Playing Mr. Perfect: Clay Braden

The Bradens at Ridgeport #1

by Melissa Foster

Quarterback Clay "Mr. Perfect" Braden is determined to show sexy scientist Pepper Montgomery the benefits of hands-on research in PLAYING MR. PERFECT, the first book in the Bradens at Ridgeport series by New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melissa Foster. Loaded with heat, humor, and heart, this steamy, small-town, opposites-attract standalone romance is unputdownable. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a happily ever after that will leave you breathless.

What happens in Paris, stays in Paris, right?
Oh, Pepper. If only...

Okay, I admit it.

Sleeping with the NFL quarterback who the media has dubbed Mr. Perfect might not have been the smartest move, but I’m in the City of Love, I’d had a few drinks, and was jacked up on giddy girl talk and hopeful hearts—two things I never buy into—and I threw caution to the wind.

I want to sneak out before he wakes up, but when I open my eyes, he’s already up.

In more ways than one.

Convincing the ridiculously cocky (pun intended) man that I’m not the woman he slept with last night is awkward.

Actually, he makes it impossible.

The thing is, I don’t even know who that woman was.

And now he’s determined to find out.

**

THE BRADENS AT RIDGEPORT
Playing Mr. Perfect
Sincerely, Mr. Braden
More Bradens coming soon!

About the Series: Fall in love with the Bradens at Ridgeport and join these business-savvy, pleasure-oriented New Englanders as they fall head over heels with their forever loves.

Special Editions:
In addition to unique covers, special editions may include special formatting, images, and a playlist.

**
READY TO BINGE READ? The LOVE IN BLOOM big-family steamy contemporary romance collection features loyal alpha heroes and smart, empowered women. They're funny, flawed, passionate, and relatable to readers who enjoy sexy romance with emotional depth and strong storylines. Characters from each sub-series appear in future books so you never lose track of engagements, weddings, or births. Tropes include friends-to-lovers, billionaires, cowboys, close-proximity, fake dating, he falls first, enemies-to-lovers, sports romance, and more.

BIG FAMILIES / SMALL TOWNS (Heroes from all walks of life)
Snow Sisters
The Bradens at Weston
The Bradens at Trusty
The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor
The Bradens & The Montgomerys
The Remingtons
The Ryders
Sugar Lake
Harmony Pointe
The Mr. Right Checklist

CAPE COD and BEACH READS
Seaside Summers
Bayside Summers
The Steeles at Silver Island
Silver Harbor (Kindle Unlimited)
Hot Mess Summer (Kindle Unlimited)
Harborside Nights

BILLIONAIRES
Wild Billionaires After Dark
Bad Billionaires After Dark

BIKERS & BAD BOYS with BIG HEARTS
The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Bayside
The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Bayside
The Wickeds: Dark Knights at Redemption Ranch

**
"When it comes to contemporary romances with realistic characters, an emotional love story and smokin' hot sex, author Melissa Foster always delivers!" The Romance Reviews

"You can always rely on Melissa Foster to deliver a story that's fresh, emotional and entertaining...Every book's a winner!" NYT Bestselling Author Brenda Novak

"Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!" NYT Bestseller Lauren Blakely

"I highly recommend the Snow Sisters all the Braden and Remington books... They remind me of the McCarthy of Gansett series and The Green Mountain series. I am a huge fan of Marie Force. And now Melissa Foster has joined her ranks...." - I Love NY, Reviewer

Genres: Sports Romance, Romance, Sports, Contemporary, Audiobook, Football, Small Town Romance

436 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 12, 2025

About the author

NEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL, and USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

Never miss a release! Follow Melissa here on Amazon and sign up for her newsletter: https://MelissaFoster.com/Newsletter

Start FIVE of Melissa's series FREE in ebook format here: https://MelissaFoster.com/LIBFREE

FREE Love in Bloom Family Trees: https://MelissaFoster.com/RG

FREE Series Reading Order Checklist: https://MelissaFoster.com/SeriesCheck...

FREE Series Order Checklist by Publication Date (recommended): https://melissafoster.com/SeriesCheck...

Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.

Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com

Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.

Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.

"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose

"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge

Reviews

[Grace Btrs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fall in love in Paris. Fall in love with Paris.
But mostly, fall in love with Mr Not-so-perfect and Ms Perfectly Reckles.

This was a feel-good romance start to finish.
I could genuinely sense Clay and Pepper and see them fall in love on the page. Every moment, every touch, every kiss, every word, every sensual moment.
It was incredibly wholesome.

