Review

Brannagh’s debut is perfect, in this first story about opera singer, Emily and defensive end Brandon.

These two meet on the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day, only to have their meeting end with Emily having a concussion. Brandon, being the man ‘whose mama raised him right’, won’t leave Emily alone. Since he was partially responsible for the injury he stays the night and by morning these two are ‘engaged’.

I love fake engagements. This one is probably my favorite because Brandon is truly the knight in shining armor the back cover blurb says he is. This man can set up shop in my house anytime. From taking care of Emily, to putting up with her attitude or buying her lavish gifts, Brandon is the perfect man. The only downside is that he’s trying to shed a bad boy image he received from a few poor choices.

Emily on the other hand is the heroine you’d love to slap. I get it she’s got fire-red hair and a bit of temper, but I couldn’t help but want to knock her around. Stubborn to a fault once someone makes a mistake or she thinks they do, she won’t back down. Needless to say I don’t think she deserved Brandon at all, and I despise heroines who don’t deserve their heroes.

This book does have a perfect mixture of a slow developing romance, no immediate sexual relations, but plenty of tension. There’s funny moments, hilarious nicknames, and plenty of secondary characters that help spice up the page. As to conflict Emily’s personality contributes as well as a few external factors. Brannagh hits the nail on the head with pacing and is able to complete a whirlwind romance over the period of a year in one book. I’m very impressed with that.

Overall, if you like sports and romance this book is one you should purchase right now. Brandon will also take all your misgivings towards Emily away. He stole mine.