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Branston Bandits #1
The Turnover
Riggs Malone. Star quarterback and captain of the football team. The boy all the girls wanted and all the boys wanted to be . My first love.
And the only person who ever broke me.
I have a great life. I’ve fulfilled my dream of running my own coffee shop-slash-library in my hometown, I own my own home, and I have the best group of friends a girl could ask for. Everything is perfect.
Or it was.
When a neighboring town starts its very own professional football franchise, he gets himself traded to be the starting quarterback of the Branston Bandits. And before I know it, he’s purchased the house next door, moving in with a neighborly smile like he didn’t destroy me all those years ago…
...when he made a disgusting bet with his teammates to take my V-card, which I was eagerly and naively willing to give him before I found out the truth.
Well, if Riggs Malone thinks it’s all water under the bridge, he has another thing coming. I don’t forgive easily, and I never forget. I’m about to make his life a living hell .
Let the prank war begin.
The Turnover is a steamy, enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy with lots of laughs, plenty of heat, and more than a few cookies that are...ahem...anatomically correct. And if you're worried about Riggs' ability to be redeemed, don't worry. While he did, in fact, make the bet, all wasn't as it seemed...
And the only person who ever broke me.
I have a great life. I’ve fulfilled my dream of running my own coffee shop-slash-library in my hometown, I own my own home, and I have the best group of friends a girl could ask for. Everything is perfect.
Or it was.
When a neighboring town starts its very own professional football franchise, he gets himself traded to be the starting quarterback of the Branston Bandits. And before I know it, he’s purchased the house next door, moving in with a neighborly smile like he didn’t destroy me all those years ago…
...when he made a disgusting bet with his teammates to take my V-card, which I was eagerly and naively willing to give him before I found out the truth.
Well, if Riggs Malone thinks it’s all water under the bridge, he has another thing coming. I don’t forgive easily, and I never forget. I’m about to make his life a living hell .
Let the prank war begin.
The Turnover is a steamy, enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy with lots of laughs, plenty of heat, and more than a few cookies that are...ahem...anatomically correct. And if you're worried about Riggs' ability to be redeemed, don't worry. While he did, in fact, make the bet, all wasn't as it seemed...
270 pages, Unknown Binding
First published February 10, 2023
444 people are currently reading
896 people want to read
About the author
Piper James
38 books287 followersPiper James lives in Idaho with her husband, two teenage sons, two cats, and a dog.
Her favorite things are romance novels, coffee, potato chips, and her Jeep Wrangler…and her family, of course. Seriously. She loves her family more than coffee and her jeep. *exaggerated wink*
When she’s not writing, she watches ghost shows and spends most of her time trying to convince her family their house is haunted. Because it is.
She wrote YA paranormal romance for 6 years under the name Wendi Wilson before giving into her desire to write spicy romcoms, and it was the best career decision she’s ever made…until she decides to write a book about the ghosts. Because they are definitely real.
Her favorite things are romance novels, coffee, potato chips, and her Jeep Wrangler…and her family, of course. Seriously. She loves her family more than coffee and her jeep. *exaggerated wink*
When she’s not writing, she watches ghost shows and spends most of her time trying to convince her family their house is haunted. Because it is.
She wrote YA paranormal romance for 6 years under the name Wendi Wilson before giving into her desire to write spicy romcoms, and it was the best career decision she’s ever made…until she decides to write a book about the ghosts. Because they are definitely real.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
February 2, 2023
Tessa and Riggs begin their story in high school where a bad bet quickly ends things. They pick back up as adults, but not until a prank war finally makes them work through the past.
I loved the premise of the book, especially because it’s football themed. There were a few inconsistencies with the football terminology, but I can look past those! I really enjoyed how the backstory was developed, but felt things were rushed once Tessa finds out the truth about what really happened back in high school.
Tessa and Riggs playfulness was refreshing. Their banter and prank war had me laughing out loud while reading! I appreciated that. It was a nice break from some of the more serious books I’ve read recently. I also really enjoyed Tessa’s friendship with her girlfriends. They reminded me of my girlfriends so I could relate to their group chat and how they all had Tessa’s back.
Overall it was a great book and I can’t wait to see what the next one has in store!
*I received an ARC copy of the book and this is my honest review*
I loved the premise of the book, especially because it’s football themed. There were a few inconsistencies with the football terminology, but I can look past those! I really enjoyed how the backstory was developed, but felt things were rushed once Tessa finds out the truth about what really happened back in high school.
Tessa and Riggs playfulness was refreshing. Their banter and prank war had me laughing out loud while reading! I appreciated that. It was a nice break from some of the more serious books I’ve read recently. I also really enjoyed Tessa’s friendship with her girlfriends. They reminded me of my girlfriends so I could relate to their group chat and how they all had Tessa’s back.
