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The Darcy Brothers #3
The Perfect Catch
He blocked the penalty shot, but he left his heart unguarded.
French goalkeeper Noah Masson wants to prove his worth to Coach and help his team win the gold. With an unruly mutt for company, a part-time gig to pay rent, and the national Water Polo Championships fast approaching, Noah is one hundred percent focused on his goal.
That is, until he catches a beautiful intruder poking around his kitchen…
American realtor-in-training Sophie Bander wants to convince her overbearing father she can be a first-class agent. Now she’s in Paris, learning the ropes at a large agency. When she’s done, she’ll return to Key West, join her father’s business, and marry the man of his dreams. It’s not like she expects to be attracted to that man. Sophie has never felt sexual attraction, anyway.
That is, until a hard-bodied goalie mistakes her for a thief and presses her against the wall in his kitchen…
☆ THE PERFECT CATCH is a full-length standalone contemporary sports romance filled with humor and heat. Guaranteed HEA, no cliffhanger, intended for adult audiences. ☆
French goalkeeper Noah Masson wants to prove his worth to Coach and help his team win the gold. With an unruly mutt for company, a part-time gig to pay rent, and the national Water Polo Championships fast approaching, Noah is one hundred percent focused on his goal.
That is, until he catches a beautiful intruder poking around his kitchen…
American realtor-in-training Sophie Bander wants to convince her overbearing father she can be a first-class agent. Now she’s in Paris, learning the ropes at a large agency. When she’s done, she’ll return to Key West, join her father’s business, and marry the man of his dreams. It’s not like she expects to be attracted to that man. Sophie has never felt sexual attraction, anyway.
That is, until a hard-bodied goalie mistakes her for a thief and presses her against the wall in his kitchen…
☆ THE PERFECT CATCH is a full-length standalone contemporary sports romance filled with humor and heat. Guaranteed HEA, no cliffhanger, intended for adult audiences. ☆
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2017
About the author
Alix Nichols
48 books2,162 followersAlix Nichols is a caffeine addict, a fan of Mr. Darcy and an award-winning author on Book Riot's list of 100 must-read international romances.
She pens sexy romantic comedies and romantic fantasy. Her books have been described as "pure pleasure" (Kirkus Reviews) that “keep fans of romance hanging off the edge of your seat” (RT Book Reviews).
At the age of six, she released her first book. It featured highly creative spelling on a dozen pages stitched together and bound in velvet paper. Decades later, she still writes. Her spelling has improved (somewhat), and her books have topped bestseller charts around the world.
She lives in France with her family and their almost-human dog.
**To read a rom-com FREE, visit: alixnichols.com/freebies (just copy and paste into your browser).**
Series and Books:
ROMANTIC COMEDIES
It’s Raining Royals (newest series)
1. The Boss Prince
2. The Bastard Prince
3. The Beast Prince
La Bohème (complete series)
1. Winter’s Gift
2. What If It’s Love?
3. Falling for Emma
4. Under My Skin
You’re the One (companion novella, free to newsletter subscribers)
The Darcy Brothers (complete series)
1. Find You in Paris
2. Raphael’s Fling
3. The Perfect Catch
Clarissa and the Cowboy (companion novella)
Playing to Win (complete series)
1. Playing with Fire
2. Playing for Keeps
3. Playing Dirty
Coffee Shop Romances (standalones)
The Devil’s Own Chloe
Amanda’s Guide to Love
An Autumn in Paris
ROMANTIC FANTASY
Keepers of Xereill (complete series within a broader saga)
The Enforcer’s Lady (prequel novella)
1. The Traitor’s Bride
2. The Commander’s Captive
3. The Dragon’s Woman
4. The Samurai’s Lover
5. The Vestal’s Steward
She pens sexy romantic comedies and romantic fantasy. Her books have been described as "pure pleasure" (Kirkus Reviews) that “keep fans of romance hanging off the edge of your seat” (RT Book Reviews).
At the age of six, she released her first book. It featured highly creative spelling on a dozen pages stitched together and bound in velvet paper. Decades later, she still writes. Her spelling has improved (somewhat), and her books have topped bestseller charts around the world.
She lives in France with her family and their almost-human dog.
**To read a rom-com FREE, visit: alixnichols.com/freebies (just copy and paste into your browser).**
Series and Books:
ROMANTIC COMEDIES
It’s Raining Royals (newest series)
1. The Boss Prince
2. The Bastard Prince
3. The Beast Prince
La Bohème (complete series)
1. Winter’s Gift
2. What If It’s Love?
3. Falling for Emma
4. Under My Skin
You’re the One (companion novella, free to newsletter subscribers)
The Darcy Brothers (complete series)
1. Find You in Paris
2. Raphael’s Fling
3. The Perfect Catch
Clarissa and the Cowboy (companion novella)
Playing to Win (complete series)
1. Playing with Fire
2. Playing for Keeps
3. Playing Dirty
Coffee Shop Romances (standalones)
The Devil’s Own Chloe
Amanda’s Guide to Love
An Autumn in Paris
ROMANTIC FANTASY
Keepers of Xereill (complete series within a broader saga)
The Enforcer’s Lady (prequel novella)
1. The Traitor’s Bride
2. The Commander’s Captive
3. The Dragon’s Woman
4. The Samurai’s Lover
5. The Vestal’s Steward
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 30, 2017
Noah is determined to make it on his own & has walked away from his family’s money & name. He lives a humble life in Paris working part-time & playing Professional French Water Polo. Though the water polo gig doesn’t pay well at all. He is part of a club working toward winning gold for a chance to compete in the Olympics. His life is simple & he likes it that way until one afternoon he finds someone in his apartment uninvited. Sophie is a real estate intern working in Paris trying to acquire knowledge & experience away from her well established realtor father who is a big deal in the Florida Keys. She wants to make a mark for herself without her father’s influence. Sophie is startled when Noah returns home to find her in his kitchen uninvited. She explains he is her new landlord & that she is there to look at the leak he has complained about. Soon Noah & Sophie are spending a great deal of time together but Noah is not completely honest about who he is or where he has come from. He wants to keep that part of his life behind him. But when Noah’s mom & Sophie’s father come into the picture everything comes out in the open. Sophie insists on going back to the states & forgetting all about her time spent in Paris? Will Noah get an opportunity to explain his story to Sophie? Will Sophie ever be able to forgive Noah? What does the future hold for Noah & Sophie?
