Out of Bounds

Out of Bounds is a short novella, where the characters are perfect, and there's no real conflict or climax.
Dani is a lawyer working for a pro football team. Drew is a quarterback with no vices and he sleeps eight hours every night. At the same time, Dani's younger sister and Drew's best friend fall for each other after meeting at the movie theatre.
The writing is okay, but the story is a bit bland.

Dani and Drew meet at the beach while surfing and are immediately attracted. When they find out Drew is the new quarterback for the Los Angeles Knights, where Dani is a lawyer, they decide to not get involved. They want to avoid scrutiny. But the heart wants what the heart wants.

This is a short book with a rather simple storyline. I liked the characters and there was some steam, as expected from Lauren Blakely.

Lauren. Freaking. Blakely.

Even in a novella, my mind is blown! I loved the chemistry between Drew and Dani! Even though novellas don't allow for an extensive amount of emotional or character depth, Lauren managed to draw the readers in and keep us captivated! Her writing never disappoints❤❤

Sweet, fun romance that only Lauren Blakely can write. Drew and Dani were so much fun to read. LB writes with a sweet heat in this one. This book is a great way to spend an evening. Great standalone book with a sports themed romance.

Love her stuff!! Looking forward to so much more from Lauren Blakely.

Happy Reading ~Sherry

A chance encounter leads to a connection and possibilities. But things can change pretty quickly.

Dani Paige and Drew Erickson find themselves working for the same team. She is their lawyer and he is their new quarterback who is supposed to help turn the team around. They've got hot chemistry and a fun, witty rapport. They find each other hard to resist, but think they need to. His team has had enough trouble and scandals. It is hard to tell what kind of press fraternization of a player and employee would cause. It definitely appears to be a conflict of interest. He really needs to focus on his game and has a lot to prove to his new team.

But is it more distracting to be with her or to be thinking about her and missing her?

Drew is the good guy...the clean cut, easy-going, positive player with a fun, sarcastic sense of humor. He wants his chance to succeed and make a difference. But he is also sexy and charismatic. Dani is smart, sassy, and just as sarcastic and funny as he is. They are so good together and have such strong reactions. But they have reasons to be concerned about image and their jobs. They know they need to try to resist, but it is hard to keep their hands and other parts to themselves. I really loved this couple together and was cheering for them the whole time.

I liked the side characters of her sister, Ally, his friend, Jason, and team mate Elkins. This was told in dual points of view. I love how Lauren can write guys who are caring and lovable, but can talk dirty and ooze sex appeal. And her heroines are smart and strong, and the guys like them that way.

This is a sweet, humorous, hot, swoony novella based around professional football. Even though it was more novella length it had enough development to feel like a full story and the characters came to life. There was just enough drama and obstacles to make it interesting, but not too angsty. Their flirty rapport and banter made me smile and it was easy to get immersed in their story. They were cute, a little goofy, and a whole lot of fun. And the forbidden aspect along with pro-football just make it that more appealing. I have a certain weakness for football players...And Drew totally won my heart.

This is my first Lauren Blakely book, which was recommended by a friend. It's well written and actually quite good. My only complaint is I wanted more! It was a really quick read and was kind of short at only 150 pages.

I'm sure I'll pick up more of her work because I did really like it though.

A hot shot quarterback falls for a young woman while surfing, only she doesn't want him to know she's an attorney for the football league. The attraction grows as they are continuously thrown together, can love overcome the fear of losing their jobs. A hot romance.

A quick and perfect read. From their very first interaction Dani and Drew's chemistry is exploding off the page. Their banter is witty, charming, sarcastic and adorable. Them being together just makes me smile and I instantly fell for them. I loved their story.

This was a fantastic lunch time read. Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. Drew is down to earth and a good head on his shoulder and excited about the opportunities that are opening up to him. Dani is out to do her job and that is what she is determined to do. When her and Drew cross paths on the beach on day, everything changes and nothing will ever be the same. Unless Dani can get her boss to bless this relationship, but that doesn't happen exactly as she plans. These two are destined to be together, however they may have to remain friends.

