Hate Fick (The Hate Fick Saga Book 1)

And she couldn't stay at her old college for her Masters Degree. She end up in Colorado and falls for Reed one of the Assistant Coaches.

Can there be love. Not a football fan - still loved this book! Fick's writing is excellent! The characters and setting came t Not a football fan - still loved this book! The characters and setting came to life for me and I was drawn into the story from page one. This was definitely a quick read for me. Once I started it, I didn't want to put it down and also stayed up late finishing it.

Her details and descriptions flowed perfectly throughout the story and even a football idiot such as myself very rarely became lost. I actually enjoyed the extra details she supplied regarding the sport, because even when I didn't fully understand, I could still picture it easily.

The protagonists are well rounded and I really liked both of them. They were incredibly realistic and seemed like people I would actually know and be friends with. Cassie Parker, is an academic advisor for the students on the football team. She despises the sport in general, but also has little respect for the teammates, due to a poor experience with football players in the past.

I enjoyed watching her grow closer to them and actually become great friends with a few of them. Once she looked beyond the uniform to the people behind them, she found some wonderful friends. Cassie also has a strong faith in God, though it has been rocked by past events and she questions His will in her life. I appreciated her faith, but also the realism we see in her. I loved him too.

He is honorable and truly cares about each of the students he comes in contact with. I appreciated his desire to be a man worth emulating and he reaches toward God for guidance in that area. He is also less than perfect, and as his relationship with Cassie progresses, we see some mental struggles on his behalf.

At first, I questioned Ms. Instead of causing me to lose respect for him, I found I loved him even more because of his desire to honor God and Cassie. Fick touches on a few difficult topics, such as forgiveness, trusting God, physical assault, and dealing with temptation as mentioned above. All things that were woven carefully throughout the story and handled well. I just would have appreciated more page time for them. In keeping with the book length, I felt they were a bit glossed over, at times.

But, that being said and again noting the length of the story, I believe Ms. Fick did an admirable job of including such difficult topics. I must applaud her for that. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick read that touches the heart and may leave you thinking! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way.

All opinions expressed are my own. I was a good quarter of the way into this book before I realized that I had read so much of it so quickly! Yes, this is a book that will pull you in from the very first page. And in no time, you will lose yourself in the story and forget whatever else you had on your to do list! These are the best kinds of stories to read.

Topics Mentioning This Author

Her attention to detail is phenomenal and she builds a steady plot line pa I was a good quarter of the way into this book before I realized that I had read so much of it so quickly! Her attention to detail is phenomenal and she builds a steady plot line page by page. We sense that Cassie has had a rough journey getting here and we are immediately pulled in to the story to care about her…and to find out what happened on her journey that made things so difficult. We then meet Reed, an assistant coach for the team, who is trying to prove himself to the head coach.

Reed struggles with finding the right balance of discipline and motivation for his players and there are so many wonderful examples of authentic leadership with this character throughout the book: Not only do they have official guidelines to stay within, but we also learn of their strong moral values regarding intimacy in relationships. Again, both Cassie and Reed demonstrate staying mentally strong when physical and emotional desire is equally as strong. Will Cassie and Reed get caught? Will they ever feel safe in expressing themselves to each other without compromising their jobs?

Will they each find fulfillment on their own without losing themselves in their jobs? So many questions keep the reader flipping the pages until the very end! I just absolutely loved this book! My love of it was evident within the first few pages, when I found I had been glued to it for some time. I could relate to everything in it—I was a graduate assistant and fondly remember those days of working long hours only to have to study in the remaining hours left in the day.

I remember the energy of a university and how exciting it felt to be on a blank canvas where you could pain the next chapter of your life. Reading this book took me inside the game of college football and I learned things I had actually always wondered about! This book is a must read! I cannot wait for the next book by Candee Fick!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions above are my own. Catch of a Lifetime Author: Maybe I liked it because it had college football as one of the subjects, and the story wrapped around the game or could it be I was pulled in by the characters and somehow knowing that for one of them a harsh experience was coming? Perhaps it was just about a woman trying to move forward after a devasting loss, but finding herself still trapped in her heart. No matter what it was that Title: No matter what it was that drew me to the book, I must say the novel is simply thrilling!

