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The End Game
“Professional athletes are pillars of their respective communities. They are heroes in the eyes of boys and girls and are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that positively represents their community.�
The public loves a good scandal. Seeing someone fall from the pinnacle of success makes a great headline. No one knows that better than I do. What started out as a promising career in college football, spiraled into scandal and shame.
But being a hero is easier said then done. Especially when there are those who expected to see the great Brody Madden fail. I craved nothing except being the best—willing to do anything to prove them wrong. But I went too far, and I tried too hard, and it broke me.
“At the time of going to print, Jordan Elliott was unavailable for comment.�
I met Brody Madden in my senior year of college. An Australian native on an international scholarship, I was the female soccer sensation with stars in her eyes and no room for a hotshot wide receiver with a chip on his shoulder.
But a heart bursting with ambition and a driving fire to succeed isn’t made of stone. I became his strength, his obsession, and the greatest love of his life. Only I wasn’t there when he needed me most.
This is a story about love and a game that takes everything. Where the path to glory is paved with sacrifice. Where pressure makes you, or breaks you, and triumph is born in the ashes of failure. Where two people’s end game will change everything.
The public loves a good scandal. Seeing someone fall from the pinnacle of success makes a great headline. No one knows that better than I do. What started out as a promising career in college football, spiraled into scandal and shame.
But being a hero is easier said then done. Especially when there are those who expected to see the great Brody Madden fail. I craved nothing except being the best—willing to do anything to prove them wrong. But I went too far, and I tried too hard, and it broke me.
“At the time of going to print, Jordan Elliott was unavailable for comment.�
I met Brody Madden in my senior year of college. An Australian native on an international scholarship, I was the female soccer sensation with stars in her eyes and no room for a hotshot wide receiver with a chip on his shoulder.
But a heart bursting with ambition and a driving fire to succeed isn’t made of stone. I became his strength, his obsession, and the greatest love of his life. Only I wasn’t there when he needed me most.
This is a story about love and a game that takes everything. Where the path to glory is paved with sacrifice. Where pressure makes you, or breaks you, and triumph is born in the ashes of failure. Where two people’s end game will change everything.
405 pages, ebook
First published September 8, 2015
422 people are currently reading
5,561 people want to read
About the author
Kate McCarthy
13books2,325followersKate McCarthy grew up in a small town outside of Port Macquarie, Australia. Raised in a house just a short walk to the beach, Kate enjoyed the peaceful, relaxed atmosphere and friendships that come from being raised in a friendly, small town area.
She now resides in Brisbane, Australia, a city in the state of Queensland where she works as an accountant, along with a sideline wedding cake business and her writing.
She is married with two children, has two dogs and house in the suburbs, and a pile of friends and family dotted all over the country that help keep her sane.
When she’s not busy running after naughty kids, filthy dogs, crunching numbers, piping buttercream and writing books, you can find her curled up in bed in the early hours of the morning reading new books and re-reading old favourites. Her favourite books are the Black Dagger Brotherhood series by J.R. Ward in which she longs to eventually join the brotherhood and change her name to Phierce Mutha.
Please feel free to friend request Kate on ŷ :D
She now resides in Brisbane, Australia, a city in the state of Queensland where she works as an accountant, along with a sideline wedding cake business and her writing.
She is married with two children, has two dogs and house in the suburbs, and a pile of friends and family dotted all over the country that help keep her sane.
When she’s not busy running after naughty kids, filthy dogs, crunching numbers, piping buttercream and writing books, you can find her curled up in bed in the early hours of the morning reading new books and re-reading old favourites. Her favourite books are the Black Dagger Brotherhood series by J.R. Ward in which she longs to eventually join the brotherhood and change her name to Phierce Mutha.
Please feel free to friend request Kate on ŷ :D
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 693 reviews
August 30, 2015
4.25 Home STARS
I’m an avid reader of a sports romances. The hot football star falling for his tutor story line is one of my favorites. Kate McCarthy puts her own spin on this plot by adding to the mix the fact that the football bad boy’s love interest is also an athlete shooting for her own professional career.
Jordan Elliott has come to Texas all the way from Australia to complete her senior year of college and bring the team to victory. She fights being sidetracked by having to tutor the hottest guy on campus. Helping Brody with his Dylsexia and hurdling his upcoming tests. Will Jordan get Madden Fever?
”You took a huge risk travelling halfway around the world for something you believe in. You won’t take a risk on me?�
Jordan and Brody's relationship was well paced, and like this book well written. The author throws in a terrible family support system for Brody and insecurities that have him falling victim to pill popping.
”All I ever wanted to be is the best. Whatever it takes. I’ll do anything. That’s how I’ll ruin us, Jordan. How something so sweet survive a sentiment so dark?�
After graduation the couple assumes a long distance relationship while Brody is the hot new NFL rookie and Jordan is wowing the American soccer world. The pressure of being the best and his family dynamics has Brody facing a terrible fall.
”It’s my problem. If everyone left me alone, I could focus on fixing it.�
Brody and Jordan’s story has a lot of ups and downs with a bit of angst and some very tragic lessons to learn. I sometimes struggled with how Brody always insisted on doing/ fixing things himself instead of leaning on Jordan. Still, this was a bit on the long size (page number wise) but an enjoyable read nonetheless.
I’m left wondering if the author will entertain a Jaxon Draper book in the future? Pretty Please.
*Arc generously provided by Kate McCarthy for an honest review*
I’m an avid reader of a sports romances. The hot football star falling for his tutor story line is one of my favorites. Kate McCarthy puts her own spin on this plot by adding to the mix the fact that the football bad boy’s love interest is also an athlete shooting for her own professional career.
Jordan Elliott has come to Texas all the way from Australia to complete her senior year of college and bring the team to victory. She fights being sidetracked by having to tutor the hottest guy on campus. Helping Brody with his Dylsexia and hurdling his upcoming tests. Will Jordan get Madden Fever?
”You took a huge risk travelling halfway around the world for something you believe in. You won’t take a risk on me?�
Jordan and Brody's relationship was well paced, and like this book well written. The author throws in a terrible family support system for Brody and insecurities that have him falling victim to pill popping.
”All I ever wanted to be is the best. Whatever it takes. I’ll do anything. That’s how I’ll ruin us, Jordan. How something so sweet survive a sentiment so dark?�
After graduation the couple assumes a long distance relationship while Brody is the hot new NFL rookie and Jordan is wowing the American soccer world. The pressure of being the best and his family dynamics has Brody facing a terrible fall.
”It’s my problem. If everyone left me alone, I could focus on fixing it.�
Brody and Jordan’s story has a lot of ups and downs with a bit of angst and some very tragic lessons to learn. I sometimes struggled with how Brody always insisted on doing/ fixing things himself instead of leaning on Jordan. Still, this was a bit on the long size (page number wise) but an enjoyable read nonetheless.
I’m left wondering if the author will entertain a Jaxon Draper book in the future? Pretty Please.
*Arc generously provided by Kate McCarthy for an honest review*
September 10, 2015
NOW LIVEE!!!
AMZ US ~
AMZ UK ~
6+++ Blow me away Intense and EMOTIONAL Stars.
First of all I want to explain my star rating.
4 stars are a good read and 5 Stars means I loved, and if you follow my reviews they are rarely below that. That is purely because I am picky on what I read and I always read books dependant on what mood I am in.
That being said I don't give out 6 Stars freely. When I share a 6 it means it is worth the ride and boy was it worth the ride. I have been waiting for this book allll year, I was a bit anxious I wasn't going to enjoy it but I really shouldn't have worried. I apologise for my over the top fan girl over the book. Don't think of me badly kay??
Sigh OMG this is one PHENOMAL book. There are books that touch us and then there are books that SPEAK to us and this one was just that and more. I feel absolutely WRECKED after reading this none stop for the past four days, buttttt I will forever have these Characters inbedded into my heart and Kate will always be a go-to author for me.
So what's it about?
Brody is a College Footballer fighting to get to the top, he wants to be the BEST and only the BEST will do. He has a goal and its a straight line to the top. Nothing else has ever mattered to him. That is until he meets his match.
Jordan Elliot has transferred from Australia to play Soccer in the US, which is an AMAZING opportunity for her and she has a very similar plan. Both have the same goals except they are both very DIFFERENT. Two very different people with two very different backgrounds yet two people who have one goal in mind to Achieve.
Brody though is Dyslexic and because of that his grades are failing and in turn he then won't be able to do his dream and play professionally. And that is how Jordan and Brody meet because Brody needs tutoring that's when things get complicated.
As a reader I really feel like you need to read this going in FEET FIRST and not know the twists and turns that take a mist of your heart.
But I will say this...
Brody pushes and pushes Jordan and Fights for her and doesn't give up till he gets her, the first half of the book is a slow burn. Because of that you get much more of a deeper emotional involvement to their story as time goes.
BRODY #Sigh Brody.
What a beautiful and unique character he is. He loves unconditionally, he moulds himself to Jordan so that she has no choice but to let him in. How he takes care of her. How he wants what's best for Her. I loved the story and how it's slow developing but NEVER at any point was it slow. It grew bit by bit, slither by slither, words enveloped me and I was enveloped into their tender sensual beautiful and endearing soul shattering story, about life. About love, about loyalty, about forgiveness, about beginnings. About being FREE.
Brody has many an issue as time passes but not once did I not understand why he chose the path he went down with. I just love a broken hero and Brody was 110% that, his vulnerability shone through to me and he spoke to my heart. His relationship with Jordan but also his inner turmoil, he was soooo courageous.
This is a story about FIGHTING for what we care about, about what we need and what WE LOVE.
This is a story about taking chances. About making Sacrifices. And about how to cope with LIFE.
This story is a very much full impact story on emotions, but please don't get me wrong. This a LOVE story a very beautiful and unique one but there are moments of fun and laughter and joy as well .
Of Intense NEEDING.
And about FAMILY with the people that matter, about finding that ONE person to lean on. About Falling in LOVE. And ultimately about LIFE.
It was written in dual POV and because you have an American Footballer and an Australian Soccer player this was a good decision made by Kate because you again get a full effect of where they are, where they come from, read and get the Australian Slang and then here Brodys sturn arrogant personality and his broken heart, how he voiced his actions. His turmoil his insecurities and how he FELL IN LOVE with his ONE his HOME. How you hurt for Jordan and how you could feel her strength. In tears of joy and pain. But what spoke to me throughout the whole book was how passionately they LOVED each other HARD. And I read this genre because I love to FEEL and I love to go through the whole damn story right alongside them. No With Them.
This was a book about HOME above all. It span over a period of years and yes is long at 400 pages yet is wasn't too much for me, it never bothered me. I usually don't read long books I get bored yet I didn't want The End Game to end. I will take them with me now and hold them in my heart.
I hope you take the chance because in my eyes this is a very special read. A TrueLove Story.
If you LOVE music like myself I listened to while reading it!!
Enjoy...
ARC Gifted via the author in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and blog posts
AMZ US ~
AMZ UK ~
6+++ Blow me away Intense and EMOTIONAL Stars.
First of all I want to explain my star rating.
4 stars are a good read and 5 Stars means I loved, and if you follow my reviews they are rarely below that. That is purely because I am picky on what I read and I always read books dependant on what mood I am in.
That being said I don't give out 6 Stars freely. When I share a 6 it means it is worth the ride and boy was it worth the ride. I have been waiting for this book allll year, I was a bit anxious I wasn't going to enjoy it but I really shouldn't have worried. I apologise for my over the top fan girl over the book. Don't think of me badly kay??
Sigh OMG this is one PHENOMAL book. There are books that touch us and then there are books that SPEAK to us and this one was just that and more. I feel absolutely WRECKED after reading this none stop for the past four days, buttttt I will forever have these Characters inbedded into my heart and Kate will always be a go-to author for me.
So what's it about?
Brody is a College Footballer fighting to get to the top, he wants to be the BEST and only the BEST will do. He has a goal and its a straight line to the top. Nothing else has ever mattered to him. That is until he meets his match.
Jordan Elliot has transferred from Australia to play Soccer in the US, which is an AMAZING opportunity for her and she has a very similar plan. Both have the same goals except they are both very DIFFERENT. Two very different people with two very different backgrounds yet two people who have one goal in mind to Achieve.
