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Waverly Wildcats #3
Scoring Sutton
DJ Parker is a Grade A Pr*ck…
The guy struts around campus like he’s God’s gift to Wildcat football, but I know the truth.
He’s arrogant, obnoxious, and terrible in bed.
Two years ago, we hooked up and the only memorable thing about it was the fact that he called me the wrong name and ghosted me afterward. So when he moves in next door, who could blame me for wanting a little revenge?
Too bad my prank didn’t go as planned. Now my gymnastics scholarship is on the line and I’m stuck playing Waverly’s mascot for the rest of the semester.
The only thing worse than the fur suit? Cheering for the guy who shattered my confidence.
Parker is everywhere I look these days, and time has done nothing to diminish our chemistry, so when he vows to redeem himself and suggests an enemies-with-benefits arrangement, I’m down.
After all, Parker and I will never be anything more… Not when we’re fighting for the same internship. Only one of us can finish first, and this time, it’s going to be me.
The guy struts around campus like he’s God’s gift to Wildcat football, but I know the truth.
He’s arrogant, obnoxious, and terrible in bed.
Two years ago, we hooked up and the only memorable thing about it was the fact that he called me the wrong name and ghosted me afterward. So when he moves in next door, who could blame me for wanting a little revenge?
Too bad my prank didn’t go as planned. Now my gymnastics scholarship is on the line and I’m stuck playing Waverly’s mascot for the rest of the semester.
The only thing worse than the fur suit? Cheering for the guy who shattered my confidence.
Parker is everywhere I look these days, and time has done nothing to diminish our chemistry, so when he vows to redeem himself and suggests an enemies-with-benefits arrangement, I’m down.
After all, Parker and I will never be anything more… Not when we’re fighting for the same internship. Only one of us can finish first, and this time, it’s going to be me.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
332 people are currently reading
1644 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bonds
20 books573 followersJennifer Bonds is the USA Today bestselling author of sizzling contemporary romance with sassy heroines, sexy alphas, and a whole lot of mischief. She’s a sucker for enemies-to-lovers stories, laugh-out-loud banter, and over-the-top grand gestures. Jennifer lives in Pennsylvania, where her overactive imagination and weakness for reality TV keep life interesting. She's lucky enough to live with her own real-life hero, two adorable (and sometimes crazy) children, and one rambunctious K9. Loves Buffy, Mexican food, a solid Netflix binge, the Winchester brothers, cupcakes, and all things zombie. Sings off-key.
You can also connect with Jen @jbondswrites
https://www.tiktok.com/jbondswrites
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You can also connect with Jen @jbondswrites
https://www.tiktok.com/jbondswrites
https://www.instagram.com/jbondswrites
http://www.facebook.com/jbondswrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
October 18, 2024
I liked the writing I liked the plot BUT I didn't like how fast she changed her mind after all these years hating him. Like come on girl give me a break.
September 26, 2023
Hooked
It was a good read. I enjoyed it
The banter was so good . Sutton was so badass yet kind
It was a good read. I enjoyed it
The banter was so good . Sutton was so badass yet kind
January 26, 2025
¿Mi mayor problema? No me gustó para nada Sutton. Me pareció un poco (muy) desagradable su actitud. Siento que no es el tipo de persona con la que emparejaría a Parker.
Hasta ahora es mi menos favorito😶
Lo bueno es que se viene la historia de Vaughn! Hasta ahora como personaje secundario me ha encantado, espero que cumpla las expectativas🙏
Hasta ahora es mi menos favorito😶
Lo bueno es que se viene la historia de Vaughn! Hasta ahora como personaje secundario me ha encantado, espero que cumpla las expectativas🙏
March 10, 2025
I love a book with great banter so I was excited to start this. Sutton finds herself living next door to DJ Parker…the same DJ who ghosted her after a hookup two years ago. Except he doesn’t remember her and is confused as to why she doesn’t like him. What’s a little harmless prank between enemies right? When it backfires Sutton finds herself in the Wildcat mascot costume to serve her community service….
The narrators did a great job. I especially loved listening to the banter - and oh the tension between them!! We get this great back and forth and some good spicy scenes too with their “enemies with benefits” agreement!
Sutton is smart and strong and so dedicated to her sport. We get to really see her confidence grow. Parker won me over! He was charming and fun - we get good character growth from both of them and I loved how he really tried to “right the wrongs” from the past!
✨What To Expect:
💖New Adult Romance
🏈Football Romance
✌️Second Chance
❤️🔥Enemies to Lovers…with Benefits
🌤️Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🔥He Falls First
🐱She is The Mascot
😂All The Banter
The narrators did a great job. I especially loved listening to the banter - and oh the tension between them!! We get this great back and forth and some good spicy scenes too with their “enemies with benefits” agreement!
Sutton is smart and strong and so dedicated to her sport. We get to really see her confidence grow. Parker won me over! He was charming and fun - we get good character growth from both of them and I loved how he really tried to “right the wrongs” from the past!
✨What To Expect:
💖New Adult Romance
🏈Football Romance
✌️Second Chance
❤️🔥Enemies to Lovers…with Benefits
🌤️Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🔥He Falls First
🐱She is The Mascot
😂All The Banter
October 2, 2023
As a Latina, I am annoyed at best, and offended at worst at this attempt at representation. From what I gather the author is a white American woman, I am not sure what drove her to have Sutton be a Latina.
But I can tell you that making your “Latina” FMC have a classically Latine last name, and having her drop a Spanish word or two every other sentence when speaking to her English speaking American friends is not the move. If you were to remove these elements Sutton would read like a white American 20 something woman, which gives me the impression that Sutton was made latine to make her have some semblance of a personality other than her rage mode being triggered at all times. I’ll give you this, having Spanish phrases in her internal monologue was probably the only thing that was done right, because sometimes the stupidity of the people around you bypasses the English insults and goes straight into the Spanish ones.
I was getting more and more frustrated every time she “casually” dropped a Spanish word in her speaking dialogue, that once I got to like 40% I couldn’t seriously read it and so I skimmed. Like a lot. The rest of the book in fact.
I was not engaged in the characters or in the story and by story I mean the crumbs of the plot underneath all the physical aspects of these character’s lives, which don’t get me started on.
This for sure wasn’t for me. 1.5 stars rounded down.
But I can tell you that making your “Latina” FMC have a classically Latine last name, and having her drop a Spanish word or two every other sentence when speaking to her English speaking American friends is not the move. If you were to remove these elements Sutton would read like a white American 20 something woman, which gives me the impression that Sutton was made latine to make her have some semblance of a personality other than her rage mode being triggered at all times. I’ll give you this, having Spanish phrases in her internal monologue was probably the only thing that was done right, because sometimes the stupidity of the people around you bypasses the English insults and goes straight into the Spanish ones.
I was getting more and more frustrated every time she “casually” dropped a Spanish word in her speaking dialogue, that once I got to like 40% I couldn’t seriously read it and so I skimmed. Like a lot. The rest of the book in fact.
I was not engaged in the characters or in the story and by story I mean the crumbs of the plot underneath all the physical aspects of these character’s lives, which don’t get me started on.
This for sure wasn’t for me. 1.5 stars rounded down.
April 30, 2023
I’m so happy I discovered this series! I see the author has a thing for a two-part story, with the first half building the relationship, and the second half dedicated to the characters dealing with their personal problems so, in the end, they can enter the relationship fully involved. And I’m loving this .
I enjoyed how Sutton and Parker get together. They have history, though Parker doesn’t remember, and maybe Sutton remembers too much. Until Sutton accidentally reveals what happened that made her hate him, and Parker gives his side of the story, I admit that I didn’t know how to feel about him. He seemed so charming and nice, why would he treat Sutton like that? The author takes her sweet time to reveal what really happened a few years before, and in the meantime, she builds some tension between the characters. There’s attraction, and while Parker is all in, Sutton’s reluctance and her witty comebacks make for a delicious foreplay-ish banter.
Their struggles don’t end when they’re finally together. With the idea that people need more than just a partner to feel complete, Sutton and Parker being in a relationship doesn’t mean that all is fine. They have hangups that threaten their blooming love. I love that the problem wasn’t that they aren’t perfect–on the contrary, they support and help each other. But the wounds are deep and can’t be healed just by someone accepting them. They need to heal by themselves, so they can fully be together. I thought it was very mature of them, which is rare in college age characters.
Another really mature thing, which also reflects on the author and her choices: they realize that they’re both responsible for their relationship’s failure. Of course, at first, they blame each other, but once they’re working on themselves, Parker and Sutton put the blame on themselves, and they meet halfway for the grand gesture. They both grovel. I loved that.
