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Plays & Penalties #2
Delay of Game
"She wants lessons to end her wallflower era, but the only thing I want to teach her is how to be mine."
Olivia is my best friend and the one person who was there for me when I wanted to quit football freshman year.
We’re just friends. A fact I have to remind myself of every time I see another guy flirt with her.
She thinks I’m a nice guy. A good friend. Her grumpy protective “bestie”.
But what I really want? It would make her blush.
So when she tells me she’s tired of blending into the background and asks me to tutor her, I can’t say no.
Even though I should, because my past means she’s the last person on earth I should touch.
And with everything on the line right now—championships, the draft and our final year—I need her more than ever.
So when it all catches up with me in the worst possible way, I have to face an impossible choice—or risk dragging her down with me.
And this game is one I can't afford to lose.
Olivia is my best friend and the one person who was there for me when I wanted to quit football freshman year.
We’re just friends. A fact I have to remind myself of every time I see another guy flirt with her.
She thinks I’m a nice guy. A good friend. Her grumpy protective “bestie”.
But what I really want? It would make her blush.
So when she tells me she’s tired of blending into the background and asks me to tutor her, I can’t say no.
Even though I should, because my past means she’s the last person on earth I should touch.
And with everything on the line right now—championships, the draft and our final year—I need her more than ever.
So when it all catches up with me in the worst possible way, I have to face an impossible choice—or risk dragging her down with me.
And this game is one I can't afford to lose.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2022
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December 11, 2022
Tropes:
- sports/college romance
- best friends to lovers
- grumpy x sunshine
Friends since high school, Liv & Liam were brought closer together after a tragedy strikes right before their freshman year of college. For the last three years the pair have been each other's anchor, but Liv wants more and is ready to get out of the friendzone.
When her best friends (and roomies) Mac and Wren suggest that she convince Liam to 'tutor' her sexually under the guise of boosting her confidence after being dumped, she goes along with the plan in the hopes that she can either screw him out of her system or get him to realize they belong together for real. What could go wrong?
If yall have read Play Fake, then yall know aaallll about the tension between Liv & Liam, and you know that these two dorks belong together but their ridiculously solid friendship is holding them back. Liam is obviously very easily convinced to go along with Liv's 'tutoring' because he's secretly felt the same way for her for years, but harbors a lot of guilt because of their shared trauma.
Honestly, I thought loved Waylon and Mac, but Liam and Olivia have definitely knocked them down to second place (for now). Seeing these two act on the chemistry that's been sizzling between them for years was everything, but unfortunately reality swept in way too fast--DAMN YOU THIRD AT CONFLICT!!! I loved that Liv did not take Liam's BS excuses and reasons for not being together and was willing to fight for him while he needed to pull his head out of his bum.
I would have loved to see more of their relationship throughout the years in the epilogue, but I loved that ending so much anyway!
- sports/college romance
- best friends to lovers
- grumpy x sunshine
Friends since high school, Liv & Liam were brought closer together after a tragedy strikes right before their freshman year of college. For the last three years the pair have been each other's anchor, but Liv wants more and is ready to get out of the friendzone.
When her best friends (and roomies) Mac and Wren suggest that she convince Liam to 'tutor' her sexually under the guise of boosting her confidence after being dumped, she goes along with the plan in the hopes that she can either screw him out of her system or get him to realize they belong together for real. What could go wrong?
If yall have read Play Fake, then yall know aaallll about the tension between Liv & Liam, and you know that these two dorks belong together but their ridiculously solid friendship is holding them back. Liam is obviously very easily convinced to go along with Liv's 'tutoring' because he's secretly felt the same way for her for years, but harbors a lot of guilt because of their shared trauma.
Honestly, I thought loved Waylon and Mac, but Liam and Olivia have definitely knocked them down to second place (for now). Seeing these two act on the chemistry that's been sizzling between them for years was everything, but unfortunately reality swept in way too fast--DAMN YOU THIRD AT CONFLICT!!! I loved that Liv did not take Liam's BS excuses and reasons for not being together and was willing to fight for him while he needed to pull his head out of his bum.
I would have loved to see more of their relationship throughout the years in the epilogue, but I loved that ending so much anyway!
Read
March 5, 2023Ew. She's gross. Saying her friends (quarterback football dude) name while her man (a hockey player) is making out with her. Wtfuckerooooooo is this shiet? I don't care who is doing the cheating, but I don't tolerate that shit. Would it be ok if he was friends with a girl but he had a girlfriend who he said the other girls name to? No. That's just a no for me, irl or my books. I was giving g this author the benefit of the doubt because I dnfed another book of hers but I don't want to read this 😭😖😤😤😤👿 I'm getting MAD
Hopefully no one gets blundsided like me with all these 5 star arc reviews. Thats a disservice to readers who don't want to read this shit
Ended after about three pages. 🤦😐😐😐
Hopefully no one gets blundsided like me with all these 5 star arc reviews. Thats a disservice to readers who don't want to read this shit
Ended after about three pages. 🤦😐😐😐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2022
4.5 STARS
This romance has many common tropes- College sports romance, Grumpy/Sunshine, Best friends to lovers, Fake relationship and a bit of Forbidden romance.
𝐀𝐍𝐃 this book is why I 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 these tropes! When they work for me, they are like this book was-butterfly inducing, emotional, sexy, 𝐅𝐔𝐍!
Liam and Liv are friends from high school, they shared a big personal, traumatic loss at the beginning of college that bonded them very strongly. Liv supported and encouraged Liam at his lowest and they became each other’s “person” to lean on and depend on.
Senior year of college, Liv and her friends devise a sneaky “seduction lessons” plan that she talks Liam into being her tutor for. She feels like she can’t move forward with anyone while she still has her crush on him. She tells him a different reason of course.
This changes things for the best friends obviously. They have danced around their attraction for a few reasons, now it has to be dealt with.
I love the tension and chemistry between them as much as I love the friendship and companionship. I love that they understand and get each other so well.
I love that they both look out for each other, they are each other’s biggest supporters and they are very protective.
I was like a college girl with a crush right with Liv. It was so swoony and spicy.
The two have fun and very 𝐇𝐎𝐓 chemistry. I really enjoyed the intimate and sexy scenes between them. It’s not just heat and passion there’s a lot of emotions and some light, fun moments as well.
It’s paced well, it’s lower angst, despite some serious emotional aspects.
The secondary characters are really fantastic and I look forward to reading more of them. They added lots of humor and heart to the story. I loved how their friends had so many rarely kept secret conversations with and about the two. The meddling and the involvement of their friends was hilarious and a really endearing addition.
It was such a fun, engaging and steamy story. Both main characters are really likable. I felt the connection was based on real things, not just attraction or familiarity.
I loved that they are at a transitional stage in their lives, it’s the end of college so big life decisions and changes are very front and center for them.
I love the way they subtly grow and mature. Liv doesn’t act like a timid wallflower and she handles Liam’s stubbornness so well. I loved that she didn’t put up with his BS. (I say that with affection, I really adore him!)
The ending was great! I wasn’t sure which way things were going to go for them and I love where life took them. It was a bit unexpected, a nice surprise.
It was a story with characters that really captured my attention and my heart. It was so enjoyable, I can’t wait to read more by this author.
This romance has many common tropes- College sports romance, Grumpy/Sunshine, Best friends to lovers, Fake relationship and a bit of Forbidden romance.
𝐀𝐍𝐃 this book is why I 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 these tropes! When they work for me, they are like this book was-butterfly inducing, emotional, sexy, 𝐅𝐔𝐍!
Liam and Liv are friends from high school, they shared a big personal, traumatic loss at the beginning of college that bonded them very strongly. Liv supported and encouraged Liam at his lowest and they became each other’s “person” to lean on and depend on.
Senior year of college, Liv and her friends devise a sneaky “seduction lessons” plan that she talks Liam into being her tutor for. She feels like she can’t move forward with anyone while she still has her crush on him. She tells him a different reason of course.
This changes things for the best friends obviously. They have danced around their attraction for a few reasons, now it has to be dealt with.
I love the tension and chemistry between them as much as I love the friendship and companionship. I love that they understand and get each other so well.
I love that they both look out for each other, they are each other’s biggest supporters and they are very protective.
I was like a college girl with a crush right with Liv. It was so swoony and spicy.
