What do you think?
Rate this book
Trophy Boyfriends #2
Hard Fall
"Hard Fall"
That's what my mom is always saying: "The bigger you are, the harder you fall." She's talking about love—I've never been in it myself, but that doesn't stop me from secretly matchmaking for my friends. Who would suspect me, a world class athlete, of meddling in other people's love lives? I love Love, especially when it’s not me who’s doing the falling…
"No Thanks."
That's what Hollis Westbrooke said when I asked her on a date. Well, propositioned her, actually—but it was all a big joke; one she doesn't think is funny. My stomach is in knots since I might actually like this girl so the joke is on me. Hollis’s father is my boss—and she doesn't date players.
The bigger they are, the harder they fall—especially when biggest player is me.
That's what my mom is always saying: "The bigger you are, the harder you fall." She's talking about love—I've never been in it myself, but that doesn't stop me from secretly matchmaking for my friends. Who would suspect me, a world class athlete, of meddling in other people's love lives? I love Love, especially when it’s not me who’s doing the falling…
"No Thanks."
That's what Hollis Westbrooke said when I asked her on a date. Well, propositioned her, actually—but it was all a big joke; one she doesn't think is funny. My stomach is in knots since I might actually like this girl so the joke is on me. Hollis’s father is my boss—and she doesn't date players.
The bigger they are, the harder they fall—especially when biggest player is me.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2020
About the author
Sara Ney
66 books6,426 followersSara Ney is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the How to Date a Douchebag series, and is best known for her sexy, laugh-out-loud New Adult romances. Among her favorite vices, she includes: iced latte's, historical architecture and well-placed sarcasm. She lives colorfully, collects vintage books, art, loves flea markets, and fancies herself British.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 538 reviews
August 16, 2020
4 stars
Trace ‘Buzz’ Wallace meets Hollis Westbrooke at the stadium he plays ball and naturally, he hits on her. He has no idea she’s his team managers daughter but once he finds out it doesn’t stop him. She needs to get her ex off her back and he needs to bring a girl home to make his mom happy. They are exactly what each other needs.
Oh my goodness Buzz Wallace might be the funniest and sweetest hero I’ve read about. He’s such an oddball but I loved him so much. Hollis couldn’t resist his crazy charm as much as she tried. My favorite parts of this book were when they were around Buzz’s family and when Hollis started to see him for the kind of man he really is, not the guy he appears to be at first.
Honestly, the only thing I would change about this book would be to make it longer. I wanted more from Buzz and Hollis, especially once they got together. This was an odd combo of slow burn/friends to lovers and a bit of insta love once they realized their feelings but it really worked for me.
The first two books of this series have been wins for me and I’m looking forward to seeing where Sara Ney goes with the next. I kind of hope it’s about Buzz’s brother, even though he’s not a baseball player (he plays football) because I want more of the Wallace family. If you’re looking for a sports romance that will make you laugh out loud and that’s sweet and steamy, pick up Hard Fall.
I need a girl I can bring home to my mother, and Hollis Westbrooke is perfect in every way. Other than the fact that she hates me…Reading Hard Fall was such a blast. Seriously, this one was so much fun to read. I enjoyed the first book in this series a lot, but I think I liked this one even more. Buzz was such a hilarious hero and I loved getting his perspective.
Trace ‘Buzz’ Wallace meets Hollis Westbrooke at the stadium he plays ball and naturally, he hits on her. He has no idea she’s his team managers daughter but once he finds out it doesn’t stop him. She needs to get her ex off her back and he needs to bring a girl home to make his mom happy. They are exactly what each other needs.
Oh my goodness Buzz Wallace might be the funniest and sweetest hero I’ve read about. He’s such an oddball but I loved him so much. Hollis couldn’t resist his crazy charm as much as she tried. My favorite parts of this book were when they were around Buzz’s family and when Hollis started to see him for the kind of man he really is, not the guy he appears to be at first.
Honestly, the only thing I would change about this book would be to make it longer. I wanted more from Buzz and Hollis, especially once they got together. This was an odd combo of slow burn/friends to lovers and a bit of insta love once they realized their feelings but it really worked for me.
The first two books of this series have been wins for me and I’m looking forward to seeing where Sara Ney goes with the next. I kind of hope it’s about Buzz’s brother, even though he’s not a baseball player (he plays football) because I want more of the Wallace family. If you’re looking for a sports romance that will make you laugh out loud and that’s sweet and steamy, pick up Hard Fall.
December 24, 2020
This is fun. I feel so entertained by Wallace. He is super cute. Perfect boyfriend material. I love how persistent he is pursuing Hollace. Miss Ney brings this book to a different level. Instead of man whore, we got commited hero.
What a fresh breath of air. Hard Fall is the first book I read in this series. Hopefully I can get copy of other books.
Very entertaining reading to start Christmas holiday.
4 stars
What a fresh breath of air. Hard Fall is the first book I read in this series. Hopefully I can get copy of other books.
Very entertaining reading to start Christmas holiday.
4 stars
November 1, 2021
Okay, Trace and his entire family were HILARIOUS. This is the kind of Sara Ney romance I’ve been missing! I laughed so much during this. Trace is a total DORK but he grew on me. I enjoyed the fake dating/forbidden aspect too. Hollis is the daughter of the GM of Trace’s baseball team and he saves her one night by pretending to be her boyfriend, and things spiral from there. It’s really fun and entertaining!
August 19, 2020
4.5 Stars 🌟
Hard Fall is the 2nd book in the Trophy Boyfriends Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a laugh out loud romantic comedy between a professional baseball player and the daughter of his Boss with a fake dating element to it.
When it comes to rom coms and any sort of sports romance I have a very specific type of hero I'm always drawn to and Trace 'Buzz' Wallace checks all the boxes. He is loud, obnoxiously funny, a little dorky, he has no boundaries but is a sweetheart, super supportive and a total hopeless romantic. He is basically part labrador, part man child with a heart of gold. He reminds me a lot of my fave man child Blake Riley and I. Am. Here. For. It. I don't know what it is about this type of hero but I can't help but love them. I pretty much spent the entire book smiling and laughing at every single thing he said or thought. I must've highlighted the entire book with all things Buzz Wallace.
