Title: Dare to Desire
Author: Carly Phillips
First published March 28, 2014
230 pages, ebook
Rating: 3.96
Overview
Madison Evans, a social worker who knows the harsh realities of life, isn’t impressed by Alex Dare’s charm and wealth. The former football star, now retired due to an injury, is intrigued by a ground-breaking position with a rival team.
But there’s a catch- he’ll be working with Madison, the same woman he couldn’t get out of his head. Alex’s reputation as a playboy precedes him, and for good reason.
Madison is determined not to fall for his easy charm again. However, Alex is determined to prove he’s a changed man and win her over.
As he begins to break through Madison’s defenses, a new opportunity arises, threatening to destroy everything. Can Alex convince Madison to take a risk and dare to love again?
About the Author
Carly Phillips, a bestselling author whose works have been featured in prominent publications like NY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today, is known for her captivating Alpha Heroes. Her stories have won the hearts of many readers, including The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.
Carly is happily married to her college sweetheart and resides in Purchase, NY, with her adorable dogs that often feature on her social media profiles. Having authored over 75 romance novels, Carly is a proud mother of two daughters who have flown the nest.
Her book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as the first romance club pick. Carly loves to connect with her readers through social media and her newsletter.
And guess what? You can even get your hands on two of her books for free by signing up for her newsletter!
Editoral Review
Carly Phillips Dare to Desire invites readers into a world of sports, passion, and romance. Published on March 28, 2014, Dare to Desire is part of the Dare to Love series, an adult romance novel and the fourth book of the series.
The novel revolves around Alex Dare, a retired football quarterback, and Madison Evans, a sports journalist. Alex, after suffering a career-ending injury, finds himself running a bar in Miami and fighting temptations of alcoholism while Madison, fighting her own demons, struggles to maintain a balance between her journalistic integrity and her bosss demands.
Phillips writing style is clean, engaging, and crisp. She uses language brilliantly to convey the characters emotions and coping mechanisms.
Phillips moves between the viewpoints of both the protagonists, which adds depth to the story and helps readers to understand the complex relationship developing between them. The plot is well-crafted, and Phillips impressively develops all of her characters.
Alex and Madisons complicated relationship is skillfully woven into the plot, and their connection grows organically. Dare to Desire successfully combines a mix of humor, tenderness, and steamy romance.
Phillips writing shines in the poignant moments. For example, when Alex is trying to deal with his past failures and present struggles, and Madison tries to help him, the prose flows naturally, emphasizing the closeness between the characters.
The scene unfolds beautifully, with Phillips able to capture the human experience in raw and honest scenes. Unfortunately, Dare to Desire suffers from a certain amount of predictability.
The plot twists are somewhat predictable, but it doesn’t detract from the enjoyment of the novel. Additionally, while the writing style is engaging, it is not particularly innovative, and Phillips’ descriptions can sometimes feel overly simplistic.
Despite these minor flaws, Dare to Desire is an enjoyable read. Readers who enjoy sports romance novels will appreciate the story’s setting, and those who enjoy contemporary romance will enjoy the complex relationship between Alex and Madison.
Furthermore, the novel delves realistically into the issues of addiction and the struggle to balance one’s personal and professional life. Overall, Dare to Desire is a well-written, heartwarming romance novel.
Carly Phillips has added another feather to her cap with this fourth installment of the Dare to Love series. Readers who enjoy Phillips writing style and romantic stories will undoubtedly enjoy this novel.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