Overall it was a great book and I can’t wait to see what the next one has in store!
*I received an ARC copy of the book and this is my honest review*
July 11, 2024
4/5⭐️ 2.5/5🌶️ 4/5🎧
This was a quick, cute read/listen. It’s a classic story of the one that got away with a second chance romance. The history between Riggs and Tessa left bad blood between the two, more on Tessa’s side than Riggs’s. When football star Riggs Malone moves back home after 12 years, he has his eye on his prize right away and buys a home right next door to the one who got away. But when Tessa finds out he is her neighbor, a spiteful prank war turns into playful banter that I very much enjoyed. In pranking one another, Tessa and Riggs begin having fun and growing closer, letting go of past wrongdoings. To listen to this sweet little story play out the way it did put a smile on my face.
Cecile Foster and Josh Innerst did a good job on the dual narration.
This was a quick, cute read/listen. It’s a classic story of the one that got away with a second chance romance. The history between Riggs and Tessa left bad blood between the two, more on Tessa’s side than Riggs’s. When football star Riggs Malone moves back home after 12 years, he has his eye on his prize right away and buys a home right next door to the one who got away. But when Tessa finds out he is her neighbor, a spiteful prank war turns into playful banter that I very much enjoyed. In pranking one another, Tessa and Riggs begin having fun and growing closer, letting go of past wrongdoings. To listen to this sweet little story play out the way it did put a smile on my face.
Cecile Foster and Josh Innerst did a good job on the dual narration.
September 15, 2025
Read this one NFL Sunday because it seemed fitting. Wasn’t the best sports romance but it got me out of my back to school slump. I don’t think I’d be continuing with the series as the writing and plot felt basic and formulaic. It is a good comfort read!
July 30, 2025
dnf 25%. So it sounded cute, second chance with a bit of misunderstandings in the past where the mmc was a jerk. That's fine and dandy as long as he's sorry, but is he sorry? No! He goes around and thinks that Tessa should've forgiven him long ago. That it is all in the past now and how dare she stay angry after being manipulated. I am so mad I'm not even going to check my grammar for this review.
Maybe it gets better, maybe it doesn't. I'm not going to find out.
Maybe it gets better, maybe it doesn't. I'm not going to find out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2024
What a delightfully sweet and steamy second chance romance read. This is book 1 in James' Branston Bandits series and a wonderful start to a new series that can easily be read / listened to as a standalone. I loved the dual narration with Foster and Innerst - I will say there were times when the vocals for our lead male character Riggs was not as smooth as I would have hoped but overall, both narrators did a great job. I loved Riggs' character a do-good guy who got burned by not being honest and up front from the start and Tessa who couldn't bear to risk her heart yet again. I loved the football analogies, I loved the dual points of view, I love the brotherhood of the football team and Riggs' friends and the sisterhood of Tessa and her friends. I loved how well James delivered the time span, thought that was so well done. Overall, a well written, second chance romance read that is sweet and steamy and delivers some giggles and a beautiful HEA!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this readl
This book was given to me for free at my request and I voluntarily provided this review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this readl
October 12, 2025
In high school, it all started with a bet, but the feelings were real. 12 years later, Tessa is going about her life, happy in her own cafe and having fun with her best friends. Until Riggs moves back to town, into the house next to hers. That’s when the prank war begins, it’s petty and childish, but it’s effective. It gets them speaking again, after 12 years, Tessa hears the real story of the bet she overheard about her boyfriend taking her virginity.
There’s a mild third-act breakup, spicy scenes and funny pranks. She’s a book lover and he’s a football player, it’s a perfect match. Both main characters have strong support systems in the form of best friends, which I loved. It was an easy read and it’s the start of an interlinked series which I’ll be looking into now!
There’s a mild third-act breakup, spicy scenes and funny pranks. She’s a book lover and he’s a football player, it’s a perfect match. Both main characters have strong support systems in the form of best friends, which I loved. It was an easy read and it’s the start of an interlinked series which I’ll be looking into now!
January 22, 2023
Second chance romance, one of my favorites.
I really enjoyed this one! They knew each other in high school. She was quiet, a reader and he was the popular football player. Who asked HER out. I'm not going to get into specifics but it was brutal.
Fast forward and Tessa has her own bookstore/coffee shop and Riggs just signed onto a new team and moved back. Ruh roh.
It was a fun read. Little heartbreak from the past and some fun shenanigans in the present. Hot too, which is always a plus. I enjoyed their group of friends (I think sequels!) Who stood by the both of them.
Would totally recommend this one. It was a quick read with some good characters.