The two have fun and very 𝐇𝐎𝐓 chemistry. I really enjoyed the intimate and sexy scenes between them. It’s not just heat and passion there’s a lot of emotions and some light, fun moments as well.
It’s paced well, it’s lower angst, despite some serious emotional aspects.
The secondary characters are really fantastic and I look forward to reading more of them. They added lots of humor and heart to the story. I loved how their friends had so many rarely kept secret conversations with and about the two. The meddling and the involvement of their friends was hilarious and a really endearing addition.
It was such a fun, engaging and steamy story. Both main characters are really likable. I felt the connection was based on real things, not just attraction or familiarity.
I loved that they are at a transitional stage in their lives, it’s the end of college so big life decisions and changes are very front and center for them.
I love the way they subtly grow and mature. Liv doesn’t act like a timid wallflower and she handles Liam’s stubbornness so well. I loved that she didn’t put up with his BS. (I say that with affection, I really adore him!)
The ending was great! I wasn’t sure which way things were going to go for them and I love where life took them. It was a bit unexpected, a nice surprise.
It was a story with characters that really captured my attention and my heart. It was so enjoyable, I can’t wait to read more by this author.
December 28, 2022
I liked this one a lot better than the first book! You can tell this author is finding her voice for sure, and there's just something about the way she writes that I really like.
I was so excited for this book, especially because of all the snippets of Liam and Liv we got in the previous book. And while did take me longer than I would have liked to really get into it, once I was, I was hooked!
Liv and Liam have been best of friends for years now, but where she's in the friend zone, Liv has grown intense feelings for her best friend-- so intense she calls out his name in the throes of passion with another person (oops!) But he's made it very clear that friends is all they will ever be, yet whenever she tries to move on, he's always right there in her way. So she asks him to help 'tutor' her so she can not only scratch the itch she so desperately wants with Liam, but hopes this wakes him up and he realizes just how perfect they would be together. But she never expected to fall more in love with Liam.. or to have her feelings actually be reciprocated.
I liked Liam, I really did, but I hated the third act conflict. If felt like they had just gotten together and were happy, and then BAM. Sudden heartbreak. I wish we could have seen them just *be* together a bit more, especially with how much angst they went through to actually be together. I get why he thought he had to push her away, and im glad that Liv was always there and helped him realize he didn't need to feel the way he did about their relationship, all the while maintaining her boundaries and keeping her backbone. It all came together really well, I just wish it was done in a different way. It also felt like the ending was rushed, and I would jave liked to see them in the future as well.
All in all, this is definite step up from the first book, and I'm really looking forward to more in this series!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
I was so excited for this book, especially because of all the snippets of Liam and Liv we got in the previous book. And while did take me longer than I would have liked to really get into it, once I was, I was hooked!
Liv and Liam have been best of friends for years now, but where she's in the friend zone, Liv has grown intense feelings for her best friend-- so intense she calls out his name in the throes of passion with another person (oops!) But he's made it very clear that friends is all they will ever be, yet whenever she tries to move on, he's always right there in her way. So she asks him to help 'tutor' her so she can not only scratch the itch she so desperately wants with Liam, but hopes this wakes him up and he realizes just how perfect they would be together. But she never expected to fall more in love with Liam.. or to have her feelings actually be reciprocated.
I liked Liam, I really did, but I hated the third act conflict. If felt like they had just gotten together and were happy, and then BAM. Sudden heartbreak. I wish we could have seen them just *be* together a bit more, especially with how much angst they went through to actually be together. I get why he thought he had to push her away, and im glad that Liv was always there and helped him realize he didn't need to feel the way he did about their relationship, all the while maintaining her boundaries and keeping her backbone. It all came together really well, I just wish it was done in a different way. It also felt like the ending was rushed, and I would jave liked to see them in the future as well.
All in all, this is definite step up from the first book, and I'm really looking forward to more in this series!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
December 17, 2022
Delay of Game by Maggie Rawdon is a prime new adult sports romance involving best friends turning into more when wallflower Olivia enlists her best friend & star quarterback, Liam, into helping coach her back into the dating game. Their chemistry is immediate, but their heart-wrenching history has kept them from crossing lines before. Will Liam coach Liv into another man’s arms or will the play backfire & they realize the they’re meant to be?! Read Delay of Game to find out!
This is a wonderfully messy new adult romance full of high emotions, tangled feelings & lots of spice along the way. I haven’t read the New Adult genre in awhile, but it’s a nice mix of drama, figuring out futures, steamy parts & the chaos of roommates. I enjoyed the friend group & how they balanced each other out. I also appreciated how they were there in the difficult times. I thought Liam & Liv’s difficult history made for excellent personal growth & development with how it molded them as people.
I really enjoyed the ending & being able to see how things all came together with the extended epilogue.
If you’re looking for a new adult, sexy sports romance, Delay of Game is out now!
Massive thanks to Wildfire Marketing & Maggie Rawdon for the arc, which I voluntarily read & reviewed. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
This is a wonderfully messy new adult romance full of high emotions, tangled feelings & lots of spice along the way. I haven’t read the New Adult genre in awhile, but it’s a nice mix of drama, figuring out futures, steamy parts & the chaos of roommates. I enjoyed the friend group & how they balanced each other out. I also appreciated how they were there in the difficult times. I thought Liam & Liv’s difficult history made for excellent personal growth & development with how it molded them as people.
I really enjoyed the ending & being able to see how things all came together with the extended epilogue.
If you’re looking for a new adult, sexy sports romance, Delay of Game is out now!
Massive thanks to Wildfire Marketing & Maggie Rawdon for the arc, which I voluntarily read & reviewed. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
December 9, 2022
4.5 STARS ⭐️
What a great ready about two best friends who venture into more. If you are looking for any of these, then this is the book for you!
Sports romance ✔️
Best friends to lovers ✔️
College romance ✔️
Past trauma for both MCs ✔️
Great friend groups ✔️
A hard fought HEA ✔️
Liam and Olivia (Liv) have been friends turned best friends since high school. There was a tragic dynamic that brought them closer right before they started college (I don’t want to spoil). Now they are in their senior year of college and Liv is finally admitting to herself that she wants more.
Liv tells Liam that she wants him to coach her to become more openly sexually and he is hesitant because he doesn’t want to ruin their friendship. But he relents, because he is harboring feelings deep down as well.
Throughout their coaching sessions, they get closer and ultimately something happens and Liam pushes Liv away. That was truly heartbreaking for me and I really FELT for Olivia so hard.
I loved these characters, even if I wanted to slap Liam numerous times throughout the book. I’m glad that they got their HEA, but it took them awhile to get there.
Can we hope for an Easton book next? I want to see the women that finally settles that beast!
What a great ready about two best friends who venture into more. If you are looking for any of these, then this is the book for you!
Sports romance ✔️
Best friends to lovers ✔️
College romance ✔️
Past trauma for both MCs ✔️
Great friend groups ✔️
A hard fought HEA ✔️
Liam and Olivia (Liv) have been friends turned best friends since high school. There was a tragic dynamic that brought them closer right before they started college (I don’t want to spoil). Now they are in their senior year of college and Liv is finally admitting to herself that she wants more.
Liv tells Liam that she wants him to coach her to become more openly sexually and he is hesitant because he doesn’t want to ruin their friendship. But he relents, because he is harboring feelings deep down as well.
Throughout their coaching sessions, they get closer and ultimately something happens and Liam pushes Liv away. That was truly heartbreaking for me and I really FELT for Olivia so hard.
I loved these characters, even if I wanted to slap Liam numerous times throughout the book. I’m glad that they got their HEA, but it took them awhile to get there.
Can we hope for an Easton book next? I want to see the women that finally settles that beast!
March 20, 2023
Ok I LOVED this one. I really wanted to love it - I was scared I was going to hate it - and I was on pins and needles reading it. I was just waiting for the other shoe to drop. I was waiting for one of them to do something unforgiveable because they both were feeling the same things - but at different levels of comfort with their feelings. This was a best friends to lovers - a "teaching" arrangement - book. I loved that even though they weren't a "couple" throughout the book - they were a couple. The majority of this book is centered around them being together and the level of crazy they made each other. There is a small portion that is the monumental "break up" (not really in the case) as in all romance novels - but even that is fun (for the most part). There is a lot of emotional stuff, but it's hot as heck, fun, and loving ..... Liam and Liv are by far my favorite book out of the series. 100% 5 stars all the way with them. Nothing at all that I didn't like. I am so glad I read this book - I wasn't sure I would with the reviews and how I wasn't in love with book one - but after this one - I am willing to try for more!
