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Tackling Romance #1

Tackling Love

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Colton Anders.
Quarterback for the New England Warriors.
Playboy, cocky, self-assured, used to getting what he wants.

Skye Hadley.
Teacher at a high-profile private school.
Quiet, plays it safe, dedicated employee.

Unexpectedly, their worlds collide.
Colton tempts Skye, and she throws caution to the wind and takes him home.
Unknowingly propelling herself into a world filled with fans, media and lots of attention.

The media attention is grueling, but the chemistry is undeniable. Vulnerable in lust, Skye wants nothing more than to give in to her heart’s desires.

149 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 24, 2020

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About the author

Kathleen Kelly

50 books1,185 followers
Kathleen Kelly was born in Penrith, NSW, Australia. When she was four her family moved to Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Although born in NSW she considers herself a QUEENSLANDER!!

She married her childhood sweetheart and they live in Toowoomba.

If you have any questions please e-mail: kathleenkellyauthor@gmail.com

AMAZON ➔ http://amzn.to/2pLAFxT

FACEBOOK ➔ https://www.facebook.com/kathleenkell...

WEBSITE ➔ http://kathleenkellyauthor.com

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5 stars
148 (33%)
4 stars
140 (31%)
3 stars
94 (21%)
2 stars
36 (8%)
1 star
25 (5%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Brooke — brooklynnnnereads.
1,089 reviews256 followers
August 20, 2020
As someone who reads a fair share of novels categorized as sports romance, I was very hopeful for this novel. However, I expected way more from this story and was left feeling disappointed.

From the beginning of the novel, there was something that was ‘off’. I’m all for a romance that features a one night stand but prior to it occurring, there really was no introduction to any of the characters. If done well, I may have been able to look past that but unfortunately, it wasn’t done well and it all went downhill from there.

As there was no real introduction between the main characters, there really was a disconnect in the romance from the start (for me at least). Again, I’m all for a story that is fantastical and doesn’t relate to reality but it felt like this novel was supposed to. For such a deep and meaningful relationship to develop from nothing seemed unbelievable.

Related to that, although I’m a huge fan of cheesy romance, this one didn’t seem to make sense. Instead of a romance developing, it felt that the characters went from being absolute strangers to being in love with little story involved.

Luckily it was a short and fast read but unfortunately it wouldn’t be one that I would recommend.

***Thank you to Give Me Books Promotions as well as the author Kathleen Kelly for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for Laura.
2,421 reviews115 followers
August 5, 2020
***ARC Provided by the Author***

DNF at 11%

I get it, authors have a story they want to tell and in their minds it goes a certain way. And that is literally what writing a book is...telling a story the author wants to tell.

But, it has to work, to be at least a little believable, as if I find myself thinking "what?" or being pulled from the story because an action is odd or abrupt, it's an issue.

Colton and Skye meet in a bar while she's on a bad date. After about 4 sentences of interaction and in a scene that doesn't flow at all, she ends up taking him home with her.

After their night together, she throws him out of her house and onto her porch, in his underwear, because she doesn't give him time to put on his clothes.

After a few minor mishaps getting dressed, he ends up getting a ride home with the reporter...who followed them to Skye's house from the bar.

And, all of these scenes are written in such a way that they felt like they were tossed at me without being thought out, they were strangely pulled together and don't feel like the same characters or the same book from scene to scene, so I decided this book was one I wouldn't be finishing.

I'm unable to recommend this title.
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews351 followers
August 18, 2020
-Marie, ☆☆☆☆

From the first few pages, I was cheering for Colt and Skye. I love when a women can take charge and go for what she wants.

Colt, a famous NFL quarterback, had a cocky, playboy ego. Everyone knew him and he quite enjoyed the perks. Until he met a beautiful woman who had no clue that he was Colt Anders. That was part of the instant attraction. He knew from the first moment he laid eyes on her that he had to know her.

Skye Hadley a smart, sassy kindergarten teacher had no clue one bad date would find her a lifetime of heartbreak, and happiness. She was content with her job, home and her life. She met a guy who made her feel things. Then his stardom ended up putting a damper on what she earned.