Brody though is Dyslexic and because of that his grades are failing and in turn he then won't be able to do his dream and play professionally. And that is how Jordan and Brody meet because Brody needs tutoring that's when things get complicated.
As a reader I really feel like you need to read this going in FEET FIRST and not know the twists and turns that take a mist of your heart.
But I will say this...
Brody pushes and pushes Jordan and Fights for her and doesn't give up till he gets her, the first half of the book is a slow burn. Because of that you get much more of a deeper emotional involvement to their story as time goes.
BRODY #Sigh Brody.
What a beautiful and unique character he is. He loves unconditionally, he moulds himself to Jordan so that she has no choice but to let him in. How he takes care of her. How he wants what's best for Her. I loved the story and how it's slow developing but NEVER at any point was it slow. It grew bit by bit, slither by slither, words enveloped me and I was enveloped into their tender sensual beautiful and endearing soul shattering story, about life. About love, about loyalty, about forgiveness, about beginnings. About being FREE.
Brody has many an issue as time passes but not once did I not understand why he chose the path he went down with. I just love a broken hero and Brody was 110% that, his vulnerability shone through to me and he spoke to my heart. His relationship with Jordan but also his inner turmoil, he was soooo courageous.
This is a story about FIGHTING for what we care about, about what we need and what WE LOVE.
This is a story about taking chances. About making Sacrifices. And about how to cope with LIFE.
This story is a very much full impact story on emotions, but please don't get me wrong. This a LOVE story a very beautiful and unique one but there are moments of fun and laughter and joy as well .
Of Intense NEEDING.
And about FAMILY with the people that matter, about finding that ONE person to lean on. About Falling in LOVE. And ultimately about LIFE.
It was written in dual POV and because you have an American Footballer and an Australian Soccer player this was a good decision made by Kate because you again get a full effect of where they are, where they come from, read and get the Australian Slang and then here Brodys sturn arrogant personality and his broken heart, how he voiced his actions. His turmoil his insecurities and how he FELL IN LOVE with his ONE his HOME. How you hurt for Jordan and how you could feel her strength. In tears of joy and pain. But what spoke to me throughout the whole book was how passionately they LOVED each other HARD. And I read this genre because I love to FEEL and I love to go through the whole damn story right alongside them. No With Them.
This was a book about HOME above all. It span over a period of years and yes is long at 400 pages yet is wasn't too much for me, it never bothered me. I usually don't read long books I get bored yet I didn't want The End Game to end. I will take them with me now and hold them in my heart.
I hope you take the chance because in my eyes this is a very special read. A TrueLove Story.
If you LOVE music like myself I listened to while reading it!!
Enjoy...
ARC Gifted via the author in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and blog posts
December 26, 2015
I liked it but didn't loved it as much as I hoped for.
I think my expectations were to high. Damn it.
I think my expectations were to high. Damn it.
September 10, 2015
★★� 3 Stars ★★�
I think this was a case of 'It's not you, it's me', I really wanted to like this one more, but unfortunately it was just an OK read for me.
I didn't fully connect to either character and therefore I didn't really feel the emotional pain that most people who have read this book felt. Jordan came off as a bit brash, and Brody switched between tortured and plain old grumpy asshole.
Still, if you are looking for a new adult, sports romance featuring a spunky female Australian soccer player and a hot Texan Football player then please do give this book a go.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
I think this was a case of 'It's not you, it's me', I really wanted to like this one more, but unfortunately it was just an OK read for me.
I didn't fully connect to either character and therefore I didn't really feel the emotional pain that most people who have read this book felt. Jordan came off as a bit brash, and Brody switched between tortured and plain old grumpy asshole.
Still, if you are looking for a new adult, sports romance featuring a spunky female Australian soccer player and a hot Texan Football player then please do give this book a go.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
September 7, 2015
� I received an ARC via Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! �
*Woot! Madden Fever is REAL ladies!!*
“If you can’t handle the game, then get the hell off the field.�
My first ever Kate McCarthy read, and man, was it an absolute winner! I rarely ever give out 5-star to books I take up for review, but, this one was so well deserving of it!
In many NA-CR sports reads I come across, it always seems to follow the same old formula of over the top and unrealistic characters, situations, hasty paced romances, and drama-lama land. But, this one was different.
While there was an element of angst and drama in the book, it doesn’t infuriate, annoy, or make you roll your eyes. It’s pretty much the trials that every hopeful athlete goes through while trying to make it in the big leagues; and the joys and dysfunctions that occur in their love and family lives, as well as, careers.
The End Game is a wonderful blend of international pandemonium of bringing an Aussie soccer star to America on scholarship and her journey to superstardom while falling in love with local campus heartthrob and football sensation who is following a similar path.
I found both Jordan and Brody to be beacons of hope, morality, sacrifice, and integrity. Both have moderately come fom broken households and are trying to break the mold by making a new life for themselves while trying to do the right thing.
They are hungry, ambitious, and oh so jaded in many ways. .. And yet, complete each other irrevocably and entirely.
For Brody, being a high profiled politician’s son is not an easy feat. Not when everyone’s looking at you, speculating about you, and your parents disapprove of everything that you do. Not even, when you harbor a discerning secret that could prove detrimental to you and your family’s pristine image.
Brody lives and breathes football, but is it enough to ensure a life in the NFL? Will he be able to step up to the plate of the game he loves so much?
Or will he choke under the pressure?
And with a certain Aussie spitfire now at the center of his mind’s eye, who makes him question everything he’s ever known and or wanted, is football really his one true calling? And will he able to find acceptance in himself and his own skin?
As for Jordan Elliott, *and man do I love her frankness and realist personality*, she has one goal and one goal only--- to focus on her game to secure a spot in the professionals.
But when she meets the irresistible and persistent Brody Madden, who woes her at every corner, can she fit love in the equation while being in a foreign country?
After all, becoming successful is one thing. Getting there is half the struggle…But staying there and the paths you take along the way are just as crucial.
Can these two talented, budding stars rise above obscurities and expectations, and take a shot at fame while holding onto their romance? How far will they go to make their dreams come true?
Or will past obscurities, fallings from grace, and scandals rock them into the sidelines?
Read and you will be find out!!
Great, great cherry popper *for me* into the world of Kate McCarthy!! I can’t wait for more from this talented author!!
*Woot! Madden Fever is REAL ladies!!*
“If you can’t handle the game, then get the hell off the field.�
My first ever Kate McCarthy read, and man, was it an absolute winner! I rarely ever give out 5-star to books I take up for review, but, this one was so well deserving of it!
In many NA-CR sports reads I come across, it always seems to follow the same old formula of over the top and unrealistic characters, situations, hasty paced romances, and drama-lama land. But, this one was different.
While there was an element of angst and drama in the book, it doesn’t infuriate, annoy, or make you roll your eyes. It’s pretty much the trials that every hopeful athlete goes through while trying to make it in the big leagues; and the joys and dysfunctions that occur in their love and family lives, as well as, careers.
The End Game is a wonderful blend of international pandemonium of bringing an Aussie soccer star to America on scholarship and her journey to superstardom while falling in love with local campus heartthrob and football sensation who is following a similar path.
I found both Jordan and Brody to be beacons of hope, morality, sacrifice, and integrity. Both have moderately come fom broken households and are trying to break the mold by making a new life for themselves while trying to do the right thing.
They are hungry, ambitious, and oh so jaded in many ways. .. And yet, complete each other irrevocably and entirely.
For Brody, being a high profiled politician’s son is not an easy feat. Not when everyone’s looking at you, speculating about you, and your parents disapprove of everything that you do. Not even, when you harbor a discerning secret that could prove detrimental to you and your family’s pristine image.
Brody lives and breathes football, but is it enough to ensure a life in the NFL? Will he be able to step up to the plate of the game he loves so much?
Or will he choke under the pressure?
And with a certain Aussie spitfire now at the center of his mind’s eye, who makes him question everything he’s ever known and or wanted, is football really his one true calling? And will he able to find acceptance in himself and his own skin?
As for Jordan Elliott, *and man do I love her frankness and realist personality*, she has one goal and one goal only--- to focus on her game to secure a spot in the professionals.
But when she meets the irresistible and persistent Brody Madden, who woes her at every corner, can she fit love in the equation while being in a foreign country?
After all, becoming successful is one thing. Getting there is half the struggle…But staying there and the paths you take along the way are just as crucial.
Can these two talented, budding stars rise above obscurities and expectations, and take a shot at fame while holding onto their romance? How far will they go to make their dreams come true?
Or will past obscurities, fallings from grace, and scandals rock them into the sidelines?
Read and you will be find out!!
Great, great cherry popper *for me* into the world of Kate McCarthy!! I can’t wait for more from this talented author!!
September 24, 2015
This was my first time reading Kate McCarthy and I really enjoyed this! What's better than a blonde soccer bomb from down under and an all American football star falling in love? Surviving one another and staying love!
The End Game was a pretty fabulous "sports romance." I am used to reading stories with a hotshot sports hero falling for the girl/guy next door, but this book brings two up and coming athletes destined for professional success. They both seem to have their futures laid out if they continue their focus. Jordan's path is derailed when she takes on the tutelage of a sexy, sassy, and dyslexic Brody. This in itself is a pressure cooker of a situation, but add in attraction and first time want for more and the story takes off!
My favorite thing about this read was the internal struggle of both characters. With Dual POV's there is great insight into the self assessment and want to be better, to the outside pressure to perform 100% at all times, and to the conflict of the heart and the mind. Neither Jordan or Brody had easy pasts, and their present and future together would not be a destined as there professional lives.
Through a lot of emotional breaks and angst filled moments of heartbreak, this author gave a well written love story. While I struggled a bit with Brody and his constant let downs, I truly felt for Jordan. I loved how strong she was and to be honest, I loved that she never gave up, but never got walked on either! For a well paced romance with tears, laughs and decent heat, The End Game will deliver!
The End Game was a pretty fabulous "sports romance." I am used to reading stories with a hotshot sports hero falling for the girl/guy next door, but this book brings two up and coming athletes destined for professional success. They both seem to have their futures laid out if they continue their focus. Jordan's path is derailed when she takes on the tutelage of a sexy, sassy, and dyslexic Brody. This in itself is a pressure cooker of a situation, but add in attraction and first time want for more and the story takes off!
My favorite thing about this read was the internal struggle of both characters. With Dual POV's there is great insight into the self assessment and want to be better, to the outside pressure to perform 100% at all times, and to the conflict of the heart and the mind. Neither Jordan or Brody had easy pasts, and their present and future together would not be a destined as there professional lives.
Through a lot of emotional breaks and angst filled moments of heartbreak, this author gave a well written love story. While I struggled a bit with Brody and his constant let downs, I truly felt for Jordan. I loved how strong she was and to be honest, I loved that she never gave up, but never got walked on either! For a well paced romance with tears, laughs and decent heat, The End Game will deliver!
December 18, 2015
•� REVIEW NOW POSTED •�
**Beta copy gifted from author in exchange for an honest review**
Oh, I absolutely looooooved this book!!!!!*swoon* worthy hero alert!!
This is a college football romance like no other. The End Game brought out more emotion than any other sports romance I have ever read. It goes deeper than the dramas of college students on campus. It’s raw, it’s emotional, it’s heart-wrenching but it’s also very funny and sweet. It touches on a topic I (personally) have never read about before and to be inside the heads of characters while they try and deal with the pressures of their personal lives, school, stardom and success in their fields was a wonderful ride, and Kate McCarthy nailed every part of it.
“…that’s what happens when your need to be the best eclipses all else. Sacrifices are made, and those you love are always the first to suffer.�
Kate writes in a dual POV, but we begin with Jordan Elliott, who has made the huge move from Australia to Texas, USA to take on a soccer scholarship for her senior year. Her hopes and dreams of becoming an international soccer player are right at her finger tips. All she needs to do is put her head down, work and train hard and be selected in the Australian team for the upcoming World Cup Championship. And as if Jordan didn’t have enough on her plate, she is asked by her professor if she could help a struggling student in her not-so-free time.
