Playing Defense (Corrigan Falls Raiders #2) by Cate Cameron Review

Playing Defense by Cate Cameron
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cate Cameron’s Playing Defense is another win for the Corrigan Falls Raiders Series. The story starts off at the same time as the cow incident that took place in book one, Center Ice. I thought that scene was pretty funny, so I enjoyed reading about it from the mastermind’s point of view. Hockey player, Chris Winslow needs a tutor to help him out with advanced functions and chemistry. Claudia Waring needs to diversify her activities for her college applications, so she can get into her school of choice. The two opposites challenge each other to expand their horizons. This contemporary young adult sports romance takes place in Corrigan Falls, Ontario.

I enjoy Chris’ character. He is a defenseman for the Corrigan Falls Raiders, a semi-pro junior hockey in the OHL. He is a senior who has been living with a billet family. He is carefree, not taking much seriously. I love that Chris is secure enough to be part of the sisterhood and to support his friend Oliver by going to a gay function even though he is straight. He doesn’t care what other think about him. He is confident, except when it comes to Claudia.

I like that Claudia took a chance and stepped out of her comfort zone. I love that she did what she felt was right for her and not what was expected of her. Her mom was seriously overbearing. She would not be an easy person to stand up to.

I love that Chris and Claudia are opposites and challenge each other to be “awesome." Both characters took chances to try to improve themselves. Chris helps Claudia loosen up, while Claudia helps Chris take things more seriously. The two are good for each other and their personal development.

I appreciated Ms. Coyne. She was a great teacher. I like that she challenges the students, and that she is excited by the things they come up with. I think it is great that she valued the “sisterhood” and asked Claudia and Karen if they minded if she started a group with her friends.

Some unexpected things happen in the story that tests both characters. This novel has a little of everything: humor, action, drama, tragedy, and romance. I enjoyed the plot. It was believable and well executed. The characters are well-developed and show tremendous growth. There are a lot of interesting things that happen between the main and support characters. I enjoy Cate Cameron’s writing style. Her stories flow well and keep you fully engaged. I love the Corrigan Falls Raiders Series and cannot wait for Toby Cooper's story in the next book, Winging It.

Complimentary copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Kindle Edition, 178 pages
Published March 14th 2016 by Entangled: Crush
ASIN: B01BSNFSGS
Edition Language: English
Series: Corrigan Falls Raiders #2

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