Fox

The Player #4

by Nana Malone

Money, power, prestige…washout. Fox Coulter is…the Player.

There is no Plan B for Fox. All he has is hockey. All he’s ever had is hockey. That and his best friend, Sasha. So when she’s up rent creek with no roommate, it’s Fox to the rescue. But, with the opportunity of a lifetime on the line will his hotter-than-sin-best friend be more of a distraction than his lucky charm?

Sasha Tenison believes everyone should have rules. Rules like:

• Don’t ogle your best friend while he works out shirtless. It doesn’t matter how many muscles or tattoos he has.

• Don’t fantasize about what he tastes like, even if it’s been years since anyone’s kissed you.

• Don’t sleep with your best friend just because he’s hot, sexy, and the only one to ever believe in you.

Breaking even one of these rules will ruin everything. But one toe curling kiss from Fox and she’s ready to change her name to Rule Breaker.

Genres: Sports, Romance, Friends To Lovers, Contemporary, Sports Romance, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook

206 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 11, 2017

About the author

Wall Street Journal & USA Today Bestselling author, Nana Malone writes Sexy Feel-Good Romance and loves of all things romance and adventure.

That love started with a tattered romantic suspense she "borrowed" from her cousin. It was a sultry summer afternoon in Ghana, and Nana was a precocious thirteen. She's been in love with kick butt heroines ever since. With her overactive imagination, and channeling her inner Buffy, it was only a matter a time before she started creating her own characters.

Reviews

[Syndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fox is a standard sport romance. Although sport aspect has minimum exposure in the story. It is more friend to lover trope.

As usual, Miss Malone putting her signature hotness into the story. It is very short and straight forward romance. The conversation, the banter, the plot is very standard.
Wishing to have much more serious plot/ story line.

3 stars

[Steph's Romance Book Talk · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars / 3.5 Steam Fans

Video review available in Week 12: Mar 21 – Mar 27, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.

For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.

[Alaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fox is the fourth installment of The Player Series. Even though I dove into this out of order, I quite liked getting to know Fox and Sasha. It was definitely a best friends to lover's kind of romance, but it also felt like a second chance too. Mostly because Sasha needed someone much better than her ex-boyfriend.

After they dipper their toes past the friend zone, things get heated up between them pretty quickly. Their chemistry after was a bit awkward but that's because their feelings grew in a different way. They started to see each other in a different light, and I really liked the romantic tension between them.

Of course, the drama came and went between these two. Luckily, things didn't explode into an overdramatic thing. Or maybe that's just how I see it. In the end, I definitely enjoyed these two falling in love and I will have to dive into the rest of series whenever I can.

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. We have two best friends who end up being more than friends. I loved that both leads had growth to do within themselves in order for the relationship to ultimately work. They were on level emotional fields. It was fun to read, there was excellent banter and it had its share of sexy sexy :) Overall, a good quick read. I'm actually looking forward to starting at the beginning and working my way forward with the series.

Copy provided by the author for early review

[Lindsey Domokur · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute friends to lovers romance. It was my first Nana Malone, and while I love sports romance, I don't love the groupie situation that comes with that. This did a good job glossing over some things, but it was still there in the background. I did enjoy the way that both of them loved each other for so long and how they knew right away they were in it for the long haul. It was a cute, short, low angst romance.

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick simple and pretty much straight talk all the way, not quite. They both had some seated emotions for the other, but neither of them acted on them for years. Now all that was going to change. It took some time and patience on both their parts but they finally find each other. Even with it starting out as something in the way of just a friend helping out another friend. This was one of those friends-to-lovers that would have you turning pages. Fox and Sasha have had a friendship that had grown over the years. Neither willing to jeopardize their friendship for something that had no guarantees. Fox was likable even when he was so down on himself. With Sasha he could be more of himself and find that something that was missing from when he communicated with family. He seemed to be more real and open around Sasha. Even when their misunderstanding took them apart for a brief time.

I felt this one was more focused on the couple at hand and not the family interference. I enjoyed this one most of all. In earlier stories I was interested in Fox but not overwhelmed to have to have his story of love. I am very happy that I read this one. It has been by far the sweeter of the four.

York and Odom gave me the underlying emotion, compassion, passion, and the intricacies of their relationship. Loved the pacing, tone, and diction.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It wasn't a long read but seemed just about right. I loved the characters and the maturity level seemed about right. Seriously, their families were close and they were best friends. I did think Fox did feel a lot of pressure ( more than most players) with the super athletes in his family. It's a special "key" that actually helps take the pressure to a "distracted" level and you'll enjoy getting it.
Oh, the road is a little bumpy but I'll say that as an avid reader of this genre I appreciate that Sasha didn't run away...the author has her talking it through with Echo and Jen or actually talking it through with Fox. What a pleasant concept!! I prefer strong female leads and Sasha, although not yet there, is a prime strong female lead. Thanks, Ms. Malone.