I really enjoyed this one! They knew each other in high school. She was quiet, a reader and he was the popular football player. Who asked HER out. I'm not going to get into specifics but it was brutal.
Fast forward and Tessa has her own bookstore/coffee shop and Riggs just signed onto a new team and moved back. Ruh roh.
It was a fun read. Little heartbreak from the past and some fun shenanigans in the present. Hot too, which is always a plus. I enjoyed their group of friends (I think sequels!) Who stood by the both of them.
Would totally recommend this one. It was a quick read with some good characters.
January 7, 2024
cute pallet cleanser
February 3, 2023
Second chance romance, a boy making a bet that he soon regrets: those are my fave type of books to read, and this one was no different!
This book was the prefect break from all the heavy fantasy I’ve been reading lately: it was funny, cute, steamy, and I liked that we got the whole story of how the bet came to be and what happened after.
The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that after the halfway mark things were just too fast paced for my liking. The beginning was great - it set the backstory up very nicely alongside the present day. But after Tessa was willing to hear Riggs out things just went from 0-100 real quick, and I was just left thinking ‘really?’
Overall, The Turnover was a fun romcom, as it normally is the case with Piper James books. I recommend this book for those of you looking for a quick, easy going, cutesy romance to cozy up with.
This book was the prefect break from all the heavy fantasy I’ve been reading lately: it was funny, cute, steamy, and I liked that we got the whole story of how the bet came to be and what happened after.
The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that after the halfway mark things were just too fast paced for my liking. The beginning was great - it set the backstory up very nicely alongside the present day. But after Tessa was willing to hear Riggs out things just went from 0-100 real quick, and I was just left thinking ‘really?’
Overall, The Turnover was a fun romcom, as it normally is the case with Piper James books. I recommend this book for those of you looking for a quick, easy going, cutesy romance to cozy up with.
September 24, 2023
2.5 Stars
March 9, 2025
Audiobook
January 25, 2023
Piper always knows how to start a new series and get you hooked to read every book that is in it. This book is no exception. Tessa and Riggs knew each other in high school, and dated until she found out something horrible that caused a rift. They haven't seen each other since. Now, he lives in the house next door, and she has to face him after all these years.
I loved seeing their relationship progress. The way that they were able to come back together after the time apart was adorable, and the way that they are with each other was amazing. I'm really interested to see what happens next in the series!
I loved seeing their relationship progress. The way that they were able to come back together after the time apart was adorable, and the way that they are with each other was amazing. I'm really interested to see what happens next in the series!
February 10, 2023
Given this as ArC and leaving my honest review. Where do I start, Riggs and Tessa’s story start with how these two know each other Riggs a popular footballer and Tessa the Nerdy bookworm are at the same high school things don’t go well if I’m honest it quite a heartbreaking story but that’s for you to find out when you read this fantastic book. The banter, chemistry and pranks will have you smiling the whole way through this read all I know is it a definite must read. There one more character that made me LOL they was the old teacher Miss Nelly. And now to move on to book 2 in the series Roxy and Blake’s story can’t wait to see who the others are paired of with 5 ⭐️ review from me
July 5, 2024
This is my first book by Piper James so I didn’t know what to expect. I enjoyed it and I’m so glad to have taken the chance.
Riggs is the star quarterback and captain of the football team. He’s the guy all the girls go weak at the knees for and all the guys want to be. He’s a jock, a sexy one at that. He asked out Tessa, who is the complete opposite of him, she’s a quiet and shy book nerd. They were a cute couple, however after Tess overhears a conversation Rigg has with someone and finds out the real reason why he’s in a relationship with her, she immediately breaks things off.
12 years later…. Now Riggs is a famous football player and has returned to his hometown only to find he’ll be living next door to Tessa.
Tessa still holds a massive grudge after everything happened in high school and now she and Riggs end up in this prank war of sorts. The chemistry is still there but will they put the history behind them?
This was such a fun, different and entertaining story. I couldn’t help but love Riggs and Tessa. I loved the chemistry between these two. You can’t help but the door for these two and you can tell these two are meant to be.
Highly recommend!
5 STARS!!
Riggs is the star quarterback and captain of the football team. He’s the guy all the girls go weak at the knees for and all the guys want to be. He’s a jock, a sexy one at that. He asked out Tessa, who is the complete opposite of him, she’s a quiet and shy book nerd. They were a cute couple, however after Tess overhears a conversation Rigg has with someone and finds out the real reason why he’s in a relationship with her, she immediately breaks things off.
12 years later…. Now Riggs is a famous football player and has returned to his hometown only to find he’ll be living next door to Tessa.
Tessa still holds a massive grudge after everything happened in high school and now she and Riggs end up in this prank war of sorts. The chemistry is still there but will they put the history behind them?
