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Taming the Tackle
Ashley Sanders
They say yoga is a great way to unwind...
I've been off my game for a while. Maybe it's the stress of not making the playoffs in yet another season, but I'm struggling to revive the passion I once had for football. My best friend suggests I try yoga, claiming I need a way to destress since I have no game. On the field was one thing, but otherwise my dating life was just fine, fuck him very much!
Then he informs me his big brother recently opened a yoga studio in town. Next thing I know, I'm facing my high school crush. Even after all these years, the feelings for Jay have never disappeared. Not that it matters since he's straight. But then he makes an unexpected offer. A single night is all I'll get, and hell if I don't take it.
Taming the Tackle is a standalone best friend's older brother MM romance between a brawny tackle and a yoga instructor. It is part of the Austin Troopers shared world.
They say yoga is a great way to unwind...
I've been off my game for a while. Maybe it's the stress of not making the playoffs in yet another season, but I'm struggling to revive the passion I once had for football. My best friend suggests I try yoga, claiming I need a way to destress since I have no game. On the field was one thing, but otherwise my dating life was just fine, fuck him very much!
Then he informs me his big brother recently opened a yoga studio in town. Next thing I know, I'm facing my high school crush. Even after all these years, the feelings for Jay have never disappeared. Not that it matters since he's straight. But then he makes an unexpected offer. A single night is all I'll get, and hell if I don't take it.
Taming the Tackle is a standalone best friend's older brother MM romance between a brawny tackle and a yoga instructor. It is part of the Austin Troopers shared world.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2024
73 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
Rye Cox
22 books117 followersBe sure to follow to stay updated on latest release: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rye-cox
Rye is an M/M Romance author who is a romantic at heart. She believes that love conquers all, and that's why her stories are guaranteed to always have an HEA. When she's not writing, she escapes to the world of books or daydreams about becoming a future cat lady.
Rye is an M/M Romance author who is a romantic at heart. She believes that love conquers all, and that's why her stories are guaranteed to always have an HEA. When she's not writing, she escapes to the world of books or daydreams about becoming a future cat lady.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 28, 2025
This was a really sweet and extremely low angst story. I liked Ash and Jay, but I just never got particularly excited about their love story. This was my second book by Rye Cox and I’d certainly read more and recommend her if you’re needing a sweet love story with little conflict.
July 20, 2024
Taming the Tackle is part of the multi author shared world Austin Troopers series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This is Ashley and Jays story. All I can say is WOW, Rye Cox has done it again with another heart felt story. I couldn't put the book down once I started because I was so invested in Ash and Jays story. We get plenty of heat and a happy ever after. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
August 8, 2024
Taming the Tackle is part of the ‘Austin Troopers’ shared world. This stars Ashley Sanders, a football player, and Jay, a yoga instructor. It’s told in first person from Ash and Jay’s povs.
First the cover. I like it. The cover model is Ashley and it fits him.
The blurb gives a basic run-down of the plot so I’ll add a bit more. This is an insta-lust story on the part of Jay, but a long-term crush on the part of Ash. Jay is the older brother of Ash’s best friend, and Ash has had a crush on Jay since he was young. Jay thought it was just a cute thing and would tease Ash. But Ash never stopped wanting Jay. As for Ash, it was easy for him to fall into a relationship with Jay because he never stopped wanting Jay. As for Jay, I couldn’t figure out why he fell for Ash. He always looked at Ash as his little brother’s best friend, but after Jay moved back to town and met Ash again, he was suddenly attracted to him, but I never understood why he fell in love with Ash. I could believe Ash’s love for Jay, but didn’t believe Jay’s love for Ash because of the emphasis on Jay not feeling anything for Ash as they grew up, never thinking about Ash when Jay moved away, and no strong emotions for Ash throughout the story other than attraction, which leads me to the next paragraph.
This was a slow moving, get-to-know you plot. There was no conflict except Ash wondering what he was going to do about his career. Nothing really happens, and when that’s paired with lots of inner monologue, I found this book telling, rather than showing, which made it a bit boring for me. I wasn’t drawn into the story because there weren’t any deep emotions. Feelings and things were told. Ash and Jay told me what they thought, told what they felt, told what they saw, and told what they did. Neither MC drew me in because they never had me feeling what they felt. Paired with the lack of conflict, I had to put this book aside multiple times and read something else to keep my interest. Saying that, the editing and formatting on this ARC was extremely good.
The author did a good job of creating distinct voices and personalities through Ash and Jay’s dialogue and I didn’t have any problems understanding who’s pov I was in. I liked Ash. He was kind and focused, and went after what he wanted. He did need to come to terms with understanding why he played football and what he wanted to do after he quit. As to Jay, the author told us why he moved away from college, but Jay’s reasoning on him being afraid of new things seemed manufactured. There wasn’t anything Jay did early in the story that suggested it was part of his personality. It’s like the author just added it to create something to make Jay ‘imperfect.’ And Jay was far from perfect anyway. In Ash's eyes Jay was, but Jay seemed rather selfish, insecure, and willing to play with Ash's emotions for Jay's own benefit.
