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Changing the Play
Weston Hale—It’s never fun to get called to the coach’s office, especially not when it’s with the threat of losing your scholarship if you don’t get your history grade up. I thought it would be easy enough to go to the professor and ask for extra credit. What I wasn’t expecting was Darcy Sinclair—the professor’s son and my new tutor. He’s smart and sarcastic, and truthfully? Kind of gorgeous when he’s going on about the French Revolution. Objectively speaking, of course. When I start teaching him football, things… change. I’ve never been attracted to a man before, but I’m falling fast. I can only hope he’s falling with me.
Darcy Sinclair—Tutoring is what I do. It’s what I’m good at. Plus, it’s great practice for when I get my doctorate and become a history professor like my dad. Weston Hale is no different from anyone else. Sure, he’s wildly attractive, and he reads classic romance novels, and he’s genuine and deep in a way that totally disarms me, but it’s no big deal. I can do my job without falling for him. Easy. Only, I keep catching him staring at me, and the way he explains football has me entranced, and I’m finding that maybe I won’t have much of a say in the matter. My small crush is growing out of control. I can only hope the fall doesn’t hurt.
Changing The Play is a light-hearted jock/nerd romance with a twist-A classic novel loving quarterback, a sassy, confident nerd, and meddling best friends who almost definitely have something going on on the side.
Darcy Sinclair—Tutoring is what I do. It’s what I’m good at. Plus, it’s great practice for when I get my doctorate and become a history professor like my dad. Weston Hale is no different from anyone else. Sure, he’s wildly attractive, and he reads classic romance novels, and he’s genuine and deep in a way that totally disarms me, but it’s no big deal. I can do my job without falling for him. Easy. Only, I keep catching him staring at me, and the way he explains football has me entranced, and I’m finding that maybe I won’t have much of a say in the matter. My small crush is growing out of control. I can only hope the fall doesn’t hurt.
Changing The Play is a light-hearted jock/nerd romance with a twist-A classic novel loving quarterback, a sassy, confident nerd, and meddling best friends who almost definitely have something going on on the side.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2025
138 people are currently reading
876 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Sloan
8 books80 followersMorgan Sloan lives in the Midwest with her husband and kids, along with an obscene number of chickens. She's a Christmas junkie who can usually be found listening to Michael Bublé's Christmas album (don't judge) and surviving off sheer willpower and the tropical Red Bull (it's the best kind, and she will not be taking questions at this time). She woke up one day with an idea that wouldn't leave her head. So, now, here she is, trying her hand at bringing the people in her brain to life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
June 9, 2025
A nice yet forgettable college kids mm jock/nerd romance, with a strong nb secondary character.
Way too much focus on sex in my opinion.
A quote - love the explanation:
""Pan?" I ask. Good god, I'm gonna need to do some research.
Ben's loud laugh has me rolling my eyes. "Yeah, man. Hearts not parts.""
Why only 3 stars:
-a college professor advising his struggling student to take up tutoring lessons with his son, because the son is really good at explaining concepts and getting across knowledge? Lol.
-Darcy's best friend being all "I'm sure Darcy provoked Marc that's why Darcy got punched in the face" after having already witnessed Marc's homophobic behaviour and name-calling? Uhm..
-kissing with a split lip after someone punched your face a few hours ago? Must feel awesome...
-Darcy being all surprised West would want to give him a blowjob, when only the day before they had kissed intensely post-frotting, post-lapping-up their combined spilled cum?
-West's automatic reaction to seeing the boy he cares for coming home with a split lip because he was punched in the face by a homophobic teammate: storming out, I'm going to kill him!!
This kind of story development got old years ago. Where's the need to sooth his pain, to care for him, to ask him what HE needs? I'm so over these macho men behaving like irrational caricatures.
-also, college students thinking the "cold war" has its name because it was in winter? Sorry but are you kidding me ..
Way too much focus on sex in my opinion.
A quote - love the explanation:
""Pan?" I ask. Good god, I'm gonna need to do some research.
Ben's loud laugh has me rolling my eyes. "Yeah, man. Hearts not parts.""
Why only 3 stars:
-a college professor advising his struggling student to take up tutoring lessons with his son, because the son is really good at explaining concepts and getting across knowledge? Lol.
-Darcy's best friend being all "I'm sure Darcy provoked Marc that's why Darcy got punched in the face" after having already witnessed Marc's homophobic behaviour and name-calling? Uhm..
-kissing with a split lip after someone punched your face a few hours ago? Must feel awesome...
-Darcy being all surprised West would want to give him a blowjob, when only the day before they had kissed intensely post-frotting, post-lapping-up their combined spilled cum?
-West's automatic reaction to seeing the boy he cares for coming home with a split lip because he was punched in the face by a homophobic teammate: storming out, I'm going to kill him!!
This kind of story development got old years ago. Where's the need to sooth his pain, to care for him, to ask him what HE needs? I'm so over these macho men behaving like irrational caricatures.
-also, college students thinking the "cold war" has its name because it was in winter? Sorry but are you kidding me ..
October 17, 2025
5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
some of my absolute favorite tropes—college, jock/nerd, pillow princess—tied up in a low angst bow.
west and darcy are so perfect together. i adored how hard west fell for darcy, and how he really had no second guesses about doing so. i loved darcy's dry wit and slight cynicism, and how he let the "straight boy" break down his walls. i LOVED park, ben, and landon, and cannot wait to see more of them later on...
this was very different from other books this author wrote, but no less swoony and beautiful. if you enjoyed this and are interested in something that will pull on your heart strings, you have to try her mended heart series.
(p.s. it’s so surreal to see a cover i designed chilling on goodreads)
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: ebook
some of my absolute favorite tropes—college, jock/nerd, pillow princess—tied up in a low angst bow.
west and darcy are so perfect together. i adored how hard west fell for darcy, and how he really had no second guesses about doing so. i loved darcy's dry wit and slight cynicism, and how he let the "straight boy" break down his walls. i LOVED park, ben, and landon, and cannot wait to see more of them later on...
this was very different from other books this author wrote, but no less swoony and beautiful. if you enjoyed this and are interested in something that will pull on your heart strings, you have to try her mended heart series.
