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Met His Match #2
Offside Rules
Sometimes love takes balls.
Newly retired championship football player Simon Wood is taking on his next challenge. His plan for a charity to provide funding for underprivileged children to pursue football as a career has passed its first hurdle: he has backers and an executive consultant. Now it’s time to get the ball rolling.
Lucien Morel, heir to the multibillion-euro Morel Corporation, is shocked—and thrilled—to learn his father has volunteered him as consultant to a fledgling football charity. Better yet, the brains behind it all is heartthrob Simon Wood, his teenage idol and crush.
Although Simon and Lucien get off on the wrong foot, it’s not long before they’re getting along like a house on fire—sparks included.
But with the charity under public scrutiny, can their romance thrive?
Previously published as The Athlete and the Aristocrat
Newly retired championship football player Simon Wood is taking on his next challenge. His plan for a charity to provide funding for underprivileged children to pursue football as a career has passed its first hurdle: he has backers and an executive consultant. Now it’s time to get the ball rolling.
Lucien Morel, heir to the multibillion-euro Morel Corporation, is shocked—and thrilled—to learn his father has volunteered him as consultant to a fledgling football charity. Better yet, the brains behind it all is heartthrob Simon Wood, his teenage idol and crush.
Although Simon and Lucien get off on the wrong foot, it’s not long before they’re getting along like a house on fire—sparks included.
But with the charity under public scrutiny, can their romance thrive?
Previously published as The Athlete and the Aristocrat
254 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2019
About the author
Louisa Masters
64 books1,315 followersLOUISA MASTERS started reading romance much earlier than her mother thought she should. While other teenagers were sneaking out of the house, Louisa was sneaking romance novels in and working out how to read them without being discovered. She’s spent most of her life feeling sorry for people who don’t read, convinced that books are the solution to every problem. As an adult, she feeds her addiction in every spare second, only occasionally tearing herself away to do things like answer the phone and pay bills. She spent years trying to build a “sensible” career, working in bookstores, recruitment, resource management, administration, and as a travel agent, before finally conceding defeat and devoting herself to the world of romance novels. Louisa has a long list of places first discovered in books that she wants to visit, and every so often she overcomes her loathing of jet lag and takes a trip that charges her imagination. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, where she whines about the weather for most of the year while secretly admitting she’ll probably never move.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
December 29, 2018
A little comment on the side : I’m always apprehensive when French characters and settings are used. Either authors feel the need to include paragraphs in French - most of the time full of errors, which drives me up the wall – or insert so many bad clichés that it’s not even laughable. But not here, and just for that, a thumb up from me !!!
This is a MM Romance between two well fleshed out characters. Simon is a newly-retired UK professional football player, is now willing to dedicate his time to train underprivileged kids through a charity program. As for Lucien, he is not only the heir of a French millionaire, but also a talented businessman and very agreeable to get involved into his father’s plans to found Simon's project.
Through implementing this charity’s program, Simon and Lucien got to work together, to know each other and willing to succumb to their attraction. However, neither of them want to threaten the launch of the charity and both have a pretty busy schedule. Could their relationship go any further ? And what is exactly their relationship ?
I really enjoyed the premises, the characterization, the well-paced development of the romance, the addition of great friends (and a delightful assistant) and the level of steam in this book written by a "new-author to me". No dramalala, no epic heroism, but on the contrary, a solid contemporary romance : it perfectly fitted my reading mood.
ARC of “The Athlete and the Aristocrat” was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is a MM Romance between two well fleshed out characters. Simon is a newly-retired UK professional football player, is now willing to dedicate his time to train underprivileged kids through a charity program. As for Lucien, he is not only the heir of a French millionaire, but also a talented businessman and very agreeable to get involved into his father’s plans to found Simon's project.
Through implementing this charity’s program, Simon and Lucien got to work together, to know each other and willing to succumb to their attraction. However, neither of them want to threaten the launch of the charity and both have a pretty busy schedule. Could their relationship go any further ? And what is exactly their relationship ?
I really enjoyed the premises, the characterization, the well-paced development of the romance, the addition of great friends (and a delightful assistant) and the level of steam in this book written by a "new-author to me". No dramalala, no epic heroism, but on the contrary, a solid contemporary romance : it perfectly fitted my reading mood.
ARC of “The Athlete and the Aristocrat” was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I really loved how sweet Simon and Lucien are together. Lucien’s crush notwithstanding, he’s falling hard for the man that Simon is, not the player he had lusted for. Simon’s got a good deal of money saved away, though it’s nothing compared to Lucien’s wealth—or that of his best friends, who have jets and helicopters, and can magic them into and out of some of the most exclusive places. As a couple, there’s a bit of growing to do, but it won’t work if Simon doesn’t come out. He has to choose to do so, and that choice isn’t without consequences.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I really loved how sweet Simon and Lucien are together. Lucien’s crush notwithstanding, he’s falling hard for the man that Simon is, not the player he had lusted for. Simon’s got a good deal of money saved away, though it’s nothing compared to Lucien’s wealth—or that of his best friends, who have jets and helicopters, and can magic them into and out of some of the most exclusive places. As a couple, there’s a bit of growing to do, but it won’t work if Simon doesn’t come out. He has to choose to do so, and that choice isn’t without consequences.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
March 4, 2019
A copy of this story was provided free in return for an honest review via Goodreads Don't Buy My Love program.