Overall, Taming the Tackle was an okay read. There’s no conflict, Ash and Jay are okay, but there’s too much monologue and telling, which didn’t pull me in leaving me feeling distant from the characters and plot. I give this story, 3 Stars. It’s okay if you don’t want to read anything stressful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First the cover. I like it. The cover model is Ashley and it fits him.
The blurb gives a basic run-down of the plot so I’ll add a bit more. This is an insta-lust story on the part of Jay, but a long-term crush on the part of Ash. Jay is the older brother of Ash’s best friend, and Ash has had a crush on Jay since he was young. Jay thought it was just a cute thing and would tease Ash. But Ash never stopped wanting Jay. As for Ash, it was easy for him to fall into a relationship with Jay because he never stopped wanting Jay. As for Jay, I couldn’t figure out why he fell for Ash. He always looked at Ash as his little brother’s best friend, but after Jay moved back to town and met Ash again, he was suddenly attracted to him, but I never understood why he fell in love with Ash. I could believe Ash’s love for Jay, but didn’t believe Jay’s love for Ash because of the emphasis on Jay not feeling anything for Ash as they grew up, never thinking about Ash when Jay moved away, and no strong emotions for Ash throughout the story other than attraction, which leads me to the next paragraph.
This was a slow moving, get-to-know you plot. There was no conflict except Ash wondering what he was going to do about his career. Nothing really happens, and when that’s paired with lots of inner monologue, I found this book telling, rather than showing, which made it a bit boring for me. I wasn’t drawn into the story because there weren’t any deep emotions. Feelings and things were told. Ash and Jay told me what they thought, told what they felt, told what they saw, and told what they did. Neither MC drew me in because they never had me feeling what they felt. Paired with the lack of conflict, I had to put this book aside multiple times and read something else to keep my interest. Saying that, the editing and formatting on this ARC was extremely good.
The author did a good job of creating distinct voices and personalities through Ash and Jay’s dialogue and I didn’t have any problems understanding who’s pov I was in. I liked Ash. He was kind and focused, and went after what he wanted. He did need to come to terms with understanding why he played football and what he wanted to do after he quit. As to Jay, the author told us why he moved away from college, but Jay’s reasoning on him being afraid of new things seemed manufactured. There wasn’t anything Jay did early in the story that suggested it was part of his personality. It’s like the author just added it to create something to make Jay ‘imperfect.’ And Jay was far from perfect anyway. In Ash's eyes Jay was, but Jay seemed rather selfish, insecure, and willing to play with Ash's emotions for Jay's own benefit.
Overall, Taming the Tackle was an okay read. There’s no conflict, Ash and Jay are okay, but there’s too much monologue and telling, which didn’t pull me in leaving me feeling distant from the characters and plot. I give this story, 3 Stars. It’s okay if you don’t want to read anything stressful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 30, 2024
Sweet best friends older brother romance x
I enjoyed watching both Ash and Jay as they worked their way through their mutual attraction. They're so well matched, and their attraction felt real. It's a low angst, steamy relationship, with some enjoyable secondary characters (one of whom's getting his own story 😊), and a story that makes you feel good. The epilogue is lovely.
I enjoyed watching both Ash and Jay as they worked their way through their mutual attraction. They're so well matched, and their attraction felt real. It's a low angst, steamy relationship, with some enjoyable secondary characters (one of whom's getting his own story 😊), and a story that makes you feel good. The epilogue is lovely.
August 3, 2024
This is a well written best friends brother MM romance with strong characters in Ash and Jay. The author takes you into their lives with a sweet romance and a hot chemistry and kept me turning the pages watching them come together. The story moves fluidly and is a terrific read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
August 8, 2024
DNF’D: IT CRASHED & BURNED FOR ME
I was really invested when it was just Ashley’s POV, all set to rate this a glowing 5 stars even. Ashley started out as a solid enough character: lovable, sensitive, compassionate, etc. But then things just fall apart when Jay’s chapters come in. It is immediately obvious that he is cardboard by his caricature of a personality. From the onset, the way he objectifies Ashley and his insufferable smugness at the knowledge that he has power over him instantly screams: egotistical and unlikeable; Ashley is nothing more than a piece of meat to him and he even relishes that he can easily use Ashley to get his rocks off, never mind if that would entail cruelly toying with the man’s feelings. He contradictorily justifies this as a “necessary evil” to put a stop to Ashley pining after him once and for all. Uhm, since when has treating another human being that way started being okay and stopped being creepy? How much more manipulative and predatory can one get? Okay, so lemme get this straight: It is perfectly all right to take advantage of Ashley’s lifelong admiration for him, to “have a taste of Ashley’s body for a bit of fun” and to hell with the lovesick man’s feelings; but it’s absolutely against his “unshakable” “moral code” to fall in love with Ashley and date him like any decent man and self-respecting human being would? because he’s his little brother’s best friend and doing that would complicate his life? Whut?? Wait, hang on. I can’t quite swallow the logic. Let me run that by again: Getting into a proper relationship with Ashley is violating his “bro code”, but… FUCKING HIM ONCE FOR KICKS (AND TO “EXPEDIENTLY” BREAK HIS HEART) ISN’T?? Hm. Okay, I get it. Makes a lot of sense, all right… If you were a stone-cold and calculating, utterly selfish psychopathic bastard. (I honestly don’t see how Ashley could have even fallen for such a jerk; I want to cry.)
