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Playmaker
Spring Break is about having fun–and a steamy friends with benefits relationship for Maddie and Cameron until they realize they might be falling in love. This BookTok sensation is perfect for fans of Hannah Grace’s Icebreaker and Tessa Bailey’s spicy rom-coms.
What started as a game just got serious.
Cameron's a hot NFL prospect, and a total player on and off the field. But his moves don't seem to work on Maddie. While she once crushed on him hard, that crush has since faded. She’s got big plans of her own and they don’t include him.
Then Spring Break turns their plans, and their feelings, upside down. Maddie and Cameron start a steamy affair, sneaking around behind their families’ backs. But there's one big problem: Maddie’s WAY overprotective brother–who happens to be Cameron’s BFF.
Will Cam be able to admit he's got real feelings? Will Maddie ever be able to stand up to her brother and make her own decisions?
One thing's for sure, their choices will change their life playbooks for good.
Based on the smash Webnovel, MY BROTHER'S BEST FRIEND, this spicy sports romance is sure to give readers a thrill.
What started as a game just got serious.
Cameron's a hot NFL prospect, and a total player on and off the field. But his moves don't seem to work on Maddie. While she once crushed on him hard, that crush has since faded. She’s got big plans of her own and they don’t include him.
Then Spring Break turns their plans, and their feelings, upside down. Maddie and Cameron start a steamy affair, sneaking around behind their families’ backs. But there's one big problem: Maddie’s WAY overprotective brother–who happens to be Cameron’s BFF.
Will Cam be able to admit he's got real feelings? Will Maddie ever be able to stand up to her brother and make her own decisions?
One thing's for sure, their choices will change their life playbooks for good.
Based on the smash Webnovel, MY BROTHER'S BEST FRIEND, this spicy sports romance is sure to give readers a thrill.
400 pages, Paperback
First published October 22, 2024
105 people are currently reading
21202 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 402 reviews
September 20, 2025
A college sports romance with brother’s best friend…oh ADD to cart! If you love the “it’s always been you” trope from The Summer I Turned Pretty, this book is for you.
Maddie’s spring break plans consist of one thing and one thing only…studying. And most definitely not thinking about her older brother’s best friend, a star quarterback. But forced proximity pushes the two together, and soon enough, they find themselves knee deep in a situationship. Cue Guilty as Sin by Taylor Swift. As they spend more time together, feelings grow, but are they ready to take the next step?
Okay so this is one of those romance books where there’s not really (at all) a plot…it’s just vibes. And romance. And spice. Which, if you’re in the mood for that, it’s perfect. I loved the situationship to lovers trope, and the characters had excellent chemistry. I always love an opposites attract book.
Not to make everything about The Summer I Turned Pretty, but this did have a similar feeling. We have the aforementioned brother’s best friend, plus the MMC had parallels to Conrad, especially in the emotional backstory realm.
Based on the cover, I thought the sports part would play a much larger role. Football, in this case, was mainly featured when the MMC questioned his goals and purpose in life. I also wasn’t a fan of the third act breakup at the end. It didn’t seem necessary, and why were these events happening at the 95% mark. But an entertaining read if you’re looking for a short and spicy escapism romance!
Maddie’s spring break plans consist of one thing and one thing only…studying. And most definitely not thinking about her older brother’s best friend, a star quarterback. But forced proximity pushes the two together, and soon enough, they find themselves knee deep in a situationship. Cue Guilty as Sin by Taylor Swift. As they spend more time together, feelings grow, but are they ready to take the next step?
Okay so this is one of those romance books where there’s not really (at all) a plot…it’s just vibes. And romance. And spice. Which, if you’re in the mood for that, it’s perfect. I loved the situationship to lovers trope, and the characters had excellent chemistry. I always love an opposites attract book.
Not to make everything about The Summer I Turned Pretty, but this did have a similar feeling. We have the aforementioned brother’s best friend, plus the MMC had parallels to Conrad, especially in the emotional backstory realm.
Based on the cover, I thought the sports part would play a much larger role. Football, in this case, was mainly featured when the MMC questioned his goals and purpose in life. I also wasn’t a fan of the third act breakup at the end. It didn’t seem necessary, and why were these events happening at the 95% mark. But an entertaining read if you’re looking for a short and spicy escapism romance!
October 14, 2024
BROTHER'S BEST FRIEND IS SO HOT. Period. That’s it. 🔥
This is the PERFECT palette cleanser for anyone craving some sugar, spice, and everything nice 🍬🌶️✨ It was so cute seeing Maddie, who’s always had a crush on Cameron, finally accepting it would never happen... until Spring Break rolls around, and wowza! Who doesn’t love a man going, "Why am I jealous? She’s off-limits." 😏
I loved the dual POV because you could totally feel their emotions tangled up in every interaction until they finally cut the tension and started to untangle everything 💖 Not gonna lie, I was worried for them, our boy Cameron has some serious trauma, and it shows lmao! But I’m so glad with how things wrapped up.
And let’s not forget the spice because it was CALIENTE 🌶️🔥 I enjoyed every single scene sometimes, you just need to read it for the smut and this one DELIVERED. 😍
Tropes:
✨Brother's best friend
✨Childhood crush
✨Friends to lovers
✨Secret romance
✨Sports Romance (he plays football-but in spring break setting)
Thank you, NetGalley, Wattpad Books, & Deanna, for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚ I been reading too much fantasy.. give me somesmut sports romance 🏈
This is the PERFECT palette cleanser for anyone craving some sugar, spice, and everything nice 🍬🌶️✨ It was so cute seeing Maddie, who’s always had a crush on Cameron, finally accepting it would never happen... until Spring Break rolls around, and wowza! Who doesn’t love a man going, "Why am I jealous? She’s off-limits." 😏
I loved the dual POV because you could totally feel their emotions tangled up in every interaction until they finally cut the tension and started to untangle everything 💖 Not gonna lie, I was worried for them, our boy Cameron has some serious trauma, and it shows lmao! But I’m so glad with how things wrapped up.
