Reviews with content warning for Alcoholism - First Down: Special Edition

Reviews tagging 'Alcoholism'

First Down: Special Edition by Grace Reilly

8 reviews

ynaiita_5896's review against another edition

lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

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

3.0

🏈 While transfering to McKee University for his senior year, quarterback James Callahan promises himself and his father that unlike last time, he will not get distracted by anything that can cost his NFL future. However, he cannot play if he doesn't retake and pass the writing class he failed at his last college. Beckett Wood is desperate to get away from her cheating ex-boyfriend who is not leaving her alone. When James asks Beckett to be his tutor, she agrees in exchange for one thing — for him to pretend to be her boyfriend.

🏈 The premise of this book is engaging, and I was immediately drawn to the idea of a fake dating sports romance. James and Bex quickly emerge as endearing characters, and their chemistry practically leaps off the page. However, the fake dating trope, which initially intrigued me, felt underdeveloped and unconvincing throughout the novel. The story might have benefited from a slower burn, which could have better complemented the central relationship. Unfortunately, as the narrative progressed, the characters' behavior began to feel inconsistent and increasingly frustrating, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the story.

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drinkcoffee_read_repeat_'s review against another edition

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adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗜𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲...

💜 Fake Dating
👑 Cinderella Story
🏈 American Football
🏫 College Romance
🙅 Sworn Off Dating
🐕️ Golden Retriever MMC
🎭 Family Drama

𝙼𝚢 𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜:⁠
Isn't discovering a new author and falling in love with their writing extraordinary? That's what happened to me with Grace Reilly! The first book in her Beyond the Play series, First Down, hooked me from the beginning. It's a swoon-worthy fake dating romance that kept me glued to the pages. I was impressed with how Grace created a vivid college atmosphere in the story. It felt like I was transported right to the middle of the McKee University campus alongside the characters. The plotline was realistic, and the characters felt genuine. It was refreshing to read a college romance that didn't focus on unnecessary relationship angst and drama. The blossoming relationship between James and Bex was delightful; their banter was so much fun, and the spice was positively perfect! The side characters were also enjoyable, especially the rest of the Callahan family, and I'm excited to read their stories! First Down is a college sports romance you don't want to miss!

I did a hybrid read/listen to this fantastic book, and I have to say, it was an absolute delight to listen to! The audiobook narration by Kyle Adams and Caroline Sorunke was simply wonderful! They brought James and Beckett to life with their outstanding performances and made it an incredibly fun experience to listen to. I highly recommend this one if you're looking for a great audiobook!

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abicaro17's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

This book is ok. Like the meet cute was fun and the initial flirtation was interesting but after they got together it became clear they were going to stay that way despite every red flag possible. Even the climax was predictable af. Miscommunication and sugary sweet boring romance strikes again. I wanted to like it but honestly its fine but forgettable.

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vj_thompson's review against another edition

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challenging emotional funny hopeful sad medium-paced

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

5.0

My. Flipping. Heart. ❤️

Literally obsessed with this book, the writing, and the characters 🥹 I binge this book in one day. Personally, I think this was better than Icebreaker by Hannah Grace which is a college sports romance. First Down is a perfect mix of spice, drama, and fake dating romance!

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