(p.s. it’s so surreal to see a cover i designed chilling on goodreads)
June 12, 2025
4.5 stars!!
I was not expecting to absolutely love this book but I definitely did.
The characters were so great! I loved both West and Darcy, together and separately. They were honestly so cute. West was DOWN BAD for Darcy. Like sooo bad. I liked how he never questioned it and even though it was new to him he didn’t care at all about what people thought. Him being so protective over Darcy was so cute!!
Their banter was so good!! Like the dialogue was top tier. I also LOVED the writing. It was very….casual. If that makes sense. So easy to read and it was written like how people talk today. No flowery words and nothing was overly described. I think the writing was one of my favorite things about it.
We don’t hear really much on their sexual past. I would have liked to know a tiny bit but neither of them gave off manwhore vibes at all. I loved how from very early on they were all about each other. They didn’t see anyone else.
I would have liked to learn some more about the characters though. Maybe a few more scenes of other things. The majority of this book is spent in West’s apartment. Too many things were told way later on like how West could afford an apartment, what happened to his mom and stuff like that. Things I was wondering most of the book. Also we didn’t see Darcy’s place at all. We know he lives somewhere but we don’t know where and we never visit it in the book.
Kinda bummed that we started to love the secondary characters, Parker and Ben, together and then the author threw in a third in their relationship at the end of the book. I don’t think it was needed at all but that’s just my personal preference.
I would definitely read more from this author.
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
NO VIRGINS OR MANWHORES
BI AWAKENING
HOMOPHOBIA (secondary character)
HEA (married and multiple epilogues)
I was not expecting to absolutely love this book but I definitely did.
The characters were so great! I loved both West and Darcy, together and separately. They were honestly so cute. West was DOWN BAD for Darcy. Like sooo bad. I liked how he never questioned it and even though it was new to him he didn’t care at all about what people thought. Him being so protective over Darcy was so cute!!
Their banter was so good!! Like the dialogue was top tier. I also LOVED the writing. It was very….casual. If that makes sense. So easy to read and it was written like how people talk today. No flowery words and nothing was overly described. I think the writing was one of my favorite things about it.
We don’t hear really much on their sexual past. I would have liked to know a tiny bit but neither of them gave off manwhore vibes at all. I loved how from very early on they were all about each other. They didn’t see anyone else.
I would have liked to learn some more about the characters though. Maybe a few more scenes of other things. The majority of this book is spent in West’s apartment. Too many things were told way later on like how West could afford an apartment, what happened to his mom and stuff like that. Things I was wondering most of the book. Also we didn’t see Darcy’s place at all. We know he lives somewhere but we don’t know where and we never visit it in the book.
Kinda bummed that we started to love the secondary characters, Parker and Ben, together and then the author threw in a third in their relationship at the end of the book. I don’t think it was needed at all but that’s just my personal preference.
I would definitely read more from this author.
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA
NO THIRD ACT BREAK UP
NO VIRGINS OR MANWHORES
BI AWAKENING
HOMOPHOBIA (secondary character)
HEA (married and multiple epilogues)
June 9, 2025
Tropes: tutor/tutee, nerd/nerdy jock
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: edging, multiple orgasms
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: dead mom, domineering/unsupportive father, homophobia, assault, enby rep (minor character)
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither are interested in anyone else
3.75 stars
This was a sweet fluffy read. West is 21 and he is a college quarterback on scholarship. He's always identified as straight. He's a good student, he wants to be a teacher, he doesn't expect to get into the NFL. But he's failing history, no matter how hard he tries. And he's at risk of losing his scholarship. So he talks to his professor and the professor recommends the tutoring services of his son Darcy. Darcy also wants to be a teacher, though he wants to be a professor. Darcy is gay.
When they meet, West is intrigued and drawn to Darcy. It takes him a while to understand that he's feeling attraction, that he wants to be more than just Darcy's friend. But from the moment they meet West just wants to spend more time with him. Darcy is into West too, though he's hesitant because he thinks West is straight and he also doesn't really trust West to be serious about him. Tutoring becomes hanging out all the time, and then they admit their attraction and dive right in to being together. West is a golden retriever, he pleasantly surprises Darcy at every turn, with being willing to be out, defending Darcy against homophobes, trying things sexually, defining their relationship and saying I love you quickly.
There isn't really much conflict, other than West overcoming his academic struggle, realizing his sexuality, and dealing with a minor homophobic bully. And that's fine. West and Darcy were pretty perfect for each other. It was just a sweet fluffy read. It was so sweet how they would cuddle in bed with West reading out loud to Darcy, that was their thing.
One thing that was kind of odd was when Darcy's dad the professor, told West to seek tutoring with Darcy. What he was saying was basically implying that his son is a better teacher than he is, and that many of his students have needed his son's help. Um, dude, your job is to be a teacher and you should try harder to actually reach your students, I know some people need extra help, but you're kind of implying that there is a trend and you're the problem LOL.
About the ending I kind of wish we'd had a moment where West got his history results at the end of the term. They skipped that and it felt weird given the whole book had been working towards him improving his grade. It was nice that we saw them settled into a future together, but the multiple different epilogues different years into the future was kind of choppy and a little unclear with the timeline because it was one year later, then one year later, then 4 years later, then 2 years later. And I was like are those years supposed to be all the number of years post the end of the school term or cumulative (so it's the final one being 8 years post school term), so it was just a bit much.
Some notable moments:
"Benson comes running up to us. “Sorry, man. I tried to let you have your little moment, but I couldn’t wait anymore.” He holds his hand out to Darcy, and irritation burns heavy in my stomach when Darcy shakes his hand. “I’m Ben. You must be the reason West here was looking at everyone’s asses in the locker room like he was trying to figure out complex math equations.”"