And let’s not forget the spice because it was CALIENTE 🌶️🔥 I enjoyed every single scene sometimes, you just need to read it for the smut and this one DELIVERED. 😍
Tropes:
✨Brother's best friend
✨Childhood crush
✨Friends to lovers
✨Secret romance
✨Sports Romance (he plays football-but in spring break setting)
Thank you, NetGalley, Wattpad Books, & Deanna, for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱｡ꪆৎ ˚ I been reading too much fantasy.. give me some
August 16, 2024
2.5 ˖⁺‧✮
i don’t have much to say about the book. the plot was fun and engaging, seeing characters development was definitely unexpected but enjoyable. i liked both main characters and their chemistry.
i wished for more chapters from childhood to help understand their relationship as kids. what i didn’t like was a lot of trauma mentioning. by 3rd time i understood that he was hurt but he would bring it up a more than often and sometimes it felt unnecessary. in general, writing and book was not for me but i know some of you will definitely enjoy.
honestly, would love to read a book about brother and her best friend👀
Thank you Edelweiss and Wattpad WEBTOON for approving my request
i don’t have much to say about the book. the plot was fun and engaging, seeing characters development was definitely unexpected but enjoyable. i liked both main characters and their chemistry.
i wished for more chapters from childhood to help understand their relationship as kids. what i didn’t like was a lot of trauma mentioning. by 3rd time i understood that he was hurt but he would bring it up a more than often and sometimes it felt unnecessary. in general, writing and book was not for me but i know some of you will definitely enjoy.
honestly, would love to read a book about brother and her best friend👀
Thank you Edelweiss and Wattpad WEBTOON for approving my request
September 26, 2025
✨pre read✨
the cover is so ugly, WHY DOES THE DUDE LOOK LIKE THAT??!!
I guess i'm willing to give it a go?
⭐4 stars⭐
What To Expect
🏈 brother's best friend
📚 playboy x virgin
🏈 jock vs nerd
📚 trauma & loss
🏈 secret hook-ups
📚 friends to enemies to lovers
🏈 miscommunication
📚 childhood crush
🏈 forced proximity
📚 family drama
Playmaker is a juicy, fun sports-romance that balances steam, feels, and drama in such a way that I was totally invested. It leans on classic tropes (yes please) but gives them enough personality & emotional stakes that you care about what happens. Some pacing could’ve been tighter, and sometimes tension did feel a little predictable, but overall — soooo satisfying. If you're into “hot best friend’s brother / reformed playboy / friends-with-benefits” vibes, this is your jam.
Summary Paragraph
Maddie’s got big dreams 🎓, Cameron’s got charm for days 🏈, and everything seems under control—until Spring Break flips the script. Their past crushes bubble back up 💥, sneaky “friends-with-benefits” arrangements hide behind smiles and guilt 😳, and Maddie’s overprotective brother adds “OMG don’t do it” levels of tension every time Cam’s near. As feelings get messy, confessions get harder, and both have to decide if what they want is worth stepping over comfort, loyalty, and heartbreak. It’s flirty. It’s spicy. It’s definitely messy in the best possible way 🔥💕.
Maddie
Smart, ambitious (studying to be a doctor), independent, loyal. Has dreams that don’t include being tied down, emotionally strong, but also vulnerable — especially with her history with Cameron. Her goals help ground her; loves scenes where she stands up for herself. Sometimes her past crush vs. present feelings back-and-forth drags a bit, but mostly her voice is solid.
Cameron (Cam)
NFL prospect, charming + confident, has baggage (especially around family & expectations). He knows he messed up with Maddie in the past, wants redemption, is slow to open up, feels guilty + torn. He gets a good growth arc. Watching him wrestle with being the “player” reputation vs. actually wanting something real is compelling. Where it gets messy is in some of his internal monologue — sometimes angsty-guilt gets heavy. But overall love him.
"Thousands of emotions run through my mind, but the most prominent is embarrassment … I foolishly held on to the hope that this time things would work out for us.”
the cover is so ugly, WHY DOES THE DUDE LOOK LIKE THAT??!!
I guess i'm willing to give it a go?
⭐4 stars⭐
What To Expect
🏈 brother's best friend
📚 playboy x virgin
🏈 jock vs nerd
📚 trauma & loss
🏈 secret hook-ups
📚 friends to enemies to lovers
🏈 miscommunication
📚 childhood crush
🏈 forced proximity
📚 family drama
Playmaker is a juicy, fun sports-romance that balances steam, feels, and drama in such a way that I was totally invested. It leans on classic tropes (yes please) but gives them enough personality & emotional stakes that you care about what happens. Some pacing could’ve been tighter, and sometimes tension did feel a little predictable, but overall — soooo satisfying. If you're into “hot best friend’s brother / reformed playboy / friends-with-benefits” vibes, this is your jam.
Summary Paragraph
Maddie’s got big dreams 🎓, Cameron’s got charm for days 🏈, and everything seems under control—until Spring Break flips the script. Their past crushes bubble back up 💥, sneaky “friends-with-benefits” arrangements hide behind smiles and guilt 😳, and Maddie’s overprotective brother adds “OMG don’t do it” levels of tension every time Cam’s near. As feelings get messy, confessions get harder, and both have to decide if what they want is worth stepping over comfort, loyalty, and heartbreak. It’s flirty. It’s spicy. It’s definitely messy in the best possible way 🔥💕.