There are other issues that cropped up as well, like how non-existent their romantic or sexual chemistry is despite us being told so (and not shown). How the pacing starts getting wonky and the emotions just go kaput when Jay starts narrating the story. How Jay’s whole character seems to clash wildly with Ashley’s memories and hero worship of him—the guy is a self-righteous hypocrite; furthermore, he’s unmistakably and UNDENIABLY gay as gay gets, yet Ashley can’t seem to see it, like he’s not encountered a single gay man in his life before?
I was so sure when I started reading this that it would be a sure-fave. But tragically, Jay’s chapters just made everything feel so contrived and rushing to force the plot. I would have put more effort into finishing this to give it a chance if I *at least* liked the characters. But I’m sorry, I couldn’t stand another minute of Jay. He’s a walking sick sack of blinding red flags, and the writing romanticises his arseholery as “cute” and “cool” instead of portraying it accurately and equitably as the warped toxic behaviour that it is, so yeah… I am feeling the farthest from “in love” or “romanced” at this point—yes, that might be intentionally part of the story as a “character flaw” that will be “resolved” later on; but no, someone who’s so comfortable having such thoughts about another human being (implying that he’s always been like that)—let alone towards someone who is supposedly practically “family” and especially vulnerable to him??—is just… ugh… beyond redemption. People who are completely void of empathy won’t suddenly develop it in a span of a few weeks—hells, not even in several years! (actually maybe even never!) so whatever “positive changes” are slated to happen to Jay (if any) will only feel affected and unrealistic. In other words: I’ve lost all reasons to keep reading.
I claimed an ARC of this over at Booksprout and this is my honest, voluntary review.
I was really invested when it was just Ashley’s POV, all set to rate this a glowing 5 stars even. Ashley started out as a solid enough character: lovable, sensitive, compassionate, etc. But then things just fall apart when Jay’s chapters come in. It is immediately obvious that he is cardboard by his caricature of a personality. From the onset, the way he objectifies Ashley and his insufferable smugness at the knowledge that he has power over him instantly screams: egotistical and unlikeable; Ashley is nothing more than a piece of meat to him and he even relishes that he can easily use Ashley to get his rocks off, never mind if that would entail cruelly toying with the man’s feelings. He contradictorily justifies this as a “necessary evil” to put a stop to Ashley pining after him once and for all. Uhm, since when has treating another human being that way started being okay and stopped being creepy? How much more manipulative and predatory can one get? Okay, so lemme get this straight: It is perfectly all right to take advantage of Ashley’s lifelong admiration for him, to “have a taste of Ashley’s body for a bit of fun” and to hell with the lovesick man’s feelings; but it’s absolutely against his “unshakable” “moral code” to fall in love with Ashley and date him like any decent man and self-respecting human being would? because he’s his little brother’s best friend and doing that would complicate his life? Whut?? Wait, hang on. I can’t quite swallow the logic. Let me run that by again: Getting into a proper relationship with Ashley is violating his “bro code”, but… FUCKING HIM ONCE FOR KICKS (AND TO “EXPEDIENTLY” BREAK HIS HEART) ISN’T?? Hm. Okay, I get it. Makes a lot of sense, all right… If you were a stone-cold and calculating, utterly selfish psychopathic bastard. (I honestly don’t see how Ashley could have even fallen for such a jerk; I want to cry.)
There are other issues that cropped up as well, like how non-existent their romantic or sexual chemistry is despite us being told so (and not shown). How the pacing starts getting wonky and the emotions just go kaput when Jay starts narrating the story. How Jay’s whole character seems to clash wildly with Ashley’s memories and hero worship of him—the guy is a self-righteous hypocrite; furthermore, he’s unmistakably and UNDENIABLY gay as gay gets, yet Ashley can’t seem to see it, like he’s not encountered a single gay man in his life before?
I was so sure when I started reading this that it would be a sure-fave. But tragically, Jay’s chapters just made everything feel so contrived and rushing to force the plot. I would have put more effort into finishing this to give it a chance if I *at least* liked the characters. But I’m sorry, I couldn’t stand another minute of Jay. He’s a walking sick sack of blinding red flags, and the writing romanticises his arseholery as “cute” and “cool” instead of portraying it accurately and equitably as the warped toxic behaviour that it is, so yeah… I am feeling the farthest from “in love” or “romanced” at this point—yes, that might be intentionally part of the story as a “character flaw” that will be “resolved” later on; but no, someone who’s so comfortable having such thoughts about another human being (implying that he’s always been like that)—let alone towards someone who is supposedly practically “family” and especially vulnerable to him??—is just… ugh… beyond redemption. People who are completely void of empathy won’t suddenly develop it in a span of a few weeks—hells, not even in several years! (actually maybe even never!) so whatever “positive changes” are slated to happen to Jay (if any) will only feel affected and unrealistic. In other words: I’ve lost all reasons to keep reading.