Brody Madden is a rising football star hero. A ‘god� to many. Invincible. But Brody is battling with the pressures of school, his controlling and unforgiving father with a public image that needs to be kept perfect, and the whole of Texas wanting nothing more than for him to be the very best� But how far will he go to make everyone happy? Will his relationship with Jordan be something that will bring him the happiness he deserves or the reason he loses it all?
“All I’ve ever wanted is to be the best. Whatever it takes. I’ll do anything. That’s how I’ll ruin us, Jordan. How can something so sweet survive a sentiment so dark?�
*sigh*
Jordan is one of my favourite heroines. She’s caring, loyal and unbelievably sweet but also showed a witty side that meant for some really funny scenes!
Like this one�
I toss my phone back on the seat just as a small box comes flying out a third floor window and lands right at my feet. Shading my eyes, I glance up and see the guy from the SUV waving down at me.
ٴǰ!� he yells. “My aim was off!�
My eyes fell back to the box. It’s a packet of Durex flavored condoms. I reach down and pick it up. The front features a banana, apple, sliced orange and a strawberry, with a tagline that reads fruity flavors for extra fun. I give an audible snort because nothing spells out sexy times better than fruit salad.
LOL!!
There is so much I love about Brody. He is our broken hero. He loves the game of football more than anything in the world and the emotional journey we are taken on is one hell of a ride.
“Out there on the field, the game is everything. It builds you up, breaks you down, and bleeds you dry. But I fucking love it. It’s the only place I’m free�
These two are just perfect together. They’re each others yin and yang but they just need to figure out this thing called life, and be there to support one another instead of pulling away at that something that is so perfect for the both of them.
I absolutely loved the writing in this book! I was smiling, laughing, crying and chuckling from the very first page. Brody and Jordan have incredible chemistry. I loved how the sexual tension was always there, but Jordan kept Brody at arms length for a while. There was no jumping into bed right away. It built nicely, letting you enjoy every emotion and also allowed you to get to know the characters both together, and apart.
I just want to make a special mention of the secondary characters in this book. I freaking loved them!! Kate was able to create a whole bunch of supporting characters to balance out this book. It was so fun to go from Jordan’s circle, to the boys in Brody’s life, hearing their banter, practical jokes and support they have for Brody and Jordan was just a real pleasure to experience. There is no doubt that I love a great couple in a book, but it really does complete the package when their friends are people I want to get to know also. Kate did a great job of filling the roles of those characters.
I’m definitely experiencing an epic book hang over!! Books like these are the reason I love to read. They are forever sketched into your heart, making you fall in love over and over again. Bringing out some raw emotion that only an epic love can do. Whether it’s a story that spans a lifetime, or one of two college aged kids falling in love, The End Game will go down as one of those love stories that shifted something in me at the final page. A story that will be there, reminding me of the challenges in life, and the reasons why we pick ourselves back up from rock bottom and keep on going.
Rating: 5.5 Stars!! � Standalone. College/Sports Romance.
Release Date: Sep 8.
For more from The Romance Room:
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**Beta copy gifted from author in exchange for an honest review**
Oh, I absolutely looooooved this book!!!!!*swoon* worthy hero alert!!
This is a college football romance like no other. The End Game brought out more emotion than any other sports romance I have ever read. It goes deeper than the dramas of college students on campus. It’s raw, it’s emotional, it’s heart-wrenching but it’s also very funny and sweet. It touches on a topic I (personally) have never read about before and to be inside the heads of characters while they try and deal with the pressures of their personal lives, school, stardom and success in their fields was a wonderful ride, and Kate McCarthy nailed every part of it.
“…that’s what happens when your need to be the best eclipses all else. Sacrifices are made, and those you love are always the first to suffer.�
Kate writes in a dual POV, but we begin with Jordan Elliott, who has made the huge move from Australia to Texas, USA to take on a soccer scholarship for her senior year. Her hopes and dreams of becoming an international soccer player are right at her finger tips. All she needs to do is put her head down, work and train hard and be selected in the Australian team for the upcoming World Cup Championship. And as if Jordan didn’t have enough on her plate, she is asked by her professor if she could help a struggling student in her not-so-free time.
Brody Madden is a rising football star hero. A ‘god� to many. Invincible. But Brody is battling with the pressures of school, his controlling and unforgiving father with a public image that needs to be kept perfect, and the whole of Texas wanting nothing more than for him to be the very best� But how far will he go to make everyone happy? Will his relationship with Jordan be something that will bring him the happiness he deserves or the reason he loses it all?
“All I’ve ever wanted is to be the best. Whatever it takes. I’ll do anything. That’s how I’ll ruin us, Jordan. How can something so sweet survive a sentiment so dark?�
*sigh*
Jordan is one of my favourite heroines. She’s caring, loyal and unbelievably sweet but also showed a witty side that meant for some really funny scenes!
Like this one�
I toss my phone back on the seat just as a small box comes flying out a third floor window and lands right at my feet. Shading my eyes, I glance up and see the guy from the SUV waving down at me.
ٴǰ!� he yells. “My aim was off!�
My eyes fell back to the box. It’s a packet of Durex flavored condoms. I reach down and pick it up. The front features a banana, apple, sliced orange and a strawberry, with a tagline that reads fruity flavors for extra fun. I give an audible snort because nothing spells out sexy times better than fruit salad.
LOL!!
There is so much I love about Brody. He is our broken hero. He loves the game of football more than anything in the world and the emotional journey we are taken on is one hell of a ride.
“Out there on the field, the game is everything. It builds you up, breaks you down, and bleeds you dry. But I fucking love it. It’s the only place I’m free�
These two are just perfect together. They’re each others yin and yang but they just need to figure out this thing called life, and be there to support one another instead of pulling away at that something that is so perfect for the both of them.
I absolutely loved the writing in this book! I was smiling, laughing, crying and chuckling from the very first page. Brody and Jordan have incredible chemistry. I loved how the sexual tension was always there, but Jordan kept Brody at arms length for a while. There was no jumping into bed right away. It built nicely, letting you enjoy every emotion and also allowed you to get to know the characters both together, and apart.
I just want to make a special mention of the secondary characters in this book. I freaking loved them!! Kate was able to create a whole bunch of supporting characters to balance out this book. It was so fun to go from Jordan’s circle, to the boys in Brody’s life, hearing their banter, practical jokes and support they have for Brody and Jordan was just a real pleasure to experience. There is no doubt that I love a great couple in a book, but it really does complete the package when their friends are people I want to get to know also. Kate did a great job of filling the roles of those characters.
I’m definitely experiencing an epic book hang over!! Books like these are the reason I love to read. They are forever sketched into your heart, making you fall in love over and over again. Bringing out some raw emotion that only an epic love can do. Whether it’s a story that spans a lifetime, or one of two college aged kids falling in love, The End Game will go down as one of those love stories that shifted something in me at the final page. A story that will be there, reminding me of the challenges in life, and the reasons why we pick ourselves back up from rock bottom and keep on going.
Rating: 5.5 Stars!! � Standalone. College/Sports Romance.
Release Date: Sep 8.
For more from The Romance Room:
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Want to read
September 15, 2015I'M SO EXCITED FOR THIS BOOK <3 <3 <3
ARC provided for an honest review
ARC provided for an honest review
September 6, 2015
Umm…yeah. I just finished this book and am speechless. It blew me away! It was so real and raw and gritty and intense. I expected a fun, lighthearted sports romance. Instead, I got so much more and it was absolutely amazing!
Brody Madden lives, eats, and breathes football. It is all he has ever been good at and all he wants to do. He will do whatever is necessary to be the best.
“I’m on a girl hiatus. That means no dick near, on, or in, any girl’s pussy. It’s supposed to stop me from being distracted and keep me focused on football, but I’m a healthy, horny, twenty-one-year-old male. That pretty much means I’m a walking boner. So in actual fact, this break is going to kill me instead. Or blister my right hand.�
Jordan Elliott is a soccer star. She receives an international sports scholarship and comes from Australia to Houston to play for the college team. She left her only family, a twin brother, Nicky to follow her dream.
Jordan ends up as Brody’s tutor, but it has to be kept a secret so they two pretend they are dating to explain all the time they are spending together. However, the chemistry between them is unstoppable and soon the charade becomes real.
“I’m not falling for Jordan. I’m plummeting hard and fast, and the feeling is indescribable.�
They fall hard and fast and can’t imagine a life without the other in it.
“Home’s not a place where you live. It’s a feeling.�
This story goes on to tell the life of two athletes trying to be the best and chase their dreams while creating a life together. It was sexy, funny, and at times, downright heartbreaking. It was so much more than just love. It was life and hope and despair. It was believing in yourself above everything else.
I really can’t say more other than READ THIS BOOK! You will not be disappointed, but you will ugly cry and it will be worth every tissue you use! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
~~~
I love sports romance. The joy and pain of finding love (and sometimes losing it) pairs well with the competitive nature of athletes and their ‘never say die� attitudes. The humor that you can find in a locker room cushions the (often heart-breaking) highs and lows of striving to be the best. The thrill of winning is never more present than when a jock doesn't just win the game, but also the girl. Yes, there truly such scope for emotion in sports romance, and never is that more apparent than in The End Game. It is a prime example of everything wonderful about the genre.
The Great Brody Madden is expected to be a sensation, a star, to go far and achieve it all. But the pressure to do so is stifling. Unbearable.
International scholarship recipient, Jordan Elliott is determined to make all her hard work—and the sacrifices of those she loves—pay-off. No distractions, no time for anything but success.
Their paths cross and their futures merge, the love they share proving to be a force too strong to resist. But when the pressure to be the best gets to be too much, and scandal hits, the greatest test of all isn't on the field� It's in the heart.
I was somewhat reluctant to read The End Game, but not for the reasons you might think. What I've read of Kate McCarthy’s work in the past has blown me away, and that, combined with the fact I've been anticipating this book for quite some time, meant I had high expectations. And a fear of what Ms. McCarthy’s always emotionally taxing writing would do to me. Simply put, I was afraid I wouldn't love it, or that it would tear me apart.
I shouldn't have worried. Because I did love it. And although it didn't quite tear me apart, it came close. Close enough for me to need a handful of tissues, a few deep breaths and a big hug.
The End Game was a beautifully written, haunting tale of the struggle to rise above the rest, to be the best, to succeed where others have failed. There's a message in this book; in between the sparkling humor, the sexy sizzle and the heartfelt love, this book shows you that believing in yourself is the most important thing of all—and sometimes, the hardest.
Ms McCarthy has penned a book that will make you think and feel. It certainly did me. I was captivated by Brody and Jordan, and by the very raw relationship they shared. It was angsty, spontaneous, electric and explosive. It was sometimes practically perfect and sometimes borderline poisonous, but it was always right. And it was complemented by their friendships—I loved Jax, Eddie, and Leah and Hayden—which served to make their world seem so much bigger and more real.
I do indeed love sports romances when they're written like this—packed with an emotional punch, with an ending that was perfect for the roller-coaster that came before it, and written by an author I know has the power to sweep me off my feet. ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
Brody Madden lives, eats, and breathes football. It is all he has ever been good at and all he wants to do. He will do whatever is necessary to be the best.
“I’m on a girl hiatus. That means no dick near, on, or in, any girl’s pussy. It’s supposed to stop me from being distracted and keep me focused on football, but I’m a healthy, horny, twenty-one-year-old male. That pretty much means I’m a walking boner. So in actual fact, this break is going to kill me instead. Or blister my right hand.�
Jordan Elliott is a soccer star. She receives an international sports scholarship and comes from Australia to Houston to play for the college team. She left her only family, a twin brother, Nicky to follow her dream.
Jordan ends up as Brody’s tutor, but it has to be kept a secret so they two pretend they are dating to explain all the time they are spending together. However, the chemistry between them is unstoppable and soon the charade becomes real.
“I’m not falling for Jordan. I’m plummeting hard and fast, and the feeling is indescribable.�
They fall hard and fast and can’t imagine a life without the other in it.
“Home’s not a place where you live. It’s a feeling.�
This story goes on to tell the life of two athletes trying to be the best and chase their dreams while creating a life together. It was sexy, funny, and at times, downright heartbreaking. It was so much more than just love. It was life and hope and despair. It was believing in yourself above everything else.