Although I didn't read the stories of the other Montgomerys, I was able to connect with them and care for them in this book as if we are long lost friends.
The sense of family and community is so strong in this book.
The way they all came together to help Pep and Clay was amazing.

I don't need to say much more about this book because it honestly speaks for itself. It surprised me in the best ways.

I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my opinion in any way.
--
Pre-read:
Come with me to a trip for Paris 🥰

[Gigi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Melissa Foster book, but it definitely won’t be my last! I really enjoyed it.

Pepper and Clay were absolutely perfect for each other. He noticed all the little things about her, pulled her out of her workaholic bubble, and made her feel special. She, in turn, gave him a safe space to be vulnerable. Their banter? Chef’s kiss. So cute, so funny, so swoon-worthy.

The chaos with both of their big families had me laughing so many times. I loved all the funny group texts and the crazy antics all around. And there are a ton of side characters, most of whom seem to have their own books in Melissa's backlist, which I can’t wait to check out!

Read this if you like:
❤️‍🔥 Football Romance
❤️‍🔥 Close Proximity
❤️‍🔥 He Falls First
❤️‍🔥 Opposites Attract .

[Hayley Gallant · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This was my first Melissa Foster book .. & I am hooked!

I loved this book so much!

The spice was absolutely perfect, the tension was on fire, and I just love a story where the MMC knows what he wants but it takes a bit for the FMC to know her worth. But, when she does .. 🎆

I understood that there were a lot of characters that must have their own books in this one, so I will definitely have to check them out one day!

You get:
• Contemporary Romance
• Spicy
• Football Player MMC
• Scientist FMC
• Forced Proximity
• He Falls First & Harder
• Grand Gesture

Such a great read! Available on ebook, paperback, and audiobook(coming soon).

[Jodi - JodiReadsnListens · Rating 4 out of 5]

** Audio Review **#TeamPlay4Ever! Playing Mr. Perfect by Melissa Foster was a sweet, swoony, and spicy football romance that had me smiling and happy sighing from start to finish. I loved everything about Pepper and Clay’s opposites attract romance, and couldn’t get enough of their love story. This is book one in Foster’s The Bradens at Ridgeport series, and I can’t wait for more.

Savannah Peachwood and Christian Fox perform this audiobook in dual narration. This narrator paring was everything I could want and more to bring Pepper and Clay to audio. Savannah embodied Pepper’s nerdy, sexy scientist aura perfectly. Plus, her performance showcased Pepper’s budding confidence as she fell a little bit more in love with Clay each day. Christian’s warm, inviting voice gave Clay the ideal amount of flirty, charismatic, and dedicated lover vibes that made this man simply irresistible. Plus, both narrators created an instant connection and steamy chemistry between Pepper and Clay that made me melt.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you are a fan of a sports romance with a hunky devoted football quarterback, a passionate scientist, steamy nights in Paris, he falls first, witty banter, blindfold spice, day dates at the Eiffel Tower, he helps her, she helps him, discovering new hobbies, close family, sunrises, intimate conversations, love declarations, and a HEA that is recklessly perfect, then you will love Pepper and Clay’s story. I look forward to more from Melissa Foster.

[Sienasummerrreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

“You can run but you can’t hide Reckless.”

This story follows Pepper Montgomery, a beautiful and intelligent scientist who runs a research and development company, revolutionizing the medical field with new devices. While on a trip to Paris with friends and family, everything changes. That’s when she crosses paths with Clay Braddon—a flirty, playboy jock and famous NFL player. Clay has been hooked on Pepper since a wedding and hasn’t stopped thinking about her. But how long can she resist his temptation?

This was a good read, and the audiobook is fantastic if you’re considering picking it up. That said, it’s not my favorite Melissa Foster book to date. I struggle with relationships that are already established from the start. The story is very character-driven, with little plot, and I prefer a bit more substance outside of the romance.

Don’t get me wrong—I enjoyed Pepper and Clay together. The spice was fantastic, and the sneaking around was delicious. I also liked Pepper’s self-doubt when it came to Clay; she doesn’t quite understand what he sees in her, which added depth to her character. Clay, on the other hand, is “Mr. Perfect”—thoughtful, caring, and completely devoted to making her feel special. While I loved Clay, his over-the-top affection felt like a bit much at times.

Ultimately, my reading experience with this one comes down to personal preference, so my review shouldn’t deter you from giving it a try!

Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 11hrs 36mins
Narrators: Savannah Peachwood and Christian Fox - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Standalone: Book One In The Branden’s at Ridgeport Series
Tropes or Themes: Sports (NFL), Opposites Attract, He Falls First, Fling, Travelling, Chemistry, Flirty, FMC Scientist, Sneaking Around, My Girl, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Bondage, Mirror Scene, Public Play, Mark Play, Belt Scene, Kitchen Scene and Panty Thief.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫

All Round Romance Reader 
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫

[BookishRaquel · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️ | 5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Small Town Romance
- Vacation in Paris
- Football Romance
- Opposites Attract
- Close Proximity
- He Falls First
- Man Obsessed
- Fun Banter
- Dual 1st Person POV

Melissa Foster has a way of pulling you into a story and making you fall madly in love with her characters. Clay "Mr. Perfect" and Pepper's story gave me all the feels. Clay felt a connection with Pepper from the moment they met. When he finds out she will be in Paris, he jumps at the opportunity to see her. Pepper doesn't like Clay's reputation as an athlete and tries to avoid him, but he is determined to make her his. They agree to one night of fun in Paris and plan to leave it all behind when they return to the US. Clay and Pepper quickly realize their feelings aren't easy to let go.

I loved the development of their relationship. They had such amazing chemistry. Clay was down bad for Pepper and his antics had Pepper's mind whirling. The hidden touches, jokes, and glances made it impossible for her to think about anything but him. Clay was determined and I enjoyed every second of it. This man is perfect and so swoony! He does and says all the right things. I loved how Clay pushed Pepper out of her comfort zone, made her feel comfortable being herself, and brought "reckless" out to play. This story is super steamy and will have you kicking your feet. The side characters, group texts, and family shenanigans were fun! I'm excited for more of the Bradens.

Narration:
Savannah Peachwood and Christian Fox perform this audiobook in dual-style narration. They are the perfect voices for the characters and brought them to life in the best way. Savannah and Christian's voices complemented each other well, and the chemistry was palpable.

Thanks to Melissa Foster, Lyric Audiobooks, and Must Love Audio for the gifted audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.

[claire - clairesbooked · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pepper and Clay are in Paris with mutual friends and her family and they hooked up in Paris, which is very unlike Pepper. Pepper insists on keeping things in Paris once they arrive back in the US. Living in different cities and with Clay’s season now over, he rents a place near Pepper and spends as much time with her as he can, showing her that he's not going anywhere. Pepper sees Clay’s past as a ladies man and she knows she has so much going on owning and working in her own research lab. Clay is head over heels and Pepper is in denial, but not for long.

Oh my gosh. The hangover from this book is unreal. Like Clay is on a short list of like two book boyfriends who are basically the closest thing to the perfect guy I've come across in the hundreds of romance books I've read. It's like how do I top this now?!? Clay literally says and does all the perfect things. Pepper is so fun once Clay gets her to open up. He brings out a different person in her. And I love how Pepper works with Clay to help him with some of the things he's going through. There's some third act wobble, but nothing crazy. This is an amazing story and I'm sure it will be one of my top picks for the year. I can't wait for book two!

Also, shout-out to Claire! I hardly ever see my name in books 😂

The narration in this book was amazing!! Christian Fox and Savannah Peachwood made an amazing Clay and Pepper!!

A big thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an advanced copy of this audiobook. Opinions are my own.

THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF: Just read it. It's for you. Trust me.

[Soly's Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quand on lit un roman de Melissa Foster, on sait qu'on va lire une romance forte en émotions, nouvelle et en même temps, c'est comme si on retrouvait des amis ou de la famille car on croise les personnages avant et on attend leurs histoires : c'est le cas, ici, de Pepper Montgomery, la soeur jumelle de l'héroïne de "Falling for Mr Bad", Sable qui est en tournée avec Johnny Bad (le héros de "Rock by love" qui est aussi le frère de son fiancé) mais aussi de Clay Braden, un joueur de football américain (alors, là, les Braden sont si nombreux que je ne peux me lancer dans toutes les histoires ^^ je dirais juste qu'il est le frère de Flynn, le héros de "Enticing her love" et que l'on a découvert toute la fratrie (je ne vous cache pas que je suis impatiente de lire leurs histoires) même si on les a croisés ici et là pour certains.
Clay et Pepper sont, en apparence, très différents l'un de l'autre : lui est un footballer professionnel reconnu et connu qui a gagné le surnom de "Mr Perfect" (je vous laisse découvrir pourquoi) et elle, c'est une scientifique qui vient de lancer sa propre boîte et qui est brillante. Tous deux sont des acharnés du travail et ont une vie intense où, au final, ils ont peu de temps pour une histoire d'amour.