I claimed an ARC of this over at Booksprout and this is my honest, voluntary review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2024
Suddenly, its the beginning of August, and I have so many currently-borrowed-ARCs due. Here's to me speed-reading (which, frankly, I'm great at). "Taming The Tackle" by Rye Cox. Its the fist book in her Austin Troopers series.
["They say yoga is a great way to unwind...
I've been off my game for a while. Maybe it's the stress of not making the playoffs in yet another season, but I'm struggling to revive the passion I once had for football. My best friend suggests I try yoga, claiming I need a way to destress since I have no game. On the field was one thing, but otherwise my dating life was just fine, fuck him very much!
Then he informs me his big brother recently opened a yoga studio in town. Next thing I know, I'm facing my high school crush. Even after all these years, the feelings for Jay have never disappeared. Not that it matters since he's straight. But then he makes an unexpected offer. A single night is all I'll get, and hell if I don't take it."]
This book was adorable as fuuuuck. I mean, there was barley any angst, a teenage crush come to fruition, a found family, dreams realized, sweetness fluff, and spice steamed. There was a family of match-makers and fully supportive friends. There was stolen moments in between hectic obligations. There was love when only one moment was promised. There was dedication and trust and adoration and commitment. It was beautiful.
Though I shouldn't be surprised, all of that (and more) is signature Rye.
#booksprout #arcs #arcteammember
#tamingthetackle #ryecox #austintroopers #austintroopersseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["They say yoga is a great way to unwind...
I've been off my game for a while. Maybe it's the stress of not making the playoffs in yet another season, but I'm struggling to revive the passion I once had for football. My best friend suggests I try yoga, claiming I need a way to destress since I have no game. On the field was one thing, but otherwise my dating life was just fine, fuck him very much!
Then he informs me his big brother recently opened a yoga studio in town. Next thing I know, I'm facing my high school crush. Even after all these years, the feelings for Jay have never disappeared. Not that it matters since he's straight. But then he makes an unexpected offer. A single night is all I'll get, and hell if I don't take it."]
This book was adorable as fuuuuck. I mean, there was barley any angst, a teenage crush come to fruition, a found family, dreams realized, sweetness fluff, and spice steamed. There was a family of match-makers and fully supportive friends. There was stolen moments in between hectic obligations. There was love when only one moment was promised. There was dedication and trust and adoration and commitment. It was beautiful.
Though I shouldn't be surprised, all of that (and more) is signature Rye.
#booksprout #arcs #arcteammember
#tamingthetackle #ryecox #austintroopers #austintroopersseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
August 17, 2024
This was my first time reading this author and, honestly, it was the first time I’d heard of them but the description sounded so good that I snatched it up and I’m so glad I did! It’s a full length book and totally angst free, something I absolutely LOVE but doesn’t happen that often.
Jay and Ash were adorable together, seriously. Ash had been crushing on Jay, his best friend’s older brother, since he was in high school and even now that he was an offensive tackle in professional football, his feelings had never changed, even without any encouragement from Jay. Now that they’ve crossed paths again and it seems like Jay has finally noticed him, Ash is refusing to give up without giving it everything he has.
I LOVED this book! I’ve never made a secret that I don’t care for angsty reads—there’s enough angst in our everyday lives without having to go and search some out so when I finally find one, I can’t help but tell everyone about it. This particular book features two successful men, both mature, educated and hardworking and they actually COMMUNICATE with each other instead of making assumptions or flying off the handle over every little thing (shocking, I know!!).
If there are other readers out there who also prefer a little less angst in their romance, this may be the book for you and, if that’s the case, I recommend it wholeheartedly. For me, it earned itself 4.5 stars!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jay and Ash were adorable together, seriously. Ash had been crushing on Jay, his best friend’s older brother, since he was in high school and even now that he was an offensive tackle in professional football, his feelings had never changed, even without any encouragement from Jay. Now that they’ve crossed paths again and it seems like Jay has finally noticed him, Ash is refusing to give up without giving it everything he has.
I LOVED this book! I’ve never made a secret that I don’t care for angsty reads—there’s enough angst in our everyday lives without having to go and search some out so when I finally find one, I can’t help but tell everyone about it. This particular book features two successful men, both mature, educated and hardworking and they actually COMMUNICATE with each other instead of making assumptions or flying off the handle over every little thing (shocking, I know!!).
If there are other readers out there who also prefer a little less angst in their romance, this may be the book for you and, if that’s the case, I recommend it wholeheartedly. For me, it earned itself 4.5 stars!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2024
Ash has had feelings for his best friend’s older brother for a very long time. And unfortunately for him, everyone knows it. Including Jay. But it’s been 10 years since that crush began and they aren’t teenagers anymore. Ash may have not seen Jay much over the years but that’s about to change. Howie, Ash’s best friend, encourages Ash to take a yoga class to relax after his latest NFL season has ended. And what better class to take than Jay’s? Unable to resist seeing Jay again, he goes. And is super surprised to learn that Jay is up to dating men and that the way he looks at Ash might mean that he is interested in him too. Jay knows Ash had a crush on him when they were teenagers but looking at him now, he begins to wonder how deep that ran. And the attraction and chemistry between them is loud and clear. So maybe they can have one night. One night to get it out of their systems and remove any chance of it being weird in the future when they have to continue to cross paths. But like Ash hoped, one night isn’t enough. Not for either of them. And it’s only a matter of time until these two come to terms just exactly how much they mean to one another and what a future together could look like. Loved these two! So sweet. I love that Ash never really got over his crush and that he finally has the courage to do something about it. And that Jay actually has feelings for him back! This was just another fun book to this series and I’m looking forward to the next one!
