long game
↠ #1 the long game — 3.75 stars
↠ #2 the short list — tbr
in all honestly, i can see why some people won’t like this book. for me, i enjoyed the hell out of it for 2 reasons:
1. the romance is written really well
2. i’m tired of serious books. give me a cute, cliché rom-com and i’m happy these days
the book itself reminded me of it happened one summer. i just love when privileged women get forced to rural ass places against their will where they meet a grumpy men who are secretly golden retrievers 🥰
tropes:
↣ forced proximity
↣ grumpy x grumpy
↣ sports romance
↣ he falls first
↣ small town
this book revolves around adalyn (h), a disgraced soccer team executive and cameron (H), an ex professional soccer player turned little league coach. when adalyn is sent away by her dad, the owner of a pro soccer team, following an embarrassing video (i.e. for attacking the soccer team's mascot on tv), she’s made the manager of a tiny under-10 girls soccer team in the middle of buttfuck north carolina.
to be honest, the initial meeting between cam and adalyn annoyed the hell out of me. it’s one thing to be an ice queen and it’s another thing to just be plain rude. nearly running over a man then treating him like dirt when he tries to help YOU?? girl no 😭
“Are you lost?…Is that why you’re here?”
Her eyes narrowed. “Why would I be lost? I was parking my car when you got in the way—”
My head was pounding but it wasn’t anything a few painkillers couldn’t fix. I didn’t need a hospital. Or ice. And I surely did not need a complete stranger telling me what I did or did not need.
yes because avoiding medical care for a head injury that resulted in a loss of consciousness just to spite a man who tried to help you is very smart 😄 because someone who assaults someone on live tv is smart in general
i’m actually a slut for heroes who don’t like children. okay that sounds kinda weird but to explain, i love when heroes ACT like they don’t like kids or animals but are secretly softies. cam feels awkward around kids, so watching him slowly accept the little shits as his own is so sweet 🥹
adalyn and cam’s progression from resentful neighbors to lovers was so well done. i don’t want to call them enemies because that gets thrown around too often but i adored their lack of a meet cute.
overall cam was just so considerate and sweet. there were the little things he’d do or say that really showcased how he fell for her first 😩
↬ like him helping her get through her panic attacks—
“In and out, darling.” What had to be his palm fell on my collarbone, firm, heavy, providing a physical tie I could focus on. “That’s it, just like that.”
↬ or when adalyn hurt her ankle and cam forbid her from doing anything that would harm her. but even then he was grumpy because she wasn’t at soccer practice with him 🤧
↬ the way cameron would randomly compliment her made me swoon so many times. he had no right being that attractive
“I’m finding it particularly hard to keep my hands off you”…”It’s seeing you in all these clothes I got for you.”
[…]
“I’m the outdoors version of an onion. You insisted. How can you find this… attractive?”
Cameron let out a dark chuckle. “Would it be so terrible if having you warm and safe makes me hard?”
CHILE IT’S YOUR FIRST DATE 😭
↬ HE JUST WANTED TO HEAR HER LAUGH AND KEEP HER SAFE. I’M THROWING UP. IT’S SO DISGUSTINGLY CUTE
I giggled. Giggled.
Cameron’s eyes shifted to mine, and when he said against my skin, “I could spend a lifetime hearing that sound.”
best scene overall was probably the pottery scene. i’m a sucker for recreations of the iconic scene from ghost. pottery has no right being this erotic
“Just like that.” His voice was now impossibly low, carrying the same quality I felt inside my chest. He moved even closer, his arms swallowing me up. “Good job, darling. Well done.”
can i just say elena armas surprises me every time i read one of her smut scenes? her books always come across as cutesy and rom-com-like. you know where the smut is 2 paragraphs long and fades to black. but nuh uhhhh 🤭 she actually gives us details, which is always appreciated. and the praise kink being sprinkled in?? i couldn’t ask for anything better, especially since adalyn is someone who’s been neglected and used by her past relationships. it makes it so much more attractive
the one con i have about the smut was cam was a little too nice, to the point that it was cringe
“Come with me, love.” His voice cracked. “Let me see you shine.”