This was such a fun, different and entertaining story. I couldn’t help but love Riggs and Tessa. I loved the chemistry between these two. You can’t help but the door for these two and you can tell these two are meant to be.
Highly recommend!
5 STARS!!
July 16, 2024
The Turnover, narrated by Cecily Foster and Josh Innerst, is a delightful enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy. Tessa's dream life shatters when her high school love, Riggs Malone, moves in next door. Riggs, now a quarterback for the Branston Bandits, once made a humiliating bet to take Tessa's virginity. Fueled by past hurt, Tessa starts a prank war, but their playful clashes rekindle old feelings. Cecily and Josh's narration brought the characters to life, capturing their emotions perfectly. Despite a rushed ending, the story's humor, chemistry, and heartwarming reconciliation made it an enjoyable listen. This audiobook is a fun, steamy escape with great performances and lots of laughs.
February 18, 2023
Method: ebook
Rating: 3/5 stars
H rating: 4/5 - Riggs
h rating: 4/5 - Tessa
Drama: 3/5
Thoughts: Will add to review later...
June 26, 2024
Entertaining & Delightful! Great Story & Narration🎧
The Turnover
Branston Bandits, Book 1
By: Piper James
Narrated by: Cecily Foster, Josh Innerst
This is a fun and fabulous romantic comedy and the story has the perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions and a steamy second chance romance. Tessa White was a nerdy book worm in high school, so it surprised her that Riggs Malone asked her out on a date. Riggs was the star quarterback of the school’s football team and part of the popular crowd. Things were going well for them and she was falling in love with him, but then he broke her heart and it was a heartbreak she had never got over. He left to play professional football, and she was happy to not have to see him ever again, but he returns to their hometown when he was picked up by the new team in the neighboring town. Tessa was Riggs’ one regret and when house hunting he found out the house next to hers was for sale, so he bought it without hesitation. It was time for him to make amends, except she wants nothing to do with him and won’t even hear him out, but he is determined and not about to give up. I loved how everything played out in this book and the story captivated my attention from start to end. It was great watching these two go head to head, the shenanigans and pranks were hysterical and I was rooting for them the entire time. Piper James, thank you for another wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Cecily Foster and Josh Innerst did a fabulous job bringing these characters to life, understood who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting. I loved how they took their roles and made them their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined they would sound. Both grasped all aspects of their character’s personality, and were fabulous performing the roles of the secondary characters, too. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to and their performance elevated this story to another level. Thank you for the wonderful listen.
The Turnover
Branston Bandits, Book 1
By: Piper James
Narrated by: Cecily Foster, Josh Innerst
This is a fun and fabulous romantic comedy and the story has the perfect balance of drama, humor, heartfelt emotions and a steamy second chance romance. Tessa White was a nerdy book worm in high school, so it surprised her that Riggs Malone asked her out on a date. Riggs was the star quarterback of the school’s football team and part of the popular crowd. Things were going well for them and she was falling in love with him, but then he broke her heart and it was a heartbreak she had never got over. He left to play professional football, and she was happy to not have to see him ever again, but he returns to their hometown when he was picked up by the new team in the neighboring town. Tessa was Riggs’ one regret and when house hunting he found out the house next to hers was for sale, so he bought it without hesitation. It was time for him to make amends, except she wants nothing to do with him and won’t even hear him out, but he is determined and not about to give up. I loved how everything played out in this book and the story captivated my attention from start to end. It was great watching these two go head to head, the shenanigans and pranks were hysterical and I was rooting for them the entire time. Piper James, thank you for another wonderful story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 Cecily Foster and Josh Innerst did a fabulous job bringing these characters to life, understood who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting. I loved how they took their roles and made them their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined they would sound. Both grasped all aspects of their character’s personality, and were fabulous performing the roles of the secondary characters, too. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to and their performance elevated this story to another level. Thank you for the wonderful listen.
July 14, 2024
This was my first audiobook from this author and I am already listening to the next standalone in this sports romance series haha. I loved the pranks between the loves and they kept one upping the ante and make us readers laugh and smile, which is refreshing! I loved the dirty cookies and the goats hahah and how Tessa revealed things at the end, so funny and cute!
The steam was good in this one, I enjoyed the getting to know them scenes and seeing them from younger years to now. The bet was horrible but I thought the twist on it was tactful. I do like how Tessa wouldn’t take his crap right off the bat but listened to him when he explained and then they could really take their chemistry to the next level. I loved h I’m defending her and taking her out, his reactions to her were so swoon worthy. I do wish the pacing was a little bit different TS more a personal preference I think. I know these are supposed to be quick listens but I have a tough time giving books 5 stars when they don’t have a ton of time to develop the relationship. Oh and I loved that Tessa knows football and could keep up with Riggs with his updates and playing. The ending was so cute, love love love!