The Perfect Catch brings to life the story of the youngest D’Arcy brother. He has spent most of his life believing the stories he was told about his brothers from his mom. It turns out not everything he was told was the whole truth & Noah has to learn for himself that being a D’Arcy isn’t all bad. While Noah & Sophie are getting to know each other, it is clear they both have made plans for how they expect to live their lives. Funny thing happens when you make forever plans when you are so young, they don’t always end up working out the way you expect them to. This was a very charming love story & involved a rather great side character Oscar, Noah’s mutt. Being a dog lover, Oscar was a fun & entertaining addition to the story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
The Perfect Catch brings to life the story of the youngest D’Arcy brother. He has spent most of his life believing the stories he was told about his brothers from his mom. It turns out not everything he was told was the whole truth & Noah has to learn for himself that being a D’Arcy isn’t all bad. While Noah & Sophie are getting to know each other, it is clear they both have made plans for how they expect to live their lives. Funny thing happens when you make forever plans when you are so young, they don’t always end up working out the way you expect them to. This was a very charming love story & involved a rather great side character Oscar, Noah’s mutt. Being a dog lover, Oscar was a fun & entertaining addition to the story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
March 17, 2017
The Perfect Catch by Alex Nichols
3.5 Stars
Give me a sports romance to read and I'm a happy girl!
Give me a sports romance about a sport I've never read, and I'll rapidly consume it. Water Polo is not a book theme I've ever read! I really enjoyed it though! I learned a lot about the sport and the FRENCH-m language-I felt like I was back in grade school and I had to touch up on some of my vocabulary and verb conjugations.
Sophie and Noah are not your typical match. A fledgling real estate agent trying to get out from under her dads thumb, Sophia branches out on her own to make a name for herself. Without the help of her dad or his company.
Noah is a yummy water polo player-and I must say, I think I could watch hot dudes in bathing suits all day long, rough housing around in the water! I thought he was funny and sweet and even though Sophie and Noah didn't initially click for me, I had the whole book to fall for them as a couple and fall I did! I really enjoyed how they got to know each other and the journey they took together.
Familial drama was a current theme throughout the entire read and it kept me invested and interested for the whole book. I felt for the characters and for their strife.
The book flowed well and even though I think this was the third book in a trilogy, and there were a few things I wasn't able to follow along with right away, I was eventually able to figure it out in the end and it worked well as a stand alone.
A first for me for Nichols-I always enjoy reading new books from authors I've never heard of and I'm so glad I was offered an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.
***Reviewed by Jess for joandisalovebooks blog***
3.5 Stars
Give me a sports romance to read and I'm a happy girl!
Give me a sports romance about a sport I've never read, and I'll rapidly consume it. Water Polo is not a book theme I've ever read! I really enjoyed it though! I learned a lot about the sport and the FRENCH-m language-I felt like I was back in grade school and I had to touch up on some of my vocabulary and verb conjugations.
Sophie and Noah are not your typical match. A fledgling real estate agent trying to get out from under her dads thumb, Sophia branches out on her own to make a name for herself. Without the help of her dad or his company.
Noah is a yummy water polo player-and I must say, I think I could watch hot dudes in bathing suits all day long, rough housing around in the water! I thought he was funny and sweet and even though Sophie and Noah didn't initially click for me, I had the whole book to fall for them as a couple and fall I did! I really enjoyed how they got to know each other and the journey they took together.
Familial drama was a current theme throughout the entire read and it kept me invested and interested for the whole book. I felt for the characters and for their strife.
The book flowed well and even though I think this was the third book in a trilogy, and there were a few things I wasn't able to follow along with right away, I was eventually able to figure it out in the end and it worked well as a stand alone.
A first for me for Nichols-I always enjoy reading new books from authors I've never heard of and I'm so glad I was offered an ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.
***Reviewed by Jess for joandisalovebooks blog***
March 22, 2017
Noah Masson too his mother’s maiden name as he was upset with his father and two brothers. Noah was really a d’Arcy and when his father died, inherited the Chateau d’Arcy. He the goalie in the Paris water polo club. He delivers pizzas to make extra money. He is renting his apartment from Ludwig Bander. His kitchen sink will not work and has contacted the owner. He comes home one evening to find a woman getting ready to go through his cabinets. He grabs her and she wrestles with him. She finally gets through to him that she is Ludwig’s daughter Sophie and is in Paris taking care of his apartment. Noah is attracted to Sophie and they start spending time together. Sophie is in Paris to learn more about the Real Estate market and then go back to Key West to help her father run his business. Noah’s mother is trying to match him up with Uma who he grew up with in Nepal. You need to read the story to see what happens.
There are a couple of people in this story that think they know what is best for their children. Their plans get in the way of what Noah and Sophie really want. I am afraid that Noah’s mother has told stories about his father and brothers in the past to make them look bad. This has made Noah hate them and not want anything to do with them. I loved that the wife of one of Noah’s brothers kept writing him and trying to talk to Noah. I also learned some things about water polo that I never knew. There are some wonderful supporting characters in the book also that were very interesting. I was a good story and I encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
There are a couple of people in this story that think they know what is best for their children. Their plans get in the way of what Noah and Sophie really want. I am afraid that Noah’s mother has told stories about his father and brothers in the past to make them look bad. This has made Noah hate them and not want anything to do with them. I loved that the wife of one of Noah’s brothers kept writing him and trying to talk to Noah. I also learned some things about water polo that I never knew. There are some wonderful supporting characters in the book also that were very interesting. I was a good story and I encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
February 18, 2018
And finally we know the story of the youngest of the Darcy Brothers, Noah.
