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The End Zone
Part of Team Player: A Sports Romance Anthology.
Jolie Louis is a smart girl. She knows that her best friend, Sage Poirier, is a bad idea. He’s a walking, talking cliché. The Adonis quarterback with the bulging biceps and harem of fangirls trailing behind him on campus like a stench you can’t get rid of. Sadly, that’s also the reason she can’t stay away from him. Well, that and the fact that they’re roommates. Jolie is already straddling the line between friendship and more when Sage comes to her with an offer she cannot refuse: be his fake girlfriend and live for free for the rest of the semester. She tells herself that she can handle it. He’s just the boy she saved ten years ago, right? Wrong. So very wrong. He is a man now, and she is his captive Heart, body, and soul…
Jolie Louis is a smart girl. She knows that her best friend, Sage Poirier, is a bad idea. He’s a walking, talking cliché. The Adonis quarterback with the bulging biceps and harem of fangirls trailing behind him on campus like a stench you can’t get rid of. Sadly, that’s also the reason she can’t stay away from him. Well, that and the fact that they’re roommates. Jolie is already straddling the line between friendship and more when Sage comes to her with an offer she cannot refuse: be his fake girlfriend and live for free for the rest of the semester. She tells herself that she can handle it. He’s just the boy she saved ten years ago, right? Wrong. So very wrong. He is a man now, and she is his captive Heart, body, and soul…
153 pages, ebook
First published December 14, 2017
About the author
L.J. Shen
64 books51.9k followersL.J. Shen is a New Yor Times, USA Today, WSJ, Washington Post and #1 Amazon Kindle Store bestselling author of contemporary romance books.
She writes angsty books, unredeemable anti-heroes who are in Bill Gates's tax bracket, and sassy heroines who bring them to their knees (for more reasons than one).
Keep up with L.J. on all platforms:
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Instagram➜ shorturl.at/cDJRZ
TikTok ➜ shorturl.at/frw59
Facebook➜ https://goo.gl/fKCSo4
Website ➜ www.authorljshen.com
She writes angsty books, unredeemable anti-heroes who are in Bill Gates's tax bracket, and sassy heroines who bring them to their knees (for more reasons than one).
Keep up with L.J. on all platforms:
Newsletter Sign up ➜ https://bit.ly/3LhsIrb
Instagram➜ shorturl.at/cDJRZ
TikTok ➜ shorturl.at/frw59
Facebook➜ https://goo.gl/fKCSo4
Website ➜ www.authorljshen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,596 reviews
March 30, 2018
"All the girls he brings home (roughly twenty percent of the US female population) do moan and scream for an average of forty minutes."
DNF at 25%
I am so fresh out of fucks at this point.
This book annoyed me faster than Speedy Gonzales can do his thing.
This book, (if I had the power and the effort) would have a running mp3 track of Amy Winehouse singing "no, no, n.o" in the background.
This book, to me was all the yikes in the world coming together for a hot cocoa.
______________
*lawyer voice* alex, please stfu and sit down
I couldn't... I'm really sorry but I couldn't get past the quarter mark. Sage (one of our mc's) made me want a medical coma. I don't think I have ever tried harder to like a book than I did with this one. He had the manwhore factor going and maybe it's me, but that play very rarely works in my liking the character.
Because (and let me explain myself), I find it really hard to follow and root for dialogue and monologue like this:
Maybe that didn't justify my explanation enough. Here, have another little bite.
Those were just the starters, and you bet your sweet ass I left before the main course arrived because I did NOT want to be there for that. This review isn't going to be a long ass review of what I think went wrong because there were a lot of people that loved this. I read Midnight Blue by this author earlier this year and I enjoyed that so much more - I seem to find a pattern with Shen and the manwhore + s/o trope.
That's perfectly fine, just it reeallyy wasn't for me. I usually try my best not to DNF a book, because everything and everyone deserves to be complete. I just couldn't.
*alex voice* thank you, i needed that
DNF at 25%
I am so fresh out of fucks at this point.
This book annoyed me faster than Speedy Gonzales can do his thing.
This book, (if I had the power and the effort) would have a running mp3 track of Amy Winehouse singing "no, no, n.o" in the background.
This book, to me was all the yikes in the world coming together for a hot cocoa.
______________
*lawyer voice* alex, please stfu and sit down
I couldn't... I'm really sorry but I couldn't get past the quarter mark. Sage (one of our mc's) made me want a medical coma. I don't think I have ever tried harder to like a book than I did with this one. He had the manwhore factor going and maybe it's me, but that play very rarely works in my liking the character.
Because (and let me explain myself), I find it really hard to follow and root for dialogue and monologue like this:
“Do you really want to throw away ten years of friendship for a quick lay?”
He smirks. “First of all, it’s not going to be quick. I know what I’m doing in the sack. We’re talking a minimum of twenty-five minutes, lady, and I’m being humble here, because I might be a little on the excited side when I finally get you in my bed.” He cups his groin and winks, and I would roll my eyes if it weren’t for the fact that his room is down the hall, and the thin walls confirm his statement."
Maybe that didn't justify my explanation enough. Here, have another little bite.
“Your hot roommate. Did you ask her if she’s into me?” Again, I find myself wanting to punch my own balls for downplaying my relationship with Jolie. This is all my doing, and the reason I don’t tell people how close we are is because I don’t want any cock-blocking scenarios to get in my way of a good pussy."
Those were just the starters, and you bet your sweet ass I left before the main course arrived because I did NOT want to be there for that. This review isn't going to be a long ass review of what I think went wrong because there were a lot of people that loved this. I read Midnight Blue by this author earlier this year and I enjoyed that so much more - I seem to find a pattern with Shen and the manwhore + s/o trope.
That's perfectly fine, just it reeallyy wasn't for me. I usually try my best not to DNF a book, because everything and everyone deserves to be complete. I just couldn't.
*alex voice* thank you, i needed that
April 11, 2018
4.5
I first read The End Zone by L.J. Shen when it was previously released in the sports romance anthology, Team Player. I wrote a review for it at that time. Before I say anything else, I'm going to include it here. It was my first impression after all.
Full disclosure, L. J. Shen is like a unicorn to me. I love her work, and I'm convinced she has magical powers that allow her to write the most perfect asshole heroes in romance. Therefore, I began reading this novella thinking I was going to find a grade A asshole inside, but that's not what I got at all. I was rather suprised to find out that Sage may be somewhat of an douche to other people sometimes, but he is nothing but sweet to Jolie.
Did I love her sweet hero as much I've loved her heroes from other books? Yes! Yes, I did! Sage is swoonworthy! Definite book boyfriend material! I adored the way he was with Jolie, and I believed in their love 100 percent. With this being a novella, that gets bonus points from me! It can be hard for me to become invested in a couple over so few pages, but that wasn't a problem here at all. I do wish I had more time with these characters, but that's just because I enjoyed them so much! The End Zone is beautifully written and captivating! In my opinion, it's worth the price of the whole anthology!