Comme Clay est blessé (il se pose des questions quant à son avenir), il a accepté l'invitation de son ami et ancien footballer comme lui, Dash (là encore, c'est le héros de "Sweet Sexy Heart" et il est marié à la soeur de Pepper, Amber) à les rejoindre à Paris puisque Sable assure avec son groupe la première partie de la dernière tournée mondiale de Johnny. Evidemment, vous comprenez que ce voyage a un but pour lui : essayer de se rapprocher de cette jeune femme qui l'attire et qui, pour le moment, le rejette (ce qu'il n'a pas l'habitude) mais en réalité, cette dernière cache bien son jeu et ne veut pas être une femme de plus à son tableau de chasse mais il se pourrait que ce voyage dans la ville romantique par excellence, rebatte les cartes et leur ouvre enfin les yeux : mais, tous deux vivent loin l'un de l'autre, tous deux ont une vie professionnelle intense et Pepper ne peut se permettre de voir sa réputation entachée par une liaison avec "Mr Perfect" alors qu'elle a besoin de trouver de l'argent pour continuer à développer ses projets. Mais ce qui reste à Paris, reste à Paris, n'est pas? ou pas!
Comment ces deux-là, que tout semble séparer, pourront-ils trouver le bonheur? eh bien, vous le saurez en lisant ce nouveau et excellent roman de Melissa Foster qui donne déjà envie de lire l'histoire du chef Seth Braden qui m'intrigue depuis longtemps.
Comme toujours, Bravo à Melissa pour ses recherches, notamment sur Paris, j'ai été bluffée et pourtant, je vais régulièrement à Paris.

Vous retrouverez toutes les chroniques des romans que j'ai cités sur le blog et bien sûr sur mes réseaux sociaux ou ici.

Chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2025/...

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been awhile since I’ve read one of the authors books and I’ve been missing out because this was great! Pepper and Clay were an adorable couple and a perfect match. He was so patient and really willing to put in the work with her and once she allowed herself to explore a relationship she was all in. This was flirty, romantic and really fun, I loved that they both had large, wild families, it def made me want to go back and read the authors other books! Both narrators were phenomenal, such soothing yet engaging performances and they remain two of my top picks!

[Laurens.Little.Library · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 85%

frtc

[Ashley Arsenault · Rating 5 out of 5]

“ you can run, my secret vixen, but you can’t hide. “ - Clay

This was my first book by Melissa Foster ( although I own the whiskeys dark knights at redemption ranch series)

Let me tell you , Clay Brayden has made it onto my book boyfriend list! This man!! Oh my god!

Clay is a NFL pro quarterback, and as soon as he lays eyes on Pepper Montgomery he’s hooked.

I love a man that has been pining for a woman for over a year.
When he meets her and her family in Paris (much to her surprise) he wastes no time in trying to woo her.

Pepper is a scientist, workaholic, and owns her own company.

The banter between these two is hilarious! The humour that Clay embolds is top tier.
You can see their love blossoming through the pages as you read.

I found their families a little confusing in the beginning as they both have so many siblings and were all introduced quickly.

But the family dynamics for both were amazing and really brought a lot to the story.

I enjoyed Clay and Pepper so much and I can’t wait to read Seth’s story as well!

[Tiffany ✨️ Bergamot Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Pepper is a brilliant scientist who's all work and no play after recklessness got her in trouble in the past. Clay was an NHL playboy dubbed Mr. Perfect, but now inching closer to retirement with a shoulder injury and less passion for the game, he sets his sights on the one woman that runs every time he shows up.

*****

I'm not sure what it was about this one, but I struggled to connect with the leads. There was objectively nothing wrong with the book aside from some awkward dialogue and cheesy moments. The spice was decent, the conversations were fully fleshed out, and the scenes and transitions were detailed. Yet, for some reason, I just couldn't feel anything between them, despite the words on the page.

It could have been that the book was so much tell and not show, interspersed very heavily with dialogue. Or it could have been pacing in general. It felt like it wanted to be deep and touching, but I consistently had a hard time connecting with scenes as we didn't get to live them through the characters' eyes. It felt more like the occurrences were listed in detail, but it didn't have the same impact on my brain as experiencing the events from their perspectives. It made everything feel brief but also drag a bit once we got to actual dialogue, as that stood out so much more than anything else.

At the halfway mark, we got new character interactions that did bring some life to the story, but it still felt surface level as their relationship progressed. Despite this, Clay was written as a wonderful and supportive partner, and Pepper was written as a cautious woman coming into her own beautifully. Other than the incredibly cheesy town interference towards the end, and the last 10% really laying it on thick, it was a decent book. I'm sure others will genuinely enjoy it, it just wasn't something I was hooked on!