And we can't forget our main girl Hollis Westbrooke as I also loved her a lot. She is sassy, independent, kind and so very loveable. She is somewhat guarded and cautious when letting new people in having been used before due to her families connections and money and doesn't always know if people's interest in her is genuine. The first time she meets Buzz he can't help but hit on her and she is not into it at all. She doesn't date baseball players especially ones on the team run by her father. Having trouble with an ex who doesn't know when to back off she is swiftly rescued by Buzz which then leads them into sort of fake dating and shenanigans ensue, many many shenanigans.
Also can we take a second to appreciate the brillance that is Hollis Wallace 😅💕
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was highly entertaining and very reminiscent of Sara Ney's earlier work. I only wish the book's in this new series were longer as I'm sure I could read about these couples all day and I'm looking forward to the 3rd book.
《book aesthetic made by me. I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
Hard Fall is the 2nd book in the Trophy Boyfriends Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a laugh out loud romantic comedy between a professional baseball player and the daughter of his Boss with a fake dating element to it.
When it comes to rom coms and any sort of sports romance I have a very specific type of hero I'm always drawn to and Trace 'Buzz' Wallace checks all the boxes. He is loud, obnoxiously funny, a little dorky, he has no boundaries but is a sweetheart, super supportive and a total hopeless romantic. He is basically part labrador, part man child with a heart of gold. He reminds me a lot of my fave man child Blake Riley and I. Am. Here. For. It. I don't know what it is about this type of hero but I can't help but love them. I pretty much spent the entire book smiling and laughing at every single thing he said or thought. I must've highlighted the entire book with all things Buzz Wallace.
And we can't forget our main girl Hollis Westbrooke as I also loved her a lot. She is sassy, independent, kind and so very loveable. She is somewhat guarded and cautious when letting new people in having been used before due to her families connections and money and doesn't always know if people's interest in her is genuine. The first time she meets Buzz he can't help but hit on her and she is not into it at all. She doesn't date baseball players especially ones on the team run by her father. Having trouble with an ex who doesn't know when to back off she is swiftly rescued by Buzz which then leads them into sort of fake dating and shenanigans ensue, many many shenanigans.
Also can we take a second to appreciate the brillance that is Hollis Wallace 😅💕
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was highly entertaining and very reminiscent of Sara Ney's earlier work. I only wish the book's in this new series were longer as I'm sure I could read about these couples all day and I'm looking forward to the 3rd book.
《book aesthetic made by me. I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
November 2, 2020
I was super excited to see that the second book in the Trophy Boyfriends series was Trace “Buzz” Wallace. I loved him so much in the previous book and I was hoping he would meet his match and cop a heap of trouble from Noah and Miranda as payback for all the Buzzness he put them through because man is he a character and a half.
Even in his own story he was larger than life. In a way that felt like it would be painful if you didn’t know how absolutely caring and sincere he could be. Everything about Trace has you either wanting to smack him in the head or tear his clothes off and climb on. And his relationship with Hollis was on point.
Hollis was utterly unique in her world. She had spent so much time being on the outside but close enough to know how it all worked and to know that she wanted more. And Trace was so much more. I could honestly wax poetic about how much I loved this couple. Although I do have to admit I’m a little disappointed that we didn’t get more of Mirada and Noah. And I was really hoping for a little more drama from his craziness but then again what I got was pretty perfect so I am not complaining just wanting more.
Of course, getting Trace 2.0 in his brother Tripp’s story next should be just as entertaining. And we can only hope that his family will be slightly more hilarious especially since I am sure Trace will give him a hard time for coming second. I really can’t wait.
Even in his own story he was larger than life. In a way that felt like it would be painful if you didn’t know how absolutely caring and sincere he could be. Everything about Trace has you either wanting to smack him in the head or tear his clothes off and climb on. And his relationship with Hollis was on point.
Hollis was utterly unique in her world. She had spent so much time being on the outside but close enough to know how it all worked and to know that she wanted more. And Trace was so much more. I could honestly wax poetic about how much I loved this couple. Although I do have to admit I’m a little disappointed that we didn’t get more of Mirada and Noah. And I was really hoping for a little more drama from his craziness but then again what I got was pretty perfect so I am not complaining just wanting more.
Of course, getting Trace 2.0 in his brother Tripp’s story next should be just as entertaining. And we can only hope that his family will be slightly more hilarious especially since I am sure Trace will give him a hard time for coming second. I really can’t wait.
June 13, 2022
It was a cute read. Nothing special but sweet.
August 19, 2020
Hard Fall is the second book in the Trophy Boyfriends series by Sara Ney. Told in dual perspectives, this is Trace 'Buzz' Wallace and Hollis Westbrooke's story.
Now while I enjoyed the first book in this series a lot, I liked this one even more. It was a barrel full of laughs and so much fun to read. Buzz was such a sweet and hilarious hero. His antics in trying to win over the team's general manager's daughter were highly entertaining. The adorableness of these two slayed me, and I can't see anyone not absolutely loving their story.
Hollis meets Buzz when she goes to the stadium to visit her father. She accidentally gets off on the wrong floor, and this is where the two cross paths. He has no clue that she's his team's general manager's daughter, but once he finds out, that doesn't scare him off. His mom has been on his back about his love life and wanting grandbabies, and Hollis, being the girl next door type, is exactly who he needs to bring home to mom. Not to mention, he's exactly what she needs to get rid of her pesky ex.
Their mutually beneficial fake relationship was a hoot, and in time, turned into something so much more. I absolutely loved each and every second spent with these two - the banter, the sass, the laughs, the swoons. I recommend this to anyone who loves a slow burn, friends-to-lovers, sports romance that will win over your heart. Five stars for Hollis, Buzz and Hard Fall!
Now while I enjoyed the first book in this series a lot, I liked this one even more. It was a barrel full of laughs and so much fun to read. Buzz was such a sweet and hilarious hero. His antics in trying to win over the team's general manager's daughter were highly entertaining. The adorableness of these two slayed me, and I can't see anyone not absolutely loving their story.
