The Crush

Books, Coffee & Passion

Adaline and Emmett have history. The classic case of the right person at the wrong time. 5 years ago, they were attracted to each other and had a connection. When Adaline confessed about having feelings for Emmett, Emmett was about to be drafted so he put football first. The timing was off, so they ended up not getting together and Emmett moved to Florida to play in the NFL.

Now, after a certain scary event, Emmett realizes that maybe his priorities were wrong. After talking with Parker, his friend and Adaline's brother, Emmett finds out that Adaline is now single... And he wants his chance with her. Adaline is not ready for a relationship. She also promised herself that she would never get involved with another athlete. Will the timing be right for this two after 5 years? Or are they in different mindsets again?

Even though Emmett and Adaline didn't have a relationship when they were younger, their story felt like a second chance story. I guess it really was, just because they weren't involved, that didn't mean they didn't have feelings for each other. Their connection was very strong from the moment Emmett showed up in Adaline's life again.

I loved how Emmett was completely sure that he wanted a relationship with Adaline from pretty much the beginning. I also enjoyed how he held back at first for her sake. He gave Adaline the time she needed and it was amazing to see how he put her needs first. I loved how their relationship progressed and how Emmett slowly convinced Adaline that they would work.

Another aspect I enjoyed in it was the focus on the hard life an athlete like Emmett has. Sure, they make tons of money, but the hard work, the crazy hours getting fit, training, bonding with their teammates, playing, the press, the fans, the constant traveling, the possibility of getting traded and moving to another city without much notice... That takes a toll on their personal and family life. And their families can sometimes suffer from their absence. I definitely understood Adaline's worries about having a steady relationship with an athlete.

Emmett and Adaline were so sweet together, I couldn't help falling in love with both of them. I enjoyed the family moments in this one too. Their families were great. I loved to see Allie making a cameo too! However, I wanted a little more from their past together. We didn't get to see the beginning of their connection and how they fell in love with each other in the past. Both of them talked about it, but I still felt like something was missing.

Overall, a sweet, super entertaining read, with lovable characters, strong chemistry and steamy moments, great banter, a few emotional moments, and stellar writing.