December 17, 2022
I want to thank @maggierawdonbooks & @wildfiremarketingsolutions for the ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
friends to lovers/ grumpy, sunshine/ best friends/ football romance
my review::
i’ve become a big fan of Maggie this is the second book in the series and it didn’t disappoint. I wasn’t expecting the history between Liv and Liam it put more things into perspective especially with the feeling they each had! Liv not wanting to be known as a wallflower has truly decided to come out of her shell and make it known she’s ready for a change. Liam is to stubborn and head strong quarterback to realize a good thing in front of him! they are for-sure a fiery duo!
Delay of Game is available now!
#mollysbooklibrary #maggierawdon #wildfiremarketingsolutions #arcreader #arcreviewer #grumpysunshine #collegesportsromance #footballromance #friendstoloversromance #bookstagram #bookish #bookishthings #booksbooksandmorebooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
friends to lovers/ grumpy, sunshine/ best friends/ football romance
my review::
i’ve become a big fan of Maggie this is the second book in the series and it didn’t disappoint. I wasn’t expecting the history between Liv and Liam it put more things into perspective especially with the feeling they each had! Liv not wanting to be known as a wallflower has truly decided to come out of her shell and make it known she’s ready for a change. Liam is to stubborn and head strong quarterback to realize a good thing in front of him! they are for-sure a fiery duo!
Delay of Game is available now!
#mollysbooklibrary #maggierawdon #wildfiremarketingsolutions #arcreader #arcreviewer #grumpysunshine #collegesportsromance #footballromance #friendstoloversromance #bookstagram #bookish #bookishthings #booksbooksandmorebooks
March 6, 2023
I love that we're getting to see more of the friendship dynamics in this one, and Easton is growing on me more and more. I kept thinking he better be the male main character (MMC) of the third book while reading this.
Ok, but on to who this book is actually about. I love that Olivia was ready to take control of her life and make others see her as someone other than the football mom. And while we definitely can tell that Liam and Olivia's relationship is filled with tension, she drops a bomb early on in the book I wasn't expecting, which just added more complexity to their relationship. But she still took control, throughout the whole book really, and I love that for her. This my least favorite of the series, but it still gets a solid 3.5 stars, so I wouldn't skip it.
Ok, but on to who this book is actually about. I love that Olivia was ready to take control of her life and make others see her as someone other than the football mom. And while we definitely can tell that Liam and Olivia's relationship is filled with tension, she drops a bomb early on in the book I wasn't expecting, which just added more complexity to their relationship. But she still took control, throughout the whole book really, and I love that for her. This my least favorite of the series, but it still gets a solid 3.5 stars, so I wouldn't skip it.
December 11, 2022
Liam and Liv
If you want a book that gives you the “feels” this is a book you want to get your hands on. This is a sports romance with Liam as quarterback and also a friends to lovers since Liam’s best friend is Liv. Now they are in their senior year at college and Liv wants more and knows just how to push Liam in the right direction. Liv wants Liam to help her in the “dating” arena. The problem is he isn’t sure because he doesn’t want to ruin their friendship.
Their story made me crazy at times but I’m so glad their found their HEA.
If you want a book that gives you the “feels” this is a book you want to get your hands on. This is a sports romance with Liam as quarterback and also a friends to lovers since Liam’s best friend is Liv. Now they are in their senior year at college and Liv wants more and knows just how to push Liam in the right direction. Liv wants Liam to help her in the “dating” arena. The problem is he isn’t sure because he doesn’t want to ruin their friendship.
Their story made me crazy at times but I’m so glad their found their HEA.
December 20, 2022
Liv and Liam are the quintessential duo who have bonded over their shared brokenness,and the loss of a best friend and lover.
Being stuck in a will they/won't they limbo of avoidance,and scared to destroy the friendship they've cultivated throughout their High School and College years, they decide to change up the rules of their closely guarded relationship,and give romance a chance.
Their acknowledged passion and chemistry means they have to decide to let the past go, but with new challenges, the future looks even more troubled than Liam anticipated.
I loved the sweet and wholesome moments these two have,and the comfort they displayed in knowing the other so well. The sexy encounters were made even more appealing because of their easy familiarity. Being seen and known so intimately,and cared for so deeply by one another made their connection jump off the page.
It was a hard won HEA for these two,but a nice one nonetheless.
*I enjoyed seeing Waylon and Mackenzie once again, and the rest of their circle of friends and their antics made me laugh,as usual.
Here's hoping that Wren and Easton will be featured in the next installment of this series.
4.5⭐
4🧯🥵
Being stuck in a will they/won't they limbo of avoidance,and scared to destroy the friendship they've cultivated throughout their High School and College years, they decide to change up the rules of their closely guarded relationship,and give romance a chance.
Their acknowledged passion and chemistry means they have to decide to let the past go, but with new challenges, the future looks even more troubled than Liam anticipated.
I loved the sweet and wholesome moments these two have,and the comfort they displayed in knowing the other so well. The sexy encounters were made even more appealing because of their easy familiarity. Being seen and known so intimately,and cared for so deeply by one another made their connection jump off the page.
It was a hard won HEA for these two,but a nice one nonetheless.
*I enjoyed seeing Waylon and Mackenzie once again, and the rest of their circle of friends and their antics made me laugh,as usual.
Here's hoping that Wren and Easton will be featured in the next installment of this series.
4.5⭐
4🧯🥵
December 17, 2022
With this book, Maggie became an “insta-purchase” author for me. I flew through this book in one sitting because I simply could not put it down. Their banter, history, chemistry, all of it pulled me in.
Olivia yearns for her best friend Liam. They’ve been inseparable for years. Liv acting like the team mom, and Liam being her fierce protector. When Liv starts to realize she likes Liam, she comes up with a plan to get him out of her system.
Liam’s dirty mouth alone gave this book five stars. Holy crap that man was HOT. Friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, and a happily ever after. What’s not to love ❤️
5/5 ⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Olivia yearns for her best friend Liam. They’ve been inseparable for years. Liv acting like the team mom, and Liam being her fierce protector. When Liv starts to realize she likes Liam, she comes up with a plan to get him out of her system.
Liam’s dirty mouth alone gave this book five stars. Holy crap that man was HOT. Friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, and a happily ever after. What’s not to love ❤️
5/5 ⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
February 3, 2023
So cute, so spicy and loved every single page. I read all in one sitting.
Super cute series. Reminds me of the Campus Series.
Diving into book 3 immediately!
Super cute series. Reminds me of the Campus Series.
Diving into book 3 immediately!
December 15, 2022
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
Ranking: 4.5⭐
Maggie Rawdon did it again! And I think that with only two books I can say that this author includes drama in her stories LIKE NO ONE else, she makes me enjoy them a lot and with Liv & Liam she gave me a story that never ceases to amaze me, it was fun, painful at times, VERY hot and I loved that Maggie give so much presence to the secondary characters in each of her books.
I really liked Liv in the first book, but I have to say that in Delay of Game I was quite surprised by her character because Liv is the typical good girl, kind and who always takes care of the people he loves, but also has a strong, brave, impulsive, flirtatious and very sensual side that she brings out at the most opportune moments. I loved reading more about her friendship with Mac & Wren, as well as the rest of the guys on the team, and I really liked the twist Maggie put on that specific relationship towards the end of the book.
On the other hand, I think we didn't see much of Liam's personality in Play Fake, but in this book we know everything about him: the grumpy quarterback who is constantly scaring away the other boys of Liv, her best friend, he lives and breathes soccer, could be very sweet, sensual, understanding and a little silly at times. Something that surprised me a lot about his character was how vulnerable he could become, how much he lets his emotions control him sometimes and mainly that he has spent so long trying to fight against the attraction he feels for Liv .
And he's not the only one interested in his best friend, Olivia knows that she feels more than friendship for Liam but their relationship is not easy: there is a situation from the past that leads them to feel guilty and that is why neither can take the next step regarding their attraction, until Liv decides to convince Liam to be her new sex tutor, something that will make their relationship much more dramatic, but also that neither of them can continue to ignore what they feel. One of the things I liked the most was the strong chemistry between Liam & Liv, how well they get along and the way they get to know each other more as their deal progresses. Without a doubt this author is becoming one of my favorites and I can't wait to continue reading more of her characters.