Narration was great, I love the female narrator in other books and she did a good job here too! This was my first listen of the male narrator and I think he did a good job too and I would definitely listen to him again after this series. He brought a lot of emotion in this one, his regret, excitement, sadness, frustration, etc. I could feel Riggs so hard in this story and also he did a great job with all the friends p, who we get their stories too which is so exciting. 4.5/5 stars for the narration from me 😊
🎧 Audiobook Obsession Reviewer - Flock Team 🎧
The steam was good in this one, I enjoyed the getting to know them scenes and seeing them from younger years to now. The bet was horrible but I thought the twist on it was tactful. I do like how Tessa wouldn’t take his crap right off the bat but listened to him when he explained and then they could really take their chemistry to the next level. I loved h I’m defending her and taking her out, his reactions to her were so swoon worthy. I do wish the pacing was a little bit different TS more a personal preference I think. I know these are supposed to be quick listens but I have a tough time giving books 5 stars when they don’t have a ton of time to develop the relationship. Oh and I loved that Tessa knows football and could keep up with Riggs with his updates and playing. The ending was so cute, love love love!
Narration was great, I love the female narrator in other books and she did a good job here too! This was my first listen of the male narrator and I think he did a good job too and I would definitely listen to him again after this series. He brought a lot of emotion in this one, his regret, excitement, sadness, frustration, etc. I could feel Riggs so hard in this story and also he did a great job with all the friends p, who we get their stories too which is so exciting. 4.5/5 stars for the narration from me 😊
🎧 Audiobook Obsession Reviewer - Flock Team 🎧
March 4, 2023
This Story has been by far one of my absolute favorites. I will be reading this one again. Author Piper James did one heck of the story. This story made me cry and laugh so many time. I even have a dislike for one person, but that is what makes a fantastic book. Anyways here is my snipt of the book:
Riggs Malone has been signed to the Bandits and is returning to his home town of Sublime. Tessa White and Riggs Malone have history and it isn’t a pleasant memory for Tessa. Tessa says to herself you are strong and independent and he doesn’t have the power to hurt you no more. Tessa has a flash back to 12 years ago. Riggs literally buys the house next to Tessa. Riggs hasn’t been able to stop thinking about Tessa. He did tell her the truth (the bet) the last time he saw her while she was kicking him out her house. He hopes they will just be able to laugh about their teenage years and move on. Tessa tells her friends how am I suppose to pretend he doesn’t exist when I could run into him being he lives next door to me. Tessa friend Roxy cracks me up with her term “Foot Balls.” Riggs finds out that Tessa is still pissed. Riggs is hopeful and Tessa will come to her senses. Miss Nelly cracks me up too about the name of her cat and Riggs statement. I was dying laughing at the “cookies”. I cried my eyes out when Riggs finally came clean to Tessa. I busted out laughing when she said “you really are the GOAT. That prick from high school Hollis is a massive douche bag. So happy how it end. I hope there will be a sequel to Riggs and Tessa story. The teaser for book too with Miles and Roxy I absolutely loved. Need to read that next.
Riggs Malone has been signed to the Bandits and is returning to his home town of Sublime. Tessa White and Riggs Malone have history and it isn’t a pleasant memory for Tessa. Tessa says to herself you are strong and independent and he doesn’t have the power to hurt you no more. Tessa has a flash back to 12 years ago. Riggs literally buys the house next to Tessa. Riggs hasn’t been able to stop thinking about Tessa. He did tell her the truth (the bet) the last time he saw her while she was kicking him out her house. He hopes they will just be able to laugh about their teenage years and move on. Tessa tells her friends how am I suppose to pretend he doesn’t exist when I could run into him being he lives next door to me. Tessa friend Roxy cracks me up with her term “Foot Balls.” Riggs finds out that Tessa is still pissed. Riggs is hopeful and Tessa will come to her senses. Miss Nelly cracks me up too about the name of her cat and Riggs statement. I was dying laughing at the “cookies”. I cried my eyes out when Riggs finally came clean to Tessa. I busted out laughing when she said “you really are the GOAT. That prick from high school Hollis is a massive douche bag. So happy how it end. I hope there will be a sequel to Riggs and Tessa story. The teaser for book too with Miles and Roxy I absolutely loved. Need to read that next.
