Crunch Time
This is my favorite of the series so far. It managed to edge out Maddoc and Ivan's book for the top spot.George is a cute guy who teaches fourth grade and is passionate about his work.
Darren is a soon to be ex-football player, injured in the prime of his career. He's got a chance to be the host for a sports show but Darren can barely read or write. That's where George comes in.
Right from the beginning I loved George. He's a little nerdy, pretty witty and loves being a teacher. What I loved most about George is the way he handles Darren. He refuses to back down from the big, hot football player, even when Darren barges in with his attitude. George lets Darren know that he'll help only if Darren really wants the help.
Darren stole my heart before he even came onto the scene. He's young and doesn't have enough education to write out his own checks. The scene at George's house where Darren reads the sixth grade book so that George can assess his skill level, just about broke my heart. Darren thinks he's stupid, only good at football and worthless if he can't play. Man I just wanted to squeeze him.
People have always thought Darren was good at football and beautiful but no one ever valued him for his mind. Everyone knew George was intelligent but never saw him as beautiful, and judge him negatively because he has a bad hip since birth.
George sees Darren for what's in his heart and his intelligence. Darren not only values George's intelligence but he loves his kind heart and his spirit. Darren also thinks George is a sexy little thing.
Both characters are so sweet and vulnerable that I couldn't help but love this book.