[Ash P Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet romantic story of my favourite trope - Best friends to lovers. It also addresses the psychological pressure athletes endure and complacency in relationships that just plain leads to bad relationship choices. Both Fox and Sasha eventually overcome their insecurities to form a binding and lasting relationship.

ARC provided by the author for voluntary review consideration.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review: Fox (The Player) by Nana Malone

Outsiders bonded in friendship, learn that it can be fun to break a few rules. Nana Malone can steal your heart, while setting your blood on fire. Her sensual brand of moving stories keep a reader on their toes and feening for more of that voodoo she does so well. Fox is a mad man on the ice. He plays hard, works harder and not afraid of a little vice. Sasha is his haven from the storm. She keeps his feet firmly in place, helping him through some of his darkest days. What happens when she needs his help? He just may end up losing his heart. A sweet treat for the soul.

[Shiro Ngoci · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sports Romance

2🌶️

Fox being hard on himself is something that I can relate with especially in life when you're still battling your fears.

Their story was okay.

I prefer Nana's spy / royal genres better

[Diane · Rating 2 out of 5]

okay

An okay read that starts well, characters are younger than I like to read but was okay. Feel the end fell a bit flat as it didn’t address some issues within the story. That said okay but not a keeper.

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick simple and pretty much straight talk all the way. This was one of those friends-to-lovers that would have you turning pages. Fox and Sasha have had a friendship that has grown over the years. Each in their on way desiring the other. Neither willing to jeopardize their friendship for something that had no guarantees. I find that like Fox. Its something about his interactions with Sasha that makes me fell happy.

I felt this one was more focused on the couple at hand and not the family interference. I enjoyed this one most of all. In earlier stories I was interested in Fox but not overwhelmed to have to have his story of love. I am very happy that I read this one. It has been by far the sweeter of the four.

[Regan Y. · Rating 2 out of 5]

All of these stories are good... but they aren't great. There's too much contradiction and repetition.

And the blow up fight was a bit much... i understand it's shocking but when you have your own secrets, don't point fingers. I feel like this drama was just added to add a conflict and it wasn't realistic. Like how was he suppose to know that she did the story and send the pictures to get back at her when that all happened BEFORE the story broke.

Poor writing.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nana Malone, why did I not know about this author before? I have skimmed over her books in the audible list, but never listened to one. I am so glad I started with Fox, it was a fun friends to lovers listen and warmed my heart. This is the fourth in the series, but my first listen. I do think listening to the others would give you a good family foundation background, but I didn't feel that I missed anything by not listening to the books in order. This book brings us Fox Coulter, the hockey player of the ever rich and famous Coulter family. He is kind of the black sheep, he doesn't follow in the footsteps of the family, deciding college wasn't for him and goes straight to hockey from high school. The rejection time after time of not getting into the pros is taking a toll on him, but we do have his best friend Sasha to help him through these hard times. Sasha is a journalist, and is an intern for the local news station. The two have incredible chemistry, but this book has some twists that keep you guessing. I know there was one near the end of the book that I just didn't know how it was going to play out. Those are the best kind of plots, you think you know how it will work out, and then BAM..a wrench is thrown in.

These two characters are both very strong and very weak. I love that they are able to use their strength and help the other out of situations that only each other could understand and help with. The passion and friendship is an incredibly strong bond. Fox's brothers and sister also were the supporting cast for the most part, and I love the relationship they have with each other. You can tell they always have each other's backs. The most interesting part of the book for me was the illness that Nana Malone brings out in Fox's father. It's an autoimmune disease. I love and appreciate when an author takes a real life issue and includes it in a story line. I know it's not the forefront story, but it does bring out how something like an autoimmune can take down a vibrant person and the need for time and rest is necessary. Kudos!

Traci Odom and Sebastian York are the narrators of this dual performance. They can do no wrong, both are well seasoned and perfect for contemporary romance.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in this series, but can be read as a standalone. It is a quick best friends to lovers read and I really enjoyed it. This is Fox and Sasha’s story.

Fox is a hockey player trying to make it to the NHL. He comes from a lineage of professional athletes and has struggled with self induced pressure. This has caused him to remain in the minors waiting for his chance to get called up. He is basically at his last opportunity before he has to give up on his NHL goalie dream. His best friend , Sasha, has always been there for him supporting him through every single moment without judgement.