There are a lot of funny moments, some more emotionals, and the sexy times are real hot. I loved that the side characters had a real impact on the main characters outside of their relationship. Parker’s teammates have their own story going on–though they aren’t detailed here at all, as they have their own books–and Sutton’s friends are their own characters with their own life.
On top of that, there’s real sports in my sports romance, and I couldn’t be happier. And not only football, which is at the center of the story, but also gymnastic, and a bit of behind the scene, especially about mascots. On the field and off the field, with a subtle critic about how football eclipses all other sports regarding funds and enthusiasm. An athlete is an athlete. And sometimes a human in love.
Quickie
- Series: Waverly Wildcats #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #sports romance #football #second chance #enemies to lovers #opposites attract
- Triggers: mild psychological abuse, learning disability
- Main couple: Sutton Cruz & DJ Parker
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I loved how they helped and supported each other
- – Sutton’s punishment, while a great premise, seemed a bit too much
I enjoyed how Sutton and Parker get together. They have history, though Parker doesn’t remember, and maybe Sutton remembers too much. Until Sutton accidentally reveals what happened that made her hate him, and Parker gives his side of the story, I admit that I didn’t know how to feel about him. He seemed so charming and nice, why would he treat Sutton like that? The author takes her sweet time to reveal what really happened a few years before, and in the meantime, she builds some tension between the characters. There’s attraction, and while Parker is all in, Sutton’s reluctance and her witty comebacks make for a delicious foreplay-ish banter.
Their struggles don’t end when they’re finally together. With the idea that people need more than just a partner to feel complete, Sutton and Parker being in a relationship doesn’t mean that all is fine. They have hangups that threaten their blooming love. I love that the problem wasn’t that they aren’t perfect–on the contrary, they support and help each other. But the wounds are deep and can’t be healed just by someone accepting them. They need to heal by themselves, so they can fully be together. I thought it was very mature of them, which is rare in college age characters.
Another really mature thing, which also reflects on the author and her choices: they realize that they’re both responsible for their relationship’s failure. Of course, at first, they blame each other, but once they’re working on themselves, Parker and Sutton put the blame on themselves, and they meet halfway for the grand gesture. They both grovel. I loved that.
There are a lot of funny moments, some more emotionals, and the sexy times are real hot. I loved that the side characters had a real impact on the main characters outside of their relationship. Parker’s teammates have their own story going on–though they aren’t detailed here at all, as they have their own books–and Sutton’s friends are their own characters with their own life.
On top of that, there’s real sports in my sports romance, and I couldn’t be happier. And not only football, which is at the center of the story, but also gymnastic, and a bit of behind the scene, especially about mascots. On the field and off the field, with a subtle critic about how football eclipses all other sports regarding funds and enthusiasm. An athlete is an athlete. And sometimes a human in love.
Quickie
- Series: Waverly Wildcats #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #sports romance #football #second chance #enemies to lovers #opposites attract
- Triggers: mild psychological abuse, learning disability
- Main couple: Sutton Cruz & DJ Parker
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + I loved how they helped and supported each other
- – Sutton’s punishment, while a great premise, seemed a bit too much
March 2, 2025
4 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️ | 4.5 🎧
What to Expect:
- College Sports Romance
- Gymnast FMC
- Football Player MMC
- Enemies to Lovers
- Neighbors to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
- Second Chance
- Opposites Attract
We are back in the world of the Waverly Wildcats for Sutton and DJ's story. I enjoyed their hilarious enemies to lovers, sports romance. Sutton is on the Waverly gymnastics team. When the team comes back to campus to find their gym is closed, they are forced to share a space with the football team. Sutton previously hooked up with one of the players and things didn't go well. Naturally she now wants nothing to do with that player nor the team. A prank on the football team lands Sutton in hot water. Her punishment? She has to be the Waverly Wildcat mascot during football games, forcing her to spend time with the one person she would rather avoid. Making matters worse, they end up being neighbors and partners for a class project. The more time Sutton and DJ spend together, the more Sutton realizes that DJ may not be as bad as she thought.
This story is really cute. I loved that DJ was determined to have a "do over" after finding out why Sutton disliked him so much. DJ and Sutton were complete opposites, but they worked so well together. They had amazing chemistry and I loved their banter. Both of them had struggles and I loved that they were vulnerable and talked with each other about their insecurities. The exploration into Sutton's struggles with not feeling enough and DJ's struggles with dyslexia, added depth to the story, making it even more enjoyable.
Narration:
Stacey Gonzalez and Tim Paige perform this audiobook using dual-style narration. They both were perfectly cast for this story and really brought the characters to life. This was my first experience listening to Stacey and I loved how she fully embodied Sutton's grumpiness, independence, and vulnerability. Tim's smooth voice was perfect for DJ, effortlessly portraying DJ's hardworking, determined, and swoony nature. This was a fun listening experience and I highly recommend the audiobook.
Thanks to Jennifer Bonds and Pinup Audio for the gifted ALC. Opinions expressed are my own.
What to Expect:
- College Sports Romance
- Gymnast FMC
- Football Player MMC
- Enemies to Lovers
- Neighbors to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
- Second Chance
- Opposites Attract
We are back in the world of the Waverly Wildcats for Sutton and DJ's story. I enjoyed their hilarious enemies to lovers, sports romance. Sutton is on the Waverly gymnastics team. When the team comes back to campus to find their gym is closed, they are forced to share a space with the football team. Sutton previously hooked up with one of the players and things didn't go well. Naturally she now wants nothing to do with that player nor the team. A prank on the football team lands Sutton in hot water. Her punishment? She has to be the Waverly Wildcat mascot during football games, forcing her to spend time with the one person she would rather avoid. Making matters worse, they end up being neighbors and partners for a class project. The more time Sutton and DJ spend together, the more Sutton realizes that DJ may not be as bad as she thought.
This story is really cute. I loved that DJ was determined to have a "do over" after finding out why Sutton disliked him so much. DJ and Sutton were complete opposites, but they worked so well together. They had amazing chemistry and I loved their banter. Both of them had struggles and I loved that they were vulnerable and talked with each other about their insecurities. The exploration into Sutton's struggles with not feeling enough and DJ's struggles with dyslexia, added depth to the story, making it even more enjoyable.
Narration:
Stacey Gonzalez and Tim Paige perform this audiobook using dual-style narration. They both were perfectly cast for this story and really brought the characters to life. This was my first experience listening to Stacey and I loved how she fully embodied Sutton's grumpiness, independence, and vulnerability. Tim's smooth voice was perfect for DJ, effortlessly portraying DJ's hardworking, determined, and swoony nature. This was a fun listening experience and I highly recommend the audiobook.
Thanks to Jennifer Bonds and Pinup Audio for the gifted ALC. Opinions expressed are my own.
March 1, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
Book 3 in the Waverly Wildcats and this one was fun. I loved Sutton - she was feisty (hello again itching powder prank), a hard worker, and not afraid to get spicy with Parker. When she finally stood up to her shitty parents, I cheered for her so hard. Parker was a little ray of sunshine, able to joke around with his friends but also so head over heels mushy for Sutton. And he definitely made up for their failed first time. The spice between these two was hot; starting with getting off while pinned against the outside wall of a church, and then progressing to whatever wonderous magical toy The Rose is.
My only real critique for the book is that I feel like 3 books all taking place over the same football season, with all overlapping events, is getting to be a bit much. This story could’ve easily been for Parker’s 5th year instead of the same year as Reid and Cooper’s books, just to make it more interesting. Or even better, I wish it would’ve taken place during Sutton’s gymnastics season, because as a former gymnast I was so excited to read about her and was bummed that we didn’t get to see even a single routine or vault in the entire book. Parker promised to be at her meets with glittery signs, and that would’ve been so cute to watch unfold.
Audiobook narration by Stacy Gonzalez and Tim Paige was good. Stacy had emotional range and her occasional need for Spanish sounded super natural. Tim gave off great peppy Parker vibes, but he kept saying Sigma Chai (like the tea) instead of Sigma Chi (the Greek letter), which drove me a little nuts.
Thank you to PinUp Audio for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Book 3 in the Waverly Wildcats and this one was fun. I loved Sutton - she was feisty (hello again itching powder prank), a hard worker, and not afraid to get spicy with Parker. When she finally stood up to her shitty parents, I cheered for her so hard. Parker was a little ray of sunshine, able to joke around with his friends but also so head over heels mushy for Sutton. And he definitely made up for their failed first time. The spice between these two was hot; starting with getting off while pinned against the outside wall of a church, and then progressing to whatever wonderous magical toy The Rose is.
