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Pride and Pranks #2
Double or Nothing
My best friend's older brother is back in town. Do I care? Not one bit. Logan may have been my childhood crush, but I've always been little Tessa to him. Not to mention, he's turned into a shallow flirt, and I'm not looking to get played again. What's the problem, you ask? (Besides all the flirting.) Thanks to a scheming mutual friend, Logan and I find ourselves embroiled in a bet of absurd proportions. Now, instead of ignoring Logan and keeping my heart safely locked away, we have a date every Saturday night and a kiss looming on the horizon. And the line between us is getting...muddy. As long as Logan stays the shallow flirt, I'll be fine. My heart is safe from the player. It's the man underneath giving me a run for my money.
Audio CD
First published April 8, 2022
About the author
Cindy Steel
12 books2,289 followersCindy Steel was raised on a dairy farm in Idaho. She grew up singing Garth Brooks and Reba McEntire songs at the top of her lungs and learning to solve all of life’s problems while milking cows and driving tractors—rewriting happy endings every time. She met and married a handsome Idaho boy and is the proud mother of two wild and sweet twin boys. Which means she is also now a collector of bugs, sticks, rocks, and slobbery kisses. She loves making breakfast, baking, photography, reading a good book, and staying up way past her bedtime to craft stories that will hopefully make you smile.
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December 10, 2022
Double or Nothing (Pride and Pranks #4) by Cindy Steel
Narrated by Stacey Glemboski and David Bendena
Twenty four year old Tessa grew up spending most of her free time at the home of her best friend Kelsey. The entire world seemed aware that Tessa had a crush on Kelsey's older brother Logan since she was eight years old. Tessa even wrote a love note to him, promising to marry him if only he'd ask. Ugh, she still gets teased about her childhood crush. But so much time has passed. Tessa moved on, found love, lost love, and is just trying to heal and never get attached again. She's back home now, living with her parents again, ready to work as a physical therapist at the clinic her brother is having built.
Twenty nine year old Logan was the big brother, still is the big brother. He may have enjoyed being crushed on more than he let on. Growing up he'd always been popular and was used to others wanting to be around him. He's back in town again, leading a crew that is building the new physical therapy building. He has a reputation for loving them and leaving them with a week per woman being the average.
Their friend Jake has a proposition. He knows what both Tessa and Logan need and he's a master planner and schemer. There is a huge payoff if Tessa and Logan can have a date once a week, holding hands as often as possible is mandatory, and NOT fall in love. The game is on and it's sweet and cute. Tessa and Logan each have their own narrators for the audiobook and that adds some specialness to the story. I finished this one with a big smile on my face but worried about our sweet Jake.
I'd already listened to one other book in the Pride and Pranks series, That Fine Line, and it is listed as #2. Double or Nothing is listed as #4. As someone who almost always reads/listens to a series in order, from the two books I've already tried, you lose nothing by reading these books out of their numbered order. Characters overlap but at no time did I feel like I was missing anything. The characters are one big group of family and friends and silly as some of the characters can be, this world is where I want to come to leave feeling good about life. Despite the heartache and super angst in the stories, so far love and friendship conquers all.
Pub November 15th 2022
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this ARC.
Narrated by Stacey Glemboski and David Bendena
Twenty four year old Tessa grew up spending most of her free time at the home of her best friend Kelsey. The entire world seemed aware that Tessa had a crush on Kelsey's older brother Logan since she was eight years old. Tessa even wrote a love note to him, promising to marry him if only he'd ask. Ugh, she still gets teased about her childhood crush. But so much time has passed. Tessa moved on, found love, lost love, and is just trying to heal and never get attached again. She's back home now, living with her parents again, ready to work as a physical therapist at the clinic her brother is having built.
Twenty nine year old Logan was the big brother, still is the big brother. He may have enjoyed being crushed on more than he let on. Growing up he'd always been popular and was used to others wanting to be around him. He's back in town again, leading a crew that is building the new physical therapy building. He has a reputation for loving them and leaving them with a week per woman being the average.
Their friend Jake has a proposition. He knows what both Tessa and Logan need and he's a master planner and schemer. There is a huge payoff if Tessa and Logan can have a date once a week, holding hands as often as possible is mandatory, and NOT fall in love. The game is on and it's sweet and cute. Tessa and Logan each have their own narrators for the audiobook and that adds some specialness to the story. I finished this one with a big smile on my face but worried about our sweet Jake.
I'd already listened to one other book in the Pride and Pranks series, That Fine Line, and it is listed as #2. Double or Nothing is listed as #4. As someone who almost always reads/listens to a series in order, from the two books I've already tried, you lose nothing by reading these books out of their numbered order. Characters overlap but at no time did I feel like I was missing anything. The characters are one big group of family and friends and silly as some of the characters can be, this world is where I want to come to leave feeling good about life. Despite the heartache and super angst in the stories, so far love and friendship conquers all.