The two main characters are an offensive coach named Reed and Cassie who is a grad-assistant. The dedication it takes to be a player, coach, assistant or trainer requires lots of time and a love for the sport.

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There is a budding romance between Reed and Cassie that is very realistically portrayed with sexual temptation, but making it about honoring the boundaries God created. They want what is best for the team to succeed and some of them are Christians. Both Cassie and Reed work hard to stay professional when they are on campus, following the rules and boundaries the athletic director has set forth. Though fictional, these characters I think will speak to young people perhaps helping them to seek accountability partners to help them not cross the line or dishonor God.

I was captured from the start of the story, and the ending was very touching and well written. I hope you read it so you will understand just how special and heartwarmingly written as well as entertaining is Catch of a Lifetime. Please consider gifting this book to youths or college age people this holiday season. I think a story like this will help many to stay close to God and decide before leaving for college how they will handle a relationship in a God honoring way!

Great work by author Candee Fick. I hope to see another story from her in the near future! Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am a huge football fan. I love the sport and the way the team comes together working for a common goal. As I began to read this book I couldn't put it down. The author does an outstanding job of making you feel like you are watching behind the scenes of a college football team.

The details of playing the game are very realistic and makes you feel as if you are in the stands watching as you cheer for your team. I enjoyed getting to know Cassie as she joins a football team as the athletic academ I am a huge football fan. I enjoyed getting to know Cassie as she joins a football team as the athletic academic advisor and assists the training staff. There is something from her past that could cause her not to be an objective person when it comes to the players. Will her past catch up with her? Can she put her anger and unforgiveness aside and be a team player?

Reed is the coach for the receivers of the team and a very likeable person. His passion for the game and his players is a true example of a great coach. He genuinely cares for his team and wants the best for them. He has always thought of himself a disappointment to his dad.

Will be be able to prove to his parents that his coaching job is important? Reed wants to please his parents , but it seems like they can't accept his career choice. There is a budding romance between Cassie and Reed that will soon cause trouble for them. Will one of them have to resign in order to keep seeing each other? Is it possible to keep their relationship a secret? I enjoyed reading how these two characters tried to fight their feelings and stay true to their faith.

It is an enjoyable read with a surprising twist in the book that could change the lives of many. The author gives us a glance into lives that struggle with acceptance, unforgiveness and pride. This may be the author's debut novel, but with writing so explosive and heartpounding I'm sure there will be more books to enjoy from her. I received a copy of this book from The BookClub Network for an honest review.

If you enjoy football and romance, I think you will enjoy this book. Personally, I know just about zilch about football, so keeping up with the football jargon, plays, etc was a bit challenging for me. Nonetheless, it did not take away from enjoying the book. Once I got past the first few chapters, I got into the story and enjoyed seeing how it played out. Cassie has just recently changed schools due to tragic circumstances surrounding her previous school.

She also hates football, well, maybe not If you enjoy football and romance, I think you will enjoy this book. She also hates football, well, maybe not the sport exactly, but certainly those egotistical guys playing on the field, who think they are "all that". But God has plans for Cassie, and they can only be fulfilled if she is willing to surrender her will to His, as well as, take a few chances. And that is something Cassie struggles with. First day on the job, Cassie meets Reed, rookie coach, struggling to find his worth and value apart from what his family thinks of his career choice.

A man with a deep relationship with God and great values, but also a man whose life is surrounded by football, and football players. Even after Cassie gets to know him, can she let her fears go? This book is about love, trust, forgiveness, and so much more. I really enjoyed how Candee weaves together the story along with the faith of those involved. Pretty much it is a predictable read, just a steady paced enjoyable book. There is a bit of a twist towards the end, that adds a bit of excitement and it contains a meaningful ending.