Although the premise of this story was interesting in nature, what I got was less than expected. It was slightly repetitous in word usage. Definitely more telling then showing. The story lacked the emotional component to really make this good.
Furthermore, I was disappointed to not get more in depth descriptions of the cities: London, Paris, Monaco, Venice. It was as if I was expected to just know them and wasn't shown their beauty. Show me the history, the architecture, the cuisine... I wasn't looking for a lot, but a few sentences would have given me something, instead of the nothing I had. One of the MC's was French, and I wasn't even given more a few French words.
Although not stated, this is book 2 of a series. It held as a standalone, but by having not read Ben and Leo's story, I felt disconnected from some of the humor. Ben was obviously the comedic lightenment of the story, but his humor fell flat.
Unfortunatly, while I liked the overall story, the writing style lent nothing for me to love.
Although the premise of this story was interesting in nature, what I got was less than expected. It was slightly repetitous in word usage. Definitely more telling then showing. The story lacked the emotional component to really make this good.
Furthermore, I was disappointed to not get more in depth descriptions of the cities: London, Paris, Monaco, Venice. It was as if I was expected to just know them and wasn't shown their beauty. Show me the history, the architecture, the cuisine... I wasn't looking for a lot, but a few sentences would have given me something, instead of the nothing I had. One of the MC's was French, and I wasn't even given more a few French words.
Although not stated, this is book 2 of a series. It held as a standalone, but by having not read Ben and Leo's story, I felt disconnected from some of the humor. Ben was obviously the comedic lightenment of the story, but his humor fell flat.
Unfortunatly, while I liked the overall story, the writing style lent nothing for me to love.
December 14, 2019
There is usually a lot more focus on professional athletes while they are at the top of their sport, but that time is usually limited to a few years. What they do with their life afterwards ranges from “nothing much” to continued celebrity status to charitable work. This novel focuses on Simon, a professional football player (of the soccer variety) who wants to set up a Europe-wide charity to support underprivileged children so they can play football and maybe become professionals as well. It’s a very worthy goal, makes for an interesting story, and by the time Simon secures funding from a major European corporation, the fact that they supply him with an executive consultant who is the corporation’s owner’s son, Lucien, there is a personal dimension as well. It makes for a great mix and had me engaged from the start.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 9, 2019
Aww. This is a super fun quick romance with the joy of a retired athlete and super rich hero tropes all mixed up.
Both heroes and their friends and families are great as well.
I really liked them both and went and bought the last book in the series at once.
A very good category style romance with "exotic" location and romance.
Both heroes and their friends and families are great as well.
I really liked them both and went and bought the last book in the series at once.
A very good category style romance with "exotic" location and romance.
October 15, 2023
The Athlete and the Aristocrat is the second book in the ‘Met His Match’ series. This stars Simon Wood, a newly retired champion soccer player, and Lucien Morel, heir to a multibillion-dollar company. This is told in third person from Simon and Lucien’s povs.
I enjoyed this story. I would say it was more on the fluffy side even though the MC’s had some obstacles to overcome. Mostly it was about Simon and Lucien and how they’d work together to get Simon’s charity idea up and running while also navigating Lucien and Simon's attraction to each other. I think some of Lucien’s friends showed up in a previous book, which I didn’t read, but I don’t think it’s that difficult to figure out what is happening in this one.
I liked both Simon and Lucien. They were both nice men, also both stubborn. Lucien did live a privileged life and he tended to expect others to treat him in a certain way, which was one of his negative traits. Lucien hated London, but that’s where Simon lived and he loved it, so they had to negotiate on how they were going to work out where the charity was based and where they’d live. Simon tended to be optimistic and was really looking forward to the new phase in his life in creating the charity. I think the two men were suited to each other. The author did a good job of convincing the reader that the men had differences but worked at their relationship. Simon and Lucien also had distinct voices so it was easy to keep them separate. I also liked Lucien’s friends who often showed up in the story. All of them were good guys although it was written as these men had privileged lives and the one character who didn’t grow up privileged, was the only person who considered other people who didn’t grow up with money.
I also liked the balance the author had concerning life in France and Simon having to navigate the language there and traveling to different countries. There was always the element of Simon being lost because he didn't speak French, but we weren't subjected to lots of French, which the reader wouldn't necessarily understand. I for one, am glad the author didn't go the route of adding in too much French. A little is fine, but not a lot. I was able to feel like I was in other countries, so the way the author wrote that part of the plot worked.
I liked The Athlete and the Aristocrat. It was an easy, fluffy, quick read with enjoyable characters, both Simon, Lucien, and their friends. The only thing that I wish the author had added, was that Simon had also created a soccer camp or charity for girl soccer players. I understand this was an MM story, but there could’ve been a short add on at the end about how Simon had expanded, or planned on adding a girl’s camp also, because it felt like the girls were being neglected once again, in a sport that they also love. Anyway, I’d recommend this book to others. I give this, 4 Stars.
I enjoyed this story. I would say it was more on the fluffy side even though the MC’s had some obstacles to overcome. Mostly it was about Simon and Lucien and how they’d work together to get Simon’s charity idea up and running while also navigating Lucien and Simon's attraction to each other. I think some of Lucien’s friends showed up in a previous book, which I didn’t read, but I don’t think it’s that difficult to figure out what is happening in this one.