Pub November 15th 2022
Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for this ARC.
December 14, 2022
CAAAAUUUUUTTTTTEEEEE! Lovedy love love!! It's like being wrapped in my blankie while bacon is being smoked over the fire or sand between my toes or new baby smell delightfulness.
Book 2 in the Pride and Pranks series ~ fine as a standalone.
Featuring ~ dual 1st person POV, childhood crush, best friend's brother, sister's best friend, boss's sister, small town, farm life, slow burn, no steamage, sweet, fun
Tessa & Logan
I really enjoyed this one so much! I can't possibly list everything I loved because I would essentially be giving the whole book away. They were the most adorable couple ever. Fun banter, fun dates, all around FUN! And that epilogue, I can't take it!
Delightful supporting characters, especially Jake. He came up with some fun dates for them to go on, so I bet his book will be just as delightful.
Narrated by Stacey Glemboski and David Bendena for 10 hours and 32 minutes. Stacey did a wonderful job, even her male voices. David was fine, as well, but he sounded a bit older than I think he should.
*Thanks to Cindy Steel, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for my audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Book 2 in the Pride and Pranks series ~ fine as a standalone.
Featuring ~ dual 1st person POV, childhood crush, best friend's brother, sister's best friend, boss's sister, small town, farm life, slow burn, no steamage, sweet, fun
Tessa & Logan
I really enjoyed this one so much! I can't possibly list everything I loved because I would essentially be giving the whole book away. They were the most adorable couple ever. Fun banter, fun dates, all around FUN! And that epilogue, I can't take it!
Delightful supporting characters, especially Jake. He came up with some fun dates for them to go on, so I bet his book will be just as delightful.
Narrated by Stacey Glemboski and David Bendena for 10 hours and 32 minutes. Stacey did a wonderful job, even her male voices. David was fine, as well, but he sounded a bit older than I think he should.
*Thanks to Cindy Steel, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for my audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
January 24, 2023
This book was a silly rom com that may have been unrealistic at times but sill a fun journey. Here are some of my favorite things in this book:
✔️ dared to date for the summer
✔️ childhood crush
✔️ best friend's older brother
✔️ funny/cute period scene
✔️ outdoor dates
This is a solid read that I feel a lot of Rom com lovers will enjoy because it's different than your normal read!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an ALC in exchange for my honest thoughts!
✔️ dared to date for the summer
✔️ childhood crush
✔️ best friend's older brother
✔️ funny/cute period scene
✔️ outdoor dates
This is a solid read that I feel a lot of Rom com lovers will enjoy because it's different than your normal read!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an ALC in exchange for my honest thoughts!
May 21, 2022
Cindy Steel constructed the story of my dreams with this one. A must read simply for the sizzling mud scenes!
From a young age Tessa has had a humiliating crush on Logan, the older brother of her best friend. Now the two are coincidentally back in the small town of Eguene, and thanks to a mischievous friend with a goofy matchmaking bet, their summer together is about to get more cozy.
Logan had such an unapologetic confidence about him that I instantly found so charming. He was a smooth-talking tease! Having her heart broken in the past by a man of his type, Tessa is adamant her desire for Logan has vanished, promising to never put herself through another similar situation.
As the two are forced through various adventurous dates, the banter combined with the goal of not falling in love created the most glorious, heart-stopping tension. My review simply cannot do this book justice. I loved everything about it!
From a young age Tessa has had a humiliating crush on Logan, the older brother of her best friend. Now the two are coincidentally back in the small town of Eguene, and thanks to a mischievous friend with a goofy matchmaking bet, their summer together is about to get more cozy.
Logan had such an unapologetic confidence about him that I instantly found so charming. He was a smooth-talking tease! Having her heart broken in the past by a man of his type, Tessa is adamant her desire for Logan has vanished, promising to never put herself through another similar situation.
As the two are forced through various adventurous dates, the banter combined with the goal of not falling in love created the most glorious, heart-stopping tension. My review simply cannot do this book justice. I loved everything about it!
Read
June 21, 2025This was a fun listen.
June 7, 2022
I'm in love with Cindy Steel.
I mean its purely platonic, we are both happily married BUT Cindy Steel writes these perfectly lovely rom coms set in Idaho that make me crave farm fields, the great outdoors, men in baseball caps and impromptu make-outs with all the chemistry you ask for in a "sweet" romance.
I think sweet romantic comedies are the genre i'm most picky about...theres a fine line for me between having enough physical chemistry, and not being too fluffy or cheesy. Of the two books i've read from Cindy she hits it out of the park and this one is my favorite thus far.
