Taken by the Grumpy Player

The Rebel Players #1

by Clarissa McKay

Being a new sports reporter means I absolutely, positively cannot get involved with any of the players.

Especially the star quarterback, who may be a beast on the field, but is an A-class jerk in real life!

He is notoriously grumpy, and only gives one-word answers to all my interview questions.

I’ve worked my whole life to land this job, and I won’t throw it away for some rich, ripped, drop-dead gorgeous man who is trying to bed me.

It’s flattering, sure, but I have PRIDE, thankyouverymuch!

Even though he's starting to go out of his way for me at every opportunity, I will not fall victim to his charms.

Of course, that’s getting harder and harder to do when my job has me interviewing him, hanging out in the team locker room, and even sharing the same hotel with him...

Furthermore, he’s much too old for me.

I haven’t been out of college *that* long, and he’s practically ancient--by pro ball standards, anyway.

So… why did I just sleep with him?

◆ ◆ ◆

Taken by the Grumpy Player is a standalone sports romance novel with no cliffhangers, no cheating, and a guaranteed HEA!

Genres: Sports Romance, Football, Sports

188 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 14, 2023

About the author

Download my free book "Forbidden Captain" here:

https://BookHip.com/DCPCHSN

"Forbidden Captain" is a brother's best friend sports romance and standalone companion book to "Tuck Me In", the first book in the San Francisco Stingers series.

***

About Clarissa:

Clarissa McKay writes contemporary romance novels, and her happily-ever-after endings are what keep her sane in this crazy world.

She is a wife, a mom to two young children, and loves getting her bare feet in nature as much as possible.

She credits contemporary romance for keeping the passion alive in her marriage and hopes her fun and steamy love stories inspire more romance in your own life, too. RAWR! ;)

***

*** Sign up for author updates, free books, and more at www.ClarissaMcKay.com ***

- Let's connect on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ClarissaMcKayxo

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Reviews

[Jeanne Jabour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taken By the Grumpy Player by Clarissa McKay is a wonderfully sensuous story about two people well suited to their respective careers, at the top of their game, who find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other despite their past experiences. Willow Burke conducts her first on camera interview of pro QB Reed Maxwell, who is ill-tempered, and not the least bit forthcoming in his responses to her questions. She smiles throughout the interview, extraordinarily happy to have the opportunity to conduct the interview with a professional QB, but he ruins the moment with a comment about her smiling too much. Regardless of his thoughtless remark, neither are capable of taking their eyes off of the other, and their mutual attraction is evident to everyone around them. There are several situations that bring them together and Reed’s desire for Willow grows to the point he cannot get her out of his head. Read this exciting novel for the rest of the details and know that it is a well-written, thoroughly entertaining trope that you won’t put down until you reach the end, and then you will wish it was longer so you did not have to leave their story and move on to another book. The good thing in that this is the first book in Ms. McKay’s new Rebel Player series, so there will be more wonderful stories to come from this terrific author. Read this hot, emotional, sensual story about the power of attraction that can lead to love!

[Korkoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

There Was No Hiding When Love Struck -
Willow was scared, but elated when she found herself in front of the camera, instead of in the background where she usually worked. However, what really shook her to the core was the electric current that passed through her whilst she was interviewing Reed after his game. Reed was known for his grumpy indifference during after game interviews, which is why he didn’t understand the why he was shaken to the core, during his interview with Willow.

Whilst they were bound to meet each other because of their jobs, this caused attraction for each other kept increasing, however, the potential for issues in their lives held them back. They soon realised that staying away from each other wasn’t feasible and agreed to embark on a secret relationship. Luckily, Willow received information that gave them the confidence to go public with their relationship, regardless of the consequences and led them onto continue their journey towards a forever happiness.

