Let's be clear here...I could not possibly love Carson any more than I do! He's determined, hard-working, sexy, sweet, and swoonworthy! His determination to achieve his goals and make his family proud almost overshadows what his heart wants...Dallas. But, thankfully, this amazing guy gives in to the emotions pulling him towards the girl who's taboo, the one he shouldn't want, the one who could jeopardize his future...his coach's daughter. 
 I love forbidden romances and the rush of the push and pull in a story like that. The character's desires are sometimes overshadowed by the reality of the chasm between them but ultimately, there's very little that can keep them apart. The angst is very well done here but doesn't overpower the storyline. If anything, it's a way to nudge the characters forward, to help them understand and reach for their dreams. 
 I must admit that I'm not football savvy, however, this story made me appreciate the hard work and perseverance needed to live in that world...even at the college level. The players in this story pushed themselves beyond what their bodies could take, dared each other to be better, and, ultimately, lived and breathed this sport. That level of commitment to something is a very special thing. And, it makes me believe that a man who's willing to bet everything on his love of the sport will also be all in when it comes to devotion to the one he loves. In this case, that's certainly true. I loved Carson and Dallas and their chemistry. I rooted for them from the very first page and couldn't have been any happier with their story! 
 As you've come to expect from me, I'm reading this series out of order. I've already read and loved book 3 and, of course, my love for this one knows no bounds! So that makes it a no-brainer...I better go get book 2 and dive in. Thank you Ms. Cormack for a wonderful story, fantastic characters, and a romance my heart could really embrace! 
 This review was originally posted on The Book Hookup 
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