*****

Thank you to The Author Agency for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm excited about this new spinoff series we are embarking on. Clay and Peper's story has been one I have been anxiously awaiting, and Melissa Foster doesn't disappoint readers with this Spicy Opposites Attract Romance.

Oh my, the banter between these two was off the charts. I love Clay and Pepper together; they have a chemistry that everyone around them can see as plain as day, and the more Pepper fights it, the more Clay proves he is the Perfect guy for her.

𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚖𝚢 𝚏𝚞𝚕𝚕 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewPMP



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links

[Bk · Rating 1 out of 5]

All the Frigid Nerd's Problems are Solved by Dick

DNF'd at the end of the free sample. I disliked it almost from the very beginning. It's basically 90's or 00's romcom. I'm okay with a woman realizing she wants love in her life. I'm okay with a woman who wants to get a little more risque, etc. I'm okay with a take charge kind of guy. I'm not okay with how this book lays it all out. It's just a little too much of each and not at all nuanced.

We're introduced Pepper who is a workaholic. She runs her own medical research company, which hasn't left her much time for dating. All her sisters are paired off and in love. They let her know how lame she is because she's not dancing on bar tops and getting dicked down every night. Of course, despite being happy with her career and an intensely private person, she secretly wishes she was in their shoes. We're also given lectures by her sisters about how The Power of Love (TM) has transformed them into the absolute best version of themselves and given them the courage to love the best life every day, etc. Blech. 🤮

We also meet Clay who is a walking red flag. He's fixated on the one girl who won't give him the time of day. He makes a point to visit her family whenever he knows she'll be there. He flirts shamelessly with her even though it makes her uncomfortable (although, of course, she's "powerless" to resist his charms), he makes her dance with him, physically prevents her from ending the dance, demands to know why she denies their attraction. He touches her without her permission (putting his hand on her leg in the car, etc).

We get a super cringe scene of all the siblings and their SOs (and Clay) playing never have I ever. This is where we learn how frigid and vanilla Pepper is. Alllllll of her sisters are apparently into public sex and mock her for not being into that. Clay (being a famous football player) who has had plenty of action, including threesomes, condescendingly lets her know he doesn't mind she's vanilla. He'll give her all the good dick she could possibly want. Like this is basically his entire personality. Bad pickup lines, heavy doses on innuendo, and pushing her boundaries. But don't worry, Girlies, Pepper secretly wants to be pushed because her life is secretly empty and unfulfilling without the love of a Good Man. Pepper is actually truly unhappy being a private person with no man. She just needs to Let Herself Go and become the Real Woman she was always meant to be (with the help of Clay's dick, of course). 🙄

Let's look at some excerpts (although honestly, I'd have to include the whole chapter to really give a feel for the issue):

The Power of Love:
“O ye of little faith.” Morgyn points to me as we dance. “One day you’ll understand that all those facts you believe in don’t hold a candle to the power of the universe. With Graham, I’m happier and more creative than ever, and I get to live every moment with my best friend by my side. That’s the universe’s doing.” “That’s the power of love,” Amber chimes in. “Dash makes me see myself and the world differently. I’m stronger because I know he’ll love me through whatever else life throws at us…”
“He makes me want to do things and see places I was afraid of before he came into my life.” Amber glances at Dash with a dreamy expression.

The Drinking Game scene:
“Never have I ever,” Brindle, the drama queen, repeats, “had sex in public.” Everyone reaches for their shot glass except me. I swear my siblings are out to either embarrass me or find out all my secrets, and this is just one more thing that sets me apart from them. As banter and laughter ring out, even Amber, my most demure sister, is whispering and giggling with her husband. It’s like they’re all in some kind of naughty-fun club that I’m not privy to. Clay leans in and whispers, “I can help you remedy that."

As Axsel and the others discuss his varying trysts, Clay places his hand on my thigh, leaning closer, and says, “I can’t wait to hear your answer.” “I am not answering that question,” I whisper harshly. “Aw, come on, Pep. You can tell me. I won’t tell anyone.” His charm is addicting. “I am not telling you anything.” “I get it. You’re a bedroom-only girl. Probably vanilla, too. There’s no shame in that. It’s cool.”

I didn't even get to their first night together in order to rate the spiciness because the sample ended and then Amazon demanded $5.99. I was going to read it out of spite of it was on KU, but nope. Not paying for this.