This is the first book I have read by Candee and aside from my cluelessness about football, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Catch of a Lifetime was the most romantic story of football I have ever read! Aside from the obvious irony, this story narrates a true to life situation in which two people help each other work through the mental and emoti Catch of a Lifetime was the most romantic story of football I have ever read! Aside from the obvious irony, this story narrates a true to life situation in which two people help each other work through the mental and emotional barriers preventing them from enjoying their careers.

The in depth look into the lives of the players they focus on is another added element that will have you rooting for the Cougars football team both on and off the field. Set in the beauty of Fort Collins, Colorado, Reed and Cassie fall in love in what can only be described as a God-orchestrated set of circumstances. Both grow in their relationship with God as they seek to discover their own romantic feelings for one another.

The need to keep their love for one another a secret, hidden behind the pretense of a professional relationship, only seems to make them love one another even more. It is a story that will live in your heart long after the final page has been turned. I received this book from The Book Club Network bookfun. Running plays and passes, academic eligibility and sidelining injuries. Can they overcome the challenges they face? Catch of a Lifetime draws readers not only onto the field, but into the lives of college players and their coaches. The hours of practice, study, and review may pay off, or they may all come to a devastating e Running plays and passes, academic eligibility and sidelining injuries.

The hours of practice, study, and review may pay off, or they may all come to a devastating end. Knowing the risk, the players and coaches must give it their all. The action continues to move throughout the story as comfortable routines are interrupted by the victory or defeat in each game. The cast is highlighted by distinctive personalities and likable characters.

The story is clean, but it does deal honestly with realistic situations. I would not suggest my daughter read it until she is a bit older. This review was first published on my blog -- sarahruut. I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts expressed here are entirely my own. Football is not something I'm drawn to, and if I were to judge a book by the cover, I'd likely choose not to read this book.

It would be a mistake. Cassie and Reed are realistic characters with struggles most of us can identify with. Cassie has been badly hurt by a football star, and it is her worse nightmare when she's assigned a job working with them in her work-study assignment. Reed struggles with trying to be good enough to catch his parent's attention. He knows what he wants, but rules see Football is not something I'm drawn to, and if I were to judge a book by the cover, I'd likely choose not to read this book. He knows what he wants, but rules seem to work against him.

I loved the main characters, but some of the secondary characters won my hearts just as much. I wanted more about them. Derek vaguely reminded me of someone I know--thankfully not to the same extent Candee Fick delivers an impeccable debut in this remarkable tale, filled with vivid storytelling. The play is still alive, The Coach is on the sidelines, and His playbook is always available.

This story is sure to score a touchdown with football fans and romance readers alike. What a wonderful story. I loved the depth of the characters, I loved the interweaving of faith and morals in the book but also loved that the author didn't shy away from "bad things" happening to good people. It DOES happen and how we handle life says a lot about our character.

Focus On Love

The main female character Cassie, a gymnast, Olympic alternate, has suffered The LAST place on earth she wants to be. The main male character Reed is following his dreams. MUCH to the chagrin of his parents. Can Reed find love? Can he find acceptance from his parents? Cassie and Reed navigate the waters of a football team plagued with attitudes, good, bad, ugly, and somehow find their way back to the faith they both know they need. But can this faith hold them together in their strongest test? Read the book and find out! I am giving an honest review of the book as I see it.

I was not given the book in exchange for a good review, only an honest review. Looking for a fresh start, she has just moved to Colorado as a grad student in the Health and Exercise program, but things have started badly for her. She rises, however, to the challenges before her: Reed Worthington is a first-year football coach, working hard to prove himself in front of the players, coaching staff, and his father. Cassie and Reed soon discover that they have a shared faith and realize that there is an attraction between them.

But university football is demanding. Can they overcome the many obstacles to their relationship? This was a fun, quick read. I loved the football setting, and it was great to watch the characters grow in faith and integrity. I recommend this book, whether or not you are a football fan. I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. I loved this story! From page one, I was drawn in and didn't want the story to end. Cassie Parker and Reed Worthington have a chemistry that jumps off the page.

Advising football players, football games, and a romance that can't be, makes for a page turning story! The football aspect is so seamlessly woven in, it doesn't take away from the story. Cassie is a graduate student and the athletic academic advisor as she works on her degree. She also helps the training staff during practices and games I loved this story! But Jesus holds us close and whispers love over us.