Noah was not known as a Darcy, but rather as Masson, his mother's maiden name.
Many years ago, as a child, Noah left Paris and moved in with his mother in Nepal. Because of her, he stayed away from the brothers, but he also believed in unbearable stories about them, so he did not want any connection.
When he returned as an adult to Paris, he did not look for his brothers and refused any meeting with them.
He played as goalkeeper on the Water Polo team, but also delivered pizza to supplement the income.
She did not live like a rich Darcy.
When he meets an unknown woman in his rented apartment, he learns that she is his new landlord.
Sophie is in fact the daughter of Ludwig Bander, owner of the apartment, and she went to Paris, from America, to prove to her father that she could stand out as a realtor.
As their attraction grows, as do their relationship, the various secrets they have kept from each other begin to emerge.
Both have parents who find they know what is best for their children, causing much confusion.
At the same time, Sebastian and Raphael are tired of seeing their little brother think the worst of them and decide to go after and solve the situation.
A great comedy of mistakes, mismatches, but, finally, the truth prevails.
The book comes full of information about Water Polo - a sport little quoted in books - funny scenes and lots of romance.
4,5 stars
Noah was not known as a Darcy, but rather as Masson, his mother's maiden name.
Many years ago, as a child, Noah left Paris and moved in with his mother in Nepal. Because of her, he stayed away from the brothers, but he also believed in unbearable stories about them, so he did not want any connection.
When he returned as an adult to Paris, he did not look for his brothers and refused any meeting with them.
He played as goalkeeper on the Water Polo team, but also delivered pizza to supplement the income.
She did not live like a rich Darcy.
When he meets an unknown woman in his rented apartment, he learns that she is his new landlord.
Sophie is in fact the daughter of Ludwig Bander, owner of the apartment, and she went to Paris, from America, to prove to her father that she could stand out as a realtor.
As their attraction grows, as do their relationship, the various secrets they have kept from each other begin to emerge.
Both have parents who find they know what is best for their children, causing much confusion.
At the same time, Sebastian and Raphael are tired of seeing their little brother think the worst of them and decide to go after and solve the situation.
A great comedy of mistakes, mismatches, but, finally, the truth prevails.
The book comes full of information about Water Polo - a sport little quoted in books - funny scenes and lots of romance.
4,5 stars
March 22, 2017
Genre: Romance - Sports
Stand Alone: Yes
Part of a Series: Yes Book 3 of the D'Arcy Brothers Series
POV: Noah and Sophie
Steam Level: Toasty at times
4/5
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed The Perfect Catch. It was a quick, fun read. I enjoyed getting to know Noah since he was a mystery in the first two books of this series. And through Noah their mom as well. It's awesome to see all sides of the boy's story of their parents' divorce.
Sophie is great. She's smart, independent, and funny. Nichols does an excellent job writing strong female leads that aren't afraid to speak up for and defend themselves but are also vulnerable and loving.
Finally, as I've come to expect with Alix Nichols books she subtly and smartly tackles a broader topic. The issue in The Perfect Catch is one that more authors need to explore. Nichols does it so well. It didn't sound preachy. It was just factual and move on. Great work Alix!
One small spoiler but non-spoiler since this is The D'Arcy Brothers series. I would have liked to seen a little more of their reconciliation. Maybe in a future book? Novella? Short story? Online extra? All three brothers have strong personalities so it would be fun to see this in action.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. Im voluntarily giving an honest review and am looking forward to Alix Nichols next book.
Stand Alone: Yes
Part of a Series: Yes Book 3 of the D'Arcy Brothers Series
POV: Noah and Sophie
Steam Level: Toasty at times
4/5
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed The Perfect Catch. It was a quick, fun read. I enjoyed getting to know Noah since he was a mystery in the first two books of this series. And through Noah their mom as well. It's awesome to see all sides of the boy's story of their parents' divorce.
Sophie is great. She's smart, independent, and funny. Nichols does an excellent job writing strong female leads that aren't afraid to speak up for and defend themselves but are also vulnerable and loving.
Finally, as I've come to expect with Alix Nichols books she subtly and smartly tackles a broader topic. The issue in The Perfect Catch is one that more authors need to explore. Nichols does it so well. It didn't sound preachy. It was just factual and move on. Great work Alix!
One small spoiler but non-spoiler since this is The D'Arcy Brothers series. I would have liked to seen a little more of their reconciliation. Maybe in a future book? Novella? Short story? Online extra? All three brothers have strong personalities so it would be fun to see this in action.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. Im voluntarily giving an honest review and am looking forward to Alix Nichols next book.
March 17, 2017
Noah and Sophie's story is one that had to be told.
He is heir to a fortune but is on a water polo team and delivers pizza at night. She comes from a broken home and believes beyond a doubt that she is frigid. But when Noah comes into her life she starts having strange feelings and rather than be disappointed, tries to deny them.
We also have meddling parents, her father and his mother and they are very keen to keep the pair apart, permanently.
This is a story of all the ups and downs they go through and in the end it is 'the perfect catch' in more ways than one.
I loved their strengths and weaknesses and the trust that was building between the two of them.
Alix Nichols has done a splendid job in this short story and I am happy to recommend it.
I received an advance copy from the author and this is my unbiased and honest review.
He is heir to a fortune but is on a water polo team and delivers pizza at night. She comes from a broken home and believes beyond a doubt that she is frigid. But when Noah comes into her life she starts having strange feelings and rather than be disappointed, tries to deny them.
We also have meddling parents, her father and his mother and they are very keen to keep the pair apart, permanently.