I really can’t say more other than READ THIS BOOK! You will not be disappointed, but you will ugly cry and it will be worth every tissue you use! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
~~~
I love sports romance. The joy and pain of finding love (and sometimes losing it) pairs well with the competitive nature of athletes and their ‘never say die� attitudes. The humor that you can find in a locker room cushions the (often heart-breaking) highs and lows of striving to be the best. The thrill of winning is never more present than when a jock doesn't just win the game, but also the girl. Yes, there truly such scope for emotion in sports romance, and never is that more apparent than in The End Game. It is a prime example of everything wonderful about the genre.
The Great Brody Madden is expected to be a sensation, a star, to go far and achieve it all. But the pressure to do so is stifling. Unbearable.
International scholarship recipient, Jordan Elliott is determined to make all her hard work—and the sacrifices of those she loves—pay-off. No distractions, no time for anything but success.
Their paths cross and their futures merge, the love they share proving to be a force too strong to resist. But when the pressure to be the best gets to be too much, and scandal hits, the greatest test of all isn't on the field� It's in the heart.
I was somewhat reluctant to read The End Game, but not for the reasons you might think. What I've read of Kate McCarthy’s work in the past has blown me away, and that, combined with the fact I've been anticipating this book for quite some time, meant I had high expectations. And a fear of what Ms. McCarthy’s always emotionally taxing writing would do to me. Simply put, I was afraid I wouldn't love it, or that it would tear me apart.
I shouldn't have worried. Because I did love it. And although it didn't quite tear me apart, it came close. Close enough for me to need a handful of tissues, a few deep breaths and a big hug.
The End Game was a beautifully written, haunting tale of the struggle to rise above the rest, to be the best, to succeed where others have failed. There's a message in this book; in between the sparkling humor, the sexy sizzle and the heartfelt love, this book shows you that believing in yourself is the most important thing of all—and sometimes, the hardest.
Ms McCarthy has penned a book that will make you think and feel. It certainly did me. I was captivated by Brody and Jordan, and by the very raw relationship they shared. It was angsty, spontaneous, electric and explosive. It was sometimes practically perfect and sometimes borderline poisonous, but it was always right. And it was complemented by their friendships—I loved Jax, Eddie, and Leah and Hayden—which served to make their world seem so much bigger and more real.
I do indeed love sports romances when they're written like this—packed with an emotional punch, with an ending that was perfect for the roller-coaster that came before it, and written by an author I know has the power to sweep me off my feet. ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
September 9, 2015
TOUCHDOWN + EXTRA POINTS ON THE SCOREBOARD!
After reading several football related romances over the past couple weeks, I do believe that I’ve found my favorite for this year. The End Game is definitely a winner and will be difficult to beat. Brody, the campus heart throb, is a tortured football hero, who meets Jordan, who is assigned as his tutor and the only girl on campus who doesn’t immediately fall under his spell. She just happens to be a star in her own right � that being a very talented soccer player. You'll absolutely love both of them. Their story is uniquely challenging and satisfying.
Kate McCarthy does an outstanding job in creating these characters. They come to life on the pages and had me glued to my chair breathlessly reading every word. I loved the depth of emotions between Jordan and Brody. Theirs was a complex and difficult road to travel. But the building romance between them was sparkling with magic � touching and meaningful every step of the way � even when burdened with grief, hurt and sadness that was almost too heavy to carry.
Not to slight the positives, there is also an evenly balanced share of happiness, humor and witty banter that fills this one with an unforgettable sweetness that comes across strong and exciting. There is also a marvelous cast of secondary characters that adds so much value to this story. In addition, you’ll find plenty of equally fun-to-read sports tidbits while watching our couple as they compete on their individual field of sport. There’s plenty of everything that a great and memorable sports-themed romance requires.
A fantastic Epilogue that includes a tender and unforgettable view of our hero and heroine five years into their happily-ever-after left me more than pleased and ever so grateful. I’m almost certain that it will delight and thrill others as well.
If you're a fan of sports-themed romances, you most definitely won't want to miss this one. Heck, even if you aren't into sports, this is still a love story you won't want to miss. All the way around, The End Game is a great read.
Note: This little bundle of awesomeness is only 99-cents � so don’t fumble � make a goal now & one-click!
After reading several football related romances over the past couple weeks, I do believe that I’ve found my favorite for this year. The End Game is definitely a winner and will be difficult to beat. Brody, the campus heart throb, is a tortured football hero, who meets Jordan, who is assigned as his tutor and the only girl on campus who doesn’t immediately fall under his spell. She just happens to be a star in her own right � that being a very talented soccer player. You'll absolutely love both of them. Their story is uniquely challenging and satisfying.
Kate McCarthy does an outstanding job in creating these characters. They come to life on the pages and had me glued to my chair breathlessly reading every word. I loved the depth of emotions between Jordan and Brody. Theirs was a complex and difficult road to travel. But the building romance between them was sparkling with magic � touching and meaningful every step of the way � even when burdened with grief, hurt and sadness that was almost too heavy to carry.
Not to slight the positives, there is also an evenly balanced share of happiness, humor and witty banter that fills this one with an unforgettable sweetness that comes across strong and exciting. There is also a marvelous cast of secondary characters that adds so much value to this story. In addition, you’ll find plenty of equally fun-to-read sports tidbits while watching our couple as they compete on their individual field of sport. There’s plenty of everything that a great and memorable sports-themed romance requires.
A fantastic Epilogue that includes a tender and unforgettable view of our hero and heroine five years into their happily-ever-after left me more than pleased and ever so grateful. I’m almost certain that it will delight and thrill others as well.
If you're a fan of sports-themed romances, you most definitely won't want to miss this one. Heck, even if you aren't into sports, this is still a love story you won't want to miss. All the way around, The End Game is a great read.
Note: This little bundle of awesomeness is only 99-cents � so don’t fumble � make a goal now & one-click!
September 10, 2015
“I’m not letting you go. It’s you and me, and we’ll be strong together, okay?�
To refer to this book as a ‘sports romance� would be an injustice. Sure, the story centres round a female soccer player and a football player and their goals to reach the peak of their game but that’s secondary to the personal and emotional struggles they face in themselves and their love.
We assumed The End Game to be a sweet sports themed romance and were quite unprepared for the depth of story and sheer gut wrenching emotions we were to experience as Jordan and Brody’s journey unfolded. Really, we should have known Kate McCarthy would deliver a hit to the heart, after all, her writing always feels so personal, so real. In this case as she painstakingly spent time developing her characters, building their relationship and constructing her story, she afforded us the luxury of getting to really know the characters, to the point where their struggles felt almost personal. Brody and Jordan owned us as we lived and breathed every moment of triumph, failure, happiness and hurt.
“Jordan�.we all need that one person who sees us. The one person who gives it to us straight and tells us how it is. We need that one person who isn’t afraid to get in our face and scream back. That person who won’t ever hesitate to call you on your shit because they love you. That one person who’ll be there for you no matter what. You’re that person.�
The End Game is indeed a searing love story but it was also a life story, in essence the successes and failures and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a story of victory over adversity, of believing in yourself and trusting in the one person who knows your flaws and loves you. Because of them and in spite of them. This story touched our hearts!
Jordan and Brody’s story was as sad as it was happy, as tragic as it was joyful as hopeless as it was hopeful and we shed many tears as Kate McCarthy’s exquisite words flowed from the pages. We FELT it all. Brody and Jordan shared a love that would encounter what seemed insurmountable obstacles but it was a love that was worth fighting for and it was a battle that would be fiercely fought.
‘I’m not the strong one here. Jordan is. She always has been. Jordan is like the strongest oak in the forest. Nothing can fell her, yet here she is, half-naked in my arms and falling apart. It’s breaking my heart.�
Brody was beautiful yet damaged character. Outwardly he seemed to have it all, inwardly he was plagued by self-loathing and self-doubt and he broke our hearts many a time. What a beautiful soul he was, he found his way deep into our hearts that’s for sure.
“I need to believe in something.�
“Then believe in yourself.�
Jordan was an outstanding heroine. This plucky young lady, so loyal and loving showed a maturity beyond her years as she strove to achieve success in love and her career whilst being the strength Brody needed.
“Out there on the field, the game is everything. It builds you up, breaks you down, and it bleeds you dry. But I love it. It’s the only place I’m free.�
Together Jordan and Brody were a force to be reckoned with. A desire for love, a drive to succeed a will to make it all work…but at what cost?
“Home’s not a place where you live. It’s a feeling. You can be anywhere, Jordan. Home will follow you if you follow your heart.�
**Reviewed from an ARC Copy provided by the author, with thanks.**
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May 15, 2016
This book was so...omg I don't even have words! It was so raw and heartbreaking and yet beautiful and inspiring all at the same time. I'm completely obsessed with it and it's characters. ❤️
Oh god I feel a hangover already blossoming...
Oh god I feel a hangover already blossoming...
September 9, 2015
“I’m not letting you go. It’s you and me, and we’ll be strong together, okay?�
To refer to this book as a ‘sports romance� would be an injustice. Sure, the story centres round a female soccer player and a football player and their goals to reach the peak of their game but that’s secondary to the personal and emotional struggles they face in themselves and their love.
We assumed The End Game to be a sweet sports themed romance and were quite unprepared for the depth of story and sheer gut wrenching emotions we were to experience as Jordan and Brody’s journey unfolded. Really, we should have known Kate McCarthy would deliver a hit to the heart, after all, her writing always feels so personal, so real. In this case as she painstakingly spent time developing her characters, building their relationship and constructing her story, she afforded us the luxury of getting to really know the characters, to the point where their struggles felt almost personal. Brody and Jordan owned us as we lived and breathed every moment of triumph, failure, happiness and hurt.
“Jordan�.we all need that one person who sees us. The one person who gives it to us straight and tells us how it is. We need that one person who isn’t afraid to get in our face and scream back. That person who won’t ever hesitate to call you on your shit because they love you. That one person who’ll be there for you no matter what. You’re that person.�
The End Game is indeed a searing love story but it was also a life story, in essence the successes and failures and the pursuit of happiness. It’s a story of victory over adversity, of believing in yourself and trusting in the one person who knows your flaws and loves you. Because of them and in spite of them. This story touched our hearts!
Jordan and Brody’s story was as sad as it was happy, as tragic as it was joyful as hopeless as it was hopeful and we shed many tears as Kate McCarthy’s exquisite words flowed from the pages. We FELT it all. Brody and Jordan shared a love that would encounter what seemed insurmountable obstacles but it was a love that was worth fighting for and it was a battle that would be fiercely fought.
‘I’m not the strong one here. Jordan is. She always has been. Jordan is like the strongest oak in the forest. Nothing can fell her, yet here she is, half-naked in my arms and falling apart. It’s breaking my heart.�
Brody was beautiful yet damaged character. Outwardly he seemed to have it all, inwardly he was plagued by self-loathing and self-doubt and he broke our hearts many a time. What a beautiful soul he was, he found his way deep into our hearts that’s for sure.
“I need to believe in something.�
“Then believe in yourself.�
Jordan was an outstanding heroine. This plucky young lady, so loyal and loving showed a maturity beyond her years as she strove to achieve success in love and her career whilst being the strength Brody needed.
“Out there on the field, the game is everything. It builds you up, breaks you down, and it bleeds you dry. But I love it. It’s the only place I’m free.�
Together Jordan and Brody were a force to be reckoned with. A desire for love, a drive to succeed a will to make it all work…but at what cost?
“Home’s not a place where you live. It’s a feeling. You can be anywhere, Jordan. Home will follow you if you follow your heart.�
**Reviewed from an ARC Copy provided by the author, with thanks.**
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✦✦� Come say Hi :
✦✦✦Follow us:
✦✦✦Check out:
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October 7, 2015
Things are about to get gushy guys. But HOLY BOOK HANGOVER!! I can't bring myself to move on from this one. I've tried picking up a few different books, but after the amazingness of The End Game, I'm struggling to find something else to excite me.
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love sport, so the fact that this book featured two sports had me all giddy with excitement. Jordan Elliott is the Aussie soccer sensation with a scholarship in the U.S. and Brody Madden is the wide receiver whose star is on the rise. When these two come together it's explosive!