"He holds me to him, and I settle into his warmth. I’ve got it bad. “Do you think you can read to me again?” I ask into his throat. He hums. “Of course. Will you lie in my lap again?” Not even a question. “Of course.”"
"“He’s so pretty, right?” West slurs when I get within hearing range. I stop walking, listening as Ben’s gaze finds mine and he smirks. Devon and Levi are looking at West like they’re seeing him with new eyes. “And smart. So smart. His dick,” he starts, holding his hands up like he’s about to measure my dick’s size for them. No. Oh no. I quicken my pace, clamping a hand over his mouth before he can finish the statement."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3.5/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: edging, multiple orgasms
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: dead mom, domineering/unsupportive father, homophobia, assault, enby rep (minor character)
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither are interested in anyone else
3.75 stars
This was a sweet fluffy read. West is 21 and he is a college quarterback on scholarship. He's always identified as straight. He's a good student, he wants to be a teacher, he doesn't expect to get into the NFL. But he's failing history, no matter how hard he tries. And he's at risk of losing his scholarship. So he talks to his professor and the professor recommends the tutoring services of his son Darcy. Darcy also wants to be a teacher, though he wants to be a professor. Darcy is gay.
When they meet, West is intrigued and drawn to Darcy. It takes him a while to understand that he's feeling attraction, that he wants to be more than just Darcy's friend. But from the moment they meet West just wants to spend more time with him. Darcy is into West too, though he's hesitant because he thinks West is straight and he also doesn't really trust West to be serious about him. Tutoring becomes hanging out all the time, and then they admit their attraction and dive right in to being together. West is a golden retriever, he pleasantly surprises Darcy at every turn, with being willing to be out, defending Darcy against homophobes, trying things sexually, defining their relationship and saying I love you quickly.
There isn't really much conflict, other than West overcoming his academic struggle, realizing his sexuality, and dealing with a minor homophobic bully. And that's fine. West and Darcy were pretty perfect for each other. It was just a sweet fluffy read. It was so sweet how they would cuddle in bed with West reading out loud to Darcy, that was their thing.
One thing that was kind of odd was when Darcy's dad the professor, told West to seek tutoring with Darcy. What he was saying was basically implying that his son is a better teacher than he is, and that many of his students have needed his son's help. Um, dude, your job is to be a teacher and you should try harder to actually reach your students, I know some people need extra help, but you're kind of implying that there is a trend and you're the problem LOL.
About the ending I kind of wish we'd had a moment where West got his history results at the end of the term. They skipped that and it felt weird given the whole book had been working towards him improving his grade. It was nice that we saw them settled into a future together, but the multiple different epilogues different years into the future was kind of choppy and a little unclear with the timeline because it was one year later, then one year later, then 4 years later, then 2 years later. And I was like are those years supposed to be all the number of years post the end of the school term or cumulative (so it's the final one being 8 years post school term), so it was just a bit much.
Some notable moments:
"Benson comes running up to us. “Sorry, man. I tried to let you have your little moment, but I couldn’t wait anymore.” He holds his hand out to Darcy, and irritation burns heavy in my stomach when Darcy shakes his hand. “I’m Ben. You must be the reason West here was looking at everyone’s asses in the locker room like he was trying to figure out complex math equations.”"
"He holds me to him, and I settle into his warmth. I’ve got it bad. “Do you think you can read to me again?” I ask into his throat. He hums. “Of course. Will you lie in my lap again?” Not even a question. “Of course.”"
"“He’s so pretty, right?” West slurs when I get within hearing range. I stop walking, listening as Ben’s gaze finds mine and he smirks. Devon and Levi are looking at West like they’re seeing him with new eyes. “And smart. So smart. His dick,” he starts, holding his hands up like he’s about to measure my dick’s size for them. No. Oh no. I quicken my pace, clamping a hand over his mouth before he can finish the statement."
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2025
This book is not bad, but it’s not very good either. It’s just a complete collection of cliches combined with unrealistic people, weird conversations and boring scenes.
If the professor (Darcy’s dad) would have been the love interest for Weston, it would have been a story. But no. It’s his nerdy son who obviously has glasses because he’s smart.
And I guess it’s pretty special for a jock to recognize the name Darcy from a classic novel, but he is an English major, who is great is classes that involve literature but somehow doesn’t understand how history works. It is literally the same thing, only it isn’t made up! And because Darcy explains to West it’s just like football suddenly it all makes sense.
Of course there’s some homophobia too and a dad who wants his son to drop out of college although he doesn’t even pay for it because he thinks he’ll be more successful without education (no parent ever). Made up drama.
So I don’t think anyone should read this unless you haven’t read a lot of romance novels yet. It’s not a bad book. It’s just a waste of my time.
If the professor (Darcy’s dad) would have been the love interest for Weston, it would have been a story. But no. It’s his nerdy son who obviously has glasses because he’s smart.
And I guess it’s pretty special for a jock to recognize the name Darcy from a classic novel, but he is an English major, who is great is classes that involve literature but somehow doesn’t understand how history works. It is literally the same thing, only it isn’t made up! And because Darcy explains to West it’s just like football suddenly it all makes sense.
Of course there’s some homophobia too and a dad who wants his son to drop out of college although he doesn’t even pay for it because he thinks he’ll be more successful without education (no parent ever). Made up drama.
So I don’t think anyone should read this unless you haven’t read a lot of romance novels yet. It’s not a bad book. It’s just a waste of my time.
May 13, 2025
6 STARS! My favorite MM college romance and a forever comfort read.
If you're in the mood for a delightfully queer, swoony, feel-good romance that will leave your heart full and your cheeks sore from smiling and laughing, this book is for you. Centered around West, a classic romance novel loving football quarterback and Darcy, his very sassy, very nerdy history tutor. This college romance is equal parts fun, flirty and emotionally satisfying.