This is a story of all the ups and downs they go through and in the end it is 'the perfect catch' in more ways than one.
I loved their strengths and weaknesses and the trust that was building between the two of them.
Alix Nichols has done a splendid job in this short story and I am happy to recommend it.
I received an advance copy from the author and this is my unbiased and honest review.
May 2, 2017
The Perfect Catch, the third story in the Darcy Brothers series, focuses oh the youngest brother, water polo player, Noah. Raised by his mother after his parents divorced, Noah has been so estranged from his brothers that he even goes by his mother's maiden name. Romantic relationships are not part of his life plan, but then he meets his new landlady, American, Sophie Bander. Sophie, whose mother is French, is in Paris doing six months real estate internship, before returning to Florida to assist for dad in his real estate company. Told in alternating voices, the story focuses on how their relationship changes more than just their lives. It is sweet; it is spicy; it is great fun to read. I received an advance reader copy of this book. My review is voluntary. Highly recommend.
April 12, 2018
4.5 Stars
I started this book early in the morning and finished in nearly one sitting. There is just something about Alix Nichols' writing style that makes them highly readable and satisfying. I like that there aren't extreme highs and lows or overdone conflict. Obviously, there's story conflict, but resolution tends to be swift and then the story moves along.
The Perfect Catch continues The Darcy Brothers series with the focus on estranged brother Noah Masson. He's an athlete living in Paris when he meets his new landlord, Sophie. Although they initially resist a relationship with each other, logistics and attraction pull them together and they lose the battle. As with all of Alix Nichols' couples, the relationship is sweet, romantic and thoroughly compelling. This was a quick, but satisfying read. I enjoyed entering back into the Darcy orbit through the eyes of Noah. Although I would have loved to see even more of Sebastian and Raphael, I enjoyed all the previous character cameos. Ultimately, this book was another win for author Alix Nichols. I'm just sad that there aren't any other brothers to continue in this world.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of The Perfect Match. My review is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 2, 2017
Noah and Sophie both have a reason for being where they are in life. The both have small issues with facing the family name. They both have plans for their lives and expect life to follow on the path they have set for it. With a few untimed meeting. A few comments. A handful of fun times. Through some inconvenient acts and a couple turns here and there, Noah and Sophie have life hit them both. All truths are laid out. Their preparedness for it all may not be what either of them were expecting.
Antoher read in the Darcy Brother series and another piece to the puzzle of life.
Antoher read in the Darcy Brother series and another piece to the puzzle of life.
May 13, 2022
J’aime pas les livres où c’est que de la romance sans profondeur, tout est écrit d’avance, aucun suspens, me suis fait chier
March 17, 2017
"I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book"
The wait for Noah's story was worth it, it certainly answered a lot of questions from books 1 and 2. I loved seeing estranged people finding each other again and the machinations of well meaning family being thwarted by true love. Noah and Sophie overcome personal, physical and family issues to find their happily ever after while bringing together a number of people. I would love to see a related book with Zach and Uma finding each other to round off the story even though not family.
The wait for Noah's story was worth it, it certainly answered a lot of questions from books 1 and 2. I loved seeing estranged people finding each other again and the machinations of well meaning family being thwarted by true love. Noah and Sophie overcome personal, physical and family issues to find their happily ever after while bringing together a number of people. I would love to see a related book with Zach and Uma finding each other to round off the story even though not family.
March 18, 2017
Alix Nichols is one of my go-to authors for light reading. Her books have just the right amount of drama, fun, and steam, and sweetness for me to enjoy and read through easily. The Perfect Catch falls into this category as well. I breezed through it and it was fun. Noah and Sophie's chemistry comes naturally.
March 19, 2017
Great book. I really joyed this third book in the series.
March 10, 2017
Wow! The conclusion of the Darcy Brothers series was awesome! The underlying family drama we saw in the first two books is fully realized. Everything Noah has thought was the truth growing up is tested. His loyalties and restraints are tested. Enter Sophie and we have a mix of explosive chemistry, testing the limits, and discovering true desires. Another hit from Alix and an awesome read!
August 30, 2017
The Perfect Catch
Alix Nichols
Noah Masson and Sophie Bander's story
A story of a romance blooming out of a set up between friends. But when the set up doesn't go as planned, because they are taken with each other instead of their intended. But the parental units have a plan whether their kids like it or not. And it involves other people they already deamed appropriate for their kids.
Sophie Bander's life is just starting in Paris. For six months she will live in Paris while working at her dream job as a real estate agent. Not wanting to work in her dad's agency because of the favoritism that could occur. She wants to try out Paris and be close to her mom for a while she is at it. Running into the hunky water polo player slash pizza delivery guy, named Noah Masson is just the icing on the cake when she runs into him quite literally at his apartment. She's not the only one to feel the sparks of heat between them. Noah does too and he's beside himself because on one hand his childhood friend Uma is coming to town to help out, and he's been told that she likes him. On the other he likes what he sees about Sophie. But he has some sercrets that she might not like that he is hiding. Can he make it work and tell her what he is hiding? Or will all be lost due to everyone's interference?
Alix Nichols
Noah Masson and Sophie Bander's story
A story of a romance blooming out of a set up between friends. But when the set up doesn't go as planned, because they are taken with each other instead of their intended. But the parental units have a plan whether their kids like it or not. And it involves other people they already deamed appropriate for their kids.
Sophie Bander's life is just starting in Paris. For six months she will live in Paris while working at her dream job as a real estate agent. Not wanting to work in her dad's agency because of the favoritism that could occur. She wants to try out Paris and be close to her mom for a while she is at it. Running into the hunky water polo player slash pizza delivery guy, named Noah Masson is just the icing on the cake when she runs into him quite literally at his apartment. She's not the only one to feel the sparks of heat between them. Noah does too and he's beside himself because on one hand his childhood friend Uma is coming to town to help out, and he's been told that she likes him. On the other he likes what he sees about Sophie. But he has some sercrets that she might not like that he is hiding. Can he make it work and tell her what he is hiding? Or will all be lost due to everyone's interference?