Maddie
Smart, ambitious (studying to be a doctor), independent, loyal. Has dreams that don’t include being tied down, emotionally strong, but also vulnerable — especially with her history with Cameron. Her goals help ground her; loves scenes where she stands up for herself. Sometimes her past crush vs. present feelings back-and-forth drags a bit, but mostly her voice is solid.
Cameron (Cam)
NFL prospect, charming + confident, has baggage (especially around family & expectations). He knows he messed up with Maddie in the past, wants redemption, is slow to open up, feels guilty + torn. He gets a good growth arc. Watching him wrestle with being the “player” reputation vs. actually wanting something real is compelling. Where it gets messy is in some of his internal monologue — sometimes angsty-guilt gets heavy. But overall love him.
"Thousands of emotions run through my mind, but the most prominent is embarrassment … I foolishly held on to the hope that this time things would work out for us.”
April 11, 2025
I really thought I was going to enjoy this one. I like sports romances and having a brother’s best friend trope together was something that could’ve worked. Unfortunately, this was just not for me at all 😬
There is so much more smut than plot. And that’s fine if people prefer it but I really do mean there was nothing else but smut in this. I read it thoroughly for the first 25%, but quickly started skimming past everything because of the flat storyline. By the time I hit 50%, I was only reading every other dialogue scenes and that was it. Every scene with Maddie and Cameron is them fighting, getting turned on by each other, doing the dirty, and something comes to break them up. Literally anything—Maddie getting turned off by not being his first, Cameron saying he’s an expert at everything sex, his football maniac dad, Maddie’s brother, etc. It was so repetitive and had no substance at all. Even the deep, personal scenes felt so flat and empty and forced like it was just there to contrast (not effectively) with all the smut. There was so much telling about how badly they cared for each other and how they couldn’t stand to be away from each other, but my goodness. It felt like it was being thrown in our faces with no subtlety.
Maddie was a very flat character. There was so much telling versus showing about her life. We’re told she studies so much to be an oncologist and I just didn’t feel anything personal with that because it was all told, not shown. It didn’t make me want to root for her. She was really annoying, too. Her best friend, Maya, literally warned her about hooking up with Cameron and not wanting her to get hurt (valid, you go, hun) because he is such a playboy and uses sex with girls as literal therapy? (stated multiple times, fyi. If that’s not a red flag I don’t know what is 🚩🚩🚩) And what does Maddie say? She says it doesn’t matter if she gets crushed in the end because at least she had those moments with him. But then spends later scenes moping about how she wasn’t his first, other girls turn him on more, etc. She just makes the most questionable decisions for herself and it’s frustrating. I can’t root for you like this.
Cameron might be the most frustrating and annoying MMC I’ve ever read in a romance before 😤Every single page is about how he has sex with so many girls and how he’s known for hitting-it-and-quitting-it 🚩 His words, not mine 🤢 He gloats so much about how he’s hot and knows it (literally states he cannot even count how many girls have said he’s hot, as cocky and unbelievable it sounds to us readers). 🚩 Also he’s so possessive and not in a good way. Like borderline creepy and wanting to be near Maddie and have sex with her and kiss her every moment, but not wanting to get attached. But also struggling with having feelings for her. Am I supposed to support him? He literally says he wants to hear her say she loves him, but says he doesn’t want to say it back because he’s too emotionally detached 🚩 LIKE PLEASE 🙄 And I know cancer is awful and trauma can really get in the way of building healthy relationships. But this boy literally uses it for every single thing! The trauma-dumping and using it as a valid excuse was really bad in this one. 🚩
Also this needs to be said, but he mentions becoming physically aroused so many times by Maddie that it’s just ridiculous the way he describes it. It’s always “my dick this” and “my cock that." He mentions it so many times figuratively and literally that his own dick could be a supporting character in this book 🥴 Like why does he need to tell us what his dick is doing every single time? No, I don’t care what made little Cameron stand up in excitement or get him all worked up at the sight of Maddie. On every other page? I wish I was lying but I’m not. I could write paragraphs about how much this boy got on my nerves.
I know Wattpad books have a notorious reputation for being not the greatest quality, but there are gems on Wattpad if you look carefully. This is unfortunately not one of them. Everyone is written like they have the mindset of middle schoolers, the dialogue is so forced, the heart-to-hearts are awkward and dull. The main characters have no chemistry, all they do is bang and snap at each other for the littlest things. Everyone is superficial in dealing with their problems and I was so over them being immature literally at the 40% mark. I honestly think my favourite part of this was the cover.
If you like smutty books that have 0% plot in them, superficial characters, flat scenes, a poor storyline, and continuous references to what the MMC’s dick is doing every other page (in case you wanted to know); try it.
Otherwise, I would find something else.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group | W by Wattpad Books for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
There is so much more smut than plot. And that’s fine if people prefer it but I really do mean there was nothing else but smut in this. I read it thoroughly for the first 25%, but quickly started skimming past everything because of the flat storyline. By the time I hit 50%, I was only reading every other dialogue scenes and that was it. Every scene with Maddie and Cameron is them fighting, getting turned on by each other, doing the dirty, and something comes to break them up. Literally anything—Maddie getting turned off by not being his first, Cameron saying he’s an expert at everything sex, his football maniac dad, Maddie’s brother, etc. It was so repetitive and had no substance at all. Even the deep, personal scenes felt so flat and empty and forced like it was just there to contrast (not effectively) with all the smut. There was so much telling about how badly they cared for each other and how they couldn’t stand to be away from each other, but my goodness. It felt like it was being thrown in our faces with no subtlety.