I was hooked on the story from start to finish, with the intense chemistry between the were amazing characters, that had my fingers itch to turn the pages. This was a captivating story, that made this book a definite must read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Knight Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reed was the quarterback for the Chicago Rebels NFL Team, and he hated doing interviews. The only interviews, he did were the ones his contact required, and those were completed grudgingly. Willow's boss was suddenly called away for a family emergency putting her in the position of doing the post-game interviews. You guessed it, her first interview was to be with the grumpy Reed Maxwell. Even though, they won, he did not crack a smile, he answered with mostly one word, and he told her she smiled to much not a great start for her first professional interview. What she did not know was, she had gotten under his skin leaving an impression. He noticed his attitude did not make her flinch like most. He realized the sparkle in her eyes and the smile was for genuine love of the game and her job which he decided to apologize for his actions. She told him he would have to prove he met his words with actions. Neither could forget the other, but Willow refused to be seen privately with Reed, because she was afraid her career would suffer. An interesting story of career oriented high profile individuals caring more about public opinion than themselves.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dawnmarie Burke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful age-gap off-limits sports romance featuring Reed and Willow. Willow just got promoted to be the reporter for the Rebels her first on camera interview is of Reed the team's QB. Reed is grumpy and non-committal when Willow is interviewing him but Willow is a professional she maintains her composure and keeps smiling throughout the interview until Reed makes a snide comment about her smiling too much. During the interview even when he was being rude they both didn't take their eyes off of each other they're attracted to each other and everyone around them can see the sparks fly. Willow worked hard for her career and doesn't want to give it up or for anyone to think less of her if she dated a player. Reed can't get Willow out of his mind and they finally kiss then they both get nervous and back off again. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this wonderful age-gap off-limits sports romance to see what happens. I would recommend reading this book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taken by the Grumpy Player held my interest from the first page to the last. This is Willow and Reed's story and it is told by them in alternating chapters but the chapters didn't state who was speaking - except in the Table of Contents. He's a pro football player and she's a TV sports journalist whose always present doing interviews and trying to make a name for herself, without any scandal! Their interactions definitely left me wanting more as it slowly built but sometimes in inappropriate places.

The story is fast-paced with a few twists and turns as they try to fight their attraction until they finally give in. The story was steamy but not over the top. There are lots of football players and those who are Reed's friends are prominent. Her best friends are part of the storyline as well. There are secrets as well as revelations. The story has nice closure with the epilogue that takes place a few months after the story ends. I can't wait for the others to get their stories told too!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clarissa McKay’s books have just the right amount of heart, romance, and undeniable attraction to grab the reader’s attention and keep you reading throughout the book. Her main characters are easy to relate to and like. She takes the time to develop her characters and secondary characters so that her stories are about real relationships, not just two people jumping on physical attraction.
Aloof NFL quarterback Reed Maxwell is short on words with the press until beautiful, smart, and confident Willow Burke interviews him as her first on-screen assignment. Needless to say, sparks fly, and they can’t deny their attraction both intellectually and physically. Conflicted with the fear that her career will be damaged by getting involved with a player, Willow tries to fight her feelings.
It is a fun and entertaining book that I recommend. I’m looking forward to the next books in this new series! I received a free ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Maz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very sweet and hot sports romance. Age Gap, forbidden and Enemies to Lovers Trope.

Reed is at top of his game but hates interviews. He is very grumpy.

Willow has been dreaming of being the lead sports reporter. When by chance she has been asked to step up she is ecstatic,Only to be dampened when she sees Reed as her 1st interview.

As expected he was grumpy but seemed to be rude after the interview too..

That was because of the affect she hasld on him and he didn't like it.
They can't act on their feelings as she could lose her job and he doesn't do relationships or people that's not his friends or family..

I really enjoyed their interactions and the witty banter. Reed really does try hard to redeem himself but Willow wants her career more.

Read this story and watch how they grow as character and how they develop into their relationship. It's a very slow burn but so hot once they connect.

Great easy read that was very entertaining.

[Noreen Hussain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first book in the rebel players series by Clarissa.
It is Reed and Willow's forbidden romance.
Reed is the quarterback and one of the captain's of their team and he does not like journalists and hates giving interviews.He never smiles and comes across as grumpy.
Willow is a sports journalist and has taken over from her mentor temporarily and is doing the interviews with the team.
Her first interview does not go well with Reed as he is his usual grumpy self and is also rude to her.
There is a spark between them Willow knows not to act on it as it's not proffessional and she could lose her job. Reed apologises to her for their first meeting and they start to get closer and give into their attraction.
An easy enjoyable read with lots of team mate and locker banter,plenty of steam,humour,friendships and a happily ever after.
Cannot wait for lots more books in this series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Liz Maxwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taken by the Grumpy Player is the story of Willow and Reed. Willow is the assistant to the sports journalist, Vivian, and Reed is a football player. Willow knows who Reed is through the interviews she has watched, but Reed has no idea who Willow is. When an emergency comes up Vivian has to step away, Willow becomes the interim head journalist. The new job has her directly interviewing players on the team. On of her first interviews is with none other than Reed himself. During the interview all of her previous conclusions of Reed became true. He had no idea who she was and didn’t hold back with his dismay about interviews. He is really rude and insults her so much that she wants to avoid him no matter what. He realizes after a while that he has feelings towards her, but doesn’t know what to do about it. Things happen which makes this a hilarious story with banter, flirting, arguments and much more. This story was great and I definitely look forward to more. 😊❤️

[Ally Doby (Schleicher) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Read!