This story is about an unrequited childhood crush with a playboy and a good girl all twisted up in one big time wager. I loved all the forced dates, the humor, the banter, the heartfelt connection, and the parts where guards are dropped exposing sides of vulnerability.
Do you like country music? Delicious baked goods? Reformed players with inner hearts of gold?
If you like rom-coms, and want to read one set in Idaho...then pick up Double or Nothing...this is the summer romance you didn't know you needed.
You're welcome.
I mean its purely platonic, we are both happily married BUT Cindy Steel writes these perfectly lovely rom coms set in Idaho that make me crave farm fields, the great outdoors, men in baseball caps and impromptu make-outs with all the chemistry you ask for in a "sweet" romance.
I think sweet romantic comedies are the genre i'm most picky about...theres a fine line for me between having enough physical chemistry, and not being too fluffy or cheesy. Of the two books i've read from Cindy she hits it out of the park and this one is my favorite thus far.
This story is about an unrequited childhood crush with a playboy and a good girl all twisted up in one big time wager. I loved all the forced dates, the humor, the banter, the heartfelt connection, and the parts where guards are dropped exposing sides of vulnerability.
Do you like country music? Delicious baked goods? Reformed players with inner hearts of gold?
If you like rom-coms, and want to read one set in Idaho...then pick up Double or Nothing...this is the summer romance you didn't know you needed.
You're welcome.
April 12, 2022
I read this in one sitting because I was that enthralled and HAD to know what happened. Cindy Steel hit me in all the feels and made me lol, swoon, and just grin so hard at some of the moments in this book. She's quickly become a must-read author for me.
March 31, 2022
Do you want to read happiness? Do you want to nonstop smile? This book is just so good! A huge mood boost. I couldn’t stop reading and smiling as I did so.
I love that Cindy Steel takes you into Idaho farm country, with great friends, the perfect humor that is not mean, and makes you contemplate moving. I love the friends. I love the connected families and hard work. I love feeling like I’m there and loving it.
This book was contemporary humor perfection, with a little seriousness slipped in to make the characters more lovable and relatable. All the stars for this one!
My favorite parts: the orchard, cold night, fruit stand, the ditch 🔥, the coupon at the end. Trying not to give anything away with those favorites.
Content: kissing, but nothing further
I love that Cindy Steel takes you into Idaho farm country, with great friends, the perfect humor that is not mean, and makes you contemplate moving. I love the friends. I love the connected families and hard work. I love feeling like I’m there and loving it.
This book was contemporary humor perfection, with a little seriousness slipped in to make the characters more lovable and relatable. All the stars for this one!
My favorite parts: the orchard, cold night, fruit stand, the ditch 🔥, the coupon at the end. Trying not to give anything away with those favorites.
Content: kissing, but nothing further
August 12, 2024
She fell first, he fell ten times harder 😭😭😭
July 7, 2022
So much to love in this sweet contemporary old crush/forced proximity/enemies to lovers romance!
Tessa and Logan have chemistry and everyone can see it but them...including their friend Jake, who is so sure they will fall in love with each other that he proposes a bet they cannot refuse. They just have to go out on a least one date a week and manage to NOT fall in love with each other by the end of summer.
Loved the playful, flirty parts (the mud fight! the ditch! the orchard!) as well as when they let their guard down and let their vulnerabilities show.
I have read and loved all of Cindy Steel's books and this was certainly no exception! A must-read for anyone who loves sweet, contemporary romance!
CW: Mild swearing
Tessa and Logan have chemistry and everyone can see it but them...including their friend Jake, who is so sure they will fall in love with each other that he proposes a bet they cannot refuse. They just have to go out on a least one date a week and manage to NOT fall in love with each other by the end of summer.
Loved the playful, flirty parts (the mud fight! the ditch! the orchard!) as well as when they let their guard down and let their vulnerabilities show.
I have read and loved all of Cindy Steel's books and this was certainly no exception! A must-read for anyone who loves sweet, contemporary romance!
CW: Mild swearing
April 10, 2022
4.5
Another fun installment in the Pride and Pranks series! This has a few of my favorite tropes: Old Crush, Enemies to Lovers and Forced Proximity aka they have to date and NOT fall in love to win a bet!
Tessa is a super fun character, I enjoyed her witty personality. Logan was pretty great too, even when he messes up you still can't help but root for them to lose the bet and admit their feelings. This is the kind of story that sucks you in and keeps you turning the pages. Light and funny, with depth and a sweet romance. Tessa and Logan had good chemistry! The supporting cast was fun and I'm excited to get Jakes story!
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing
Language: Mild
Violence: None
Another fun installment in the Pride and Pranks series! This has a few of my favorite tropes: Old Crush, Enemies to Lovers and Forced Proximity aka they have to date and NOT fall in love to win a bet!