Maddie was a very flat character. There was so much telling versus showing about her life. We’re told she studies so much to be an oncologist and I just didn’t feel anything personal with that because it was all told, not shown. It didn’t make me want to root for her. She was really annoying, too. Her best friend, Maya, literally warned her about hooking up with Cameron and not wanting her to get hurt (valid, you go, hun) because he is such a playboy and uses sex with girls as literal therapy? (stated multiple times, fyi. If that’s not a red flag I don’t know what is 🚩🚩🚩) And what does Maddie say? She says it doesn’t matter if she gets crushed in the end because at least she had those moments with him. But then spends later scenes moping about how she wasn’t his first, other girls turn him on more, etc. She just makes the most questionable decisions for herself and it’s frustrating. I can’t root for you like this.
Cameron might be the most frustrating and annoying MMC I’ve ever read in a romance before 😤Every single page is about how he has sex with so many girls and how he’s known for hitting-it-and-quitting-it 🚩 His words, not mine 🤢 He gloats so much about how he’s hot and knows it (literally states he cannot even count how many girls have said he’s hot, as cocky and unbelievable it sounds to us readers). 🚩 Also he’s so possessive and not in a good way. Like borderline creepy and wanting to be near Maddie and have sex with her and kiss her every moment, but not wanting to get attached. But also struggling with having feelings for her. Am I supposed to support him? He literally says he wants to hear her say she loves him, but says he doesn’t want to say it back because he’s too emotionally detached 🚩 LIKE PLEASE 🙄 And I know cancer is awful and trauma can really get in the way of building healthy relationships. But this boy literally uses it for every single thing! The trauma-dumping and using it as a valid excuse was really bad in this one. 🚩
Also this needs to be said, but he mentions becoming physically aroused so many times by Maddie that it’s just ridiculous the way he describes it. It’s always “my dick this” and “my cock that." He mentions it so many times figuratively and literally that his own dick could be a supporting character in this book 🥴 Like why does he need to tell us what his dick is doing every single time? No, I don’t care what made little Cameron stand up in excitement or get him all worked up at the sight of Maddie. On every other page? I wish I was lying but I’m not. I could write paragraphs about how much this boy got on my nerves.
I know Wattpad books have a notorious reputation for being not the greatest quality, but there are gems on Wattpad if you look carefully. This is unfortunately not one of them. Everyone is written like they have the mindset of middle schoolers, the dialogue is so forced, the heart-to-hearts are awkward and dull. The main characters have no chemistry, all they do is bang and snap at each other for the littlest things. Everyone is superficial in dealing with their problems and I was so over them being immature literally at the 40% mark. I honestly think my favourite part of this was the cover.
If you like smutty books that have 0% plot in them, superficial characters, flat scenes, a poor storyline, and continuous references to what the MMC’s dick is doing every other page (in case you wanted to know); try it.
Otherwise, I would find something else.
Thank you to NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group | W by Wattpad Books for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
December 2, 2024
Huge thanks to NetGalley and W by Wattpad Books for this ARC! I am honestly so amazed this book started on wattpad bc it is so good!!! It is a breath of fresh air. Whereas other romance books play out the third act breakup for far too long, Deanna Faison gave us just enough heartache to keep us hooked without the heartache becoming too unbearable, and I for one couldn’t have asked for it to be any other way! The book deals with what grief can do to you, cause you to push those who love you away. However, Deanna Faison showcased through the characters what course of action can help with mending those relationships we destroy when we’re consumed in grief. Cameron’s story was heart wrenching but also inspirational in the end. I really enjoyed how, despite their fears and traumas, the characters displayed the healing power of love, be it romantic, platonic, or familial. I bawled my eyes out many times throughout the second half of the book. And on a less serious note, this book is SPICY. Did not expect that much spice and I am not complaining!! This book gave me everything I love and I hope to read more books by this author!
dnf
October 24, 2024god, people are still liking this kind of shit ?
He is a whore who wants his friend's sister but fucks anything that walks, second chapter him fucking ow thinking of h in HER OWN FUCKING HOUSE . just eww bro
He is a whore who wants his friend's sister but fucks anything that walks, second chapter him fucking ow thinking of h in HER OWN FUCKING HOUSE . just eww bro
June 12, 2024
OH I LOVE MADDIE AND CAMERON SO MUCH😭 this book was so freaking cute and spicy and i could not put it down!!
Want to read
September 21, 2024this covvverrrrr. i love me a man in athleisure
November 26, 2024
3.5 stars
Playmaker is a contemporary sports romance, with brother’s best friend trope. This book follows the dual perspective of Maddie and Cameron. Maddie was definitely hard to love at first she came across snobbish and judgemental. I did like how she was dedicated to her studies and working hard but was a little over the top at times. She did grow on me and loosen up a bit. Cameron was typically full of himself, a ladies man heading to the big leagues, which again was a little over the top. The story, pace and writing did smooth out the second half and I had an enjoyable time reading this romance in the second half. There was miscommunication and sneaking around, the ending was a bit predictable, but it was just a light enjoyable read for the most part so if that is what you're looking for check this book out.
I received an advance ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
November 4, 2024
I had a blast reading this, I loved the main character and I absolutely love seeing some curvy girl representation especially in sports romance. I’m so happy to got a physical copy for my shelf because this book was so fun and I literally could not put it down! Thank you to the author Deanna for sending me a physical Arc and for Netgally for this e-arc
October 19, 2024
This just wasn't for me.
