4.5 stars

I didn't think that this author could redeem Troy after the first book. I thought I'd made up my mind on his character and judged him because of a few moments. I regret that now because Troy was nothing like what I had judged him by. He wasn't a player or a stereotypical player/jock. Good lord, he was soooooooooo much more than that and I loved hi.

I loved Clarissa too. I understood where she was coming from. I, also, could see Troy and the effort he was making. Dante stole the show though. That kid had me laughing several times. Great banter, hilarious moments between Troy and Parker, Clarissa's best friend.

This was just a feel good story, with a sprinkle of humor, a dash of spice, and A bumpy ride to love ever after. There is a reason why this author is one of my favorites. ( )

I have some complicated feelings on this. The first half, I generally quite enjoyed, even if there were some things that bothered me. But the conflict(s) at the end were completely ridiculous and at some point this story just lost me. I'm not even sure I want to read the third book anymore. ( )

This book continues the Underdogs series. I am a push over for a good underdog. I loved the first book so much that I highly anticipated this one and I did really enjoy it, but not quite as much as book one. I loved the character of Troy. This story is happing simultaneously with book one, so we are able to understand a little more about what was going on with Troy all along in that book. I admired his resolve. I was not as much of a fan of Clarissa. While I could understand where she was coming from for the most part, I just thought she was far too harsh, especially near the end of the book. I liked the supporting characters, and look forward to The Guy in the Middle. ( )