Tessa is a super fun character, I enjoyed her witty personality. Logan was pretty great too, even when he messes up you still can't help but root for them to lose the bet and admit their feelings. This is the kind of story that sucks you in and keeps you turning the pages. Light and funny, with depth and a sweet romance. Tessa and Logan had good chemistry! The supporting cast was fun and I'm excited to get Jakes story!
Content Rated PG
Romance: Kissing
Language: Mild
Violence: None
April 9, 2022
This. This is why I love to read. Guys, I can’t even tell you how much I loved this book. I knew it would be good because it’s Cindy and I know her books are full of cute banter, Idaho farms, and hilarious moments. But I wasn’t expecting Double or Nothing to be THAT good! It made me ridiculously giddy and so happy that I could cry. Could be that I’m emotional today but still. It’s SO GOOD!
Tessa was perfect and I loved her personality. Like…her internal dialogue was amazing and I now want to be her BFF along with Kelsey.
Almost everyone I’ve spoken to about this book has said, “freaking Jake 😆”. I now understand what the hype is about. 😂😂😂 He was an amazing addition. Like…so good! And I like how Jake was able to get the ball rolling and become a confidant for Logan and Tessa. Super stoked Jake is getting his own story.
I didn’t know whether I would like Logan because of his “player” attitude. Now, I LOVE him and loved the fun/flirty banter between Tessa and Logan. SOO GOOD!! Do yourself a favor and go read this one!
Favorite scenes:
Grocery Store 😉
Fugitive
Any and all mud scenes
Dancing in the rain
The Table
Kelsey’s relationship with Tess
The sunrise (that whole scene!)
Okay, so practically the whole book. 😆🙈😅
Seriously, everyone needs to read this if you love romantic comedies.
Tessa was perfect and I loved her personality. Like…her internal dialogue was amazing and I now want to be her BFF along with Kelsey.
Almost everyone I’ve spoken to about this book has said, “freaking Jake 😆”. I now understand what the hype is about. 😂😂😂 He was an amazing addition. Like…so good! And I like how Jake was able to get the ball rolling and become a confidant for Logan and Tessa. Super stoked Jake is getting his own story.
I didn’t know whether I would like Logan because of his “player” attitude. Now, I LOVE him and loved the fun/flirty banter between Tessa and Logan. SOO GOOD!! Do yourself a favor and go read this one!
Favorite scenes:
Grocery Store 😉
Fugitive
Any and all mud scenes
Dancing in the rain
The Table
Kelsey’s relationship with Tess
The sunrise (that whole scene!)
Okay, so practically the whole book. 😆🙈😅
Seriously, everyone needs to read this if you love romantic comedies.
Did Not Finish
February 6, 2023DNF at 65%. I tried continuing to read this... started speeding through, but I'm just done.
This has dual POV. She's been crushing on him her whole life. When she's 14 and he's 18, they have an embarrassing interaction and he starts calling her "jailbait". Which is a little creepy and "their special joke".
But, they're now 24/29 and she's still interested and (in his mind) he's indifferent to her, though he's attracted. But (once again, in his POV), he's a player and he dates around. He asks her out for a dare. She shoots him down (while mooning over him in her head, so it's not super satisfying). They end up dating as a dare... with him still indifferent and her still mooning.
Now, there is probably a way to make this work... but for me, it would only be if he fell first. But I've reached the point where she admits to the friend who dared them that she's interested. And that friend says, "then start trying to make something happen". And it sucks. It's just her wanting him and him resisting.
Both of them had negative motivation in the beginning... and she's starting to think "maybe something could work out". And it's just wearing. It's not light and fun. It's exhausting.
I just don't feel the attraction. He hasn't revealed much, even in his own head/POV, so I'm not cool with him.
This has dual POV. She's been crushing on him her whole life. When she's 14 and he's 18, they have an embarrassing interaction and he starts calling her "jailbait". Which is a little creepy and "their special joke".
But, they're now 24/29 and she's still interested and (in his mind) he's indifferent to her, though he's attracted. But (once again, in his POV), he's a player and he dates around. He asks her out for a dare. She shoots him down (while mooning over him in her head, so it's not super satisfying). They end up dating as a dare... with him still indifferent and her still mooning.
Now, there is probably a way to make this work... but for me, it would only be if he fell first. But I've reached the point where she admits to the friend who dared them that she's interested. And that friend says, "then start trying to make something happen". And it sucks. It's just her wanting him and him resisting.
Both of them had negative motivation in the beginning... and she's starting to think "maybe something could work out". And it's just wearing. It's not light and fun. It's exhausting.
I just don't feel the attraction. He hasn't revealed much, even in his own head/POV, so I'm not cool with him.
March 25, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
Didn’t enjoy this one as much as That Fine Line.