I felt like there were too many spicy scenes. For me, they took away from everything else. There needed to be a bit more character development and really plot development. It seemed like those were sort of rushed or discarded for spice.
There really isn't much to say other than that. It was, for me, flat and became a bit boring. I found myself skimming towards the end to get through it. If you're looking for something spice heavy, you will enjoy it absolutely.
Thank you to Netgalley, Wattpad WEBTOON, and Deanna Faison for this gifted arc.
I felt like there were too many spicy scenes. For me, they took away from everything else. There needed to be a bit more character development and really plot development. It seemed like those were sort of rushed or discarded for spice.
There really isn't much to say other than that. It was, for me, flat and became a bit boring. I found myself skimming towards the end to get through it. If you're looking for something spice heavy, you will enjoy it absolutely.
Thank you to Netgalley, Wattpad WEBTOON, and Deanna Faison for this gifted arc.
February 4, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Are you kiddddinggg? Healthy communication with amazing spice and not too much sports talk? That's what I'm talking about. I don't need to hear about a ball doing what a ball does on some field, all I need to know is that he does a sport and it's his whole life until he reconnects with ✨ her ✨
Are you kiddddinggg? Healthy communication with amazing spice and not too much sports talk? That's what I'm talking about. I don't need to hear about a ball doing what a ball does on some field, all I need to know is that he does a sport and it's his whole life until he reconnects with ✨ her ✨
March 18, 2025
This just wasn't for me.
And I've never read such a smutty book omg 😄
And I've never read such a smutty book omg 😄
June 13, 2024
This is an ARC review 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved Playmaker. How much, you ask? Well, I read the entire book on my phone after thinking I would just check out a few pages before I could go home and grab my Kindle! I was totally incapable of putting it down.
The history between Cam and Maddie, how they grew up together, had me rooting for them from page one. I loved the spice in this book because of the passion between the characters. It all felt very authentic to me, and since I’m not a huge fan of insta-love, this book was right up my alley.
Cam and Maddie face some tough challenges as they navigate grief and uncertainties together, but their story is honestly captivating. Think fluffy, spicy, sports romance with a totally believable connection between the MMC and FMC. This book is so easy to adore.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved Playmaker. How much, you ask? Well, I read the entire book on my phone after thinking I would just check out a few pages before I could go home and grab my Kindle! I was totally incapable of putting it down.
The history between Cam and Maddie, how they grew up together, had me rooting for them from page one. I loved the spice in this book because of the passion between the characters. It all felt very authentic to me, and since I’m not a huge fan of insta-love, this book was right up my alley.
Cam and Maddie face some tough challenges as they navigate grief and uncertainties together, but their story is honestly captivating. Think fluffy, spicy, sports romance with a totally believable connection between the MMC and FMC. This book is so easy to adore.
July 18, 2025
Ne nicht so meins, aber hat nur 0,99 € gekostet
July 31, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Wattpad for the opportunity to review this ARC.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this book and DNFed at 20% of the way through. It was like pulling teeth to read this and I just couldn’t go on.
Firstly, the book felt extremely unoriginal. It was like something I’ve read a million times, with nothing new to set it apart from the rest.
Secondly, I swear I could’ve written this book at the age of 14 on Wattpad. It was very poorly written, feeling like I was reading a Young Adult novel, while randomly throwing in sexual scenes. The banter and everything was just super overused, cheesy (not the good kind), and honestly just blah. I found myself rolling my eyes whenever I would hear some of the characters thoughts, and I couldn’t say I took a liking to either of the main characters which will definitely make or break a book for me.
I’m normally a whore for a sports romance book, but this just didn’t meet the mark for me.
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this book and DNFed at 20% of the way through. It was like pulling teeth to read this and I just couldn’t go on.
Firstly, the book felt extremely unoriginal. It was like something I’ve read a million times, with nothing new to set it apart from the rest.
Secondly, I swear I could’ve written this book at the age of 14 on Wattpad. It was very poorly written, feeling like I was reading a Young Adult novel, while randomly throwing in sexual scenes. The banter and everything was just super overused, cheesy (not the good kind), and honestly just blah. I found myself rolling my eyes whenever I would hear some of the characters thoughts, and I couldn’t say I took a liking to either of the main characters which will definitely make or break a book for me.
I’m normally a whore for a sports romance book, but this just didn’t meet the mark for me.
May 29, 2025
Playmaker is the first book in the Hidden Attractions series and I absolutely loved it. Honestly right from the start I knew I would fall in love with it. Deanna’s writing just grabbed me right away and once I started it was impossible to put down. Her style of writing was just simple, flowy, descriptive without it being too much. I was easily able to imagine the characters and scenes in my head. This book had me kicking my feet, giggling and fanning myself all at the same time. Maddie & Cameron are just so darn cute. I absolutely love them !!!
The chemistry between these 2 is undeniable. I really enjoyed the flashbacks from both Maddie & Cameron, to see what transpired in the past and what made them how they reacted or acted in the present. This book definitely has a lot of spice, but honestly for me it worked in this storyline as it was how they rekindled and restarted their relationship. They still had feelings for each other throughout it so to me it wasn't pointless. The storyline is charming but it also carries emotional depth which I appreciated. Also, I appreciated that they communicated when there was an issue, it was resolved and they moved on. It was just as a whole such a great read.
Overall, this was a great debut. I truly enjoyed it from beginning to end. Nothing too complex or revolutionary, but it did what it intended to do. I fell in love with these characters and with this author. Can't wait for the second book!