Hollis meets Buzz when she goes to the stadium to visit her father. She accidentally gets off on the wrong floor, and this is where the two cross paths. He has no clue that she's his team's general manager's daughter, but once he finds out, that doesn't scare him off. His mom has been on his back about his love life and wanting grandbabies, and Hollis, being the girl next door type, is exactly who he needs to bring home to mom. Not to mention, he's exactly what she needs to get rid of her pesky ex.
Their mutually beneficial fake relationship was a hoot, and in time, turned into something so much more. I absolutely loved each and every second spent with these two - the banter, the sass, the laughs, the swoons. I recommend this to anyone who loves a slow burn, friends-to-lovers, sports romance that will win over your heart. Five stars for Hollis, Buzz and Hard Fall!
August 26, 2020
Review coming soon
July 9, 2022
3/4 ⭐️
Lettura molto leggera ma carina e divertente, Buzz me lo aspettavo completamente diverso ma mi ha fatto ridere molto 😄
Lettura molto leggera ma carina e divertente, Buzz me lo aspettavo completamente diverso ma mi ha fatto ridere molto 😄
October 13, 2020
3.5 stars
Better than the first book. I liked the male lead, he was such a ... i have no idea what word would describe him. But unique is one. He was childish but mature when it mattered.
It was a short, sweet read.
Better than the first book. I liked the male lead, he was such a ... i have no idea what word would describe him. But unique is one. He was childish but mature when it mattered.
It was a short, sweet read.
March 18, 2021
4.5⭐️
This is the Sara Ney I LOVE. This book is laugh out loud funny. Trace ‘Buzz’ Wallace is one of my favourite hero’s of all time. He made me laugh one minute and swoon the next. He is serious at all the right times, super sweet, funny and just the whole package. He pursued Hollis with so much confidence and never wavered in his pursuit of her.
Hollis Westbrooke is the daughter of the GM for the baseball team Buzz plays for. She is sassy, and sweet and the sexy, flirty banter between her and Buzz was the BEST! I love her outlook on life and refusal to live under her fathers thumb.
The scenes with Buzz’s family were my absolute favourite and I CANNOT wait for his brother, Tripp’s book next.
If you love sports romance with humor and steam this is your book! Highly recommend.
This is the Sara Ney I LOVE. This book is laugh out loud funny. Trace ‘Buzz’ Wallace is one of my favourite hero’s of all time. He made me laugh one minute and swoon the next. He is serious at all the right times, super sweet, funny and just the whole package. He pursued Hollis with so much confidence and never wavered in his pursuit of her.
Hollis Westbrooke is the daughter of the GM for the baseball team Buzz plays for. She is sassy, and sweet and the sexy, flirty banter between her and Buzz was the BEST! I love her outlook on life and refusal to live under her fathers thumb.
The scenes with Buzz’s family were my absolute favourite and I CANNOT wait for his brother, Tripp’s book next.
If you love sports romance with humor and steam this is your book! Highly recommend.
August 13, 2020
I love Sara Ney's stories! They are always banterific and full of sass and swoons. But while I thought Hollis and Trace's story was really cute with funny laugh out loud moments, Hard Fall was a bit of a mixed bag for me.
I enjoyed Hollis' sass, independence and wit and the endearing role reversal in the story where we see the hero's vulnerability and how he wore his heart on his sleeve. I just wish I felt more of a connection between the couple. I never really felt the swoons and butterflies in my stomach like I have with Ney's previous stories. Overall, while this story wasn't what I was expecting, I am intrigued by Tripp's story and the reason he is the way he is. 3.5 stars ~Ratula��
***
In my review of Hard Pass I said of Buzz:
I wasn't sure what to make of Buzz at first but, much like Miranda, I adored him for the lovable buffoon he was in the end. He was like a giant, overly-excitable golden retriever. Obnoxious and slobbery, but pure heart of gold. I can't wait to get my hands on his story.
Holy cow, was that description apt.
A giant, lovable golden retriever, indeed.
This guy. Equal parts perplexing and endearing, he took a bit for me to get used to. In fact, I would imagine that my emotional processing of Buzz was similar to Hollis's emotional processing of Buzz. There wasn't an immediate connection. But over time, he won me over. He was sweet and heartfelt. He was immature and buffoonish, but also steadfast and sincere. And paired with Hollis's own quirks and sassy, down-to-earth personality, it's easy to buy into their happily ever after.
That said, I didn't feel this book the way I wanted to. Here we had two likable characters in all their banterific, playful glory. But the chemistry was off for me. I enjoyed their story, but it felt like it stayed on a superficial level for me. No butterflies, no delicious ache in my heart. I think I might have liked a little more depth or complexity to these characters. It all happened so quickly and so neatly - and while I enjoyed it, it wasn't quite the emotional experience I was looking for.
Criticism aside, there were still plenty of smiles delivered over the course of this storyline, and a setup for more quirky, offbeat antics to come, and I can't wait to see what's in store! ~ Shelly, 3 stars
I enjoyed Hollis' sass, independence and wit and the endearing role reversal in the story where we see the hero's vulnerability and how he wore his heart on his sleeve. I just wish I felt more of a connection between the couple. I never really felt the swoons and butterflies in my stomach like I have with Ney's previous stories. Overall, while this story wasn't what I was expecting, I am intrigued by Tripp's story and the reason he is the way he is. 3.5 stars ~Ratula��
***
In my review of Hard Pass I said of Buzz:
I wasn't sure what to make of Buzz at first but, much like Miranda, I adored him for the lovable buffoon he was in the end. He was like a giant, overly-excitable golden retriever. Obnoxious and slobbery, but pure heart of gold. I can't wait to get my hands on his story.
Holy cow, was that description apt.
A giant, lovable golden retriever, indeed.
This guy. Equal parts perplexing and endearing, he took a bit for me to get used to. In fact, I would imagine that my emotional processing of Buzz was similar to Hollis's emotional processing of Buzz. There wasn't an immediate connection. But over time, he won me over. He was sweet and heartfelt. He was immature and buffoonish, but also steadfast and sincere. And paired with Hollis's own quirks and sassy, down-to-earth personality, it's easy to buy into their happily ever after.