I spent quite some time disliking the MMC, Logan.
There were some cute scenes throughout the book.
I wasn’t too keen on the running “jailbait” nickname.
Didn’t enjoy this one as much as That Fine Line.
I spent quite some time disliking the MMC, Logan.
There were some cute scenes throughout the book.
I wasn’t too keen on the running “jailbait” nickname.
April 1, 2022
Cindy writes sweet, swoony romances that are delightfully fun, and laugh out loud hilarious. For me, I find her scenes totally relatable. From bonfires, homemade cooking, hiking, camping...and though my house wasn't actually in the country, I found myself drawn there while growing up. Reading her books give me ALL the small town country feels.
Logan and Tessa are so adorable. The banter, flirting, backfire all perfect. But what did you expect after reading That Fine Line? (If you haven't read that one, do so now please). Tessa and Logan's chemistry is off the charts. The kisses though 😍 so so good!!
Oh man freaking Jake! He is one of my favorite parts! I loved him weaseling in making plans for Tessa and Logan. Smart sneaky cowboy. I LOVE the dates. Mud. Fugitive. The ditch. The Orchard. White pants😆 (been there!) read it to find out!
Bonus! The snippets of Cade and Kelsey melted my heart. I love them so so much. But now I love Tessa and Logan too. I couldn't stop smiling!
So blessed to have this early copy Cindy! Thank you for a wonderful story yet again!
I hope freaking Jake gets his story!😆
Double or Nothing out April 8th
Available on Kindle Unlimited
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4.5stars!
Logan and Tessa are so adorable. The banter, flirting, backfire all perfect. But what did you expect after reading That Fine Line? (If you haven't read that one, do so now please). Tessa and Logan's chemistry is off the charts. The kisses though 😍 so so good!!
Oh man freaking Jake! He is one of my favorite parts! I loved him weaseling in making plans for Tessa and Logan. Smart sneaky cowboy. I LOVE the dates. Mud. Fugitive. The ditch. The Orchard. White pants😆 (been there!) read it to find out!
Bonus! The snippets of Cade and Kelsey melted my heart. I love them so so much. But now I love Tessa and Logan too. I couldn't stop smiling!
So blessed to have this early copy Cindy! Thank you for a wonderful story yet again!
I hope freaking Jake gets his story!😆
Double or Nothing out April 8th
Available on Kindle Unlimited
#aprilbooks #aprilrelease #aprilfools #pranks #prideandpranks #bookmarkingitapril2022 #doubleornothing #cindysteel #thatfineline #lovestories #bookpictures #booksinthecountry #countryliving #bookrelease #newrelease #tbrpile #arcreads #launchteam #friendstolovers #bettingonlove #mudfights #sweetromance #romcombooks #romance #romcom #kindle #kindleunlimited #fridayfavorite
4.5stars!
May 2, 2022
Double or Nothing by Cindy Steele
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
________________________________________________
Story Notes
Y’all….I hurt myself reading this book. I actually got a cramp from trying to laugh quietly while reading it at work. All I wanted to do was cackle-laugh out loud and instead resorted to trying to laugh quietly into my sweater and thus gave myself a stomach cramp, lol! Gosh, this book was so much fun to read. The snarky banter, the inside jokes, the adorable characters and the swoony kisses are the stuff my reading dreams are made of!! And Cindy wove some deep conversations in between all the fun and that just guaranteed that this is one of my most favorite books ever. You better have this book on your TBR if you haven’t already got it in your life. I promise it will be one of the best books you’ll read and you might just get your own stomach cramp too…no promise on that though! All I gotta say after reading it is, “Freaking Jake” was right!!
Favorite Things:
Jailbait nickname and it’s reason
The construction crew trying to ask Tessa out
The diary entries
The bet
Freaking Jake
The rules for not falling in love
The fruit stand
Desserts
The hilarious banter between everyone
Crashing into Camille
The ditch kiss
Operation Logan Crack
Dancing in the “Rain”
Pete
The moose
The Campout/hiking
Losing the bet
The coupon
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Cindy Steele. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and opinions herein are entirely my own.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
________________________________________________
Story Notes
Y’all….I hurt myself reading this book. I actually got a cramp from trying to laugh quietly while reading it at work. All I wanted to do was cackle-laugh out loud and instead resorted to trying to laugh quietly into my sweater and thus gave myself a stomach cramp, lol! Gosh, this book was so much fun to read. The snarky banter, the inside jokes, the adorable characters and the swoony kisses are the stuff my reading dreams are made of!! And Cindy wove some deep conversations in between all the fun and that just guaranteed that this is one of my most favorite books ever. You better have this book on your TBR if you haven’t already got it in your life. I promise it will be one of the best books you’ll read and you might just get your own stomach cramp too…no promise on that though! All I gotta say after reading it is, “Freaking Jake” was right!!