🏈Olivia: 5/5
🏈Liam: 4/5
🏈Plot: 4/5
🏈Love story: 5/5
🏈Secondary characters: 5/5
🏈Universe: 5/5
🏈Cover: 4/5
🌶️: 4.5/5
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5⭐
Maggie Rawdon lo hizo de nuevo! Y creo que con solo dos libros puedo decir que esta autora incluye el drama en sus historias COMO NADIE, me hace disfrutarlas muchísimo y con Liv & Liam me dio una historia que no dejo de sorprenderme, fue divertida, dolorosa por momentos, MUY sensual y amé que Maggie siga dándole tanta presencia a los personajes secundarios en cada uno de sus libros.
Liv me gustó muchísimo en el primer libro, pero tengo que decir que en Delay of Game su personaje me sorprendió bastante porque Liv es la típica chica buena, amable y que siempre cuida de las personas que ama, pero también tiene un lado fuerte, valiente, impulsivo, coqueto y muy sensual que saca en los momentos más oportunos. Me encantó leer más de su amistad con Mac & Wren, también con el resto de los chicos del equipo y me gustó mucho el giro que Maggie le dio a esa relación en especifico hacia el final del libro.
Por otra parte, creo que de la personalidad de Liam no vimos mucho en Play Fake, pero en este libro conocemos todo acerca de él: el quarterback gruñón que constantemente está ahuyentando a los pretendientes de Liv, su mejor amiga, que vive y respira futbol, que pude ser muy tierno, sensual, comprensivo y un poco tonto a veces. Algo que me sorprendió bastante de su personaje fue lo vulnerable que pude llegar a ser, lo mucho que deja que sus emociones lo controlen a veces y principalmente que lleve tanto tiempo intentando pelear contra la atracción que siente por Liv.
Y él no es el único interesado en su mejor amiga, Olivia sabe que siente algo más que amistad por Liam pero su situación no es nada sencilla: hay una situación del pasado que los lleva a sentirse culpables y por eso ninguno puede dar el siguiente paso respecto a su atracción, hasta que Liv decide convencer a Liam de ser su nuevo tutor sexual, algo que va a hacer que su relación sea mucho más dramática, pero también que ninguno de los dos pueda seguir ignorando lo que siente. Una de las cosas que más me gustó fue la química tan fuerte que hay entre Liam & Liv, lo bien que se llevan y la manera en la que conocen más del otro a medida que su acuerdo avanza. Sin lugar a dudas ésta autora se está convirtiendo en una de mis favoritas y no puedo esperar a seguir leyendo a más de sus personajes.
🏈Olivia: 5/5
🏈Liam: 4/5
🏈Trama: 4/5
🏈Historia de amor: 5/5
🏈Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🏈Universo: 5/5
🏈Portada: 4/5
🌶️: 4.5/5
Ranking: 4.5⭐
Maggie Rawdon did it again! And I think that with only two books I can say that this author includes drama in her stories LIKE NO ONE else, she makes me enjoy them a lot and with Liv & Liam she gave me a story that never ceases to amaze me, it was fun, painful at times, VERY hot and I loved that Maggie give so much presence to the secondary characters in each of her books.
I really liked Liv in the first book, but I have to say that in Delay of Game I was quite surprised by her character because Liv is the typical good girl, kind and who always takes care of the people he loves, but also has a strong, brave, impulsive, flirtatious and very sensual side that she brings out at the most opportune moments. I loved reading more about her friendship with Mac & Wren, as well as the rest of the guys on the team, and I really liked the twist Maggie put on that specific relationship towards the end of the book.
On the other hand, I think we didn't see much of Liam's personality in Play Fake, but in this book we know everything about him: the grumpy quarterback who is constantly scaring away the other boys of Liv, her best friend, he lives and breathes soccer, could be very sweet, sensual, understanding and a little silly at times. Something that surprised me a lot about his character was how vulnerable he could become, how much he lets his emotions control him sometimes and mainly that he has spent so long trying to fight against the attraction he feels for Liv .
And he's not the only one interested in his best friend, Olivia knows that she feels more than friendship for Liam but their relationship is not easy: there is a situation from the past that leads them to feel guilty and that is why neither can take the next step regarding their attraction, until Liv decides to convince Liam to be her new sex tutor, something that will make their relationship much more dramatic, but also that neither of them can continue to ignore what they feel. One of the things I liked the most was the strong chemistry between Liam & Liv, how well they get along and the way they get to know each other more as their deal progresses. Without a doubt this author is becoming one of my favorites and I can't wait to continue reading more of her characters.
🏈Olivia: 5/5
🏈Liam: 4/5
🏈Plot: 4/5
🏈Love story: 5/5
🏈Secondary characters: 5/5
🏈Universe: 5/5
🏈Cover: 4/5
🌶️: 4.5/5
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5⭐
Maggie Rawdon lo hizo de nuevo! Y creo que con solo dos libros puedo decir que esta autora incluye el drama en sus historias COMO NADIE, me hace disfrutarlas muchísimo y con Liv & Liam me dio una historia que no dejo de sorprenderme, fue divertida, dolorosa por momentos, MUY sensual y amé que Maggie siga dándole tanta presencia a los personajes secundarios en cada uno de sus libros.
Liv me gustó muchísimo en el primer libro, pero tengo que decir que en Delay of Game su personaje me sorprendió bastante porque Liv es la típica chica buena, amable y que siempre cuida de las personas que ama, pero también tiene un lado fuerte, valiente, impulsivo, coqueto y muy sensual que saca en los momentos más oportunos. Me encantó leer más de su amistad con Mac & Wren, también con el resto de los chicos del equipo y me gustó mucho el giro que Maggie le dio a esa relación en especifico hacia el final del libro.
Por otra parte, creo que de la personalidad de Liam no vimos mucho en Play Fake, pero en este libro conocemos todo acerca de él: el quarterback gruñón que constantemente está ahuyentando a los pretendientes de Liv, su mejor amiga, que vive y respira futbol, que pude ser muy tierno, sensual, comprensivo y un poco tonto a veces. Algo que me sorprendió bastante de su personaje fue lo vulnerable que pude llegar a ser, lo mucho que deja que sus emociones lo controlen a veces y principalmente que lleve tanto tiempo intentando pelear contra la atracción que siente por Liv.
Y él no es el único interesado en su mejor amiga, Olivia sabe que siente algo más que amistad por Liam pero su situación no es nada sencilla: hay una situación del pasado que los lleva a sentirse culpables y por eso ninguno puede dar el siguiente paso respecto a su atracción, hasta que Liv decide convencer a Liam de ser su nuevo tutor sexual, algo que va a hacer que su relación sea mucho más dramática, pero también que ninguno de los dos pueda seguir ignorando lo que siente. Una de las cosas que más me gustó fue la química tan fuerte que hay entre Liam & Liv, lo bien que se llevan y la manera en la que conocen más del otro a medida que su acuerdo avanza. Sin lugar a dudas ésta autora se está convirtiendo en una de mis favoritas y no puedo esperar a seguir leyendo a más de sus personajes.
🏈Olivia: 5/5
🏈Liam: 4/5
🏈Trama: 4/5
🏈Historia de amor: 5/5
🏈Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🏈Universo: 5/5
🏈Portada: 4/5
🌶️: 4.5/5
December 14, 2022
They were brought together by tragedy, but it was their love for one another and friendship that has kept them united... but only as friends. Olivia fell for Liam a long time ago, but has always been afraid to act on her feelings for fear of losing their friendship, or worse, being rejected. Being around him all these years and watching him date others has been pure torture, she tried to replacing her feelings for him with another guy, but those feelings just wouldn't go away. So persistent that they cost her a relationship... and she's tired of ignoring them. She feels like it's now or never, she has to make Liam see how good they could be together, but it's going to take one heck of a plan to make it happen... good thing she has one!
Delay of Game is a can't miss friends to lovers romance that will hit you straight in the heart! These two had me the moment they wandered onto the page, it was an instant connection, one that I knew wouldn't be broken until I had taken in every word....and those beautifully penned words tortured my heart in the best possible way! It was evident that Liv and Liam had sparks, but getting them to act on them seemed impossible at first. They were wandering into dangerous territory and if things didn't work out they'd also be losing the best friend they'd ever had, it was one heck of a dilemma. But with a little encouragement from friends and their persistent hearts these two took the leap, but tragedy would once again find them, and this time threatened to ruin everything. Would they let it?
