SACKED is Book 1 in Jen Frederick's Gridiron series. After reading the second book in this Gridiron series, I was intrigued by Knox Masters—the college football hero, virgin who followed his heart—and immediately had to go back and read SACKED. Even though I'm not a fan of football, I soon found myself captivated by Knox and Ellie's romance. For someone like me, who is unfamiliar with sports lingo, I learned some things and enjoyed the strong feelings of family and friendship in SACKED.

When Knox and Ellie first meet at the opening of SACKED, there is exactly the kind of sparkling dialogue and brilliantly paced scene Jen Frederick does so well. They are instantly charmed by each other, and Jen Frederick captures the exhilaration of attraction. I like how sincere and intense Knox's feelings for Ellie are so soon after meeting. His ardent and amusing pursuit of her throughout the book, as well as his unwavering belief in the rightness of their connection, makes SACKED such a joy to read. Jen Frederick masterfully builds the anticipation before Knox and Ellie finally consummate their relationship. The fireworks and general heat Ellie and Know give off are so dazzling you can't help but smile as you read SACKED. The moments of extreme tenderness and caring between the hero and heroine act as a nice counterpoint to the eroticism.

Although I'm not a football fan, I enjoyed learning a little about some of the sport basics, as well as assorted football trivia while reading SACKED. I also really love the parables about family and friendship. Gifted with truly despicable and cold parents, Jack and Ellie have an extremely close sibling relationship that is interesting to read about. Jack and Ellie's individual struggles, partly visited on them by their parents, have greatly influenced who they are today. I also love the camaraderie Knox has with his teammates. As young men who are given a taste of local celebrity, the players can be a little gross and a little dopey at times, but also funny and incredibly supportive of each other.

SACKED is a knockout with appealing characters and an intoxicating romance. Several supporting characters have me curious to know more about them in future books—like Ellie's brother Jack, and her roommate Riley. Jen Frederick has me hooked and I can't wait for the next Gridiron romance!

Book Summary

What he wants he gets...

Knox Masters is a quarterback's worst nightmare. Warrior. Champion. And...virgin. Knox knows what he wants--and he gets it. All American Football player? Check. NFL pros scouting him? Check. Now, he's set his sight on two things. The national title. And Ellie Campbell. Sure, she's the sister of his fellow teammate, but that's not going to stop him. Especially not when he's convinced Ellie is the one.

...but he's never met her before.

But Ellie isn't as sure. She's trying to start a new life and she's not interested in a relationship...with anyone. Beside it's not just her cardinal rule of never dating her brother's teammates that keeps her away, but Ellie has a dark secret that would jeopardize everything Knox is pursuing.

Knox has no intention of losing. Ellie has no intention of giving in.