The chemistry between the two guys is undeniable from the start. Watching the seemingly unlikely pair navigate friendship, flirty banter and steamy tension is pure joy. Their connect is deep and natural and so heartfelt that you can't help but root for them. While the story is lower on the angst, it doesn't skimp on character growth. Both MC's evolve beautifully, supporting and challenging each other in equal measure.
The side characters are just as lovable as the mains. Adding warmth, humor and some of their own sassy shenanigans, you'll want to hang with this whole crew long after the book is over. This is one of those romances that hits all the right notes, its fun, sexy and full of heart. Trust me, you WILL fall for these boys.
If you're in the mood for a delightfully queer, swoony, feel-good romance that will leave your heart full and your cheeks sore from smiling and laughing, this book is for you. Centered around West, a classic romance novel loving football quarterback and Darcy, his very sassy, very nerdy history tutor. This college romance is equal parts fun, flirty and emotionally satisfying.
The chemistry between the two guys is undeniable from the start. Watching the seemingly unlikely pair navigate friendship, flirty banter and steamy tension is pure joy. Their connect is deep and natural and so heartfelt that you can't help but root for them. While the story is lower on the angst, it doesn't skimp on character growth. Both MC's evolve beautifully, supporting and challenging each other in equal measure.
The side characters are just as lovable as the mains. Adding warmth, humor and some of their own sassy shenanigans, you'll want to hang with this whole crew long after the book is over. This is one of those romances that hits all the right notes, its fun, sexy and full of heart. Trust me, you WILL fall for these boys.
May 17, 2025
Let’s make one thing very clear: I will forever be a diehard West fan.
I had the absolute pleasure of beta (maybe alpha) reading this book, and I’ll probably keep rereading it for the rest of my days.
There’s just something about a lovable himbo that gets me every time. In this version, there’s so much more beneath the surface, and that makes it chef’s kiss perfection.
West isn’t just a sweet jock. He’s a reader, a classic romance reader at that. He’s fiercely overprotective and DOWN BAD for his tutor. He has a past, a backbone, and a strong set of morals. Basically, he’s one of my favorite characters I’ve ever read.
And then you add Darcy to the mix. Darcy is whip smart, bossy (though he tries to tone it down and fails miserably), and knows exactly how to keep West very, VERY happy. Together, they create a beautiful, cozy, comforting book that will have you smiling the whole way through.
Without giving anything else away, just trust me on this. Go read the book. Thank me later.
I had the absolute pleasure of beta (maybe alpha) reading this book, and I’ll probably keep rereading it for the rest of my days.
There’s just something about a lovable himbo that gets me every time. In this version, there’s so much more beneath the surface, and that makes it chef’s kiss perfection.
West isn’t just a sweet jock. He’s a reader, a classic romance reader at that. He’s fiercely overprotective and DOWN BAD for his tutor. He has a past, a backbone, and a strong set of morals. Basically, he’s one of my favorite characters I’ve ever read.
And then you add Darcy to the mix. Darcy is whip smart, bossy (though he tries to tone it down and fails miserably), and knows exactly how to keep West very, VERY happy. Together, they create a beautiful, cozy, comforting book that will have you smiling the whole way through.
Without giving anything else away, just trust me on this. Go read the book. Thank me later.
June 3, 2025
Hello Morgan Sloan, glad to have stumbled upon your book. It was a pleasure to read🌈✨♥️
All the butterflies, all the giddiness. All the new awareness and arousal. All the awakenings. I'm here for it and smiling .
Enlaced with Pride and Prejudice. Yup, still smiling 😉
Beautifully crafted awakening and first kiss. The drama with perfect measure. And add to all that, the love of teachers and books.
*Favorites
*To read many many times🌈✨♥️🎉🪄
All the butterflies, all the giddiness. All the new awareness and arousal. All the awakenings. I'm here for it and smiling .
Enlaced with Pride and Prejudice. Yup, still smiling 😉
Beautifully crafted awakening and first kiss. The drama with perfect measure. And add to all that, the love of teachers and books.
*Favorites
*To read many many times🌈✨♥️🎉🪄
August 3, 2025
good but unfortunately didn’t hit as jock x nerd
May 17, 2025
6 💫
3 🌶️
Remember as a kid, when you'd get cotton candy, that first bite would melt on your tongue and you'd be left with pure sugary bliss. Okay, that's exactly what reading Darcy and West felt like.
The intimacy between Darcy and West at times made me teary eyed. The quiet moments they shared just cuddling with West quietly reading shot me right in the feels.
The passion that West has for Darcy the true adoration, nothing beats that.
I love when a book not only has main characters that are relatable and loveable but when the side characters are as well. The entire time I was reading I couldn't help but hope that Parker gets their own story. They are a sassy, hot mess enby who takes no shit but has the sweetest vulnerability to them. I couldn't help but fall in love.
Here's to another Morgan Sloan book that will leave me pining for days.
• WHAT TO EXPECT •
🏈Nerd x Jock
📚College Romance
🏈Grumpy/Sunshine
📚Falling for his tutor
🏈Bi-awakening
📚Couples who read romance together stay together
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
3 🌶️
Remember as a kid, when you'd get cotton candy, that first bite would melt on your tongue and you'd be left with pure sugary bliss. Okay, that's exactly what reading Darcy and West felt like.
The intimacy between Darcy and West at times made me teary eyed. The quiet moments they shared just cuddling with West quietly reading shot me right in the feels.
The passion that West has for Darcy the true adoration, nothing beats that.
I love when a book not only has main characters that are relatable and loveable but when the side characters are as well. The entire time I was reading I couldn't help but hope that Parker gets their own story. They are a sassy, hot mess enby who takes no shit but has the sweetest vulnerability to them. I couldn't help but fall in love.
Here's to another Morgan Sloan book that will leave me pining for days.