✨️Thank you to @wbywattpad & @deannafaison for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
The chemistry between these 2 is undeniable. I really enjoyed the flashbacks from both Maddie & Cameron, to see what transpired in the past and what made them how they reacted or acted in the present. This book definitely has a lot of spice, but honestly for me it worked in this storyline as it was how they rekindled and restarted their relationship. They still had feelings for each other throughout it so to me it wasn't pointless. The storyline is charming but it also carries emotional depth which I appreciated. Also, I appreciated that they communicated when there was an issue, it was resolved and they moved on. It was just as a whole such a great read.
Overall, this was a great debut. I truly enjoyed it from beginning to end. Nothing too complex or revolutionary, but it did what it intended to do. I fell in love with these characters and with this author. Can't wait for the second book!
✨️Thank you to @wbywattpad & @deannafaison for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2024
Playmaker by Deanna Faison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I adored this book from beginning to end, it had me giggling kicking my feet and crying in the same chapter. The chemistry between Maddie and Cameron was captivating, and I especially enjoyed the flashbacks to their younger years. The book struck a perfect balance between plot and spice, and the way the characters were written made it easy to fall in love with them. I also found myself falling in love with Deanna's writing, and thanks to Netgalley, I'm now eager to read her other books. Many thanks to Deanna Faison, Netgalley, and Wattpad WEEBTOON for this ARC!
Read Playmaker if you love
🔹Sports Romance
🔹Best Friend’s Little Sister
🔹Dual POV
🔹Friends with benefits
🔹Childhood Friends
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I adored this book from beginning to end, it had me giggling kicking my feet and crying in the same chapter. The chemistry between Maddie and Cameron was captivating, and I especially enjoyed the flashbacks to their younger years. The book struck a perfect balance between plot and spice, and the way the characters were written made it easy to fall in love with them. I also found myself falling in love with Deanna's writing, and thanks to Netgalley, I'm now eager to read her other books. Many thanks to Deanna Faison, Netgalley, and Wattpad WEEBTOON for this ARC!
Read Playmaker if you love
🔹Sports Romance
🔹Best Friend’s Little Sister
🔹Dual POV
🔹Friends with benefits
🔹Childhood Friends
September 12, 2024
I loved Playmaker! I didn't want to put it down, but you know, I do have children I have to keep alive as well.
I really liked Deanna Faison's writing style and how she builds the world of Playmaker. I could clearly envision each character and location in my head.
I don't think I've ever read a book from Wattpad WEBTOON, but I know what Wattpad is so I wasn't sure what to expect from this book in the beginning. I am happy that the plot was a good one, but this also had a healthy amount of spice.
I really liked that the author included flashbacks from the FMC and MMC past, as it allowed us to understand both characters more, and in turn allowed empathy and understanding.
If you enjoy a sports romance that also has the brothers best friend trope along with a dual POV and spice, you'll enjoy this book.
I really liked Deanna Faison's writing style and how she builds the world of Playmaker. I could clearly envision each character and location in my head.
I don't think I've ever read a book from Wattpad WEBTOON, but I know what Wattpad is so I wasn't sure what to expect from this book in the beginning. I am happy that the plot was a good one, but this also had a healthy amount of spice.
I really liked that the author included flashbacks from the FMC and MMC past, as it allowed us to understand both characters more, and in turn allowed empathy and understanding.
If you enjoy a sports romance that also has the brothers best friend trope along with a dual POV and spice, you'll enjoy this book.
July 29, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and WattPad for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Did this book feel like it was written by a college student? Yes. Did I still read it? Yes. I couldn’t out it down but at the same time the cringeworthy moments were every chapter it felt like. The repetition of how he is incapable of having a relationship became a bit annoying. I know it’s an ARC so formatting isn’t necessarily complete but there was no way to decipher the flashbacks from the present. Some of the line breaks were odd but it didn’t take away from the story.
Maddie and Cameron can’t keep their hands off each other after years of hiding their feelings for each other in this brother’s best friend, forbidden love, friends to lovers story. Cameron changed after his mom passed away from cancer. Maddie’s feelings for him have stayed through their years long silence. Will Cameron get over himself and confess his feelings to Maddie? Read and find out.
Did this book feel like it was written by a college student? Yes. Did I still read it? Yes. I couldn’t out it down but at the same time the cringeworthy moments were every chapter it felt like. The repetition of how he is incapable of having a relationship became a bit annoying. I know it’s an ARC so formatting isn’t necessarily complete but there was no way to decipher the flashbacks from the present. Some of the line breaks were odd but it didn’t take away from the story.
Maddie and Cameron can’t keep their hands off each other after years of hiding their feelings for each other in this brother’s best friend, forbidden love, friends to lovers story. Cameron changed after his mom passed away from cancer. Maddie’s feelings for him have stayed through their years long silence. Will Cameron get over himself and confess his feelings to Maddie? Read and find out.
October 23, 2024
Based on the spice alone I give this book a 5 but add in the heart warming plot and two main characters that were destined for each other and you have this fabulous 5 star book!
Cameron and Maddie haven’t talked in 6 years but being forced together again and they spark up a truce because once upon a time they used to be close but tragedy struck and broke the bond they once had. That bond now has morphed into something more but can they have forever or is it only a moment in time that they will be given.
Cameron and Maddie haven’t talked in 6 years but being forced together again and they spark up a truce because once upon a time they used to be close but tragedy struck and broke the bond they once had. That bond now has morphed into something more but can they have forever or is it only a moment in time that they will be given.