That said, I didn't feel this book the way I wanted to. Here we had two likable characters in all their banterific, playful glory. But the chemistry was off for me. I enjoyed their story, but it felt like it stayed on a superficial level for me. No butterflies, no delicious ache in my heart. I think I might have liked a little more depth or complexity to these characters. It all happened so quickly and so neatly - and while I enjoyed it, it wasn't quite the emotional experience I was looking for.
Criticism aside, there were still plenty of smiles delivered over the course of this storyline, and a setup for more quirky, offbeat antics to come, and I can't wait to see what's in store! ~ Shelly, 3 stars
September 5, 2020
4.5 ⭐
I wasn't very fond of Trace (aka Buzz) in Hard Pass. He came across cocky and a jerk. A player that every woman would want and if you didn't something was obviously wrong with you and not him.
Man OH MAN did he make me fall for him in this book though. He was a swoony and funny baseball player. He wanted to earn the love of his perfect lady. His family was so fun and meddled in everything in his life. The banter between him and his brother was awesome!
Hollis was just that for him... Perfect! They fit together like a a baseball mitt and ball. It took her a bit to realize that Trace was different from all the athletic players she knew, like her ex boyfriend... but once she understood that was in it for the long haul and not just the easy play, it was on.
I do feel like the end was a bit rushed though. I wanted to see a bit more relationship development. I think both characters deserved that. There chemistry was great, but I wanted a bit more depth. They were worth it my opinion.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this sassy rom-com and can't wait until book 3!
I wasn't very fond of Trace (aka Buzz) in Hard Pass. He came across cocky and a jerk. A player that every woman would want and if you didn't something was obviously wrong with you and not him.
Man OH MAN did he make me fall for him in this book though. He was a swoony and funny baseball player. He wanted to earn the love of his perfect lady. His family was so fun and meddled in everything in his life. The banter between him and his brother was awesome!
Hollis was just that for him... Perfect! They fit together like a a baseball mitt and ball. It took her a bit to realize that Trace was different from all the athletic players she knew, like her ex boyfriend... but once she understood that was in it for the long haul and not just the easy play, it was on.
I do feel like the end was a bit rushed though. I wanted to see a bit more relationship development. I think both characters deserved that. There chemistry was great, but I wanted a bit more depth. They were worth it my opinion.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this sassy rom-com and can't wait until book 3!
September 22, 2020
4 stars...This book had me literally laughing out loud. It's full of goofball comedy gold, and I loved almost all of it. There were some parts at around the half way point that I'm still giggling about.
The hero and heroine meet and enter into a fake relationship. He's a professional baseball player and she's the GM's daughter. She doesn't want to date another baseball player because the last one she dated was a total d-bag and left her feeling used. It's a little predictable in the beginning, but gets so much better. The hero then poses as her bf when the heroine's ex approaches her at an event. He's very interested in her and cajoles and manipulates the situation to get her to go with him to a team event. He then convinces her to go with him to meet his family and pose as his gf. She does all of this under a bit of duress...but it's all very funny.
The humor just keeps getting better and better from there. Seriously, this is a funny book and very worth the read.
Safe; it's a little unclear when the hero was a manwhore...was it yesterday or years ago? I'm not sure. He claims to have been celibate for a while, but some of the things he says are a little questionable (maybe just passing comments about the past). I wasn't really sure what to think. Either way, heroine wasn't a virgin, and hero is pretty awesome overall. Heroine's ex tries to cause some drama, but nothing major.
The hero and heroine meet and enter into a fake relationship. He's a professional baseball player and she's the GM's daughter. She doesn't want to date another baseball player because the last one she dated was a total d-bag and left her feeling used. It's a little predictable in the beginning, but gets so much better. The hero then poses as her bf when the heroine's ex approaches her at an event. He's very interested in her and cajoles and manipulates the situation to get her to go with him to a team event. He then convinces her to go with him to meet his family and pose as his gf. She does all of this under a bit of duress...but it's all very funny.
“Oh my god your mother is adorable,” Hollis is saying. “Jesus, I hate lying and I hate you right now. Look how excited she is, you asshole.” She pushes her car door open and steps out. “Mrs. Wallace, hiiiiii!”
Women. I’ll never understand them.
The humor just keeps getting better and better from there. Seriously, this is a funny book and very worth the read.
Safe; it's a little unclear when the hero was a manwhore...was it yesterday or years ago? I'm not sure. He claims to have been celibate for a while, but some of the things he says are a little questionable (maybe just passing comments about the past). I wasn't really sure what to think. Either way, heroine wasn't a virgin, and hero is pretty awesome overall. Heroine's ex tries to cause some drama, but nothing major.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2023
Trace is too much!!!
I absolutely LOVE this book! I didn't think too much of Trace in the first book, but in his book he was outstanding. We get to see more sides of Trace than the freeloading friend of Harding. I'm surprised at the many layers of Trace that is unexpected and adorable. I also really like Hollis, but for me, in this book, Trace stole the show. Cute romance and utterly hilarious!
I absolutely LOVE this book! I didn't think too much of Trace in the first book, but in his book he was outstanding. We get to see more sides of Trace than the freeloading friend of Harding. I'm surprised at the many layers of Trace that is unexpected and adorable. I also really like Hollis, but for me, in this book, Trace stole the show. Cute romance and utterly hilarious!
January 7, 2022
If I didn't already have some books I loved by this author...
I don't know if I would ever read another one.
Like... WTF was this book?
Nope. Nope. NOPE.
2.5/5 stars
I don't know if I would ever read another one.
Like... WTF was this book?
Nope. Nope. NOPE.
2.5/5 stars
August 21, 2020
Buzz is the book boyfriend I hadn’t expected… But now he is my soulmate *swoon*
When I was reading Hard Pass, I liked Buzz, I thought he was funny and cutely annoying, but I couldn’t imagine an epic love story for him, I was seeing him as too much of a goof or a flirt. How wrong was I…. Trace (aka Buzz) is the ultimate romantic! He is so darn cute and sensitive while being HILARIOUS, you could make a joke book with only the nicknames he gives to Hollis, but the funniest thing is not what he says, but what he does (read the book and you’ll get it). Hollis… She is so sassy but so sweet at the same time, she is a book lover and Trace knows exactly what to do to win the heart of this junior publisher.