This is book one of this series, told in dual first person POV, and leaves you with a HEA. This was a great start to the series, and I can’t wait to see the other players get their HEA.

I loved Willow and Reed. I loved that she got her big break to be on the air and further her career as a sports reporter. I love that Reed was the grumpy football player who despised interviews and didn’t open up to anyone. I love that Willow intrigued him enough to start opening up to her.

I loved the side characters as well, they really helped to bring this story together. I’m hoping they get their own stories soon and we get to see more of Willow and Reed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. These words and opinions are my own.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

The slow burn is scorching hot!!

Willow has been given the chance to make a name for herself as the lead sport journalist, falling for the QB of the Rebels is the last thing she should be thinking about. The first interview she has is with no other Reed, the man famous for his one word. It part of his contract to interview with them but when he sees Willow for the first time, all that goes out the window.

The insta attraction is visible to anyone that sees them together that even Reed’s mom notices it on TV. The know it’s trouble for their career but the pull is too strong to ignore and when they give in to one another, the flames are glowing so very bright.

Sports romance at it’s best.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Taken by the Grumpy Player: age-gap off-limits football sports romance Book 1 of The Rebel Players. Willow just got a sudden promotion to be the reporter for the Rebels. That means interviewing star players and Reed is the biggest star and the grumpiest. But there is something there, there is a connection between Willow and Reed. Willow isn’t willing to give up her career and she’s afraid it would be tarnished when dating a player. What they really need to figure out is this a real relationship or is this just a hookup? This was a great story! I loved the characters and I’m hoping there are more stories in the future. It had a great storyline that was easy to follow. I would definitely recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Harriet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great and easy read, fun, romantic, steamy and an all round good time.

Willow is a 24 year old sports journalist, who has recently been promoted, Infront of the cameras now she is getting to interview the stars of the NFL and is loving it, everyone is great - except for Reed, older (34) intense, broody, super hot but monotone in his answers, less than engaging in front of the camera and with a clear hatred for press they don't have the best of starts.

Loved this, great tension, loved the progression of these two relationship and dual perspective. A fun read with a sweet HEA and all the grumpy/ sunshine vibes you could ever want.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vilma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow Cole has her dream job handed to her when she least expects it when the head sportscaster suddenly leaves the stadium. Willow’s interview with star QB Reed Maxwell doesn’t go as she plans because he’s grumpy and keeps his side of the interview impersonal and monosyllabic. Yet, there is a physical draw between them.

As they navigate their careers and Willow maintaining her job, they engage in a secret relationship. Over time and as Willow secures her job replacing the previous sportscaster, she allows Reed to out their relationship.

I loved the chemistry between Reed and Willow, but I was definitely waiting for the other shoe to drop; instead they ad a fairly smooth, although secret romance until allowing the world to witness their relationship.

[Aleksandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story of two people who are very invested into their careers and on top of their game, but suddenly find themselves drawn to each other despite those careers and the hurdles their attraction to each other will bring. Her first on camera interview is with him, and he’s known to be a very difficult athlete to interview as he’s not very forthcoming in his responses to questions. As they can’t take their eyes off of the other, their mutual attraction becomes evident to everyone around them. This is a very exciting novel, it’s well-written, the premise is entertaining and you won’t be able to put down the book until you reach the end. I loved it and I recommend it wholeheartedly!

[Caroline Burt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say... Clarissa has done it again!!! I couldn't put it down. Willow is an up and coming head journalist for the NFL. That's when she meets Reed the star quarterback for Rebels, he's known as being a bit of a grump and doesn't say a lot during the interviews. But all that changes with Willow. There's an instant attraction between them and the chemistry is electric. The only problem is that them being together has the potential to destroy her career. But is it enough to keep them away from their connection and desire? Expect lots of friendship, fun, laughter, passion and more throughout this completely captivating page turner! Enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikenya Rodney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow gets a temporary promotion to lead reporter for the sports team. Her first interview is with Reed Maxwell, the quarterback who hates interviews. Reed is pretty rude to willow but she stands her ground. This intrigues Reed and he regrets being grumpy with willow. He apologizes but Willow doesn’t accept so easily. She makes Reed work to get into her good graces.