EVEN READING IT THE SECOND TIME, IT’S HILARIOUS AS HELL 😭 way to kill the mood cam
spoiler below ‼️
daniel and adalyn’s dad can actually rot in hell 🧚🏻 allowing your own daughter to be put down and degraded just for your stupid benefit is insane. it was actually horrible to realize adalyn’s dad never actually gave a shit about her and was more worried about josie, his secret daughter and adalyn’s half-sister. when adalyn finally confronted daniel and he called her a bimbo, i actually expected her dad to say something but he didn’t?!
“...Why are you dressed like some… lumberjack bimbo?”
I heard Kelly scoff behind me.
My father rolled his eyes and said, “David.” As if this man hadn’t just disrespected me and that single warning was enough.
NO BUT ADALYN MADE ME SO MAD BECAUSE GIRL WHERE IS THE FIGHT???? YOU ATTACKED THE PAUL IN THE CHICKEN COSTUME (who didn't actually do anything) BUT NOT YOUR EX (daniel) OR YOUR FATHER??? BOTH WHO HAVE BEEN USING YOU FOR MONTHS/YEARS??? 🤬
her P.O.S. father was actually more worried about if adalyn realized josie was her sister like MAKE IT MAKE SENSE. one reason i didn’t rate this book higher was for all of this. i feel like it wasn’t explained how josie came to be and the history revolving that. maybe elena armas left it out because that would be addressed in book 2 though idk
thoughts on book 2:
am i the only one who didn’t care enough about matthew to get his book? 😭 maybe it’s just cause he’s just not my favorite type of MC (yanno the funny, loud type). like i'll still read it but i’m not actually interested in josie and matthew's story
long game
↠ #1 the long game — 3.75 stars
↠ #2 the short list — tbr
November 5, 2024
Another good read from EA! She's basically an auto buy for me at this point.
I enjoyed the overall sport theme, but I think it fell short in some areas. It reminded me too much of Kulti, which is one of the best, and this didn't quite live up to that. There wasn't much soccer either, especially from Cameron. He didn't do anything until the epilogue. Lame.
I also have a slight issue with men who use terms of endearment right off the bat. Sort of ruins it when it actually starts to mean something later.
But I enjoyed their overall chemistry and the internal issues they were processing and overcoming. And the third act break up wasn't too painful, which was a relief.
Would recommend!
I enjoyed the overall sport theme, but I think it fell short in some areas. It reminded me too much of Kulti, which is one of the best, and this didn't quite live up to that. There wasn't much soccer either, especially from Cameron. He didn't do anything until the epilogue. Lame.
I also have a slight issue with men who use terms of endearment right off the bat. Sort of ruins it when it actually starts to mean something later.
But I enjoyed their overall chemistry and the internal issues they were processing and overcoming. And the third act break up wasn't too painful, which was a relief.
Would recommend!
August 21, 2023
LOVE AMAZING ICONIC EVERYTHING I NEEDED AND MORE!!!!!!!!
October 10, 2023
I'm honestly so sad to be writing this review. The premise of The Long Game had such potential, and parts were really cute!! But overall, the first 66% of this book fell flat. I'm all for a slow burn (I get burnt out on smut), but the first half of the book was just two annoyingly grumpy people being hard-headed for absolutely no reason?
Of course, they had reasons to be curmudgeonly in other areas of their lives... so does everyone.. but.. wearing stilettos to go to yoga? Or to traipse around a mountain town..? Refusing to ask for help to fix one's infested rental? Is anyone really that impractical?
Also - I feel like if you normally love a sports romance.. this didn't hit on that trope the way I wanted it to either. Bummed!!
The Good: Great found family vibes, love a small town setting, and goat yoga sounds adorable!!
Official Elena Armas Book Rankings! (Lol... I'm not official at all, but I don't care.)
#1. The American Roommate Experiment
#2. The Spanish Love Deception
#3. The Long Game
Will I read the next Elena Armas? Probably. I loved TARE so much that I'm always chasing that feeling!
Of course, they had reasons to be curmudgeonly in other areas of their lives... so does everyone.. but.. wearing stilettos to go to yoga? Or to traipse around a mountain town..? Refusing to ask for help to fix one's infested rental? Is anyone really that impractical?
Also - I feel like if you normally love a sports romance.. this didn't hit on that trope the way I wanted it to either. Bummed!!
The Good: Great found family vibes, love a small town setting, and goat yoga sounds adorable!!
Official Elena Armas Book Rankings! (Lol... I'm not official at all, but I don't care.)