Okay, now you know what I thought of it initially, but what do I think about this new version? More importantly, why should you buy it if you've already read it before?
One, it has a brand new extended epilogue that gives us a glimpse into Jolie and Sage's future. The one thing past me wanted was more of these characters. This newly released version gave me that. It was absolutely adorable and on top of that, pretty damn hot, too.
Two, the cover is gorgeous! I mean look at those eyes! Those abs! If you're a cover whore like myself, that by itself is reason enough. Lol
Three, L. J. is the most incredible woman in the entire world, and she has given us an extended epilogue to Vicious. If you know me at all, you know that Vicious is one of my favorite books of all time. Baron Spencer is my favorite asshole hero of all time, too. No one compares to him. No. One.
When I found out I was getting more Vicious, I started breathing erratically. I had heart palpitations, people! I haven't been that excited about reading anything in a very long time.
I don't really know what my expectations were when it came to this new little addition to one of the best romance novels ever written, but they were exceeded! The epilogue is everything I wanted and more. I think I smiled like a lunatic the whole time I read. When I reached the final words, I almost had a heart attack! I mean, I straight up freaked the fuck out, y'all. Happy does not begin to describe the feelings I had when I closed this book!
Do I recommend The End Zone? Hell yes! Fans of the author shouldn't hesitate for a second, and Vicious lovers like myself should buy it for the epilogue alone. Even if you've never read this author before, if you love short, sweet, sexy romances with the friends to lovers trope, this one's for you!
ARC generously provided by the author for an honest review.
I first read The End Zone by L.J. Shen when it was previously released in the sports romance anthology, Team Player. I wrote a review for it at that time. Before I say anything else, I'm going to include it here. It was my first impression after all.
Full disclosure, L. J. Shen is like a unicorn to me. I love her work, and I'm convinced she has magical powers that allow her to write the most perfect asshole heroes in romance. Therefore, I began reading this novella thinking I was going to find a grade A asshole inside, but that's not what I got at all. I was rather suprised to find out that Sage may be somewhat of an douche to other people sometimes, but he is nothing but sweet to Jolie.
Did I love her sweet hero as much I've loved her heroes from other books? Yes! Yes, I did! Sage is swoonworthy! Definite book boyfriend material! I adored the way he was with Jolie, and I believed in their love 100 percent. With this being a novella, that gets bonus points from me! It can be hard for me to become invested in a couple over so few pages, but that wasn't a problem here at all. I do wish I had more time with these characters, but that's just because I enjoyed them so much! The End Zone is beautifully written and captivating! In my opinion, it's worth the price of the whole anthology!
Okay, now you know what I thought of it initially, but what do I think about this new version? More importantly, why should you buy it if you've already read it before?
One, it has a brand new extended epilogue that gives us a glimpse into Jolie and Sage's future. The one thing past me wanted was more of these characters. This newly released version gave me that. It was absolutely adorable and on top of that, pretty damn hot, too.
Two, the cover is gorgeous! I mean look at those eyes! Those abs! If you're a cover whore like myself, that by itself is reason enough. Lol
Three, L. J. is the most incredible woman in the entire world, and she has given us an extended epilogue to Vicious. If you know me at all, you know that Vicious is one of my favorite books of all time. Baron Spencer is my favorite asshole hero of all time, too. No one compares to him. No. One.
When I found out I was getting more Vicious, I started breathing erratically. I had heart palpitations, people! I haven't been that excited about reading anything in a very long time.
I don't really know what my expectations were when it came to this new little addition to one of the best romance novels ever written, but they were exceeded! The epilogue is everything I wanted and more. I think I smiled like a lunatic the whole time I read. When I reached the final words, I almost had a heart attack! I mean, I straight up freaked the fuck out, y'all. Happy does not begin to describe the feelings I had when I closed this book!
Do I recommend The End Zone? Hell yes! Fans of the author shouldn't hesitate for a second, and Vicious lovers like myself should buy it for the epilogue alone. Even if you've never read this author before, if you love short, sweet, sexy romances with the friends to lovers trope, this one's for you!
ARC generously provided by the author for an honest review.
June 2, 2018
3 stars!
This was a short and sexy friends to lovers story that I enjoyed, but was just missing a little something for me. I'm not sure if it was because it was so short I felt like I didn't get enough back story (or story in general with the characters) or what. Either way, I liked it- it just wasn't love for me x
This was a short and sexy friends to lovers story that I enjoyed, but was just missing a little something for me. I'm not sure if it was because it was so short I felt like I didn't get enough back story (or story in general with the characters) or what. Either way, I liked it- it just wasn't love for me x
April 4, 2018
Best friends from the age of 10. Now seniors in college, Sage needs to prove to his best friend Jolie that they can be more than just each other’s best friend. So how?? be his fake girlfriend for their last semester of college before he gets drafted to the NFL. He wants to experience relationships at their finest with no one else besides the closest girl he’s ever had to him, the only girl he’s ever loved. So it’s best friends to fake lovers.....
Both Sage and Jolie are secretly fighting stronger feelings for each other, so what could possibly go wrong if they both ultimately want the same thing, they both want each other. Well for one, their hearts. When one of them is already completely 100% in love with the other but of course, hasn’t expressed those feelings to the other. They're slowly treading on a tight rope between their familiarity and grown up games that is bound to crush one, if not, both of them. What if one can't live without the other?
Sage has been friends with Jolie for 10 years so he clearly knows what to say to please her and he definitely knows how to say it. So will he use this to get to her or will he use it to play her and get what he wants, the ultimate lay. The one he's always dreamed of...
Jolie knows this is temporary so she’s trying with everything in her to not fall head over hills more in love with her best friend. Her heart just can’t take it so she safe words after the second day. She knows Sage could never love her more than she wants, so why put her heart through all this. How can this ever work???? Have some faith, believe in love, know that your past may just be your future... Its easy to think, but to know is just to hard without hearing the words.
If you love a fast pace, a sweet easy to fall in love story, you have to read The End Zone. I definitely fell in love ❤️
Both Sage and Jolie are secretly fighting stronger feelings for each other, so what could possibly go wrong if they both ultimately want the same thing, they both want each other. Well for one, their hearts. When one of them is already completely 100% in love with the other but of course, hasn’t expressed those feelings to the other. They're slowly treading on a tight rope between their familiarity and grown up games that is bound to crush one, if not, both of them. What if one can't live without the other?
Sage has been friends with Jolie for 10 years so he clearly knows what to say to please her and he definitely knows how to say it. So will he use this to get to her or will he use it to play her and get what he wants, the ultimate lay. The one he's always dreamed of...
