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Love in Play #2
Totally Geeked
Harrison’s love life is a parade of fun, flirty encounters thanks to every dating app you can imagine, but nothing sticks. Finally, sick of the endless cycle of Friday night hookups, he hits uninstall on the apps and challenges the universe to show him that he deserves someone better.
What he didn’t expect was the universe throwing him a curveball in the form of his best friend’s younger brother. Despite being best friends with Gordon for years, he’s never actually met his siblings and even half-joked they didn’t exist.
But there they are, at a party at Gordon’s place, and one brother, Arlo, is seriously hard to ignore. He’s nothing like Gordon. Quiet, adorable, and totally off-limits… which sucks. But when Harrison spots an opportunity to help him steady his nerves on his children’s book tour, he jumps at the chance to get to know him better, because spending time with him feels like the most right thing he’s done in forever.
The more time they spend together, the less Harrison can imagine being with anyone else. But going after what he wants means betraying his best friend. Can he find the courage to catch life’s most unexpected of pitches?
What he didn’t expect was the universe throwing him a curveball in the form of his best friend’s younger brother. Despite being best friends with Gordon for years, he’s never actually met his siblings and even half-joked they didn’t exist.
But there they are, at a party at Gordon’s place, and one brother, Arlo, is seriously hard to ignore. He’s nothing like Gordon. Quiet, adorable, and totally off-limits… which sucks. But when Harrison spots an opportunity to help him steady his nerves on his children’s book tour, he jumps at the chance to get to know him better, because spending time with him feels like the most right thing he’s done in forever.
The more time they spend together, the less Harrison can imagine being with anyone else. But going after what he wants means betraying his best friend. Can he find the courage to catch life’s most unexpected of pitches?
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2024
38 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Becca Jackson
15 books42 followersBecca Jackson writes MM romance that delivers heart, heat, and happily ever afters for some totally adorkable and fabulous guys.
Becca’s books have all your favorites, small-town romances, bi-awakenings, sports, friends to lovers, and enemies to lovers too, but no matter the trope that takes your fancy, you’ll always find a happily ever after.
Becca’s books have all your favorites, small-town romances, bi-awakenings, sports, friends to lovers, and enemies to lovers too, but no matter the trope that takes your fancy, you’ll always find a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
April 6, 2025
Oh I loved this!!!
I'm a massive fan of book 1 (Totally Ducked) and I didn't think this would top it but oh it came soooo close it might just have done it (re-reading Totally Ducked now, just to double check and to re-live the love I have for Duckie 😍).
This is Harry (Harrison) and Arlo's story and it's actually quite sweet. Harry has had enough of random hook ups, meaningless sex and one night stands so decides to delete all the hook up apps and wait for the universe to bring him his 'one'.
Enter Arlo 😊 brother to Harry's best friend (I mean, obviously haha). He's nothing like his brothers (more of a geek than the Jock) and, although he has a crush on Harry he never believes anything will ever happen between them. Fate steps in and they start off as friends but the relationship really grows and neither can deny what's clearly between them (I'll stop there because spoilers).
They're really sweet together and completely believable. This is the definition of opposites attract and I absolutely LOVED every single word of this. Bring on book 3!!
Ian and Duckie pop up in this (Duckie more than Ian but I'm OK with that 😊) and it's actually nice to read more than 1 or 2 lines about them (pizza scene 😂🍕).
I'm off to read book 1 all over again, I forgot just how much I loved it (no doubt I'll re-read this again straight after it 😂)
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
I'm a massive fan of book 1 (Totally Ducked) and I didn't think this would top it but oh it came soooo close it might just have done it (re-reading Totally Ducked now, just to double check and to re-live the love I have for Duckie 😍).
This is Harry (Harrison) and Arlo's story and it's actually quite sweet. Harry has had enough of random hook ups, meaningless sex and one night stands so decides to delete all the hook up apps and wait for the universe to bring him his 'one'.
Enter Arlo 😊 brother to Harry's best friend (I mean, obviously haha). He's nothing like his brothers (more of a geek than the Jock) and, although he has a crush on Harry he never believes anything will ever happen between them. Fate steps in and they start off as friends but the relationship really grows and neither can deny what's clearly between them (I'll stop there because spoilers).
They're really sweet together and completely believable. This is the definition of opposites attract and I absolutely LOVED every single word of this. Bring on book 3!!
Ian and Duckie pop up in this (Duckie more than Ian but I'm OK with that 😊) and it's actually nice to read more than 1 or 2 lines about them (pizza scene 😂🍕).
I'm off to read book 1 all over again, I forgot just how much I loved it (no doubt I'll re-read this again straight after it 😂)
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
May 27, 2024
⚾️ 𝚃𝚘𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝙶𝚎𝚎𝚔𝚎𝚍 ⚾️
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4/5 ⭐️
𝚃𝚘𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝙶𝚎𝚎𝚔𝚎𝚍 releases 5/29
↓↓
This was such a cute read.
Arlo the nerdy, shy author. He just published his first children's book about banana ball that his older brother plays on. He is geeky, awkward but also super sweet and caring.
Harry has been hooking up for awhile but realized that he wants something more serious so he deletes all his dating apps and hopes the perfect guy will land in his lap. In stumbles Arlo in all his awkward glory.
The realtionship between these two was fast but it was so sweet and wholesome.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
⚾️ Best Friends Brother
⚾️ Friends to Lovers
⚾️ Jock x Geek
⚾️ Forbidden romance
⚾️ Only One Bed
⚾️ BANANA BALL!
🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
4/5 ⭐️
𝚃𝚘𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝙶𝚎𝚎𝚔𝚎𝚍 releases 5/29
↓↓
This was such a cute read.
Arlo the nerdy, shy author. He just published his first children's book about banana ball that his older brother plays on. He is geeky, awkward but also super sweet and caring.
Harry has been hooking up for awhile but realized that he wants something more serious so he deletes all his dating apps and hopes the perfect guy will land in his lap. In stumbles Arlo in all his awkward glory.
The realtionship between these two was fast but it was so sweet and wholesome.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
⚾️ Best Friends Brother
⚾️ Friends to Lovers
⚾️ Jock x Geek
⚾️ Forbidden romance
⚾️ Only One Bed
⚾️ BANANA BALL!
August 28, 2025
3.75/5 ⭐️ 3/5 🌶️
- Brother’s best friend
- Age gap
- Low angst
- Golden retriever, banana ball player MMC
- Clumsy, geeky, author and illustrator MMC
- Secret relationship
- Brother’s best friend
- Age gap
- Low angst
- Golden retriever, banana ball player MMC
- Clumsy, geeky, author and illustrator MMC
- Secret relationship
December 4, 2024
3.75⭐️
Once again, all together real cute, very low angst, fluffy sweetness with some good spice. No nonsense immature miscommunication bs - just good ole fashioned talking shit through. Glad to see the author not fall into frustrating tropes that cause that make shit more complicated than they need to.
Once again, all together real cute, very low angst, fluffy sweetness with some good spice. No nonsense immature miscommunication bs - just good ole fashioned talking shit through. Glad to see the author not fall into frustrating tropes that cause that make shit more complicated than they need to.
June 14, 2024
I just loved Arlo so much, he is my favorite type of character—one of those guys who are shy and reserved, so sweet and seemingly innocent…but then turn out to be such naughty ones in private once they find their person. This is absolutely Arlo!
As for Harrison, he’s that player and hookup king who finally realizes he wants more. He initially is just helping Arlo out getting to (and through) his first author signing, but that winds up turning into all of his author events, leading first to a great friendship and then eventually to more.
These two are wonderful together, and once Arlo gets comfortable they get pretty spicy together as well. I really enjoyed seeing him come out of his shell, and not just with Harrison.
This is considered a sports romance, with that sport being Banana Ball. I’d never heard of this, so at first I thought it was something the author had made up. There is not a lot of description of it in the book, though as the second book of the series I could have missed an explanation if it was given in book one. Since I haven’t read the first book yet, I think this one would have benefited with a quick overview of exactly what Banana Ball is.