I liked both Simon and Lucien. They were both nice men, also both stubborn. Lucien did live a privileged life and he tended to expect others to treat him in a certain way, which was one of his negative traits. Lucien hated London, but that’s where Simon lived and he loved it, so they had to negotiate on how they were going to work out where the charity was based and where they’d live. Simon tended to be optimistic and was really looking forward to the new phase in his life in creating the charity. I think the two men were suited to each other. The author did a good job of convincing the reader that the men had differences but worked at their relationship. Simon and Lucien also had distinct voices so it was easy to keep them separate. I also liked Lucien’s friends who often showed up in the story. All of them were good guys although it was written as these men had privileged lives and the one character who didn’t grow up privileged, was the only person who considered other people who didn’t grow up with money.
I also liked the balance the author had concerning life in France and Simon having to navigate the language there and traveling to different countries. There was always the element of Simon being lost because he didn't speak French, but we weren't subjected to lots of French, which the reader wouldn't necessarily understand. I for one, am glad the author didn't go the route of adding in too much French. A little is fine, but not a lot. I was able to feel like I was in other countries, so the way the author wrote that part of the plot worked.
I liked The Athlete and the Aristocrat. It was an easy, fluffy, quick read with enjoyable characters, both Simon, Lucien, and their friends. The only thing that I wish the author had added, was that Simon had also created a soccer camp or charity for girl soccer players. I understand this was an MM story, but there could’ve been a short add on at the end about how Simon had expanded, or planned on adding a girl’s camp also, because it felt like the girls were being neglected once again, in a sport that they also love. Anyway, I’d recommend this book to others. I give this, 4 Stars.
February 13, 2019
Oh my gah the opening line of this blurb cracked me up so bad. I swear I'm like a teenager sometimes. But it was a good book as well. I loved that it was for underprivileged kids. I wish we had more programs like that where I live. Kids need things like sports and arts as well.
For Simon, he had spent years investing and saving his money. Yeah, he could have been like most athletes and blown in on the luxury lifestyle of the pro-athlete, but he had a goal in mind when he retired and now it was time to make it happen. A charity to help underprivileged kids to be able to play football (soccer). He had several people in mind to help, and fortunately, the head of the Morel Corporation decided to help him. Corporately and privately. The stipulation was that the son, Lucien, had to help run it for the first five years. For Simon, it was a godsend because although having a degree, he was new at this game and needed a businessman to help run it and get everything going. It also didn't hurt that Lucien was a fox. What started out as a business relationship quickly turned into a friendship. And when they discovered they both were bisexual with the hots for each other, it became even more. But it was not a fairytale. Simon wasn't officially out as bi, although there were rumors, so when nasty media started it's turned a charity dream and a bidding relationship into something looked at with malice. With interviews flying to dispel the rumors, they hoped it would be enough, but they didn't know if anything would survive.
Simon had me the minute i saw his dream. I wish we had more people in this world who truly thought of kids and a way to help them. He didn't know if he would be able to make this dream come true but he was determined no matter. I wanted to hug him. He's a man with a big heart and a passion for something special. And of course, heaven forbid he be different on top of that. People just have to be nasty.
I was so grateful for Lucien. Not only did he have a huge crush on Simon, but he was actually perfect for him. Yeah, sometimes Lucien was maybe a bit too aristocratic, but Simon mellowed him more, along with some friends of theirs. And underneath all that polish and shine, he was a passionate man himself. He had been dreaming of doing something like this himself. He was shocked when his father agreed to do it for Simon.
What cracked me up so bad, was Lucien's father’s ulterior motives. You will see. It's hilarious. Just when Lucien thought he couldn't be more surprised, his father laid a big one on him. I also loved Lucien's friends. They were pistols. Always picking at him, but in good fun. They had a great relationship and welcomed Simon right in.
So, a good book. Laughter, a few tears, and happy ones too. A good read.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
For Simon, he had spent years investing and saving his money. Yeah, he could have been like most athletes and blown in on the luxury lifestyle of the pro-athlete, but he had a goal in mind when he retired and now it was time to make it happen. A charity to help underprivileged kids to be able to play football (soccer). He had several people in mind to help, and fortunately, the head of the Morel Corporation decided to help him. Corporately and privately. The stipulation was that the son, Lucien, had to help run it for the first five years. For Simon, it was a godsend because although having a degree, he was new at this game and needed a businessman to help run it and get everything going. It also didn't hurt that Lucien was a fox. What started out as a business relationship quickly turned into a friendship. And when they discovered they both were bisexual with the hots for each other, it became even more. But it was not a fairytale. Simon wasn't officially out as bi, although there were rumors, so when nasty media started it's turned a charity dream and a bidding relationship into something looked at with malice. With interviews flying to dispel the rumors, they hoped it would be enough, but they didn't know if anything would survive.
Simon had me the minute i saw his dream. I wish we had more people in this world who truly thought of kids and a way to help them. He didn't know if he would be able to make this dream come true but he was determined no matter. I wanted to hug him. He's a man with a big heart and a passion for something special. And of course, heaven forbid he be different on top of that. People just have to be nasty.