November 28, 2019
3 Star Kindle Unlimited Read
I enjoyed the two previous books in this series much better. I think it's my mood that effected the enjoyment. I'll might give it another go sometime, maybe. :/
I enjoyed the two previous books in this series much better. I think it's my mood that effected the enjoyment. I'll might give it another go sometime, maybe. :/
March 24, 2017
5.0 out of 5 stars The Perfect Catch is Perfect! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, March 23, 2017
By Vicky M.
This review is from: The Perfect Catch: A Sports Romance (The Darcy Brothers) (Kindle Edition)
The Perfect Catch concludes the saga of The Darcy Bothers by Alix Nichols. The youngest brother, Noah, was separated from his older brothers when he was 8 years old at which time his mother moves with him to Nepal. His parent's failing relationship forced Noah to choose between his brothers and his mother. Being so young, he chose his mother severing the bond he had with his siblings. Noah plays professional water polo as a member of the French Swimming Federation and supports himself delivering pizza. As a goalie, Noah's team has a real chance at winning the European Aquatics League championship and qualifying for the Olympics. Noah meets a woman, Sophie Bander, who is in Paris for a realtor's internship and to spend time with her French mother who is divorced from her father. Upon completion of her internship, she plans to return to her home in Key West, Florida. Her plan is to ultimately work with her father and his real estate empire there. Sophie owns an apartment rented by Noah and she meets him for the first time when she investigates a problem with the drain in his kitchen. Despite an immediate attraction, Sophie is leary of pursuing a relationship because she is his landlord and more importantly she believes she is frigid. Noah challenges Sophie to allow him to disprove her frigidity but his dishonesty about his family origins and wealth derails their budding romance. Interfering parents compound their derailment and chance for happiness. This sweet romance offers hope to the disenchanted reader that love truly does conquer obstacles if wanted badly enough! I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book. My opinion is honest and in no way influenced by the receipt of this book.
By Vicky M.
This review is from: The Perfect Catch: A Sports Romance (The Darcy Brothers) (Kindle Edition)
The Perfect Catch concludes the saga of The Darcy Bothers by Alix Nichols. The youngest brother, Noah, was separated from his older brothers when he was 8 years old at which time his mother moves with him to Nepal. His parent's failing relationship forced Noah to choose between his brothers and his mother. Being so young, he chose his mother severing the bond he had with his siblings. Noah plays professional water polo as a member of the French Swimming Federation and supports himself delivering pizza. As a goalie, Noah's team has a real chance at winning the European Aquatics League championship and qualifying for the Olympics. Noah meets a woman, Sophie Bander, who is in Paris for a realtor's internship and to spend time with her French mother who is divorced from her father. Upon completion of her internship, she plans to return to her home in Key West, Florida. Her plan is to ultimately work with her father and his real estate empire there. Sophie owns an apartment rented by Noah and she meets him for the first time when she investigates a problem with the drain in his kitchen. Despite an immediate attraction, Sophie is leary of pursuing a relationship because she is his landlord and more importantly she believes she is frigid. Noah challenges Sophie to allow him to disprove her frigidity but his dishonesty about his family origins and wealth derails their budding romance. Interfering parents compound their derailment and chance for happiness. This sweet romance offers hope to the disenchanted reader that love truly does conquer obstacles if wanted badly enough! I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book. My opinion is honest and in no way influenced by the receipt of this book.
March 24, 2017
The Perfect Catch brings to a close the D'Arcy brothers story. It focuses on the elusive third brother Noah spoken of in the other books but about whom we know very little. Now many of our questions from the first two books are answered. This is the story of Sophie Bander and Noah Masson (D'Arcy) and how a misunderstanding leads to a friendship and later a discovery about expectations and true love.
This is a true romantic comedy. While I enjoyed the first books' stories a bit more overall, this book had the most memorable set-up or meeting between our main characters. That is the lasting image in my head even after having finished the book and I chuckle every time. It also included an unusual and oftentimes awkward courtship between the main leads that included a lovable dog, quirky characters (including meddling parents whose own side story is quite the doozy) and which allowed the reader to cringe or rejoice right along with our leads. I liked the dual perspectives which allowed us glimpses into both of the characters thoughts--both helpful to understanding and allowing for more comedic moments as the inner dialogue could be alternately spicy, hilarious, and illuminating. Normally I am not one for sports books, but in this case it just added more rather than detracting from Sophie and Noah's story.
I would highly recommend reading this for a fun, mildly spicy, romantic romp in the French countryside. I mean a castle estate, a hot water polo player, a woman on an adventurous holiday...need I say more. I enjoyed this immensely under my umbrella to escape the sun while listening to the beach in the background. Once I read that meet-up....I was hooked and finished the book in just a couple of days.
"I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.”
This is a true romantic comedy. While I enjoyed the first books' stories a bit more overall, this book had the most memorable set-up or meeting between our main characters. That is the lasting image in my head even after having finished the book and I chuckle every time. It also included an unusual and oftentimes awkward courtship between the main leads that included a lovable dog, quirky characters (including meddling parents whose own side story is quite the doozy) and which allowed the reader to cringe or rejoice right along with our leads. I liked the dual perspectives which allowed us glimpses into both of the characters thoughts--both helpful to understanding and allowing for more comedic moments as the inner dialogue could be alternately spicy, hilarious, and illuminating. Normally I am not one for sports books, but in this case it just added more rather than detracting from Sophie and Noah's story.
I would highly recommend reading this for a fun, mildly spicy, romantic romp in the French countryside. I mean a castle estate, a hot water polo player, a woman on an adventurous holiday...need I say more. I enjoyed this immensely under my umbrella to escape the sun while listening to the beach in the background. Once I read that meet-up....I was hooked and finished the book in just a couple of days.