My only real critique for the book is that I feel like 3 books all taking place over the same football season, with all overlapping events, is getting to be a bit much. This story could’ve easily been for Parker’s 5th year instead of the same year as Reid and Cooper’s books, just to make it more interesting. Or even better, I wish it would’ve taken place during Sutton’s gymnastics season, because as a former gymnast I was so excited to read about her and was bummed that we didn’t get to see even a single routine or vault in the entire book. Parker promised to be at her meets with glittery signs, and that would’ve been so cute to watch unfold.
Audiobook narration by Stacy Gonzalez and Tim Paige was good. Stacy had emotional range and her occasional need for Spanish sounded super natural. Tim gave off great peppy Parker vibes, but he kept saying Sigma Chai (like the tea) instead of Sigma Chi (the Greek letter), which drove me a little nuts.
Thank you to PinUp Audio for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
October 1, 2023
Purchased during September 2023 Stuff Your Kindle Day.
It was okay. There were cute scenes and most of the scenes were realistic.
I’d say it’s nothing new in the NA sports romance. And I noticed a few typos here and there, which I hope was revisited to be corrected ever since it was published.
My biggest gripe about this book is that one of the bigger and more important issues (if I say so myself) was not properly addressed. Sutton’s family problem was resolved by a quick sorry and a promise to “do better” which I felt was an understatement and under performance. Some might see it as not a big deal but I felt the weight of her childhood trauma, that’s why I was expecting their confrontation to be elaborate and deeper and more sincere, basically I was expecting more. And that was not done. It was blown over and forgotten within a page which to me is unacceptable.
It’s my first book from this author and from this series. I’d love to read more from this series soon!
It was okay. There were cute scenes and most of the scenes were realistic.
I’d say it’s nothing new in the NA sports romance. And I noticed a few typos here and there, which I hope was revisited to be corrected ever since it was published.
My biggest gripe about this book is that one of the bigger and more important issues (if I say so myself) was not properly addressed. Sutton’s family problem was resolved by a quick sorry and a promise to “do better” which I felt was an understatement and under performance. Some might see it as not a big deal but I felt the weight of her childhood trauma, that’s why I was expecting their confrontation to be elaborate and deeper and more sincere, basically I was expecting more. And that was not done. It was blown over and forgotten within a page which to me is unacceptable.
It’s my first book from this author and from this series. I’d love to read more from this series soon!
March 2, 2025
Years ago, DJ and Sutton had a one night stand but DJ doesn’t remember it. For years, Sutton resented him, believing he was pretending it never happened. But after a prank forces her to become the football team’s mascot and a class project pairs her with DJ, they find themselves spending more time together. What starts as a casual friends with benefits arrangement soon begins to feel like something more. Both have personal challenges to face, making their journey all the more compelling. Narrators Tim Paige and Stacey Gonzalez perfectly capture Sutton’s sass and DJ’s playful charm. If you love a sweet and spicy sports romance, this is a must listen!
Thank you, Jennifer Bonds and Pinup Audio for the ALC.
Thank you, Jennifer Bonds and Pinup Audio for the ALC.
December 29, 2023
DNF
It’s rare that I don’t finish a book but I couldn’t connect with the story.
I disliked the MCs and their connection felt like “ok, they hated each other, they connected, all good to go” and the rest of the story was unnecessary.
They had a past he figured out pretty quickly in the book so.. I felt continuing reading was pointless 🤷🏻♀️
It’s rare that I don’t finish a book but I couldn’t connect with the story.
I disliked the MCs and their connection felt like “ok, they hated each other, they connected, all good to go” and the rest of the story was unnecessary.
They had a past he figured out pretty quickly in the book so.. I felt continuing reading was pointless 🤷🏻♀️
September 29, 2023
Carino, scorrevole, prevedibile.
I banters tra i protagonisti, soprattutto all'inizio del libro, sono brillanti.
Speravo che lo sport di lei, la ginnastica artistica, emergesse di più nella storia, invece il grande focus sportivo è il football. Peccato.
I banters tra i protagonisti, soprattutto all'inizio del libro, sono brillanti.
Speravo che lo sport di lei, la ginnastica artistica, emergesse di più nella storia, invece il grande focus sportivo è il football. Peccato.
April 17, 2023
I am in my sports romance era. Scoring Sutton is a fun, steamy college football romance. It was a little slow for me at the beginning, but once it picked up I loved Sutton and Parker and their dynamic. Major enemies to lovers with a second chance, secret romance twist. This is book 3 in the Waverly Wildcats series, but can be read as a standalone. This was personally my first read in the series and I didn’t feel like I was missing any of the pieces. I enjoyed this one so much that I want to go and read the rest of the series pronto!
January 6, 2024
Easy read. Just what i needed. Good mini storylines!
April 10, 2023
Thank you so much for the ARC of this book and Congratulations for getting another book published.
I review a book on the basis of 5 parameters:
Cover , beginning, characters , story plot , emotions .
Cover : The cover is good. No lies. The model on the cover can help me imagine exactly how Parker would look. No worries. But , because I am not a huge fan of models' pictures on a book as a cover , I will stick to my view of not liking this cover as well.
Beginning : One straight fact , I didn't like it. The beginning was too informational and factual for a person who doesn't know football or isn't interested in sports in general. As a matter of fact , they would obviously skim through those sections .
Characters: They were 10 / 10 . I loved how Jennifer ma'am made sure that all the situations taking place in the overall plot and the choices given to the characters were totally to inclined to the qualities they projected and described.
I loved the character of parker and guys like him must exist in real life too.
I loved how Sutton is passionate for her career and how much she tries her best to balance everything from sports to her uni.
I loved how she didn't immediately let her guard down and gave in to EWB unlike most FWB tropes . It was interesting to see how precisely their childhood traumas reflected their reactions and choices.
Emotions: I believe the story one way gives emotions at some point in the story but it doesn't happen all the way through which is fine as well. But as far as my personal opinion is concerned, I would wanted more flavour of emotions . I love seeing fictional characters go through pain and rejoice at the next moment. I wanted a heartfelt sting of emotion and I kept searching for it in the book , but it just came and quickly faded away.
Overall plot: The overall plot was quite gripping. How their was a kind of suspense on the internship deal , and how would they unwrapp their feelings were some major points I kept holding the book. For EWB , the sensual scenes were on point and quite thrilling to read . I also noticed how all parker did all those book boyfriend gestures and he did got his point . Kudos for that .
I review a book on the basis of 5 parameters:
Cover , beginning, characters , story plot , emotions .
Cover : The cover is good. No lies. The model on the cover can help me imagine exactly how Parker would look. No worries. But , because I am not a huge fan of models' pictures on a book as a cover , I will stick to my view of not liking this cover as well.
Beginning : One straight fact , I didn't like it. The beginning was too informational and factual for a person who doesn't know football or isn't interested in sports in general. As a matter of fact , they would obviously skim through those sections .
Characters: They were 10 / 10 . I loved how Jennifer ma'am made sure that all the situations taking place in the overall plot and the choices given to the characters were totally to inclined to the qualities they projected and described.
I loved the character of parker and guys like him must exist in real life too.
I loved how Sutton is passionate for her career and how much she tries her best to balance everything from sports to her uni.
I loved how she didn't immediately let her guard down and gave in to EWB unlike most FWB tropes . It was interesting to see how precisely their childhood traumas reflected their reactions and choices.
Emotions: I believe the story one way gives emotions at some point in the story but it doesn't happen all the way through which is fine as well. But as far as my personal opinion is concerned, I would wanted more flavour of emotions . I love seeing fictional characters go through pain and rejoice at the next moment. I wanted a heartfelt sting of emotion and I kept searching for it in the book , but it just came and quickly faded away.
Overall plot: The overall plot was quite gripping. How their was a kind of suspense on the internship deal , and how would they unwrapp their feelings were some major points I kept holding the book. For EWB , the sensual scenes were on point and quite thrilling to read . I also noticed how all parker did all those book boyfriend gestures and he did got his point . Kudos for that .
April 8, 2024
I am thoroughly enjoying the Waverly Wildcat Series. I'm going to rate this book a 3.5 stars but didn't want to round it up to a 4 for the review.
Here we have the story of DJ Parker, a senior, who still has one more year of college because he red-shirted his first year (I had to look up what that meant). DJ is cocky and is now a player but he started his freshman year with his own insecurities because of his dyslexia and childhood trauma. However, he puts in 150% in his academic work as well as his football career and doesn't want to be "inferior" to anyone else or receive special treatment.
Sutton is a gymnast who is currently a junior. She knows that there is not a lot of future in her sport unless she goes on to the Olympics, however, that is a dream that her sister will pursue, not her. So Sutton conforms to coming in as secondplace for many things.