• WHAT TO EXPECT •
🏈Nerd x Jock
📚College Romance
🏈Grumpy/Sunshine
📚Falling for his tutor
🏈Bi-awakening
📚Couples who read romance together stay together
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
May 27, 2025
West and Darcy… swoon.
I very seldom read the blurb before reading a book, especially when it is an author that I love. So, going in all I knew was that it was jock/nerd, one of my favorite tropes. This book did not disappoint! It is so good. West and Darcy are my new favorite couple.
Morgan took the typical jock/nerd dynamic and put her own spin on it, and let me tell you I. AM. Here. For. It. West is not your typical jock and Darcy is not your typical nerd. These two blew me away. If you’re in the mood for a super sweet story, here you go!
Morgan never ceases to amaze me. Her ability to take a tried and true trope and put her own spin on it to make it unique is awesome. Her characters are all so endearing and original. This is another amazing book!
Oh, and before I go, did you see the cover that Kaye Taz designed? Gorgeous!
I very seldom read the blurb before reading a book, especially when it is an author that I love. So, going in all I knew was that it was jock/nerd, one of my favorite tropes. This book did not disappoint! It is so good. West and Darcy are my new favorite couple.
Morgan took the typical jock/nerd dynamic and put her own spin on it, and let me tell you I. AM. Here. For. It. West is not your typical jock and Darcy is not your typical nerd. These two blew me away. If you’re in the mood for a super sweet story, here you go!
Morgan never ceases to amaze me. Her ability to take a tried and true trope and put her own spin on it to make it unique is awesome. Her characters are all so endearing and original. This is another amazing book!
Oh, and before I go, did you see the cover that Kaye Taz designed? Gorgeous!
May 28, 2025
This book was so sweet. I absolutely fell in love with both Weston and Darcy.
Weston, failing history needs a tutor and when Darcy is assigned he discovers more than just a way to learn history. Weston is smart but just doesn’t get history and when Darcy is willing to learn football to be able to see how he can get him to understand history, Weston agrees to teach him. They became friends and Weston learns some valuable lessons about himself.
Darcy goes to where his students are when tutoring and if that means learning about football well he is going to learn about football and maybe discover that the quarterback isn’t the blockhead that you think he is. He’s smart sweet and a great kisser.
These two are so stinking sweet and great together, love the friend groups and cannot wait for more from this series.
Weston, failing history needs a tutor and when Darcy is assigned he discovers more than just a way to learn history. Weston is smart but just doesn’t get history and when Darcy is willing to learn football to be able to see how he can get him to understand history, Weston agrees to teach him. They became friends and Weston learns some valuable lessons about himself.
Darcy goes to where his students are when tutoring and if that means learning about football well he is going to learn about football and maybe discover that the quarterback isn’t the blockhead that you think he is. He’s smart sweet and a great kisser.
These two are so stinking sweet and great together, love the friend groups and cannot wait for more from this series.
May 19, 2025
I thought Beck was my one and only from Morgan.. enter Weston 😫 (Honestly it's a toss up!)
I was hooked. Truly, hooked.
I was hooked. Truly, hooked.
July 4, 2025
I skimmed through the last few pages because I was so bored I couldn’t keep reading, but I also don’t DNF books, so I guess this is just the curse I have to live with.
I was trying to set a mood before I started reading (something emotionally devastating since it was late at night) but I clearly picked the wrong book. The hurt/comfort wasn’t hurting. I’m tired and really I just want my money back.
The book was fine. Nothing was technically wrong with it, but everything felt shallow and flat. It was just the same situations repeating over and over again.
Now for a special shoutout to the things I really didn’t like:
- Darcy being surprised that West knew his name came from Pride and Prejudice? Let’s be serious here, this is set in modern times, who hasn’t at least heard of Pride and Prejudice?
- One of my biggest pet peeves in books is when characters use current slang. I don’t know why it bothers me so much, but this book was full of it and it made me cringe.
- West said he didn’t want to tell his friends what was going on, but like twenty pages later, his friend asks again and suddenly he just spills everything (what???)
- “There’s so much genuine affection in his eyes” — they’ve hung out twice.
Anyway, I don’t know why I went for a jock/nerd story today, but this reminded me exactly why I don’t usually read them. The whole thing read like a Wattpad fic and I kind of hated it. The main characters were moving so fast I thought they were going to get married halfway through the book when they had literally just met. (They did get married in the end, which is actually INSANE.)
I was trying to set a mood before I started reading (something emotionally devastating since it was late at night) but I clearly picked the wrong book. The hurt/comfort wasn’t hurting. I’m tired and really I just want my money back.
The book was fine. Nothing was technically wrong with it, but everything felt shallow and flat. It was just the same situations repeating over and over again.
Now for a special shoutout to the things I really didn’t like:
- Darcy being surprised that West knew his name came from Pride and Prejudice? Let’s be serious here, this is set in modern times, who hasn’t at least heard of Pride and Prejudice?
- One of my biggest pet peeves in books is when characters use current slang. I don’t know why it bothers me so much, but this book was full of it and it made me cringe.
- West said he didn’t want to tell his friends what was going on, but like twenty pages later, his friend asks again and suddenly he just spills everything (what???)
- “There’s so much genuine affection in his eyes” — they’ve hung out twice.
Anyway, I don’t know why I went for a jock/nerd story today, but this reminded me exactly why I don’t usually read them. The whole thing read like a Wattpad fic and I kind of hated it. The main characters were moving so fast I thought they were going to get married halfway through the book when they had literally just met. (They did get married in the end, which is actually INSANE.)
May 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The love between West and Darcy is everything — sweet, swoony, protective and absolutely unbreakable. I couldn’t put this story down!
Darcy is your classically smart, kind-hearted nerd with dreams of becoming a history professor like his dad 📚. West is the confident, unapologetically himself football player 🏈 who dreams of becoming a high school English teacher ✏️ (and has a soft spot for Pride and Prejudice). While West struggles with a father who doesn’t believe in his dreams, he remains fiercely true to who he is — and that includes falling hard for Darcy ❤️.
