Review: The End Run

Synopsis:

Formerly published in 2014 under the title, “A Kiss by the Book,” this book has been extensively revised from the original.

Tutoring college athletes at Southeastern State University is more than a job for Jenna Peterson; it’s a way to pay it forward after long-ago tragedy struck too close to home.

Golden boy, Zach Chamberlain, isn’t the first jock Jenna Peterson’s tutored with cover-boy good looks, and he won’t be the last. When Zach’s storybook life begins to unravel, Jenna discovers he’s more than just a gifted athlete with a pretty face. A sprig of mistletoe and a searing kiss pits the playmaker against the rule maker. When secrets are revealed and the game is on the line, will they follow the game plan, improvise, or make an end run around their hearts?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The End Run by Christy Hayes is a great continuation from the first book, Stalling for Time. I fell hard and fast for this cast of characters. The Chamberlain brothers each have their unique personalities that made this a must read series. Dylan put his life on back burner because he was crushing so hard on one girl. The girl his very own brother dated. But then Emily and Zach were becoming more distant with each other. Emily wanted to tell Zach sooner but then she was worried about losing Dylan in the process as well. She almost lost him too. But it’s still early and she can still lose her best friend/crush.

In this wonderful second installment, Zach is dealing with the fact that his girlfriend doesn’t love him. She dumped him for his brother. His brother defends and loves Emily. The pain is unbearable for Zach. Zach tries to move on but now, every girl knows he’s single and its overwhelming. His tutor, Jenna, is dealing with the fact that she likes Zach more than she should. But feels that she can’t be with him because she’s nothing like the beauty he once dated. Dylan is feeling sore because he misses the relationship he and Zach had. But he knows only time can heal. Or will it? Zach finds that Jenna is always there when he needs her most. His wounded heart starts to fall for her. However, he’s scared that she will bail on him too.

Christy Hayes has created a world of romance this is complicated and complex. Friends-to-lovers theme has worked once more, here. I love the funny banters between the couples and the heartfelt talks they have. The End Run is sweet, engaging, and wholesome. The family is supportive and strong in each characters’ life. I loved the connection they have with each other and their families. Jenna’s strong dislike of how Emily treated Zach was fun to follow. It helped Zach get out of his head and concentrate on other things. Like the way Jenna smells good and how much he likes being with her. Hope is on the horizon.

Overall, this contemporary romance was amazing. I enjoyed reading this book. Every character added to the tale. It felt more real than fictional. I laughed and cried along with the characters as scenes escalated out of control. There’s enough action, drama, and romance to keep readers full-attention and interest. I cannot wait for book three!