This is my second venture between the pages with this author and I have to say that I enjoyed this one just as much as the first. Her words hit all the right notes, her one of a kind characters impossible to forget, and the happily ever after absolutely perfect! If you like sports romances you have to take a chance on this series, it's characters will steal your heart at first glance! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Delay of Game is a can't miss friends to lovers romance that will hit you straight in the heart! These two had me the moment they wandered onto the page, it was an instant connection, one that I knew wouldn't be broken until I had taken in every word....and those beautifully penned words tortured my heart in the best possible way! It was evident that Liv and Liam had sparks, but getting them to act on them seemed impossible at first. They were wandering into dangerous territory and if things didn't work out they'd also be losing the best friend they'd ever had, it was one heck of a dilemma. But with a little encouragement from friends and their persistent hearts these two took the leap, but tragedy would once again find them, and this time threatened to ruin everything. Would they let it?
This is my second venture between the pages with this author and I have to say that I enjoyed this one just as much as the first. Her words hit all the right notes, her one of a kind characters impossible to forget, and the happily ever after absolutely perfect! If you like sports romances you have to take a chance on this series, it's characters will steal your heart at first glance! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
December 15, 2022
🏈 ARC REVIEW 🏈
Review: 4/5 ⭐️
Steam: 3.5/5 🔥
#delayofgame is book two in this college football series by @maggierawdonbooks. This is my first book by this author.
Liam is the star of the football team. He’s not only a great player, but he’s the QB. Since starting college, he’s kept his best friend Olivia close and she’s become the “football house mom”. You rarely saw them apart. People knew they were close but didn’t understand the depth of their relationship. Liam knew things were changing and his protectiveness was growing for his best friend but he didn’t want to admit why. They start to drift when she tries to date, but Liam’s trying to be supportive. So when she asks him to help build her confidence, he doesn’t trust anyone else with her. One lesson isn’t enough. Can he admit that he has more feelings for his bestie or will his past haunt him and prevent him from getting the girl?
Olivia has been kept in the friend zone with Liam since they started being friends. But freshman year changed them, they grew closer and could only relate to each other, they were each others ride or die. But Liv realizes she sees Liam as more. When he keeps her in the friend zone, she tries to move on but he’s constantly in the way. She thinks she can scratch her itch with him and move on. But if only it was that easy. Can she finally get him out of her system or will she ruin the friendship she cherishes more than anything?
For my first book by this author I really enjoyed it. It took me a little to get into but it definitely got better. These two had so much chemistry is was exploding. I understood Liam’s hangup for being with Liv, but I also thought he needed to let it go. I felt so bad for the way Liam pushed Liv away. These two needed each other like they needed air, they were each others person. I also enjoyed all the side characters! I really enjoyed it and would recommend.
Review: 4/5 ⭐️
Steam: 3.5/5 🔥
#delayofgame is book two in this college football series by @maggierawdonbooks. This is my first book by this author.
Liam is the star of the football team. He’s not only a great player, but he’s the QB. Since starting college, he’s kept his best friend Olivia close and she’s become the “football house mom”. You rarely saw them apart. People knew they were close but didn’t understand the depth of their relationship. Liam knew things were changing and his protectiveness was growing for his best friend but he didn’t want to admit why. They start to drift when she tries to date, but Liam’s trying to be supportive. So when she asks him to help build her confidence, he doesn’t trust anyone else with her. One lesson isn’t enough. Can he admit that he has more feelings for his bestie or will his past haunt him and prevent him from getting the girl?
Olivia has been kept in the friend zone with Liam since they started being friends. But freshman year changed them, they grew closer and could only relate to each other, they were each others ride or die. But Liv realizes she sees Liam as more. When he keeps her in the friend zone, she tries to move on but he’s constantly in the way. She thinks she can scratch her itch with him and move on. But if only it was that easy. Can she finally get him out of her system or will she ruin the friendship she cherishes more than anything?
For my first book by this author I really enjoyed it. It took me a little to get into but it definitely got better. These two had so much chemistry is was exploding. I understood Liam’s hangup for being with Liv, but I also thought he needed to let it go. I felt so bad for the way Liam pushed Liv away. These two needed each other like they needed air, they were each others person. I also enjoyed all the side characters! I really enjoyed it and would recommend.
December 15, 2022
🏈 Delay of Game 🏈
by Maggie Rawdon
Trope: College Romance, Football Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Feelings: ❤️ 5/5 🌶 5/5 😢 4/5
From best friends to big love
Deep emotional, but sweet and beautiful at the same time. Liam and Olivia have been best friends for a long time. Caring and helping each other with every problem and whenever needed. Knowing since highschool, deeply bound by tragedy.
Liv feels that there is something more to her friendship with Liam but cannot or won’t act with it further. So when she discovers her true state by accident she sees herself in big trouble. That’s what friends are for. So, with a plan made with Wren and Kenzie, her two friends, she has a goal in mind.
“...the whole goal with the experiment was to get you to notice me as something else…”
Liam cares for his best friend Olivia. He might actually deep deep inside feel a little bit more for her, but he would never act on it. That for many reasons. But when Liv needs help with her insecurities, self esteem and experience Liam offers his help. Better than someone else.
But as you sure can guess, it doesn’t work out the way it should. Olivia can’t really solve her Liam-Problem, on the contrary.
“Liv, you forget. I fucking know you…. So don’t lie to me.”
And Liam discovers there is more than he thought, sadly. Because it should not be. To save their friendship they stop the teaching, or more, Liam does. In a hurtful way for Olivia. And then a painful incident happens which makes everything worse before it can get better. If there is a way, that is.
I love the stories and the characters the author created in this world. I can’t wait for the next book to come, and the next and the next… Highly recommended.
by Maggie Rawdon
Trope: College Romance, Football Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Feelings: ❤️ 5/5 🌶 5/5 😢 4/5
From best friends to big love
Deep emotional, but sweet and beautiful at the same time. Liam and Olivia have been best friends for a long time. Caring and helping each other with every problem and whenever needed. Knowing since highschool, deeply bound by tragedy.
Liv feels that there is something more to her friendship with Liam but cannot or won’t act with it further. So when she discovers her true state by accident she sees herself in big trouble. That’s what friends are for. So, with a plan made with Wren and Kenzie, her two friends, she has a goal in mind.
“...the whole goal with the experiment was to get you to notice me as something else…”
Liam cares for his best friend Olivia. He might actually deep deep inside feel a little bit more for her, but he would never act on it. That for many reasons. But when Liv needs help with her insecurities, self esteem and experience Liam offers his help. Better than someone else.
But as you sure can guess, it doesn’t work out the way it should. Olivia can’t really solve her Liam-Problem, on the contrary.
“Liv, you forget. I fucking know you…. So don’t lie to me.”
And Liam discovers there is more than he thought, sadly. Because it should not be. To save their friendship they stop the teaching, or more, Liam does. In a hurtful way for Olivia. And then a painful incident happens which makes everything worse before it can get better. If there is a way, that is.
I love the stories and the characters the author created in this world. I can’t wait for the next book to come, and the next and the next… Highly recommended.
December 16, 2022
Steamy, emotional, and tension filled, this college sports romance is exactly the kind of book I’ve been in the mood for. It begins with Liam and Liv as just friends that share a complex backstory, and while they’re firmly in the friendzone they both feel more. After her current relationship goes south because of one little Freudian slip, she convinces Liam to help her out in a way that only he could in hopes that they become more than just best friends. But will Liv’s plan work, or will they be forever doomed to be only friends?
I adore college romances, especially college sports romances, and this one delivers all the drama and tenderness that I was hoping it would. Liam and Liv’s story is plagued by someone from the past and all the what-ifs if something between them were to change. It’s that trauma and stress that propels this story, and the way their relationship evolves is compelling. Liam and Liv’s romance isn’t easy, and I love that the tension rolls off the pages in waves. It’s what makes this such an interesting storyline.
Also, I enjoyed seeing both Liam and Liv’s individual growth. Liam is definitely pigheaded where Liv is concerned and about as grumpy as they get, but the glimpses we get of him being what I think of as his real self make him so endearing. And then there’s Liv. Her transformation is utterly delightful. At the start of the book, she’s sweet and caring and likeable, but as we get more into the story she changes from cute and almost mom-like to someone more vixenish. The progression of her character is well done, and I like that it feels very organic.