When West starts failing history, Darcy is asked by his professor dad to help him out. Sparks fly instantly ✨. Darcy’s worried about his crush on the seemingly straight jock, but little does he know, West is already all in. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their communication? Heart-melting💬. And the protectiveness? Chef’s kiss 🥹.
This book is packed with tropes I adore: • Bi awakening 🌈 • Nerd/jock dynamic • Pillow princess jock (yes, you read that right!) • Dual POV • No third act breakup (!!) • They fall together • A touch of spice 🌶️
Trigger Warning: Includes some homophobic behavior/language from one character (not a major theme, but worth noting).
If you’re looking for a college romance that’s full of heart, humor and heat — Changing the Play it is! Go read it!!
The love between West and Darcy is everything — sweet, swoony, protective and absolutely unbreakable. I couldn’t put this story down!
Darcy is your classically smart, kind-hearted nerd with dreams of becoming a history professor like his dad 📚. West is the confident, unapologetically himself football player 🏈 who dreams of becoming a high school English teacher ✏️ (and has a soft spot for Pride and Prejudice). While West struggles with a father who doesn’t believe in his dreams, he remains fiercely true to who he is — and that includes falling hard for Darcy ❤️.
When West starts failing history, Darcy is asked by his professor dad to help him out. Sparks fly instantly ✨. Darcy’s worried about his crush on the seemingly straight jock, but little does he know, West is already all in. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their communication? Heart-melting💬. And the protectiveness? Chef’s kiss 🥹.
This book is packed with tropes I adore: • Bi awakening 🌈 • Nerd/jock dynamic • Pillow princess jock (yes, you read that right!) • Dual POV • No third act breakup (!!) • They fall together • A touch of spice 🌶️
Trigger Warning: Includes some homophobic behavior/language from one character (not a major theme, but worth noting).
If you’re looking for a college romance that’s full of heart, humor and heat — Changing the Play it is! Go read it!!
May 29, 2025
These two were absolute perfection.
I’m really liking the jock/nerd trope more and more, and this book did it so well. Weston and Darcy had an instant connection, and I was completely sucked in from the very first chapter.
Weston is struggling with his history class and needs to pass it in order to keep his football scholarship and stay on the path to becoming an English teacher. Without the scholarship, college wouldn’t be an option.
That’s where Darcy comes in. He’s the history professor’s son, with a real gift for helping students study more effectively and retain what they’re learning.
I absolutely loved how West embraced his growing feelings for Darcy—nothing could scare him off. He dove in headfirst, and it was beautiful to watch unfold. Their banter had me laughing, and I swear I smiled through the entire book. And West reading to Darcy before bed?! Ughh, the absolute sweetest!
And the side characters in this story?! Amazing. I really hope we get Parker's story next!
“Yes. The dominos. All the things that added up and tipped everything over until we landed right here. We need to get married, Darcy. It would be a shame for the dominos to stop here.”
I’m really liking the jock/nerd trope more and more, and this book did it so well. Weston and Darcy had an instant connection, and I was completely sucked in from the very first chapter.
Weston is struggling with his history class and needs to pass it in order to keep his football scholarship and stay on the path to becoming an English teacher. Without the scholarship, college wouldn’t be an option.
That’s where Darcy comes in. He’s the history professor’s son, with a real gift for helping students study more effectively and retain what they’re learning.
I absolutely loved how West embraced his growing feelings for Darcy—nothing could scare him off. He dove in headfirst, and it was beautiful to watch unfold. Their banter had me laughing, and I swear I smiled through the entire book. And West reading to Darcy before bed?! Ughh, the absolute sweetest!
And the side characters in this story?! Amazing. I really hope we get Parker's story next!
“Yes. The dominos. All the things that added up and tipped everything over until we landed right here. We need to get married, Darcy. It would be a shame for the dominos to stop here.”
May 28, 2025
Changing The Play ARC Review:
Weston and Darcy 🩵
When Weston’s football coach warns him that he needs to raise his grade in history, the only class West struggles with, he asks the professor if there was any extra credit he could do. The professor instead recommends his son, who is also a student at the college, as a tutor. Rapidly, West finds himself drawn to Darcy over the time he spends teaching him football so that Darcy can teach history to West.
Darcy and West are so sweet! Though not without hurdles, their story is delightful and now I just love these two! Darcy tries to keep himself protected from falling for West but thankfully can’t help how he feels, especially with how West puts himself out there for Darcy. West is so down bad for Darcy just as Darcy is for him, but without the protections that Darcy has trouble believing aren’t needed when dealing with West. Seeing them grow closer was such a treat!
I also loved the additional characters such as Darcy and West’s best friends, Parker and Ben. Parker has such a big personality, they are one I am going to be keeping an eye on! Changing The Play was sweet, had emotions that hit, and incredible dialogue that made me laugh and go ‘awhhh’ all at once.
5/5 🌟
Weston and Darcy 🩵
When Weston’s football coach warns him that he needs to raise his grade in history, the only class West struggles with, he asks the professor if there was any extra credit he could do. The professor instead recommends his son, who is also a student at the college, as a tutor. Rapidly, West finds himself drawn to Darcy over the time he spends teaching him football so that Darcy can teach history to West.
Darcy and West are so sweet! Though not without hurdles, their story is delightful and now I just love these two! Darcy tries to keep himself protected from falling for West but thankfully can’t help how he feels, especially with how West puts himself out there for Darcy. West is so down bad for Darcy just as Darcy is for him, but without the protections that Darcy has trouble believing aren’t needed when dealing with West. Seeing them grow closer was such a treat!
I also loved the additional characters such as Darcy and West’s best friends, Parker and Ben. Parker has such a big personality, they are one I am going to be keeping an eye on! Changing The Play was sweet, had emotions that hit, and incredible dialogue that made me laugh and go ‘awhhh’ all at once.