June 27, 2024
The Turnover
Branston Bandits, Book 1
By: Piper James
Narrated by: Cecily Foster, Josh Innerst
Piper James always brings a smile to my face with her funny, romantic stories. This one adds on sports and second chances which adds that sparkle to it. Riggs and Tessa were high school sweethearts until she overheard why he was dating her and broke things off. Now a famous football player, he is back in his hometown only to find he is living next door to the woman. Still carrying that grudge, and all the feelings she had for Riggs, the fun begins. Pranks and snarky comebacks fly between the two as the foreplay begins. But is back then the same as now? Will that chemistry be enough or do the flames die out? This is a funny and thoughtful story of the chance for redemption and understanding, love and rekindling. I loved this first installment in the Branston Bandits and I can't wait to meet more of this new team!
Cecily Foster and Josh Innerst are the perfect picks to narrate this romantic comedy. Foster carries all the snarky, vulnerable, funny comments that come out of Tessa. She is filled with all kinds of feelings and Foster is impeccable at each delivery. Innerst is right there with her, keeping up with all the feelings Riggs dealt with, the planning mind of pranks and the romantic side that keeps her coming back. I loved these two and thought the way they played off of each other is what made this narration so good.
Branston Bandits, Book 1
By: Piper James
Narrated by: Cecily Foster, Josh Innerst
Piper James always brings a smile to my face with her funny, romantic stories. This one adds on sports and second chances which adds that sparkle to it. Riggs and Tessa were high school sweethearts until she overheard why he was dating her and broke things off. Now a famous football player, he is back in his hometown only to find he is living next door to the woman. Still carrying that grudge, and all the feelings she had for Riggs, the fun begins. Pranks and snarky comebacks fly between the two as the foreplay begins. But is back then the same as now? Will that chemistry be enough or do the flames die out? This is a funny and thoughtful story of the chance for redemption and understanding, love and rekindling. I loved this first installment in the Branston Bandits and I can't wait to meet more of this new team!
Cecily Foster and Josh Innerst are the perfect picks to narrate this romantic comedy. Foster carries all the snarky, vulnerable, funny comments that come out of Tessa. She is filled with all kinds of feelings and Foster is impeccable at each delivery. Innerst is right there with her, keeping up with all the feelings Riggs dealt with, the planning mind of pranks and the romantic side that keeps her coming back. I loved these two and thought the way they played off of each other is what made this narration so good.
August 15, 2024
✨Bookish Review✨
2/5🌶️ 4/5🎧 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just finished my first Piper James book, and OMG, it was so good! 📚✨ I needed a light and easy read to cleanse my palate, and this was perfect.
The story follows Riggs and Tessa, who were high school sweethearts due to a bet. Tessa finds out and ends things with Riggs. 12 years later, Riggs is back home playing professional football, and they begin a prank war that leads to something more.
🎧📚🎧Cecily Foster and Josh Innerst did an amazing job with the narration. At times, I forgot I was even listening to a book! They really brought the characters to life.
Overall, I loved this book! It was a fun and flirty read that I devoured in no time. If you're looking for a quick and enjoyable escape, I highly recommend The Turnover!
Here are some things I loved about this book:
❤️The banter between Riggs and Tessa was hilarious and kept me entertained.
❤️The plot was predictable but still enjoyable.
❤️The narration was top-notch.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a light and easy read. It's perfect for a beach day or a lazy afternoon.
2/5🌶️ 4/5🎧 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just finished my first Piper James book, and OMG, it was so good! 📚✨ I needed a light and easy read to cleanse my palate, and this was perfect.
The story follows Riggs and Tessa, who were high school sweethearts due to a bet. Tessa finds out and ends things with Riggs. 12 years later, Riggs is back home playing professional football, and they begin a prank war that leads to something more.
🎧📚🎧Cecily Foster and Josh Innerst did an amazing job with the narration. At times, I forgot I was even listening to a book! They really brought the characters to life.
Overall, I loved this book! It was a fun and flirty read that I devoured in no time. If you're looking for a quick and enjoyable escape, I highly recommend The Turnover!
Here are some things I loved about this book:
❤️The banter between Riggs and Tessa was hilarious and kept me entertained.
❤️The plot was predictable but still enjoyable.
❤️The narration was top-notch.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a light and easy read. It's perfect for a beach day or a lazy afternoon.
March 12, 2023
As with all of Piper James’ books, I really loved this one too. Tessa and Riggs are too cute together, and I found myself smiling at their silly antics.
Twelve-year prior, the start of something beautiful began, but one stupid move under good intentions lead to heartbreak and miscommunications and tore it all apart. But then… fate brings them back together… as neighbors.
This book was such a funny enemies-to-lovers/second chance romance book that truly had me laughing at their prank war. The goat, the cookies—hilarious. Sure, some of the stuff was silly and maybe a little juvenile, but that’s what made it great. It was light-hearted and fun—but also, in a way, therapeutic for the both of them, because while their lives had moved on, their hearts never truly had, and this allowed them to find their way back to one another. And find their way back they did.