Willow and Reed start dating in secret. However, they realize how much they are missing out on by being in the shadows. Willow realizes that it’s no one’s business who she dates. great book.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Potter · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 star awesomeness yet again from Clarissa McKay

Willow & Reed's is outstanding. Clarissa McKay has delivered another piece of fantastic sports romance. The author's style of writing completely immerses the reader right from the start & keeps you hooked until you have finished. Reed is a grumpy Quarterback who only gives the bare minimum in interviews which makes Willow's job as a reporter hard. Can Willow remain professional despite the burning attraction developing between them? Will it be hearts broken or a HEA?.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Thisbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reed is the starquarterback and Willow a sport journalist who is new to her job. Meeting for the first time he is grumpy, but then they have to spend more time and he is very charming. He is older than her and they both try to surpress their heat and attraction, she could lose her job, and even after giving in try to deny it, but it is strong.
Willow and Reed are special together and made me feel with them. The story and characters are well written and emotional. It makes me want to read more.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Krissy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review voluntarily. I'm glad I read this before bed as it was such an enjoyable easy to read romance that was fast paced yet had just the right amount of slow burn steam, character development and overall plot. Loved that both Reed and Willow were all in once they decided and there was no unnecessary angst to drag out the story. Reading about their HEA/HFN just put a smile on my face!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Willow & Reed have an instant attraction and their chemistry burned the pages in my Kindle ;)
Despite the age gap, and despite the conflict Willow feels because of her job, and despite Reed being a high profile sports star who likes his privacy, they eventually manage to develop a relationship out of the public eye. To find out how they resolve the issues with work and publicity and get their HEA, you'll have to read the book - you won't regret it!


I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anika · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Taken by the Grumpy Player" by Clarissa McKay is a fun and engaging romance novel that will leave readers feeling satisfied and happy. The story follows the romance between Willow and Reed.
The chemistry between Willow and Reed is palpable, and readers will find themselves rooting for them to overcome the obstacles in their path.

The characters are well-developed, the plot is engaging, and the romance is steamy and satisfying. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun and lighthearted read.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trina Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a great book . He was a charming football play and she was a beautiful girl.He was attracted to her as she was towards him. It was a steamy hot romance between then and every time she walk by him she smile and he does the same to. It was a page turner and action packed story.I wanted know what else was going to happen between them two .They was attracted to each other it melt heart . These was so amazing characters in this story. Did they lived happily ever after or not? You have to read it for your self. I love the ending of this book.

[Rhonda Howell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow is a young reporter who gets the chance of a lifetime when the current sports reporter walks out of the stadium leaving her to interview the hot quarterback. Reed is a reserved talker and doesn't say much to her during the interview. There are sparks flying between the two but with her having the new job she doesn't want to risk it. Follow along as their romance blossoms and they eventually share it with the world.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bernie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow is keen to maintain a professional role and reputation as a sports journalist. Her pleasant attitude makes her popular with the Rebels players. Reed is a few years older, NFL QB who hates interviews and his disposition can be off putting. Certainly met his match, but as she gets deeper under his skin, the attraction between them cannot be denied. Short story but well written and likeable characters, including those around this couple.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willow has her dream job as a sports reporter for the Rebels Pro Football team. Reed is the star quarterback for the Rebels. He hates doing interviews and only gives short curt answers. He is a very grumpy man. Willow wants to keep her mind on the job but there is an attraction between her and Reed even though he is a jerk. The chemistry between Reed and Willow is flammable. The book is well written and the characters are great. Will Reed and Willow get a happy ever after?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Booksprout.

[BP34 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book that was a fun read and hard to put down. It won't take you long to get emotionally involved with Willow and Reed. He's a star quarterback for an NFL team and the grump you love. Willow's fresh out of college and he's off limits for many reasons. From a secret relationship to a full-blown out in the open relationship, you'll love it all. Their chemistry is off the charts, and they are destined for each other. No cliffhanger, no cheating and a happy ending. I read a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow is an assistant sports reporter following a football team. She is thrown into interviews when Vivian, the head reporter, needs to leave for a family emergency. She interviews Reed and he is very rude to her throughout the whole encounter. Later, though, he confesses to his friends that he really screwed up and that he is really interested in her. Their advice? Apologize and make sure she knows that you mean it. He does, but she doesn't make it easy: he has to prove it. Soon, they are kissing and more! But will they be able to have their separate careers and each other too?

[Mindy Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Book 1 in the Rebel Players Series by this author. It is an age gap, off limits, sports romance between sports reporter Willow and star quarterback Reed. These likeable characters, the strong connection, the combustible chemistry, and the unique plot make for an entertaining read. It is a love story with some steam, drama, humor, twists and turns, and engaging secondary characters to keep the reader interested. A sweet, emotional romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first in a new series, and this is Reed and Willow’s story. Willow is a new sport reported who is tasked with interviewing the player, and the first up is Reed. Reed is a star quarterback, but he is grumpy, notorious, rude, insulting, and is difficult to interview with his one-word answers. This is a well written slow burn, with humor, witty banter, romance, emotions, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.