October 18, 2024
I wouldn't say that I was entirely impressed with this book. It read like a bad fanfiction with so many errors and very little plot besides a girl having a crush on her brothers best friend, and him feeling the same but expressing it by sleeping with any girl that moves, except her, until he does.
Thank you to Deanna Faison, Wattpad Webtoon Book Group, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
Thank you to Deanna Faison, Wattpad Webtoon Book Group, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
June 12, 2024
I received a copy of this for my honest review
When it comes to spice - this book has got it!
Our FMC is home for spring break, and so is her brother and his best friend. His best friend, our MMC, also being the first guy she has ever had a crush on, still has a crush on, but ever since he told her to leave him alone 6 years ago after his mom passed away, they barely speak. But something changes this spring break. She has always been the good girl, the one who would rather spend her time studying to become a doctor, or reading than partying, while he was always the bad boy screwing his way through his grief. One night when they are both at a party, the end up in a closet for blindfolded 7 minutes in heaven. They both realize who the other person is, but it doesn't stop them. In fact, it spurs them on. They both have wanted this, but have stopped themselves. But now, they opened the flood gates. They decide they want to "explore" this, but it has to be secret because they don't want to upset her brother. They don't know where this will lead, they both go to different schools, and he is working to fulfil his dream of getting drafted to the NFL, while she is studying to become an oncologist. Is this going to be too big of a secret? Or will their families disapprove?
When it comes to spice - this book has got it!
Our FMC is home for spring break, and so is her brother and his best friend. His best friend, our MMC, also being the first guy she has ever had a crush on, still has a crush on, but ever since he told her to leave him alone 6 years ago after his mom passed away, they barely speak. But something changes this spring break. She has always been the good girl, the one who would rather spend her time studying to become a doctor, or reading than partying, while he was always the bad boy screwing his way through his grief. One night when they are both at a party, the end up in a closet for blindfolded 7 minutes in heaven. They both realize who the other person is, but it doesn't stop them. In fact, it spurs them on. They both have wanted this, but have stopped themselves. But now, they opened the flood gates. They decide they want to "explore" this, but it has to be secret because they don't want to upset her brother. They don't know where this will lead, they both go to different schools, and he is working to fulfil his dream of getting drafted to the NFL, while she is studying to become an oncologist. Is this going to be too big of a secret? Or will their families disapprove?
December 28, 2024
Looking for a spicy brother’s best friend romance that will steal your heart? Look no further 😌
Read this book if you love…
♡︎ Brothers best friend
♡︎ Childhood friends to frenemies
♡︎ friends with benefits // secret relationship
♡︎ reformed player x virgin
Playmaker is a fun, charming yet heartfelt read that blends sizzling chemistry with emotional depth. I was completely hooked and didn’t want to stop reading. I loved the swoon worthy (and HAWT) moments, but the emotional complexity of the relationship is what killed me!
Cameron is grieving the loss of his mother, and he’s always been out of reach to Maddie. Behind Cameron’s cocky & player persona, he is just a sad, broken boy. As their relationship developed, their vulnerability towards each other increased and it was so good 😭 Choosing to love someone even through the bad times can be tough but honestly that’s just real love ❤️🩹 The romance felt real and it made me SWEATTTT (the first kiss & family dinner scene just 🤭👌🏻)
Childhood friends is one of my favourite tropes so I loved the past timeline chapters! It added so much layers and depth to their relationship. Books with letters will always wreck me 💔
Such a good debut! I highly recommend this to book lovers who adore Hannah grace!
Read this book if you love…
♡︎ Brothers best friend
♡︎ Childhood friends to frenemies
♡︎ friends with benefits // secret relationship
♡︎ reformed player x virgin
Playmaker is a fun, charming yet heartfelt read that blends sizzling chemistry with emotional depth. I was completely hooked and didn’t want to stop reading. I loved the swoon worthy (and HAWT) moments, but the emotional complexity of the relationship is what killed me!
Cameron is grieving the loss of his mother, and he’s always been out of reach to Maddie. Behind Cameron’s cocky & player persona, he is just a sad, broken boy. As their relationship developed, their vulnerability towards each other increased and it was so good 😭 Choosing to love someone even through the bad times can be tough but honestly that’s just real love ❤️🩹 The romance felt real and it made me SWEATTTT (the first kiss & family dinner scene just 🤭👌🏻)
Childhood friends is one of my favourite tropes so I loved the past timeline chapters! It added so much layers and depth to their relationship. Books with letters will always wreck me 💔
Such a good debut! I highly recommend this to book lovers who adore Hannah grace!
September 27, 2024
please note that the trigger warnings and topes/themes may contain spoilers
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: HFN
POV: dual 1st person
spice: a few open-door spicy scenes
TWs: mild bullying, cancer, cheating, death of a parent, emotional abuse, manipulation
Kinky Content: boob job, car sex, cumming in pants, eyes on me, finger licking good, fingering, grinding, hair pulling, manhandling, mirror sex, nipple play, oral, outdoor play, praise, public play, shower sex, virgin
standalone: standalone
final thoughts: this was a cute story. There was a good amount of angst, secret relationships, hidden secrets, grief, and pining which made the story interesting and had me needing to know what happens next. Honestly it lost some stars for the first half of the book having open door scenes between the MMC and other characters- I hatedddd it. I’m okay with the reformed playboy trope but I don’t like reading open door scenes where both MCs aren’t involved.