Like all of Ms. James’ books, The Turnover had the perfect mix of humor, emotional ups and downs, and a blend of sweet and spicy romance. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Twelve-year prior, the start of something beautiful began, but one stupid move under good intentions lead to heartbreak and miscommunications and tore it all apart. But then… fate brings them back together… as neighbors.
This book was such a funny enemies-to-lovers/second chance romance book that truly had me laughing at their prank war. The goat, the cookies—hilarious. Sure, some of the stuff was silly and maybe a little juvenile, but that’s what made it great. It was light-hearted and fun—but also, in a way, therapeutic for the both of them, because while their lives had moved on, their hearts never truly had, and this allowed them to find their way back to one another. And find their way back they did.
Like all of Ms. James’ books, The Turnover had the perfect mix of humor, emotional ups and downs, and a blend of sweet and spicy romance. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
February 2, 2023
Tessa and Riggs! Such a great book to start the Branston Bandits series. Tessa is just living her life when her high school ex comes back into town. Only now he’s the most famous quarterback in football, and he moves in right next door.
I love how Tessa still wanted to hate him after all this time, and Riggs felt bad and tried hard to find a way to explain what really happened all those years ago. She was quiet and nerdy and he was the popular jock. He started dating her under false pretenses, and ended up falling for her but it all blew up in their faces when the truth came out.
It was lovely to see them clear the air and rekindle what they had. The pranks were the best too. My favorite pranks were the rattle snakes and the yard cookies.
And the ending was perfect these two! I look forward to seeing characters in the next book in the series too.
I love how Tessa still wanted to hate him after all this time, and Riggs felt bad and tried hard to find a way to explain what really happened all those years ago. She was quiet and nerdy and he was the popular jock. He started dating her under false pretenses, and ended up falling for her but it all blew up in their faces when the truth came out.
It was lovely to see them clear the air and rekindle what they had. The pranks were the best too. My favorite pranks were the rattle snakes and the yard cookies.
And the ending was perfect these two! I look forward to seeing characters in the next book in the series too.
February 12, 2023
Super Sweet Read
I really loved the twist on the “second chance, he’s my new neighbor” trope. The prank war was fun! This was a fast, easy read.
I usually hate the miscommunication trope. But this was really well done. The miscommunication happened 12 years ago, in high school. He moves back home (right next door), so this is really about coming together after the incident happened. The angst (and other problems that come up) aren’t long and drawn out, which I really appreciate. The MCs are both really likable and you are rooting for them right off the bat.
One caveat for those not familiar with American football, there are lots of football references that may not make a lot of sense. I think the book will still be enjoyable, but just know going into it that you may not get all the references.
I really loved the twist on the “second chance, he’s my new neighbor” trope. The prank war was fun! This was a fast, easy read.
I usually hate the miscommunication trope. But this was really well done. The miscommunication happened 12 years ago, in high school. He moves back home (right next door), so this is really about coming together after the incident happened. The angst (and other problems that come up) aren’t long and drawn out, which I really appreciate. The MCs are both really likable and you are rooting for them right off the bat.
One caveat for those not familiar with American football, there are lots of football references that may not make a lot of sense. I think the book will still be enjoyable, but just know going into it that you may not get all the references.
January 11, 2025
Not sure where to start with this book, but it made me angry at so many points. My main issue is with how the female mc is infantilized by the male mc. Many times throughout this book the female mc is genuinely angry at something that the male mc has done and yet he disregards it by saying "oh she's adorable when she's angry". This happens multiple times and is a disgusting dismissal of the female mc's very valid emotions! The "bet" that this book revolves around is so twisted in its attempt to make the male mc look like a hero that it's ridiculous. And then the female mc is made to apologise for getting angry about it! Also there are multiple graphic sex scenes between a 17 and an 18 year old. And if I ever have to read the words "innocent virgins in his orbit" ever again, it will be too soon.
February 10, 2023
One sitting Read! When I read the synopsis of this book and saw there was a prank war, I groaned. I am not one who enjoys pranks, but, this was the most wholesomely adorable prank war and it was a great way to help the characters find their way back to one another.
This was also a great introduction to this new cast of characters. Tessa and Riggs are awesome. They are both loving, outgoing three dimensional characters with a great group of friends. I look forward to seeing their friends love stories unfold.
If there is one thing to nitpick it is the fact that this world follows a very similar layout as other small town series’ by the author. With that being said, it will not stop me from reading the series.
TW: Virginity Bet
🌶🌶🌶
HEA
This was also a great introduction to this new cast of characters. Tessa and Riggs are awesome. They are both loving, outgoing three dimensional characters with a great group of friends. I look forward to seeing their friends love stories unfold.