These characters guys! Jordan and Brody were so perfect for each other. Their love was a thing of beauty. But loving someone doesn't guarantee smooth sailing. And their love is going to be put to the test like neither of them could have guessed.
I loved Jordan's strength and honesty. And Brody... Well, he broke me. Brody Madden is far from perfect. But it was the way that he saw himself that hit me right in the feels. I can't put into words my love for him. Top of the book boyfriend list guys. Right up there with the best of them.
This was the first book that I'd read by Kate McCarthy, and shame on me, because I'm just so blown away. How does an author take simple words, put them down on paper, and have them affect me so greatly? I didn't just love this book. I was consumed by it. I felt it everywhere. In my chest, in my stomach, in my head, and in my heart. I wasn't in any way prepared for the impact of this story and its characters. It was gritty. It was raw. It was lightness. It was darkness. It was love.
All the feels. All the stars.
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love sport, so the fact that this book featured two sports had me all giddy with excitement. Jordan Elliott is the Aussie soccer sensation with a scholarship in the U.S. and Brody Madden is the wide receiver whose star is on the rise. When these two come together it's explosive!
These characters guys! Jordan and Brody were so perfect for each other. Their love was a thing of beauty. But loving someone doesn't guarantee smooth sailing. And their love is going to be put to the test like neither of them could have guessed.
I loved Jordan's strength and honesty. And Brody... Well, he broke me. Brody Madden is far from perfect. But it was the way that he saw himself that hit me right in the feels. I can't put into words my love for him. Top of the book boyfriend list guys. Right up there with the best of them.
This was the first book that I'd read by Kate McCarthy, and shame on me, because I'm just so blown away. How does an author take simple words, put them down on paper, and have them affect me so greatly? I didn't just love this book. I was consumed by it. I felt it everywhere. In my chest, in my stomach, in my head, and in my heart. I wasn't in any way prepared for the impact of this story and its characters. It was gritty. It was raw. It was lightness. It was darkness. It was love.
All the feels. All the stars.
March 28, 2016
6+++++++ STARS!!!
“Home is not a place where you live. It’s a feeling.�
We just adore Kate McCarthy. And when we read the prologue of The End Game this summer, we were excited to get our hands on this story. The prologue left us asking questions, pondering possibilities and counting down to release day....
What we thought was going to be a fun, sports related read became so much more as we turned the pages. This story is raw and heart wrenching at times.
Jordan Elliott, Australia's soccer superstar. The golden girl of her country arrives to Texas on a coveted International scholarship. Her life is mapped out, her goals are set. Nothing will deter her from reaching her dreams.
Until she meets Brody Madden, hot shot wide receiver. Aka hottie on campus. Brody Brody Brody.... He is so much more than meets the eye—to the world he is the epitome of success. Guys want to be him, girls want to be with him. But inside he's been battling demons all his life. The mounting pressure from his academic and football carrier looms over his head when Jordan walks into his life.
As their romance unfolds, Brody's secret life begins to spiral out of control. The connection between Brody and Jordan was electric.
“On the surface, we both appear the same. But we are not. We’re opposites, you and I. I’m weak. But you...� he shakes his head, “…your strength is like the sun, Jordan. It feeds me. And if you don’t let me go, I’ll just use it all up until you have nothing left.�
This left us with tears, pounding hearts and our emotions all over the place. The feelings The End Game evoked were endless. We laughed, cried, swooned, and fell in love with every word.
Kate tells a powerful story of expectations to be the best, of sacrifice, of love and heartbreak. Her writing is incredible. She is a gifted writer who will have you devouring Brody and Jordan’s story. We didn’t want it to end. We were completely blown away and are totally in love with this 6++++ star story.
Read
September 10, 20153.5 stars!
Brody Madden is a football star and Jordan Elliott is a soccer talent. Their sport career is what means the most to them. They plan to success in what they do..and certainly they're not looking for a relationship. Jordan has just moved to Houston from Australia just to follow her dream, a soccer career.
Jordan ends up being Jordan's tutor and while studying together, they fall for each other little by little.
But will they be able to stand the pressure they're constantly put through every day? Will they be enough for each other?
When I learned about this book, I added it to my TBR without a second thought. I love sport romance books and I am obsessed with soccer in general.
The first part of the book was really good. As soon as the arc hit my Kindle, I started reading it and I was immediately pulled in.
The reason why I'm rating it just 3.5 stars is because there is a theme in this book that is hard for me to read about.
This theme was present in a good part of the book and my heart was feeling so heavy that it prevented me to let myself fully enjoy it.
With that being said, I really liked this book. I had to lower my rating for the reasons listed above, but overall, the book was really good.
I'm sure it was just MY issue and I really hope you consider this book. I have seen just 6 star reviews for this book in the past few days and I wish the author much success!
Brody Madden is a football star and Jordan Elliott is a soccer talent. Their sport career is what means the most to them. They plan to success in what they do..and certainly they're not looking for a relationship. Jordan has just moved to Houston from Australia just to follow her dream, a soccer career.
Jordan ends up being Jordan's tutor and while studying together, they fall for each other little by little.
But will they be able to stand the pressure they're constantly put through every day? Will they be enough for each other?
When I learned about this book, I added it to my TBR without a second thought. I love sport romance books and I am obsessed with soccer in general.
The first part of the book was really good. As soon as the arc hit my Kindle, I started reading it and I was immediately pulled in.
The reason why I'm rating it just 3.5 stars is because there is a theme in this book that is hard for me to read about.
This theme was present in a good part of the book and my heart was feeling so heavy that it prevented me to let myself fully enjoy it.
With that being said, I really liked this book. I had to lower my rating for the reasons listed above, but overall, the book was really good.
I'm sure it was just MY issue and I really hope you consider this book. I have seen just 6 star reviews for this book in the past few days and I wish the author much success!
September 15, 2015
Brody was such a sweetheart and Jordan was a darling. This book has its own heartbreaking moments. I just wish it was more of them at times.
It is nice weekend read.
It is nice weekend read.
September 1, 2016
DNF al 60%
Me reservo la opinión.
Me reservo la opinión.
May 27, 2022
It’s been a while since I read a sports themed romance and this story was nothing like I expected it to be. It’s so much more than that.
Jordan has arrived in Houston, Texas on a soccer scholarship at one of the local colleges. She has left all of her friends and the only family she has, her brother, behind to pursue her sporting dream. She is a very talented player who is very dedicated to being the best she can be. She is focused and disciplined - all good qualities of someone striving for sporting excellence.
Jordan gets asked to help out a fellow student by providing some tutoring. The star QB, Brody Madden is failing some classes and needs to keep his average up to pass and retain his position in the team. Jordan is very reluctant to get involved in tutoring him but she has a soft spot for his learning disability as her brother has been through the same challenges.
Football is everything to Brody, it’s the only thing that brings him a sense of purpose and the only future he sees for himself. He hopes to have a long successful career in the NFL if all things go well and he gets drafted. The only other thing he truly cares about his his little sister. His relationship with his parents is completely fractured, his father is an absolute monster and his mother never stands up for Brody.
Jordan is determined to help Brody get the grades she knows he deserves but in doing so they end up spending quite a lot of time together. This soon grows into a simmering attraction that boils over into a full blown relationship. This is not what Jordan ever thought would happen when she arrived in Texas, in fact it’s the last thing she should be doing - her focus needs to be on her game.
However, the pull between these two is undeniable and Brody sees Jordan as the only truest thing in his life. She cares about him, believes in him and completely has his back. He hasn’t had that before and he loves being with her. She brings light to his darkness and he can’t imagine ever being without her.
The pressure of trying to pass his grades, win games and appease his parents begins to completely overwhelm Brody. His relationship with Jordan is not easy too, they both have commitments which means a lot of time apart. All of this leads Brody down a path that could completely destroy not only his career but his entire life as he knows it.
Okay, so much happens in this story, there are lots of other characters that play a part and other incidents that happen which are heartbreaking. I’ve had this sitting unread on my kindle for far too long and decided to listen to the audio version. This gave the added bonus of the different accents and really added another dimension to all of the emotions felt throughout this story. So glad I made time to listen to this, a fantastic story.
Jordan has arrived in Houston, Texas on a soccer scholarship at one of the local colleges. She has left all of her friends and the only family she has, her brother, behind to pursue her sporting dream. She is a very talented player who is very dedicated to being the best she can be. She is focused and disciplined - all good qualities of someone striving for sporting excellence.
Jordan gets asked to help out a fellow student by providing some tutoring. The star QB, Brody Madden is failing some classes and needs to keep his average up to pass and retain his position in the team. Jordan is very reluctant to get involved in tutoring him but she has a soft spot for his learning disability as her brother has been through the same challenges.
Football is everything to Brody, it’s the only thing that brings him a sense of purpose and the only future he sees for himself. He hopes to have a long successful career in the NFL if all things go well and he gets drafted. The only other thing he truly cares about his his little sister. His relationship with his parents is completely fractured, his father is an absolute monster and his mother never stands up for Brody.
Jordan is determined to help Brody get the grades she knows he deserves but in doing so they end up spending quite a lot of time together. This soon grows into a simmering attraction that boils over into a full blown relationship. This is not what Jordan ever thought would happen when she arrived in Texas, in fact it’s the last thing she should be doing - her focus needs to be on her game.
However, the pull between these two is undeniable and Brody sees Jordan as the only truest thing in his life. She cares about him, believes in him and completely has his back. He hasn’t had that before and he loves being with her. She brings light to his darkness and he can’t imagine ever being without her.
The pressure of trying to pass his grades, win games and appease his parents begins to completely overwhelm Brody. His relationship with Jordan is not easy too, they both have commitments which means a lot of time apart. All of this leads Brody down a path that could completely destroy not only his career but his entire life as he knows it.
Okay, so much happens in this story, there are lots of other characters that play a part and other incidents that happen which are heartbreaking. I’ve had this sitting unread on my kindle for far too long and decided to listen to the audio version. This gave the added bonus of the different accents and really added another dimension to all of the emotions felt throughout this story. So glad I made time to listen to this, a fantastic story.