She and DJ have a past together, one that DJ does not remember, and left Sutton with a sour taste in her mouth. So, when their paths cross again, Sutton is not please. She is hellset on ignoring DJ as much as possible and DJ is intrigued and attracted to Sutton. Here they are now, 3 years after their initial hook-up and they are now neighbours, studying the same major, applying for the same internship and grouped together to do a project for the class they have in common. Oh, and they have to train in the same facilities for a few weeks due to maintenance issues in the gymnastics team gym. But that's not all. Sutton is so turned off by DJ, and football players in general, that she pulls a little prank and gets caught. Her punishment is either facing a disciplinary hearing or doing "school community service" and filling in for the team mascot.
All of these overlapping activities put Sutton and DJ in close proximity multiple times a week. They end up turning to each other for stress relief and are friends, um, enemies-with-benefits. However, it doesn't stay that way. The banter, sexual tension and physical attraction are more than they are able to handle and soon, they start to have real feelings for each other.
The spice is mild to hot in this book.
I mentioned in my review for Claiming Carter that the story focused a lot on Kennedy Carter and Austin Reid but we didn't get a lot of interaction with Reid's friends and roommates, who also happen to be his teammates, unless it was football related. Carter also had little interaction with her former friends and soccer teammates with the exception of her BFF and roommate, Becca. Well, Jennifer Bonds changed that in both Catching Quinn and now in Scoring Sutton. In both of these books we do see a lot of off-the-field and out of the locker room interaction between the friends group. This includes Austin, Cooper, DJ and Vaughn. I love to see how they are more than teammates and that they have been there for each other and support each other during their 4 years together at Waverly. In this book, we see how the guys are all there for, supporting and accepting, DJ when they think he is gay. Vaughn really is a teddy bear and a great person, showing real love and understanding for his friends and I can't wait to get his story in Protecting Piper. We also see Sutton's great friend circle with Maddie, Soraya and Becca and how they trust, rely on, inspire and support each other.
There were a few issues that I had problems with and didn't let me round my 3.5 star to a 4 star rating.
1. I am Latina and I love representation in books. Sutton is Puerto Rican, which is wonderful. However, besides saying and thinking some things in Spanish, there really was no reason to make her Puerto Rican. We didn't get any cultural references such as traditions or food (other than some Thanksgiving dishes). There were no obstacles or mention of her ethnic background, especially considering that the US Olympics team rarely sees Hispanic or Latin members and the gymnastics community as a whole doesn't have a lot of representation either. Her ethnic background played no part in the storytelling. Again, I love that we aren't only looking at white, all-American characters but, representation needs to be done correctly for it to be effective.
2. The childhood trauma and feelings of being inferior to her sister were brushed under the rug. Sutton finally had the courage to voice her feelings to her parents but it was all forgiven with a simple apology. No redemption, no promise of visiting her another weekend. I would have even enjoyed a conversation between Sutton and her sister, Gabby. I'm sure Gabby also had pressure to live up to her parent's expectations, or maybe she looked up to Sutton for leading the path first. I think more family interaction could have come in well.
Here we have the story of DJ Parker, a senior, who still has one more year of college because he red-shirted his first year (I had to look up what that meant). DJ is cocky and is now a player but he started his freshman year with his own insecurities because of his dyslexia and childhood trauma. However, he puts in 150% in his academic work as well as his football career and doesn't want to be "inferior" to anyone else or receive special treatment.
Sutton is a gymnast who is currently a junior. She knows that there is not a lot of future in her sport unless she goes on to the Olympics, however, that is a dream that her sister will pursue, not her. So Sutton conforms to coming in as secondplace for many things.
She and DJ have a past together, one that DJ does not remember, and left Sutton with a sour taste in her mouth. So, when their paths cross again, Sutton is not please. She is hellset on ignoring DJ as much as possible and DJ is intrigued and attracted to Sutton. Here they are now, 3 years after their initial hook-up and they are now neighbours, studying the same major, applying for the same internship and grouped together to do a project for the class they have in common. Oh, and they have to train in the same facilities for a few weeks due to maintenance issues in the gymnastics team gym. But that's not all. Sutton is so turned off by DJ, and football players in general, that she pulls a little prank and gets caught. Her punishment is either facing a disciplinary hearing or doing "school community service" and filling in for the team mascot.
All of these overlapping activities put Sutton and DJ in close proximity multiple times a week. They end up turning to each other for stress relief and are friends, um, enemies-with-benefits. However, it doesn't stay that way. The banter, sexual tension and physical attraction are more than they are able to handle and soon, they start to have real feelings for each other.
The spice is mild to hot in this book.
I mentioned in my review for Claiming Carter that the story focused a lot on Kennedy Carter and Austin Reid but we didn't get a lot of interaction with Reid's friends and roommates, who also happen to be his teammates, unless it was football related. Carter also had little interaction with her former friends and soccer teammates with the exception of her BFF and roommate, Becca. Well, Jennifer Bonds changed that in both Catching Quinn and now in Scoring Sutton. In both of these books we do see a lot of off-the-field and out of the locker room interaction between the friends group. This includes Austin, Cooper, DJ and Vaughn. I love to see how they are more than teammates and that they have been there for each other and support each other during their 4 years together at Waverly. In this book, we see how the guys are all there for, supporting and accepting, DJ when they think he is gay. Vaughn really is a teddy bear and a great person, showing real love and understanding for his friends and I can't wait to get his story in Protecting Piper. We also see Sutton's great friend circle with Maddie, Soraya and Becca and how they trust, rely on, inspire and support each other.
There were a few issues that I had problems with and didn't let me round my 3.5 star to a 4 star rating.
1. I am Latina and I love representation in books. Sutton is Puerto Rican, which is wonderful. However, besides saying and thinking some things in Spanish, there really was no reason to make her Puerto Rican. We didn't get any cultural references such as traditions or food (other than some Thanksgiving dishes). There were no obstacles or mention of her ethnic background, especially considering that the US Olympics team rarely sees Hispanic or Latin members and the gymnastics community as a whole doesn't have a lot of representation either. Her ethnic background played no part in the storytelling. Again, I love that we aren't only looking at white, all-American characters but, representation needs to be done correctly for it to be effective.
2. The childhood trauma and feelings of being inferior to her sister were brushed under the rug. Sutton finally had the courage to voice her feelings to her parents but it was all forgiven with a simple apology. No redemption, no promise of visiting her another weekend. I would have even enjoyed a conversation between Sutton and her sister, Gabby. I'm sure Gabby also had pressure to live up to her parent's expectations, or maybe she looked up to Sutton for leading the path first. I think more family interaction could have come in well.
August 20, 2024
Not horrible but not worth reading, felt repetitive and like a very simple and predictable plot line was dragged on for wayyyy too many pages.
December 4, 2024
“I don’t want this thing between us to end. Not tomorrow. Not the day after. I want more.”
4 Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the fourth book in the Waverly Wildcats series, and it might be the hottest one so far!
Upon returning to Waverly University and moving into her new apartment, Sutton discovers that her neighbor is DJ Parker, the football player who she had a disastrous hook up with two years ago, and led her to swear off football players and jokes in general. But DJ doesn’t remember ever meeting Sutton, so he doesn’t understand why she dislikes him so much, and makes it his personal mission to win her over. After a steamy make out (and more) sesh and being forced to partner on a project, they slowly give in to the heat between them, and agree to be “enemies with benefits”. But as they spend more time together they find it more difficult to let go than expected.
🚨SPOILER ALERT - Proceed with Caution🚨
Another adorable addition to the Waverly Wildcats series. This was a fun and spicy enemies-to-lovers, second-chance, sports romance with just the right amount of forced proximity. The characters are well written and easy to love, and I love that the chapters alternate POVs for them. I loved Sutton and the strong FMC that she was, but Parker won my heart in this one. He’s just so stinking cute and swoon-worthy with how determined he is to figure out why Sutton doesn’t like him, but then to make it up to her, but based what happened, and the fact that he doesn’t remember, who could blame her
✨Sutton a.k.a. “Shorty” is an elite collegiate gymnast. She’s strong, smart, and determined to stand out, especially since she always seems to fall second to her sister, and was seemingly remarkably easy to forget by DJ. Her snarky attitude gets the best of her some times, but she rolls with the punches, which in this case meant subbing for the wildcat mascot as punishment for her prank against the football team. She made the most of it and still kept up with her practices and classes. She’s killing it. I loved that she listens to “Pornolicious” audiobooks to blow off steam.
