Ana Strikes Again!

Hi! It has been a while since I did a book review! I have read lots of books since my last post. However, life got busy. You know the drill of adult life. :) 

For those who are new here, welcome to Bess’ Book Corner. If you love romance, I’m your girl. If you like dark romance, I’m your girl! ;) 

We will be reviewing the new Ana Huang book, The Striker. 

If you have not read this book, please do not continue; it will be spoiled for you. 

Asher Donovan is a legendary football player in England and has a smooth demeanor with the ladies. However, he is also known for his reckless behavior, which has sparked controversy. He was traded to the team his rival plays on, Vincent DuBois. There is much friction, so in the off-season, Vincent and Asher are forced to bond during off-season training. 

Scarlett DuBois, a former ballerina whose career ended too short by a tragedy, is now a teacher at a prestigious ballet school. One thing she hates is football players. Now, she has to train with a football player, not just anyone but the handsome and charming Asher Donovan. When her brother leaves for a family emergency, she is forced to be close to Asher. Training is not the problem. She can do that. But falling in love? Hell no. But can she help it when she knows he is the only one who can break her heart? 

Please note this takes place in England. Football is soccer.

Oh, Ana, if you ever read this, THANK YOU!

I am so happy with this book—a sports-forbidden love with forced proximity. I love books where the connection is so instant; however, they won’t admit they are in love until the end. Love at first sight is an ick. I have always loved Ana’s writing style. With this new series, we get a Josh/Jules cameo from Twisted Hate, Kai and Isabella from King of Pride, and Vuk with the soon-to-be-released King of Envy in April 2025. It is only fitting because Asher was also a cameo in the other books. Because he is Asher fucking Donovan. Ana has a knack for intertwining these series with one another. It is fascinating and, in all honesty, a God-given talent. I want to know her secret to keep these straight and not create plot holes in her books. Ana did well hyping this book up. Giving us random quotes from the book before it was released. THE BALETT STUDIO SCENE! OH. MY. GAWD. The setup for that scene and the details, the leg up on the pole! Then, the betrayal afterward. My mind is blown. It was a thick book. There were times when it was slow, but at the same time, I feel I could have read another 500 pages, and I wouldn't even have known. 

Defender is coming out in October of 2025! We will see Vincent Debois and romance with the Coach’s daughter! Strap in; I have a feeling it will be a good one. ;) 

Spice: Do not let your mom read this, especially the Ballet studio scene. It made me blush. 

Let me know what you think in the comments! What book should I review next?

Fun Dog Facts

45% of dogs in the U.S. sleep in their beds. Yes, as much as I want to cuddle with Bess, she will go into bed to sleep. But she knows when she’s ready for bed. She will sit and whine at the bedroom door, letting me know it is her bedtime.