Favorite Things:
Jailbait nickname and it’s reason
The construction crew trying to ask Tessa out
The diary entries
The bet
Freaking Jake
The rules for not falling in love
The fruit stand
Desserts
The hilarious banter between everyone
Crashing into Camille
The ditch kiss
Operation Logan Crack
Dancing in the “Rain”
Pete
The moose
The Campout/hiking
Losing the bet
The coupon
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Cindy Steele. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and opinions herein are entirely my own.
August 22, 2025
This is book two and Im so glad it was better than book one. This can be read as a standalone, there is aslight age gap, best friends brother, friends to lovers, dual POV. The FMC has been in love with the FMC all her life so when she agrees to date her childhood crush every Saturday for the rest of the summer she can't help but feel she's going to regret it especially since the MMC has grown from the boy she always wished to have to the man she could never see herself with (a player) after a heartbreak the FMC finds it hard to trust again but what she doesn't know is that the MMC is just as broken from his past and will do all he can to make sure he never gets hurt again even if that means pushing away the only woman he knows is worth taking a risk for.
September 13, 2026
5⭐️ - I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! I was smiling and giggling the whole time lol. My second Cindy Steel book and I am not disappointed. After meeting both Tessa and Logan in book 1, I was super excited about their story, especially since I really liked Tess as a side character. But I was shocked to love Logan equally in this story! I’m usually not the biggest fan of the whole best friend’s brother thing but this one was perfectly written! There was no weird situation due to the siblings or anything, it was really focused on the relationship. I also loved how realistic both main characters were, both in their thoughts and actions. For example they were both mad and just reacted like real people regarding the conflict at the end and not made up characters if that makes sense. There were so many funny scenes with awesome banter, and lots of inside jokes.
Now, I’ve never been to Idaho so I’m not familiar with how often one encounters wild animals there, but each book in this series has a crazy one. This time the scene involved moose though which was definitely less traumatic than the mountain lion haha!
Overall I am very happy with this one, and it made me love Jake even more too so I cannot wait to read book 3!!
Also: I love reading about Cindy Steel’s own experiences and what inspired certain scenes in her books at the end every time!!
Now, I’ve never been to Idaho so I’m not familiar with how often one encounters wild animals there, but each book in this series has a crazy one. This time the scene involved moose though which was definitely less traumatic than the mountain lion haha!
Overall I am very happy with this one, and it made me love Jake even more too so I cannot wait to read book 3!!
Also: I love reading about Cindy Steel’s own experiences and what inspired certain scenes in her books at the end every time!!
May 11, 2026
DOUBLE OR NOTHING by Cindy Steel ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 This is the definition of a Krispy Kreme read: pure enjoyment, light, happy, and goes down easy! I didn’t have to think to hard, laughed so many times, and didn’t want to put it down. I fell in love with the characters and was rooting for them from the start. Closed door romance but filled with a satisfying amount of angst and chemistry. If you’re in a slump and need a read you’ll have fun with, read this book!
Tessa and her childhood crush both end up back in their hometown for the summer. After getting reacquainted, the summer takes a turn neither of them expect.
Perfect if you like:
•Best friends brother.
•Small town romance.
•Fake dating.
•Laugh out loud moments.
•Childhood crush.
•Forced proximity.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️(just kisses)
Mood: 🍩🌮
Tessa and her childhood crush both end up back in their hometown for the summer. After getting reacquainted, the summer takes a turn neither of them expect.
Perfect if you like:
•Best friends brother.
•Small town romance.
•Fake dating.
•Laugh out loud moments.
•Childhood crush.
•Forced proximity.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️(just kisses)
Mood: 🍩🌮
April 20, 2022
This is my favorite kind of book! I loved the way the author wrote the comedy. It was so, so funny! I loved the characters. And the love story. It’s really the best! If you haven’t read That Fine Line, it’s okay. But you’re going to want to!
I was so glad to see that Tessa was getting her own story. And what a story it is. I loved that the reader is taken back 10 years to what happened between Logan and Tessa as teens. It’s so funny. I can’t tell you, you’re going to have to read it yourself. The meet cute when they are adults is the best! I love the flirting.
You’ve got to love Logan. I loved his nickname for Tessa, Jailbait. It made me laugh every time he used it. Their dates were fun. And he was the best guy, even though he tried hard not to be.
I’ve got to have Jake’s story! I kind of understand why he wants to bet his really expensive truck. But what’s up with him wanting to be a matchmaker. There’s got to be a story there.
You really need to read this one if you love rom-com books!
I was so glad to see that Tessa was getting her own story. And what a story it is. I loved that the reader is taken back 10 years to what happened between Logan and Tessa as teens. It’s so funny. I can’t tell you, you’re going to have to read it yourself. The meet cute when they are adults is the best! I love the flirting.