I was so grateful for Lucien. Not only did he have a huge crush on Simon, but he was actually perfect for him. Yeah, sometimes Lucien was maybe a bit too aristocratic, but Simon mellowed him more, along with some friends of theirs. And underneath all that polish and shine, he was a passionate man himself. He had been dreaming of doing something like this himself. He was shocked when his father agreed to do it for Simon.
What cracked me up so bad, was Lucien's father’s ulterior motives. You will see. It's hilarious. Just when Lucien thought he couldn't be more surprised, his father laid a big one on him. I also loved Lucien's friends. They were pistols. Always picking at him, but in good fun. They had a great relationship and welcomed Simon right in.
So, a good book. Laughter, a few tears, and happy ones too. A good read.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
January 12, 2019
The Athlete and the Aristocrat (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Hot Tree Promotions for an honest review. I have voluntarily read this book and have provided my honest opinion.
"An Amazing Story Filled With Love, Hope, and, Strength..."
An emotionally surprising, heart-warming, wonderful read with gripping and hopeful moments, rounded with absolutely amazing, gush-worthy characters, all set within gorgeously diverse settings has left this reader craving for more from this addicting series.
Ever come across a story that takes you by surprise with a force similar to that of a powerful bolt of lightening? Yeah, I just had one of those..
Having the opportunity to read through a series that has quickly become a must-read for me, I welcomed the chance at reading the next book from this series. As the giddiness from reading The Bunny and the Billionaire, by Louisa Masters still had been roaming thorough my mind, I was clearly very eager to read the next story. Needlessly to say, The Athlete and the Aristocrat did not disappoint. I loved it! I had a feeling I would, but, it all-of-a-sudden came at me like that lightening bolt, and it had shocked and quite frankly stunned me at how the plot actually came together by the end. It's lengthy and detailed plot, the admirable, dedicated, and sexy main characters, the truly amazing secondary characters, and the gorgeous settings all took me for quite the ride.
Man-oh-man.. did this story take me by surprise, like a slowly moving strike of a snake, I was ensnared by its intriguing and emotional plot. With an interest in sports, I was extremely interested in the plight of the main characters and was able to hold my emotions in check, barely, as I read through their journey with its heart-breaking purpose.�� I was glued to the pages of my kindle as the twists and turns came at me with their own purpose and destination. I loved the incorporation of the multiple sub-plots which seemed to each have a beautiful mind of their own. And then the ending..through crocodile-tears and unfounded giddiness, I found myself cheering, and, jumping for joy for such an incredible feat that had that tint-of-surprise that had me re-reading it immediately..
Even though the storyline was such an emotionally full-filling one, there were some parts of the plot that despite either being hidden or completely glanced over, and even though this reader completely recommends The Athlete and the Aristocrat, by Louisa Masters, I had wished for further development in these particular areas.
As a whole, even though it had also contained a seemingly lengthy plot with a somewhat slow pace, it's characters had brought this amazing sort of transformation that had brought the storyline to a whole new level that hadn't originally been evident. For this reason, I absolutely loved how it all developed into quite the heart-warmingly beautiful and fulfilling story.. I absolutely loved it..:)
*star rating: 4.10 'I really liked it' stars*
February 2, 2019
A fun, low-angst read about a former football (soccer) champion and the heir to a multi-millionaire dollar corporation. Simon Wood was a successful ball player, but his life goal was not just to succeed on the field, but to start a scholarship program to help up-and-coming players who might not be able to afford the expenses associated with playing the sport. When he approaches the head of the Morel Corporation, Édouard Morel, for financial backing, he is surprised when Edouard offers the services of his son Lucien as a business consultant. If you are a Dreamspun Desires reader, you may remember Lucien from The Bunny and the Billionaire), where he was featured as a friend of the MC, Léo. The other characters from The Bunny and the Billionaire show up here again, and are a fun addition to the story. It was great to see Léo and Ben again, as well as their friend Malik. Though I'm not really sure where the aristocrat in the title comes from, this was overall a heart-warming read about the effects that scholarships can have on people's lives.
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July 5, 2023
DNF. The dialogue felt weak and some actions of the characters just don’t make them seem like business men adults
December 18, 2019
There is usually a lot more focus on professional athletes while they are at the top of their sport, but that time is often limited to a few years. What they do with their life afterwards ranges from “nothing much” to continued celebrity status to charitable work. This novel focuses on Simon, a professional football player (of the soccer variety) who wants to set up a Europe-wide charity to support underprivileged children so they can play football and maybe become professionals as well. It’s a very worthy goal, makes for an interesting story, and by the time Simon secures funding from a major European corporation, the fact that they supply him with an executive consultant who is the corporation’s owner’s son, Lucien, there is a personal dimension as well. It makes for a great mix and had me engaged from the start.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 20, 2019
The Athlete and the Aristocrat by Louisa Masters pairs Simon and Lucien together. One is an ex-footballer who is trying to start a charity to help kids, and the other is the consultant for the charity, who is also meeting his longtime celebrity crush. Sounds like the makings of a lot of sparks. Things aren't that easy though.
The book has a great premise and what is described as something that would be a great read, but it fell a little flat for me. The story was enjoyable and had moments where I found myself smiling or experiencing an emotional pull, however, the moments were few and far between. Not only that, it felt like the chemistry was forced in parts. The writing was well done, but there were parts I wished were more flushed out and that the author had done a little more research. Some parts left me shaking my head. 3.5 stars.
