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The Bradford Boys #2
The Way We Play
He’s a grumpy, retired kicker who says he only breaks things. I’m a thirty-year-old virgin with something he can break (and I don’t mean my heart)…
How does one get to be a thirty-year-old virgin?
In my case, start with being risk-averse and cautious, focused on building your career, then inherit your 12-year-old, special-needs brother. Done!
Zane Bradford appeared at the perfect time.
He takes my brother to equine therapy, he gives me rides to work, and he rescues me when I collapse in the shower. (Yes, he saw me naked.)
He says he only breaks things, but I only see him fixing everything. Heck, his job is as a repair man.
This grumpy, angry god with lean muscles, silky dark hair, and ice blue eyes has taken himself out of the game.
But massage therapy is my job, and I’m ready to play.
Rachel Wells is ruining everything.
She walks into my workplace and argues with me, talks back, defends herself.
She gives me romance books to “improve my mood,” and insists on massage therapy to ease my pain.
Chronic pain isn’t my problem—she is, with her bright green eyes and sassy attitude.
Then she tells me she’s never been kissed. (What’s wrong with the men in Birmingham?)
The more she tempts me, the more I feel my resolve weakening.
She wants to play, but I’m not going to break.
(THE WAY WE PLAY is a small-town, grumpy-sunshine, sports romance with close proximity, enemies-to-lovers vibes, and a virgin FMC, and an over-protective alpha hero. No cheating. No cliffhanger. No third-act breakup.)
How does one get to be a thirty-year-old virgin?
In my case, start with being risk-averse and cautious, focused on building your career, then inherit your 12-year-old, special-needs brother. Done!
Zane Bradford appeared at the perfect time.
He takes my brother to equine therapy, he gives me rides to work, and he rescues me when I collapse in the shower. (Yes, he saw me naked.)
He says he only breaks things, but I only see him fixing everything. Heck, his job is as a repair man.
This grumpy, angry god with lean muscles, silky dark hair, and ice blue eyes has taken himself out of the game.
But massage therapy is my job, and I’m ready to play.
Rachel Wells is ruining everything.
She walks into my workplace and argues with me, talks back, defends herself.
She gives me romance books to “improve my mood,” and insists on massage therapy to ease my pain.
Chronic pain isn’t my problem—she is, with her bright green eyes and sassy attitude.
Then she tells me she’s never been kissed. (What’s wrong with the men in Birmingham?)
The more she tempts me, the more I feel my resolve weakening.
She wants to play, but I’m not going to break.
(THE WAY WE PLAY is a small-town, grumpy-sunshine, sports romance with close proximity, enemies-to-lovers vibes, and a virgin FMC, and an over-protective alpha hero. No cheating. No cliffhanger. No third-act breakup.)
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 7, 2024
1452 people are currently reading
9194 people want to read
About the author
Tia Louise
75 books7,223 followersTia Louise is the USA Today best-selling, award-winning author of spicy-sweet military romance, small town romance, single parent romance, and romantic suspense novels.
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✔️KEEP UP with all the latest SALES and NEW RELEASES by getting her weekly Newsletter (+ 3 FREE Bonus stories!) here: https://geni.us/TLMnews
✔️Get Sale/New Release TEXT Alerts by texting TIALOUISE to 855-902-6387 (*US only)
✔️FOLLOW HER on Social Media here:
Website: www.TiaLouise.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@thetialouise
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 569 reviews
January 14, 2025
This is the second book in the series, and oh boy, was I ready for Zane’s story. Let me tell you, the slow burn between Zane and Rachel was totally worth the wait. Zane definitely took his sweet time figuring things out, but once he did, he was all in. He’s a grumpy cinnamon roll who’s impossible not to love, especially with how sweet he was to Rachel and her little brother, Edward.
Oh, and the brothers text chain was absolute gold. I was cracking up every time it popped up 😂 Getting to see Dylan and Logan again was a total bonus, and the whole Bradford family stole my heart all over again. The way they welcome Rachel and Edward into their fold was so touching.
This story had me hooked from start to finish, and I loved every single moment.
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Small Town Romance
❤️🔥 Grumpy x Sunshine
❤️🔥 Football Romance
❤️🔥 Close Proximity
🚨🚨 TW: Anxiety, bullying, grief, death of parents, parental neglect
Oh, and the brothers text chain was absolute gold. I was cracking up every time it popped up 😂 Getting to see Dylan and Logan again was a total bonus, and the whole Bradford family stole my heart all over again. The way they welcome Rachel and Edward into their fold was so touching.
This story had me hooked from start to finish, and I loved every single moment.
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Small Town Romance
❤️🔥 Grumpy x Sunshine
❤️🔥 Football Romance
❤️🔥 Close Proximity
🚨🚨 TW: Anxiety, bullying, grief, death of parents, parental neglect
October 19, 2024
A sweet found family, grumpy sunshine, forced proximity romance. This was what I call "a comfort read" as the whole thing just made my heart warm and fuzzy.
Zane is the kinda grumpy that could be seen as a bit too much but as we unravel his guilt and pain, I can understand it. Whereas Rachel has so much heart and tries again and again to get through to him. She might normally just tell a guy like him to shove it, but he's so good with her brother and he's sexy as sin. They were both just such great people. All the side characters are supportive and loving. This was one big Found Family for Rachel and Eddie (Rachel's brother), and it made me so happy.
There's also some sweet yet spicy scenes with a lot of "teach me" moments. Rachel may be a virgin but she isn't shy when it's time to move things along with Zane, in fact, he's the one holding back a bit. Yet they move past it together.