When I first read their “meet-cute” (that was sarcastic FYI), I had no idea that their story was actually going to be pretty darn cute! I think that what I love the most in Sara Ney’s books is how naturally the love story develops. There is no big revelation or the characters do not magically change for the best, they are just who they are and they fall in love (and let me tell you, Trace does not change one bit from the first page of the book to the last, you just learn so much about this big goof).
For people who adore drama in romance, you might be disappointed. For the others who are OBSESSED with Sara Ney’s low drama books? You’ve just found your next favourite read. I absolutely hate drama, I believe some books would be so much better without it, so you can only imagine how much I love all of Sara Ney’s romance stories.
For a tiny bit of criticism, as for Hard Pass, it was way too short! Sara?! How can you do this to us? I needed at least 200 more pages of Trace and Hollis!
Therefore, if you are looking for a story that will melt your heart and your panties… Hard Fall and Trace Wallace are made for you!
*ARC reveived in exchange for an honest review*
When I was reading Hard Pass, I liked Buzz, I thought he was funny and cutely annoying, but I couldn’t imagine an epic love story for him, I was seeing him as too much of a goof or a flirt. How wrong was I…. Trace (aka Buzz) is the ultimate romantic! He is so darn cute and sensitive while being HILARIOUS, you could make a joke book with only the nicknames he gives to Hollis, but the funniest thing is not what he says, but what he does (read the book and you’ll get it). Hollis… She is so sassy but so sweet at the same time, she is a book lover and Trace knows exactly what to do to win the heart of this junior publisher.
When I first read their “meet-cute” (that was sarcastic FYI), I had no idea that their story was actually going to be pretty darn cute! I think that what I love the most in Sara Ney’s books is how naturally the love story develops. There is no big revelation or the characters do not magically change for the best, they are just who they are and they fall in love (and let me tell you, Trace does not change one bit from the first page of the book to the last, you just learn so much about this big goof).
For people who adore drama in romance, you might be disappointed. For the others who are OBSESSED with Sara Ney’s low drama books? You’ve just found your next favourite read. I absolutely hate drama, I believe some books would be so much better without it, so you can only imagine how much I love all of Sara Ney’s romance stories.
For a tiny bit of criticism, as for Hard Pass, it was way too short! Sara?! How can you do this to us? I needed at least 200 more pages of Trace and Hollis!
Therefore, if you are looking for a story that will melt your heart and your panties… Hard Fall and Trace Wallace are made for you!
*ARC reveived in exchange for an honest review*
August 17, 2020
4.5 stars!
Oh, what a fun read! Sweet, sexy and laugh-out-loud funny, this playful sports romance is a great read with a gorgeous love story, and I loved it!
Trace “Buzz” Wallace was introduced in the first book of this series as the annoyingly over-familiar best friend to Noah (but note that this book can easily be read as a standalone). Trace is a professional baseball player who is as well known for playing off the field as he is for his skill on the field. He doesn’t have the greatest reputation, but deep down he’s a sweet guy who has had enough of the sports groupies and is trying to move on from his past, and who wants to find a nice girl to bring home to his mother and build a life with.
Hollis Westbrooke is the daughter of the General Manager of Trace’s baseball team. She has a difficult relationship with her father and has removed herself from the family business as much as she can. When she first meets Trace, she is less than impressed, and she rejects him when he hits on her. But later, he comes to her rescue by pretending to be her boyfriend, and she gets sucked into this sort-of fake relationship, sort-of friendship dynamic which is fun and hugely entertaining – especially because she wants nothing to do with ball players, and Trace is about to get all up in her life.
Trace is freaking hilarious. An overgrown man-child, he’s immature in so many ways, but he’s also so sweet with the biggest heart, and he totally wears his heart on his sleeve. I laughed over and over at his antics with Hollis, and with his family, but at the heart of him is a man who wants a family, he wants to settle down, and he wants to win Hollis’ heart.
These two are a fantastic match. Their dynamic is fun, flirty, and full of teasing, they don’t hide their attraction, they’re open about what they want and what they don’t want, and though Hollis may not necessary want a relationship with Trace, she doesn’t resist too strongly. Things progress naturally and easily between them, watching them navigate their situation and all that they’re feeling is so entertaining, and I loved their dirty/sexy/playful relationship.
But there is also a lot of emotion there, and those moments where you can see just how deeply they care for each other are just beautiful!
It’s a great set-up, and watching it all unfold is so much fun. I laughed so much while reading this book, and I could feel Trace and Hollis gradually falling for each other, which was beautiful to watch.
Noah and Miranda from the first book appear, and we get to see lots of Trace’s brother, Tripp, who will be the hero in the next book of the series. Equally immature but way more serious and closed off, I’m really looking forward to his story.
This is a great read. Lots of fun with a fantastically funny romance and lots of heart, I loved it.
4.5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Oh, what a fun read! Sweet, sexy and laugh-out-loud funny, this playful sports romance is a great read with a gorgeous love story, and I loved it!
Trace “Buzz” Wallace was introduced in the first book of this series as the annoyingly over-familiar best friend to Noah (but note that this book can easily be read as a standalone). Trace is a professional baseball player who is as well known for playing off the field as he is for his skill on the field. He doesn’t have the greatest reputation, but deep down he’s a sweet guy who has had enough of the sports groupies and is trying to move on from his past, and who wants to find a nice girl to bring home to his mother and build a life with.
Hollis Westbrooke is the daughter of the General Manager of Trace’s baseball team. She has a difficult relationship with her father and has removed herself from the family business as much as she can. When she first meets Trace, she is less than impressed, and she rejects him when he hits on her. But later, he comes to her rescue by pretending to be her boyfriend, and she gets sucked into this sort-of fake relationship, sort-of friendship dynamic which is fun and hugely entertaining – especially because she wants nothing to do with ball players, and Trace is about to get all up in her life.