December 28, 2018
RECENSIONE QUI:
Ho conosciuto la scrittura di Kate McCarthy già da Il prezzo della redenzione e sono rimasta stupita dalla potenza delle sue storie e delle sue parole. I suoi romanzi ci sfiorano il cuore, ci fanno emozionare, soffrire dentro dall’inizio fino alla fine portandoci ad un picco di stato d’animo in cui tutto sembra andare per il peggio fino ad arrivare ai suoi lieti fine dolcissimi. Questa è la storia di due ragazzi innamorati dello sport che praticano, che lottano per dare il meglio di loro e che si sostengono, trovando la forza l’uno nell’altro. Brody Madden è un giocatore di football che lotta per arrivare in cima, vuole essere il migliore e dare sempre il massimo in ogni partita. Ha un obiettivo da raggiungere e una strada da percorrere, nient’altro ha mai avuto importanza per lui oltre il football fino a quando non incontra la sua partita. Jordan Elliott si è trasferita dall’Australia per giocare a calcio negli Stati Uniti. È un’incredibile opportunità per lei per dimostrare il suo talento e di essere ambiziosa e determinata. Jordan e Brody puntato agli stessi obiettivi eccetto che sono persone diverse. Due persone con una storia diversa, con due caratteri differenti: lei è forte e intelligente; lui invece è testardo e vulnerabile, non ammette mai di aver bisogno di aiuto. Jordan mi è piaciuta molto sia per la sua forza instancabile e sia per il modo in cui si prende cura e ama Brody. È una delle protagoniste che più ho amato nei romanzi New Adult, una che non si arrende mai qualunque cosa succeda, una che lotta sempre anche se è arrivata al traguardo, una che ama con tutta se stessa il suo uomo. Brody anche se molte volte lo avrei voluto prendere a schiaffi per le sue azioni sconsiderate, l’ho amato a modo mio. Ho amato la sua fragilità e la sua vulnerabilità, il suo costante essere protettivo nei confronti di Jordan, la sua voglia di non pesare sugli altri e di dimostrare che può farcela da solo, ma alcune volte è bene lasciarsi aiutare, è bene porre nelle mani dell’altro la tua fragilità. Non siamo sempre forti, a volte abbiamo bisogno di arrabbiarci, di piangere, di urlare per scaricare la tensione e le cose storte che non vanno bene. La loro storia d’amore è una lenta combustione: Jordan lo intriga, lo ammalia e Brody vuole averla a tutti i costi, non si arrende finché non l’ha tutta per sé. Ho ammirato la bravura dell’autrice di scrivere di un amore che nasce lentamente, prima come attrazione e poi come sentimento forte che brucia, che avvolge il lettore in una storia sensuale, affascinante sulla vita, sull’amore, sul perdono, sulla lealtà e sugli inizi. Questa è una storia sul saper lottare per ciò che amiamo, sul saper rischiare e fare sacrifici per affrontare la vita. È una storia emozionante in cui ci sono momenti di divertimento, di gioia, ma anche di intenso bisogno della persona che amiamo, della famiglia e delle persone che contano. Vi innamorerete delle insicurezze e del tumulto interiore di Brody, della carriera che a volte si prende anche l’anima, del suo cambiamento grazie alla forza e determinazione di Jordan che rimane sempre al suo fianco. Imparerete che nessuno è perfetto, che quando cadiamo in basso e tocchiamo il fondo dobbiamo avere la forza di rialzarci e farci sostenere dalle persone che abbiamo accanto. Il cambiamento può avvenire solo se siamo noi stessi a volerlo. Ho adorato i personaggi secondari, alcuni di più, altri di meno; il mio preferito è Jaxon che sin dalla prima comparsa mi ha regalato momenti di gioia e di divertimento e ha dimostrato di saper proteggere suo cugino e di aiutarlo nei momenti difficili�
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
Ho conosciuto la scrittura di Kate McCarthy già da Il prezzo della redenzione e sono rimasta stupita dalla potenza delle sue storie e delle sue parole. I suoi romanzi ci sfiorano il cuore, ci fanno emozionare, soffrire dentro dall’inizio fino alla fine portandoci ad un picco di stato d’animo in cui tutto sembra andare per il peggio fino ad arrivare ai suoi lieti fine dolcissimi. Questa è la storia di due ragazzi innamorati dello sport che praticano, che lottano per dare il meglio di loro e che si sostengono, trovando la forza l’uno nell’altro. Brody Madden è un giocatore di football che lotta per arrivare in cima, vuole essere il migliore e dare sempre il massimo in ogni partita. Ha un obiettivo da raggiungere e una strada da percorrere, nient’altro ha mai avuto importanza per lui oltre il football fino a quando non incontra la sua partita. Jordan Elliott si è trasferita dall’Australia per giocare a calcio negli Stati Uniti. È un’incredibile opportunità per lei per dimostrare il suo talento e di essere ambiziosa e determinata. Jordan e Brody puntato agli stessi obiettivi eccetto che sono persone diverse. Due persone con una storia diversa, con due caratteri differenti: lei è forte e intelligente; lui invece è testardo e vulnerabile, non ammette mai di aver bisogno di aiuto. Jordan mi è piaciuta molto sia per la sua forza instancabile e sia per il modo in cui si prende cura e ama Brody. È una delle protagoniste che più ho amato nei romanzi New Adult, una che non si arrende mai qualunque cosa succeda, una che lotta sempre anche se è arrivata al traguardo, una che ama con tutta se stessa il suo uomo. Brody anche se molte volte lo avrei voluto prendere a schiaffi per le sue azioni sconsiderate, l’ho amato a modo mio. Ho amato la sua fragilità e la sua vulnerabilità, il suo costante essere protettivo nei confronti di Jordan, la sua voglia di non pesare sugli altri e di dimostrare che può farcela da solo, ma alcune volte è bene lasciarsi aiutare, è bene porre nelle mani dell’altro la tua fragilità. Non siamo sempre forti, a volte abbiamo bisogno di arrabbiarci, di piangere, di urlare per scaricare la tensione e le cose storte che non vanno bene. La loro storia d’amore è una lenta combustione: Jordan lo intriga, lo ammalia e Brody vuole averla a tutti i costi, non si arrende finché non l’ha tutta per sé. Ho ammirato la bravura dell’autrice di scrivere di un amore che nasce lentamente, prima come attrazione e poi come sentimento forte che brucia, che avvolge il lettore in una storia sensuale, affascinante sulla vita, sull’amore, sul perdono, sulla lealtà e sugli inizi. Questa è una storia sul saper lottare per ciò che amiamo, sul saper rischiare e fare sacrifici per affrontare la vita. È una storia emozionante in cui ci sono momenti di divertimento, di gioia, ma anche di intenso bisogno della persona che amiamo, della famiglia e delle persone che contano. Vi innamorerete delle insicurezze e del tumulto interiore di Brody, della carriera che a volte si prende anche l’anima, del suo cambiamento grazie alla forza e determinazione di Jordan che rimane sempre al suo fianco. Imparerete che nessuno è perfetto, che quando cadiamo in basso e tocchiamo il fondo dobbiamo avere la forza di rialzarci e farci sostenere dalle persone che abbiamo accanto. Il cambiamento può avvenire solo se siamo noi stessi a volerlo. Ho adorato i personaggi secondari, alcuni di più, altri di meno; il mio preferito è Jaxon che sin dalla prima comparsa mi ha regalato momenti di gioia e di divertimento e ha dimostrato di saper proteggere suo cugino e di aiutarlo nei momenti difficili�
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
September 13, 2015
3 stars!
This one just didn't quite do it for me. I loved the premise, and now that it's football season, was ecstatic to have a new football romance to read! Unfortunately, this sports romance that is so intriguing at first, plunges head first into a story about addiction and loses itself along the way.
I am all for angst, and this story is chalk full of it. Abuse, neglect, learning disabilities, injuries, pressures...the list could go on and on. Brody Madden is your quintessential jock: arrogant, popular, and unattainable. He is a college wide receiver who is destined for the NFL. He also comes from a very hostile and unloving home (and has the scars to prove it). When soccer star Jordan Elliot is tasked with the job if tutoring Brody, he initially resists, but soon is drawn in by her charms.
The first half of this book is our magic. It is reminiscent of by Elle Kennedy, my absolute favorite book of the year. I was giddy with excitement, as I had the same feelings while reading that I remember having about The Deal. . After this tragic turn of events, this story spiraled down and ultimately crashed and burned.
There was a bit of co-dependency and a ton of denial. I came to see this relationship as more toxic than heartwarming. Thankfully, this is a romance novel, because in real life I'm not sure things would have ended so brilliantly.
This one just didn't quite do it for me. I loved the premise, and now that it's football season, was ecstatic to have a new football romance to read! Unfortunately, this sports romance that is so intriguing at first, plunges head first into a story about addiction and loses itself along the way.
I am all for angst, and this story is chalk full of it. Abuse, neglect, learning disabilities, injuries, pressures...the list could go on and on. Brody Madden is your quintessential jock: arrogant, popular, and unattainable. He is a college wide receiver who is destined for the NFL. He also comes from a very hostile and unloving home (and has the scars to prove it). When soccer star Jordan Elliot is tasked with the job if tutoring Brody, he initially resists, but soon is drawn in by her charms.
The first half of this book is our magic. It is reminiscent of by Elle Kennedy, my absolute favorite book of the year. I was giddy with excitement, as I had the same feelings while reading that I remember having about The Deal. . After this tragic turn of events, this story spiraled down and ultimately crashed and burned.
There was a bit of co-dependency and a ton of denial. I came to see this relationship as more toxic than heartwarming. Thankfully, this is a romance novel, because in real life I'm not sure things would have ended so brilliantly.
December 9, 2015
This book is AMAZING! With each book she writes, I become an even bigger Kate McCarthy fan.
The End Game is one of those books that will provoke a myriad of feels, each one packing one hell of a punch. As cliché as it sounds, you need to go in blind.
I loved that there was no contrived drama; each conflict and catalyst had its purpose. The angst, the drama was meaningful to the growth and development of the story and characters. Each layer perfectly placed and peeled away to reveal the truth of life in the everyday world. Forewarning, this read will not be pretty, but when’s life ever just sunshine and rainbows. Life is full of ups and downs and that is exactly what you will experience with each turn of the page.
Brody is a wicked complex character. He is the typical twenty-year-old college guy; the bad boy per se, but underneath is a man who has been brought down to the levels of hell by the two people who are supposed to love and support him the most.
Jordan is beautiful and inspirational. She shows strength and compassion as well as a passion and dedication for her career. It helped that Jordan’s character wasn't as complex. Kate wrote the perfect heroine for our broken and self-destructive football god. Jordan’s strength, simplicity, and balance gave us the opportunity for a deeper look at Brody. Without her added drama clouding the story and distracting the readers, we were able to focus more on him and his addiction to sports, Jordan, and drugs.
My favorite part about Kate’s writing is that she builds her characters from the ground up. They’re written with such rich depth and attention to detail, allowing the reader to connect on a deeper level with her characters and their world. The End Game is not your typical college/sports romance. Kate injects a vivid world of sports, glorification, abuse, dependency, and the need to be the best. She gets down and dirty, and does not pull any stops about what it takes to get there. Brody and Jordan share with us their pain, love, humor, success, and desperation.
Kate is a masterful storyteller and the journey she takes us on with Brody and Jordan is a raw, gritty ride that will leave you spellbound and utterly breathless.
Thank you, Kate McCarthy for the opportunity to beta Reader for The End Game.
The End Game is one of those books that will provoke a myriad of feels, each one packing one hell of a punch. As cliché as it sounds, you need to go in blind.
I loved that there was no contrived drama; each conflict and catalyst had its purpose. The angst, the drama was meaningful to the growth and development of the story and characters. Each layer perfectly placed and peeled away to reveal the truth of life in the everyday world. Forewarning, this read will not be pretty, but when’s life ever just sunshine and rainbows. Life is full of ups and downs and that is exactly what you will experience with each turn of the page.
Brody is a wicked complex character. He is the typical twenty-year-old college guy; the bad boy per se, but underneath is a man who has been brought down to the levels of hell by the two people who are supposed to love and support him the most.
Jordan is beautiful and inspirational. She shows strength and compassion as well as a passion and dedication for her career. It helped that Jordan’s character wasn't as complex. Kate wrote the perfect heroine for our broken and self-destructive football god. Jordan’s strength, simplicity, and balance gave us the opportunity for a deeper look at Brody. Without her added drama clouding the story and distracting the readers, we were able to focus more on him and his addiction to sports, Jordan, and drugs.
My favorite part about Kate’s writing is that she builds her characters from the ground up. They’re written with such rich depth and attention to detail, allowing the reader to connect on a deeper level with her characters and their world. The End Game is not your typical college/sports romance. Kate injects a vivid world of sports, glorification, abuse, dependency, and the need to be the best. She gets down and dirty, and does not pull any stops about what it takes to get there. Brody and Jordan share with us their pain, love, humor, success, and desperation.
Kate is a masterful storyteller and the journey she takes us on with Brody and Jordan is a raw, gritty ride that will leave you spellbound and utterly breathless.
Thank you, Kate McCarthy for the opportunity to beta Reader for The End Game.
April 29, 2019
Wow... I don't know how I survived these many emotions. This book was a super emotional rollercoaster.
I actually had to put it down sometimes because I was getting super anxious about the story. But, story aside, the author did a fantastic job putting that prologue. It left me curious, anxious and actually dreading what would happen because that prologue leaves a heartbreak idea of their real end game. At the same time, I wanted to read faster than ever, I had to stop and digest everything so I was ready for the other shoe to drop.
Anyway, this story is intense. The characters have realistic and deep issues, things that are not surreal and that can happen to anyone.
Jordan is a badass soccer player and to be the best was always her plan. After everything her brother had to give up for her to have the opportunity to play in another country, she's putting everything she has into the soccer field. Until a football player comes crashing her life and makes all her priorities change.
Brody is the perfect cliché, the tall and handsome football player, the star and the one everyone is watching. Except, he makes sure everyone just sees what he wants, leaving the dark parts of him to himself only. Brody didn't have an easy life, despite what the public thought and he did everything in his power to be the best and to prove something to himself. An Australian blonde bombshell arriving with a sports scholarship will make him see otherwise.