With a great cast of characters and plenty of opportunities for more books in the series, I’m looking forward to more of these characters getting their own happily-ever-afters. Totally Geeked was a solid 4-star read for me, and is a story I’d recommend to any M/M romance fan. There’s not a heavy emphasis on the sports aspect, things are more relationship-centered, so even if you’re not a sports person you’ll still enjoy Arlo and Harrison’s tale. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
As for Harrison, he’s that player and hookup king who finally realizes he wants more. He initially is just helping Arlo out getting to (and through) his first author signing, but that winds up turning into all of his author events, leading first to a great friendship and then eventually to more.
These two are wonderful together, and once Arlo gets comfortable they get pretty spicy together as well. I really enjoyed seeing him come out of his shell, and not just with Harrison.
This is considered a sports romance, with that sport being Banana Ball. I’d never heard of this, so at first I thought it was something the author had made up. There is not a lot of description of it in the book, though as the second book of the series I could have missed an explanation if it was given in book one. Since I haven’t read the first book yet, I think this one would have benefited with a quick overview of exactly what Banana Ball is.
With a great cast of characters and plenty of opportunities for more books in the series, I’m looking forward to more of these characters getting their own happily-ever-afters. Totally Geeked was a solid 4-star read for me, and is a story I’d recommend to any M/M romance fan. There’s not a heavy emphasis on the sports aspect, things are more relationship-centered, so even if you’re not a sports person you’ll still enjoy Arlo and Harrison’s tale. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
May 26, 2024
I really enjoyed book 2 of the Love in Play series which features banana ball-so fun! This book spotlights Catcher Harry and geeky author/illustrator Arlo. This was a fun, no angst brother's best friend read!
June 24, 2024
Check out our full post for TOTALLY GEEKED on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Angie – ☆☆☆☆
I instantly loved Arlo. I hated how his brothers acted like he couldn't do anything on his own. Was he accident prone? Sure, but he didn't need to be watched like they did in my opinion.
Harry was a former player who wanted to find love and deleted all his dating apps. His BFF, Gordy, Arlo's brother, didn't think he'd change his player ways and, of course, warned him off both of his brothers. Brothers who no one believed were real until this book.
I loved how Harry was so kind and gentle with Arlo about his anxiety reading his book in front of others. Harry sitting in that audience with the kids just melted my heart. Every. Damn. Time. I wish we could have seen the drawings Arlo did – they sounded amazing. And the whole time I was reading the book I was thinking about this page I follow on TikTok, thesavbananas. check them out, they are hilarious!
This was a sweet, low angst (only angst was Arlo's brother not knowing about the relationship and then being told in an odd way), opposites attract book. Fast, easy, light read.
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
Harrison is known as the team’s playboy. He sleeps around and is never looking for anything serious and that's okay with him… until recently. He has started wanting more. A relationship and not just a hookup. When his best friend's (Gordon) brother, Arlo, shows up to a party and feels out of place, Harrison spends the evening talking to him about his book and life. Quickly the night passes and Harrison realizes what a good evening he's had. BUT nothing can happen between them. Gordon has warned Harrison to stay away from his brother and told Arlo to stay away from Harrison. Harrison doesn't try to go after Arlo, but he promises to be there for him when he has to do a reading of his book. Slowly their friendship develops into so much more.
Arlo is Gordon's shy nerdy brother. He's an author and wrote a children's book about Gordon and the rest of the Banana Ball teams. When he has to read in front of people, he's terrified but Harrison steps in to help him and calm him down. Arlo can't be nervous with Harrison sitting with the kids, grinning at him. Gordon can warn him away all he wants but Arlo falls for Harrison hard. He's the first person that sees Arlo for who he is and not how nerdy and clumsy he can be. Can they make Gordon see what they have is real?
I loved this second installment of this series. Banana Ball is amazing to watch in real life and to get a series based on it is even better. Harrison and Arlo were perfect for each other. Their chemistry was explosive and so sweet. Harrison wanted to protect Arlo but not hold him back from living like his brothers do.
I can't wait to see what's next for this team!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
June 27, 2024
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Terrible. It's a shame, but this book just wasn't for me, and I admit that I skimmed through the last chapters just to finish the story once and for all.
On the one hand, I like the author's agile and light pace. Her prose is simple and unpretentious. It may not be memorable, but it makes for a smooth read, and sometimes you need a book just like that.
But the story, no matter how simple the style, needs to have some coherence and strength for it to work (imo).
In this case, the MCs are Harrison and Arlo. Harrison plays Banana Ball and is Duckie and Ian's roommate (the first book's MCs), while Arlo is a children's book writer whose brother happens to be Harrison's teammate and best friend.
Arlo and Harrison couldn't be more different: one is an athlete, a playboy, and very sociable while the other is clumsy, quite awkward, not very good at social interactions, and a newbbe in everything love related.
And it's precisely Arlo's clumsiness and his condition as Gordon's younger brother (Harrison's best friend) that brings our MCs together. Arlo's first book has just been published, and since he has a broken arm from a silly fall, he needs his brothers' help to attend a reading on his promotional tour… the problem? Both of them end up drunk the day before, and it ends up being Harrison who accompanies him.
The relationship between the two should be cute and sweet, I understand that was the intention… To me, it was flat and boring. There is no development. They meet at the party, Harrison accompanies him, and suddenly they are both crazy about each other. Arlo can't imagine that someone as attractive as Harry would notice him, and Gordon has already warned them to stay away from each other… But before you know it, these two are together and deep into each other.
Their voices are as flat as their romance. Especially Arlo's has been quite inconsistent. One moment he is a shy and clumsy little lamb, and suddenly he turns into a lion. Sometimes it was hard to remember who was narrating because Arlo changed from being awkward to very confident, and this took me out of the story a lot.
The whole issue with Gordon and his overprotection (aggravated by Arlo's clumsiness), was equally insubstantial. It adds nothing more than the drama you know is coming. All very predictable, which wouldn't have bothered me if it had been compensated by some other element, but with everything being so dull in this story… it didn't help either.
It's a shame. It's true that the previous books didn't seem unforgettable to me either, but I did find them entertaining and fun to read. I don't know if I'll try the next book (which I assume will be about Ryan, although I'm not sure if it's confirmed yet). Maybe it was just the story the author had in mind for these two that simply didn't work for me. So maybe I'll give the third one a chance when it comes out, but with the clear idea that if I see this trend continuing, I'll be done with this series.
Terrible. It's a shame, but this book just wasn't for me, and I admit that I skimmed through the last chapters just to finish the story once and for all.
On the one hand, I like the author's agile and light pace. Her prose is simple and unpretentious. It may not be memorable, but it makes for a smooth read, and sometimes you need a book just like that.
But the story, no matter how simple the style, needs to have some coherence and strength for it to work (imo).
In this case, the MCs are Harrison and Arlo. Harrison plays Banana Ball and is Duckie and Ian's roommate (the first book's MCs), while Arlo is a children's book writer whose brother happens to be Harrison's teammate and best friend.
Arlo and Harrison couldn't be more different: one is an athlete, a playboy, and very sociable while the other is clumsy, quite awkward, not very good at social interactions, and a newbbe in everything love related.
And it's precisely Arlo's clumsiness and his condition as Gordon's younger brother (Harrison's best friend) that brings our MCs together. Arlo's first book has just been published, and since he has a broken arm from a silly fall, he needs his brothers' help to attend a reading on his promotional tour… the problem? Both of them end up drunk the day before, and it ends up being Harrison who accompanies him.
The relationship between the two should be cute and sweet, I understand that was the intention… To me, it was flat and boring. There is no development. They meet at the party, Harrison accompanies him, and suddenly they are both crazy about each other. Arlo can't imagine that someone as attractive as Harry would notice him, and Gordon has already warned them to stay away from each other… But before you know it, these two are together and deep into each other.
Their voices are as flat as their romance. Especially Arlo's has been quite inconsistent. One moment he is a shy and clumsy little lamb, and suddenly he turns into a lion. Sometimes it was hard to remember who was narrating because Arlo changed from being awkward to very confident, and this took me out of the story a lot.
The whole issue with Gordon and his overprotection (aggravated by Arlo's clumsiness), was equally insubstantial. It adds nothing more than the drama you know is coming. All very predictable, which wouldn't have bothered me if it had been compensated by some other element, but with everything being so dull in this story… it didn't help either.