Lauren has a way to get you involved in her books. Every book brings the characters to life and gives them a voice. Drew is the perfect guy that anyone would want to meet and Dani was lucky to meeting him. I'm so glad I got to read this book. I couldn't put it down and didn't want it to end. Lindsey, Reviewer for Mommy's Naughty Playground

I enjoyed reading this short story. Lauren Blakely does some of the best male POVs I've ever read and her character interactions are always so smooth.

I loved Drew and Dani! drew is an up and coming quarterback that gets the opportunity to play for the big leagues. Dani is an attorney for an LA football team. The two meet when Dani helps Drew recuperate from an injury while surfing. There's immediate attraction but once they find out they work for the same football team they decided to not go forward with their relationship, which is easier said then done. Such a good read, sweet and sexy!

I felt that the story was quick and the characters weren't really developed. I don't want to give to much of the story away since I am not sure who is reading this. However, I expected more drama or even more development in the relationship. It all just seemed too perfect and the epilogue, although great, seemed just like a random add on. I kind of would of liked to read more about the team and how they got to the Super Bowl or if they only had that one loss. I like reading the struggle before the happy ending.

Dani meets Drew while surfing at Venice Beach, and while he has no idea that she is the in-house counsel for the rival LA area-based NFL team, she recognizes him as the other team's starting QB. They have instant chemistry, and she thinks about seeing where things will lead, but then he is traded to her team, and they both feel they have to avoid the scandal that may accompany any entanglements. Until they don't. It's all fun, with witty, sexy dialog and adorable characters.

Out of Bounds is a short novella, where the characters are perfect, and there's no real conflict or climax.
Dani is a lawyer working for a pro football team. Drew is a quarterback with no vices and he sleeps eight hours every night. At the same time, Dani's younger sister and Drew's best friend fall for each other after meeting at the movie theatre.
The writing is okay, but the story is a bit bland.

Lauren Blakely doesn't believe in boundaries ~ thank heavens! Out of Bounds is another delightful book by an author who doesn't scrimp on humor, passion and fun-loving characters.

While I prefer novels to novellas, this shorter story provides the perfect blend of characteristics that add substance we crave. Drew and Dani are amazing individually and together and by the end of the book, we are left with the beauty of love and completion.

From one of your many fans, kudos for another winner!

I couldn't connect with either of the main characters and the beginning just dragged on and on. After reading other books by this author, I expected more. I haven't looked, but the guessing this is one of her first books. She has progressed as an author and I would suggest reading some of her newer works rather than this one. It's not up to her standard, in my opinion.

This book was just perfect, easygoing, interesting story line, passionate, no too complicated just a perfect love story with normalcy complications but things easy to resolve. For a long time I didn't know I was craving a simple love story read and this book was just what I really was missing. Drew a normal guy easy going and Dani determined, smart and sassy. The perfect couple! Thank you Lauren Blakely you exactly what to write❤️!

Although this was not my favorite by this author, this was still a fun and sexy addition to her long list of books. The story starts out cute and you quickly fall in love with these two characters who are committed to their jobs but obviously to their growing attraction and relationship as well. Lauren has such a wonderful way of writing such witty and entertaining characters. I really enjoyed this one!

Uncomplicated and delightfully fluffy. Both of the main characters are good people, which seems rare these days in romance stories. Out of Bounds was a quick read so if you need a palate cleanser to follow a story that left you weepy or questioning humanity, this might hit the spot for you.

Plus, gorgeous quarterback.

Lauren Blakely's Out of Bounds is a sweet, contemporary romance novel. Drew and Dani meet under unusual circumstances--surfing. Drew doesn't want to be recognized and Dani plays along. Unfortunately, their respective careers seem to keep them apart. I like all of Lauren Blakely's novels and this one is no exception. I highly recommend Out of Bounds.

Sweet, fun romance that only Lauren Blakely can write. Drew and Dani were so much fun to read. LB writes with a sweet heat in this one. This book is a great way to spend an evening. Great standalone book with a sports themed romance.

Love her stuff!! Looking forward to so much more from Lauren Blakely.