Jolie knows this is temporary so she’s trying with everything in her to not fall head over hills more in love with her best friend. Her heart just can’t take it so she safe words after the second day. She knows Sage could never love her more than she wants, so why put her heart through all this. How can this ever work???? Have some faith, believe in love, know that your past may just be your future... Its easy to think, but to know is just to hard without hearing the words.
If you love a fast pace, a sweet easy to fall in love story, you have to read The End Zone. I definitely fell in love ❤️
Read
March 30, 2018My best friend is a manwh*re.
But he is also the boy I gave my heart to.
Previously published as part of Team Player: an Anthology. Includes an extended epilogue, and a SPECIAL chapter from Vicious, kickstarting a brand new series.
Audiobook > https://goo.gl/Le1Hw1
But he is also the boy I gave my heart to.
Previously published as part of Team Player: an Anthology. Includes an extended epilogue, and a SPECIAL chapter from Vicious, kickstarting a brand new series.
Audiobook > https://goo.gl/Le1Hw1
Want to read
March 31, 2018
[licks screen!] LOVE BALLS!
Stand-alone novella.
Release: April 3, 2018
Pre-order: Coming soon!
Blurb:
Jolie Louis is a smart girl. She knows that her best friend, Sage Poirier, is a bad idea. He’s a walking, talking cliché. The Adonis quarterback with the bulging biceps and harem of fangirls trailing behind him on campus like a stench you can’t get rid of. Sadly, that’s also the reason she can’t stay away from him. Well, that and the fact that they’re roommates. Jolie is already straddling the line between friendship and more when Sage comes to her with an offer she cannot refuse: be his fake girlfriend and live for free for the rest of the semester. She tells herself that she can handle it. He’s just the boy she saved ten years ago, right? Wrong. So very wrong. He is a man now, and she is his captive Heart, body, and soul…
April 1, 2018
MY REVIEW can also be found on my blog:
KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
THE END ZONE: This was previously released last year as part of the Team Player Anthology but has recently been re-edited and has a spanking new epilogue added. In this we meet Jolie Louis and her best friend Sage Poirier
PAST: It only took eight nights for her to summon up the courage to talk to him, to save him, and in that time it only took eight nights for her to give her heart to the broken boy next door.
NOW: Jolie and Sage have a special tango that they have perfected over the years they have known each other, one pulls, the other pushes. One wants, the other gives, one loves the other hurts. But when they both catch up an undeniable love blossoms between them catapulting them out of the friend zone into the more zone.
Roommates with an attraction towards each other that has been ignored but has been simmering in the background waiting to be ignited, it takes only a suggestion for Jolie to become his fake girlfriend where things start heating up, where things start to change between them.
The End Zone is a super sexy friends to lovers romance full of sexy moments, angst moments, swoon moments all wrapped up in a short novella that will leave you gasping for more especially when you read the extended epilogue...
April 6, 2018
★4.5★
The End Zone is a Sports Romance with sizzling passion and endearing characters. Previously released in the sports romance anthology The Team Player, Ms. Shen offers a fantastic contemporary romance with the addition of a surprise extended epilogue.
Overall, I highly recommend The End Zone to anyone who enjoys a smoking hot sports romance that will leave you breathless and aching for more.
*ARC graciously provided in exchange for an honest review!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"You're fucking everywhere."
The End Zone is a Sports Romance with sizzling passion and endearing characters. Previously released in the sports romance anthology The Team Player, Ms. Shen offers a fantastic contemporary romance with the addition of a surprise extended epilogue.
"You're in my heart and in my fingertips and on my fucking lips like a prayer."The End Zone by L.J. Shen features a smoking hot football player who is secretly in love with his best friend. Gabe Poirier is the quarterback of his college team and a playboy with the ladies. And yet, he has always wanted his best friend Jolie Louise. They have been friends from childhood and been through so much together. Jolie is secretly in love with Gabe but knows he will only break her heart. When Jolie gets some attention from some male admirers, Gabe decides to take matters into his own hands. Declaring that Jolie is his "fake" girlfriend, he decides to use that time to convince Jolie that their relationship is nothing but the real deal! With some good old-fashioned college drama and authentic friends to lovers romance, L.J. Shen offers a perfect blend of passion, friendship, and tender love. I have long been a fan of Ms. Shen's writing. Her characters are complex and the connections they create are explosive and truly unforgettable.
Overall, I highly recommend The End Zone to anyone who enjoys a smoking hot sports romance that will leave you breathless and aching for more.
*ARC graciously provided in exchange for an honest review!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
May 1, 2018
2 stars
I did not enjoy this one. Not at all. I love LJ Shen, but this is a story that I think would have been a million times better as a full length novel and not a novella. The plot was choppy with unresolved issues and no character development. I was actually going to give this 3 stars but then read the bonus epilogue and it got worse from there.
If you are looking for something hot with minimal to zero plot, this is the book for you.
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I did not enjoy this one. Not at all. I love LJ Shen, but this is a story that I think would have been a million times better as a full length novel and not a novella. The plot was choppy with unresolved issues and no character development. I was actually going to give this 3 stars but then read the bonus epilogue and it got worse from there.
If you are looking for something hot with minimal to zero plot, this is the book for you.
Follow me on ♥ Facebook ♥ Blog ♥ Instagram ♥ Twitter ♥
April 5, 2018
Favorite Author + Favorite Trope multiplied by novella sized sexiness = WIN WIN WIN!!!
The End Zone is a sexy friends to lovers romance (with a dash of fake relationship yumminess) that’s sure to score with fans of Sports Romance and quick steamy reads. L.J. Shen brings her signature broody asshole hero game in this one. Add to that that Sage is sort of a douchebag and I never stood a chance! What the hell is wrong with me, right? Hi my name is Tijuana and I love alpha-hole douchebags! Admitting the problem is Step 1, right?
Anywhoo. Sage and Jolie are super cute. I love that their story spans years and runs the gamut of milestones and emotions. It’s a real feat to pack so much history in so few pages, but L.J. Shen has done just that.
Here’s what I absolutely loved: The history between these two. But even more than that, the sexual tension. Off the Charts cut it with a spoon sort of tension.
The secondary characters were a hoot! I loved Jolie’s besties and coworker. Boy that chase scene almost made me pee my pants. You need to read the book just for that alone. It was hilarious!
But here’s the main clincher. The beginning and end. You guys, I adored the prologue and epilogue SO MUCH. The structure is different and elicits so many emotions. The reader immediately feels drawn into the situation during the prologue and by the end of the epilogue you’re completely invested. I’m a bit of an epilogue whore anyway and this one was sooooooo cute. Gah! The symmetry and poignancy were brilliant. Well done, LJ. Well done indeed.
Recommended for lovers of Sports Romance, Novellas, Douchebag Alpha-holes, and sweet hardworking heroines.