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Another sweet romance from Candee Fick! The warm characters move right into your heart, and the dinner theater atmosphere with its delightful nod to C. In fact, the photography and theater elements in Focus on Love give readers a fascinating picture into each of these creative worlds. Ryan and Liz are very relatable characters, and their attraction is palpable. Some great kisses too! Overall this is a heartwarming story of love and grace in various forms, and a great choice any time of the year!

Jan 30, Suzie Waltner rated it it was amazing. This book does exactly what the title suggests. It focuses on love. With the help of a new acquaintance, Liz Foster rediscovers her love for photography while also enjoying her life in the theater. As Ryan Callahan builds her confidence behind a camera, she helps him build a better business. I was a bit disappointed when I reached the end of this book.

Liz and Ryan are people I could have hung out with for another hundred pages. But I will take comfort in the hop of another excellent read from Candee Fick in the future. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Jan 24, Raidersgirl rated it it was amazing.

Was given this book by the publisher for a review, but for no payment.

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These are my true feelings. I loved Liz's story almost more than Dani's I hope Mrs Fick writes more in this series of characters I didn't want to put this book down! If you love christian romance you will love Candee Fick Mar 09, Suze Lavender rated it it was amazing. Elizabeth's family has hurt her feelings and even though Elizabeth would love to work for the family business, she isn't welcome to contribute. She's a talented photographer, but because that's linked to her parents she's made a career of her second passion, playing in musicals. She has a theater job that gives her a place to live and pays the bills, but Elizabeth isn't sure if it will bring future security.

If they would let her go, she would have to return to her parents and the man who betray Elizabeth's family has hurt her feelings and even though Elizabeth would love to work for the family business, she isn't welcome to contribute. If they would let her go, she would have to return to her parents and the man who betrayed her. Elizabeth values her freedom and wants her family to accept her the way she is, but they want to force her to quit chasing her dreams and they aren't interested in her abilities.

This makes Elizabeth determined to make it on her own. Is a steady theater job what she needs or is there something else that will make her heart beat faster? Ryan is a famous photographer. He loves his job, but family comes first, which is why he's currently working close to home while taking care of his sister's kids. Elizabeth's main focus is the stage, but when she meets Ryan her old passion for photography returns. He helps her to get her first paid assignment and this makes Elizabeth think about her future, what does she want and how should she achieve this?

Ryan and Elizabeth have a lot in common and they instantly form a close bond, but eventually Ryan will go back to his regular photography work that will take him all over the world, which means he will leave and that's exactly what Elizabeth is afraid of. Will they be able to focus on what really matters in life and give love a chance?

Focus on Love is a wonderful romantic story. Elizabeth is a sweet and generous person. She's always willing to help others and she's incredibly kind. Her parents don't appreciate her and my heart ached for her, because of all the hurt they keep causing. Ryan shows her what it's like to have a loving family, to make your dreams come true, while still staying true to your beliefs and values. That's a powerful message and because of his trust in her Elizabeth grows as a person.

Ryan listens to her, he takes her seriously and he's interested in her ideas. Through Elizabeth's creativity he finds new ways to thrive, which makes them a great match. I loved the way they interact and couldn't wait to find out if they'd find their happily ever after together. Candee Fick has a great warm writing style.

Focus on love is fast-paced and filled with interesting twists and turns. I love how Elizabeth slowly starts to believe in herself and her talents. There's so much she can do and she has a practical solution for every problem. I liked that attitude a lot and this made the story even more fascinating for me. I really enjoyed reading about the connection between Elizabeth and Ryan. Their story is deep, romantic and spiritual. I love it when main characters have such a special bond.

Focus on Love is a fabulous charming story. Feb 05, Dawn Pearson rated it it was amazing. Focus on Love picks up with a slight overlap to the ending of Dance Over Me. The reader is reintroduced to Dani and the other girls from the dinner theater while focusing on Liz. Liz has spent the last few years dedicated to musical theater and dance while maintaining her love for all things photography as only a hobby. She knows she's in a precarious position financially, but dreads the thought of being forced to go back home to the restrictive rules and expectations of her father.