You’ve got to love Logan. I loved his nickname for Tessa, Jailbait. It made me laugh every time he used it. Their dates were fun. And he was the best guy, even though he tried hard not to be.
I’ve got to have Jake’s story! I kind of understand why he wants to bet his really expensive truck. But what’s up with him wanting to be a matchmaker. There’s got to be a story there.
You really need to read this one if you love rom-com books!
January 31, 2024
Honestly, I am such a huge fan of Cindy!! She is such a fun author that doesn’t have cursing or sex in her books! There is always fun banter and great storylines! I just have a blast with her stories!
With this book, the audio was AMAZING! I always love it when a male and female are the narrators! It makes it so much and engaging!
With this book, the audio was AMAZING! I always love it when a male and female are the narrators! It makes it so much and engaging!
April 7, 2022
LOVE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I just loved this book. Simple as that.
There’s fantastic banter and teasing. The passionate kisses hidden in the dark. Dancing in sprinklers and laying underneath the stars. a one tent & angry moose situation. Allllll the baked goods, sweet friends and more. I just couldn’t get enough of Logan and Tessa.
I adored both of them separate and together. Both are working through relationship trauma of the past and [thanks to Jake] are pushed into a forced proximity situation that allows them to face fears and stumble together. I loved the deep conversations and acknowledgement of choices inside and outside of their control.
The antics were humorous, and the quiet moments WERE SO SOFT. The amount of times I found myself all filled up with swoonyness because of the simple, yet intense moments Logan and Tessa shared. This author just has a way with words y’all. Highly recommend.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: make-outs
- Trigger/Content Warnings: past cheating recounted
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I just loved this book. Simple as that.
There’s fantastic banter and teasing. The passionate kisses hidden in the dark. Dancing in sprinklers and laying underneath the stars. a one tent & angry moose situation. Allllll the baked goods, sweet friends and more. I just couldn’t get enough of Logan and Tessa.
I adored both of them separate and together. Both are working through relationship trauma of the past and [thanks to Jake] are pushed into a forced proximity situation that allows them to face fears and stumble together. I loved the deep conversations and acknowledgement of choices inside and outside of their control.
The antics were humorous, and the quiet moments WERE SO SOFT. The amount of times I found myself all filled up with swoonyness because of the simple, yet intense moments Logan and Tessa shared. This author just has a way with words y’all. Highly recommend.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: make-outs
- Trigger/Content Warnings: past cheating recounted
May 28, 2024
So very cute and just plain fun! Loved the depth of characters and how the challenge broke down their walls for something real and authentic.
May 20, 2023
There are some books that just make you happy to read and when you finish you don't know which book to read next because you don't want the happy high to end...that was this book for me. I really enjoyed the second book in the Pride and Pranks series by Ms. Steel. The banter between ALL of the characters is probably my favorite part. The plot was unique twist on the fake relationship trope and the romance was extra swoony but I loved the way Ms. Steel doesn't cross any lines keeping this story nice and clean. I would recommend this book and any of Ms. Steel's stories as must read romcom!!
June 26, 2023
SO CUTE. I am kicking myself for taking so long to read this delightful romantic comedy. Full of sweet and funny moments, this best friends's brother romance is a good one! I loved the farm town setting, the weekly dates, and the friendships. The subplot of finding yourself and what you truly love to do was well done and refreshing. The romantic tension between Tessa and Logan was top notch. This is a good, quick listen on audio!
Thank you to Netgalley for my ALC of this book. All opinions here are my own.
Thank you to Netgalley for my ALC of this book. All opinions here are my own.
March 22, 2024
My uncontrollable giggling started with “the incident.” If you know you know. An absolute smash for me and one I will be rereading in the future. The depth Cindy weaves into hilarious situations is brilliance.
February 15, 2023
Double or Nothing
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Genre: Romance
Format: Audiobook
Date Published: 11/15/22
Author: Cindy Steel
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
GR: 4.36
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Dreamscape Media and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
My Thoughts: This is book number two in the Pride and Pranks series. I listened to the first one (That Fine Line) first and then this one. This one could be read as a standalone, while there is some character crossover, it would not be lost on the reader. Tessa grew up in this small town and always had a crush on her best friend’s brother, Logan. Tessa is back home trying to heal from the last heartbreak. Their friend, Jake, propositions them to spend the summer dating with a big prize at the end. They agree and the game starts. Will they fall in love? Or will they end up hating each other in the end and go back to their normal lives?