The book has a great premise and what is described as something that would be a great read, but it fell a little flat for me. The story was enjoyable and had moments where I found myself smiling or experiencing an emotional pull, however, the moments were few and far between. Not only that, it felt like the chemistry was forced in parts. The writing was well done, but there were parts I wished were more flushed out and that the author had done a little more research. Some parts left me shaking my head. 3.5 stars.
January 20, 2019
Simon is determined and hard working. He is excited to be on the edge of realizing his big dream. Lucien is also a strong man who bring his network and expertise to the endeavor. I like that both men are strong and capable. Both of them stand up for what they think is the right direction. But they also have much to offer each other. And Lucien's dad is just plan crafty.
March 3, 2019
Really enjoyed the first book in this series, and this is just as good. Loved the MCs' chemistry and their interactions. Intrigued to know if we get another coupling from this author ;)
May 11, 2019
*** audio book review ***
I enjoyed this story so much. This is the story of Simon Wood, a retired athlete who wants to start a charity to help unprivileged kids pursue an athletic career in football (soccer to us in the U.S). He works on the project with Lucien Morel whose father owns the company providing him with the opportunity. They seem like opposites. But they are the perfect match. It takes them awhile to admit their attraction but it can't be denied for long. Then the media gets involved and they always make a mess of things. Simon, who hasn't officially come out yet, has to decide what to do. He doesn't want anyone to think that he started this charity for any other reason than that he wanted to give the opportunity to others that might not get it other wise. Lucien knows what he wants and isn't ashamed to admit it's Simon. I loved this story for so many reasons. This is the first story I have read/listened to with bisexual characters. It was refreshing for a story to show how normal it is. Also having a celebrity character whose main focus isn't himself but helping others. His heart is really in it. I also loved Lucien who could have been a wealthy snob. But he wasn't. His heart was as big as Simon's. I loved them together. I was rooting for them the whole time. I will admit the narrators voice threw me off at first. But quickly I was in awe of this narrator. The way he switched to different accents for different characters was impressive. He did a great job and I felt like I was listening to real conversations. I highly recommend this book.
I enjoyed this story so much. This is the story of Simon Wood, a retired athlete who wants to start a charity to help unprivileged kids pursue an athletic career in football (soccer to us in the U.S). He works on the project with Lucien Morel whose father owns the company providing him with the opportunity. They seem like opposites. But they are the perfect match. It takes them awhile to admit their attraction but it can't be denied for long. Then the media gets involved and they always make a mess of things. Simon, who hasn't officially come out yet, has to decide what to do. He doesn't want anyone to think that he started this charity for any other reason than that he wanted to give the opportunity to others that might not get it other wise. Lucien knows what he wants and isn't ashamed to admit it's Simon. I loved this story for so many reasons. This is the first story I have read/listened to with bisexual characters. It was refreshing for a story to show how normal it is. Also having a celebrity character whose main focus isn't himself but helping others. His heart is really in it. I also loved Lucien who could have been a wealthy snob. But he wasn't. His heart was as big as Simon's. I loved them together. I was rooting for them the whole time. I will admit the narrators voice threw me off at first. But quickly I was in awe of this narrator. The way he switched to different accents for different characters was impressive. He did a great job and I felt like I was listening to real conversations. I highly recommend this book.
January 10, 2024
I spend a lot of time crying happy tears when I read books by this author.
And, I mean, I’m not mad about it. Feel a little like a confused toddler who needs a nap and has big emotions for no reason as a result, but it’s not bad.
This trilogy? R O M A N C E. I swear it’s like half the romances I read aren’t even romantic anymore. I miss it. I’m literally reading romances with no real romance and it’s weird. But I don’t ever have to worry about that when I’m reading anything by this author. They bring the balls-to-the-wall love story and they make it G O O D. I guarantee if they wrote a dark romance, it would actually contain romance. I would read that.
The mechanics were fine, albeit with a few more easily corrected mistakes that got missed. It wasn’t anything that would ruin the book, so it’s not the end of the world. The improbability factor is less than the first book, too, so that little bump in “this could definitely happen” made things EVEN BETTER, though I will always be up for a contemporary faerytale done right.
I loved this story. I loved the love, I loved the plot, I loved the setting and the characters…Tim and Anna have officially been shipped.
4.5/5. I’m sad that I couldn’t get my hands on the holiday short story, but I am excited that I was able to score book three, even if there’s only like two other MF things I read anymore. I’m excited to dove into Malik and Dani’s story, but I’m sad that it’ll be the last one with these characters. I’m attached. I love them. They are precious and I want to hug them all.
And, I mean, I’m not mad about it. Feel a little like a confused toddler who needs a nap and has big emotions for no reason as a result, but it’s not bad.
This trilogy? R O M A N C E. I swear it’s like half the romances I read aren’t even romantic anymore. I miss it. I’m literally reading romances with no real romance and it’s weird. But I don’t ever have to worry about that when I’m reading anything by this author. They bring the balls-to-the-wall love story and they make it G O O D. I guarantee if they wrote a dark romance, it would actually contain romance. I would read that.