All it took to know was Skyes the limit!
Profile Image for Kelly Williams.
1,037 reviews22 followers
November 29, 2020
Colt and Skye meet after a bad date. They definitely have chemistry and it takes off from there. I loved that Skye wasn't your typical sports GF and had a brain. She also had no idea who he was which made me chuckle! Was a great read I definitely recommend!!
2,053 reviews77 followers
August 15, 2020
4 1/2 stars
What a wonderful romance this story is with it’s strong characters and their sizzling chemistry. The supporting characters are just as interesting as well. Once you start this story you will find it hard to put it down, I did!

Skye Hadley is twenty-five and a dedicated teacher of kindergarten children. She meets Colton Anders, the quarterback for the New England Warriors, at a bar when on a date with a less than charming father of one of the children at her school.

Skye is a strong, confident woman who has a good sense of fun, she doesn’t see herself as anything special and at first isn’t sure why someone like Colt would be interested in her. Colt Is an all round hunk but he knows it and can be very arrogant, although underneath that, there is a lot more depth to him. Together they make one heck of a couple, I loved how things weren’t all rosy, more ‘real life’. Relationships are hard; this is portrayed really well in the book and one reason why I gave it the extra half a star.

Special mention should go to a gorgeous character, Beau, he is one big, beautiful dog with a heart just as enormous. But... he definitely shouldn’t eat pizza! 😆 This is one of the less subtle humorous scenes and so hilarious. Throughout the story there are some great lighthearted moments that have you chuckling and another reason this story deserves an extra half a star. There are certainly some serious elements throughout the story that are handled well.

I am delighted to know that there will be another book about Gray, Colt’s friend and it is shaping up to be one terrific story from the tempting bits that were at the end of this book. Of late, Ms Kelly has certainly stretched her wings into more than the MC romance genre and we readers are the lucky ones too!
Profile Image for Red Hot Romance Blog.
497 reviews31 followers
August 17, 2020
* I received an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review *

I had such a hard time putting to words how I was feeling about this book. I was excited to read this book after reading the book blurb and of course after looking at that cover. Unfortunately that is where my excitement ended. Every so often a book comes along that just misses the mark for me and this book was one of them. The bones of the plot and characters were there but it just did not come together like it should have.

First, I do not understand the way Skye is acting towards Colton. You kick him out of your house and do not even let him get dressed. Whether you know he is famous or not at least let the man put clothes on. Also, I do not understand why having a teacher date a professional athlete would be frowned upon. In the blurb it talks about Colton being cocky and a playboy but we never got a chance to see that side of him before they met so I did not get that feeling from him at all. Granted at times his celebrity personality showed but to me he seemed like a nice southern gentleman.

Their relationship was awkward and came out of nowhere. I do not understand how we went from a one night stand and kicked out to being in a relationship. I could not connect with either character in any way. There were a lot of gaps in the story that needed more details or even to be explored more for the reader to make this story flow better. It just seemed like I was watching a cheesy romance movie with bad acting.
Profile Image for Doris.
2,801 reviews113 followers
August 19, 2020
Sweet Romance

Colton is the star quarterback who’s eyes catch on a damsel in distress at a bar one night. The beautiful kindergarten teacher at a private school has no idea who the famous Colton even is and Colton finds this very surprising and refreshing. Skye had to sign a contract at this prestigious school saying she will not bring any bad publicity that would affect the school. So when a photographer catches Colton outside of Skye’s house being removed in only his underwear Skye’s job is on the line.

The relationship and chemistry between Colton and Sky is unmistakable. Can Skye actually deal with the whole fame thing that follows Colton or will it be just too much for her to handle. This is a make you feel good sports romance with plenty of spark. I would recommend this book for all the sports romance fans out there.
Profile Image for Latifa Morrisette.
2,472 reviews61 followers
July 31, 2020
Kathleen Kelly may be known for her MC series but getting to read a sports romance from her is awesome. Colton and Skye definitely have their fumbles in love but when it's all said and done they can't deny their feelings anymore. I most certainly can't wait to read more from this series.
Profile Image for Melena.
2,846 reviews70 followers
August 9, 2020
While the blurb sounded promising, ultimately this book was not for me.

