Reviews

Blind Side by Kandi Steiner

anabonfantte's review against another edition

4.0

giana + clay
typical strangers to lovers
football player + quiet girl

paigeantonacci's review against another edition

adventurous challenging lighthearted fast-paced

4.25

hetvixcv's review against another edition

3.0

I have mixed feelings about this. The book was good, I mean I at least didn’t dnf it, but still it wasn’t something I would rave about all day long. When I read a book, it consumes me, I can do nothing but read it and see where the story goes. Reading this, I kept getting distracted and I think that’s because I didn’t get the vibe.

I liked how the story developed, I could clearly see the chemistry between Clay and Giana, and omg how smitten Clay actually was, swooned. But at around 70% I lost interest and from there I just couldn’t wait for it to be over so that I could pick up something else. The conflict at the end, it just felt like the author didn’t put enough effort developing it. Also how easily Giana forgives Clay after the conflict, way way way unrealistic. I have no idea why this was so hyped but didn’t get through to me.

bookedbyemily's review against another edition

5.0

5★

“

rachelabel's review against another edition

emotional hopeful lighthearted sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

noelia_d's review against another edition

dnf @ 87%

the reason for the breakup was stupid and then you add a public love declaration and sadly all my interest was lost

ashleyyreadss's review against another edition

5.0

Obsessed with Giana and Clay, they are my babies

carina_cristino's review against another edition

adventurous emotional tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

emmanuellagladman's review against another edition

4.25

This is a heartfelt and captivating sports romance that delves into themes of love, personal growth, and overcoming emotional barriers. The novel beautifully captures the chemistry and dynamic between the main characters, which is undoubtedly one of its strongest aspects. The relationship between Clay and Giana, the central characters, is the beating heart of the story. What starts as a fake relationship to help Clay get over his ex and boost Giana’s confidence evolves into something deeply genuine and transformative for both of them. The progression of their relationship is realistic and engaging, filled with moments of vulnerability, humor, and undeniable chemistry. Clay’s protective nature contrasts with Giana’s more reserved, bookish persona, making their dynamic both compelling and relatable. As they navigate the challenges of their arrangement, they end up confronting their own fears and insecurities, leading to a beautifully balanced partnership. Steiner does an excellent job of portraying their gradual shift from friends to lovers, making the reader root for them every step of the way. The storyline  is well-paced and emotionally resonant. It’s more than just a typical sports romance; it’s a story of self-discovery and personal growth for both characters. Clay, a star football player, grapples with the pressures of his career and the pain of past heartbreak, while Giana, a media relations intern, struggles with her self-image and finding her place in the world. The fake relationship trope is handled with a refreshing sincerity. As Clay and Giana support each other through their individual struggles, the plot unfolds with a good mix of romantic tension, character development, and the thrills of the sports world. The subplot involving the pressures of Clay's football career adds depth to the story, illustrating the stakes of their personal and professional lives. It is a beautifully written, emotionally rich novel that explores the complexities of love and personal growth. The strength of the relationship between Clay and Giana is the highlight, with their journey from a fake relationship to a deep, genuine connection providing both heart and heat to the story. Kandi Steiner has crafted a compelling romance that is sure to captivate readers who appreciate well-developed characters and a satisfying, heartwarming storyline.

graceangelmama's review against another edition

3.0

This is really 2.5 stars for me. It’s rounded up because I need 1/2 stars Goodreads!! I didn’t hate it enough for it to be 2 stars, and I didn’t like it enough for it to qualify as my “just meh” 3 stars. So the teacher in me sees 2.5 and has to round it up