April 3, 2018
This is a wonderful 'friends to lovers story'. Very entertaining and without really much angst.
The main characters are very young, in their early twenties.
They will feel insecurities, they will make mistakes, they will be easy to be manipulated and this will result to misunderstandings. But true love always wins in the end.
The book has two points of view by the two main characters: Sage Poirier i.e. Louisiana’s finest college quarterback and a manwhore and Jolie Louis i.e. his Jo Jo and his best childhood friend.
Favourite quotes:
It’s not a phase.
It’s here to stay.
I’m in love with my best friend.
With the girl who ran in the rain for me.
With the girl who did my homework all the way through elementary and high school so I could concentrate on my football, and gave me pointers and summaries when we walked to school together every day.
With the girl who believed in me before even I believed in myself.
and
"I’d rather die than see you with someone else who holds the potential to give you the things that you need. It occurred to me that I would never be able to be happy for you if you married someone else. It occurred to me that I can’t even think of being with anyone but you, and when I do have a child, I want it to be with you. I love you, JoJo. But you already know that. I’m also in love with you. Crazy about you. Can’t live without you."
The main characters are very young, in their early twenties.
They will feel insecurities, they will make mistakes, they will be easy to be manipulated and this will result to misunderstandings. But true love always wins in the end.
The book has two points of view by the two main characters: Sage Poirier i.e. Louisiana’s finest college quarterback and a manwhore and Jolie Louis i.e. his Jo Jo and his best childhood friend.
Favourite quotes:
It’s not a phase.
It’s here to stay.
I’m in love with my best friend.
With the girl who ran in the rain for me.
With the girl who did my homework all the way through elementary and high school so I could concentrate on my football, and gave me pointers and summaries when we walked to school together every day.
With the girl who believed in me before even I believed in myself.
and
"I’d rather die than see you with someone else who holds the potential to give you the things that you need. It occurred to me that I would never be able to be happy for you if you married someone else. It occurred to me that I can’t even think of being with anyone but you, and when I do have a child, I want it to be with you. I love you, JoJo. But you already know that. I’m also in love with you. Crazy about you. Can’t live without you."
April 8, 2018
An electric toothbrush?? Really, wtf? That bit spoilt the book for me, I'm sorry!
In all honesty, I prefered this story when it was part of the Team Player Anthology - but if you are looking for a short and sexy sports romance in the addictive style that we have all come to expect from LJ Shen, then you definitely need to pick this up. It was a lot of fun, but don't expect anything deep.
3.5 Stars
In all honesty, I prefered this story when it was part of the Team Player Anthology - but if you are looking for a short and sexy sports romance in the addictive style that we have all come to expect from LJ Shen, then you definitely need to pick this up. It was a lot of fun, but don't expect anything deep.
3.5 Stars
April 6, 2018
We’re one entity. Whole and broken. Happy and sad. Lost and so unbelievably found.
Jolie and Sage are best friends to lovers goals. Yes, Sage is a manwhore, but Jolie knows the good man under all the jerk. Their novella is quick and hot, with just enough angst to keep it interesting.
The Vicious bonus content and the sneak peek at what’s to come from Shen was so so so good. I didn’t think I’d ever be this excited to go back to high school.
Jolie and Sage are best friends to lovers goals. Yes, Sage is a manwhore, but Jolie knows the good man under all the jerk. Their novella is quick and hot, with just enough angst to keep it interesting.
The Vicious bonus content and the sneak peek at what’s to come from Shen was so so so good. I didn’t think I’d ever be this excited to go back to high school.
November 28, 2020
Jo Jo and Sage.
When I started out with this book I thought ok another boy and girl meet as kids ..on and on. I was wrong. Oh they did meet as kids. They did become good friends.But what happened is they woke up one day and the realization hit them.
When I started out with this book I thought ok another boy and girl meet as kids ..on and on. I was wrong. Oh they did meet as kids. They did become good friends.But what happened is they woke up one day and the realization hit them.
May 23, 2018
***2 Stars***
Hooooo boy this book DID NOT work for me.
The emotional prologue hooked me, and then the rest of the novella fell off a cliff.
The writing is stiff and robotic.
There's zero character development.
The plot is weak and a ridiculous drama was thrown in at the end that made my eyes roll right out of my head.
The MC's have ABSOLUTELY NO CHEMISTRY.
However, my biggest issue is that this reads like how someone THINKS those in their early twenties talk and think. I mean, has the author been around 20 year olds?
And all the "yeah?" to finish a sentence....over it. Talking to pussies and dicks like they're separate beings...for real?
But I knew I was officially done with this book when the hero used the term "porking" to talk about the sex he's had with other women.
I've heard so many amazing things about this author and her books, but DAMN did this book give a bad first impression.
Who wrote that prologue? I wanna read their books.
March 26, 2018
❤️4 stars ❤️
I really enjoyed The End Zone, it was a lighthearted,sweet,steamy and quick read!Both characters were lovable and I liked the story a lot!This story was the perfect best friends to lovers! I loved the push and pull between Sage and Jolie, their connection was something else and you could feel the intensity between them!The prologue was one of my favorite parts in this story!I wish we could have more!
Overall, it was a great read, you can't go wrong with L.J. Shen, I love her writing and her stories are unique!
I really enjoyed The End Zone, it was a lighthearted,sweet,steamy and quick read!Both characters were lovable and I liked the story a lot!This story was the perfect best friends to lovers! I loved the push and pull between Sage and Jolie, their connection was something else and you could feel the intensity between them!The prologue was one of my favorite parts in this story!I wish we could have more!
Overall, it was a great read, you can't go wrong with L.J. Shen, I love her writing and her stories are unique!
April 9, 2018
The End Zone is a short story about Jolie Louis and Sage Poirer. They are best friends since Jolie found Sage crying one rainy night and comforted him when they were kids. Now, both are senior college students and roommates. Jolie is in love with him for the longest time but his quarterback best friend is a manwhore. Then he asked her to be his fake girlfriend for the remaining semester. She's afraid this arrangement will ruin their friendship and him breaking her heart but she'll take the risk.
The novella was okay and I think it's better if it will be a full length novel. Sad to say the characters fell flat to me and both of them lacked character developments. The extended epilogue saved it because it's hilarious.By the way, the Vicious extended epilogue is good and it's a sneak peek for the spin-off series. I'm looking forward to that.
The novella was okay and I think it's better if it will be a full length novel. Sad to say the characters fell flat to me and both of them lacked character developments. The extended epilogue saved it because it's hilarious.By the way, the Vicious extended epilogue is good and it's a sneak peek for the spin-off series. I'm looking forward to that.
February 20, 2020
"You're in my heart and in my fingertips and on my fucking lips like a prayer."