5/5 🌟
December 3, 2025
This has been on my TBR for a bit and I’m so glad I FINALLY got a chance to read it. Darcy and West were so cute!!! Darcy was so adorable and feisty and West was so caring and supportive. I loved how much West appreciated how smart Darcy was. The date nights/hangouts were sweet. Football with cookies and how adorable was it that West read Pride and Prejudice to Darcy as he laid on his lap!? Love it! West was amazing when it came to making his own way in life. Parents are supposed to be supportive of their children and to have one who dismisses and belittles your goals is disheartening. However West pushed himself and was able to achieve his goals despite this. The side characters were great! We love Ben and Parker! We also love indulgent smiles from Landon. This was so fun! 🩵💙🩵
June 5, 2025
I ate this book up! These two were so cute, and I enjoyed the relationship growth of the characters. I love when stereotypes are wrong and the importance of not judging based on the cover of the book (in this case the book and cover were fantastic!)
Outside of a plot that has been done, It was still really well written and Im sure it will get reread many times. The nerdy tutor and jock trope never get old. Adding the brothers best friend and fellow teammate upped the dramatics though.
Won't be disappointed picking this book up.!
Outside of a plot that has been done, It was still really well written and Im sure it will get reread many times. The nerdy tutor and jock trope never get old. Adding the brothers best friend and fellow teammate upped the dramatics though.
Won't be disappointed picking this book up.!
August 5, 2025
I saw a reel on insta recommended this book so I thought why not and when I started I immediately loved the dynamic. It was so cute and fluffy and I SQUEALED and GIGGLED so much during the whole book.
I kept telling my friend about it in the middle of the night and for someone like me who is more into angst I still enjoyed it a lot because it was funny and entertaining.
I was still a bit turned off because of the lack of real plot but overall it was such a fun and quick read so yeah it was pretty good.
I kept telling my friend about it in the middle of the night and for someone like me who is more into angst I still enjoyed it a lot because it was funny and entertaining.
I was still a bit turned off because of the lack of real plot but overall it was such a fun and quick read so yeah it was pretty good.
June 13, 2025
This was so cute!
West and Darcy I loved them.
West is the Quarterback for his college football team, but he’s failing History and accepts an offer to meet a tutor. He meets with Darcy, the son of the professor that teaches the class West is failing at.
Darcy comes up with a way for West to remember the information he studies, by putting the information into football plays. Although Darcy doesn’t know anything about football, West agrees to teach him football and Darcy agrees to teach him history.
Darcy and West are funny, witty, and so smart. I loved their dynamic. They’re cuddly, sweet, bossy, obsessed, and protective.
Definitely recommend!
West and Darcy I loved them.
West is the Quarterback for his college football team, but he’s failing History and accepts an offer to meet a tutor. He meets with Darcy, the son of the professor that teaches the class West is failing at.
Darcy comes up with a way for West to remember the information he studies, by putting the information into football plays. Although Darcy doesn’t know anything about football, West agrees to teach him football and Darcy agrees to teach him history.
Darcy and West are funny, witty, and so smart. I loved their dynamic. They’re cuddly, sweet, bossy, obsessed, and protective.
Definitely recommend!
June 6, 2025
Love this author and all the tropes/themes of the book
I think toward the end it kind of lost their chemistry and all of their conversations started to just seem so out of place with one another that it got awkward to read
I think toward the end it kind of lost their chemistry and all of their conversations started to just seem so out of place with one another that it got awkward to read
June 14, 2025
such a sweet romance 🥰 hit the spot of what i was looking for and i read it in one morning so super bingeable. the epilogue was full of time jumps which sometimes feels like a cop out, but the story definitely wrapped up before it and it really just felt like a montage at the end of a movie.
July 15, 2025
I liked this a lot
I liked that this book was not the stereotypical Nerd/Jock romance. I loved how West was so into his relationship and was such a sweetheart and teddy bear. I lived their dynamic and everything this was such a great read for me.
I liked that this book was not the stereotypical Nerd/Jock romance. I loved how West was so into his relationship and was such a sweetheart and teddy bear. I lived their dynamic and everything this was such a great read for me.
June 19, 2025
It was a bit boring and felt dragged out more than really necessary. Cute relationship and fluff tho
Steam- 3.5/5 strict top/ bottom roles
Steam- 3.5/5 strict top/ bottom roles
October 19, 2025
they were cute but pretty forgettable tbh
November 14, 2025
DNF 33%
I loved the premise of this story. Give me a good old jock/nerd pairing any day and I'm set. But, this one didn't work for me.
I liked each character individually, but I just wasn't a fan of the writing. It lacked depth. It read like the author had a specific outline of what they wanted to include and boxes they wanted to check...which is fine, but, it was missing the heart that you need to tie all of those things together.
There was also nothing unique about the story. I found myself reading a few pages and putting it down. It just didn't hold my interest.
I loved the premise of this story. Give me a good old jock/nerd pairing any day and I'm set. But, this one didn't work for me.
I liked each character individually, but I just wasn't a fan of the writing. It lacked depth. It read like the author had a specific outline of what they wanted to include and boxes they wanted to check...which is fine, but, it was missing the heart that you need to tie all of those things together.
There was also nothing unique about the story. I found myself reading a few pages and putting it down. It just didn't hold my interest.
June 5, 2025
I was hoping for more
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book, but after being at 70% and still not knowing what one of the MMC‘s looked like, I was a tad frustrated. Somehow side characters were given physical descriptions but the person I was supposed to be rooting for, I couldn’t picture because I didn’t have a base. And the other MMC s eyes switched colors? While the story was great, the relationship was there, I was just left wanting. I hope there are future books in this world that feel more complete.