July 25, 2024
I swear, every time I read another Rye Cox book, it never feels long enough! I sped through Jay & Ash's story incredibly fast! But I loved every second of it, and I can see it's a fun addition to the multi-author series about the Austin Troopers team.
I loved the sweet awkwardness we get from Ash when confronted with his well known crush on Jay. And Jay's response and reaction to the now very much grown Ash is really wonderful to witness as well. Jay never told Ash that he was Bi, but his reactions to Ash told Ash all he'd wanted/needed to know. Once the duo really take some time to be alone together, their entertaining relationship just takes off, despite the fact that Jay said they'll only have a one-time interaction.
I appreciate that Rye Cox gives each of the MCs a realistic issue to deal with in their everyday lives, but that those issues don't push the characters into the dreaded third-act misunderstanding or breakup. The story is really low angst, and it was great to see all the outside support the MCs received from family, friends, and Ash's football team. There were no moments of homophobia, which is a bit of an anomaly for MM football stories.
Taming the Tackle: A Best Friend's Older Brother MM Romance is a wonderful & romantic read that centers on two men who've known one another since high school as friends, but went separate ways in college and beyond. They come together again when Jay's brother encourages Ash to join Jay's yoga studio to improve his football game.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved the sweet awkwardness we get from Ash when confronted with his well known crush on Jay. And Jay's response and reaction to the now very much grown Ash is really wonderful to witness as well. Jay never told Ash that he was Bi, but his reactions to Ash told Ash all he'd wanted/needed to know. Once the duo really take some time to be alone together, their entertaining relationship just takes off, despite the fact that Jay said they'll only have a one-time interaction.
I appreciate that Rye Cox gives each of the MCs a realistic issue to deal with in their everyday lives, but that those issues don't push the characters into the dreaded third-act misunderstanding or breakup. The story is really low angst, and it was great to see all the outside support the MCs received from family, friends, and Ash's football team. There were no moments of homophobia, which is a bit of an anomaly for MM football stories.
Taming the Tackle: A Best Friend's Older Brother MM Romance is a wonderful & romantic read that centers on two men who've known one another since high school as friends, but went separate ways in college and beyond. They come together again when Jay's brother encourages Ash to join Jay's yoga studio to improve his football game.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
August 2, 2024
This book is part of the Austin Troopers series and can be enjoyed as a standalone. This is the story of Ashley Sanders and Jayden Cobb. Ash plays left tackle for the Austin Troopers. His team is new and not doing very well. On top of that, Ash has lost his love for the game. Maybe he is a washout after all. While talking to his best friend Howie; Howie suggests he try yoga to relax. He recommends going to Bodhi Studios. The same studio that his brother Jay has just opened. The same Jay that he had a crush on all through high school. Figuring he has nothing to lose, Ash shows up for a class. Jay Ash is surprised when Ash shows up for a class. He proudly shows him around his new studio. While Jay is treating him like family, the chemistry between the two of them continues to grow. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I enjoyed their developing relationship and how they supported each other. This is a sweet story with little angst. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2024
“He looks at you like you’re the only person to exist. Hell, I doubt he even notices I’m here half the time, well, except for when he’s getting jealous over me because we’re stuck together like glue.”
Taming the Tackle by Rye Cox is the third book in the Austin Troopers series. I enjoy Rye Cox’s books—the stories, the characters, and her writing style. This book is a great addition to the series.
Ash is an NFL player; he’s had a crush on Jay (his best friend’s older brother) since high school. They haven’t been in contact since Jay left for college, but Howie suggests Ash should take yoga classes in Jay’s studio to help him relax because he’s too wound up.
Once they meet at the yoga studio, and after spending some time together, Ash realises his crush on Jay can become something real. The chemistry between them is palpable since the first day Ash went to the yoga studio.
This is a low angst story filled with emotion, while Ash and Jay support each other through their individual struggles.
“I’d always thought his crush on me started because I was the mysterious older brother of his best friend, or hell, maybe he liked the way I looked, but as I looked into his steadfast eyes, they told me I’d been entirely wrong. I’d had my fair share of crushes over the years that had developed from someone’s appearance. But now that he was sharing the moment when his feelings had started, I was learning that his crush wasn’t as frivolous as I thought.”
I couldn’t put the book down. This is a wonderful read.
I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Taming the Tackle by Rye Cox is the third book in the Austin Troopers series. I enjoy Rye Cox’s books—the stories, the characters, and her writing style. This book is a great addition to the series.
Ash is an NFL player; he’s had a crush on Jay (his best friend’s older brother) since high school. They haven’t been in contact since Jay left for college, but Howie suggests Ash should take yoga classes in Jay’s studio to help him relax because he’s too wound up.