Happy Reading ~Sherry

I love that Lauren Blakely wrote a sports romance. Out of Bounds is a quick, sweet, and sexy read that I'd be happy to read again and again. Drew and Dani are perfect! They have AMAZING chemistry. I absolutely adore their word game and their quick flirty banter.*sigh They so cute together.

Lauren Blakely knows romance and has been a favourite of mine for sometime. So while I don't care for sports romance and admittedly don't understand the particulars of American Football - this book is a smouldering, fabulous addition to her repertoire.
This was a hell of a lot sexy, hot, and I dare to say a little bit dirty too...
A little different to her other amazing books such as Big Rock, The Sexy One or my favourite Well Hung... this was darker, stronger with two leading characters who were extremely driven, focused yet sexy.
I loved how they met... Dani's description... her saving him from his surf board... his flirtatious style...a chance meeting with instant attraction, and undeniable chemistry...it all lines up to be a hot and sexy read.
Dani is a wonderful leading lady she is confident, smart and sexy. She works as a lawyer for the Knights. She loves her job, football, and she adores her sister. I was really touched by that, her love for her sister gave her character a lot of substance.
Drew wants Dani from the moment he saw her at the beach, but his career as a NFL quarterback is in full swing and he can't stuff that up. Even though they shouldn't mess around, it seems they both can't help it. After all, it's not easy to follow the rules, and forget about what the body craves and what the heart longs for... its not long before Drew realises he wants a relationship with Dani and reality takes over the passion.
Lauren Blakely is the best. "Out of Bounds" proves that humour, intense chemistry, and passion make for an easy, fun, sexy read.
Out of Bounds is a 5 Game-Changing Stars!

What originally drew me to author Lauren Blakely was her brand of heated suspense that could have readers on the edge of their seats and stir up some heartwarming emotions, with stunning reveals and emotional connections. I always left satisfied and anticipating her next book release. Recently, I've noticed a more playful side to her presentation. From opposites attract, to old friends discovering something new and the light banter delivered in he said, she said manner. I'm lovin' it. Change is a part of life and this change spices up an already seasoned author. Out of Bounds takes the words we as observers long to say and puts them out there from both sexes point of view. As a writer you never stop growing and Ms. Blakely continues to create memorable characters that are easy to love.

I love Lauren’s books!

Obviously, I can’t just say that and that be the end of the review. So here we go.. 

This was a naughty and sweet story of a football player and a lawyer. They have an attraction for each other, in which they can’t deny. But… is it ok? will this effect either of their careers. 

I felt, that this was very different from the other books I’ve read of hers. But it still had that writing style that gets me all the time. I’ am a reviewer, so I read a lot. It’s what relaxes me. And if you love to read, you know that you want to enjoy what you’re reading. Really immerse yourself into the characters reality. 

I loved Drew and Dani. Drew really is this wholesome good guy, no super alpha. He isn’t overbearing or needy. Dani is a strong character all on her own. You can really feel, what these characters are feeling. I loved their banter. 

And… you can’t forget the steamy naughty sexy parts of this story. They have such a passion for each other, that it just jumps off the pages. 

Only complaint.. I felt it was too short. I wanted more of Dani and Drew. Overall, I give Out of Bounds, Five Boundless Stars...Lissa

Fun and flirty interactions blend beautifully with action on the field in this football-themed romance told in a dual POV. From their playful first meeting a female lawyer finds herself drawn to the younger football player despite their business connection keeping them apart. Interludes of unrelenting sexual tension soon combine with forbidden erotic encounters to keep readers cheering them on towards HEA in a romance that had me turning the pages furiously.

Dani's always loved football, it's a bond between her father and her that has her wanting to succeed and not jeopardize it for a sweet and sexy football player. Though she knows she's playing with fire she can't help being drawn to Drew and the joy he brings to her life, but when superstition overrides the truth she'll have to lob a Hail Mary of her own to keep her man. Dani's an immensely likable heroine who's smart, methodical, strong-willed, and loyal to family. She's devoted to her job but knows she needs more which has her putting her career on the line in the ultimate proof of her burgeoning feelings for Drew. Though theirs is a whirlwind relationship it's clear how good they are together as each encounter crackles with eroticism and humor. Dani's the kind of woman you admire as she went after what she wanted after raising all the pros and cons and I'm completely jealous of her capturing such a delicious hero.