I did not like the hero, Colton, for the majority of the book. He seemed to vacillate between being self centered and making huge gestures to others. He was immature and really tended to blow things out of proportion. The chemistry between him and Skye felt lacking also. I think there may just not have been enough build up from hook up to relationship for me to really see them as a couple with much in common.

I think there were a couple too many sub-plots as well and I believe one major one was never actually resolved.

Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
662 reviews9 followers
July 29, 2020
Omg this was sooooo good!
I'm not a sports book person but I am so happy I read this one!
Colt actually had me laughing to myself with his "; I'm Colt Anders " he was confused because Skye had no clue who he was! Colt is egotistical, hot and plays pro football! Skye is a school teacher and leads a pretty quiet life! When the come to gether there's definitely Sparks. This is such an excellent story ,the writing flows perfectly. The characters are awesome. I'm kinda liking Gray!!! I think the description of a pro baller is pretty close to the way it described here. Hard on relationships, but when you're crazy about someone you do whatever needs to be done! There is So much more I can say but I don't know how to put them into words, I just think this was an excellent story totally loved it and it's definitely definitely worth reading. Awesome I can't wait for what comes next
595 reviews3 followers
August 26, 2020
Wow, wow, wow - I loved this book so much I read it in one sitting! I love Colt and I loved Colt and Skyes relationship even more! I’m pretty excited to see there’s a second book and I have a feeling it will be just as good or even better! With Kathleens books they just seem to get better and better!
Profile Image for Shabria.
34 reviews5 followers
November 21, 2022
Sports Romances are my weakness

In my opinion, this book was so good and definitely enjoyed each page of it. And, I think I found my new favorite indie romance author. This book had three of my favorite tropes in a romance: steamy scenes, sweet moments & HEA.
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,234 reviews96 followers
August 25, 2020
"This was quite a quick read - or maybe it just felt that way because I ended up reading the book in one sitting.
Sports romance novels are my favorite genre so I always try to get my hands on as many as I can. This usually introduces me to new authors and I can only say that this has been a side bonus.
I really liked how Colt & Skye met, and really the story started off full tilt and just kept rolling on from there. Skye was refreshing in that she had no idea who Colt was, but being with him presents its own issues that could cost her dearly.
Great supporting characters as well, and the little snippet of what’s to come for Gray has me excited for his book next.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book." ~Sharon



I loved how Colton and Skye after everything they went through made it out stronger and more in love with one another. Plus Skye is a kickss heroine who knows when to give up and when to fight. Colton is a total hottie and I just loved how he loved on Skye. ~Jen
Profile Image for Terri.
284 reviews45 followers
August 22, 2020
Based off the synopsis, I thought I’d love this book but it didn’t exactly turn out that way once I started reading. The pacing, for me, was way off. Everything happened so fast. Because of this, I couldn’t connect with Skye or Colt. When something would go amiss with them or they’d come to to a realization about the other I just felt...meh. I couldn’t bring myself to get upset or be happy for them. I feel if things could’ve been expanded upon I would’ve cared more. Despite this issue I did enjoy the author’s writing. My favorite aspects of the story were Gray, Colt’s best friend and teammate,and Beau, Colt’s dog. Gray was always so supportive of Skye and Colt’s relationship and often steered them in the right direction. As for Beau, well, anytime there’s a cute pet in a book they’re automatically high on my favorites list.

Even though I had issues with the pacing, I’m definitely going to check out the authors next book because I want to see what happens with Gray!