"I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.”
January 14, 2018
Noah Masson left his roots of being a Count d'Arcy years ago and also left behind his brothers to live with his maman when he was a young boy living with hate for his brothers that he refuses to forgive. Noah lives his life as a goalie and a pizza delivery man to bring in extra income. Sophie is a woman with French roots but deiced to live with her father in Florida but is going to spend some time in Paris as an intern to learn the Realtor ways before going back home to join her fathers business. Sophie has felt like when it comes to the opposite sex and sex in general that its not worth the distraction as she has always felt frigid but when she meets her new tenant she feels things she has never felt before.
What I enjoyed most about The Perfect Catch is watching two people who live their lives in a specific way find each other and learn each other slowly and then watching them fall in love with each other without knowing what the future will bring them, watching Sophie come out of her shell and make an effort when it comes to a man, and seeing Noah at first wanting to set her up with his good friend but wanting to keep her for himself as his feelings run deeper then he first thought.
This book was amazing just like the other d'Arcy brother books. This book has two people who get to be friends then more while learning each other and taking it slow. Sophie a woman who knows what she wants and doesnt want finds an unexpected detour while in Paris one she wont regret, Noah a man who fibs about who he really is to Sophie but believing it is right because he became the man he is years ago, a love story. If you like stories like this, then The Perfect Catch is a must!
What I enjoyed most about The Perfect Catch is watching two people who live their lives in a specific way find each other and learn each other slowly and then watching them fall in love with each other without knowing what the future will bring them, watching Sophie come out of her shell and make an effort when it comes to a man, and seeing Noah at first wanting to set her up with his good friend but wanting to keep her for himself as his feelings run deeper then he first thought.
This book was amazing just like the other d'Arcy brother books. This book has two people who get to be friends then more while learning each other and taking it slow. Sophie a woman who knows what she wants and doesnt want finds an unexpected detour while in Paris one she wont regret, Noah a man who fibs about who he really is to Sophie but believing it is right because he became the man he is years ago, a love story. If you like stories like this, then The Perfect Catch is a must!
March 24, 2017
I did receive a Free ARC Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This does start off a bit on the slow side.
The main female character is, Sophie, who is from Key West, FL, but, doing an internship in France for a real-estate company. Her father has an apartment over in Paris, and one of the tenets is having issues with his sink / plumbing problems. That is when she meets, Noah, the 27 yr old man who is renting the apartment. He is also a water polo goalie, and is a pizza delivery man on the side also.
Noah is very large and strong loves water polo even though it doesn't pay the best. However, he loves the water and traveling and playing against the other teams that they do. His teammates and him have Olympic aspirations, maybe one day. Noah seems like a kind soul, who isn't after wealth, he is there to go along in the world. Take nothing for granted.
Noah does have an instant attraction for Sophie. However, Sophie knows she's only there for a short time with her internship and then will be moving back to the US. She's not sure it would be wise to have a relationship with someone in France and then leave. So, she has mixed feelings on what she should do.
Sophie has been hurt in her relationships also. She's not sure if there's something wrong with her, or something wrong with the men that she chooses to have relationships with.
Noah seems to be up for courting and taking care of Sophie until she is ready to make a decision.
This does start off a bit on the slow side.
The main female character is, Sophie, who is from Key West, FL, but, doing an internship in France for a real-estate company. Her father has an apartment over in Paris, and one of the tenets is having issues with his sink / plumbing problems. That is when she meets, Noah, the 27 yr old man who is renting the apartment. He is also a water polo goalie, and is a pizza delivery man on the side also.
Noah is very large and strong loves water polo even though it doesn't pay the best. However, he loves the water and traveling and playing against the other teams that they do. His teammates and him have Olympic aspirations, maybe one day. Noah seems like a kind soul, who isn't after wealth, he is there to go along in the world. Take nothing for granted.
Noah does have an instant attraction for Sophie. However, Sophie knows she's only there for a short time with her internship and then will be moving back to the US. She's not sure it would be wise to have a relationship with someone in France and then leave. So, she has mixed feelings on what she should do.
Sophie has been hurt in her relationships also. She's not sure if there's something wrong with her, or something wrong with the men that she chooses to have relationships with.
Noah seems to be up for courting and taking care of Sophie until she is ready to make a decision.
July 19, 2018
Dans ce tome nous découvrons enfin Noé, le troisième frère Darcy.
Oui il s'appelle Noé Masson.
Oui il est joueur de Water Polo,
Oui il est livreur de pizza à mi temps.
Oui il est aussi un Darcy
Mais ce dernier point ne représente rien pour lui, ça ne dirige en aucun cas sa vie. Enfin c'est ce qu'il croyait….
Elle c'est Sophie Bander
Américaine de son état,
Propriétaire d'un appartement en location.
En stage à Paris avant de retourner dans les Keys afin de suivre son destin tout tracé par son "Popa" et épouser un homme qui conviendra à ce dernier, d'ailleurs pourquoi s'embeter à le choisir elle-même puisqu'elle ne ressent absolument rien.
Bref vous l'aurez compris ils ont chacun un destin tout tracé, une petite vie bien tranquille. Oui mais la vie nous réserve parfois de drôles de surprises…..
Un locataire qui trouve une voleuse chez lui
Un chien - chat - humain qui n'en fait qu'à sa tête
Des voisins "envahissant"
Des parents qui le sont encore plus
Un mariage à Paris sous la canicule….
Un cocktail détonnant et une fois une plus une véritable bouffée de fraîcheur et bien être que de lire Alix. Elle nous ravie avec son style, son écriture, son imagination et maintenant je ne dirais qu'un mot (enfin presque….) A Quand le prochain ??? !!!!
Oui il s'appelle Noé Masson.