Trace is freaking hilarious. An overgrown man-child, he’s immature in so many ways, but he’s also so sweet with the biggest heart, and he totally wears his heart on his sleeve. I laughed over and over at his antics with Hollis, and with his family, but at the heart of him is a man who wants a family, he wants to settle down, and he wants to win Hollis’ heart.
These two are a fantastic match. Their dynamic is fun, flirty, and full of teasing, they don’t hide their attraction, they’re open about what they want and what they don’t want, and though Hollis may not necessary want a relationship with Trace, she doesn’t resist too strongly. Things progress naturally and easily between them, watching them navigate their situation and all that they’re feeling is so entertaining, and I loved their dirty/sexy/playful relationship.
“I’m very fertile,” Hollis informs me, flipping her hair back. “You should stay as far away from these ovaries as you can unless you want me showing up on your doorstep in nine months.” She rubs her belly in slow circles and I feel myself hardening.
I’ll fucking put a baby in that sexy stomach.
“Is that supposed to be a turn-off? Because I just came in my pants twice.” Pause. “Congratulations, you’re having twins.”
But there is also a lot of emotion there, and those moments where you can see just how deeply they care for each other are just beautiful!
It’s a great set-up, and watching it all unfold is so much fun. I laughed so much while reading this book, and I could feel Trace and Hollis gradually falling for each other, which was beautiful to watch.
Noah and Miranda from the first book appear, and we get to see lots of Trace’s brother, Tripp, who will be the hero in the next book of the series. Equally immature but way more serious and closed off, I’m really looking forward to his story.
This is a great read. Lots of fun with a fantastically funny romance and lots of heart, I loved it.
4.5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2020
Definitely a grower! Really enjoyed the silly humoured hero.
October 28, 2020
4.5/5
This book made me laugh so much
This book made me laugh so much
January 17, 2021
I know that maybe some of you are perplexed with why I keep reading Sara Ney. ME too! I mean, seriously, the height and weight of her athletes should be frustrating enough that I have given up all together (here a 6'3 pitcher tipping the scales at 260, just like his brother (a football player, position TBD), but to be quite honest, she wrote an NA book that has remained one of the stickiest I've ever read in a good way. So I feel like between that and her quick reads, I'll probably always give her a chance. Because of Zeke and Violet.
The hero of this book, Trace, is more like an Oz, but a little less...asshole/douchey? He's a super annoying gregarious type, but he has a heart of gold and an earnest desire for a family. He's lonely, he loves his family, and he pretty much just wedges himself into people's lives.
Hollis is not my favorite Hollis, because that's this Hollis but I did like this one quite a bit too. She played a nice complement without being totally overshadowed by Trace, which is no small feat.
So this was pretty satisfying all-in-all. If you read Sara Ney, you'll probably already realize they are very couple-centric, to the the detriment of her storytelling overall. This is okay but I always want a little more characterization outside the couple. still, this was effervescent in that way that made me happy and let me escape for a few hours, and reminded me why I keep reading this author. It was cute. And ridiculous.
November 14, 2022
3 stelle e 1/2
💋Recensione per il blog New Adult e dintorni💋
Una vecchia conoscenza dello sport Romance, Sara Ney torna con la serie Ragazzi trofeo. Il baseball diventa hot con un protagonista che avevamo bramato durante la lettura del primo capitolo della serie, sfrontato e peccaminoso. Buzz ci regala un’imprevedibile storia d’amore con la figlia del suo dirigente, la nerd Hollis.
Trace Wallace è da tutti conosciuto come Buzz, alquanto invadente, rude ma terribilmente sexy si diverte a fare il Cupido tra i compagni di squadra. Ma cosa succede quando lui stesso sperimenterà l’amore con la A maiuscola? Non verrà preso sul serio, soprattutto perché la fortunata è la figlia del capo dei Chicago Steam. Non potrebbe essere più diversa da lui Hollis, ma è tutta apparenza perché lui ha tutte le carte in regola per essere un insospettabile perfetto fidanzato. Grazie anche a una passione per la lettura che lo renderà così attraente agli occhi del topo da biblioteca che è Hollis.
‘Un giocatore. Ecco cos’è Trace “Buzz” Wallace, e farò bene a ricordarmelo. Tuttavia, ha sul serio provato a essere il mio cavaliere dall’armatura scintillante... peccato che fosse avvolto nella carta d’alluminio.’
Hollis Westbrooke è una editor junior per una piccola casa editrice ed è contenta di camminare sulle sue gambe, il padre è un borioso ricco dirigente che non la degna di affetto, per lui son importanti solo le apparenze. Ha una brutta esperienza alle spalle con un giocatore di baseball, quindi quando si imbatte nel quartier generale del padre nel troglodita Buzz si allontana senza voltarsi indietro. Ma il destino per loro ci mette lo zampino e una finta liaison sarà l’occasione per lei per andare oltre e vedere nel pallone gonfiato Buzz molto ma molto di più di quello che tutti vedono.
‘Hollis è la mia miglior partita. Una che non devo giocare.’
L’aspettavo, Buzz mi aveva incuriosita e non vedevo l’ora di conoscere la sua storia e di come la Ney l’avrebbe reso ancora più sexy e divertente. Diciamo che le aspettative sono state solo in parte ricompensate. Buzz si è confermato un ragazzo con la testa sulle spalle, pronto a fare le cose sul serio con la ragazza giusta e anche se lei l’ha respinto più di una volta lui ha tenuto duro e alla fine ce l’ha fatta a conquistarla. Mi è mancata la parte divertente che si era intravista precedentemente e dalla Ney mi aspetto di più. Sì, quando Buzz battibecca con il fratello Tripp ci sono parti esilaranti ma il tutto rimane un po’ superficiale e il sorriso non si estende alle risate. Anche la parte hot, emblema di quest’autrice, con lui poteva raggiungere l'apoteosi invece è rimasta ad un livello più che sufficiente ma niente di più.
Insomma non un giudizio entusiastico il mio, una lettura veloce, senza pretese.