It's a shame. It's true that the previous books didn't seem unforgettable to me either, but I did find them entertaining and fun to read. I don't know if I'll try the next book (which I assume will be about Ryan, although I'm not sure if it's confirmed yet). Maybe it was just the story the author had in mind for these two that simply didn't work for me. So maybe I'll give the third one a chance when it comes out, but with the clear idea that if I see this trend continuing, I'll be done with this series.
May 30, 2024
Format: 📱 eBook 📱
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
This was a cute, enjoyable read from Jackson, which tells the story of newly reformed Banana Ball playboy, Harrison, falling for his teammates brother - the adorkable children's author (and artist), Arlo.
It was a sweet read, which introduced me to a new sport - seriously, I thought to begin with Banana Ball was a made up sport, but I've been educated (and if you have no idea, think of what the Globetrotters are to basketball, and transpose that to baseball) - and an eclectic mix of characters. Having jumped into the second book of the series, I feel I may have missed some explanations and set up, but that didn't hinder my ability to follow the story.
This was definitely a fun, forbidden romance, opposites attract romance that just hits all the right spots as it's so ridiculously sweet, filled with low angst, relatively low drama, and honestly a ridiculous reformed playboy, once you read his antics.
So why a lower rating? Whilst it was enjoyable at a surface level, the more I think about it, the more niggling issues I have with this. Now these are purely my own opinions, so don't let that deter you from reading and casting your own judgement(s). I struggled a lot seeing any development of character from both Arlo and Harrison, other than the development of their relationship. Harrison is written to be this one-night stand playboy, who decides he wants something meaningful. Then a few days later, he's set his sights on Arlo, and that's it. We don't really see any struggles in him giving up the dating apps, or pushing back advances from anyone. Everything is all so sudden and perfectly set up. Arlo does have some mild development - he definitely gets over his fear of reading his books out loud, but that's about it. He's still considered extremely clumsy - a characteristic that I actually found near impossible to believe for the level the author made it out to be.
There's also the reaction of Gordon. I always feel that siblings of the love interest blow things way out of proportion when relationships are revealed, and this is definitely the case in this book. And the way Harrison and Arlo go about making Gordon accept their relationship was just kind of... weird. Coming up with a plot to act on Arlo's clumsiness was just.. yeah. I really struggled to believe it, personally. I also really struggled to connect to any of the characters.
If you want a fun, low angst read, with a very predictable storyline that fills the "cozy book" mould, then this one is for you. It's a good read to break up the more intense books that I've been reading lately.
I received and eARC from GRR in return for an honest review.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
This was a cute, enjoyable read from Jackson, which tells the story of newly reformed Banana Ball playboy, Harrison, falling for his teammates brother - the adorkable children's author (and artist), Arlo.
It was a sweet read, which introduced me to a new sport - seriously, I thought to begin with Banana Ball was a made up sport, but I've been educated (and if you have no idea, think of what the Globetrotters are to basketball, and transpose that to baseball) - and an eclectic mix of characters. Having jumped into the second book of the series, I feel I may have missed some explanations and set up, but that didn't hinder my ability to follow the story.
This was definitely a fun, forbidden romance, opposites attract romance that just hits all the right spots as it's so ridiculously sweet, filled with low angst, relatively low drama, and honestly a ridiculous reformed playboy, once you read his antics.
So why a lower rating? Whilst it was enjoyable at a surface level, the more I think about it, the more niggling issues I have with this. Now these are purely my own opinions, so don't let that deter you from reading and casting your own judgement(s). I struggled a lot seeing any development of character from both Arlo and Harrison, other than the development of their relationship. Harrison is written to be this one-night stand playboy, who decides he wants something meaningful. Then a few days later, he's set his sights on Arlo, and that's it. We don't really see any struggles in him giving up the dating apps, or pushing back advances from anyone. Everything is all so sudden and perfectly set up. Arlo does have some mild development - he definitely gets over his fear of reading his books out loud, but that's about it. He's still considered extremely clumsy - a characteristic that I actually found near impossible to believe for the level the author made it out to be.
There's also the reaction of Gordon. I always feel that siblings of the love interest blow things way out of proportion when relationships are revealed, and this is definitely the case in this book. And the way Harrison and Arlo go about making Gordon accept their relationship was just kind of... weird. Coming up with a plot to act on Arlo's clumsiness was just.. yeah. I really struggled to believe it, personally. I also really struggled to connect to any of the characters.
If you want a fun, low angst read, with a very predictable storyline that fills the "cozy book" mould, then this one is for you. It's a good read to break up the more intense books that I've been reading lately.
I received and eARC from GRR in return for an honest review.
June 12, 2024
old post repsoted
Apparently, I SUCK at reading books that came out within the last 6 months, but I can read books that came out within the last 6 hours. Here's Becca Jackson's "Totally Geeked." It's the second book in her Love in Play series.
My best friend isn't sold on the brother's-best-friend romance trope, but I gotta say, it's in my top three tropes/cliches of all time. :D "'If you want my input,' I say up to the sky as if I'm talking to the universe itself. 'Arlo is exactly the kind of guy I need.' If only he wasn't my best friend's brother."
["Harrison’s love life is a parade of fun, flirty encounters thanks to every dating app you can imagine, but nothing sticks. Finally, sick of the endless cycle of Friday night hookups, he hits uninstall on the apps and challenges the universe to show him that he deserves someone better.
What he didn’t expect was the universe throwing him a curveball in the form of his best friend’s younger brother. Despite being best friends with Gordon for years, he’s never actually met his siblings and even half-joked they didn’t exist.
But there they are, at a party at Gordon’s place, and one brother, Arlo, is seriously hard to ignore. He’s nothing like Gordon. Quiet, adorable, and totally off-limits… which sucks. But when Harrison spots an opportunity to help him steady his nerves on his children’s book tour, he jumps at the chance to get to know him better, because spending time with him feels like the most right thing he’s done in forever.
The more time they spend together, the less Harrison can imagine being with anyone else. But going after what he wants means betraying his best friend. Can he find the courage to catch life’s most unexpected of pitches?"]
Gotta be honest here, I KNOW Harrison was probably highlighted a lot in "Totally Ducked," but I can't quite place him in my memory, which is really fucking sad, because I'm obsessed with him! D: His sweetness, his excitement, his pet names, his teasing, his banter, his talking to the universe, his protectiveness of Arlo, his Arlo. D: God, I can't!!
And Arlo fucking DESERVED all the perfect that is Harrison. Being all cute and shy and nerdy and adorable and clumsy and coming out of his shelf (because of Harrison) and getting more confident (because of Harrison) and learning to love himself (because of Harrison) and genuinely living his dream (because of himself).
#totallyblitzed #totallyducked #totallygeeked #totallyopposed #loveinplay #loveinplaysseries #beccajackson #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Apparently, I SUCK at reading books that came out within the last 6 months, but I can read books that came out within the last 6 hours. Here's Becca Jackson's "Totally Geeked." It's the second book in her Love in Play series.
My best friend isn't sold on the brother's-best-friend romance trope, but I gotta say, it's in my top three tropes/cliches of all time. :D "'If you want my input,' I say up to the sky as if I'm talking to the universe itself. 'Arlo is exactly the kind of guy I need.' If only he wasn't my best friend's brother."
["Harrison’s love life is a parade of fun, flirty encounters thanks to every dating app you can imagine, but nothing sticks. Finally, sick of the endless cycle of Friday night hookups, he hits uninstall on the apps and challenges the universe to show him that he deserves someone better.
What he didn’t expect was the universe throwing him a curveball in the form of his best friend’s younger brother. Despite being best friends with Gordon for years, he’s never actually met his siblings and even half-joked they didn’t exist.
But there they are, at a party at Gordon’s place, and one brother, Arlo, is seriously hard to ignore. He’s nothing like Gordon. Quiet, adorable, and totally off-limits… which sucks. But when Harrison spots an opportunity to help him steady his nerves on his children’s book tour, he jumps at the chance to get to know him better, because spending time with him feels like the most right thing he’s done in forever.
The more time they spend together, the less Harrison can imagine being with anyone else. But going after what he wants means betraying his best friend. Can he find the courage to catch life’s most unexpected of pitches?"]