[Nyx And Novels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick Stats:

Format: eBook and Audiobook.

Narrators: 🎙️ Christian Fox and Savannah Peachwood.

Narration Style: 🎧 Dual.

Whispersync For Voice Ready? ✅ Yes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Plot: 💬 

A one-night stand in Paris? Très romantic. But when NFL quarterback Clay Braden and scientist Pepper Montgomery return home, their ONS turns into something way more complicated. Suddenly, "Mr. Perfect" is showing up in her life, and he’s not the type to back down from a challenge.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
About The Author:

Melissa Foster knows how to write a romance that feels raw, sexy, emotional, and packed with swoon-worthy moments. She’s all about big-hearted heroes and strong heroines who can hold their own, and Playing Mr. Perfect is no exception.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Narrator Chemistry: 🎙️

Christian Fox as Clay: If smooth, confident, and irresistible had a voice, it would be Christian Fox. I've said it many times, if he narrates it, I listen to it. He captures Clay’s cocky-yet-genuine charm so well that you’ll instantly get why Pepper is struggling to resist.

Savannah Peachwood as Pepper: Can we please take a moment to appreciate the amazingness of this narrator? The versatility in her voice amazes me. The way she seamlessly goes from voicing Pepper to Clay, and to go from voicing a child to a grandparent....chefs kiss. You can easily determine which character she is speaking just by the tone she uses. She also nails Pepper’s intelligence and no-nonsense attitude, bringing out all the layers of her character from guarded and logical to slowly falling for the last guy she expected.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
About The Main Characters:

I loved seeing the character development throughout this entire story. The way they both discovered themselves as a couple but also individually was endearing.

Clay Braden: Star quarterback, smooth talker, a man who’s used to getting what he wants but a true sweetheart. Clay might have a reputation for being perfect on the field, but when it comes to love he’s playing a whole new game. With Pepper, winning her heart might be the biggest challenge of his career.

Pepper Montgomery: Brilliant, determined, and way too busy for romance. Pepper’s focus has always been on her career. Science makes sense, love doesn’t. She never expected one night with Clay to shake up her whole world, but now that he’s back in her orbit, he’s impossible to ignore.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Feels:

Laughter: 😂 3.5/5 – The flirty banter is top-tier. But also the banter between all of the siblings 👌

Swooniness: 🫠 5/5 – If you love a hero who knows what he wants and goes for it, this one’s for you.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sizzle Scale:

Scorching:🔥4/5 - If you like your romance steamy but meaningful, this one delivers. The chemistry between them is off the charts, and the build-up is totally worth it.
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Book Bite:

It’s got all the tension, all the swoon, and just the right amount of steam.

Tropes:
One-Night Stand Turns Serious.
Athlete x Brainy Heroine.
He Falls First…and Hard.
Sports Romance.
Opposites Attract.

[Kristin - The Literal Gal · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ Playing Mr. Perfect by Melissa Foster ✨

This was such a sweet sports romance with just the right amount of spice. Clay and Pepper get together in Paris on vacation. I love a romance that takes place in a travel destination and this one started out with a bang. Take me to Paris, please!!

Clay is such a swoony book boyfriend who is down bad right from the start and isn't afraid to do whatever it takes to get the girl. He jumped through all the hoops and his cocky confidence was so easy to fall for. Pepper is a serious scientist who takes life seriously and is very risk averse. I loved watching her open up and embrace who she really is.

There are lots of side characters and side relationships that were a little hard to follow if you hadn't read the other interconnected books or weren't familiar with both families from their series, but I still had such a good time reading about Clay and Pepper.

If you want a low angst, sweet sports romance with such a great happy ending, you'll love Mr. Perfect.

✨ Football Romance
✨ STEM Heroine
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ Man Obsessed
✨ Grand Gestures Galore

📚 Book: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Audio: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥Spice Rating: ❤️

🎧 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼...
The audiobook was narrated by Christian Fox and Savannah Peachwood. They have such great voices and I felt like they fit the characters so well.

Huge thank you to Melissa Foster and Must Love Audio for this gifted audiobook.

Spice Rating
🤍 clean romance
💗 closed door/ fade to black
❤️ spicy content (a few detailed scenes)
❤️‍🔥 explicit, play-by-play (major part of the plot)
🖤 graphic, more than vanilla

[Sarah | Retro Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Playing Mr. Perfect” was a contemporary romance novel featuring Clay Braden and Pepper Montgomery. It’s also the start to a new series called The Bradens at Ridgeport.

Clay and Pepper’s story was so much fun, as well as being incredibly swoony and super spicy, and I loved their chemistry from their very first interaction with each other.