Nel prossimo capitolo ci sarà proprio il fratello Tripp, gloria del football, altro sportivo sexy e rude, vedremo.
💋Recensione per il blog New Adult e dintorni💋
Una vecchia conoscenza dello sport Romance, Sara Ney torna con la serie Ragazzi trofeo. Il baseball diventa hot con un protagonista che avevamo bramato durante la lettura del primo capitolo della serie, sfrontato e peccaminoso. Buzz ci regala un’imprevedibile storia d’amore con la figlia del suo dirigente, la nerd Hollis.
Trace Wallace è da tutti conosciuto come Buzz, alquanto invadente, rude ma terribilmente sexy si diverte a fare il Cupido tra i compagni di squadra. Ma cosa succede quando lui stesso sperimenterà l’amore con la A maiuscola? Non verrà preso sul serio, soprattutto perché la fortunata è la figlia del capo dei Chicago Steam. Non potrebbe essere più diversa da lui Hollis, ma è tutta apparenza perché lui ha tutte le carte in regola per essere un insospettabile perfetto fidanzato. Grazie anche a una passione per la lettura che lo renderà così attraente agli occhi del topo da biblioteca che è Hollis.
‘Un giocatore. Ecco cos’è Trace “Buzz” Wallace, e farò bene a ricordarmelo. Tuttavia, ha sul serio provato a essere il mio cavaliere dall’armatura scintillante... peccato che fosse avvolto nella carta d’alluminio.’
Hollis Westbrooke è una editor junior per una piccola casa editrice ed è contenta di camminare sulle sue gambe, il padre è un borioso ricco dirigente che non la degna di affetto, per lui son importanti solo le apparenze. Ha una brutta esperienza alle spalle con un giocatore di baseball, quindi quando si imbatte nel quartier generale del padre nel troglodita Buzz si allontana senza voltarsi indietro. Ma il destino per loro ci mette lo zampino e una finta liaison sarà l’occasione per lei per andare oltre e vedere nel pallone gonfiato Buzz molto ma molto di più di quello che tutti vedono.
‘Hollis è la mia miglior partita. Una che non devo giocare.’
L’aspettavo, Buzz mi aveva incuriosita e non vedevo l’ora di conoscere la sua storia e di come la Ney l’avrebbe reso ancora più sexy e divertente. Diciamo che le aspettative sono state solo in parte ricompensate. Buzz si è confermato un ragazzo con la testa sulle spalle, pronto a fare le cose sul serio con la ragazza giusta e anche se lei l’ha respinto più di una volta lui ha tenuto duro e alla fine ce l’ha fatta a conquistarla. Mi è mancata la parte divertente che si era intravista precedentemente e dalla Ney mi aspetto di più. Sì, quando Buzz battibecca con il fratello Tripp ci sono parti esilaranti ma il tutto rimane un po’ superficiale e il sorriso non si estende alle risate. Anche la parte hot, emblema di quest’autrice, con lui poteva raggiungere l'apoteosi invece è rimasta ad un livello più che sufficiente ma niente di più.
Insomma non un giudizio entusiastico il mio, una lettura veloce, senza pretese.
Nel prossimo capitolo ci sarà proprio il fratello Tripp, gloria del football, altro sportivo sexy e rude, vedremo.
Want to read
August 20, 20205 The Best Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
What makes a book feel like the best, one that causes you to have a smile on your face the entire time you are reading it. The one that makes you laugh out loud and want to text someone about how terrific this book is.
Sarah Ney hits this out of the park on every level for me. It had heart, humor, enough depth, and steam. I really was so taken by it from the start. Trace and his entire family was over the top but worked with the type of cray cray they were. Hollis' family issues made sense and worked to provide a contrast to Trace's.
If you love rom/com and sports, then this is your series.
Hard Pass (Trophy Boyfriends, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Fall (Trophy Boyfriends, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
What makes a book feel like the best, one that causes you to have a smile on your face the entire time you are reading it. The one that makes you laugh out loud and want to text someone about how terrific this book is.
Sarah Ney hits this out of the park on every level for me. It had heart, humor, enough depth, and steam. I really was so taken by it from the start. Trace and his entire family was over the top but worked with the type of cray cray they were. Hollis' family issues made sense and worked to provide a contrast to Trace's.
If you love rom/com and sports, then this is your series.
Hard Pass (Trophy Boyfriends, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Fall (Trophy Boyfriends, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hard Love (Trophy Boyfriends, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 18, 2020
Hard Fall is the second book in Ney's Trophy Boyfriends. It's Trace "Buzz" Wallace's story and can easily be read as a standalone.
I truly enjoyed reading this story. Literally laughed and smiled my whole way through this one. It is chocked full of humor with a perfect blend of romance and baseball. The humor was never over the top and fit these characters so well and rounded out the plot perfectly.
Buzz and Hollis meet at the stadium unexpectedly. They don't exactly have the best run-in but it's hilarious to watch play out. This whole book was chocked full of hilarious moments and really getting to see there is more than surface level to people.
Buzz is not your typical baseball player and readers will see that when they read this story. Hollis is a bit abrasive but it's not off-putting. These two are truly one of my favorite couples to read. If you have read any of my reviews before, you already know this but I am not a fan of insta-love. But Hard Fall – it's impossible to not see it and believe it.
Hard Fall is fast paced read but it's so authentic and comes across so real. I loved Buzz and Hollis and their interactions so much. There isn't a thing that I would change about this book. I love how Sara ends all her stories – we get an epilogue but it's not too far off in the future and keeps it real.
I truly enjoyed reading this story. Literally laughed and smiled my whole way through this one. It is chocked full of humor with a perfect blend of romance and baseball. The humor was never over the top and fit these characters so well and rounded out the plot perfectly.
Buzz and Hollis meet at the stadium unexpectedly. They don't exactly have the best run-in but it's hilarious to watch play out. This whole book was chocked full of hilarious moments and really getting to see there is more than surface level to people.
Buzz is not your typical baseball player and readers will see that when they read this story. Hollis is a bit abrasive but it's not off-putting. These two are truly one of my favorite couples to read. If you have read any of my reviews before, you already know this but I am not a fan of insta-love. But Hard Fall – it's impossible to not see it and believe it.