Maggie Rawdon is a new-to-me author, and I’m so very happy that I picked up one of her books. I’ll be reading the first book in this series next, and I’m already looking forward to the next one, too.
I adore college romances, especially college sports romances, and this one delivers all the drama and tenderness that I was hoping it would. Liam and Liv’s story is plagued by someone from the past and all the what-ifs if something between them were to change. It’s that trauma and stress that propels this story, and the way their relationship evolves is compelling. Liam and Liv’s romance isn’t easy, and I love that the tension rolls off the pages in waves. It’s what makes this such an interesting storyline.
Also, I enjoyed seeing both Liam and Liv’s individual growth. Liam is definitely pigheaded where Liv is concerned and about as grumpy as they get, but the glimpses we get of him being what I think of as his real self make him so endearing. And then there’s Liv. Her transformation is utterly delightful. At the start of the book, she’s sweet and caring and likeable, but as we get more into the story she changes from cute and almost mom-like to someone more vixenish. The progression of her character is well done, and I like that it feels very organic.
Maggie Rawdon is a new-to-me author, and I’m so very happy that I picked up one of her books. I’ll be reading the first book in this series next, and I’m already looking forward to the next one, too.
January 9, 2023
𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙇𝙞𝙫. 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙄 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙛 𝙢𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙪𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨. 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩.
.
𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙇𝙞𝙖𝙢.
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒
Liam and Olivia have been dancing around each other for years. They have been friends since high school when tragedy struck and brought them much closer. The loss of a friend and a boyfriend.
Liam quarterback with a bright future, he doesn't want distractions in his life, football is his life, but a girl lives under his skin, Liv, he has made it his mission to always protect her, but that's when his feelings for her come out He loves her, but he feels that he is betraying his friend... and he is in a dilemma because he doesn't want her to move on with anyone either...
Olivia is known as the soccer mom, the one who always sees that she has a meal and clothes made, but she has fought for Liam to see her more than that and stop treating her as a fragile girl and as the ex-girlfriend of his friend's. she.
In a last attempt to get her attention, she asks him to teach her how to seduce to conquer boys. That could further damage the relationship they have.
And her feelings for each other will be put at stake, can they get out unscathed?
Compared to the previous book, I enjoyed reading Liam and Liv much more, I loved their dynamic, how they were for each other, how they knew each other and felt comfortable being next to each other, which made their encounters quite hot.
If you like a book with a grumpy protagonist and a girl being a sun, and added that they are friends this is your book.
.
𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙇𝙞𝙖𝙢.
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒
Liam and Olivia have been dancing around each other for years. They have been friends since high school when tragedy struck and brought them much closer. The loss of a friend and a boyfriend.
Liam quarterback with a bright future, he doesn't want distractions in his life, football is his life, but a girl lives under his skin, Liv, he has made it his mission to always protect her, but that's when his feelings for her come out He loves her, but he feels that he is betraying his friend... and he is in a dilemma because he doesn't want her to move on with anyone either...
Olivia is known as the soccer mom, the one who always sees that she has a meal and clothes made, but she has fought for Liam to see her more than that and stop treating her as a fragile girl and as the ex-girlfriend of his friend's. she.
In a last attempt to get her attention, she asks him to teach her how to seduce to conquer boys. That could further damage the relationship they have.
And her feelings for each other will be put at stake, can they get out unscathed?
Compared to the previous book, I enjoyed reading Liam and Liv much more, I loved their dynamic, how they were for each other, how they knew each other and felt comfortable being next to each other, which made their encounters quite hot.
If you like a book with a grumpy protagonist and a girl being a sun, and added that they are friends this is your book.
December 15, 2022
Delay of Game
By: Maggie Rawdon
Rating: 4⭐️/5
3🔥/5
⚠️Always Check Content/Trigger Warnings⚠️
⭐️Tropes⭐️
- College Football Romance
- Forbidden Love
- Friends to Lovers
- Grumpy Sunshine
This is exactly what I was looking for from Liv and Liam’s story! If you read Play Fake which I highly recommend before diving into this one you’ve already been introduced to these characters! We got to see their connection a little in the first book and it definitely only got hotter in this book! Despite some setbacks, primarily on Liam’s end the connection was undeniable and these two were perfect together!
This is a friends to lovers which isn’t always my favorite trope since it normally follows the same plot/storyline but that isn’t the case here! Maggie does an awesome job with creating tension, developing unique characters and not overusing the miscommunication trope.
I loved the chemistry these two shared, especially with being friends first. The love always seems a bit more genuine when they’ve been in one another’s lives for a long time, like it was always destined to happen it just previously wasn’t the right time. We do get conflict in this storyline of course so it isn’t all sunshine and roses but I can’t lie I was a bit stressed out with Liam from time to time. I understood his conflict just stressed me out how he handled it lol
Overall, this was a great second addition to the series! If you are a fan of college sport romances this one is definitely for you! You get spice, angst and love. What more could you ask for?
By: Maggie Rawdon
Rating: 4⭐️/5
3🔥/5
⚠️Always Check Content/Trigger Warnings⚠️
⭐️Tropes⭐️
- College Football Romance
- Forbidden Love
- Friends to Lovers
- Grumpy Sunshine
This is exactly what I was looking for from Liv and Liam’s story! If you read Play Fake which I highly recommend before diving into this one you’ve already been introduced to these characters! We got to see their connection a little in the first book and it definitely only got hotter in this book! Despite some setbacks, primarily on Liam’s end the connection was undeniable and these two were perfect together!
This is a friends to lovers which isn’t always my favorite trope since it normally follows the same plot/storyline but that isn’t the case here! Maggie does an awesome job with creating tension, developing unique characters and not overusing the miscommunication trope.
I loved the chemistry these two shared, especially with being friends first. The love always seems a bit more genuine when they’ve been in one another’s lives for a long time, like it was always destined to happen it just previously wasn’t the right time. We do get conflict in this storyline of course so it isn’t all sunshine and roses but I can’t lie I was a bit stressed out with Liam from time to time. I understood his conflict just stressed me out how he handled it lol
Overall, this was a great second addition to the series! If you are a fan of college sport romances this one is definitely for you! You get spice, angst and love. What more could you ask for?
December 19, 2022
Liv and Liam have been BFF’s since high school. They’re now seniors in college and there’s a shift in their relationship, but there is a whole lot of drama surrounding it.
Liv desperately wants to get out of Liam’s friendzone but she’s not really sure how to do it. She turns to her friends Kenzi and Wren for advice and well, they steer her in the direction of asking him for help in the bedroom. This has some interesting results.
Liam is reluctant to agree until Liv threatens to go to one of his more…prolific friends for help. His jealousy takes over and he’s not about to let anyone else touch her, period. He’s been able to keep guys at bay under the radar for years, but now he’s going to have to step up his game. Unfortunately, this is going to have an undesired effect on his heart.
I love how Liv completely steps out of her comfort zone in order to force Liam to see what he’s giving up/missing. She certainly finds a part of herself that she didn’t know she had and I’m absolutely here for it!
As with any friends-to-lovers trope, one friend is always ready to take the leap before the other. This story is no different. However, these two are dealing with a complication that leaves them feeling a bit guilty for no reason, but it’s a looming elephant in the room.
Always check the TW/CW:
💥accidental death
💥grief
Anywho! Time to wrap this up with the goodies:
Read: 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 4🌶🌶🌶🌶
HEA
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Liv desperately wants to get out of Liam’s friendzone but she’s not really sure how to do it. She turns to her friends Kenzi and Wren for advice and well, they steer her in the direction of asking him for help in the bedroom. This has some interesting results.
Liam is reluctant to agree until Liv threatens to go to one of his more…prolific friends for help. His jealousy takes over and he’s not about to let anyone else touch her, period. He’s been able to keep guys at bay under the radar for years, but now he’s going to have to step up his game. Unfortunately, this is going to have an undesired effect on his heart.
I love how Liv completely steps out of her comfort zone in order to force Liam to see what he’s giving up/missing. She certainly finds a part of herself that she didn’t know she had and I’m absolutely here for it!
As with any friends-to-lovers trope, one friend is always ready to take the leap before the other. This story is no different. However, these two are dealing with a complication that leaves them feeling a bit guilty for no reason, but it’s a looming elephant in the room.