Gotta be honest here, I KNOW Harrison was probably highlighted a lot in "Totally Ducked," but I can't quite place him in my memory, which is really fucking sad, because I'm obsessed with him! D: His sweetness, his excitement, his pet names, his teasing, his banter, his talking to the universe, his protectiveness of Arlo, his Arlo. D: God, I can't!!
And Arlo fucking DESERVED all the perfect that is Harrison. Being all cute and shy and nerdy and adorable and clumsy and coming out of his shelf (because of Harrison) and getting more confident (because of Harrison) and learning to love himself (because of Harrison) and genuinely living his dream (because of himself).
#totallyblitzed #totallyducked #totallygeeked #totallyopposed #loveinplay #loveinplaysseries #beccajackson #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
May 19, 2024
Totally Geeked follows Arlo, a shy, clumsy children's book author, and Harrison, a banana ball player who's looking for a relationship after years of hook-ups. The biggest impediment? Harrison's best friend is Arlo's protective older brother.
What worked for me:
-Rare to find a book about a sport as niche as Banana Ball!
-The details about Arlo's drawings were great
-Harrison going to Arlo's readings to support him was cute and a good way to build the relationship
-love a good opposites attract & forbidden romance set-up
What worked less for me:
(I think for this one, a lot of this section is very individually my take, so take with a grain of salt)
-Arlo's main character traits are that he's clumsy and shy. In general I struggle with these as character traits - people tend to not see 'clumsy' as an identifier but rather as a momentary thing, i.e. when you drop something and then go "I'm so clumsy". No one I know goes through life thinking of themselves as just generally clumsy. It's heavily implied that Arlo's clumsiness has to do with his lack of self-confidence and the way his brother Gordon overprotects him, but it's not something he ever becomes explicitly aware of and he still sees himself as clumsy by the very end, making it not something you could read deeper meaning into.
-On that note, character development was a little lacking for me. At the beginning of the book, Harrison decides to give up on hook-ups and start looking for love, something he and the other characters view as a huge change for him - but he never struggles with it and just immediately finds someone to love. Arlo, as said, starts the book viewing himself as the clumsy, less attractive brother, and that just kind of never changes. When he and Harry get together, it's like a switch flips in their sex scenes where he's suddenly very confident and sexy, but it's not something either of them really remarks on as being out of character. The plot is all very external, there's little to no internal development for the characters.
-The external plot is pretty much just Arlo and Harry getting together and then Gordon finding out. There's some stuff in there about Arlo's book tour and him getting more confident at readings, but it's never really tied into his own self-image as geeky and clumsy, or tied into the stuff about Gordon needing to view him as an adult.
In essence: a light, low-stakes, fluffy read. If that's what you're after, give this a shot.
I received a free ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
What worked for me:
-Rare to find a book about a sport as niche as Banana Ball!
-The details about Arlo's drawings were great
-Harrison going to Arlo's readings to support him was cute and a good way to build the relationship
-love a good opposites attract & forbidden romance set-up
What worked less for me:
(I think for this one, a lot of this section is very individually my take, so take with a grain of salt)
-Arlo's main character traits are that he's clumsy and shy. In general I struggle with these as character traits - people tend to not see 'clumsy' as an identifier but rather as a momentary thing, i.e. when you drop something and then go "I'm so clumsy". No one I know goes through life thinking of themselves as just generally clumsy. It's heavily implied that Arlo's clumsiness has to do with his lack of self-confidence and the way his brother Gordon overprotects him, but it's not something he ever becomes explicitly aware of and he still sees himself as clumsy by the very end, making it not something you could read deeper meaning into.
-On that note, character development was a little lacking for me. At the beginning of the book, Harrison decides to give up on hook-ups and start looking for love, something he and the other characters view as a huge change for him - but he never struggles with it and just immediately finds someone to love. Arlo, as said, starts the book viewing himself as the clumsy, less attractive brother, and that just kind of never changes. When he and Harry get together, it's like a switch flips in their sex scenes where he's suddenly very confident and sexy, but it's not something either of them really remarks on as being out of character. The plot is all very external, there's little to no internal development for the characters.
-The external plot is pretty much just Arlo and Harry getting together and then Gordon finding out. There's some stuff in there about Arlo's book tour and him getting more confident at readings, but it's never really tied into his own self-image as geeky and clumsy, or tied into the stuff about Gordon needing to view him as an adult.
In essence: a light, low-stakes, fluffy read. If that's what you're after, give this a shot.
I received a free ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
May 31, 2024
"Can confidence be a sexually transmitted disease? If it is, I don't ever want to be cured because this feels amazing."
Who knew that Harrison would be the cinnamon roll out of this crazy group, I sure didn't. Maybe all it took was the right man to do it. Being his best friends little brother was not in the plans either but one encounter is all it takes.
I really loved this one. I was curious about Harrison in Duckie & Ian's book.
Wanting to stop with random hook ups and find something meaningful, Harrison deletes it all along with contacts from past hook ups so that he can start fresh. We wont talk about what prompts this but that's one way to start a book 😏
Arlo is handled with kid gloves by his big brother, he doesn't want to see him as the adult he is but unfortunately for him once he laid eyes on the catcher for the banana ball team it was a wrap except he only admired from afar because who would want someone like him especially someone who looks like he does.
This was a good light hearted read with some great humor, of course that spice is in there and all the added stuff that goes hand in hand with it.
Arlo & Harrison are the cutest, like too sweet hurt your teeth type of cute. They both have things that they have to deal with, Harrison shedding his Casanova past and Arlo with getting out from under his brothers too watchful eye.
Harrison makes Arlo better, he makes him more confident in himself and that is the best part of their story. The shy, nerdy children's book writer never expected Harrison to take an interest in him but in the end it comes down to a "you'll never know if you don't try" situation and it works out.
Gordon you twat! okay I feel better..
I really wanted to hate Gordon because of how he acted, I get it but still it wasn't okay. We have consenting adults here and he really didn't have a say he was just throwing a tantrum.
He did redeem himself and explained but still, the sour taste is there.
Becca has a great way that sucks you into her books. There is the light heartedness but also teeny bits of tension and all the spice to go along with it, which this one has scenes that are 🤌
Seriously you would not be disappointed if you picked this one up.. but read Totally Ducked first 😉
Who knew that Harrison would be the cinnamon roll out of this crazy group, I sure didn't. Maybe all it took was the right man to do it. Being his best friends little brother was not in the plans either but one encounter is all it takes.
I really loved this one. I was curious about Harrison in Duckie & Ian's book.
Wanting to stop with random hook ups and find something meaningful, Harrison deletes it all along with contacts from past hook ups so that he can start fresh. We wont talk about what prompts this but that's one way to start a book 😏
Arlo is handled with kid gloves by his big brother, he doesn't want to see him as the adult he is but unfortunately for him once he laid eyes on the catcher for the banana ball team it was a wrap except he only admired from afar because who would want someone like him especially someone who looks like he does.
This was a good light hearted read with some great humor, of course that spice is in there and all the added stuff that goes hand in hand with it.
Arlo & Harrison are the cutest, like too sweet hurt your teeth type of cute. They both have things that they have to deal with, Harrison shedding his Casanova past and Arlo with getting out from under his brothers too watchful eye.
Harrison makes Arlo better, he makes him more confident in himself and that is the best part of their story. The shy, nerdy children's book writer never expected Harrison to take an interest in him but in the end it comes down to a "you'll never know if you don't try" situation and it works out.
Gordon you twat! okay I feel better..
I really wanted to hate Gordon because of how he acted, I get it but still it wasn't okay. We have consenting adults here and he really didn't have a say he was just throwing a tantrum.
He did redeem himself and explained but still, the sour taste is there.
Becca has a great way that sucks you into her books. There is the light heartedness but also teeny bits of tension and all the spice to go along with it, which this one has scenes that are 🤌
Seriously you would not be disappointed if you picked this one up.. but read Totally Ducked first 😉
May 28, 2024
I'm giving this one almost 3.5 stars. I really wanted to love it, but I struggled to connect to the characters as much as I would have liked.
Let me start by saying that I did not read the first book in the series. I don't think it was necessary to read that one first though, because Ian and Duckie were barely in this one at all. However, maybe reading the first book would have helped me better understand what banana ball is. This story centered around Harry, Gordon, and Arlo.