Clay had to work very hard to get Pepper to give him a real chance, and I’m so glad that he was successful in the end! He was a kindhearted and generous man with a good sense of humor, which was nice to read about.

And Pepper! I thought she was so intelligent (she is a scientist after all), and I especially loved that she never dumbed herself down for anyone. She was quiet and serious at times, but I think being with Clay brought her out of her shell.

Honestly, I think that Melissa Foster truly has a gift when it comes to writing books that will immediately grab my attention. I’ve never been disappointed with any of her books, and “Playing Mr. Perfect” was no exception. I highly recommend!

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was everything, it was heartfelt, emotional, funny and just so damn perfect.

Clay is the new standard to beat, everything about him is perfection. He wanted Pepper for a whole year and she did everything she could to avoid him because he’s known as ‘Mr Perfect’ and she thought he was just some player.

Thanks to some very lovable family and friends they made each other again in Paris, ahh the city of love 😍 nothing could be better to finally explore the connection between them.

The chemistry between Clay and Pepper is electric throughout the entire book and I was LIVING for it ❤️. Clay would do absolutely anything for Pepper and this showed throughout the book, I won’t say more to avoid spoilers but *eekkkk* it makes me so happy.

It’s a beautiful storyline and is going on my list of comfort reads ❤️

There is not a single character that I didn’t love in this book and I need to read about Pepper’s sisters 🥰

p.s there’s no third act breakup ❤️

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to fall in love in the city of Love in Paris! This story had me in all the feels, kicking my feet giggling and falling for these two characters! I just loved how we had two opposite main characters that seemed to really compliment one another so well. Clay was able to get Pepper out of her comfort zone and to try new things. The book starts off in Paris and whirlwind adventure but ends up back in America and I just loved how their friendship and relationship evolved. Clay really was such a perfect MMC and his love for Pepper was really endearing. The family dynamics and the text banter between Pepper’s siblings was so fun!

The audiobook is dual narration done by Savannah Peachwood and Christian Fox. I loved these voices for Clay and Pepper. They brought the perfect personality and tone telling this story. It was such a great listen. They really complimented one another and I could feel the chemistry in the story.

[Melissa Wilks · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thankyou Melissa Foster and Greys Promotions for the opportunity to read and review Playing Mr. Perfect.
I usually lean towards hockey romances when I read sports romances, but I am venturing out and decided to read some football romances, Playing Mr. Perfect brings us quarterback Clay Brayden and scientist Pepper.
Clay has pined after pepper for years but everytime she sees him she disappears, fast forward and they are both in Paris to see peppers sisters band perform and End up having a night of passion that slowly turns into more!!
I have not read any of Melissa's other books but I definitely will be, I thoroughly enjoyed this one!

[Catarina Vieira | umlivroduplicado · Rating 4 out of 5]

The way I loved this man!!

This was my first book by Melissa Foster and definitely not my last.
The perfect book to everyone who loves romance without any major dramas!

Clay is just the perfect book boyfriend- totally obsessed with her and doing everything he can for a chance and let me tell you - he truly deserves one!! And they as a couple? AMAZING! I love the little references to their family and friends and I truly need to read more books from this author and meet more of them.

I did an immersive read and let me tell you the audio is so, so good!! Both of the narrators nailed and delivered everything! I am totally in love with Pepper and Clay.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star Review Playing Mr. Perfect: Clay Braden (The Bradens At Ridgeport #1) by Melissa Foster

This is Quarterback Clay Braden and scientist Pepper Montgomery’s story. This is a beautifully written, heart warming story that ticked all the boxes for me.

There were equal amounts of passion, romance and witty banter.
From the moment they met, the sparks flew and it was entertaining to watch their relationships develop.

If this book is anything to go by, the. She is off to a flying start in her latest series.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
Why you’ll love this book!!
🏈Sports Romance (He’s the Quarterback)
💕Scientist Heroine (She’s a workaholic)
🏈Opposites Attract
💕Paris Fling
🏈He Falls First
💕Small Town
🏈Close Proximity
💕Celebrity Romance
🏈Billionaire Romance
💕1st POV

I loved how Clay and Pepper got a book.. He is so into her but she try’s to put distance between them cause she can also feel it but it scares her more than anything.. I loved how Pepper helped Clay heal his demons .. I love how they’re each dying and yang and how they balance each other out. I also loved the big families dynamic!!