Well well well... this was SUPER HOT!!!! (and super sweet)
Non sono mai stata una fan delle novelle, anzi, di solito le odio proprio. Le trovo inutili. Un centinaio di pagine buttate a caso su una storia dove succede tutto e subito. E non dico che qui non sia stato così, perchè è stato così anche qui, però la Shen ti regala certe scene che... dopo sei morta.
Jolie e Sage sono amici sin da bambini, e quando vanno al college insieme, si rendono conto che l'attrazione che provano l'uno per l'altra è troppo forte. Sage propone a Jolie di essere la sua finta fidanzata e lei accetta, anche se pensa di finire con il cuore spezzato, perchè a breve il college finirà e ognuno andrà per la sua strada. Ma quello che ha in mente Sage è tutta un altra storia. Jolie non andrà proprio da nessuna parte.
E' stata una lettura veloce ma molto sensuale e verso la fine, molto dolce. I personaggi della Shen sono sempre i soliti stronzi manwhore che poi però si innamorano e finiscono in ginocchio davanti alle loro donne.
Per chi non avesse ancora dato una chance a questa autrice fatelo al più presto, non ve ne pentirete!
Real rating: 3½
April 4, 2018
First, let me just put it out there. I'd worship L.J. Shen if I could...I love love her books.
I can't believe I'm saying this but I didn't really enjoy The End Zone as much I thought I would. It's not even the fact that this was a novella, I actually enjoyed the fast paced, almost an instant gratification of the book...it's the characters that left me disappointed. Sage and Jolie, together? Fireworks... Sage and Jolie separately? A royal dud.
It actually pains me to write this review because it's L.J. Shen! Some would really love this while others like myself, found it 50/50.
January 3, 2018
Luv Sage!!!
This book is so good which I knew it would be. Come on its LJ Shen everyone of her books are amazing. I was looking forward to this book so much. Sage is just so amazing. Ye he's the cocky Manwhore football player. But where Jolie is concerned she is his everything. It just took him a lil time to realize that. But I have to say he is a very sexy strong alpha character and I luv him. I would luv a lil more of these two.
Jolie is great also she is very protective of him to in someway. The way they meet is so sweet. Having that strong friendship turn into a relationship is so cute i luv them together. They bother have y different lives but they fit so perfect.
This is a great short story. I would luv more but when it comes to this author I always want more. She creates the best stories that suck in from page one and the characters male and female are all great. I would highly recommend this novella it's part of Team Player an analogy it's definitely worth a read.
This book is so good which I knew it would be. Come on its LJ Shen everyone of her books are amazing. I was looking forward to this book so much. Sage is just so amazing. Ye he's the cocky Manwhore football player. But where Jolie is concerned she is his everything. It just took him a lil time to realize that. But I have to say he is a very sexy strong alpha character and I luv him. I would luv a lil more of these two.
Jolie is great also she is very protective of him to in someway. The way they meet is so sweet. Having that strong friendship turn into a relationship is so cute i luv them together. They bother have y different lives but they fit so perfect.
This is a great short story. I would luv more but when it comes to this author I always want more. She creates the best stories that suck in from page one and the characters male and female are all great. I would highly recommend this novella it's part of Team Player an analogy it's definitely worth a read.
September 2, 2019
Cute friends to lovers
This was a fast and overall entertaining read. Pretty decent audiobook as well. This is a friends to lovers novella set in college. There isn’t much drama or angst, which are typical LJ Shen staples, but it was still sweet and enjoyable. Some parts were definitely funny and made me chuckle. However, since it was such a short story the characters were not that well developed and it would’ve also benefited more from some flashbacks. Still pretty good though.
This was a fast and overall entertaining read. Pretty decent audiobook as well. This is a friends to lovers novella set in college. There isn’t much drama or angst, which are typical LJ Shen staples, but it was still sweet and enjoyable. Some parts were definitely funny and made me chuckle. However, since it was such a short story the characters were not that well developed and it would’ve also benefited more from some flashbacks. Still pretty good though.
November 30, 2018
Review Update:
"One pulls, the other pushes. One wants, the other gives. One loves, the other hurts."
I've read this novella the first time in December when the Team Player anthology was published. I fell in love with it right after the first few pages. And I've re-read The End Zone now, because it will soon be published on its own. Again I fell in love with it. I felt everything all over again I felt the first time I read Jolie's and Sage's story.
"He's the kid I fell in love with at the age of ten, and the man I would give the world to at the age of twenty."
First thing you should now, I don't like novellas. Usually for me they are always too short, and I wish I could explore things deeper, getting a better glimpse of the characters. So I'm not easy to impress with novellas. So I'm happy I can state, that my review from December 2017 is still valid: The End Zone is the most perfect novella I've read so far!
"The words barely leave my moth before his moth crashes down on mine, devouring me like a starved wolf. Like that boy who cried to the moon, and the moon finally answered."
Actually I shouldn't really be surprised, because Leigh has such a great way with words, she pulled of this novella like no other.
"You're in my blood, in my veins, in my fucking soul. You're in my heart and in my fingertips and on my fucking lips like a prayer. You'r fucking everywhere, Jolie Louis. Always will be."
The chemistry between Jolie and Sage is off the charts and sparks from every line between the words. You can't deny feeling the attraction between those two and you live right within.
"I love you, I love you, I fucking love you. No matter what happens in my life, you're the constant thing I can count on. The shelter in the storm, the calm in my chaos."
In addition to this perfectly touching novella, we get an extended Vicious Epilogue. We get a glimpse of Emilia and Vicious 18 years after. It teases us for the next generation books of the HotHoles. And what can I say? I can't fucking wait!!! All I can say is "... call us All Saints' Sinners" <3
P.s. And I'm totally in LOVE with this cover!!!! <3
Review from 13th December 2017:
The most perfect and touching novella I've read so far! ❤️
"One pulls, the other pushes. One wants, the other gives. One loves, the other hurts."
I've read this novella the first time in December when the Team Player anthology was published. I fell in love with it right after the first few pages. And I've re-read The End Zone now, because it will soon be published on its own. Again I fell in love with it. I felt everything all over again I felt the first time I read Jolie's and Sage's story.
"He's the kid I fell in love with at the age of ten, and the man I would give the world to at the age of twenty."
First thing you should now, I don't like novellas. Usually for me they are always too short, and I wish I could explore things deeper, getting a better glimpse of the characters. So I'm not easy to impress with novellas. So I'm happy I can state, that my review from December 2017 is still valid: The End Zone is the most perfect novella I've read so far!
"The words barely leave my moth before his moth crashes down on mine, devouring me like a starved wolf. Like that boy who cried to the moon, and the moon finally answered."
Actually I shouldn't really be surprised, because Leigh has such a great way with words, she pulled of this novella like no other.
"You're in my blood, in my veins, in my fucking soul. You're in my heart and in my fingertips and on my fucking lips like a prayer. You'r fucking everywhere, Jolie Louis. Always will be."