If there is one thing to nitpick it is the fact that this world follows a very similar layout as other small town series’ by the author. With that being said, it will not stop me from reading the series.
TW: Virginity Bet
🌶🌶🌶
HEA
March 5, 2023
This is the first book in the series and the first book I have read by this author but it won’t be the last of either. I was hooked from the start and the prank wars added an element of surprise and humour that really added to the reader’s enjoyment.
The characters were great Riggs is a sweetheart and Tessa is fun and feisty. I could happily read more of their antics in other books. There were also some interesting side characters who added humour and sparkle to the storyline.
I’m a huge sports fan but as American Football is not a sport I’m overly familiar with on this side of the pond it was an interesting setting with many references probably getting missed slightly.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I’m already looking forward to reading more by the author.
The characters were great Riggs is a sweetheart and Tessa is fun and feisty. I could happily read more of their antics in other books. There were also some interesting side characters who added humour and sparkle to the storyline.
I’m a huge sports fan but as American Football is not a sport I’m overly familiar with on this side of the pond it was an interesting setting with many references probably getting missed slightly.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I’m already looking forward to reading more by the author.
September 12, 2023
Everything I Always Wanted in an Adult Romance
This book has it all, a beautiful nerd, a caring, stacked hero,sweetness, holarious fun, good friends, a contemptible interferer to bring on the right amount of angst, and hot lovemaking - LOTS of it in delicious detail.
It warrants a place among my favourite books of this trope on my digital bookshelf, and is certainly worth reading again.
To my way of thinking, books of this genre miss out on what the lovers do about the (in this case, many) wet spots - particularly when condoms are not used!
Some details on tender intimate after-the-act cleanups of the slippery results would also be nice. After all, that's what passionate lovers do!
This book has it all, a beautiful nerd, a caring, stacked hero,sweetness, holarious fun, good friends, a contemptible interferer to bring on the right amount of angst, and hot lovemaking - LOTS of it in delicious detail.
It warrants a place among my favourite books of this trope on my digital bookshelf, and is certainly worth reading again.
To my way of thinking, books of this genre miss out on what the lovers do about the (in this case, many) wet spots - particularly when condoms are not used!
Some details on tender intimate after-the-act cleanups of the slippery results would also be nice. After all, that's what passionate lovers do!
July 3, 2024
4 ⭐️
3 🌶️
4 🎧
This was my first Piper James book and I really liked it! It was ridiculous at times with the football puns and the different pranks definitely had me chuckling too 🤣
Tessa and Riggs relationship had lots of ups and downs and it all stemmed from miscommunication back in high school. I was so happy when Riggs was finally able to tell her what happened and to clear the air. I really liked their chemistry from day 1 and even more after their reunion years later.
I enjoyed the audio a lot and felt like Cecily foster did a fantastic job portraying Tessas character. Josh Innersts voice wasn’t my fav only bc certain times he was trying to be seductive he was just whisperbreathing heavily, but overall he did a good job of depicting Riggs.
3 🌶️
4 🎧
This was my first Piper James book and I really liked it! It was ridiculous at times with the football puns and the different pranks definitely had me chuckling too 🤣
Tessa and Riggs relationship had lots of ups and downs and it all stemmed from miscommunication back in high school. I was so happy when Riggs was finally able to tell her what happened and to clear the air. I really liked their chemistry from day 1 and even more after their reunion years later.
I enjoyed the audio a lot and felt like Cecily foster did a fantastic job portraying Tessas character. Josh Innersts voice wasn’t my fav only bc certain times he was trying to be seductive he was just whisperbreathing heavily, but overall he did a good job of depicting Riggs.
February 4, 2023
Another utterly delightful book by Piper James!
A second chance for romance comes about when Riggs Malone moves back to his hometown to quarterback the new football team and buys the house next to his high school sweetheart, Tessa White - something she is less than pleased about thanks to their history.
The most delightful prank war ensues - but will it be enough to win back Tessa?
Riggs is a swoon-worthy character who knows what he's done wrong and atones for it. I loved the prank war, and the heat between Tessa and Riggs is fantastic.
Who wouldn't love a book that involves football, hot jocks, books, coffee, goats, and edible dicks?
A second chance for romance comes about when Riggs Malone moves back to his hometown to quarterback the new football team and buys the house next to his high school sweetheart, Tessa White - something she is less than pleased about thanks to their history.
The most delightful prank war ensues - but will it be enough to win back Tessa?
Riggs is a swoon-worthy character who knows what he's done wrong and atones for it. I loved the prank war, and the heat between Tessa and Riggs is fantastic.
Who wouldn't love a book that involves football, hot jocks, books, coffee, goats, and edible dicks?
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