Wow... just, wow. This one was really hardcore. I laughed, cried and clutched my kindle for dear life when all hell broke loose. It was breathtaking. It had that college vibe, but it also had so much more! I loved it. It was amazing! It has been a while since I felt so much while reading a book. I think this one was my first by this author but I already added her other books to my tbr. Can't wait to read them! :)
I actually had to put it down sometimes because I was getting super anxious about the story. But, story aside, the author did a fantastic job putting that prologue. It left me curious, anxious and actually dreading what would happen because that prologue leaves a heartbreak idea of their real end game. At the same time, I wanted to read faster than ever, I had to stop and digest everything so I was ready for the other shoe to drop.
Anyway, this story is intense. The characters have realistic and deep issues, things that are not surreal and that can happen to anyone.
Jordan is a badass soccer player and to be the best was always her plan. After everything her brother had to give up for her to have the opportunity to play in another country, she's putting everything she has into the soccer field. Until a football player comes crashing her life and makes all her priorities change.
Brody is the perfect cliché, the tall and handsome football player, the star and the one everyone is watching. Except, he makes sure everyone just sees what he wants, leaving the dark parts of him to himself only. Brody didn't have an easy life, despite what the public thought and he did everything in his power to be the best and to prove something to himself. An Australian blonde bombshell arriving with a sports scholarship will make him see otherwise.
Wow... just, wow. This one was really hardcore. I laughed, cried and clutched my kindle for dear life when all hell broke loose. It was breathtaking. It had that college vibe, but it also had so much more! I loved it. It was amazing! It has been a while since I felt so much while reading a book. I think this one was my first by this author but I already added her other books to my tbr. Can't wait to read them! :)
September 9, 2015
3.5 Stars
Kate McCarthy is a favorite author of mine but surprisingly this book just did not do it for me. Although the book features a very strong heroine and and a talented but tortured hero, which I loved, the plot of this book fell flat for me and the so-called scandal was absolutely not scandalous in my eyes at all. Lots of readers fell in love with this book so definitely give this one a try and judge for yourself. I adore Kate McCarthy (Redemption is one of my top favorites) and look forward to her next book!
Kate McCarthy is a favorite author of mine but surprisingly this book just did not do it for me. Although the book features a very strong heroine and and a talented but tortured hero, which I loved, the plot of this book fell flat for me and the so-called scandal was absolutely not scandalous in my eyes at all. Lots of readers fell in love with this book so definitely give this one a try and judge for yourself. I adore Kate McCarthy (Redemption is one of my top favorites) and look forward to her next book!
September 23, 2015
The End Game by Kate McCarthy
4 stars!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this one; it was not at all what I was expecting from a “Sports Romance.� This was a sports romance with a twist, it was great that the heroine was also a sports star too, with this book we have a successful woman as well as a successful man and it brought a whole new dynamic to this trope in sports romance books.
Kate McCarthy painstakingly draws you into the lives of Brody and Jordan and what I loved was that this wasn’t so much about the glamour, fame and fortune that success on the football pitch brings but this centred around the pressures to succeed and also how far you would go to match up to those expectations afforded to you by family, peers and fans.
Brody Madden was the typical high school jock, except he wasn’t. He gave off those vibes in all the right places but really the reputation had no resemblance to the man himself. He was the man that all women wanted to be seen with and who all men wanted to emulate but if they really knew the real Brody Madden...would they want to be him?
Brody has the most unsupportive family...ever!! They wanted him to follow in the family footsteps, his father was a politician and his mum a society wife but it was apparent from a young age that was not going to happen. Brody had dyslexia and rather than get him the help and support that he needed, they brushed it under the carpet as an embarrassment, so Brody had to struggle all the way through school and college. It was amazing that he had made it this far. Now with his football career hanging on by a thread due to failing grades, drastic times call for drastic measures, I was just grateful that he had a supportive uncle, who fortunately was in the right place at the right time.
Jordan Elliott was the poor girl that had an affinity for football. She was at the top of her game in Australia and this had led her to be scouted by one of the top ladies soccer colleges who had brought her to the States on a scholarship. She had high expectations and the lives of her and her twin brother depended on her being successful. She has one goal and that was to succeed and get signed.
Jordan was a great character, she was strong, she was motivated and she knew what she wanted and how to get it but on the flip side she had a heart of gold and was sympathetic and empathetic. While her past may have dictated her future she had never let it get the better of her and if anything the bond that she had with her brother was even stronger and even more endearing. These two only had each other and with many sacrifices made Jordan needed this to work.
Brody, Brody, Brody, I felt so sorry for Brody, all he wanted was to be loved but in return he got nothing. My heart broke for him so many times but pressures also made him make some stupid choices. Pressures from outside forces and even from himself led him down a shaky path and one that was only ever going to end badly, but he wanted to be someone, he wanted his dad to be proud rather than embarrassed, he just wanted to be accepted, just how far would he be willing to go?
Jordan and Brody’s paths cross when one of their professors marry them up for tutoring, Jordan having tutored her brother with dyslexia was the ideal candidate to help Brody and also they had sport in common, they understood each other’s pressures. While they didn’t necessarily get off on the right foot, it soon became apparent they had a lot more in common.
Kate McCarthy really delivers on the emotion, the character build up and connection for me was on point and these two totally endeared themselves to me. My only little niggle was that in some places for me the story dragged and my interest began to wane a little, but then something else would happen and we would be back on track. As usual with a Kate McCarthy read you could not help but be drawn into this story, I felt it all, the conflicted thoughts, confusion, the pressure, the pain, the love, the hate, the fall outs and everything else in between. These two really had it rough but at least they had each other. At times they both needed tough love and they both delivered it and were on the receiving end, but that went a long way in showing just how much they meant to each other and how perfect they were together. They could read each other, they knew what the other wanted and needed and whether they initially wanted it or not their connection was soul deep. These two truly were soul mates.
Another great read from Kate McCarthy, this is one author that knows how to deliver an emotional punch and this one is no different.
4 stars!!
“Home’s not a place where you live. It’s a feeling.�
I thoroughly enjoyed this one; it was not at all what I was expecting from a “Sports Romance.� This was a sports romance with a twist, it was great that the heroine was also a sports star too, with this book we have a successful woman as well as a successful man and it brought a whole new dynamic to this trope in sports romance books.
Kate McCarthy painstakingly draws you into the lives of Brody and Jordan and what I loved was that this wasn’t so much about the glamour, fame and fortune that success on the football pitch brings but this centred around the pressures to succeed and also how far you would go to match up to those expectations afforded to you by family, peers and fans.
“Out there on the field, the game is everything. It builds you up, breaks you down, and it bleeds you dry. But I fucking love it. It’s the only place I’m free.�
Brody Madden was the typical high school jock, except he wasn’t. He gave off those vibes in all the right places but really the reputation had no resemblance to the man himself. He was the man that all women wanted to be seen with and who all men wanted to emulate but if they really knew the real Brody Madden...would they want to be him?
�...so I lie there quietly and close my eyes, and I think about how nice it would be some days to just not wake up at all.�
Brody has the most unsupportive family...ever!! They wanted him to follow in the family footsteps, his father was a politician and his mum a society wife but it was apparent from a young age that was not going to happen. Brody had dyslexia and rather than get him the help and support that he needed, they brushed it under the carpet as an embarrassment, so Brody had to struggle all the way through school and college. It was amazing that he had made it this far. Now with his football career hanging on by a thread due to failing grades, drastic times call for drastic measures, I was just grateful that he had a supportive uncle, who fortunately was in the right place at the right time.
“Expectation is the root of all heartache.�
Jordan Elliott was the poor girl that had an affinity for football. She was at the top of her game in Australia and this had led her to be scouted by one of the top ladies soccer colleges who had brought her to the States on a scholarship. She had high expectations and the lives of her and her twin brother depended on her being successful. She has one goal and that was to succeed and get signed.
“Some of those girls out there play with heart, and some play just because they’re good at it, but you? You bleed the game.�
Jordan was a great character, she was strong, she was motivated and she knew what she wanted and how to get it but on the flip side she had a heart of gold and was sympathetic and empathetic. While her past may have dictated her future she had never let it get the better of her and if anything the bond that she had with her brother was even stronger and even more endearing. These two only had each other and with many sacrifices made Jordan needed this to work.
Brody, Brody, Brody, I felt so sorry for Brody, all he wanted was to be loved but in return he got nothing. My heart broke for him so many times but pressures also made him make some stupid choices. Pressures from outside forces and even from himself led him down a shaky path and one that was only ever going to end badly, but he wanted to be someone, he wanted his dad to be proud rather than embarrassed, he just wanted to be accepted, just how far would he be willing to go?
“Real life is ugly and raw, and it fucking sucks.�
Jordan and Brody’s paths cross when one of their professors marry them up for tutoring, Jordan having tutored her brother with dyslexia was the ideal candidate to help Brody and also they had sport in common, they understood each other’s pressures. While they didn’t necessarily get off on the right foot, it soon became apparent they had a lot more in common.
�...your strength is like the sun, Jordan. It feeds me. And if you don’t let me go, I’ll just use it all up until you have nothing left.�
Kate McCarthy really delivers on the emotion, the character build up and connection for me was on point and these two totally endeared themselves to me. My only little niggle was that in some places for me the story dragged and my interest began to wane a little, but then something else would happen and we would be back on track. As usual with a Kate McCarthy read you could not help but be drawn into this story, I felt it all, the conflicted thoughts, confusion, the pressure, the pain, the love, the hate, the fall outs and everything else in between. These two really had it rough but at least they had each other. At times they both needed tough love and they both delivered it and were on the receiving end, but that went a long way in showing just how much they meant to each other and how perfect they were together. They could read each other, they knew what the other wanted and needed and whether they initially wanted it or not their connection was soul deep. These two truly were soul mates.
“I luv u like a squirrel luvs his nuts.�
“I luv u like Kanye luvs Kanye.�
Another great read from Kate McCarthy, this is one author that knows how to deliver an emotional punch and this one is no different.
“It just got so hard. And it felt so good, just for once, to not be anything at all.�
September 8, 2015
Review by Lisa Kane
Jordan Elliott is a soccer player; a real sensation on the playing field. Her biggest supporter is her brother Nick, but she is leaving Sydney, Australia to take advantage of a scholarship to Colton Park University, a college in Austin, Texas. This is the best school in Texas for athletes and she is not about to let anything stand in her way of becoming a professional soccer player.
Texas is very different than her home back in Australia. But she has the best roommate, Leah and Leah's boyfriend Hayden who have taken her under their wing. Running late for class one day she ends up seated next to Brody Madden, the hot wide receiver for the Colton Bulls, the school's football team. There are sparks to say the least. But Brody is the catch all the girls want, and it's never been necessary for him to do the chasing. It's different with Jordan.
I'm getting the impression that Jordan Elliott is fast becoming Colton Park University's shiny new diamond, complete with an all -around good girl reputation to back it up. How far will I have to dig to reach the wicked layers that lie beneath? I've seen glimpses so I know they're there.
But as things progress between them, reading Brody's POV. it becomes apparent to the reader that Brody is a mess. He might be gorgeous and friendly and crazy talented when it comes to football, but this guy has issues. Major issues. His relationship with his father has messed him up. His dad is a controlling, abusive man who holds high political aspirations and has a lot of power. For some reason he seems to detest is own son. Learning comes hard for Brody; he has dyslexia and struggles for every passing mark he gets. He is on the fast track to be drafted to the NFL and this only adds to his pressures. If he fails his classes, he will lose his dream.
It's when these two are together that the real heartbreak begins. Brody turns to some dangerous means to help him deal with all the pressure and pretty soon he isn't able to perform, either in school or on the field without help. Jordan is clueless most of the time, but when she finds out what he is doing, what will be her reaction?
"Is that what I am? Some mistake you made along the way?"
"No!" Dammit. That didn't come out right.
"You're not a mistake. I love you, Jordan. You're the best part of my life. But I can't be who you need me to be. Not right now."
This was a difficult story to read at times. Jordan has known real loss; the kind that scarred her and yet she is determined not to let her past define her future. Brody on the other hand, allows his past to drag him down and he sabotages his own future. I was frustrated with his lies. He lies to everyone and he lashes out at those that care the most. It cut me deeply to read about his struggles. Most of the story is about his attempts to fight his inner demons and his inability to do so. But there is hope and light in this book. Sometimes you have to fall in order to be able to pick yourself up. Jordan is the strong one here. While everything is going to hell around her, she remains centered-even if she is a bit lost.