✨Parker a.k.a. Devin, is a Tight End with the Waverly Wildcats football team. He’s clever, kind, and ambitious. He works hard for what he wants, both with Sutton and overcoming his challenges to earn the internship. He’s funny and charming and much like the other Waverly men he’s a nice guy with a cocky exterior.
🩷The Romance:
This was not just a second-chance, enemies-to-lovers, sports romance with just the right amount of forced proximity, but also reverse-grumpy-sunshine AND he-falls-first. Parker and Sutton are so cute. While it was a rocky start, Parker was determined to make things right and Sutton was equally drawn to him enough to give him another chance. And boy was she lucky she did. Their playful banter and small gestures speak volumes to the growing connection between them. From his endearing nickname of “Shorty” for her and him sharing his full name, Devin, and her being the only person who calls him that, to them professing their true feelings and finding comfort and safety with each other. It was all so well done.
❤️🔥The Spice:
This might be the spiciest one in the series and I loved it! 😍 The instant tension made it seem hotter faster too. The spice to plot ratio was perfect as usual too, but a little more taboo with the whole church parking lot scene, but I’m not even a little made about it.
Overall this was another fun read, with the perfect amount of spice and spice. It’s only downfall was that it was a generic romcom.
**Each book in the series is a standalone, but there are cameos from other main characters in each book.**
4 Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the fourth book in the Waverly Wildcats series, and it might be the hottest one so far!
Upon returning to Waverly University and moving into her new apartment, Sutton discovers that her neighbor is DJ Parker, the football player who she had a disastrous hook up with two years ago, and led her to swear off football players and jokes in general. But DJ doesn’t remember ever meeting Sutton, so he doesn’t understand why she dislikes him so much, and makes it his personal mission to win her over. After a steamy make out (and more) sesh and being forced to partner on a project, they slowly give in to the heat between them, and agree to be “enemies with benefits”. But as they spend more time together they find it more difficult to let go than expected.
🚨SPOILER ALERT - Proceed with Caution🚨
Another adorable addition to the Waverly Wildcats series. This was a fun and spicy enemies-to-lovers, second-chance, sports romance with just the right amount of forced proximity. The characters are well written and easy to love, and I love that the chapters alternate POVs for them. I loved Sutton and the strong FMC that she was, but Parker won my heart in this one. He’s just so stinking cute and swoon-worthy with how determined he is to figure out why Sutton doesn’t like him, but then to make it up to her, but based what happened, and the fact that he doesn’t remember, who could blame her
✨Sutton a.k.a. “Shorty” is an elite collegiate gymnast. She’s strong, smart, and determined to stand out, especially since she always seems to fall second to her sister, and was seemingly remarkably easy to forget by DJ. Her snarky attitude gets the best of her some times, but she rolls with the punches, which in this case meant subbing for the wildcat mascot as punishment for her prank against the football team. She made the most of it and still kept up with her practices and classes. She’s killing it. I loved that she listens to “Pornolicious” audiobooks to blow off steam.
✨Parker a.k.a. Devin, is a Tight End with the Waverly Wildcats football team. He’s clever, kind, and ambitious. He works hard for what he wants, both with Sutton and overcoming his challenges to earn the internship. He’s funny and charming and much like the other Waverly men he’s a nice guy with a cocky exterior.
🩷The Romance:
This was not just a second-chance, enemies-to-lovers, sports romance with just the right amount of forced proximity, but also reverse-grumpy-sunshine AND he-falls-first. Parker and Sutton are so cute. While it was a rocky start, Parker was determined to make things right and Sutton was equally drawn to him enough to give him another chance. And boy was she lucky she did. Their playful banter and small gestures speak volumes to the growing connection between them. From his endearing nickname of “Shorty” for her and him sharing his full name, Devin, and her being the only person who calls him that, to them professing their true feelings and finding comfort and safety with each other. It was all so well done.
❤️🔥The Spice:
This might be the spiciest one in the series and I loved it! 😍 The instant tension made it seem hotter faster too. The spice to plot ratio was perfect as usual too, but a little more taboo with the whole church parking lot scene, but I’m not even a little made about it.
Overall this was another fun read, with the perfect amount of spice and spice. It’s only downfall was that it was a generic romcom.
**Each book in the series is a standalone, but there are cameos from other main characters in each book.**
February 24, 2025
Fabulous Story & Narration🎧 Delightful & Entertaining!
Scoring Sutton
Waverly Wildcats, Book 3
By: Jennifer Bonds
Narrated by: Tim Paige, Stacy Gonzalez
It is great to be back in Jennifer Bonds’ “Waverly Wildcats” world again for another fabulous sports romance and this book is just as amazing as the first two in the series. Each book in the series features different lead characters and their stories stand on their own, however some characters crossover into each other’s book and not only is knowing their backstory beneficial but seeing them again is like seeing an old friend. This third book is Devin “DJ” Parker and Sutton Cruz’s story and is an enemies-with-benefits, second chance romance. Sutton is on the gymnastics team and she and her friend Madison are done with dorm living and got their own apartment. Her one request was to not be anywhere near the football team, but she wasn’t so lucky, and the day she moved in, she saw several of the Wildcats, including the last person she ever wanted to see again, DJ Parker, who turns out to be their neighbors. Because of the school’s policy, she could not switch apartments, so she had to deal with it. She and DJ have history and not a good one, with them hooking up in their freshmen year, but not only did he ghost her after, but there were other insults to her injury, which did a number on her confidence. He has no clue what her deal is, but fate keeps putting them in close-proximity, too close for her own comfort. There was an undeniable chemistry between these two and it was great to watch them go back-and-forth with each other, then finally call a truce and finally stopped denying themselves and turn that chemistry into a benefits arrangement. There are so many great things to love about this book, the layers of the story, the complexity of the characters, their backstories and their goals in life, to them just getting to know each other. The world building and character growth and development is fantastic, and it is a wonderfully written and plotted story that has the perfect balance of drama, angst, witty banter and humor, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. It is a heartwarming story that puts a smile on your face and once you start it, you can’t put it down, because you want to know what happens next, escapism at its best. Jennifer Bonds, thank you for another wonderfully entertaining story, the laughs and the emotional rollercoaster ride
🎧📚🎧 Tim Paige and Stacy Gonzalez are a fantastic pairing and they did a fabulous job voicing these characters and delivering a perfect portrayal of each. Both nailed in the lead roles, showcasing their personality and demeanor wonderfully, and handling their banter and witty dialogue effortlessly and never missing a beat. Their pacing and tone were just right for the story and they captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. These versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to.
Scoring Sutton
Waverly Wildcats, Book 3
By: Jennifer Bonds
Narrated by: Tim Paige, Stacy Gonzalez
It is great to be back in Jennifer Bonds’ “Waverly Wildcats” world again for another fabulous sports romance and this book is just as amazing as the first two in the series. Each book in the series features different lead characters and their stories stand on their own, however some characters crossover into each other’s book and not only is knowing their backstory beneficial but seeing them again is like seeing an old friend. This third book is Devin “DJ” Parker and Sutton Cruz’s story and is an enemies-with-benefits, second chance romance. Sutton is on the gymnastics team and she and her friend Madison are done with dorm living and got their own apartment. Her one request was to not be anywhere near the football team, but she wasn’t so lucky, and the day she moved in, she saw several of the Wildcats, including the last person she ever wanted to see again, DJ Parker, who turns out to be their neighbors. Because of the school’s policy, she could not switch apartments, so she had to deal with it. She and DJ have history and not a good one, with them hooking up in their freshmen year, but not only did he ghost her after, but there were other insults to her injury, which did a number on her confidence. He has no clue what her deal is, but fate keeps putting them in close-proximity, too close for her own comfort. There was an undeniable chemistry between these two and it was great to watch them go back-and-forth with each other, then finally call a truce and finally stopped denying themselves and turn that chemistry into a benefits arrangement. There are so many great things to love about this book, the layers of the story, the complexity of the characters, their backstories and their goals in life, to them just getting to know each other. The world building and character growth and development is fantastic, and it is a wonderfully written and plotted story that has the perfect balance of drama, angst, witty banter and humor, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. It is a heartwarming story that puts a smile on your face and once you start it, you can’t put it down, because you want to know what happens next, escapism at its best. Jennifer Bonds, thank you for another wonderfully entertaining story, the laughs and the emotional rollercoaster ride
🎧📚🎧 Tim Paige and Stacy Gonzalez are a fantastic pairing and they did a fabulous job voicing these characters and delivering a perfect portrayal of each. Both nailed in the lead roles, showcasing their personality and demeanor wonderfully, and handling their banter and witty dialogue effortlessly and never missing a beat. Their pacing and tone were just right for the story and they captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. These versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to.