read this book if you love
😬 angst
😆 banter
👦 brother’s best friend
💞 childhood crush
🏫 college setting
🤩 curvy FMC
📅 dual timeline
😳 forbidden lovers
🏝️ forced proximity
👨👩👧👦 found family
🤜 friends-to-frenemies-to-lovers
🛁 he washes her
🤫 hidden secrets
🧠 “it’s always been you”
🛏️ “it’s just a fling”
💞 mutual pining
😎 reformed bad boy
🤐 secret relationship
👦 she falls first, he falls harder
🏈 sports romance (football)
💔 third act breakup
💳 virgin
👕 wearing his clothes scene
👕 wearing his jersey scene
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: HFN
POV: dual 1st person
spice: a few open-door spicy scenes
TWs: mild bullying, cancer, cheating, death of a parent, emotional abuse, manipulation
Kinky Content: boob job, car sex, cumming in pants, eyes on me, finger licking good, fingering, grinding, hair pulling, manhandling, mirror sex, nipple play, oral, outdoor play, praise, public play, shower sex, virgin
standalone: standalone
final thoughts: this was a cute story. There was a good amount of angst, secret relationships, hidden secrets, grief, and pining which made the story interesting and had me needing to know what happens next. Honestly it lost some stars for the first half of the book having open door scenes between the MMC and other characters- I hatedddd it. I’m okay with the reformed playboy trope but I don’t like reading open door scenes where both MCs aren’t involved.
read this book if you love
😬 angst
😆 banter
👦 brother’s best friend
💞 childhood crush
🏫 college setting
🤩 curvy FMC
📅 dual timeline
😳 forbidden lovers
🏝️ forced proximity
👨👩👧👦 found family
🤜 friends-to-frenemies-to-lovers
🛁 he washes her
🤫 hidden secrets
🧠 “it’s always been you”
🛏️ “it’s just a fling”
💞 mutual pining
😎 reformed bad boy
🤐 secret relationship
👦 she falls first, he falls harder
🏈 sports romance (football)
💔 third act breakup
💳 virgin
👕 wearing his clothes scene
👕 wearing his jersey scene
August 31, 2024
***ARC REVIEW***
This was such a fun and quick book to read. I love sports romance so I devoured this book. The characters were great and loved the development of them. The chemistry between Cameron and Maddie was very strong. I loved that they got a second chance to be together. However I did feel like the plot got lost in the second half of the book. I love a spicy book but sometimes it felt like that’s all that was happening. The flashbacks started to get confusing because it would just go right back into the present. I caught myself having to reread parts to figure out if it was the past or present happening. I also wish there was an epilogue so that we could see how their relationship worked after spring break. Overall I still enjoyed this book and recommend if you want a quick sports romance book.
Thank you Netgalley and Wattpad WEBTOON for letting me read this arc 🫶🏻
This was such a fun and quick book to read. I love sports romance so I devoured this book. The characters were great and loved the development of them. The chemistry between Cameron and Maddie was very strong. I loved that they got a second chance to be together. However I did feel like the plot got lost in the second half of the book. I love a spicy book but sometimes it felt like that’s all that was happening. The flashbacks started to get confusing because it would just go right back into the present. I caught myself having to reread parts to figure out if it was the past or present happening. I also wish there was an epilogue so that we could see how their relationship worked after spring break. Overall I still enjoyed this book and recommend if you want a quick sports romance book.
Thank you Netgalley and Wattpad WEBTOON for letting me read this arc 🫶🏻
July 19, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Synopsis:
Playmaker follows Maddie and Cameron as they dive into a friends-with-benefits arrangement during a spring break, only to find themselves falling for each other. As their romance heats up, they must navigate secrets, overprotective siblings, and the realities of their changing feelings, setting the stage for life-changing decisions and unexpected love.
Thoughts:
I thoroughly enjoyed Playmaker and ended up binge-reading it. It's a delightful, easy read, and I absolutely adore Maddie and Cam. Their chemistry is palpable, and I found it compelling to watch Cam come to terms with his feelings. If you're a fan of spicy sports romances, I highly recommend it!
Thank you Deanna Faison, Net Galley, and Wattpad Webtoon Book Group for the ARC.
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Synopsis:
Playmaker follows Maddie and Cameron as they dive into a friends-with-benefits arrangement during a spring break, only to find themselves falling for each other. As their romance heats up, they must navigate secrets, overprotective siblings, and the realities of their changing feelings, setting the stage for life-changing decisions and unexpected love.
Thoughts:
I thoroughly enjoyed Playmaker and ended up binge-reading it. It's a delightful, easy read, and I absolutely adore Maddie and Cam. Their chemistry is palpable, and I found it compelling to watch Cam come to terms with his feelings. If you're a fan of spicy sports romances, I highly recommend it!
Thank you Deanna Faison, Net Galley, and Wattpad Webtoon Book Group for the ARC.
June 12, 2024
I was fortunate to get a free DRC of this on Net Galley!
The Summer I Turned Pretty meets Ice Breaker ❤️🥵
When I saw that this was a brother's best friend and sport romance, I was so excited.
Immediately off the bat, Cam was giving Conrad from the Summer I Turned Pretty vibes. Throughout the book, I found many parallels between the two. The love story was sweet but definitely had the spice that you crave. I absolutely devoured this book and will recommend it to my friends!!
The Summer I Turned Pretty meets Ice Breaker ❤️🥵
When I saw that this was a brother's best friend and sport romance, I was so excited.
Immediately off the bat, Cam was giving Conrad from the Summer I Turned Pretty vibes. Throughout the book, I found many parallels between the two. The love story was sweet but definitely had the spice that you crave. I absolutely devoured this book and will recommend it to my friends!!
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June 18, 2024Everyone SHUT UP!!! I’m reading my romance book of the month (over quota this month due to extraneous circumstances)!!!!!!
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