The story is narrated in a dual narration by both Tess and Logan, in their POV. Tessa is independent, fierce, strong, and loyal to a fault. Logan is compassionate, a heartbreaker, and once you get to know him, very kind and considerate. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and you just love them. I loved Jake too, as a supporting character, he brought laughter and compassion. The author’s writing style was complex, swoony, endearing, and keeps you invested for the whole story.
The narrators do an amazing job at voice variation and brings these characters off the page, immersing you into the story. I loved this series, it was fun, sweet, and endearing. I highly recommend picking up both audiobooks!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Genre: Romance
Format: Audiobook
Date Published: 11/15/22
Author: Cindy Steel
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
GR: 4.36
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Dreamscape Media and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
My Thoughts: This is book number two in the Pride and Pranks series. I listened to the first one (That Fine Line) first and then this one. This one could be read as a standalone, while there is some character crossover, it would not be lost on the reader. Tessa grew up in this small town and always had a crush on her best friend’s brother, Logan. Tessa is back home trying to heal from the last heartbreak. Their friend, Jake, propositions them to spend the summer dating with a big prize at the end. They agree and the game starts. Will they fall in love? Or will they end up hating each other in the end and go back to their normal lives?
The story is narrated in a dual narration by both Tess and Logan, in their POV. Tessa is independent, fierce, strong, and loyal to a fault. Logan is compassionate, a heartbreaker, and once you get to know him, very kind and considerate. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter, chemistry, and you just love them. I loved Jake too, as a supporting character, he brought laughter and compassion. The author’s writing style was complex, swoony, endearing, and keeps you invested for the whole story.
The narrators do an amazing job at voice variation and brings these characters off the page, immersing you into the story. I loved this series, it was fun, sweet, and endearing. I highly recommend picking up both audiobooks!
September 21, 2024
I have to confess, I was rather charmed.
When it comes to playboys/rakes, I tend to like them already redeemed or at least well on their way to getting there. Logan… isn’t there yet and isn’t even sure is he wants to get there. He’s a work in progress but it actually worked out pretty well. (Although a few parts bothered me.) Together, Tessa & Logan are a fireworks display. Best friend’s older brother is always interesting trope, haha. And don’t get me started on Jake and the bet! I desperately need his story next.
There were a few parts were the physical noticing and attraction was too heavy for my preference, but I adore the emotional journey of the story. My heart broke for Tessa & Logan individually, and I legit teared up when Logan had his emotional bro moments with his dad & Jake.
Dusty & Lucy’s cameos were icing on the cake! As my favourite Steel couple, I’m only sad they didn’t get more screen time!
When it comes to playboys/rakes, I tend to like them already redeemed or at least well on their way to getting there. Logan… isn’t there yet and isn’t even sure is he wants to get there. He’s a work in progress but it actually worked out pretty well. (Although a few parts bothered me.) Together, Tessa & Logan are a fireworks display. Best friend’s older brother is always interesting trope, haha. And don’t get me started on Jake and the bet! I desperately need his story next.
There were a few parts were the physical noticing and attraction was too heavy for my preference, but I adore the emotional journey of the story. My heart broke for Tessa & Logan individually, and I legit teared up when Logan had his emotional bro moments with his dad & Jake.
Dusty & Lucy’s cameos were icing on the cake! As my favourite Steel couple, I’m only sad they didn’t get more screen time!
January 18, 2025
Lighthearted funny & a great sequel to the first book 🛻
a fun fake dating theme based around a bit made on Tessa & Logan by their best friend Jake. feelings are then complicated by past histories and how their friendships overlap, which makes a really fun untangling of teenage crushes and adult feelings
I loved seeing Tessa's story and how she slowly opens up to Logan, and then on the flip-side seeing and hearing Logan's perspective of how his past shapes how he reacts to love.
there's a lot of internal conflict in this and the main issues revolve around a very realistic betrayal of broken trust & learning to move on after ex partners have treated you badly ❤️
it was also fun seeing how Cade and Kelsey's story progressed in the background of this book, it really tied the two together 🐎
a fun fake dating theme based around a bit made on Tessa & Logan by their best friend Jake. feelings are then complicated by past histories and how their friendships overlap, which makes a really fun untangling of teenage crushes and adult feelings
I loved seeing Tessa's story and how she slowly opens up to Logan, and then on the flip-side seeing and hearing Logan's perspective of how his past shapes how he reacts to love.
there's a lot of internal conflict in this and the main issues revolve around a very realistic betrayal of broken trust & learning to move on after ex partners have treated you badly ❤️
it was also fun seeing how Cade and Kelsey's story progressed in the background of this book, it really tied the two together 🐎
May 4, 2024
My love for these characters could not be more! I’m a huge Cindy Steel fan! She writes real characters with real flaws and real experiences then weaves in the swooniest slow burn love story! She doesn’t need to use bad language or explicit spicy scenes. Her story holds up without all that and I love all her books!
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