Harry and Gordon are teammates and best friends. I didn't really think their friendship was as close as best friends though. Gordon didn't seem to actually like Harry all that much and certainly didn't want him around his brothers, especially Arlo. Harry seemed like a nice guy overall, but was supposed to be a bit of a reformed playboy. It was said at one point that the men he'd slept with numbered in the thousands. There was a lot of his supposed friends, especially Gordon, playfully shaming Harry for the number of men he slept with, like he couldn't talk to someone without trying to get in their pants.
Given their age, Harry and Gordon seemed to be pretty immature. They seemed to be stuck in the frat boy stage of life even though they were far beyond their college years (Gordon more so than Harry). I didn't really care for Gordon at all. He was over the top protective and domineering with his brothers, but couldn't really be bothered to reliably help them, especially Arlo. He was a big partier and seemed pretty self-centered. He was also a hypocrite. I didn't feel like he was taken to task nearly enough for his behavior.
I loved Arlo, he was my favorite character in the book. He is very likeable and cute. He writes children's books based on his brother's banana ball team and seems to be very talented. I thought he let his brothers get away with too much, though.
Overall, the plot was predictable and the writing was a bit over the top. It all played out the way that I figured it would, and I read the book pretty quickly. I don't know that I will continue with this series, but it was a good read for a lazy day.
Let me start by saying that I did not read the first book in the series. I don't think it was necessary to read that one first though, because Ian and Duckie were barely in this one at all. However, maybe reading the first book would have helped me better understand what banana ball is. This story centered around Harry, Gordon, and Arlo.
Harry and Gordon are teammates and best friends. I didn't really think their friendship was as close as best friends though. Gordon didn't seem to actually like Harry all that much and certainly didn't want him around his brothers, especially Arlo. Harry seemed like a nice guy overall, but was supposed to be a bit of a reformed playboy. It was said at one point that the men he'd slept with numbered in the thousands. There was a lot of his supposed friends, especially Gordon, playfully shaming Harry for the number of men he slept with, like he couldn't talk to someone without trying to get in their pants.
Given their age, Harry and Gordon seemed to be pretty immature. They seemed to be stuck in the frat boy stage of life even though they were far beyond their college years (Gordon more so than Harry). I didn't really care for Gordon at all. He was over the top protective and domineering with his brothers, but couldn't really be bothered to reliably help them, especially Arlo. He was a big partier and seemed pretty self-centered. He was also a hypocrite. I didn't feel like he was taken to task nearly enough for his behavior.
I loved Arlo, he was my favorite character in the book. He is very likeable and cute. He writes children's books based on his brother's banana ball team and seems to be very talented. I thought he let his brothers get away with too much, though.
Overall, the plot was predictable and the writing was a bit over the top. It all played out the way that I figured it would, and I read the book pretty quickly. I don't know that I will continue with this series, but it was a good read for a lazy day.
May 13, 2024
********** Contains Spoilers**********
I enjoyed this book and I thought that it was a good addition to the Love in Play Series. This is an opposites attract, nerd vs jock romance with best friend’s brother. I thought Harrison and Arlo were great together and their chemistry was off the charts. Harrison is sick of hookups and wants to find something more meaningful. He never would’ve guessed that the something more meaningful would be his best friend Gordon’s younger brother Arlo. Gordon is extremely protective of his brothers and especially warned Harrison to stay away from them. I can kind of understand why Gordon is overprotective as they’re the only family they have left and Arlo is very accident prone so Gordon believes that he can’t really look after himself.
Arlo’s also a bit naive, as his last boyfriend who happened to be his agent used him until he got his commission cheque but he does treat Arlo like a bit of a little kid that can’t make his own decisions. Harrison and Arlo’s attraction couldn’t be denied for long, of course things changed between them in a hotel room with only one bed lol. I enjoyed seeing Arlo’s confidence grow throughout this book and I also really enjoyed getting more snippets of Duckie. Hmm How will Gordon take finding out about Arlo and Harrison being together? I’ve already pre-ordered the next book, Totally Opposed and I’m looking forward to reading It when it’s released in October. It’s Ryan and Alan’s turn to get their happily ever after. I’d recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I enjoyed this book and I thought that it was a good addition to the Love in Play Series. This is an opposites attract, nerd vs jock romance with best friend’s brother. I thought Harrison and Arlo were great together and their chemistry was off the charts. Harrison is sick of hookups and wants to find something more meaningful. He never would’ve guessed that the something more meaningful would be his best friend Gordon’s younger brother Arlo. Gordon is extremely protective of his brothers and especially warned Harrison to stay away from them. I can kind of understand why Gordon is overprotective as they’re the only family they have left and Arlo is very accident prone so Gordon believes that he can’t really look after himself.
Arlo’s also a bit naive, as his last boyfriend who happened to be his agent used him until he got his commission cheque but he does treat Arlo like a bit of a little kid that can’t make his own decisions. Harrison and Arlo’s attraction couldn’t be denied for long, of course things changed between them in a hotel room with only one bed lol. I enjoyed seeing Arlo’s confidence grow throughout this book and I also really enjoyed getting more snippets of Duckie. Hmm How will Gordon take finding out about Arlo and Harrison being together? I’ve already pre-ordered the next book, Totally Opposed and I’m looking forward to reading It when it’s released in October. It’s Ryan and Alan’s turn to get their happily ever after. I’d recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
June 9, 2024
TOTALLY GEEKED is the second installment in the Love in Play series.
Harrison is known as the teams playboy. He sleeps around and never looking for anything series and that's okay with him until recently. He has started wanting more. A relationship and not just a hookup. When his best friend's (Gordon) brother, Arlo shows up to a party and feels out of place Harrison spends the evening talking to him about his book and life. Quickly the night passes and Harrison realizes what a good evening he's had. BUT nothing can happen between them. Gordon has warned Harrison to stay away from his brother and told Arlo to stay away from the Harrison. Harrison doesn't try to go after Arlo but he promises to be there for him when he has to do a reading of his book. Slowly their friendship develops to so much more.
Arlo is Gordon's shy nerdy brother. He's an author and wrote a children's book about Gordon and the rest of the Banana ball teams. When he has to read in front of people he's terrified but Harrison steps in to help him and calm him down. Arlo can't be nervous with Harrison sitting with the kids grinning at him. Gordon can warn him away all he wants but Arlo falls for Harrison hard. He's the first person that sees Arlo for who he is and not how nerdy and clumsy he can be. Can they make Gordon see what they have is real?
I loved this second installment of this series. Banana ball is amazing to watch IRL and to get a series based on it is even better. Harrison and Arlo were perfect for each other. Their chemistry was explosive and so sweet. Harrison wanted to protect Arlo but not hold him back from living like his brothers do.
I can't wait to see what's next for this team!
I was given a free copy of this book.
Harrison is known as the teams playboy. He sleeps around and never looking for anything series and that's okay with him until recently. He has started wanting more. A relationship and not just a hookup. When his best friend's (Gordon) brother, Arlo shows up to a party and feels out of place Harrison spends the evening talking to him about his book and life. Quickly the night passes and Harrison realizes what a good evening he's had. BUT nothing can happen between them. Gordon has warned Harrison to stay away from his brother and told Arlo to stay away from the Harrison. Harrison doesn't try to go after Arlo but he promises to be there for him when he has to do a reading of his book. Slowly their friendship develops to so much more.
Arlo is Gordon's shy nerdy brother. He's an author and wrote a children's book about Gordon and the rest of the Banana ball teams. When he has to read in front of people he's terrified but Harrison steps in to help him and calm him down. Arlo can't be nervous with Harrison sitting with the kids grinning at him. Gordon can warn him away all he wants but Arlo falls for Harrison hard. He's the first person that sees Arlo for who he is and not how nerdy and clumsy he can be. Can they make Gordon see what they have is real?
I loved this second installment of this series. Banana ball is amazing to watch IRL and to get a series based on it is even better. Harrison and Arlo were perfect for each other. Their chemistry was explosive and so sweet. Harrison wanted to protect Arlo but not hold him back from living like his brothers do.
I can't wait to see what's next for this team!
I was given a free copy of this book.
May 21, 2024
Arlo comes across as a sweet, geeky, and shy children’s book author who is convinced nobody will want him because he just isn’t good enough. He’s a little clumsy, but in reality he is full of wonderful traits like being kind, smart, and talented. He just needs to be allowed to live his life out from under his big brother Gordon.