When a handsome photographer shows up at the theater one day pitching a deal, she realizes that her interest in photography is just as strong as ever. Ryan has temporarily set aside his lucrative photography career to step in for his sister and her family while is brother in law is away in Afghanistan on a mission. In the meantime, he needs to fill in the financial gaps by doing what he can with his camera around town.

When he approaches the local theater with an idea, he never expects to meet competition amongst the dancers. At first, this seems just like any other romance on the market. But, as the characters and plot develop, the reader quickly realizes that this is a story that has enough depth that it would be a good fit for a Christian reading club. Character wise, even though the perspective is only from Liz, I felt like I knew and understood Ryan.

And, as the plot develops, the reader is taken on a spiritual journey along with Liz who realizes that her upbringing does not match what she's learning from other Christians and her personal Bible reading. It's a tender journey of discovery, but not without its challenges both from her past as well as personal struggles and tragedies she observes in others. I'd love to give more details, but I don't want to ruin the suspense and delight of reading it for the first time.

Themes include - what is a true Christian vs following legalistic rules, healthy family relationships vs dysfunctional ones, what defines love, and maintaining a healthy dating relationship. This is about as wholesome as it gets and is appropriate for all ages. Romance - includes kissing Language - clean My rating - 5 stars, I loved it.

Reading this book was like catching up with old friends and making new ones. Catching up with the gang at the Wardrobe Dinner Theater was a lot of fun and so was meeting Ryan, Cheryl, and the kids. This book was a quick and easy read for me. It was easy to like the characters in this book.

Except for Liz's dad. I didn't care for him at all. As an avid reader, I get tired of two characters meeting and instantly disliking each other. I am so glad that the author has Liz and Ryan liking each other f Reading this book was like catching up with old friends and making new ones. I am so glad that the author has Liz and Ryan liking each other from the beginning and the friendship that forms between the two is very genuine and realistic.

This made their stories enjoyable and easy to keep an interest in. I really enjoyed all the photography detail that was added to the story. This made the story even more authentic and as someone who likes photography, it was an added bonus. It made me want to pick up a camera and start clicking away. I like Candee Fick's writing style. She has a way of telling a story with a message that doesn't seem overly preachy or overdone. She works the message into the story in a way that fits in naturally.

I also like the way that she describes scenes.

C.M. Fick (Author of Mark of Fate)

She creates images that make me feel as if I am there in the story. One tiny thing I was a bit disappointed in was the story just seemed to end abruptly. Yes, there is an ending and it's good but I just wasn't ready to say goodbye to these characters and wasn't prepared that the story was about to end.

I would have liked a bit more time with these characters and a bit more resolution to some aspects of the story. This book is good for teenage readers and up. While the book could be classified as young adult there is definitely enough maturity to the storyline for older readers. While this book isn't listed as part of a series, Dance Over Me introduces readers to the theater group and the characters.

It isn't necessary to read it before Focus On Love but I definitely recommend both. I'm also anxiously awaiting the next book about Gloria, another dancer at the theater. I received a free copy of this book from the author and wasn't required to write a review. All opinions are mine. Feb 07, Becky Claxon rated it it was amazing. This book is a wonderful Christian book that made me think a lot about the scripture and the Lord. She finishes her college degree, leaves b This book is a wonderful Christian book that made me think a lot about the scripture and the Lord.

Catch of a Lifetime

She finishes her college degree, leaves behind her photography, and dances which her grandmother had taught her. She becomes close with her roommate who follows the Lord. She has conversations with Liz about her faith which gets Liz thinking more about her relationship with the Lord. She meets Ryan Callahan when he comes to the theatre with an idea about his photography to help him earn money. The two end up working together. Ryan was such a great example of how a man who follows the Lord should act. He was a international photographer who gave up his jobs for awhile to help his older sister take care of her two children and with the bills while her husband was over In Afghanistan.