The chemistry between Jolie and Sage is off the charts and sparks from every line between the words. You can't deny feeling the attraction between those two and you live right within.
"I love you, I love you, I fucking love you. No matter what happens in my life, you're the constant thing I can count on. The shelter in the storm, the calm in my chaos."
In addition to this perfectly touching novella, we get an extended Vicious Epilogue. We get a glimpse of Emilia and Vicious 18 years after. It teases us for the next generation books of the HotHoles. And what can I say? I can't fucking wait!!! All I can say is "... call us All Saints' Sinners" <3
P.s. And I'm totally in LOVE with this cover!!!! <3
Review from 13th December 2017:
The most perfect and touching novella I've read so far! ❤️
April 4, 2018
You wanna know what this book is about?
This book is about L.J. Shen making the Douchebag-Man-Whore her bitch.
This book is exactly why I love L.J. Shen. Like Sara Ney, L.J.Shen can make me hate/love the douchebag.
Sage is a Grade-A Douchebag-Man-Whore. He is the college quarterback, soon to be drafted, and can get anything he wants, including women. After a recent incident, he is lusting after his roommate, Jolie. He has never felt anything for her before now. Sage and Jolie have been best friends since they were kids. Jolie has been in lurrrrve with Sage since then as well, but OF COURSE he doesn’t know it, and OF COURSE he is a Douchebag-Man-Whore. There is no way she is going to put herself out there only to get hurt and lose her best friend in the process.
I love love love the fake relationship stories, and that is exactly what happens. Sage convinces Jo Jo to be his fake girlfriend, and it quickly escalates into something more. Were there a couple of predictable cliché moments? You betcha. Did I care? Not one bit. I read this book in one sitting and enjoyed every second.
I loved this short by L.J. Shen. I wish it was a full book, and those are the best kind of novellas.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on
This book is about L.J. Shen making the Douchebag-Man-Whore her bitch.
This book is exactly why I love L.J. Shen. Like Sara Ney, L.J.Shen can make me hate/love the douchebag.
Sage is a Grade-A Douchebag-Man-Whore. He is the college quarterback, soon to be drafted, and can get anything he wants, including women. After a recent incident, he is lusting after his roommate, Jolie. He has never felt anything for her before now. Sage and Jolie have been best friends since they were kids. Jolie has been in lurrrrve with Sage since then as well, but OF COURSE he doesn’t know it, and OF COURSE he is a Douchebag-Man-Whore. There is no way she is going to put herself out there only to get hurt and lose her best friend in the process.
I love love love the fake relationship stories, and that is exactly what happens. Sage convinces Jo Jo to be his fake girlfriend, and it quickly escalates into something more. Were there a couple of predictable cliché moments? You betcha. Did I care? Not one bit. I read this book in one sitting and enjoyed every second.
I loved this short by L.J. Shen. I wish it was a full book, and those are the best kind of novellas.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on
April 3, 2018
Edited for the newly independent released version with extended epilogue.
The extra epilogue that hints at her future project is HOT. AMAZING. A GIFT FROM THE GODS. Too much? It isn’t. Once you read it, you will understand. I CANNOT WAIT! Thank God she has more for us in 2018 or I’d be crying in the corner due to the waiting period. All I can say is get ready, because you don’t even know! This scene is about cause her fandom to combust! I swear.
4 Like Lovers Do CROWNS
The End Zone by LJ Shen gives readers a super angsty, high chemistry novella that is fast paced and entertaining with its dramatic and blush-worthy moments.
Sage and Jolie are best friends from childhood, and while we get minimal information about their friendship over the years, Shen establishes a believable relationship with the prologue. The foundation she creates between them in a single moment is one that makes their loyalty and love for each other believable. Once the story begins, though, the focus is on their sexual chemistry as well as the potential for it to be more.
Sage is the typical LJ Shen hero: abrasive, sexy, and, to be honest, a jerk, which is probably why I enjoy his character. I shouldn’t . I know this, but I just can’t help myself. There are moments when I wanted to punch him or roll my eyes over his antics, but I was also drawn to him with his cocky arrogance and vulnerability with Jolie. Plus, he knows that he can be an arrogant jerk, and he acknowledges it, which in part makes me okay with those parts, too.
Jolie, for me, is very reminiscent of Mel from Defy. She is smart and loyal to Sage. She works hard to suppress her feelings and protect her heart. When it comes to Sage, though, she isn’t always as fierce as I would like her to be. She gives in a lot to him, and I would have liked to see a bit more fight in her. Then, I also waver, and consider that she is like a lot of young women where the heart is concerned, easy to forgive and lost in their emotions. Her character, like Mel, is one I didn’t fully connect with.
No matter how one feels about the characters, it s undeniable that their chemistry is off the charts, partly because of the friendship that has developed of the years. I found that I really enjoyed their moments together where they could be intimate and laugh together, and Sage’s moments of possessiveness (it is one of the things I love most about her heroes) . There is certainly no lack of spark.
With all the angst and drama and the transition from friends to lovers, the pace moves incredibly fast. Most of the chapters deal with the exposition and rising action of the story, and although the conflict and climax of the story is a fantastic choice, it is introduced and resolved quickly. The resolution of the story, though, has to be one of the sweetest endings I’ve read in some time. I’m pretty sure an audible “Awww” slipped out of my mouth. Also, the new epilogue added a bit more to the ending of their story, and I felt good with where she left the characters.
LJ Shen is one of my absolute favorite writers, and The End Zone gives readers everything they love about her romances in a tight little package.
________
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
The extra epilogue that hints at her future project is HOT. AMAZING. A GIFT FROM THE GODS. Too much? It isn’t. Once you read it, you will understand. I CANNOT WAIT! Thank God she has more for us in 2018 or I’d be crying in the corner due to the waiting period. All I can say is get ready, because you don’t even know! This scene is about cause her fandom to combust! I swear.
4 Like Lovers Do CROWNS
The End Zone by LJ Shen gives readers a super angsty, high chemistry novella that is fast paced and entertaining with its dramatic and blush-worthy moments.
Sage and Jolie are best friends from childhood, and while we get minimal information about their friendship over the years, Shen establishes a believable relationship with the prologue. The foundation she creates between them in a single moment is one that makes their loyalty and love for each other believable. Once the story begins, though, the focus is on their sexual chemistry as well as the potential for it to be more.
Sage is the typical LJ Shen hero: abrasive, sexy, and, to be honest, a jerk, which is probably why I enjoy his character. I shouldn’t . I know this, but I just can’t help myself. There are moments when I wanted to punch him or roll my eyes over his antics, but I was also drawn to him with his cocky arrogance and vulnerability with Jolie. Plus, he knows that he can be an arrogant jerk, and he acknowledges it, which in part makes me okay with those parts, too.