Harrison is done with his playboy ways, knowing the revolving door of hookups that are often unfulfilling needs to stop. Throwing away the hookup apps and deleting all the hot guy contacts, he decides he deserves someone good, someone wonderful. His best friend Gordon doesn’t believe that he is changing his ways but supports him regardless
The problem is they find themselves attracted to each other. How is that going to work out?
OPINION: This is a nice story. I knew what Banana Ball was, so I understood the story. I really liked Arlo and Harrison they both were good guys and seemed to be genuine. These two are instantly attracted to each other, and their relationship moves quite quickly, everything happening in a few weeks. The stories about the game are fun, and I feel like you get a feel for what it was about. The details and description of Arlo’s artwork are great; you really understood what he was drawing and how it looked. In fact, the details of a lot of things, like the cast, the houses, and Harrison at the book signings, were all wonderful. This is very low angst and an easy read.
SPICE: The story has some great spicy scenes, particularly towards the end. These scenes reveal a hidden, passionate side of the seemingly innocent Arlo.
Harrison is done with his playboy ways, knowing the revolving door of hookups that are often unfulfilling needs to stop. Throwing away the hookup apps and deleting all the hot guy contacts, he decides he deserves someone good, someone wonderful. His best friend Gordon doesn’t believe that he is changing his ways but supports him regardless
The problem is they find themselves attracted to each other. How is that going to work out?
OPINION: This is a nice story. I knew what Banana Ball was, so I understood the story. I really liked Arlo and Harrison they both were good guys and seemed to be genuine. These two are instantly attracted to each other, and their relationship moves quite quickly, everything happening in a few weeks. The stories about the game are fun, and I feel like you get a feel for what it was about. The details and description of Arlo’s artwork are great; you really understood what he was drawing and how it looked. In fact, the details of a lot of things, like the cast, the houses, and Harrison at the book signings, were all wonderful. This is very low angst and an easy read.
SPICE: The story has some great spicy scenes, particularly towards the end. These scenes reveal a hidden, passionate side of the seemingly innocent Arlo.
June 2, 2024
I was totally looking forward to another read from the banana ball universe from Becca Jackson This is book 2 in the Love at Play series and follows Harrison and Arlo. I think it can be a standalone read as the characters from book 1 only make brief appearances in this book.
This was a low angst read for me with the best friend’s brother storyline for the MCs. Harrison is tired of the hookup encounters he’s been having and deleted all his apps and hoping the universe brings him someone who wants more in life. His best friend and teammate’s younger brother Arlo seems like he just might be that person but both are worried that their connection might interfere with their relationships with Gordon who is super protective of Arlo. Gordon knows too much of Harrison’s past and still fears that he is not the type of person to commit to someone and can’t seem to get past that Arlo isn’t a little kid anymore who he needs to keep an eye on.
I loved how Harrison’s support of Arlo helped him to take his creativity to new levels. Arlo is the middle of three brothers and with the youngest off at school and Gordon dealing with being on the team and building a new business, having Harrison be supportive while Arlo is breaking into new territory in his career was just what he needed to keep moving forward and finally show Gordon that he appreciates his love over the years but it’s time to let go a little.
This series has been such a fun one to read with some interesting and laid back characters. I’m looking forward to Ryan and Alan’s story as it seems like Duckie and Ian’s apartment is the lucky apartment for love!!
This was a low angst read for me with the best friend’s brother storyline for the MCs. Harrison is tired of the hookup encounters he’s been having and deleted all his apps and hoping the universe brings him someone who wants more in life. His best friend and teammate’s younger brother Arlo seems like he just might be that person but both are worried that their connection might interfere with their relationships with Gordon who is super protective of Arlo. Gordon knows too much of Harrison’s past and still fears that he is not the type of person to commit to someone and can’t seem to get past that Arlo isn’t a little kid anymore who he needs to keep an eye on.
I loved how Harrison’s support of Arlo helped him to take his creativity to new levels. Arlo is the middle of three brothers and with the youngest off at school and Gordon dealing with being on the team and building a new business, having Harrison be supportive while Arlo is breaking into new territory in his career was just what he needed to keep moving forward and finally show Gordon that he appreciates his love over the years but it’s time to let go a little.
This series has been such a fun one to read with some interesting and laid back characters. I’m looking forward to Ryan and Alan’s story as it seems like Duckie and Ian’s apartment is the lucky apartment for love!!
May 30, 2024
Totally Geeked was adorable! As I read, I couldn't help but smile because of how cute Harrison (Harry) and Arlo were together.
Arlo, a shy guy, is a writer and illustrator of a children's book about the Banana Ball (baseball) team his older brother plays on. I loved his personality—not just his awkwardness but also his sweetness and determination. Despite his fears, he stood up for himself, with a little help.
Harrison (Harry) is part of a Banana Ball baseball team. He’s tired of meaningless one-night stands and yearns for a serious relationship. He asks fate to send him someone special, and fate delivers.
This story is a quick, light read that will give you plenty of laughs. Harrison and Arlo are the perfect friends-to-lovers duo, supporting each other and striving for more. The playful banter among the Banana Ball boys keeps the story engaging. Arlo is a shy, sweeter version of his older brother, Gordon. When Harrison decides to leave the dating app lifestyle in search of something more meaningful, he never expects to find it with his best friend’s brother—but that's how life works sometimes. Their sweet banter translates into hot chemistry in the bedroom.
Harrison helps Arlo become more confident in sharing his art with the world, which also helps young fans fall more in love with Banana Ball. Their other brother, Noah, provides support when Gordon needs a wake-up call to realise how deep Harrison and Arlo's relationship really is.
Overall, this is a fun story, and I’m looking forward to Ryan and Alan’s story next in this universe.
Arlo, a shy guy, is a writer and illustrator of a children's book about the Banana Ball (baseball) team his older brother plays on. I loved his personality—not just his awkwardness but also his sweetness and determination. Despite his fears, he stood up for himself, with a little help.
Harrison (Harry) is part of a Banana Ball baseball team. He’s tired of meaningless one-night stands and yearns for a serious relationship. He asks fate to send him someone special, and fate delivers.
This story is a quick, light read that will give you plenty of laughs. Harrison and Arlo are the perfect friends-to-lovers duo, supporting each other and striving for more. The playful banter among the Banana Ball boys keeps the story engaging. Arlo is a shy, sweeter version of his older brother, Gordon. When Harrison decides to leave the dating app lifestyle in search of something more meaningful, he never expects to find it with his best friend’s brother—but that's how life works sometimes. Their sweet banter translates into hot chemistry in the bedroom.
Harrison helps Arlo become more confident in sharing his art with the world, which also helps young fans fall more in love with Banana Ball. Their other brother, Noah, provides support when Gordon needs a wake-up call to realise how deep Harrison and Arlo's relationship really is.
Overall, this is a fun story, and I’m looking forward to Ryan and Alan’s story next in this universe.
June 1, 2024
Welcome back to a new season of Banana Ball!
This book we have Harrison, our adorably persistent man flirt from Duckie and Ian's story, finally ready for more than his previous one and done ways. However, it turns out hookup apps are not the place to find an actual boyfriend, so Harrison deletes them all and instructs the universe to send him the perfect guy. Little does he know, his perfect man is his best friend's little brother!
Arlo has had better months. His arm is broken, his brothers won't let him live alone while he heals because of one tiny little incident that landed him back in the hospital, and while he's psyched his debut children's book is about to be released, he is terrified of having to do the readings that have been set up for him. While at a party at his brother Gordon's house, he strikes up a conversation about the book with Harrison, and realizes there's more to his brother's best friend than the godlike looks and flirty charm...even if his brother can't see it and has already warned him off of Harrison.
I will say that I am enchanted by the concept of Banana ball romance, as I (like everyone) really love the Savanna Bananas on social media! Harrison is absolutely adorable, and I loved Arlo growing into a more confident man as Harrison helped him see how awesome he is. The two are totally cute and hot together. If you like sweet and steamy, these two are definitely for you!