*I received an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own*
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
4,587 reviews60 followers
August 20, 2020
This is a favorite author of mine and when she advertised that she was releasing a sports romance book I was slightly skeptical, but my skepticism was unfounded and I really enjoyed this book. At the beginning of the story I had a little difficulty connecting with Colt but towards the middle of the story he had warmed his way into my heart. Skye is funny, sassy and a natural balance to Colt’s intensity. When Colt rescues Skye from a first date gone awry she has no idea Colt is a famous NFL quarterback. She turned him down when Colt invites her back to his place and he is shocked to say the least. Fate has other ideas by bringing these two back together again. Will they get their HEA or will forces conspire against them to keep them apart?
Profile Image for Tania's Book Blog.
1,642 reviews20 followers
August 21, 2020
Colt had his work cut out for him with Skye. At first she didn’t know exactly who he was but then she found out that he was one of the best NFL quarterbacks and she wondered why her. Colt loved everything about her even signing up at the school she teaches to be a volunteer, lol. They were issues and misunderstandings of course rape on Colt’s behalf but his best friend and teammate, Gray, had a great relationship with Skye. He was their biggest cheerleader. The ending was fun but leaves you wondering hmmmm how will this turn out but not with Colt and Skye.
Profile Image for Andi Isack.
402 reviews16 followers
August 21, 2020
A sport and forbidden, ( but not so much) romance. Sometimes funny, others twisted, enjoyable yes, but some details not really authentic. Some characters atitude a little too obvious and superficial.
But a good plot. With decent sexy scenes, and an cinematographic ending.
Overall a nice read
* ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
12 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2020
Once again Kathleen Kelly has delivered. This book is a step away from her other books and it is well worth the read.

Skye is a teacher a private school and they have rules to follow, going out with Colt is breaking those rules.

Going out with one girl is different for love and leave em Colt Anders - a hot shot Quarterback for the New England Warrior.

Skye and Colton are trying to find their way in a complex relationship. And when he is standing at her door yelling "I'm Colt Anders" after she threw him out gave me a giggle. A turn of the tables for Mr Anders. To find out what happens and if she lets him back in you will have to read the book - you will not be disappointed.

Profile Image for Rebecca.
1,783 reviews31 followers
August 1, 2020
I received an ARC For a honest review and Oooh my I'm loving sports romance and Trackling Love is excellent sweet, beautiful and just....

Colt is the star Quarterback and supposedly a player with woman but then he meets gorgeous sweet Skye kindergarden teacher who plays by the rules till that one night she decides to have some fun.

Will it work out for them or colt's life cause problems for them both.

Come read I couldn't put it down seriously enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Bonnie Mancuso.
548 reviews37 followers
July 27, 2020
OUTSTANDING!!!
When you read one of Kathleen's books, you get sucked in from beginning to end. You're going to love this one. Kathleen creates such remarkable characters. Colt Anders is a hot-shot quarterback and a known playboy. Skye Hadley is a kindergarten teacher in a private school. When these two meet, sparks fly. I'm not going to spoil this story for you. You'll have to read it to find out what happens. I absolutely loved it and can't wait for more in this series.
Profile Image for Phyl.
1,441 reviews17 followers
August 26, 2020
I didn’t feel their connection right away, I think they were put together too soon to feel any heat or attraction. It’s a nice romantic story, he did need a huge kick up the ass though.
Profile Image for Chrissi.
1,401 reviews9 followers
August 20, 2020
I loved Colton and Skye's story. The sass Skye gave Colton at their first encounter was pure GOLD! I laughed so hard at poor Colton's expense. He certainly provided the entertainment.
While Skye and Colton each have their moments, their journey to each other is filled with fumbled passes and dropped balls- did you see what i did there? lol
This is a book that you won't want to miss. Cannot wait for the next in the series Tackling Life!
Profile Image for Kathleen Kelly.
Author 50 books1,185 followers
Read
November 4, 2021
This is book 1 in the Tackling Series. Book 2 Tackling Life is out now.
BUT this isn't the first book that Colton Anders has been in. :)
He was in Spark, mybook.to/SparkMacKennyBrosBook1 and was featured (very) briefly in Spark of Vengeance, mybook.to/SparkOfVengeance
So if you haven't read those two books, give them a go :)

Happy reading!