April 15, 2023
Scoring Sutton is book 3 of the Waverly Wildcats series. This book features Sutton Cruz and DJ Parker.
Sutton is an elite collegiate gymnast. She is a strong, graceful, petite (5'4") woman who is determined to never again disappear into the background. She uses both her snarky mouth and physical appearance, including bright cobalt hair, a nose piercing, and attention-demanding attire, to ensure she is seen.
Parker is a a Waverly Wildcat. He is a 6'3" football player who is very easy on the eyes. Things don't come easily to him, but he is not one to shy away from hard work. He knows his skills on the field aren't enough to go pro after college, but he doesn't care. He loves the sport and is enjoying his time on the field and will give it his all to help his teammates score the national title this year.
We are introduced to this duo at the start of the semester when Sutton is moving into her new apartment, and is crushed by Parker when he doesn't see her and accidentally lands on her during a game of frisbee. He is apologetic about crushing her and endeavours to help her up, but she isn't having any of it. She's livid.
We quickly learn that there's some history between Sutton and Parker, although the details aren't revealed right away. Sutton essentially loathes Parker and has zero desire to ever cross paths with him again, however Parker has no idea why and the more she pushes him away the more curious and intrigued he finds himself.
This is a fun and spicy enemies to lovers romance, with a healthy dose of forced proximity. The characters are well written and easy to love. Chapters alternate between our two characters' point of view allowing us to appreciate their individual perspectives, their struggles, and their flaws.
As someone who has no knowledge of collegiate sports, the terminology and specifics included did not impact my enjoyment. I suspect that individuals who are well versed in that world would only appreciate the level of detail. I did however struggle a little with Sutton's Spanish expressions which were scattered throughout the book, but took it as an opportunity to learn a little of the language. They added to her fiery and passionate character.
While this is the third installment in the series, it can be read and appreciated as a standalone story. This was the first Waverly Wildcat book I've read but I didn't feel like I was missing anything to thoroughly enjoy this one. That said, I would welcome the opportunity to read the other books in the series as I suspect they're all equally enjoyable reads.
Sutton is an elite collegiate gymnast. She is a strong, graceful, petite (5'4") woman who is determined to never again disappear into the background. She uses both her snarky mouth and physical appearance, including bright cobalt hair, a nose piercing, and attention-demanding attire, to ensure she is seen.
Parker is a a Waverly Wildcat. He is a 6'3" football player who is very easy on the eyes. Things don't come easily to him, but he is not one to shy away from hard work. He knows his skills on the field aren't enough to go pro after college, but he doesn't care. He loves the sport and is enjoying his time on the field and will give it his all to help his teammates score the national title this year.
We are introduced to this duo at the start of the semester when Sutton is moving into her new apartment, and is crushed by Parker when he doesn't see her and accidentally lands on her during a game of frisbee. He is apologetic about crushing her and endeavours to help her up, but she isn't having any of it. She's livid.
We quickly learn that there's some history between Sutton and Parker, although the details aren't revealed right away. Sutton essentially loathes Parker and has zero desire to ever cross paths with him again, however Parker has no idea why and the more she pushes him away the more curious and intrigued he finds himself.
This is a fun and spicy enemies to lovers romance, with a healthy dose of forced proximity. The characters are well written and easy to love. Chapters alternate between our two characters' point of view allowing us to appreciate their individual perspectives, their struggles, and their flaws.
As someone who has no knowledge of collegiate sports, the terminology and specifics included did not impact my enjoyment. I suspect that individuals who are well versed in that world would only appreciate the level of detail. I did however struggle a little with Sutton's Spanish expressions which were scattered throughout the book, but took it as an opportunity to learn a little of the language. They added to her fiery and passionate character.
While this is the third installment in the series, it can be read and appreciated as a standalone story. This was the first Waverly Wildcat book I've read but I didn't feel like I was missing anything to thoroughly enjoy this one. That said, I would welcome the opportunity to read the other books in the series as I suspect they're all equally enjoyable reads.
March 29, 2023
“Just being with you is enough. You are enough.”
Scoring Sutton was another fantastic addition to the Waverly Wildcats series. This character driven story was full of emotion, heart and laughs. Sutton and Parker had so much in common and were truly perfect for each other. I loved watching their love/hate relationship develop.
“With him, I was the best version of myself and it was always enough.”
Sutton was independent, feisty and determined to reach her goals in life. She has always felt like nobody saw her and that she wasn’t enough, but once she began spending time with Parker, he showed that he understood her and that gave her the courage to realize what she truly wanted in life. I loved her character development throughout the story. She was strong at the beginning, but she was even stronger by the end.
“If you’re focused on the trauma of your past, you’re going to miss out on the joys of your present.”
Parker was a sweetheart. Most of the time, he was lighthearted and playful, but he also had a serious side. Parker was just as determined as Sutton to reach his goals, but he was also self-conscious about some of his issues that led him to make assumptions about other people’s intentions. He had to learn to trust and not put so much value on things that had happened to him in the past.
“No one deserves to be treated like an afterthought. Especially you.”
These two had fun, snarky banter and a combustible chemistry. Then underneath that, they had a strong emotional pull towards one another. They both had felt unseen at one time or another and knew how to uplift one another. I loved how they grew throughout the story to become better, stronger versions of themselves and to live a more authentic life.
Full of humor, heat, and heart, Scoring Sutton was a fun, emotional story that I devoured in one day. I couldn’t get enough of Sutton and Parker and their push/pull relationship. I’ve loved each couple in this series and I can’t wait for more!!
Scoring Sutton was another fantastic addition to the Waverly Wildcats series. This character driven story was full of emotion, heart and laughs. Sutton and Parker had so much in common and were truly perfect for each other. I loved watching their love/hate relationship develop.
“With him, I was the best version of myself and it was always enough.”
Sutton was independent, feisty and determined to reach her goals in life. She has always felt like nobody saw her and that she wasn’t enough, but once she began spending time with Parker, he showed that he understood her and that gave her the courage to realize what she truly wanted in life. I loved her character development throughout the story. She was strong at the beginning, but she was even stronger by the end.
“If you’re focused on the trauma of your past, you’re going to miss out on the joys of your present.”
Parker was a sweetheart. Most of the time, he was lighthearted and playful, but he also had a serious side. Parker was just as determined as Sutton to reach his goals, but he was also self-conscious about some of his issues that led him to make assumptions about other people’s intentions. He had to learn to trust and not put so much value on things that had happened to him in the past.
“No one deserves to be treated like an afterthought. Especially you.”
These two had fun, snarky banter and a combustible chemistry. Then underneath that, they had a strong emotional pull towards one another. They both had felt unseen at one time or another and knew how to uplift one another. I loved how they grew throughout the story to become better, stronger versions of themselves and to live a more authentic life.
Full of humor, heat, and heart, Scoring Sutton was a fun, emotional story that I devoured in one day. I couldn’t get enough of Sutton and Parker and their push/pull relationship. I’ve loved each couple in this series and I can’t wait for more!!
April 6, 2023
Oh man. This book had so many gut twisting, heart wrenching moments and I was so not prepared!
Sutton is a member of the Waverly gymnastics team. When the team gets back to campus after summer break, they find their gym is closed and have to work out in the football team’s facilities. Sutton cannot stand the football team, or more specifically, one football player. After a rude run in with Langley (really hate the guy at this point), Sutton decides to prank the football team- and now we know the mystery culprit of the itching powder! But then she’s caught and has to serve community service- in the form of being the Waverly Wildcat mascot at football games.
DJ Parker likes to think of himself as a good guy, straight forward with his hookups. So for the life of him, he cannot understand why Sutton Cruz hates him. I wanted to CRY when we found out the reason and Parker’s explanation of the events that took place. Parker is determined to right the situation and will do whatever it takes. Thanks to having a class and a group project pushing them together, Sutton and Parker slowly develop a FWB relationship.
There were so many times throughout the book that I just wanted to hug both Sutton and Parker. Sutton any time she talked about her struggles around not feeling like enough because of her sister’s success and her parents’ dismissal. And Parker any time he talked about his insecurities around his dyslexia.
Love loved loved when Sutton stopped calling him Parker and started calling him Devin 😭 it’s the opposite of a nickname, but it was a just her and him thing. I love the way these books are one overlapping timeline and we get to see the moments from the different guys’ perspectives- like the itching powder 😂
I think this might be my favorite of the Waverly Wildcat books so far (but I have a feeling mystery mountain man Vaughn may change that)
Sutton is a member of the Waverly gymnastics team. When the team gets back to campus after summer break, they find their gym is closed and have to work out in the football team’s facilities. Sutton cannot stand the football team, or more specifically, one football player. After a rude run in with Langley (really hate the guy at this point), Sutton decides to prank the football team- and now we know the mystery culprit of the itching powder! But then she’s caught and has to serve community service- in the form of being the Waverly Wildcat mascot at football games.