CW: death of parents (before books), injury discussion, sexual content
This book we have Harrison, our adorably persistent man flirt from Duckie and Ian's story, finally ready for more than his previous one and done ways. However, it turns out hookup apps are not the place to find an actual boyfriend, so Harrison deletes them all and instructs the universe to send him the perfect guy. Little does he know, his perfect man is his best friend's little brother!
Arlo has had better months. His arm is broken, his brothers won't let him live alone while he heals because of one tiny little incident that landed him back in the hospital, and while he's psyched his debut children's book is about to be released, he is terrified of having to do the readings that have been set up for him. While at a party at his brother Gordon's house, he strikes up a conversation about the book with Harrison, and realizes there's more to his brother's best friend than the godlike looks and flirty charm...even if his brother can't see it and has already warned him off of Harrison.
I will say that I am enchanted by the concept of Banana ball romance, as I (like everyone) really love the Savanna Bananas on social media! Harrison is absolutely adorable, and I loved Arlo growing into a more confident man as Harrison helped him see how awesome he is. The two are totally cute and hot together. If you like sweet and steamy, these two are definitely for you!
CW: death of parents (before books), injury discussion, sexual content
June 23, 2024
This is book 2 in the Love in Play series and it can be enjoyed as a standalone. This is the story of (Harry) Harrison and Arlo. Harry is a player who keeps having hookups and what he really wants is a relationship. So he finally decides that he deserves more out of life and he deletes all his dating apps. Of course, after he announces to his best friend Gordon and the rest of the team that he is taking a break from dating; he finally meets someone who piques his interest! What makes this even worse, is that his interest is his best friend's little brother. The same little brother that he has been warned off of by Gordon. Arlo is the middle brother and he is shy. His two other brothers are large, outgoing and take up a lot of space. Arlo is used to taking as little as possible and usually being overlooked. Arlo is an artist and an author. He has just had his first book published. While thrilled, he is overwhelmed with the idea of speaking in public and doing book signings. Needing a ride to his first book signing, Harry steps up and helps Arlo make it a success. He focuses on helping his relax and provides his full support. Arlo and Harry become friends. The only problem, Arlo doesn't want to be friend zoned. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I really enjoyed watching their relationship grow. The author is new to me but I now a fan. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a complementary advanced review copy from the author through GRR and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy from the author through GRR and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2024
Harry has been struggling to find the one, although he’ll admit that using an app is probably not the way to go :) Then he meets adorable, artsy Arlo. Unfortunately, Arlo is off-limits as the brother of Harry’s best friend. (I think Gordon might be over-reacting a bit – he admits that Harry is a good person – but he’s had lots of years being the one to watch over his brothers so …) But time spent together has them deciding that their attraction is one that can’t be ignored. Which of course goes the way you think it will and, while I do understand why Gordon might be upset with the way things play out, I can also see why the guys think this is the best way.
There’s not a lot of depth or character growth with Harry and Arlo. It’s a quick read but all sorts of fun. Full of sweetness and deepening feelings as readers are given a peek into their growing emotions and their oh-so-spicy alone time.
I’ve only read one other book by Jackson and, based on these two, I think she’s going on my must read author list. Her characters are interesting and her stories are entertaining & steamy. What’s next, Becca?!?
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
There’s not a lot of depth or character growth with Harry and Arlo. It’s a quick read but all sorts of fun. Full of sweetness and deepening feelings as readers are given a peek into their growing emotions and their oh-so-spicy alone time.
I’ve only read one other book by Jackson and, based on these two, I think she’s going on my must read author list. Her characters are interesting and her stories are entertaining & steamy. What’s next, Becca?!?
**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**
March 25, 2025
I absolutely LOVED the first book in this series totally ducked, so I was excited to read this one especially after I found out that one of the tropes is brothers best friend eekk!
SOME SPOILERS AHEAD BEWARE
"I don't want anyone else," he says, finally stopping pacing and looking at me. "I love you."
Harrison isn't only a player on the field but also off it, however he is tired of all the hook up's and them never leading to where he wants them to. Harrison wants something real and just isn't finding mister right on any of the dating apps so he decides to delete them all and challenges the universe to show him he deserves better than what he's been getting. Enter Harrison's best friends little brother Arlo, who is absolutely nothing like his two out going, loud and people loving brothers. Arlo is an awkward but unbelievably lovable author who has just released his first book which just so happens to be about his older brother and his teammates. Arlo is sent by his publisher to go on a mini book reading/signing tour at libraires for kids but he is unable to drive because of an injury, so when Arlo's brothers are too hung over to take him to his first signing Harrison steps up. Thanks to Arlo's awkwardness he is super nervous to read in front of all the kids and their parents, but Harrison is there sitting on the floor behind all the kids to help Arlo get through it all. After the reading it ends up becoming Harrison's thing to take Arlo to his readings then sit on the floor with the kids as a comfort for Arlo. Along the way they get to know each other more and friends turns to lovers and the rest is history even if Arlo's big bro is less than happy about it...
SOME SPOILERS AHEAD BEWARE
"I don't want anyone else," he says, finally stopping pacing and looking at me. "I love you."
Harrison isn't only a player on the field but also off it, however he is tired of all the hook up's and them never leading to where he wants them to. Harrison wants something real and just isn't finding mister right on any of the dating apps so he decides to delete them all and challenges the universe to show him he deserves better than what he's been getting. Enter Harrison's best friends little brother Arlo, who is absolutely nothing like his two out going, loud and people loving brothers. Arlo is an awkward but unbelievably lovable author who has just released his first book which just so happens to be about his older brother and his teammates. Arlo is sent by his publisher to go on a mini book reading/signing tour at libraires for kids but he is unable to drive because of an injury, so when Arlo's brothers are too hung over to take him to his first signing Harrison steps up. Thanks to Arlo's awkwardness he is super nervous to read in front of all the kids and their parents, but Harrison is there sitting on the floor behind all the kids to help Arlo get through it all. After the reading it ends up becoming Harrison's thing to take Arlo to his readings then sit on the floor with the kids as a comfort for Arlo. Along the way they get to know each other more and friends turns to lovers and the rest is history even if Arlo's big bro is less than happy about it...
May 25, 2024
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I think I loved this even more than book one. Banana Ball is such a great setting for a romance. It’s sporty AND fun!
Harrison is such a fun-loving guy. He’s got boundless energy and is an absolute sweetheart at his core. He’s been unattached and enjoying hookups until recently when he’s started to re-evaluate what he wants.
Arlo is a bit of geek, a lot clumsy, and nervous about the readings he has to do for the children’s book he’s published. Until Harrison that is. Harrison who steps up to be there for Arlo in the most adorable way ever.
Honestly, the building of their friendship was precious, but their shifting to a relationship was all kinds of wonderful. No two guys deserved love more. And I love how they handle Arlo’s brother together.
I think I loved this even more than book one. Banana Ball is such a great setting for a romance. It’s sporty AND fun!
Harrison is such a fun-loving guy. He’s got boundless energy and is an absolute sweetheart at his core. He’s been unattached and enjoying hookups until recently when he’s started to re-evaluate what he wants.
Arlo is a bit of geek, a lot clumsy, and nervous about the readings he has to do for the children’s book he’s published. Until Harrison that is. Harrison who steps up to be there for Arlo in the most adorable way ever.
Honestly, the building of their friendship was precious, but their shifting to a relationship was all kinds of wonderful. No two guys deserved love more. And I love how they handle Arlo’s brother together.
May 31, 2024
Poor Arlo, he was so dang clumsy! Tripped over his own two feet, on a flat surface, in his OWN apartment and broke his wrist and a couple fingers! After that, he breaks his cast, a neighbor finds him unconscious and it’s back to the hospital he goes. And timid, oh my gosh, he can hardly speak to strangers, much less look ‘em in the eye but then, as he gets to know Harrison, his brother’s best friend,
Harrison strengthens him. Gives him the courage to share and read aloud the children’s books he’d written based on his older brother’s Banana Ball baseball team and to express what he wants personally (namely Harrison).
Harrison is tired of one night stands, always alone when it’s over; he wishes he had someone to care about and that will care about him. When his best friend’s little brother, Arlo, comes along and is everything he could’ve asked for, it’s really too bad that his best friend has forbidden him from messing with Arlo… but rules were made to be broken, right?
Such a cute book!