The mechanics were fine, albeit with a few more easily corrected mistakes that got missed. It wasn’t anything that would ruin the book, so it’s not the end of the world. The improbability factor is less than the first book, too, so that little bump in “this could definitely happen” made things EVEN BETTER, though I will always be up for a contemporary faerytale done right.
I loved this story. I loved the love, I loved the plot, I loved the setting and the characters…Tim and Anna have officially been shipped.
4.5/5. I’m sad that I couldn’t get my hands on the holiday short story, but I am excited that I was able to score book three, even if there’s only like two other MF things I read anymore. I’m excited to dove into Malik and Dani’s story, but I’m sad that it’ll be the last one with these characters. I’m attached. I love them. They are precious and I want to hug them all.
January 20, 2019
This was fun and sweet. Two adorable men trying to work their way into their feelings while working together. Both Si and Lucien are attracted to one another and feel something strong instantly but are trying to justify it and fight it at the same time. Lucien the business man who is out and very stoic but feels so much and keeps his emotions under control you can tell loves Simon but is scared. Scared Simon doesn't feel the same and if something goes wrong him and Simon's business relationship with suffer. Simon the one that is more open with his feelings but not his sexuality loves Lucien but has the same fears. Together they navigate starting a charity and falling in love while dealing with the thoughts of the public and support of Lucien's awesome friends and family.
I love Lucien the most because of how stoic he seems but with his friend's he is fun loving and mischievous. With Simon we see such a tender and loving side. And his support from his family is heartwarming. His friends are a hoot.
Simon is affectionate, fun loving and kind. His passion spills out and is infectious. I love his interactions with Lucien because we see different sides of them both but see how well they fit together and are what the other needs.
The book is funloving, sweet and adoring. You fall in love with the characters and story as they fall in love with one another and help make a dream come true.
I love Lucien the most because of how stoic he seems but with his friend's he is fun loving and mischievous. With Simon we see such a tender and loving side. And his support from his family is heartwarming. His friends are a hoot.
Simon is affectionate, fun loving and kind. His passion spills out and is infectious. I love his interactions with Lucien because we see different sides of them both but see how well they fit together and are what the other needs.
The book is funloving, sweet and adoring. You fall in love with the characters and story as they fall in love with one another and help make a dream come true.
December 31, 2018
The Athlete and The Aristocrat is a fun book by Louisa Masters.
Simon is intriguing and nice, dreaming of establishing a charity to help kids. His reason for wanting this charity is touching and from the heart. It's a fantastic idea and can help so many kids. This immediately had me charmed by Simon.
Lucien is the one to help him with the charity. It's dangerous to mix business and pleasure, but the attraction is certainly there.
When they do start their discreet relationship, there are so cute together, as well as perfect for each other. They start with a no strings attached relationship, but their chemistry and natural connection create a slow burn friends to lovers relationship.
Along the way, they have to deal with the fact that Simon's a closeted former athlete, the public perception if their relationship goes public, and more.
One of my favorite parts is the conversation about the nicknames and the importance of them. It just melted my heart, as it's emotional, and incredibly meaningful.
As well, their first "I love you" is awesome, as it's funny, touching and memorable. Seriously, it is not at all what one would expect, but it's perfect for these two.
I totally enjoyed The Athlete and The Aristocrat. It contains some cute "surprises" that I suspected, but still found adorable. This enchanting tale is definitely inspirational and worth a read.
Simon is intriguing and nice, dreaming of establishing a charity to help kids. His reason for wanting this charity is touching and from the heart. It's a fantastic idea and can help so many kids. This immediately had me charmed by Simon.
Lucien is the one to help him with the charity. It's dangerous to mix business and pleasure, but the attraction is certainly there.
When they do start their discreet relationship, there are so cute together, as well as perfect for each other. They start with a no strings attached relationship, but their chemistry and natural connection create a slow burn friends to lovers relationship.
Along the way, they have to deal with the fact that Simon's a closeted former athlete, the public perception if their relationship goes public, and more.
One of my favorite parts is the conversation about the nicknames and the importance of them. It just melted my heart, as it's emotional, and incredibly meaningful.
As well, their first "I love you" is awesome, as it's funny, touching and memorable. Seriously, it is not at all what one would expect, but it's perfect for these two.
I totally enjoyed The Athlete and The Aristocrat. It contains some cute "surprises" that I suspected, but still found adorable. This enchanting tale is definitely inspirational and worth a read.
May 12, 2021
Sports themed sequel
3.5
This title's a second in an MM Contemporary Romance Series. Billionaire Romance. Sports romance. Forced proximity. HEA. Different main characters as in the first title but the other one is a previous side character and everyone from book 1 appears also here.
This title's also a nice read but not so easy, light and fluffy as the previous one. It doesn't fill that slot. There's *some* angst toward the end but all's well that ends well. It's a a bit more dryer, the plot demanding much more concentration to follow. The whole tone of the story is different and heavier despite the same framework. In this it's not a successful sequel as in it's not similar enough for it to appeal in the same manner as strongly to those expecting that kind of story telling tone based on what the first title was like. Lots of the the charm of title one is missing. It's nice yes, but not the same. The new style breaks the series style and I have to wonder at such choices. Readers love some series starter expect then more of the same and it's disappointing not to find it despite some sequel bring quite nice too in its own way just like here the case. But this book isn't like book one so you cannot continue the fluffy fun binge like that due to it not being such. It's too serious for that.