Once they meet at the yoga studio, and after spending some time together, Ash realises his crush on Jay can become something real. The chemistry between them is palpable since the first day Ash went to the yoga studio.
This is a low angst story filled with emotion, while Ash and Jay support each other through their individual struggles.
“I’d always thought his crush on me started because I was the mysterious older brother of his best friend, or hell, maybe he liked the way I looked, but as I looked into his steadfast eyes, they told me I’d been entirely wrong. I’d had my fair share of crushes over the years that had developed from someone’s appearance. But now that he was sharing the moment when his feelings had started, I was learning that his crush wasn’t as frivolous as I thought.”
I couldn’t put the book down. This is a wonderful read.
I received an ARC from the author for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
August 10, 2024
A CRUSH OF 10 YEARS LEADS TO HAPPINESS!💕
I love this authors work and although I have not read the other shared world of the Austin Troopers, this can be read as a stand-alone.
I loved Jayden Cobb as an older brother to Howie and a best friend to Sam but most of all I loved him for Ashley Sanders and what happiness he brought to the Left Tackle softie…
“It took a different kind of braveness to stay, and that was something Ash was teaching me.”
Ashley brought confidence back to Jayden regarding his move back to Austin just like Jayden always brought confidence and passion for football back to Ashley- it started on the bleachers in high school after Ashley lost his father…
They were just the ultimate couple goals even their family and friends saw it coming a mile away or decade away- although Jayden only wanted a one nighter or so he thought… until Ashley swept his feet from under him…
Thank you for the sweet epilogue which showcases just how deep their love for each other is!
I look forward to reading Sam’s story and hope he finally finds his dream man!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love this authors work and although I have not read the other shared world of the Austin Troopers, this can be read as a stand-alone.
I loved Jayden Cobb as an older brother to Howie and a best friend to Sam but most of all I loved him for Ashley Sanders and what happiness he brought to the Left Tackle softie…
“It took a different kind of braveness to stay, and that was something Ash was teaching me.”
Ashley brought confidence back to Jayden regarding his move back to Austin just like Jayden always brought confidence and passion for football back to Ashley- it started on the bleachers in high school after Ashley lost his father…
They were just the ultimate couple goals even their family and friends saw it coming a mile away or decade away- although Jayden only wanted a one nighter or so he thought… until Ashley swept his feet from under him…
Thank you for the sweet epilogue which showcases just how deep their love for each other is!
I look forward to reading Sam’s story and hope he finally finds his dream man!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2024
So a guy walks into a yoga studio and you know this is going to be fun. Ash is a NFL player and he is currently at home during the off season. It's now tine to find someone to have some fun with. The Yoga instructor is Ash's best friend's older brother, who he has had a crush on since forever.
Their lightness together is fun and flirty and despite them sometimes having doubts about life choices, leading to deep conversations they always cheer each other up. Jay is a Yoga instructor and therefore very flexible and bendy and this skill is definitely put to full use. A non angsty, swoony story, where two men fall in love. They fall quite quickly, but they have known each other for so long they didn't need much time. I am so pleased Sam is getting a story in a spin off series, he was a fun character.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Their lightness together is fun and flirty and despite them sometimes having doubts about life choices, leading to deep conversations they always cheer each other up. Jay is a Yoga instructor and therefore very flexible and bendy and this skill is definitely put to full use. A non angsty, swoony story, where two men fall in love. They fall quite quickly, but they have known each other for so long they didn't need much time. I am so pleased Sam is getting a story in a spin off series, he was a fun character.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2024
Taming the Tackle is a contemporary sports MM romance by Rye Cox, and is the first book of the Austin Troopers series.
The Austin Troopers are a relatively new football team and they are having trouble catching their stride in the league. Left tackle for the Austin Troopers, Ash, has been particularly off his game for a while. His best friend suggests that Ash tries yoga as his younger brother is recently back in Austin and has opened his own yoga studio. Ash has had a crush on his best friend's older brother, Jay, since they were in school. Going to Jay's yoga studio changes both their lives.
This is a super sweet romance, low on angst, but has a lot of heart. This was a somewhat relaxing romance to read. I connected with both Jay and Ash, they are both easy to love and their chemistry together is clear from the get go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Austin Troopers are a relatively new football team and they are having trouble catching their stride in the league. Left tackle for the Austin Troopers, Ash, has been particularly off his game for a while. His best friend suggests that Ash tries yoga as his younger brother is recently back in Austin and has opened his own yoga studio. Ash has had a crush on his best friend's older brother, Jay, since they were in school. Going to Jay's yoga studio changes both their lives.
This is a super sweet romance, low on angst, but has a lot of heart. This was a somewhat relaxing romance to read. I connected with both Jay and Ash, they are both easy to love and their chemistry together is clear from the get go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 24, 2024
TAMING THE TACKLE
This was a wonderful "first crush to HEA" story, and these characters will make you smile as soon as you meet them!
Who cannot relate to having a first crush that never goes away?! I love how Rye Cox wrote these guys meeting ten years after high school and learning about one another as grown men, but also learning about their secret crushes on each other back in the day.