I received a copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Harrison strengthens him. Gives him the courage to share and read aloud the children’s books he’d written based on his older brother’s Banana Ball baseball team and to express what he wants personally (namely Harrison).
Harrison is tired of one night stands, always alone when it’s over; he wishes he had someone to care about and that will care about him. When his best friend’s little brother, Arlo, comes along and is everything he could’ve asked for, it’s really too bad that his best friend has forbidden him from messing with Arlo… but rules were made to be broken, right?
Such a cute book!
I received a copy of this book for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2024
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I instantly loved Arlo. I hated how his brothers acted like he couldn't do anything on his own. Was he accident prone? Sure, but he didn't need to be watched like they did in my opinion. Harry was a former player who wanted to find love and deleted all his dating apps, his BFF, Gordy, Arlo's brother didn't think he'd change his player ways and of course warned him off both of his brothers. Brothers who no one believed were real until this book. I loved how Harry was so kind and gentle with Arlo about his anxiety reading his book infront of others. Harry sitting in that audience with the kids just melted my heart. Every. Damn. Time. I wish we could have seen the drawing Arlo did they sounded amazing. And the whole time I was reading the book I was thinking about this page I follow on Tiktok, thesavbananas. check them out, they are hilarious! This was a sweet, low angst (only angst was Arlo's brother not knowing about the relationship and then being told in an odd way), opposites attract book. Fast, easy, light read.
I instantly loved Arlo. I hated how his brothers acted like he couldn't do anything on his own. Was he accident prone? Sure, but he didn't need to be watched like they did in my opinion. Harry was a former player who wanted to find love and deleted all his dating apps, his BFF, Gordy, Arlo's brother didn't think he'd change his player ways and of course warned him off both of his brothers. Brothers who no one believed were real until this book. I loved how Harry was so kind and gentle with Arlo about his anxiety reading his book infront of others. Harry sitting in that audience with the kids just melted my heart. Every. Damn. Time. I wish we could have seen the drawing Arlo did they sounded amazing. And the whole time I was reading the book I was thinking about this page I follow on Tiktok, thesavbananas. check them out, they are hilarious! This was a sweet, low angst (only angst was Arlo's brother not knowing about the relationship and then being told in an odd way), opposites attract book. Fast, easy, light read.
June 10, 2024
🍌TOTALLY GEEKED by @beccajacksonauthor
“If you want my input, Arlo is exactly the kind of guy I need.”
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🍌 banana ball
🍌 geek/jock
🍌secret relationship
🍌 best friend’s brother
🍌age gap
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🦦Labyrinth’s rating
⭐4.5
💧 1
🔥 3
I had so much fun reading this book. The characters are great, Arlo was so sweet and kinda dorky? I loved him, I want one of him in my life. His and Harry’s relationship was so good and positive and healthy? Are you kidding me? Harry is such a good character, he’s sweet and definitely spicy, and even as a friend he’s great, none of those sportsman macho bullcrap. He and Arlo are truly made to be together. And I kinda want to read Arlo’s children's book (I definitely wasn’t expecting an R-rated version of it, my mind went places!)
I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
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“Can confidence be a sexually transmitted disease? If it is, I don't ever want to be cured because it feels amazing.”
“If you want my input, Arlo is exactly the kind of guy I need.”
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🍌 banana ball
🍌 geek/jock
🍌secret relationship
🍌 best friend’s brother
🍌age gap
————————————
🦦Labyrinth’s rating
⭐4.5
💧 1
🔥 3
I had so much fun reading this book. The characters are great, Arlo was so sweet and kinda dorky? I loved him, I want one of him in my life. His and Harry’s relationship was so good and positive and healthy? Are you kidding me? Harry is such a good character, he’s sweet and definitely spicy, and even as a friend he’s great, none of those sportsman macho bullcrap. He and Arlo are truly made to be together. And I kinda want to read Arlo’s children's book (I definitely wasn’t expecting an R-rated version of it, my mind went places!)
I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
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“Can confidence be a sexually transmitted disease? If it is, I don't ever want to be cured because it feels amazing.”
June 21, 2024
4.25 Stars!
I absolutely adored Arlo, who was a sweetheart. He was shy and sweet at first, but got more confident under Harrison's tutelage. And Harrison was a prince! I loved how he treated Arlo. He might have been a playboy before, but he wholly embraced being with Arlo, since he was just what Harrison had been looking for. It was a bit insta but it totally worked for them. They had amazing chemistry and I just adored them together.
I loved Ducky and Noah, and I'm already looking forward to Ryan and Allan's story. I can't say I loved Gordon, I actually wanted to slap him silly quite a few times, but he did get better in the end.
This was such a sweet book and I really enjoyed losing myself in Arlo and Harrison's story. It was captivating, spicy and sweet, with some light-angst, and I have no trouble recommending it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I absolutely adored Arlo, who was a sweetheart. He was shy and sweet at first, but got more confident under Harrison's tutelage. And Harrison was a prince! I loved how he treated Arlo. He might have been a playboy before, but he wholly embraced being with Arlo, since he was just what Harrison had been looking for. It was a bit insta but it totally worked for them. They had amazing chemistry and I just adored them together.
I loved Ducky and Noah, and I'm already looking forward to Ryan and Allan's story. I can't say I loved Gordon, I actually wanted to slap him silly quite a few times, but he did get better in the end.
This was such a sweet book and I really enjoyed losing myself in Arlo and Harrison's story. It was captivating, spicy and sweet, with some light-angst, and I have no trouble recommending it.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
May 26, 2024
These two are just those beautiful friends to lovers who support the other and try for more. The banter of the Bannana Ball boys stays alive with this story to keep you interested as well. Arlo is a shy, sweeter version of his bigger brother Gordon. When Harrison decides to leave the dating app lifestyle in the hope of something more, he doesn't expect his best friend's brother, but that's how life works sometimes. These two have a sweet banter than translates hot in the bedroom. Harrison helps Arlo become more confident in showing his art to the world, which also helps young fans fall in love more with Banana Ball. Love the support of their other brother Noah when Gordon needs a clue by four to realize how deep in these two really are. Fun story overall, and I am looking forward to Ryan and Alan's story next up in this universe.
June 3, 2024
story of Arlo and Harrison
This is a best friend’s brother romance, featuring Harrison and Arlo, it is the second book in the Love In Play series.
This series is great, the first book was so funny and it’s awesome to have cameos of Duckie and Ian in this one.
Arlo is just the cutest, he is a children’s author and he is a little clumsy and shy and the opposite of Harrison. The interactions between Arlo and his brothers at the beginning of this book were hilarious.
Harrison is a player on and off the field but is sick of the meaningless hookups. And then the universe smiles on him and he meets Arlo, his best friend’s brother. Woo hoo!!!
Great low angst writing, lovely relationship development and support. Super cute HEA, lots of spicy scenes. Can’t wait for the next book. And I sure hope there is a series based in Noah’s frat 🙏 (please Becca).
This is a best friend’s brother romance, featuring Harrison and Arlo, it is the second book in the Love In Play series.
This series is great, the first book was so funny and it’s awesome to have cameos of Duckie and Ian in this one.
Arlo is just the cutest, he is a children’s author and he is a little clumsy and shy and the opposite of Harrison. The interactions between Arlo and his brothers at the beginning of this book were hilarious.
Harrison is a player on and off the field but is sick of the meaningless hookups. And then the universe smiles on him and he meets Arlo, his best friend’s brother. Woo hoo!!!
Great low angst writing, lovely relationship development and support. Super cute HEA, lots of spicy scenes. Can’t wait for the next book. And I sure hope there is a series based in Noah’s frat 🙏 (please Becca).
June 3, 2024
Several of my favorite tropes are handled beautifully in this one - the player who decides he wants to find a more meaningful relationship, the best friend's younger brother and opposites attract. I'm always happy to see an author as a main character and here in Arlo, we get an author/illustrator of children's books. I totally believed that a character like Harrison could suddenly decide he's had enough of the shallow hookups. Kind of like a smoker going cold turkey because he realizes what he's doing isn't healthy or any person who binges on something until one day they realize they are sick and tired of it. Harrison and Arlo might be opposites in their experience with dating, but once they find each other they are equally determined to be together and get that HEA. I wanted that for them as much as they did.
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