#1. The American Roommate Experiment
#2. The Spanish Love Deception
#3. The Long Game
Will I read the next Elena Armas? Probably. I loved TARE so much that I'm always chasing that feeling!
February 18, 2024
— 2.5 Stars ★
“You are all I can see,” he told me, his words falling right on my lips. “Even when I close my eyes, you’re all I see.”
The long game was really way too long for my liking. Elena should just write fake-dating or experimental-dating because small town romance is not her thing. I may be a bit lenient with my rating here but I did enjoyed the second half of the book when Adalyn was less irritating and annoying with her tantrums of a city girl.
Cameron and Maria are the only normal and likable characters in this book. Cameron is our usual grumpy guy. I liked how he was with Adalyn all sweet and caring. He even took her to stargazing because he remembered Adalyn looking at stars one time. And loved the way he called her darling and love sometimes!
Maria was the cutest! I liked how she was always there giving names to Cameron. I also wish we get her father's book.
The romance was fine. I don't know when they even started liking or when they fell in love it sort of just happened. In the first half of the book they were fighting and bickering over every small thing and in the second half they were obsessed with each other. I liked the second half because there was more relationship development and they actually tried to open up to each other about their past and insecurities and fears.
I liked the ending even though there was a little third act break up. I mean seriously why can't Elena just write a book without third act breakups. It was so useless.
I can't wait for Matthew and Josie's book tho. I heard it's fake-engagement!? So excited hopefully it's not like this one.
“You are all I can see,” he told me, his words falling right on my lips. “Even when I close my eyes, you’re all I see.”
The long game was really way too long for my liking. Elena should just write fake-dating or experimental-dating because small town romance is not her thing. I may be a bit lenient with my rating here but I did enjoyed the second half of the book when Adalyn was less irritating and annoying with her tantrums of a city girl.
Cameron and Maria are the only normal and likable characters in this book. Cameron is our usual grumpy guy. I liked how he was with Adalyn all sweet and caring. He even took her to stargazing because he remembered Adalyn looking at stars one time. And loved the way he called her darling and love sometimes!
“She’s not a prize to be won.” I took the elastic from her. “She’s… not a game. She’s more than something you win. She’s more than a loss. She’s everything that’s worth playing for. She’s everything in between.”
Maria was the cutest! I liked how she was always there giving names to Cameron. I also wish we get her father's book.
The romance was fine. I don't know when they even started liking or when they fell in love it sort of just happened. In the first half of the book they were fighting and bickering over every small thing and in the second half they were obsessed with each other. I liked the second half because there was more relationship development and they actually tried to open up to each other about their past and insecurities and fears.
I liked the ending even though there was a little third act break up. I mean seriously why can't Elena just write a book without third act breakups. It was so useless.
I can't wait for Matthew and Josie's book tho. I heard it's fake-engagement!? So excited hopefully it's not like this one.
“You are who you are. And I love that. Let those goddamn smiles be rare as long as they’re mine.”
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October 10, 2023DNF at 60%. I really wanted to love this, but it felt super rom-com and that's just not my thing. Not a lot was actually happening in the plot and I just didn't really care about the characters. There was so much potential with the plot and the setting, but nothing was really developed and everything felt so surface level. Since I knew this wasn't going to be higher than a 3 star, I decided to stop and move onto something more interesting.
August 14, 2023
The Long Game is in my top 2 of favorite books of this year. And it's not number two.
I was supposed to be buddy reading this book with Jess but I think it didn't work out lmaooo I'm still waiting for her to finish because I know she's going to love. BECAUSE YES, I feel like everyone will love it as soon as they read it.
If you love Meet Me Halfway by Lilian T. James or It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey, you're for sure going to love this one. It reminded me of MMH because of the love interest and how he is with the heroine. The heroine in The Long Game, Adalyn, has too much stuff on her plate, the weight is pushing on her shoulders and she feels so deeply alone. She has literally no one and you feel the sadness and aloneness whenever you're in her POV. That reminded me so much of Madison in MMH and if you love her, you're gonna adore Adalyn too. She's known as an ice queen but she just wants someone to see her and be there for her.