Hard Fall is fast paced read but it's so authentic and comes across so real. I loved Buzz and Hollis and their interactions so much. There isn't a thing that I would change about this book. I love how Sara ends all her stories – we get an epilogue but it's not too far off in the future and keeps it real.
August 18, 2020
After meeting Trace Wallace in HARD PASS I couldn’t wait to get to his book, and I have to telly you that it was everything I’d hoped it to be and more. Trace is a funny one...he come across as a bit of an airhead and a lot slutty, but once you really get to know him you can’t help but fall in love with the person that he really is.
HARD FALL had me laughing so hard and I adore the banter between Trace & Hollis. I’m a huge fan of Sara Ney’s “How to Date...” series, but honestly, I think this has become my new favourite.
HARD FALL had me laughing so hard and I adore the banter between Trace & Hollis. I’m a huge fan of Sara Ney’s “How to Date...” series, but honestly, I think this has become my new favourite.
September 9, 2020
This book was just what I needed to get over my Ilona Andrews-Emerald Blaze hangover. And that's all because of Trace, the hero in this book. Trace is an adorable goofball and I just loved him! Oh man, he made me laugh so much.
This story was so totally different from Emerald Blaze and had just the right amount (imo) of absurd comedy without resorting to hi-jinks or stupid situations that I hate. Just great, witty and funny banter between and because of the MC's.
I thought it was the perfect low-angst, light rom com!
This story was so totally different from Emerald Blaze and had just the right amount (imo) of absurd comedy without resorting to hi-jinks or stupid situations that I hate. Just great, witty and funny banter between and because of the MC's.
I thought it was the perfect low-angst, light rom com!
September 25, 2020
I really enjoyed Hard Fall Hollis and Trace are funny and cute and I'm excited for 3th book.
August 19, 2020
5 Stars!
BUZZ IS UP FOR BAT!
Sara Ney is back with the second standalone in the Trophy Boyfriends series and y'all, I was here for it all. We met our hero, the infamous, hilarious, slightly (LOL!!) intrusive Trace "Buzz" in the first book in this series and I was positively buzzing for his story and guess what? EPIC in every single way that is Sara Ney magic.
Hard Fall was just that... a hard fall for the guy who falls for the one girl who wanted nothing to do with him... at first. From the moment she said no thanks, nothing would ever be the same for them going forward.
This book was packed with so much to the brims. A budding friendship turning into so much more. Unforgettable stolen moments they'll never forget. Bigger feelings than neither expected but here they are. Charming swoon that'll give you all the heart eyes. Combustible chemistry that'll have you begging for them to slip between the sheets NOW!
This is one hero that doesn't give up, period. He's trying for a home run with this girl and he won't let anyone or anything get in his way... not her, himself, his old player ways or more specifically... her dad.
Steamy. Swoony. Sweet. Laugh out loud. Fun. All of the VERY best feels in the VERY best ways. The perfect afternoon read that'll have you smiling, from start to finish. Buzz and Hollis lit up my kindle from the FIRST moment they stepped onto the page and I couldn't put their journey down until long after the pages quit turning.
Sara Ney is a master with her words and she knows how to do it up BIG with every single new release. The Trophy Boyfriends series started brilliantly in book one and kept the momentum for book two and I can't wait for more with these characters.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
BUZZ IS UP FOR BAT!
Sara Ney is back with the second standalone in the Trophy Boyfriends series and y'all, I was here for it all. We met our hero, the infamous, hilarious, slightly (LOL!!) intrusive Trace "Buzz" in the first book in this series and I was positively buzzing for his story and guess what? EPIC in every single way that is Sara Ney magic.
Hard Fall was just that... a hard fall for the guy who falls for the one girl who wanted nothing to do with him... at first. From the moment she said no thanks, nothing would ever be the same for them going forward.
This book was packed with so much to the brims. A budding friendship turning into so much more. Unforgettable stolen moments they'll never forget. Bigger feelings than neither expected but here they are. Charming swoon that'll give you all the heart eyes. Combustible chemistry that'll have you begging for them to slip between the sheets NOW!
This is one hero that doesn't give up, period. He's trying for a home run with this girl and he won't let anyone or anything get in his way... not her, himself, his old player ways or more specifically... her dad.
Steamy. Swoony. Sweet. Laugh out loud. Fun. All of the VERY best feels in the VERY best ways. The perfect afternoon read that'll have you smiling, from start to finish. Buzz and Hollis lit up my kindle from the FIRST moment they stepped onto the page and I couldn't put their journey down until long after the pages quit turning.
Sara Ney is a master with her words and she knows how to do it up BIG with every single new release. The Trophy Boyfriends series started brilliantly in book one and kept the momentum for book two and I can't wait for more with these characters.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
August 18, 2020
OMG! I just can’t.
I love Trace “Buzz” Wallace so much!
I want to fold him up and keep him in my back pocket for a rainy day!
Is there anything hotter than a sexy, silly, man with a body to die for who also happens to be a professional athlete?
The answer is No!
Trace is a mamma’s boy and he’s such a sweetheart. You will adore his dorkiness and snort laugh at the things that fly out of his mouth. His relationship with his brother Tripp is hilarious and his family in general is certifiable in the most loving way possible.
Hollis is Trace’s boss’s daughter. They meet at the stadium and she is not the least bit impressed by him. Hollis is far from the spoiled rich girl. She’s independent and strong willed and doing her best at avoiding her father’s machinations.
Trace and Hollis have stupid hot chemistry that can’t be ignored, although, Hollis tries desperately to do just that. The girl is in serious denial and doesn’t stand a snowflake’s chance in hell of resisting the silly, sexy, man.
In a series of hilarious events, they end up pretending to be dating and one thing leads to another and things get real, quick.
The good girl and the (not) bad boy end up together and their sweet happily ever after will leave you chuckling and looking forward to the next book in the series.
Do yourself a favor and make sure to TBR Hard Pass, the first book, so you get the full Buzz effect (*wink wink*)!!!! Enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 538 reviews