3.5
This title's a second in an MM Contemporary Romance Series. Billionaire Romance. Sports romance. Forced proximity. HEA. Different main characters as in the first title but the other one is a previous side character and everyone from book 1 appears also here.
This title's also a nice read but not so easy, light and fluffy as the previous one. It doesn't fill that slot. There's *some* angst toward the end but all's well that ends well. It's a a bit more dryer, the plot demanding much more concentration to follow. The whole tone of the story is different and heavier despite the same framework. In this it's not a successful sequel as in it's not similar enough for it to appeal in the same manner as strongly to those expecting that kind of story telling tone based on what the first title was like. Lots of the the charm of title one is missing. It's nice yes, but not the same. The new style breaks the series style and I have to wonder at such choices. Readers love some series starter expect then more of the same and it's disappointing not to find it despite some sequel bring quite nice too in its own way just like here the case. But this book isn't like book one so you cannot continue the fluffy fun binge like that due to it not being such. It's too serious for that.
February 20, 2019
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program.
A sweet romance, which is what this series of books is supposed to be. It was a quick, easy read that hit the spot that I was looking to fill after a series of heavier reads. The relationship that slowly developed between Simon and Lucien was nice and happened at a good pace. I liked the goal these two were working for together and that helped with the enjoyment of the story. The only thing that was out of sorts for me was Lucien’s father’s declaration near the end of the story; not quite sure how I feel about that. I didn’t feel like it fit what was happening in the story and wasn’t really necessary for that to be revealed in such a public manner.
The story was well balanced and wasn’t centered on the main characters alone. The interaction with Lucien’s friends was nice and added to the story’s development. I would have liked to see a bit of Simon’s family as he portrayed that he was close to them, but they never appeared.
I had not read anything by this author previously, but see that two of the characters in this story were featured in a previous Dreamspun story by this author. Not sure if I’ll go back and read it, but will consider future books by this author.
A sweet romance, which is what this series of books is supposed to be. It was a quick, easy read that hit the spot that I was looking to fill after a series of heavier reads. The relationship that slowly developed between Simon and Lucien was nice and happened at a good pace. I liked the goal these two were working for together and that helped with the enjoyment of the story. The only thing that was out of sorts for me was Lucien’s father’s declaration near the end of the story; not quite sure how I feel about that. I didn’t feel like it fit what was happening in the story and wasn’t really necessary for that to be revealed in such a public manner.
The story was well balanced and wasn’t centered on the main characters alone. The interaction with Lucien’s friends was nice and added to the story’s development. I would have liked to see a bit of Simon’s family as he portrayed that he was close to them, but they never appeared.
I had not read anything by this author previously, but see that two of the characters in this story were featured in a previous Dreamspun story by this author. Not sure if I’ll go back and read it, but will consider future books by this author.
November 18, 2020
Great recovery from the first!
I decided to read this novel despite not finishing the first because I really liked the other novel by this author. Thank goodness I did! I really enjoyed the characters in this story; like all of Louisa Masters's books that I've read, they feel realistic and fleshed out. I even found Ben from the first book much more likable in this one - the author cameo'ed him and Leo every chance she got.
I think the definite plot and the theme of charity was really inspiring in this book (compared to the first one, which didn't really have much of a plot hook). I know the ending was cheesy, but I still found myself smiling at how everything worked out.
My one gripe is how much the author (via Luc) hated on London. I love London as a city to work and live in, though not so much when I first visited as a tourist. I'm sure Paris is nice (their work-life balance is probably much more life balanced), but London is pretty wonderful as well.
I decided to read this novel despite not finishing the first because I really liked the other novel by this author. Thank goodness I did! I really enjoyed the characters in this story; like all of Louisa Masters's books that I've read, they feel realistic and fleshed out. I even found Ben from the first book much more likable in this one - the author cameo'ed him and Leo every chance she got.
I think the definite plot and the theme of charity was really inspiring in this book (compared to the first one, which didn't really have much of a plot hook). I know the ending was cheesy, but I still found myself smiling at how everything worked out.
My one gripe is how much the author (via Luc) hated on London. I love London as a city to work and live in, though not so much when I first visited as a tourist. I'm sure Paris is nice (their work-life balance is probably much more life balanced), but London is pretty wonderful as well.
March 9, 2019
I received a copy of The Athlete and the Aristocrat by Louisa Masters from LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review. It’s been a while since I read a Dreamspun Desires story and I’d forgotten how much fun they can be! I’d actually read The Bunny and the Billionaire by Masters and The Athlete is set in the same world, with the characters of The Bunny making an important appearance, although The Athlete can be read as a stand-alone. Simon and Lucien are great characters, both lovable yet human at the same time. Of course, the path to true love does not run smooth, but love triumphs in the end, which is what we want from category romance. While not a sports fan myself, the importance of it in the story added a grounding touch. The book delivered what the series promises - heartwarming heroes, captivating plots, and exotic settings.
June 9, 2019
Simon is an ex-footballer star. He is now opening a charity and looking for backing with the Morel Corporation in Paris. Not only does he get more than he asks for he gets a consultant as well. Lucien has had a crush on Simon since he was young and is more than happy to have this opportunity plus, he has wanted to expand his father’s charity into the sports and arts fields. The two men have great chemistry.