While Ashley is a football player, the storyline is not heavily filled with sports talk. It concentrates on the relationship that builds between him and Jay. There are wonderful side characters that help their romance along the way, and plenty of laugh out loud and awwwww moments throughout the book. So if you are looking for romance, and friendship, and humor, you are looking for Taming the Tackle by Rye Cox! Add it to your library, you will be happy you did!
This was a wonderful "first crush to HEA" story, and these characters will make you smile as soon as you meet them!
Who cannot relate to having a first crush that never goes away?! I love how Rye Cox wrote these guys meeting ten years after high school and learning about one another as grown men, but also learning about their secret crushes on each other back in the day.
While Ashley is a football player, the storyline is not heavily filled with sports talk. It concentrates on the relationship that builds between him and Jay. There are wonderful side characters that help their romance along the way, and plenty of laugh out loud and awwwww moments throughout the book. So if you are looking for romance, and friendship, and humor, you are looking for Taming the Tackle by Rye Cox! Add it to your library, you will be happy you did!
July 25, 2024
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Meeting your crush years later is always a great start to a story. Especially when the crushing was mutual, and apparently still is.
While they might convince themselves that once will be enough to work it out of their system, we all know before they even begin they don’t stand a chance at being casual.
It’s a cute story, with two men finding peace in themselves and in life. They bring balance and amazing support to one another. It’s the kind of story that makes you feel content and warm. It also makes you appreciate flexibility!
Meeting your crush years later is always a great start to a story. Especially when the crushing was mutual, and apparently still is.
While they might convince themselves that once will be enough to work it out of their system, we all know before they even begin they don’t stand a chance at being casual.
It’s a cute story, with two men finding peace in themselves and in life. They bring balance and amazing support to one another. It’s the kind of story that makes you feel content and warm. It also makes you appreciate flexibility!
July 27, 2024
This was such a fun and fulfilling experience between the two characters! To say they were made for each other would be obvious., especially given Ashley’s lifelong crush, but to later discover Jay also had some underlying feelings as well! And not to mention, the Troopers are in the playoffs!!
After reading MM for so long, the smut scenes begin to blur together. But, Rye definitely caught my attention with that reverse cowgirl split!!! Something rarely read, maybe because not everyone is limber enough, but our beloved yoga instructor laid it down with ease (pun intended). And, I especially liked that the story was zeroed in on the characters relationship rather than Ash’s friendship with Howie.
Cannot wait to continue with the next installment and see how the team pans out in the playoffs!
After reading MM for so long, the smut scenes begin to blur together. But, Rye definitely caught my attention with that reverse cowgirl split!!! Something rarely read, maybe because not everyone is limber enough, but our beloved yoga instructor laid it down with ease (pun intended). And, I especially liked that the story was zeroed in on the characters relationship rather than Ash’s friendship with Howie.
Cannot wait to continue with the next installment and see how the team pans out in the playoffs!
August 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this book, the characters were engaging, their chemistry was hot, the relationship developed naturally over time, the sexy times were a natural part of the relationship rather than something thrown in to just add spice, and the yoga studio and the kid’s football camps added much to the story to help us learn more about the MCs and their passions. I appreciated those sections more than I would have more focus on the team and games. This book was really focused on Ash and Jay and their growing love for each other, it was low angst, with the rekindling of feelings from when they were teens, and now feelings on a more mature level. I just had a really good feeling throughout the book, like these two were meant to be. I would recommend this book if you want a feel good, really satisfying love story.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my voluntary review.
I received an ARC from the author, and this is my voluntary review.
August 8, 2024
Once is not enough. Ashley's performance anxiety is showing after his team not making the playoffs for another season. His best friend suggests Yoga, and surprise surprise, his older brother, Jay is the Instructor. Ash, has been crushing on Jay for years lamenting hs is straight. Jay, who is bi noticed his younger brother's best friend, but he is younger. Now, while Ash is trying to find a way to find his balance and restore his love for the game the two men meet as equals. Working together, getting to know each other is a smooth read. They agree to a one nighter thinking it will be enough. Ash and Jay get to work through personal as well as professional issues when their emotions don't get the memo about one time. Nicely done. Great characters, good flow. Hot cover art! Nicely done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 23, 2024
Ash & Jay – the couple everyone else saw coming. Since high school, these two have been circling each other, never daring to go beyond friends. Jay is the big brother to Ashley’s best friend, and thought the straight bro was off limits.
When Jay opens a yoga studio in their hometown, Ash is persuaded to sign up for classes to help improve his game. What NFL star doesn’t need breathing techniques and stretching?
After a once-and-done encounter proves too hot to resist, the couple try their best to be platonic hook-ups; but fate has other plans. This hot yogi and pro baller find that love and yoga go hand in hand. Downward dog will never be the same again!
Can’t wait for the next installment in this series to see Sean gets his happily ever after.
When Jay opens a yoga studio in their hometown, Ash is persuaded to sign up for classes to help improve his game. What NFL star doesn’t need breathing techniques and stretching?
After a once-and-done encounter proves too hot to resist, the couple try their best to be platonic hook-ups; but fate has other plans. This hot yogi and pro baller find that love and yoga go hand in hand. Downward dog will never be the same again!