[Megan Snyder · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
4.5⭐️

Clay and Pepper have the perfect dynamic, chemistry that is electric and addictive. I adored the banter, how much Clay got under Pepper's skin, and how the walls she had up slowly crumbled as she let him in. Pepper isn't one who does relationships, but as the feelings grow, she lets him in and embraces the growing feelings.

I love how we get reintroduced to characters from her other books, which is always a pleasant surprise🥹 I don't think there is one book of Melissa's that I don't like! I could not get enough of this book!

[Sharon A. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Playing Mr Perfect by Melissa Foster

3.75🌟🌟🌟

Quote: “Where there is a will there is a way.”

I loved the Characters Pepper a scientist and Clay a professional quarterback. I love their banter and it made them so adorable together. He’s been trying to chase Pepper for a year and she’s been running in the other direction vowing to never date a sports athlete again. When he joins her family trip in Paris (he’s friends with her brother in law) she has no where to run and Clay is determined to prove he is different and Pepper soon learns not only is he different but so is she. He brings out the best in her and when he is all in he is all in. His love language is paying attention to all the small stuff and taking care of the people he loves. Can and will Pepper give in to her fears?

[Kaya · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️

✨He falls first
✨Paris Fling
✨Stem FMC x Quarterback MMC
✨Sibling Text Banter

I love me my Melissa Foster books and this was no exception. I am absolutely in love with all of her families and the dynamics that the siblings have with each other and the relationship between the parents and their children. And the Montgomery’s and the Braden’s were just as amazing as all the other families that I have fallen in love with in her other books. The dynamics that the siblings have with each other is so much fun and amazing, the sibling banter that they have and the fun sibling texts that we get to see as well as the siblings being supportive in everything that they do and how they are always there for each other.

We have met Clay and Pepper already in their sibling’s books, Clay in Enticing Her Love which is his brother Flynn’s book and Pepper in her twin sister Sable’s book Falling for Mr. Bad, and I absolutely loved getting to see them again and explore their dynamic. One thing that I also adore about Melissa’s book is that we get to see so many of the main character’s siblings in her books, we get to see pretty much all of both Clay and Pepper’s siblings in this one as well as their parents and even grandparents for Clay. And while I love how supportive the siblings always are and the close bond they all have, I also loved seeing how different Pepper felt from her sisters.

And the chemistry between Clay and Pepper was just amazing. From the way that Pepper always tried to avoid Clay whenever she could and Clay trying to insert himself into events and situations that he knew she would be in, to them spending more time together in Paris than they had ever done before, to Clay pursuing Pepper when they are back in America and not letting her go even though they said that what happened in Paris would stay in Paris. I truly adored that about Clay, that while he was seen as the cocky quarterback and “Mr. Perfect” by everyone else he was so different when he was with his family and Pepper and the more time he spent with Pepper the more she and we got to see what he was truly like behind this mask he created for the public.

[Jessie Carvalho · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author, and Grey's Promotions for the gifted e-book! ❤️ #gifted. My review is comprised of my honest thoughts.

Read this if you like: Paris setting, spicy, sports romance, opposites attract

Per usual, Melissa did not disappoint. This was so good. This was sweet, spicy, and swoony. Pepper and Clay were so cute. I highly recommend it!

[Ana Filipa · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.50⭐️

[Read All About It · Rating 4 out of 5]

With explosive chemistry and banter that is angsty and laugh out loud this one is a winner.

“I’m crazy about you, Reckless.”

Clay is in hot pursuit but Pepper is a shy workaholic. She just doesn’t see herself with a famous athlete. She fights him every step of the way.

I love all the parts of us, but this part, where we can walk hand in hand and conversation comes easily, without awkward silences or the need for entertainment, is one of my favorites.

With the whole family pushing them together it’s an adventure you don’t want to miss.

[Marrissa Horton · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a swoonworthy sports romance, check this one out!! Talk about a man obsessed! Clay would and does do anything for the lady he can’t take his mind off of, Pepper. She took some time to get there, but he was all in from day one, and it was so sweet! I love their opposites attract vibes - she’s a no nonsense scientist with a research and development company, and he is a popular professional football player with a reputation as “Mr. Perfect”.

The audiobook is narrated by Christian Fox and Savannah Peachwood, and I loved listening to them bring these characters to life. They definitely added to the story for me! @readbythefox @savannahpeachwood
Produced by @lyricaudiobooks 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

Listen if you like ⇣
•Sports romance
•Opposites attract
•Paris fling
•He falls first
•Billionaire romance
•Big family dynamics
•Low angst
•Dual POV
•Spice

Thank you Must Love Audio and Melissa Foster for the ALC!