Oui il est joueur de Water Polo,
Oui il est livreur de pizza à mi temps.
Oui il est aussi un Darcy
Mais ce dernier point ne représente rien pour lui, ça ne dirige en aucun cas sa vie. Enfin c'est ce qu'il croyait….
Elle c'est Sophie Bander
Américaine de son état,
Propriétaire d'un appartement en location.
En stage à Paris avant de retourner dans les Keys afin de suivre son destin tout tracé par son "Popa" et épouser un homme qui conviendra à ce dernier, d'ailleurs pourquoi s'embeter à le choisir elle-même puisqu'elle ne ressent absolument rien.
Bref vous l'aurez compris ils ont chacun un destin tout tracé, une petite vie bien tranquille. Oui mais la vie nous réserve parfois de drôles de surprises…..
Un locataire qui trouve une voleuse chez lui
Un chien - chat - humain qui n'en fait qu'à sa tête
Des voisins "envahissant"
Des parents qui le sont encore plus
Un mariage à Paris sous la canicule….
Un cocktail détonnant et une fois une plus une véritable bouffée de fraîcheur et bien être que de lire Alix. Elle nous ravie avec son style, son écriture, son imagination et maintenant je ne dirais qu'un mot (enfin presque….) A Quand le prochain ??? !!!!
March 23, 2017
This book was another home run for Alix. I love these Darcy brothers books, and while I have read the other 2, this one can be read on its own and you won't feel like you are missing anything. I love that this is a sports book, and a different one no less with being about water polo.
Noah plays professional water polo and also is a part time pizza delivery boy. He doesn't talk about his "Darcy" side and basically pretends it doesn't exist. But this book does a great job of explaining why and yet leaves some mystery until closer to the end, but also gives you bits and pieces throughout, so you will always stay entertained.
Sophie thinks she is frigid and yet she starts getting "excited" by Noah, and she can't help but love it.
Sophie and Noah's first meeting cracked me up and what a great way to have them meet for the first time. I love when an author can make that creative and even better when I can laugh out loud about it. Plus, neither wanted to be in a relationship so you didn't have them rushing into anything, I loved how they were friends first and then things progressed naturally.
If you have read the other 2 books in this series, there are references to Sebastian and Raphael throughout the book so that of course is an added bonus, but again, if you haven't you won't feel like you are missing something.
Overall, this was a really great, fun read. I would give this a 4.5 out of 5.
Noah plays professional water polo and also is a part time pizza delivery boy. He doesn't talk about his "Darcy" side and basically pretends it doesn't exist. But this book does a great job of explaining why and yet leaves some mystery until closer to the end, but also gives you bits and pieces throughout, so you will always stay entertained.
Sophie thinks she is frigid and yet she starts getting "excited" by Noah, and she can't help but love it.
Sophie and Noah's first meeting cracked me up and what a great way to have them meet for the first time. I love when an author can make that creative and even better when I can laugh out loud about it. Plus, neither wanted to be in a relationship so you didn't have them rushing into anything, I loved how they were friends first and then things progressed naturally.
If you have read the other 2 books in this series, there are references to Sebastian and Raphael throughout the book so that of course is an added bonus, but again, if you haven't you won't feel like you are missing something.
Overall, this was a really great, fun read. I would give this a 4.5 out of 5.
March 23, 2017
Going into Perfect Catch, I pretty ecstatic! I am all about Sports Romances; Water Polo is not one that I read about very often, so that alone is something to not only peak my reading interest but a great visual. I may have shamelessly did a search on Water Polo Goalies to see if their ehem hands were, in fact, big as described, ya know for references purposes. * whispers* they really are..
And I'm back-- Noah is the Alpha Pro Water Polo Goalie/ pizza delivery man, with secrets galore, his dog Oliver is his pride and joy.
Sophie is the ice queen, willing to do whatever her dad says intern Real Estate agent who owns Noah's apartment building.
These two meet the sparks between them are dynamic! But he's not looking for any distractions during the season, and she doesn't do relationships. So why can't they stay away from each other?
Family drama- Secrets- Lies- Hot times in Pairs here we come.
So I was still as ecstatic after reading it!
I liked Perfect Catch; I felt it was an edgy sports romance, a fast-paced, easy read, had this awesomeness finished in one sitting! I liked most of the characters, especially Noah- he was IMO a brilliant Alpha H, Sophie eh- she drove me a bit nuts, but it was not enough that I didn't want to root for them both!
Sexy- flirtatious, dramatic plot, with a very sweet HEA.
I really hope to see a book about Uma and Zach!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book
And I'm back-- Noah is the Alpha Pro Water Polo Goalie/ pizza delivery man, with secrets galore, his dog Oliver is his pride and joy.
Sophie is the ice queen, willing to do whatever her dad says intern Real Estate agent who owns Noah's apartment building.
These two meet the sparks between them are dynamic! But he's not looking for any distractions during the season, and she doesn't do relationships. So why can't they stay away from each other?
Family drama- Secrets- Lies- Hot times in Pairs here we come.
So I was still as ecstatic after reading it!
I liked Perfect Catch; I felt it was an edgy sports romance, a fast-paced, easy read, had this awesomeness finished in one sitting! I liked most of the characters, especially Noah- he was IMO a brilliant Alpha H, Sophie eh- she drove me a bit nuts, but it was not enough that I didn't want to root for them both!
Sexy- flirtatious, dramatic plot, with a very sweet HEA.