The story is well written, fast-paced, and the characters are interesting as is the plot. The story is good, and I liked it, I just didn’t quite fall in love with it. I like a bit of conflict and the story just ran really smooth and sweet.
The narration was okay it just didn't pull me in and hook me.
If you like a sweet romance, ex-sports heroes, millionaires, coming out and an allover sweet happy romance this is for you.
The story is well written, fast-paced, and the characters are interesting as is the plot. The story is good, and I liked it, I just didn’t quite fall in love with it. I like a bit of conflict and the story just ran really smooth and sweet.
The narration was okay it just didn't pull me in and hook me.
If you like a sweet romance, ex-sports heroes, millionaires, coming out and an allover sweet happy romance this is for you.
December 25, 2022
In the world of the rich and posh there is room for good
Retired footballer Simon has a dream of setting up a foundation to support disadvantaged youth trying to learn the skills to get into the big leagues.
He receives help in both funding and a consultant, Lucien, who’s an expert in setting up businesses and charities. They work closely, and for Lucien, his teen rush is even more of an amazing person in adult life.
Their relationship starts out casually, but soon they realize they fit naturally into each other’s lives. After some scandal, and some help from friends, they can live their lives and make a lot if kids’ dreams come true, together.
Interesting premise, especially with the challenges of media and the internet acting as judge and jury at the click of a mouse.
Enjoyable.
KU
Retired footballer Simon has a dream of setting up a foundation to support disadvantaged youth trying to learn the skills to get into the big leagues.
He receives help in both funding and a consultant, Lucien, who’s an expert in setting up businesses and charities. They work closely, and for Lucien, his teen rush is even more of an amazing person in adult life.
Their relationship starts out casually, but soon they realize they fit naturally into each other’s lives. After some scandal, and some help from friends, they can live their lives and make a lot if kids’ dreams come true, together.
Interesting premise, especially with the challenges of media and the internet acting as judge and jury at the click of a mouse.
Enjoyable.
KU
July 24, 2019
This is my first read from Louisa Masters and I have to say, I enjoyed the heck out of it. Lucien and Simon are great men, doing great things in life, working hard for themselves and the people around them. Simeon’s idea for a charity starts the balls a’rollin for these two very work oriented men.
Big hearts, big pockets and big love is what you get with this story. It’s emotional, heavy, light and a whole host of emotions that have you cycling back and forth. The men, both overly dedicated to this new projects throw themselves at it, hitting the ground running and as they do, working side by side, a bond starts to form between them.
Lust and love have nothing on them. They take it, use it, own it and in the end, it’s the best choice they could have ever made.
Big hearts, big pockets and big love is what you get with this story. It’s emotional, heavy, light and a whole host of emotions that have you cycling back and forth. The men, both overly dedicated to this new projects throw themselves at it, hitting the ground running and as they do, working side by side, a bond starts to form between them.
Lust and love have nothing on them. They take it, use it, own it and in the end, it’s the best choice they could have ever made.
December 29, 2018
Another fun and delectable read by Louisa Masters, this time with a swoon-worthy football player and a character I loved in The Bunny and the Billionaire, Lucien.
Both characters were immediately likable and easy to support and cheer on. Not only are both personalities well-rounded and fleshed out, but as a couple, they're pretty remarkable.
The storyline was well-paced and plotted, and I especially loved the fact the author didn't include unnecessary drama for drama's sake. This is an element that is refreshing for contemporary romance but is something I lovingly expect from Louisa Masters.
This author never disappoints.
Both characters were immediately likable and easy to support and cheer on. Not only are both personalities well-rounded and fleshed out, but as a couple, they're pretty remarkable.
The storyline was well-paced and plotted, and I especially loved the fact the author didn't include unnecessary drama for drama's sake. This is an element that is refreshing for contemporary romance but is something I lovingly expect from Louisa Masters.
This author never disappoints.
May 9, 2019
This struck me as sort of a run-of-the-mill story. The rich consultant comes in to help the newly retired footballer set up a charity--and of course there's an attraction. And all of the things you would expect about working with someone you're attracted to but aren't quite sure how to say it crop up. But there is an added element here in terms of considering appearances and propriety--both men are committed to the higher purpose of their work and don't want to see that impacted in any way by their personal feelings and relationship. Even though I was a bit surprised that one of them possessed the maturity to think that way...I'll let you guess which.
May 15, 2021
"Offside Rules" received THREE stars.
These two didn’t catch my heart as much as Leo and Ben, but still a good read.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
These two didn’t catch my heart as much as Leo and Ben, but still a good read.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
February 11, 2019
Book cover: 3/5
Book: 3/5
The Athlete and the Aristocrat had an interesting premise and the main characters were both likeable. The issue is that the story ended up being boring and flat. And towards the end, everything is wrapped up in the most shiny of red bows.
It was difficult to finish and frustrating to read because it was boring with few exceptions. It wasn't badly written, but too long and without enough happening to make it compelling.
Book: 3/5
The Athlete and the Aristocrat had an interesting premise and the main characters were both likeable. The issue is that the story ended up being boring and flat. And towards the end, everything is wrapped up in the most shiny of red bows.
It was difficult to finish and frustrating to read because it was boring with few exceptions. It wasn't badly written, but too long and without enough happening to make it compelling.
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