Jolie, for me, is very reminiscent of Mel from Defy. She is smart and loyal to Sage. She works hard to suppress her feelings and protect her heart. When it comes to Sage, though, she isn’t always as fierce as I would like her to be. She gives in a lot to him, and I would have liked to see a bit more fight in her. Then, I also waver, and consider that she is like a lot of young women where the heart is concerned, easy to forgive and lost in their emotions. Her character, like Mel, is one I didn’t fully connect with.
No matter how one feels about the characters, it s undeniable that their chemistry is off the charts, partly because of the friendship that has developed of the years. I found that I really enjoyed their moments together where they could be intimate and laugh together, and Sage’s moments of possessiveness (it is one of the things I love most about her heroes) . There is certainly no lack of spark.
With all the angst and drama and the transition from friends to lovers, the pace moves incredibly fast. Most of the chapters deal with the exposition and rising action of the story, and although the conflict and climax of the story is a fantastic choice, it is introduced and resolved quickly. The resolution of the story, though, has to be one of the sweetest endings I’ve read in some time. I’m pretty sure an audible “Awww” slipped out of my mouth. Also, the new epilogue added a bit more to the ending of their story, and I felt good with where she left the characters.
LJ Shen is one of my absolute favorite writers, and The End Zone gives readers everything they love about her romances in a tight little package.
________
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2018
I read this book originally as part of the Team Player anthology and regardless of the time, my thoughts forThe End Zone was still the same... plus MORE because there's a lot more you'll get to read!
Original Review:
Holy Hell! Am I really reading a novella? Goodness! The book was packed with all things delicious! I tell you what, I have never been so happy I read LJ Shen's works. This woman and her writing is just FANTASTIC! End Zone is a friend's to lover's story that had me from the beginning. I love it so much I might have wished I have "Sage" in my life. Good Lordy! This is this moment I wished too that this book is a full length one. Jollie and Sage definitely is a winner for me.Instant connection? Check. Chemistry? Check. Passion and Lust? Check. Humor and drama? Check. Hot Sizzling Sex leaving you with female blue balls? Definitely Check. And what's more? It's Leigh's awesome writing. All these and her penchant for all things hot alpha a-hole hero and her strong heroine plus definitely more and you'll get to have a winner novella. For the love of all those holy, why can't it be a full length book? Ahhhh Leigh, you made me still in awe!
And the MORE I mentioned...
With the extended epilogue plus a bonus epilogue of Vicious, gahd! This just keeps getting better and better. I was more than captivated. I breathed the book and was hoping there's still more to it because I can't get enough of Leigh's words and her characters. It's nostalgic. I can still feel them lurking in my system ready to pounce anytime. It may be quite some time since I read these characters but the feels that hit me the moment I read this book, was priceless. Proof enough of how I much I missed them and how much am I so into them. Plus, because Leigh is one hell of a tease, she left me wanting for another MORE! If only I can crawl into that beautiful head of your's Leigh. I really will. ;)
Great job! I know there's a reason why I am rooting for your works, goodness Leigh Shen, you are one of the best!
September 10, 2018
I love everything Leigh writes, and this sexy sports novella is no exception. I love friends to lovers romance, add in a hot, jerkface jock hero and I'm a swoony mess.
April 4, 2018
English / Português
4,5 "like forever" stars
Another book by L.J. Shen on my list. One more book of hers that I love. I think it's the fifth book I read from the author and I want to read a lot more. I didn't know that THE END ZONE was a novella, but even short it was so good!!!!
The book tells the story of Sage and Jolie. Childhood friends who were living together in college time. This is a story about friends who discover that they actually are in love more than they imagined one for the other.
As I said before, the book is short, so it doesn't have much stuff happening. It get straight to the point and it doesn't get too much drama. It is a delicious read.
One characteristic I love about L.J Shen writing is that her characters are strong. Women who do not bow their heads and those men we hate, but we love at the same time. The wrong kind of right guy. Ya know? They have several flaws, sometimes they are arrogant and so stuck-up, but it's those guys who would basically do everything for the woman they love.
THE END ZONE is good, with sex scenes that OH MY GOD very hot and creative and a very fast reading with a delicious romance. I highly recommend it.
Oh! And it has a surprise in the end of the book. I'm sure who is already a fan of the author will freak out!
*I recieved and ARC of this book. Thank you!
--------------------
English / Português
4,5 "para sempre" estrelas
Mais um livro da L.J. Shen na minha lista. Mais um livro dela que eu amo. Acho que é o quinto livro que leio da autora e quero ler muito mais. Eu não sabia que THE END ZONE era um conto, mas mesmo curtinho foi tão bom!!!!
O livro conta a história de Sage e Jolie. Amigos de infância que estavam morando juntos na época da faculdade. Essa é uma história sobre amigos que descobrem que, na verdade, sentem um amor maior do que imaginavam um pelo outro.
Como disse antes, o livro é curto, e por isso não tem muita ladainha. Vai direto ao ponto e não fica enrolando no drama. É bem gostoso de ler.
Uma característica que adoro na escrita da L.J Shen é que seus personagens são fortes. Mulheres que não abaixam a cabeça e aqueles homens que nós odiamos, mas amamos ao mesmo tempo. O tipo mais errado de cara certo. Entende? Tem vários defeitos, por vezes arrogantes e metidos, mas são aqueles caras que no fundo fariam tudo pela mulher que ama.
THE END ZONE é muito gostoso, com cenas de sexo que OH MY GOD muito quentes e criativas e uma leitura bem rápida, com romance delicioso. Recomendo muito.
Ah! E tem um surpresa no final dessa história. Quem já é fã da autora vai surtar!
* Recebi um ARC desse livro. Obrigada!
----------------------
* Pick a Book
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[email protected]
4,5 "like forever" stars
Another book by L.J. Shen on my list. One more book of hers that I love. I think it's the fifth book I read from the author and I want to read a lot more. I didn't know that THE END ZONE was a novella, but even short it was so good!!!!
The book tells the story of Sage and Jolie. Childhood friends who were living together in college time. This is a story about friends who discover that they actually are in love more than they imagined one for the other.
As I said before, the book is short, so it doesn't have much stuff happening. It get straight to the point and it doesn't get too much drama. It is a delicious read.
One characteristic I love about L.J Shen writing is that her characters are strong. Women who do not bow their heads and those men we hate, but we love at the same time. The wrong kind of right guy. Ya know? They have several flaws, sometimes they are arrogant and so stuck-up, but it's those guys who would basically do everything for the woman they love.
THE END ZONE is good, with sex scenes that OH MY GOD very hot and creative and a very fast reading with a delicious romance. I highly recommend it.
Oh! And it has a surprise in the end of the book. I'm sure who is already a fan of the author will freak out!