Tackling Love Book 1
Amazon Universal: https://readerlinks.com/l/1506600
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3aHLuXy
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3h8xQjO
Paperback
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3rvZZVR
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3jLdGiR
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,166 reviews6 followers
August 12, 2020
Skye Hadley likes her quiet life, teaching Kindergarten during the day, and spending her nights grading papers or curled up on the couch watching television. She doesn't date much as she really doesn't feel like she has the time for a relationship. But when she is asked out by one of her students parents she decides to take him up on an offer for dinner and a night on the town... but moments after he picks her up she realizes that there is no spark, that her date is a dud.

They hit up a local bar, and he immediately starts to knock back the drinks. He asks for a dance, and then starts to put his hands in places that they are not welcome. His forwardness makes her feel quite uncomfortable, and he starts to make a scene, so she decides to bail on him and go home. But before she can get her car door unlocked and flee the scene a handsome stranger comes to say hello. He is one gorgeous piece of man and he is making her an offer she can't really refuse, which she reluctantly says yes to... even though she knows she should say no!

Tackling Love is a steamy little page-turner that will grab your attention from the first page and hold it intently until the last! The moment Colton Anders wanders onto the page he will not only steal your heart, but your attention too... he is quite the smooth talking, good-hearted alpha. I loved watching these two fall for one another, their story was unique, heartfelt, and filled with all the good stuff to make you blush. It's fast paced story line made it easy to stay engaged, it characters were easy to love, and the words were so darn addictive, I enjoyed it so much I stayed up well past my bedtime just to finish it. Highly recommend!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Marnie.
1,157 reviews23 followers
August 22, 2020
A great fast sports rom-com from Kathleen Kelly

There was plenty to love and laugh about in this first Kathleen Kelly written sports romance. It’s a fast read that also falls into the insta-love trope, so if that’s also your jam, grab it up.

Colton Anders is the epitome of the term ‘man-wh0re’ and when the usually strait-laced private school teacher ends up taking him home for a night of hot sex, he thinks it’s business as usual. What he didn’t realise or expect was not to be recognised, and booted out, mostly naked at 3am in a hilarious scene where he says “But… I’m Colt Anders…”. This is the veneer that the press sees. I loved his generous heart, and that he was a also the owner of a Great Dane called Beau.

I loved Beau! As a Great Dane owner, I love to see these gentle giants feature in books especially when some of their most endearing personality traits are highlighted! I especially identified with Beau’s penchant for bad smells after eating pizza, and it reminded me of the time one of our Danes cleared a room while having a party!

On the whole I really liked Skye as a character. I loved her naivety regarding Colt’s identity, and her booting him out at 3am was hilarious. Her dedication to her kids at school was awesome, and she dealt with some crappy situations with class, but in some areas, as their relation grew, her attitude towards Colt came across as a little flakey and selfish.

I’ve loved the books that I’ve read from Ms Kelly, and I do recommend Tackling Love to readers who enjoy insta-love and sports rom-coms. And, I’m really looking forward to Tackling Life, Gray and Diandra’s book! 4 Stars.
Profile Image for Cathy P.
1,752 reviews8 followers
November 15, 2020
Couldn't finish all the way to end

This was not a good book, but better than anything I could do, so two stars instead of one. Its very juvenile. The plot, the dialogue, the characters actions , all juvenile. There is literally no chemistry between the two. No romance. No fun meet cute. The characters weren't really introduced and had no character development. I love romances of all kinds. I'm down for instalove, one night stands, fake relationship, friends to lovers, etc. But there needs to be some connection. Something. This book has nothing.
Skye is s kindergarten teacher. She meets Colt, a professional football player, while in a terrible date. He buys her a drink then blows him off. He breaks up her disagreement with her date and follows her to her car. She's flustered and he thinks now is the time to flirt. Which apparently it was, because she goes from go away to get in cowboy in literally a page. No cute back and forth. She showed no interest other than thinking he was cute. The book is just awkward. The sexy times ate awkward because she randomly yells stop. But not because anything was happening that needed to stop. Who half way through an O yells stop. Its not like it happened once either. She boots him at 3am and shows NO interest in talking to him. He shows up with a band in her front yard so she lets him in. He immediately throws Jer over his shoulder and heads to bedroom.
Its just not well done. I read further than I should have because the premise sounded like something I'd like and I thought it'd get better. It didn't. don't recommend.
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