Always check the TW/CW:
💥accidental death
💥grief
Anywho! Time to wrap this up with the goodies:
Read: 4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 4🌶🌶🌶🌶
HEA
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 15, 2022
4.25 Stars!! 💜
Having read Play Fake i couldn't wait for more from this author! As soon as this book was announced i started looking forward to it right away. I picked it up and got into this story quickly. I really enjoyed this story so much!
Olivia and Liam's journey pulled me in and didn't let go! Olivia and Liam have been best friends for some time now. When Olivia asks Liam for help, will they give into how they feel for one another? Or will their friendship and other things hold them back?
Olivia and Liam both hooked me into this story so fast. I really liked the friendship between these two and that i got to dig into both of their minds. I wasn't sure how they'd tackle their feelings and things in their lives which had me even more glued to them.
The chemistry between Olivia and Liam was undeniable and heat filled! There was realness to both of them that i thoroughly enjoyed! They had me going through many emotions throughout reading. I adored the whole grumpy / sunshine aspect of their story as well!
It was awesome being back in this world and getting to reunite with some familiar faces! I enjoyed what the other characters brought to the story!
With Delay of Game, Ms.Rawdon has created such a great and addictive read that had me feeling so dang much! I can't wait for more from this author! 💜
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
Having read Play Fake i couldn't wait for more from this author! As soon as this book was announced i started looking forward to it right away. I picked it up and got into this story quickly. I really enjoyed this story so much!
Olivia and Liam's journey pulled me in and didn't let go! Olivia and Liam have been best friends for some time now. When Olivia asks Liam for help, will they give into how they feel for one another? Or will their friendship and other things hold them back?
Olivia and Liam both hooked me into this story so fast. I really liked the friendship between these two and that i got to dig into both of their minds. I wasn't sure how they'd tackle their feelings and things in their lives which had me even more glued to them.
The chemistry between Olivia and Liam was undeniable and heat filled! There was realness to both of them that i thoroughly enjoyed! They had me going through many emotions throughout reading. I adored the whole grumpy / sunshine aspect of their story as well!
It was awesome being back in this world and getting to reunite with some familiar faces! I enjoyed what the other characters brought to the story!
With Delay of Game, Ms.Rawdon has created such a great and addictive read that had me feeling so dang much! I can't wait for more from this author! 💜
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
March 2, 2023
3.5 stars.
Things I Liked:
-friends to lovers trope
-how they were secretly in love with each other for years but will never admit it to themselves
-how everyone around Liam and Liv (all their friends) knew that they cared for each other as more than friends
-the friendship group
-that Liv was the one to make the first move
-that Waylon (and Liam’s other friends) were loyal to Liv when they felt Liam was in the wrong
Things I Didn’t Like:
-that Liam loved Liv but wouldn’t admit it to her. Instead, he kept pushing her away (the way he treated her after his accident was awful)
-how they thought they could go back to being just friends (have people ever actually been able to do that?)
-too many sex scenes (in my opinion). I wanted to see more of their emotional relationship
-how Liam gave up his dream of playing in the NFL and instead decided to coach (this made no sense considering it seemed like he could’ve still been drafted the following year)
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-flashbacks (of them in high-school, their almost kiss, Liv finding out her boyfriend died and having to tell his best friend (Liam), etc.)
-anything about their families. All we knew was that Liam’s parents were workaholic lawyers and he had a sister (and even then, these things were only mentioned briefly when Liam was in the hospital). We knew nothing about Liv’s family
-an epilogue further into the future (wedding, kids, etc.)
Things I Liked:
-friends to lovers trope
-how they were secretly in love with each other for years but will never admit it to themselves
-how everyone around Liam and Liv (all their friends) knew that they cared for each other as more than friends
-the friendship group
-that Liv was the one to make the first move
-that Waylon (and Liam’s other friends) were loyal to Liv when they felt Liam was in the wrong
Things I Didn’t Like:
-that Liam loved Liv but wouldn’t admit it to her. Instead, he kept pushing her away (the way he treated her after his accident was awful)
-how they thought they could go back to being just friends (have people ever actually been able to do that?)
-too many sex scenes (in my opinion). I wanted to see more of their emotional relationship
-how Liam gave up his dream of playing in the NFL and instead decided to coach (this made no sense considering it seemed like he could’ve still been drafted the following year)
Things I Would’ve Liked To See:
-flashbacks (of them in high-school, their almost kiss, Liv finding out her boyfriend died and having to tell his best friend (Liam), etc.)
-anything about their families. All we knew was that Liam’s parents were workaholic lawyers and he had a sister (and even then, these things were only mentioned briefly when Liam was in the hospital). We knew nothing about Liv’s family
-an epilogue further into the future (wedding, kids, etc.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2023
loved it
I couldn’t wait to dive into this book and learn more about Liam and Olivia. We are introduced to them in book 1 and we find out that they are best friends and Olivia is one of the teams biggest supporters.
Liam has always kept Olivia in a box labeled “best friend” and feels like he needs to protect her from everything, including himself.
She is known as the “football mom” and while she has loved being there for Liam, she wants to break out of the box that he placed her in.
She wants to be a little reckless, let loose and she wants to give in to the chemistry she has felt towards her bestie. She comes up with tutoring sessions to get his attention and he agrees because he believes she needs help with her confidence.
While I was expecting their story to be emotional, I was not prepared for it. There was deeper issues that needed to be explored before they get their well deserved HEA.
I love how they focus on the couple but also their friend group. I love how the men aren’t scared to call out Liam when he isn’t thinking clearly and how the girls rally around Olivia when she is hurting.
I can’t wait to get my hands on Eastons story. I know that one is going to be a good one. Enemies with benefits with a side of forced proximity… yes please!!!
I couldn’t wait to dive into this book and learn more about Liam and Olivia. We are introduced to them in book 1 and we find out that they are best friends and Olivia is one of the teams biggest supporters.
Liam has always kept Olivia in a box labeled “best friend” and feels like he needs to protect her from everything, including himself.
She is known as the “football mom” and while she has loved being there for Liam, she wants to break out of the box that he placed her in.
She wants to be a little reckless, let loose and she wants to give in to the chemistry she has felt towards her bestie. She comes up with tutoring sessions to get his attention and he agrees because he believes she needs help with her confidence.
While I was expecting their story to be emotional, I was not prepared for it. There was deeper issues that needed to be explored before they get their well deserved HEA.
I love how they focus on the couple but also their friend group. I love how the men aren’t scared to call out Liam when he isn’t thinking clearly and how the girls rally around Olivia when she is hurting.
I can’t wait to get my hands on Eastons story. I know that one is going to be a good one. Enemies with benefits with a side of forced proximity… yes please!!!
December 12, 2022
“I want to be seen differently. Seen at all really.”
Delay of Game was a fast-paced, addictive story that was so much fun. Olivia and Liam are best friends who share a tragic past. Both have begun to look at each other differently but are afraid to take the next step and ruin their close friendship. When Olivia decides to ask Liam for his help with dating, they take their friendship to a whole other level. Will it bring them closer or destroy them all together?
The chemistry between these two was off the charts and you can’t help but root for them to get together. They are both in denial about their true feelings and have to learn how to be truthful with themselves and each other. In order to be truly happy, they have to confront their shared past and learn how to communicate. While at times, they both frustrated me with their antics, I was also frantically turning the page to find out what would happen next.
Full of emotion, humor, heat, and friendship turned to love, Delay of Game was a highly entertaining read that I devoured in one day. Olivia and Liam are engaging characters who were so much fun. This is my first book by Maggie Rawdon and it definitely won’t be my last. I’m intrigued by all the characters in this series.
Delay of Game was a fast-paced, addictive story that was so much fun. Olivia and Liam are best friends who share a tragic past. Both have begun to look at each other differently but are afraid to take the next step and ruin their close friendship. When Olivia decides to ask Liam for his help with dating, they take their friendship to a whole other level. Will it bring them closer or destroy them all together?
The chemistry between these two was off the charts and you can’t help but root for them to get together. They are both in denial about their true feelings and have to learn how to be truthful with themselves and each other. In order to be truly happy, they have to confront their shared past and learn how to communicate. While at times, they both frustrated me with their antics, I was also frantically turning the page to find out what would happen next.