*I recieved and ARC of this book. Thank you!
--------------------
English / Português
4,5 "para sempre" estrelas
Mais um livro da L.J. Shen na minha lista. Mais um livro dela que eu amo. Acho que é o quinto livro que leio da autora e quero ler muito mais. Eu não sabia que THE END ZONE era um conto, mas mesmo curtinho foi tão bom!!!!
O livro conta a história de Sage e Jolie. Amigos de infância que estavam morando juntos na época da faculdade. Essa é uma história sobre amigos que descobrem que, na verdade, sentem um amor maior do que imaginavam um pelo outro.
Como disse antes, o livro é curto, e por isso não tem muita ladainha. Vai direto ao ponto e não fica enrolando no drama. É bem gostoso de ler.
Uma característica que adoro na escrita da L.J Shen é que seus personagens são fortes. Mulheres que não abaixam a cabeça e aqueles homens que nós odiamos, mas amamos ao mesmo tempo. O tipo mais errado de cara certo. Entende? Tem vários defeitos, por vezes arrogantes e metidos, mas são aqueles caras que no fundo fariam tudo pela mulher que ama.
THE END ZONE é muito gostoso, com cenas de sexo que OH MY GOD muito quentes e criativas e uma leitura bem rápida, com romance delicioso. Recomendo muito.
Ah! E tem um surpresa no final dessa história. Quem já é fã da autora vai surtar!
* Recebi um ARC desse livro. Obrigada!
----------------------
* Pick a Book
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[email protected]
March 26, 2018
Re-read with the two extra epilogues:
Best extended epilogues EVER !
If you already read The End Zone while it was part of the Team Player Anthology, you still need to pick this one because the extra for Jolie &Sage’s story is absolutely hilarious!
In a matter of pages, I’ve swoon, combusted and laughed so hard!
The other extra epilogue is gonna drive you batshit crazy!! In a good way!
I want to tell more but I can’t, I don’t want to give anything away, just know that it’s one of the thing we were all waiting for!
L.J., only you could make our dream comes true! Thank you
Review after reading the Team Player Anthology:
"This is how beautiful love stories begin."
L.J. Shen gives us a sweet and funny story, just right on time for the holiday.
While there's nothing new with Jolie &Sage's story, L.J manage to write an entertaining and captivating novella. Sage is your traditional manwhore realising his best friend Jolie is the one for him.
“You’re kind of a prick, you know that, Poirier?” Oh, I know. Grew up with one. Became one. Vicious cycle, etc."
Within a few pages I connected with both characters. They could have been my friends and it was and a delight seeing them fall.
"Here is the end game: Jolie is not dating anyone. Jolie stays with me."
Sweet, light and sexy, perfect in every way, the End Zone is a treat I highly recommend
~I voluntary read a copy of this book provided by the author~
Best extended epilogues EVER !
If you already read The End Zone while it was part of the Team Player Anthology, you still need to pick this one because the extra for Jolie &Sage’s story is absolutely hilarious!
In a matter of pages, I’ve swoon, combusted and laughed so hard!
The other extra epilogue is gonna drive you batshit crazy!! In a good way!
I want to tell more but I can’t, I don’t want to give anything away, just know that it’s one of the thing we were all waiting for!
L.J., only you could make our dream comes true! Thank you
Review after reading the Team Player Anthology:
"This is how beautiful love stories begin."
L.J. Shen gives us a sweet and funny story, just right on time for the holiday.
While there's nothing new with Jolie &Sage's story, L.J manage to write an entertaining and captivating novella. Sage is your traditional manwhore realising his best friend Jolie is the one for him.
“You’re kind of a prick, you know that, Poirier?” Oh, I know. Grew up with one. Became one. Vicious cycle, etc."
Within a few pages I connected with both characters. They could have been my friends and it was and a delight seeing them fall.
"Here is the end game: Jolie is not dating anyone. Jolie stays with me."
Sweet, light and sexy, perfect in every way, the End Zone is a treat I highly recommend
~I voluntary read a copy of this book provided by the author~
April 19, 2018
sadly promising, but ultimately disappointing
this one just didn't work for me, but it's really not the book's fault. i think it's really really hard to make satisfying and convincing romances in less than 200 pages.
we get sage & jolie who honestly were pretty great. i liked their banter, i liked the way that sage was actually a completely lovable douchebag. it was so so different from any other l.j. shen book i've ever read, and i liked the versatility. and also in typical shen fashion, it was actually pretty well written.
but the jump from friends to lovers is hard to convincingly establish in such a short period. i was really excited and enjoyed the tension at the beginning but it was resolved too quickly. the only real conflict too, was kind of problematic and way too slut shame-y for me.
that being said, it was a fun read and i think this is one of the better short smut/na/novellas i've read.
this one just didn't work for me, but it's really not the book's fault. i think it's really really hard to make satisfying and convincing romances in less than 200 pages.
we get sage & jolie who honestly were pretty great. i liked their banter, i liked the way that sage was actually a completely lovable douchebag. it was so so different from any other l.j. shen book i've ever read, and i liked the versatility. and also in typical shen fashion, it was actually pretty well written.
but the jump from friends to lovers is hard to convincingly establish in such a short period. i was really excited and enjoyed the tension at the beginning but it was resolved too quickly. the only real conflict too, was kind of problematic and way too slut shame-y for me.
that being said, it was a fun read and i think this is one of the better short smut/na/novellas i've read.
June 16, 2020
I just put down my last read with the absolute intention of reading the next book in the series. Then I got a FB notification and saw someone asking for the name of a book and the plot they could remember sounded great. And I have been hearing such amazing things about L.J. Shen I figured this was a good way to dip my toe in the water.
I guess I should start by saying I really like her style and I will be reading more of her books soon. I already have half on my TBR thanks to friends recommendations. This story was sweet with the smallest touch of angst. And I really loved the meeting of these two as kids.
Jolie was the perfect new adult heroine. She was scared of being hurt and didn't want to risk her friendship with Sage and I completely understood where she was coming from every step of the way. Sage needed a solid smack in the head. But I loved him despite his stupidity. It helped that once he realised his heart was involved he wasn't afraid to go for it.
But the ending was pure romance goodness. I really am going to have to stalk more of this author's work.
I guess I should start by saying I really like her style and I will be reading more of her books soon. I already have half on my TBR thanks to friends recommendations. This story was sweet with the smallest touch of angst. And I really loved the meeting of these two as kids.
Jolie was the perfect new adult heroine. She was scared of being hurt and didn't want to risk her friendship with Sage and I completely understood where she was coming from every step of the way. Sage needed a solid smack in the head. But I loved him despite his stupidity. It helped that once he realised his heart was involved he wasn't afraid to go for it.
But the ending was pure romance goodness. I really am going to have to stalk more of this author's work.
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