I really hope to see a book about Uma and Zach!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book
June 6, 2018
This book was interesting, but lacked finesse and details. The whole parents' plot and the brothers' plot moved too quickly. There would have been enough material to make it last a lot longer, and to really expand on this. How Noah rekindled with his brothers, how his brothers felt through it. The whole frigid idea was really funny and different. I liked that a woman in a romance novel is not always ready to go, although she does get too quickly ready to go with Noah, if you know what I mean.. These things are rare in real life, so to have 3 women like that in the same family is hard to believe. It would have been nice to see Noah and Sophie work longer to fix her issues. I would have added depth if there were more importance had been given to the reason for her dislike of sex. It just seems to me like the whole series is full of unfinished business.. Plus, the 3rd novel should be longer than the others, to finish the previous plot twists.. It wasn't a bad read, I was just expecting more and better woven closure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2018
3ème tome des frères D’Arcy, on rencontre enfin Noé, le frère le plus "secret", celui dont on entend parler depuis le tome 1 mais qui est un genre de fantôme ;-)
Il vit modestement à Paris avec son chien, joue au water polo, porte le nom de jeune fille de sa mère, il a coupé les ponts avec ses 2 frères.
Il rencontre Sophie, américaine, en stage dans une agence immobilière pour 6 mois.
Elle a de gros problèmes relationnels avec les hommes... Sophie est métisse, c’est assez rare dans les romances pour être signalé.
Charmante histoire d’amour avec une date de fin programmée!
Mais en est on certain?
Beaucoup de personnages secondaires, on retrouve les frères D’Arcy et leurs moitiés, j’adore le rôle de Diane dans ce tome, elle est toujours aussi adorable.
J’ai passé un très bon moment avec cette fratrie. Mon couple chouchou reste celui du tome 1.
Je lirai avec plaisir Un cowboy dans la grotte, histoire liée aux frères D’arcy.
Il vit modestement à Paris avec son chien, joue au water polo, porte le nom de jeune fille de sa mère, il a coupé les ponts avec ses 2 frères.
Il rencontre Sophie, américaine, en stage dans une agence immobilière pour 6 mois.
Elle a de gros problèmes relationnels avec les hommes... Sophie est métisse, c’est assez rare dans les romances pour être signalé.
Charmante histoire d’amour avec une date de fin programmée!
Mais en est on certain?
Beaucoup de personnages secondaires, on retrouve les frères D’Arcy et leurs moitiés, j’adore le rôle de Diane dans ce tome, elle est toujours aussi adorable.
J’ai passé un très bon moment avec cette fratrie. Mon couple chouchou reste celui du tome 1.
Je lirai avec plaisir Un cowboy dans la grotte, histoire liée aux frères D’arcy.
September 18, 2017
Another good read from Alix Nichols.
Noah is the estranged baby brother of Sebastian & Raphael. Separated from them at an early age, he's harboured a lot of resentment towards them while living with his mother in Nepal. Now that he's back in Paris, his family hopes he'll come around. While working as a pizza delivery guy and a pro water polo athlete, he's nursing a crush on his newly-discovered landlady, Sophie.
Noah raises confusing feelings in Sophie like arousal, excitement, hope, just to name a few. She just has to decide if her Mr. Right Now could ever become her Mr. Forever.
The family drama on both sides guaranteed the book to be a page-turner.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Noah is the estranged baby brother of Sebastian & Raphael. Separated from them at an early age, he's harboured a lot of resentment towards them while living with his mother in Nepal. Now that he's back in Paris, his family hopes he'll come around. While working as a pizza delivery guy and a pro water polo athlete, he's nursing a crush on his newly-discovered landlady, Sophie.
Noah raises confusing feelings in Sophie like arousal, excitement, hope, just to name a few. She just has to decide if her Mr. Right Now could ever become her Mr. Forever.
The family drama on both sides guaranteed the book to be a page-turner.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 24, 2017
Noah is the goalie of a water polo team, delivers pizza for extra cash and is renting an apartment from Sophie’s dad but he hasn't been upfront about his past. Sophie is in Paris for an internship and is managing her father’s building when Noah has a clogged drain. She goes to fix it and Noah thinks she is an intruder and the sparks ignite. They start to spend time together and get closer however not everyone is happy that they are together and they plot to break them up. Will they be able to overcome the outside interference so that they may have their happy ever after or are they destined to go their separate ways? Loved the chemistry and banter between Noah and Sophie.
July 21, 2021
The relationship was fine. The tension for me as a reader was more Key West vs France than hero/heroine. But this would have gotten a higher ranking except for the hero’s mother not getting what she deserved. She’s also the mother of the prior 2 books’ heroes as well. So this has been building for me as a reader. There was a brief confrontation. Then he gave her his entire monetary inheritance. I just can’t get on board with that. Especially with how manipulative she’d been for his entire life. So 3 instead of 4. We also didn’t get to see the reconciliation with the brothers. What a let down after three books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2020
It's review time 🎧
Warning ⚠️ : sports romance.
Narrator score🎧 ; the Narrator was great Alexander did a great job with the French accent i loved it, and the female narrator was great as well.
Level of steam🔥: the book was kinda hot, they wanted each other from the very beginning. It was a spark.
Level of anxiety and sadness0😱😢: the book isn't sad in the slightest
The book itself📖:it was a very easy going. The sport was kinda new to me, and it was a cute way to learn about it. Overall it was a very sweet story, with not much problems in it.
Warning ⚠️ : sports romance.
Narrator score🎧 ; the Narrator was great Alexander did a great job with the French accent i loved it, and the female narrator was great as well.
Level of steam🔥: the book was kinda hot, they wanted each other from the very beginning. It was a spark.
Level of anxiety and sadness0😱😢: the book isn't sad in the slightest
The book itself📖:it was a very easy going. The sport was kinda new to me, and it was a cute way to learn about it. Overall it was a very sweet story, with not much problems in it.
February 20, 2018
Noah Masson is focused on the upcoming Water Polo Championships, until he gets distracted by an "intruder". Sophie Bander is just as caught off guard as Noah, when she's caught in his kitchen, and he believes she broke in. Sparks fly and hilarious moments ensue. This was another great read by Alix Nichols, who always writes the perfect blend of comedy relief and romance. A wonderful addition to the Darcy Brothers series and my favorite so far!
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