Can you fall in love when you’ve never loved yourself?

Universally misjudged, Blake Kozlow doesn’t let society get under his skin. After all, those misunderstandings have never affected his career. As a center for the Portland Storm, he’s lived his life as a Free Agent—particularly with women. But when he meets a gorgeous, curvy special education teacher, Blake realizes he’s finally met the one person who truly understands him.

Beatriz Castillo knows exactly what she wants—to teach her students that nothing can hold them back. A few years ago, her health was spiraling out of control, but Bea took her life back. Now, she uses her vivacious personality to prove to everyone, especially her students, that anything is possible.

Perpetually impulsive and spontaneous, Blake turns on the charm. But Bea’s unprepared to be on the receiving end of such brazen attention. As they grow closer and their attraction intensifies, their inner demons threaten everything. They’ve both always lived on the fringes of life. But moving forward will require Bea and Blake to step into the spotlight—together.

Blake "Koz" Kozlow has always been seen as the cocky, obnoxious, unfiltered, impulsive, bad boy. Trouble seems to follow him and he often puts his foot in his mouth. So most people think he is rude, offensive, annoying, and does not care. 

Beatriz Castillo is a special education teacher who is good friends with Dani Weber Williams, his team mate's wife. Bea underwent a personal transformation, but still has body issues and insecurities. She has no experience with men or relationships. She is organized, tough, feisty, and sweet, but is also vulnerable, unsure, and fearful of letting men get too close.

Koz already managed to offend her in the past. Now a year later, he has offended a lot of people and caused a PR nightmare for the team that leads to some volunteering. Bea really does not want to have to spend time with him, but she cannot deprive her students. Bea is certainly not ready for Koz to try to charm her and pursue her. But as they spend more time together, their attraction grows.

Oh my...Koz...who knew?! As we get into his head, it is like uncovering all the secrets to this misunderstood man. He's got issues and he knows it. He does not want to be the rude jerk he appears to be. His mouth sometimes works faster than his brain and by the time he catches up, he has already said something he cannot take back. He is  socially awkward and has some personal struggles that affect  his life. 

Bea is the perfect person to ask for help since she is a patient and kind teacher. And he really sees Bea better than she sees herself. She has her own issues getting out of her head that impact her body image and self worth. They both have so much to give, such big hearts, and can help and challenge each other. And they can make each other laugh.

But it is hard to love someone until you love yourself and both of them struggle with self worth, self love, insecurities, and have not had much unconditional  acceptance and love in their lives. But it also takes trust, patience, understanding, and tolerance of mistakes. My heart literally broke for Blake in his moments of vulnerability. And even though Bea's self deprecating thoughts got a bit repetitive, they were understandable and realistic.

I was not expecting to feel so much with Koz's book. And it had me near tears and totally emotionally invested. I did not expect to completely fall in love with him and see so many different aspects of his personality. I enjoy it when an author surprises me and makes me adore a character I was not sure I could based on previous books. They were not a typical hero and heroine due to their issues and experiences. I loved getting both points of view especially Blake's unfiltered one and they were easy to relate to. I liked how they complimented each other, but also challenged the other. And they did have some situations in their lives that they have to deal with that could bring them closer together or push them further apart.

This installment was funny, sweet, emotional, and dealt with some current and relevant topics. This was one of my favorite Portland Storm stories and couples. And it is always fun to get to spend some time with the team members and WAGS as well.

I was gifted a copy by the author. 

Portland Storm Series 

(on author's website)


Also available in three box sets The First Period, The Second Period, and The Third Period and the next one Overtime is coming in 2018