DJ Parker likes to think of himself as a good guy, straight forward with his hookups. So for the life of him, he cannot understand why Sutton Cruz hates him. I wanted to CRY when we found out the reason and Parker’s explanation of the events that took place. Parker is determined to right the situation and will do whatever it takes. Thanks to having a class and a group project pushing them together, Sutton and Parker slowly develop a FWB relationship.
There were so many times throughout the book that I just wanted to hug both Sutton and Parker. Sutton any time she talked about her struggles around not feeling like enough because of her sister’s success and her parents’ dismissal. And Parker any time he talked about his insecurities around his dyslexia.
Love loved loved when Sutton stopped calling him Parker and started calling him Devin 😭 it’s the opposite of a nickname, but it was a just her and him thing. I love the way these books are one overlapping timeline and we get to see the moments from the different guys’ perspectives- like the itching powder 😂
I think this might be my favorite of the Waverly Wildcat books so far (but I have a feeling mystery mountain man Vaughn may change that)
April 17, 2023
Scoring Sutton is an utterly fun, steamy enemies to lovers romance. Jennifer Bonds fills this college football story with likable characters, sizzling chemistry and lots of banter.
Gymnast Sutton and football player Parker are both college athletes at Waverly University. While Sutton has avoided Parker since her freshman year, he has no clue they’ve even met, let alone what he did wrong. Their attraction simmers when they run into each other as new neighbors and are forced to partner on a class project. When Sutton gets caught for pulling a prank on the football team, her community service involves performing as the Wildcat mascot at the season’s football games. Her secretive role pushes her even closer to Parker. When he finally finds out where he went wrong, the two clear the air and begin an “enemies-with-benefits”relationship. But where do they go if they catch feelings, especially when competing for the same internship?
I really enjoyed this new adult romance. I adored sassy Sutton, and liked how she stood up for herself and her fellow gymnasts. Parker might be a tough athlete, but he’s a cinnamon roll when it comes to Sutton. Once these two work out their misunderstanding about what happened in the past, their chemistry and quips make them a fantastic couple.
This romance is the third in the Waverly Wildcats series. But since this book was my introduction to the team, I can honestly say it works well as a standalone. I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of the series.
Scoring Sutton makes the enemies to lovers trope tons of fun. Parker and Sutton are delightful, whether they are competing, bickering, or kissing and making up. If you like steamy college sports romance, check out the Waverly Wildcats football team.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Gymnast Sutton and football player Parker are both college athletes at Waverly University. While Sutton has avoided Parker since her freshman year, he has no clue they’ve even met, let alone what he did wrong. Their attraction simmers when they run into each other as new neighbors and are forced to partner on a class project. When Sutton gets caught for pulling a prank on the football team, her community service involves performing as the Wildcat mascot at the season’s football games. Her secretive role pushes her even closer to Parker. When he finally finds out where he went wrong, the two clear the air and begin an “enemies-with-benefits”relationship. But where do they go if they catch feelings, especially when competing for the same internship?
I really enjoyed this new adult romance. I adored sassy Sutton, and liked how she stood up for herself and her fellow gymnasts. Parker might be a tough athlete, but he’s a cinnamon roll when it comes to Sutton. Once these two work out their misunderstanding about what happened in the past, their chemistry and quips make them a fantastic couple.
This romance is the third in the Waverly Wildcats series. But since this book was my introduction to the team, I can honestly say it works well as a standalone. I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of the series.
Scoring Sutton makes the enemies to lovers trope tons of fun. Parker and Sutton are delightful, whether they are competing, bickering, or kissing and making up. If you like steamy college sports romance, check out the Waverly Wildcats football team.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 2, 2025
Scoring Sutton is the third audiobook in the Waverly Wildcats series by Jennifer Bonds. This is a new adult, reverse grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, neighbors to lovers, he falls first, college sports romance novel with a neurodivergent MMC and a Latina FMC. Sutton Cruiz was a gymnast and DJ Parker a football player at Waverly University. After almost no contact since her freshman year, suddenly Parker was everywhere she went and she couldn’t seem to escape him. As a freshman, she had hooked up with Parker, who called her the wrong name, was terrible in bed, ghosted her the next day, and shattered her confidence. In her anger, Sutton made a poor choice that stood to jeopardize her spot on the gymnastics team and her scholarship unless a she agreed to community service that placed her at every football game. Parker proposed an enemies with benefits arrangement in order to redeem his lackluster performance, and even though they were rivals for a sports broadcasting internship, Sutton was helpless to say no. The more time they spent together, the less Parker seemed like an enemy. This was a cute, funny, audiobook with two very lovable characters whose choices were colored by their past experiences. It was impossible not to enjoy their snappy banter and the ways they built each other up. The narrators were perfect in this dual POV audiobook. Tim Paige did a great job narrating the lovable Parker and Stacy Gonzalez made an excellent fiery Latina. The couples’ chemistry was off the charts and the book as spicy as Sutton’s audiobooks! I definitely recommend this audiobook for listeners who enjoy a good new adult, dual sports romcom, but it is also available in kindleunlimited for those that would prefer the ebook instead.
Thank you to Pinup Audio for providing this free ALC. I am voluntarily sharing this honest review.
Thank you to Pinup Audio for providing this free ALC. I am voluntarily sharing this honest review.
April 17, 2023
SCORING SUTTON By Jennifer Bonds
DJ Parker is a Grade A Pr*ck…
The guy struts around campus like he’s God’s gift to Wildcat football, but I know the truth.
He’s arrogant, obnoxious, and terrible in bed.
Two years ago, we hooked up and the only memorable thing about it was the fact that he called me the wrong name and ghosted me afterward. So when he moves in next door, who could blame me for wanting a little revenge?
Too bad my prank didn’t go as planned. Now my gymnastics scholarship is on the line and I’m stuck playing Waverly’s mascot for the rest of the semester.
The only thing worse than the fur suit? Cheering for the guy who shattered my confidence.
😊
What i liked -
✔ Enemies With Benefits/Sports Romance/Second Chance/He Falls First/Reverse Grumpy-Sunshine.
✔ I rolled over laughing over that prank. (Chef kiss worthy)
✔ I loved Parker. He is so cute and swoon worthy. (it was a shitty thing he did but i loved how he makes up for it when he realises)
✔ My heart went out for Sutton. (it's a shitty feeling when you feel you're not enough).
✔ I loved how she was always standing by her friends and vice versa.
✔ I loved allllll the side characters in this book, especially the Wildcat members. (except one douc**b*g)
✔ It's got angst, emotions, heartbreaks, laughter and spice.
🤔What could have been better -
✔ There are some parts where I let the story slow down a bit.
📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lovers
💞Enemies With Benefits Romance
🏈Sports Romance
📈My Rating : 4/5
P.s- It's part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thank You, Jennifer Bonds and Grey's Promotions ,for a copy.
DJ Parker is a Grade A Pr*ck…
The guy struts around campus like he’s God’s gift to Wildcat football, but I know the truth.
He’s arrogant, obnoxious, and terrible in bed.
Two years ago, we hooked up and the only memorable thing about it was the fact that he called me the wrong name and ghosted me afterward. So when he moves in next door, who could blame me for wanting a little revenge?
Too bad my prank didn’t go as planned. Now my gymnastics scholarship is on the line and I’m stuck playing Waverly’s mascot for the rest of the semester.
The only thing worse than the fur suit? Cheering for the guy who shattered my confidence.
😊
What i liked -
✔ Enemies With Benefits/Sports Romance/Second Chance/He Falls First/Reverse Grumpy-Sunshine.
✔ I rolled over laughing over that prank. (Chef kiss worthy)
✔ I loved Parker. He is so cute and swoon worthy. (it was a shitty thing he did but i loved how he makes up for it when he realises)
✔ My heart went out for Sutton. (it's a shitty feeling when you feel you're not enough).
✔ I loved how she was always standing by her friends and vice versa.
✔ I loved allllll the side characters in this book, especially the Wildcat members. (except one douc**b*g)
✔ It's got angst, emotions, heartbreaks, laughter and spice.
🤔What could have been better -
✔ There are some parts where I let the story slow down a bit.
📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lovers
💞Enemies With Benefits Romance
🏈Sports Romance
📈My Rating : 4/5
P.s- It's part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
Thank You, Jennifer Bonds and Grey's Promotions ,for a copy.