Sasha is in grad school trying to get her big break into journalism. She is focused on her current project that could not only give her a good grade, but give her the big break she needs at the station she is interning at. A recent breakup with a jerk of a boyfriend causes her to need a roommate in order to afford to stay in her place. Her best friend, Fox, is more than willing to step in and help her out.

These two avoided any romantic encounters for years. Sasha has loved Fox since they were teens, but was always afraid to cross the best friends line. One evening, a killer kiss and some honesty with each changes it all. They struggle through a few minor bumps, but these two are meant to be together. The story is good and flows easily, the secondary characters are good and there is plenty of steamy time in this short story. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hockey, the best sport alive. Romance, my favorite genre. Put the two together and it is always a one click for me. Why I have not found Nana Malone before this, just baffles me. She brings such life to the reality of being pro. It is never an easy ride to the top, no matter who your family is and Fox finds himself in the middle of the struggle to get to the Pros. His best friend supports him through all his ups and downs. Sasha is a journalist and has been given the task of writing about the struggles of hockey. Will she use Fox as her subject? Will she break their trust? This is one book that you must read to find out. Take the ride along with Sasha and Fox because it is full of twists turns and surprising outcomes.

Sebastian York and Traci Odom are a perfect narrating team. They both bring this book to life. They compliment each other. Their narration enhanced the experience of this story.

[Susan Destefano cavallo zimmerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a delightful conclusion to a family of sports stars. Fox and Sasha have always been best friends, both crushing on the other more than either realized and being the rock the other needs. Fox always felt he's never been good enough but Sasha has been there to rally him in those dark times and he's been there for her when she dumps another loser. One toe curling kiss changes things for them, and one drunken night gives them the courage to go where they really want to go. A hot, sexy, romantic read that Ms. Malone delivers again and again!

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love friends-to-lovers. Love roommates-to-lovers. This book was a win-win for me. There wasn’t much of the family at large in this one, which was a nice break. And the black moment was actually a real problem for once, which I appreciated. Fox is great. And I just love all the heroines in this series. Sasha is a dedicated, hard worker. The two of them are very fun together. Another entertaining read.

[Kelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, especially some of the intimate scenes of Fox and Sasha, the morning after, coming immediately to mind. I'm a sucker for a good friends-to-lovers and in some ways this book hit the ball out of the park with but in others it just didn't seem to ring very true.
overall a fast sexy read. I'd definitely read her again.

[Linda Kam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow Brilliant

Yet again another brilliant book in this Players series.
Loving this series.
Loved Fox and Sasha. Loved the storyline and the connection between them both.
I loved that they had been best friends for forever and that they finally got their HEA together.
Can't wait to read on now with the next installment.

[Conna N Condon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this author’s writing style! Story didn’t match the description I was given. This is part of a series, but relatively independent. He comes from an impressive and intimidating family that impacts his confidence. She is his best friend and breaking up with her lousy lover boyfriend. She can’t afford rent alone, so he moves in platonic – at first. This is a friends to lovers story mixed with each of them coming into their best selfs.

[Jeanette Durant · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good friend's to lovers sports romance story.

Fox and Sasha have been best friends since they were little, but have never acted on their attraction.

There was lots of steam and spice in this romance with some bumps along the way.

[Kathy Bolar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book. I loved Fox’s determination to make it on his own away from his family’s influence. Sasha was also a writer looking for a break. However, her break might come at Fox’s expense. Loved the story and chemistry.

[V. Rena · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay read

It was okay. It gave a good understanding and description of Fox but not a clear description of Sasha, and I like to know each character. Some of it is predictable as they navigate from best friends to more.

[Meluvbooks2]

Absolutely loved it

I enjoyed Fox and Sasha book. Best friends turned into something more. Beautifully written. Loved all the characters. I enjoy this authors. Although, this is my first read in the series. Will go back and read book 1.

[Em Wood · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️

Blurb hooked me, but the characters felt really immature and story line was a tad boring. Missed opportunities. Character depth and connection was lacking too IMO.
Easy short read, but won’t continue with series.

[Avid Reader · Rating 1 out of 5]

Just boring, not much of a story and the characters were never developed.

[Amanda Dicicco · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was hot and steamy. But her ex got on my nerves.

[Lais · Rating 3 out of 5]

but that almost nude leaking was.....for What??? for WHAT?

[Fos · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audiobook

Sasha and Fox