Drew always knew he could be a star on the football field, as long as he kept his eyes on the prize. The moment he meets Dani though he finds himself obsessed with her and wanting more than fleeting touches and longing glances. Soon flirty texts and steamy midnight phone calls aren't enough as Drew longs to tell the world she's his. When self-doubts and silly superstitions rear their ugly head though Drew will have to make the biggest play of his life to keep her. Drew's the good guy in the world of football, living a life of good deeds and clean actions. He's just what his new team needs after numerous embarrassing player infractions and he has no intention of adding to the infamy. His connection to Dani's clear though from their playful and witty banter early on to increasingly erotic words and deeds that had me rooting for them every step of the way despite how others might perceive their connection. Drew's a delightful hero, sexy and snarky, with charm and sensuality oozing from every pore. He could've been arrogant with all of his talents but he endeared himself to me despite his one moment of stupidity.

This was a quick read teeming with sexual tension and very few complications to keep readers from its immensely satisfying conclusion. The dual POVs lets readers get to know these characters on a more personal level than the short word count would normally allow which made them more relatable and had me more invested in their HEA. They're a sizzling couple with interactions off the field that had me blushing while only a bit of time is spent on the game of football, though that time is well-depicted. Along with this strong lead couple comes an equally appealing cast of secondary characters to add to the story's realism. From the burgeoning relationship between Dani's sister Ally and Drew's friend Jason to talented and honorable teammate Elkins, these characters add to my enjoyment of this story and had a hand in getting Dani and Drew together. From start to finish this was a straightforward and carefree read with very little melodrama that gave me a bit of afternoon delight. It was playful and scorching, all that I expect from Ms. Blakely, and I highly recommend it to those looking for a lighthearted romance with bits of humor!

A Review of Out Of Bounds by Lauren Blakely

A lawyer and a football player - 5+++++ stars

When we first meet Dani, she is doing one of the things that she loves most in the world. Surfing - and ogling a gorgeous man on a board. When she notices another surfer dropping into the same wave, she tries to warn Eye Candy that danger is heading toward him, but he's too far out to hear her. When the other guy loses his footing on the board and ends up hitting Eye Candy in the head, she immediately reverts back to her lifeguard training and heads out to help.

Once they are out of the water and she has checked his injury to make sure he doesn't need medical assistance, they end up sitting on the beach and talking. When she recognizes him as a quarterback, but he doesn't mention it, she figures that he just wants to have some down time to just be a regular person for a while. So, even though she tells him she is a lawyer, she doesn't tell him she works for a football team.

They end up spending several hours together while she keeps an eye on the goose egg on his head and he walks her home. After giving him her phone number, she doesn't hear from him again, until a few weeks later he ends up being traded to the same team she works for. A comedy of errors lead her to thinking he didn't really care to pursue anything with her and he thinks that she blew him off. Because they are part of the same team, Dani decides that Andrew/Drew is off limits, but they just can't seem to stay away from each other.

This is such a sweet storyline, with just enough angst to make it fun, but not so much that it keeps you anxious. Plenty of sexy times to keep you going.

**Honest review voluntarily provided. Complimentary Copy provided by Author.**

This was a fantastic lunch time read. Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. Drew is down to earth and a good head on his shoulder and excited about the opportunities that are opening up to him. Dani is out to do her job and that is what she is determined to do. When her and Drew cross paths on the beach on day, everything changes and nothing will ever be the same. Unless Dani can get her boss to bless this relationship, but that doesn't happen exactly as she plans. These two are destined to be together, however they may have to remain friends.

Lauren has a way to get you involved in her books. Every book brings the characters to life and gives them a voice. Drew is the perfect guy that anyone would want to meet and Dani was lucky to meeting him. I'm so glad I got to read this book. I couldn't put it down and didn't want it to end. Lindsey, Reviewer for Mommy's Naughty Playground

Out of Bounds is a sweet, sexy romance.