Full of emotion, humor, heat, and friendship turned to love, Delay of Game was a highly entertaining read that I devoured in one day. Olivia and Liam are engaging characters who were so much fun. This is my first book by Maggie Rawdon and it definitely won’t be my last. I’m intrigued by all the characters in this series.
December 14, 2022
I received this free eARC novel from Wildfire Marketing Solutions. This is my honest review.
This was a very fast and easy read - I'm shocked at how quickly I flew through it! Friends to lovers is a trope I find hard to get into because they are always fighting the attraction to each other, and when they do give in they always want to keep it a secret and make things awkward. Those things DID happen in this book, but the author wrote it in a way that wasn't as drawn out like I've read in the past.
Both Liv and Liam have been fighting their attraction toward one another for awhile now, and I'm actually surprised that it was Liv who took the first step. But once Liam got in board, of boy did things get intense between those two.
I loved seeing all of their friends get in the middle of their drama because that's just who they are and we love them for that. I'm really hoping for a specific couple pair in the next book cause I think it will be amazing!
It was nice to see the background story of Liv and Liam and for then to talk about it and move past it. Getting another piece to the puzzle really helped explain why they were so close.
I'm so glad I got the chance to read this book and can't wait to see what else is in store by this author!
This was a very fast and easy read - I'm shocked at how quickly I flew through it! Friends to lovers is a trope I find hard to get into because they are always fighting the attraction to each other, and when they do give in they always want to keep it a secret and make things awkward. Those things DID happen in this book, but the author wrote it in a way that wasn't as drawn out like I've read in the past.
Both Liv and Liam have been fighting their attraction toward one another for awhile now, and I'm actually surprised that it was Liv who took the first step. But once Liam got in board, of boy did things get intense between those two.
I loved seeing all of their friends get in the middle of their drama because that's just who they are and we love them for that. I'm really hoping for a specific couple pair in the next book cause I think it will be amazing!
It was nice to see the background story of Liv and Liam and for then to talk about it and move past it. Getting another piece to the puzzle really helped explain why they were so close.
I'm so glad I got the chance to read this book and can't wait to see what else is in store by this author!
December 17, 2022
Review by: Jennifer
(5 Stars)
So this is the second of the series, and it's written with the assumption that you have read book one and know who everyone is. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure things out, but I do suggest reading the first story before diving into this. Best friends (without the benefits) Liv and Liam are in a rough patch at the moment, Liam isn't picking up on the vibe that Liv has. While she is fine with that, he also doesn't let her move on as he does his best to not let other guys around her. The rough patch is that Liv has a boyfriend and Liam broke his nose. The boyfriend didn't last long after that, leaving Liv in a bit of a tailspin. She knows she wants to try for something more with Liam but how does she get that across to him. Enter her girl besties coming up with a plan to get Liam to cross a line that they haven't crossed yet. Will the girls' plan work, or will Liam hold out and make sure that their friendship doesn't cross the line that could ruin them.
I enjoyed this story so much that I immediately got book one. This was such an entertaining read, the drama, the funny bits, the naughty moments that were on freaking fire! Liv and Liam had so much chemistry that it fogged up my glasses. I give this 5 stars.
(5 Stars)
So this is the second of the series, and it's written with the assumption that you have read book one and know who everyone is. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure things out, but I do suggest reading the first story before diving into this. Best friends (without the benefits) Liv and Liam are in a rough patch at the moment, Liam isn't picking up on the vibe that Liv has. While she is fine with that, he also doesn't let her move on as he does his best to not let other guys around her. The rough patch is that Liv has a boyfriend and Liam broke his nose. The boyfriend didn't last long after that, leaving Liv in a bit of a tailspin. She knows she wants to try for something more with Liam but how does she get that across to him. Enter her girl besties coming up with a plan to get Liam to cross a line that they haven't crossed yet. Will the girls' plan work, or will Liam hold out and make sure that their friendship doesn't cross the line that could ruin them.
I enjoyed this story so much that I immediately got book one. This was such an entertaining read, the drama, the funny bits, the naughty moments that were on freaking fire! Liv and Liam had so much chemistry that it fogged up my glasses. I give this 5 stars.
December 14, 2022
We met Liam and Olivia in Maggie’s debut book, Play Fake. We did get to see snippets of their issues and relationship from the outside (since the book was about their friends Mack and Waylon), but we never knew what was really happening. This book gave us the real events that brought them from friends to lovers.
Liam and Olivia have been best friends since high school. When a traumatic loss brings them even closer, it also closes the door on any type of romantic future for the pair. They end up choosing the same college, where Liam becomes the star quarterback of the football team. Olivia decides to ask him to tutor her in the bedroom because she’s sick of being a wallflower, but this request is laced with ulterior motives. Olivia is a girl who knows what she wants (*cough*Liam*cough*) even if she has to be a little sneaky in order to get it. Will he let go of his guilt from the past and give her all of himself?
I’m still shocked at how Maggie’s books HIT for me. I love everything about them. The characters, the plot, the heavy subjects…it’s all perfection. She is quickly becoming one of my favorites!!
Liam and Olivia have been best friends since high school. When a traumatic loss brings them even closer, it also closes the door on any type of romantic future for the pair. They end up choosing the same college, where Liam becomes the star quarterback of the football team. Olivia decides to ask him to tutor her in the bedroom because she’s sick of being a wallflower, but this request is laced with ulterior motives. Olivia is a girl who knows what she wants (*cough*Liam*cough*) even if she has to be a little sneaky in order to get it. Will he let go of his guilt from the past and give her all of himself?
I’m still shocked at how Maggie’s books HIT for me. I love everything about them. The characters, the plot, the heavy subjects…it’s all perfection. She is quickly becoming one of my favorites!!
December 19, 2022
Delay of Game by Maggie Rawdon is a friends to lovers, college sports romance. Liam and Liv have known each other since before college but became very close after a tragedy the summer before Freshman year. Liam has always been super protective of Liv and has banned any of his football player teammates from dating her and also kept away most other guys who tried to get close to her. But he never wanted to take the next step in their relationship, he was content with just having her as his friend because he never wanted to lose her. Liv has had a crush on Liam for awhile and desperately wants out of the friend zone with him, so she asks him for some help to build up her self confidence. She hopes that if they mess around she can finally move on and get over her little crush, only it backfires and her feelings only become stronger. This book was so good. I really loved the first book in this world, Play Fake and this book did not disappoint. Maggie Rawdon is starting to become a one click author for me.
Tropes:
*Grumpy/Sunshine*
*College Romance*
*Sports Romance*
*Friends to Lovers*
*Tutor*
Tropes:
*Grumpy/Sunshine*
*College Romance*
*Sports Romance*
*Friends to Lovers*
*Tutor*
January 6, 2023
More
Ok here we go! I loved loved loved this book. Waylon is still my favorite though. I love how the author gives you an epilogue but only about them so it leaves you guessing on the other people. Like is the next book gonna be Easton & Wren? Or what about Ben? Either way I'm ready now back to this book. I think the guilt was more of an issue with him & I had kind of hoped that maybe there was a secret letter or something from Tristan. Like maybe they had been on the verge of breaking up? I could totally understand if he had just died but the fact that it happened before freshman year? Seems a little too long to hold on to the guilt. Maybe it's just me. I loved the end when she was ready to dish out the tough love! He so deserved it & she handed it to him on a silver platter! The only thing I wanted more of was their communication. They never really talked, which I guess explains why everything was the way it was but still. Anyway I've rambled too much so I'll just finish & say it's totally worth it especially if you read the first & if not I recommend you do! So worth it & can't wait for the next couple! On to the next.
Ok here we go! I loved loved loved this book. Waylon is still my favorite though. I love how the author gives you an epilogue but only about them so it leaves you guessing on the other people. Like is the next book gonna be Easton & Wren? Or what about Ben? Either way I'm ready now back to this book. I think the guilt was more of an issue with him & I had kind of hoped that maybe there was a secret letter or something from Tristan. Like maybe they had been on the verge of breaking up? I could totally understand if he had just died but the fact that it happened before freshman year? Seems a little too long to hold on to the guilt. Maybe it's just me. I loved the end when she was ready to dish out the tough love! He so deserved it & she handed it to him on a silver platter! The only thing I wanted more of was their communication. They never really talked, which I guess explains why everything was the way it was but still. Anyway I've rambled too much so I'll just finish & say it's totally worth it especially if you read the first & if not I recommend you do! So worth it & can't wait for the next couple! On to the next.
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