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book, but after being at 70% and still not knowing what one of the MMC‘s looked like, I was a tad frustrated. Somehow side characters were given physical descriptions but the person I was supposed to be rooting for, I couldn’t picture because I didn’t have a base. And the other MMC s eyes switched colors? While the story was great, the relationship was there, I was just left wanting. I hope there are future books in this world that feel more complete.
June 26, 2025
DNF @ 59%
The attraction is nearly instant betwen West and Darcy and I kind of wish it wasn't considering this was supposed to be a sexual awakening story. Yeah, West wasn't fully cognizant of why he liked being around Darcy, but I wish it took a bit longer for him to realize he enjoyed Darcy's presence as opposed to realizing it on their first tutoring session.
Speaking of tutoring sessions, I wanted to see more of those too. We get two about football and one about history before West passes his quiz then they're basically timelapsed (Darcy saying the cookie delivery guy recognized him was shocking considering we hadn't seen enough of the study dates play out)
West's sudden flirtation felt like it came out of left field. There wasn't enough to show that harmless flirting was acceptable in his and Darcy's friendship so it felt very OOC and unjustified.
Same for Darcy asking to watch TV in West's bedroom. He'd just said that he was trying to be respectful and practice self-control. What about asking to stay in your crush's bedroom says "self-control"?
I don't get why West and Darcy didn't talk about West's weird outburst when they went for coffee. Super weird to have a jealous moment (which was very clearly triggered by Darcy saying he'd slept with his friend, Parker) and not have a discussion on what the was causing the friction. Or why they didn't talk about the very obvious almost kiss.
I have zero clue how a coach lets a guy explicitly throwing a match get away with it. Both Parker and West saw it, plus Marcus wasn't even trying to hide his antagonism, so idk what that was. Then Marcus physically assaults Darcy and I was completely unable to suspend disbelief. Blatant physical assault combined with explicit homophobia only works of the setting is conducive to it. Being a college student and assaulting a professor's son doesn't make sense because Marcus has something to lose (aka expulsion). If they were in the deep south and tons of people were openly homophobic, then it'd be believable, as it was, it just felt too obviously villanous for no reason other than plot.
Then there's West's lack of nervousness in what was supposed to be his first sexual experience with a man. What the heck is the point of a sexual awakening if West doesn't show a little bit of apprehension over sexually engaging with a dick for the first time? Yawn.
The final nail in the coffin was Parker. While I was initially pleased to see non-binary representation, I quickly grew to dislike them detest them because they were just an awful character.
Parker was gross, openly hitting on West and commenting on Darcy and West's friendship, assuming they were going to get together. Plus answering Darcy's call while they were having sex with someone. Freaking gross. They did not have the right to assume Darcy's relationship status (particularly when West hadn't indicated he was attracted to men) nor did they have the right to force some weirdass voyeurism with sex calls. Them somehow almost assigning blame to Darcy for getting beat up ("He probably provoked him, didn't he?") had me gagged. Wtf? Be fucking mad that your friend got beat up and call the cops or some shit. Don't try to figure out if Darcy provoked a known homophobe into assaulting him.
TL;DR: Characters don't talk about obvious problems, one-note antagonist, not-so-sexual awakening, and super super annoying side character.
The attraction is nearly instant betwen West and Darcy and I kind of wish it wasn't considering this was supposed to be a sexual awakening story. Yeah, West wasn't fully cognizant of why he liked being around Darcy, but I wish it took a bit longer for him to realize he enjoyed Darcy's presence as opposed to realizing it on their first tutoring session.
Speaking of tutoring sessions, I wanted to see more of those too. We get two about football and one about history before West passes his quiz then they're basically timelapsed (Darcy saying the cookie delivery guy recognized him was shocking considering we hadn't seen enough of the study dates play out)
West's sudden flirtation felt like it came out of left field. There wasn't enough to show that harmless flirting was acceptable in his and Darcy's friendship so it felt very OOC and unjustified.
Same for Darcy asking to watch TV in West's bedroom. He'd just said that he was trying to be respectful and practice self-control. What about asking to stay in your crush's bedroom says "self-control"?
I don't get why West and Darcy didn't talk about West's weird outburst when they went for coffee. Super weird to have a jealous moment (which was very clearly triggered by Darcy saying he'd slept with his friend, Parker) and not have a discussion on what the was causing the friction. Or why they didn't talk about the very obvious almost kiss.
I have zero clue how a coach lets a guy explicitly throwing a match get away with it. Both Parker and West saw it, plus Marcus wasn't even trying to hide his antagonism, so idk what that was. Then Marcus physically assaults Darcy and I was completely unable to suspend disbelief. Blatant physical assault combined with explicit homophobia only works of the setting is conducive to it. Being a college student and assaulting a professor's son doesn't make sense because Marcus has something to lose (aka expulsion). If they were in the deep south and tons of people were openly homophobic, then it'd be believable, as it was, it just felt too obviously villanous for no reason other than plot.
Then there's West's lack of nervousness in what was supposed to be his first sexual experience with a man. What the heck is the point of a sexual awakening if West doesn't show a little bit of apprehension over sexually engaging with a dick for the first time? Yawn.
The final nail in the coffin was Parker. While I was initially pleased to see non-binary representation, I quickly grew to dislike them detest them because they were just an awful character.
Parker was gross, openly hitting on West and commenting on Darcy and West's friendship, assuming they were going to get together. Plus answering Darcy's call while they were having sex with someone. Freaking gross. They did not have the right to assume Darcy's relationship status (particularly when West hadn't indicated he was attracted to men) nor did they have the right to force some weirdass voyeurism with sex calls. Them somehow almost assigning blame to Darcy for getting beat up ("He probably provoked him, didn't he?") had me gagged. Wtf? Be fucking mad that your friend got beat up and call the cops or some shit. Don't try to figure out if Darcy provoked a known homophobe into assaulting him.
TL;DR: Characters don't talk about obvious problems, one-note antagonist, not-so-sexual awakening, and super super annoying side character.
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