Can’t wait for the next installment in this series to see Sean gets his happily ever after.
August 5, 2024
From the very beginning, we are introduced to Ash and Howie, best friends since their teenage years. The story takes a sweet turn when Ash's secret crush on Jay, Howie's brother, returns home to open a yoga stufio.
Howie's playful encouragement for Ash to join Jay's yoga classes to hopefully it will help with his football slump.
The characters are relatable and grounded, making their interactions feel authentic and warm. The story beautifully captures the essence of finding love in familiar places and how some feelings remain unchanged, even as we grow older.
This was feel-good read that will leave you smiling. It's perfect for those who enjoy sweet romances. If you're looking for a story that celebrates friendship, love, and second chances, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Howie's playful encouragement for Ash to join Jay's yoga classes to hopefully it will help with his football slump.
The characters are relatable and grounded, making their interactions feel authentic and warm. The story beautifully captures the essence of finding love in familiar places and how some feelings remain unchanged, even as we grow older.
This was feel-good read that will leave you smiling. It's perfect for those who enjoy sweet romances. If you're looking for a story that celebrates friendship, love, and second chances, this one is definitely worth picking up.
July 25, 2024
Ending on a bad season with the NFL, from the insistence of his best friend, Ash takes up yoga to center himself. Jay is back in Austin now running his own yoga studio, where his little brother sent his best friend to try it out. It's been years since their paths crossed, yet Ash still has a crush on his best friend's older brother. These two are honestly just plain adorable, with off the charts chemistry.
In their getting to know the older version, they learn to let fears go and be happy. The relationship is seamless and just one of those books you pick up when you want no drama and just want to smile. So, for me, it's a perfect summer read.
In their getting to know the older version, they learn to let fears go and be happy. The relationship is seamless and just one of those books you pick up when you want no drama and just want to smile. So, for me, it's a perfect summer read.
July 25, 2024
Taming the Tackle - Jay and Ash
‘It wasn’t just a simple little crush for him, and I wasn’t as detached as I’d tried to fool myself into believing I was. A one-and-done with him was never a possibility. Ash Sanders was never getting out of my system.’
Rye Cox has written a lovely and steamy mm romance, where a long held crush of a bff’s older brother matures into a loving relationship for professional football player Ash.
Sweet and sensuous, Jay’s dream of opening his own yoga studio brings him back to his hometown, where someone special is waiting!
‘It wasn’t just a simple little crush for him, and I wasn’t as detached as I’d tried to fool myself into believing I was. A one-and-done with him was never a possibility. Ash Sanders was never getting out of my system.’
Rye Cox has written a lovely and steamy mm romance, where a long held crush of a bff’s older brother matures into a loving relationship for professional football player Ash.
Sweet and sensuous, Jay’s dream of opening his own yoga studio brings him back to his hometown, where someone special is waiting!
July 22, 2024
Ash had had a crush on his BF's brother Jay since high school. Now that he's a pro football player, he takes a yoga class from Jay. They decide to share one night to get it out of their systems, but Ash wants more. Soon they are a wonderful pair, secure in their wants and needs with life changes ahead. It was an enjoyable sports romance with everyone behind them. I received a copy of this book an this is my honest opinion.
July 31, 2024
3.5⭐️
This was a lovely and low angst take on best friend’s brother romance. I loved the inclusion of Jay’s yoga business into the story, it added some extra fun to Ash and Jay’s chemistry. These are really likable characters and I loved the support they find in their friends and family- Jay’s mom and brother were a highlight. This was a sweet and fun couple, with excellent spicy moments, a very entertaining read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This was a lovely and low angst take on best friend’s brother romance. I loved the inclusion of Jay’s yoga business into the story, it added some extra fun to Ash and Jay’s chemistry. These are really likable characters and I loved the support they find in their friends and family- Jay’s mom and brother were a highlight. This was a sweet and fun couple, with excellent spicy moments, a very entertaining read.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 2, 2024
LOVE, LOVE this book. Brother's best friend has always been one of my favorite tropes and Rye did not disappoint. Ash and Jay are so perfect for each other. Rye has always made niche characters (Corio Heights) and she has hit the mark again with a football star, loving the game and what it stands for, but not always what it brings and a yoga loving hottie wanting him to get bendy and de-stressed. I can't wait for Sam's book.
July 24, 2024
I absolutely loved that a lot of time was spent on the yoga side of things! Ash and Jay sharing that peacefulness together. I think I need to try some yoga myself now. These two were attracted to one another for a while but they had never had the chance to connect with each other. I loved that they each had emotional challenges to overcome but their feelings for each other were pretty easy.
July 27, 2024
Ash and Jay’s story was a delight to read, very hard to put down once I’d started, and over before I was ready. These two men are lovely characters, and their story was sweet and heartwarming, with heat and no angst. I highly recommend this and the bonus short, which finished their story beautifully.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 31, 2024
This was such an enjoyable fun story! I love brothers best friend trope so this was right up my alley! Ash and Jay were such great characters and I loved seeing their relationship evolve! Very cute and sweet story with low angst! Highly recommend! This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
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