"Get lost, Jordan," he says coldly, tucking his hands into the pockets of his shorts. "I actually came here to get away from you, yet here you are, chasing after me like every other damn bitch on campus."
My only complaint is the lack of storyline for Brody's healing. While the book is centered on his internal struggles and the fallout from his poor choices, we never see the healing process that occurred. While I loved the epilogues, especially from both POV's, I would have loved to have had more insight into what happened and how did Brody eventually accept and move on from the abuse he suffered.
"But being up there is hard, and it's lonely. And if you fall, it's a long way down and no one's waiting at the bottom to catch you."
Jordan Elliott is a soccer player; a real sensation on the playing field. Her biggest supporter is her brother Nick, but she is leaving Sydney, Australia to take advantage of a scholarship to Colton Park University, a college in Austin, Texas. This is the best school in Texas for athletes and she is not about to let anything stand in her way of becoming a professional soccer player.
Texas is very different than her home back in Australia. But she has the best roommate, Leah and Leah's boyfriend Hayden who have taken her under their wing. Running late for class one day she ends up seated next to Brody Madden, the hot wide receiver for the Colton Bulls, the school's football team. There are sparks to say the least. But Brody is the catch all the girls want, and it's never been necessary for him to do the chasing. It's different with Jordan.
I'm getting the impression that Jordan Elliott is fast becoming Colton Park University's shiny new diamond, complete with an all -around good girl reputation to back it up. How far will I have to dig to reach the wicked layers that lie beneath? I've seen glimpses so I know they're there.
But as things progress between them, reading Brody's POV. it becomes apparent to the reader that Brody is a mess. He might be gorgeous and friendly and crazy talented when it comes to football, but this guy has issues. Major issues. His relationship with his father has messed him up. His dad is a controlling, abusive man who holds high political aspirations and has a lot of power. For some reason he seems to detest is own son. Learning comes hard for Brody; he has dyslexia and struggles for every passing mark he gets. He is on the fast track to be drafted to the NFL and this only adds to his pressures. If he fails his classes, he will lose his dream.
It's when these two are together that the real heartbreak begins. Brody turns to some dangerous means to help him deal with all the pressure and pretty soon he isn't able to perform, either in school or on the field without help. Jordan is clueless most of the time, but when she finds out what he is doing, what will be her reaction?
"Is that what I am? Some mistake you made along the way?"
"No!" Dammit. That didn't come out right.
"You're not a mistake. I love you, Jordan. You're the best part of my life. But I can't be who you need me to be. Not right now."
This was a difficult story to read at times. Jordan has known real loss; the kind that scarred her and yet she is determined not to let her past define her future. Brody on the other hand, allows his past to drag him down and he sabotages his own future. I was frustrated with his lies. He lies to everyone and he lashes out at those that care the most. It cut me deeply to read about his struggles. Most of the story is about his attempts to fight his inner demons and his inability to do so. But there is hope and light in this book. Sometimes you have to fall in order to be able to pick yourself up. Jordan is the strong one here. While everything is going to hell around her, she remains centered-even if she is a bit lost.
"Get lost, Jordan," he says coldly, tucking his hands into the pockets of his shorts. "I actually came here to get away from you, yet here you are, chasing after me like every other damn bitch on campus."
My only complaint is the lack of storyline for Brody's healing. While the book is centered on his internal struggles and the fallout from his poor choices, we never see the healing process that occurred. While I loved the epilogues, especially from both POV's, I would have loved to have had more insight into what happened and how did Brody eventually accept and move on from the abuse he suffered.
"But being up there is hard, and it's lonely. And if you fall, it's a long way down and no one's waiting at the bottom to catch you."
November 26, 2015
“We all need the one person who sees us. The one who gives it to us straight and tells us it is. We need that one person who isn’t afraid to get in our face and scream back. That one person who won’t ever hesitate to call you on your shit because they love you. That one person who’ll be there no matter what. You’re that person.�
There’s absolutely nothing better than discovering a new author, only to have them completely knock you off your feet. This is my first book by author Kate McCarthy, but it won’t be my last. She has certainly made a fan out of me.
The End Game is one of those books that just completely takes you by surprise. I love a good sports romance, but this one has really stood out for me. From the moment I read the epilogue, I was hooked. I wanted to know more about Jordan and Brody. I had to know what happened and how they got to this point.
The End Game follows the story of Jordan and Brody. Their story is told from dual points of view. Jordan has flown all the way from Australia to Texas to pursue her dream of playing soccer. She lives and breathes the game. However, she is thrown a little off course when her professor asks her to help tutor another student who has dyslexia. At first she wants nothing more than to just do her work and make it through this tutoring session. However, the more time she spends with Brody, the more she realizes that Brody is not what he seems.
The End Game was an absolute fabulous read. I fell in love with the characters instantly. Jordan was feisty, driven, and full of determination. She was just what Brody needed. He needed someone who would support him, believe in him, give him the strength to do more and be more. Brody lived his whole life thinking that he wasn’t worthy, that he was nothing; a looser. Football became his saving grace, but at the same time it became his obsession. It became the thing that he was willing to fight for, that is until he met Jordan.
I absolutely loved Jordan and Brody together. They had excellent push and pull. Yes, they had a lot of things to figure out, but that’s the beauty of a relationship, figuring things out. You have to learn to make things work, lean on someone instead of pushing them away. I loved the slow burn of their relationship. It wasn’t something that they both jumped into. I loved getting to know them both and then seeing them finally get together.
The End Game had everything that I look for in a great read. It was well written and had a captivating plot. The characters were likable and easy to connect with. They were broken, real, and complex. I even loved the secondary characters. There is one in particular that I wouldn’t mind getting their own story in the future. Fingers crossed on that one. This book does deal with some difficult and at times heavy subject matter, but the author does an amazing job tackling those issues.
Overall, this was an excellent read. I loved everything about it. Brody and Jordan’s story took me on one emotional roller-coaster ride. Their story pulling me in and captivating me right until the very end. It had just the right amount of angst, romance, drama and of course, sports! I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
There’s absolutely nothing better than discovering a new author, only to have them completely knock you off your feet. This is my first book by author Kate McCarthy, but it won’t be my last. She has certainly made a fan out of me.
The End Game is one of those books that just completely takes you by surprise. I love a good sports romance, but this one has really stood out for me. From the moment I read the epilogue, I was hooked. I wanted to know more about Jordan and Brody. I had to know what happened and how they got to this point.
The End Game follows the story of Jordan and Brody. Their story is told from dual points of view. Jordan has flown all the way from Australia to Texas to pursue her dream of playing soccer. She lives and breathes the game. However, she is thrown a little off course when her professor asks her to help tutor another student who has dyslexia. At first she wants nothing more than to just do her work and make it through this tutoring session. However, the more time she spends with Brody, the more she realizes that Brody is not what he seems.
The End Game was an absolute fabulous read. I fell in love with the characters instantly. Jordan was feisty, driven, and full of determination. She was just what Brody needed. He needed someone who would support him, believe in him, give him the strength to do more and be more. Brody lived his whole life thinking that he wasn’t worthy, that he was nothing; a looser. Football became his saving grace, but at the same time it became his obsession. It became the thing that he was willing to fight for, that is until he met Jordan.
I absolutely loved Jordan and Brody together. They had excellent push and pull. Yes, they had a lot of things to figure out, but that’s the beauty of a relationship, figuring things out. You have to learn to make things work, lean on someone instead of pushing them away. I loved the slow burn of their relationship. It wasn’t something that they both jumped into. I loved getting to know them both and then seeing them finally get together.
The End Game had everything that I look for in a great read. It was well written and had a captivating plot. The characters were likable and easy to connect with. They were broken, real, and complex. I even loved the secondary characters. There is one in particular that I wouldn’t mind getting their own story in the future. Fingers crossed on that one. This book does deal with some difficult and at times heavy subject matter, but the author does an amazing job tackling those issues.
Overall, this was an excellent read. I loved everything about it. Brody and Jordan’s story took me on one emotional roller-coaster ride. Their story pulling me in and captivating me right until the very end. It had just the right amount of angst, romance, drama and of course, sports! I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
July 27, 2017
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This one took a turn into something that I was not expecting . I enjoyed it, but I was hoping for a second chance romance. I know that the couple do separate for a while and get back together technically making it a second chance, but it just didn't have that feel for me. It was just a little better than "ok", but not quite 4 stars.
Storyline: This is Jordan and Brody's story. The couple officially meet when Jordan is assigned to tutor Brody by his uncle who is also their professor. She was assigned because the professor knows that Brody is dyslexic and not getting accommodations and that Jordan has a twin brother with dyslexia back home in Australia. She is a transfer student on a soccer scholarship, and he is the school's star football player. He is hiding his learning disability because his family has shamed him and he is sure people will treat him differently. The sparks fly when they meet, but Jordan is hesitant to start anything because she wants to focus on soccer. Brody feels the same way because he wants to get drafted, but he ends up telling everyone they are dating (even though he doesn't date) to explain why they are together for the tutoring sessions. There is some drama with a jealous coed, a mean family, a break up, some other major hiccups and then the couple eventually find their HEA (I left a lot out because I don't want to ruin it).
POV: This alternated between Jordan and Brody's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were some slow parts. Not so slow that I skimmed, but it was on the longer side so I felt like some editing would've helped.
H rating: 4 stars. Brody. I liked him because I felt for him and his struggles with his self-identity and family issues.
h rating: 4 stars. Jordan. I liked how loyal she was to Brody.
Sadness level: Moderate. This does have some heavy issues that made it sad at times. I shed a few tears.
Heat level: Moderate. There are some steamy times...not that memorable -- just ok
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had a great epilogue that tied everything up for the couple. Before the epilogue I felt cheated by the abrupt ending, but it saved it for me with a significant jump into their future.
Overall Opinion: This one took a turn into something that I was not expecting . I enjoyed it, but I was hoping for a second chance romance. I know that the couple do separate for a while and get back together technically making it a second chance, but it just didn't have that feel for me. It was just a little better than "ok", but not quite 4 stars.
Storyline: This is Jordan and Brody's story. The couple officially meet when Jordan is assigned to tutor Brody by his uncle who is also their professor. She was assigned because the professor knows that Brody is dyslexic and not getting accommodations and that Jordan has a twin brother with dyslexia back home in Australia. She is a transfer student on a soccer scholarship, and he is the school's star football player. He is hiding his learning disability because his family has shamed him and he is sure people will treat him differently. The sparks fly when they meet, but Jordan is hesitant to start anything because she wants to focus on soccer. Brody feels the same way because he wants to get drafted, but he ends up telling everyone they are dating (even though he doesn't date) to explain why they are together for the tutoring sessions. There is some drama with a jealous coed, a mean family, a break up, some other major hiccups and then the couple eventually find their HEA (I left a lot out because I don't want to ruin it).
POV: This alternated between Jordan and Brody's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were some slow parts. Not so slow that I skimmed, but it was on the longer side so I felt like some editing would've helped.
H rating: 4 stars. Brody. I liked him because I felt for him and his struggles with his self-identity and family issues.
h rating: 4 stars. Jordan. I liked how loyal she was to Brody.
Sadness level: Moderate. This does have some heavy issues that made it sad at times. I shed a few tears.
Heat level: Moderate. There are some steamy times...not that memorable -- just ok
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had a great epilogue that tied everything up for the couple. Before the epilogue I felt cheated by the abrupt ending, but it saved it for me with a significant jump into their future.
September 14, 2015
3 "Do something crazy." Stars
A very sweet book. I liked it. A boy and a girl who meet and fall in love unexpectedly staying together through the good and the downright ugly. Told from both points of view, The End Game provides a solid new adult reading experience.
Full review to come.
April 17, 2016
This was a great read for me. Loved both Brody and Jordan very much.
This was a very intense story and I was aching for both of them!!!
Loved the way it ended, and I think it was the right ending for both characters.
This was a very intense story and I was aching for both of them!!!
Loved the way it ended, and I think it was the right ending for both characters.
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