April 18, 2023
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book that easily stands alone. Its book 3 in a series about football players finding love. This is my first book that I read in the series but I loved it so much that I plan to read the earlier books as well.
It stars Sutton who is a petite gymnast at college in her Junior year. She shares an apartment with her best friend Maddie and is close with the girls on her school gymnastics team. She ends up as neighbors with a bunch of football players and she has no interest in living near them. And to make matters worse she finds out that DJ Parker the worst of them is not only her neighbor but also the guy she sits next to in class and then she finds out they have to work on a project together for a class with the reward of an internship.
These two were such awesome characters and I adored this book so much. Parker has a learning disability and he is so smart he has overcome it but its still this really sensitive part of his self-worth. While Sutton feels second best in her family and she sees how her parents treat her vs her sister and its affected her confidence and how she feels about herself.
I loved how this two grow and change and lift each other up and support each other as they go after life and the challenges there. They were really beautiful together and I adored watching them let each other in as they go from enemies to friends to romance and face what they want their future to include.
This is book that easily stands alone. Its book 3 in a series about football players finding love. This is my first book that I read in the series but I loved it so much that I plan to read the earlier books as well.
It stars Sutton who is a petite gymnast at college in her Junior year. She shares an apartment with her best friend Maddie and is close with the girls on her school gymnastics team. She ends up as neighbors with a bunch of football players and she has no interest in living near them. And to make matters worse she finds out that DJ Parker the worst of them is not only her neighbor but also the guy she sits next to in class and then she finds out they have to work on a project together for a class with the reward of an internship.
These two were such awesome characters and I adored this book so much. Parker has a learning disability and he is so smart he has overcome it but its still this really sensitive part of his self-worth. While Sutton feels second best in her family and she sees how her parents treat her vs her sister and its affected her confidence and how she feels about herself.
I loved how this two grow and change and lift each other up and support each other as they go after life and the challenges there. They were really beautiful together and I adored watching them let each other in as they go from enemies to friends to romance and face what they want their future to include.
November 13, 2023
“And even though he’s disappointed in his performance, I know he’s rooting for me. That’s just the kind of person he is. He doesn’t need to tear someone else down to build himself up. The world could use more people like him.”
Holy shit I loved this book so much. I think this is my first foray into sports romance and omg I’m so glad! I got this cute ass romcom during the “romance stuff your kindle” day. So glad I picked this sports romance to be my first. Sutton and Parker share an unpleasant past—unbeknownst to Parker and it makes Sutton seethe at the sight of him. But, of course since we’re in the romcom universe in “Saving Sutton” our two MC are constantly bumping into each other AND bumping heads. Due to a prank on Suttons part she becomes engulfed into Parker’s world of football and the two go from “fenemies to lovers.”
I gotta say I absolutely loved how the author made these two MC. They were so much more mature and slightly polished than most other fictional characters this age in other books I’ve read. And to me that’s more realistic and it makes me enjoy the rest of the plot better. This isn’t a book where the MCs spend an entire book brooding or hurting each other either. The blooming story that I read in between Parker and Sutton also made my little hopeless romantic heart flutter. I loved seeing their story play out.
With that being said…if you’re looking for a light and fluffy romance with a delightful side of smart banter and steamy sex then this is the book for you.
Holy shit I loved this book so much. I think this is my first foray into sports romance and omg I’m so glad! I got this cute ass romcom during the “romance stuff your kindle” day. So glad I picked this sports romance to be my first. Sutton and Parker share an unpleasant past—unbeknownst to Parker and it makes Sutton seethe at the sight of him. But, of course since we’re in the romcom universe in “Saving Sutton” our two MC are constantly bumping into each other AND bumping heads. Due to a prank on Suttons part she becomes engulfed into Parker’s world of football and the two go from “fenemies to lovers.”
I gotta say I absolutely loved how the author made these two MC. They were so much more mature and slightly polished than most other fictional characters this age in other books I’ve read. And to me that’s more realistic and it makes me enjoy the rest of the plot better. This isn’t a book where the MCs spend an entire book brooding or hurting each other either. The blooming story that I read in between Parker and Sutton also made my little hopeless romantic heart flutter. I loved seeing their story play out.
With that being said…if you’re looking for a light and fluffy romance with a delightful side of smart banter and steamy sex then this is the book for you.
April 15, 2023
I’m in my sports romance era and I’m loving it! Thank you @jbondswrites for allowing me to read and review! 💗
Read if you enjoy:
Second chance
Reverse grumpy/sunshine
Enemies with benefits
Sports/football Romance
Spice 🌶️
This is book 3 of the Waverly Wildcats series, but the first that I’ve read. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything or lost when I jumped right in! It worked great as a stand-alone.
Sutton is a college student who moves into her new dorm with her best friend/gymnast teammate.. but quickly finds out that their neighbor is none other than the one and only DJ Parker. The guy she hooked up with two years ago and successfully avoided until now. The hookup was less than memorable- but that’s not the only thing, or person, rather, that didn’t stand out from their little rendezvous. DJ doesn’t remember her, even after accidentally knocking her down and talking to her face to face.
After two years of avoiding DJ, Sutton is quickly realizing she won’t be able to put him off any longer. Especially when she gets partnered with him in their Advanced Multicamera Production class for a project. Eventually, feelings start developing because of the forced proximity- but what will it mean since they’re both competing for the same internship? Will their newly developed enemies with benefits relationship come to an end? Guess you’ll have to read and find out 😏
Preorder here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B...
Read if you enjoy:
Second chance
Reverse grumpy/sunshine
Enemies with benefits
Sports/football Romance
Spice 🌶️
This is book 3 of the Waverly Wildcats series, but the first that I’ve read. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything or lost when I jumped right in! It worked great as a stand-alone.
Sutton is a college student who moves into her new dorm with her best friend/gymnast teammate.. but quickly finds out that their neighbor is none other than the one and only DJ Parker. The guy she hooked up with two years ago and successfully avoided until now. The hookup was less than memorable- but that’s not the only thing, or person, rather, that didn’t stand out from their little rendezvous. DJ doesn’t remember her, even after accidentally knocking her down and talking to her face to face.
After two years of avoiding DJ, Sutton is quickly realizing she won’t be able to put him off any longer. Especially when she gets partnered with him in their Advanced Multicamera Production class for a project. Eventually, feelings start developing because of the forced proximity- but what will it mean since they’re both competing for the same internship? Will their newly developed enemies with benefits relationship come to an end? Guess you’ll have to read and find out 😏
Preorder here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B...
March 1, 2025
Sutton is a sassy Latina D1 gymnast who happens to dispise our boy DJ Parker. So when she ends put living in the same part of campus as the football team and avoiding him becomes nearly impossible, she is faced with her worst nightmare; involuntary interactions with Parker on a regular basis.
When Parker first interacts with Sutton he's instantly intrigued by her, from her blue hair and piercings to her clear disdain for him, he can't quite figure out why the chip on her shoulder is so big and how it could relate to him when - in his mind - they're complete strangers.
Sutton knows they have a sorted past, and she is willing to hold it against him for as long as she lives. But everywhere she turns, she runs into him. Not just at home but at the gym and even forced into being partners for a shared class, her resolve starts to dwindle, and little by little, Parker charms his way into her good graces. They find a way to work out their past and decide to be FWB as their chemistry is so damn HOT! Watching them both let down their guards and build a relationship while their determined to keep things casual was endearing. And when they realize it's love, they go all in, choosing each other and celebrating in their successes.
Stacy Gonzales and Tim Paige delivered wonderful performances. As a Latina, props to Stacy for fantastic pronunciation-we love BIPOC rep! And Tim has a charismatic cadence to his voice that leads well to characters like DJ. Such a fun read!!
When Parker first interacts with Sutton he's instantly intrigued by her, from her blue hair and piercings to her clear disdain for him, he can't quite figure out why the chip on her shoulder is so big and how it could relate to him when - in his mind - they're complete strangers.
Sutton knows they have a sorted past, and she is willing to hold it against him for as long as she lives. But everywhere she turns, she runs into him. Not just at home but at the gym and even forced into being partners for a shared class, her resolve starts to dwindle, and little by little, Parker charms his way into her good graces. They find a way to work out their past and decide to be FWB as their chemistry is so damn HOT! Watching them both let down their guards and build a relationship while their determined to keep things casual was endearing. And when they realize it's love, they go all in, choosing each other and celebrating in their successes.
Stacy Gonzales and Tim Paige delivered wonderful performances. As a Latina, props to Stacy for fantastic pronunciation-we love BIPOC rep! And Tim has a charismatic cadence to his voice that leads well to characters like DJ. Such a fun read!!
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