He had such a godly influence on Liz which helped her accept how badly her father was treating her. If you like beautiful written Christian stories, then I strongly encourage you to read the book. Feb 11, Perrianne rated it it was amazing. It was hard to read about the utterly complete rejection of her own family. I liked that the love of family and faith comes to focus for her as she s If you enjoyed reading Dance Over Me, join us on a second stop to the Wardrobe Dinner Theatre where we spotlight on Liz.

I liked that the love of family and faith comes to focus for her as she steps in to fill some very large shoes in a family that is not even her own. I was proud of her that she was strong enough to take that leap of faith. I received an advance reader e-copy of the book in exchange for a review of the book. A positive review was not required and my opinion on the book is completely my own.

Feb 03, Diana rated it it was amazing. Sometimes our dreams change midstream, sometimes life takes us one place to get to another. Elizabeth loves dancing and she loves photography. After going off to college, her father expects her to come home and help out in the family business- but only in a secretary role.

Her parents beat her over the head with their strict form of religion and honoring her parents along with their expectation of her marrying a man that she doesn't even like as a person. Between rough roommates and parents dema Sometimes our dreams change midstream, sometimes life takes us one place to get to another.

Between rough roommates and parents demands, life seems to get overwhelming, but God has a plan. Ryan gives up a wonderful career traveling and taking photos to help his sister out while his brother-in-law is deployed. He finds local gigs to help out financially but misses the adventure. But God has plans for him too- one of which is showing Elizabeth the side of God that she hasn't heard about- the love He has for us and the relationship He wants with us.

Read this book to see how God moves in the lives of those He loves and how He works things out for good. I would love to see a sequel to this book to continue the story and maybe see Elizabeth carry that side of God back to her parents. Feb 12, Lee rated it it was amazing. I loved the romance focused on God's love and family. Liz is trying to find her place in life, trying to find her passion, whether it's theater or photography. Since being forced out of the family photography business, she's been trying out the theater, but something is missing.

Then along comes Ryan a freelance photographer who's home helping his sister and her family as her husband is deployed. When Ryan looks for extra studio work at the theater, he meets Liz, and they hit it Beautiful story! When Ryan looks for extra studio work at the theater, he meets Liz, and they hit it off. Soon they are working together doing photo shoots. And they quickly fall in love.

It's a sweet story, with a great look at families and God's love in the midst. I recommend this book, Focus On Love. Feb 19, Beth Erin rated it really liked it. Full review on Faithfully Bookish Liz Foster is a savvy lady and her confidence has obviously grown in the few years she has been working onstage.

I admire her bravery, independence, and willingness to grow, mature, and adapt. Ryan Callahan thrives within his nomadic career as a professional photographer yet he willingly puts his dreams on hold when his family needs him to stand in the gap. This author has been recommended to me by a couple of my dearest bookish friends so I had high expectations Full review on Faithfully Bookish Liz Foster is a savvy lady and her confidence has obviously grown in the few years she has been working onstage.

I'm so happy with this experience and I look forward to reading the author's backlist and future works. The opinions expressed are my own. Feb 10, Sherri rated it really liked it. I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. This review is my own opinion. Jan 24, Julie Barrett rated it it was amazing. Free egift at the beginning. This story starts out with Liz and she's opening gifts. The family is into the phtoography business and she's a great addition. Jerry had been stealing her ideas for the company and coming off as they were his Her grandfather had wanted her but things didn't work out She prays often to God and knows she needs to go after new dreams: She gets a call asking when she returns home, for good Her father cuts her off from the family til she apologizes and comes home to work as a secretary for the photography business.

Not familiar with the areas so it's fascinating to me to learn about them and the very detailed descriptions make me want to go, along with the various acitivities available, outside. Ryan and his family, priceless! Love hearing of the time they spend with his family, fills the void she has in her life. Love the church setting and how welcome it is with what others are wearing. Love the synch they have with photography, I share the same with my husband. Hate how the parents treat her but love her new life. Like hearing of the military interjections and how God helps them get through all the turmoil.

More misunderstandings lead them apart Can't wait to read more from this author. Lots of scriptures quotes. Excerpt from the next book is included. Free from the author and this is my honest review.