And then we have Cameron, the grumpy retired football (soccer) player who is living in this small town after putting down his goalkeeper gloves. No one knows why he retired or why he left LA, but now he's there and he wants a quiet, relaxing life. So when Ada moves next door, things get... not so quiet. And for sure, he's quite mean at first (reminded me a bit of Brendan from IHOS in that way), but then he quickly becomes so very soft for Adalyn. He sees her and cares for her, wants to protect her and spoil her rotten. He wants to be the safe place where she will land and he lets her know like IT'S SO CLEAR.
I don't want to give too much away because you have to experience this book on your own. But let me tell you that this romance is wonderful, so swoony, romantic af and deeply emotional. I cried way too much, mainly because of Adalyn and her story and you will find a conection with her instantly. And you will also adore the soccer aspect of the book, the girls, the team, the goats, the cats, the small town, the accidents and the romance. This book is filled to the brim with so many beautiful elements!!! And so I thank Elena Armas for blessing us with this story.
I was supposed to be buddy reading this book with Jess but I think it didn't work out lmaooo I'm still waiting for her to finish because I know she's going to love. BECAUSE YES, I feel like everyone will love it as soon as they read it.
If you love Meet Me Halfway by Lilian T. James or It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey, you're for sure going to love this one. It reminded me of MMH because of the love interest and how he is with the heroine. The heroine in The Long Game, Adalyn, has too much stuff on her plate, the weight is pushing on her shoulders and she feels so deeply alone. She has literally no one and you feel the sadness and aloneness whenever you're in her POV. That reminded me so much of Madison in MMH and if you love her, you're gonna adore Adalyn too. She's known as an ice queen but she just wants someone to see her and be there for her.
And then we have Cameron, the grumpy retired football (soccer) player who is living in this small town after putting down his goalkeeper gloves. No one knows why he retired or why he left LA, but now he's there and he wants a quiet, relaxing life. So when Ada moves next door, things get... not so quiet. And for sure, he's quite mean at first (reminded me a bit of Brendan from IHOS in that way), but then he quickly becomes so very soft for Adalyn. He sees her and cares for her, wants to protect her and spoil her rotten. He wants to be the safe place where she will land and he lets her know like IT'S SO CLEAR.
I don't want to give too much away because you have to experience this book on your own. But let me tell you that this romance is wonderful, so swoony, romantic af and deeply emotional. I cried way too much, mainly because of Adalyn and her story and you will find a conection with her instantly. And you will also adore the soccer aspect of the book, the girls, the team, the goats, the cats, the small town, the accidents and the romance. This book is filled to the brim with so many beautiful elements!!! And so I thank Elena Armas for blessing us with this story.
June 3, 2023
I feel like I read a completely different book from everyone else. There's so many great reviews for this and it just fell really short for me. I guess it's just a case of 'it's not for me'.
It was so hard to connect to the characters. Adalyn and Cameron were both really annoying and immature in the beginning and it didn't get much better as the story progressed. This is suppose to be Enemies to Lovers, but they really had no reason to be enemies. Yeah Adalyn kind of bumped into Cameron with her car in reverse...enough for him to be completely fine and unscathed. Then she puts the car in drive and bumps a tree....the car again is completely fine, not even a scratch...yet Adalyn gets knocked unconscious....like what??
Then they just fight over everything. Yeah Cameron could be mad about the car thing, but what could Adalyn really be mad about towards him? Why was she always starting and instigating the hating? Just because he was a pro soccer player and she doesn't like pro soccer players?
The writing was choppy. There was no chemistry or connection for me. It’s hard to like the book when you don’t like either of the main characters. It just left me feeling blah.
Thank you to Atria and NetGalley for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for my honest review.
It was so hard to connect to the characters. Adalyn and Cameron were both really annoying and immature in the beginning and it didn't get much better as the story progressed. This is suppose to be Enemies to Lovers, but they really had no reason to be enemies. Yeah Adalyn kind of bumped into Cameron with her car in reverse...enough for him to be completely fine and unscathed. Then she puts the car in drive and bumps a tree....the car again is completely fine, not even a scratch...yet Adalyn gets knocked unconscious....like what??
Then they just fight over everything. Yeah Cameron could be mad about the car thing, but what could Adalyn really be mad about towards him? Why was she always starting and instigating the hating? Just because he was a pro soccer player and she doesn't like pro soccer players?
The writing was choppy. There was no chemistry or connection for me. It’s hard to like the book when you don’t like either of the main characters. It just left me feeling blah.
Thank you to Atria and NetGalley for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for my honest review.
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