Drew meets Dani and the chemistry is instant, palpable. Dani plays the role of surfer angel to his undisclosed quarterback-slash-surfer status. Circumstances prevent them from reconnecting, like they want so badly, for a few days.

Then! Dani discovers her Drew is being traded onto the team for which she is an attorney. Forbidden romance? Just a touch. They keep running into each other and chemistry leads to lust and...some really, really hot foreplay.

Take a chance on the relationship they both want being discovered or not? Good streak, lucky socks, a new romance, and? A loss! Cut and run is what he does. Dodges and runs for the hills. (Drama much? Yeah, that's me). Well, Dani finds her "lady balls" and tells it like it is, stating the facts as any good lawyer and woman falling in love.

Boy, they are combustible when their foreplay can lead to a touchdown! Best touchdown ever (off the field) for this quarterback and his sexy, fiery attorney.

I really enjoyed this lighthearted, sexy romance.

Another terrific read from Lauren Blakely, who does dirty talking, good-guys that make a smart girl swoon so deliciously well. Dani, the pro-football team lawyer meets the hot quarterback, Drew, and the chemistry is undeniable. Neither of them want to stir up bad publicity for the team that has suffered a bad streak of scandals but staying away from each other gets more difficult by the day. You know just what you’re getting when you pick up this book; a quick, light, engaging, enjoyable read that will make you laugh with the witty banter, swoon from the dirty talk and hot sex and root for the happily ever after ending that you know is coming.

Out of Bounds by Lauren Blakely

Sweet, sensual, humorous. All words to describe the latest book by Lauren. She has once again given us a book to wrap up with on a cold night allowing her readers to swoon over Andrew (Drew); the latest hunk to grace the pages. I can’t say I’m a huge fan of sports romance but Lauren proved that they can be just as sexy and any other romance while holding the reader’s attention.
This book focuses on Dani Paige, Lawyer for Los Angeles Knights and Drew Erickson, quarterback for the team. These two have instant chemistry that left this reader in a puddle on the sofa.

The Los Angeles Knights team had a horrific season with players being busted for drugs and another getting a teenaged cheerleader pregnant. The team has had enough of the negative image and now they trade for Drew who is seen as a nice guy who does the right thing. Dani reads and approves the team’s press releases in hopes of building the teams image.

These two characters had me laughing from the very first paragraph and continued throughout the book. I found the book to be a quick easy read. The chapters flowed easily and left this reader with wanting to provide a head slap to Dani and Drew. The thought processes they go through when they are developing their relationship was easy to believe. Does Dani and Drew get their HEA? I’m not going to say.
Whether you are a fan of sports romances or just a fan of Laurens’ you will not be disappointed in this book.

This author really knows how to write SEXY!!

Dani meets Andrew whilst surfing. Andrew doesn’t tell Dani that he’s really Drew Erickson, up-and-coming QB for a local team. Dani doesn’t tell Drew that she’s knows who he really is. She also doesn’t tell him that she’s a lawyer for the opposing local team.

They hang out together for a few hours, share a kiss, and then he leaves with Dani’s number on his phone. But, he never calls her.

When they meet again, Drew has been bought for Dani’s team. The attraction and chemistry is very much alive between them. However, their team has been mired in scandal, and the last thing they want to do is risk another scandal by fraternising.

“The chemistry is sizzling, but we also get each other. We like the same things, we fall into an easy rhythm, we connect.”

Trying to stay in the friend zone makes for a whole lot of sexual tension and heavy flirtation, but they really get to know each other, and connect on a deeper level.

This novel was fun, humorous, and hot! I absolutely adored the banter, dialogue, and dirty talk between Dani and Drew, and enjoyed the side characters, too. Thoroughly recommend if you’re looking for a short, sexy read!

If you like sweet, sexy, sporty books, Out of Bounds by Lauren Blakely is a quick, sweet, sexy book. The quarterback and the lawyer for the football team he just got traded to fall into a sweet HEA. Not too much conflict, just some sweet sexytimez and bump in the road or two. Both characters are good people, and I love that.