I really enjoyed this one and I can't wait to read more of this family and this series.
Dual narrated by Marcio Catalano and Kristen Leigh and they did a wonderful job! The audio is available now!
4 stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: loss of parents, parental abandonment, sibling with special needs
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*
Zane is the kinda grumpy that could be seen as a bit too much but as we unravel his guilt and pain, I can understand it. Whereas Rachel has so much heart and tries again and again to get through to him. She might normally just tell a guy like him to shove it, but he's so good with her brother and he's sexy as sin. They were both just such great people. All the side characters are supportive and loving. This was one big Found Family for Rachel and Eddie (Rachel's brother), and it made me so happy.
There's also some sweet yet spicy scenes with a lot of "teach me" moments. Rachel may be a virgin but she isn't shy when it's time to move things along with Zane, in fact, he's the one holding back a bit. Yet they move past it together.
I really enjoyed this one and I can't wait to read more of this family and this series.
Dual narrated by Marcio Catalano and Kristen Leigh and they did a wonderful job! The audio is available now!
4 stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: loss of parents, parental abandonment, sibling with special needs
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title.*
January 11, 2025
My toxic trait is I will power through any story even if it’s more boring than golf.
This is the kind of book where you wonder what was even the point of writing it if you were going to say so little.
Nothing happens, no angst, no drama, no romance, no story, too many characters with all the exact same personalities.
And just long conversations about nothing. Like page after page of the guys doing a fucking sports podcast.
There should be a task force stopping white men from starting podcasts.
This is the kind of book where you wonder what was even the point of writing it if you were going to say so little.
Nothing happens, no angst, no drama, no romance, no story, too many characters with all the exact same personalities.
And just long conversations about nothing. Like page after page of the guys doing a fucking sports podcast.
There should be a task force stopping white men from starting podcasts.
October 3, 2024
I was intrigued and excited by a book about Rachel and Zane after reading book 1. There was clearly tension and chemistry between these two, and I was curious to see how everything would unravel. I was pleasantly surprised. I liked these characters a lot. They both had baggage and were still actively working through it. I was very impressed with Rachel. She was just SO strong. She was basically the parent for her special needs younger brother. Did she let that additional stress bring her down? No, no she did not. If anything, she wore it like an armor. She radiated sunshine and positivity. She could have been such a downer but she did what she could to make life the best it could be. Zane on the other hand just radiated GRUMP. Of course this was to mask the pain he was in. The pain for his career ending earlier than he thought. The pain for the accident that happened with his sister. He had the mindset that everything around him would break. Watching him unravel for Rachel was awesome. I did get a LITTLE frustrated with the back and forth- he would tease and be interested and then back off. I did understand his thought process though. These two had WONDERFUL chemistry. Their spicy scenes were spicy! Especially since Rachel's experience was beyond limited.
Rachel thinks she has finally found her place. She has a place to live. She has a good job. She has met a few friends. Her coworker is HOT. But then she has to unexpectedly get her younger brother because of an incident that happened at his school. Now she is making lemonade out of lemons. She is bringing Eddie (her brother) to work with him. She is trying to ignore the growing tension between her and Zane (the hot coworker). He is just so intriguing to her. He won't accept anyone's help but seems to be radiating that he needs something in his life. Rachel decides it is going to be her. She lives across the hall from him. There are only so many places he can go. But man is he hard to corner. Between leaving the room when she gets there or ignoring her offers for a massage what is she going to do? Keep trying that's what. Slowly but surely she whittles him down. He has started smirking more. He is hanging out with her brother and helping him. He has agreed to a massage which is when everything changes between them. It's clear he wants more and so does she. Little does he know she has no experience. But of course that doesn't deter him. Now they are explosive. They are experiencing time alone and it's amazing. She is falling hard for him. But his walls still seem to be up. Will she be able to help him through the darkness he can't seem to walk away from? Or will he give up before they have seen where this will go? Their relationship gets tested even further when Rachel's dad comes in town demanding to take his son back with him....
Zane is in a rhythm. He works. He goes home. He does the radio show with Logan. He sometimes goes to the family resident. What he doesn't do are women. Especially the ones that seem to radiate sunshine and positivity. He just knows that he will somehow break it. So he takes himself out before he can experience it. But something is different about Rachel. She doesn't give up easily. He finds himself thinking about her more than he should. He finds himself wanting things he shouldn't. He is also getting teased like crazy by his brothers who just need to mind their business. But the more he is around Rachel the more he can't ignore his feelings. He is just so drawn to her. So he finally says yes to a massage. Which he knows is a mistake but he doesn't care anymore. One thing leads to another and now he can't see a future without her in it. But this is when things go wrong for him. This is when things break. Will he be able to get out of his head long enough to realize it is worth it? Or will he walk away hurting them both? Because he has fallen and fallen hard and that might just be worth some pain.
I absolutely LOVED the brother text chain in this one. It is just so perfect haha. I liked that there wasn't a FULL third act breakup but more like a mini one. I liked how much these characters helped each other. They truly were their best self when together. I LOVED the teaser at the end for book 3. I feel like we heard about Olivia for point 2 seconds in book 1, but now we know that her and Garrett were hot and heavy in high school. Definitely seems like there are some unsaid things between them- can't wait to see how that all unfolds!!
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Tia for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! I definitely recommend this book and series if you are looking for the small town vibes with great text thread banter, strong FMCs with men that fall hard for them as well as a smidge of sports and GREAT spice!
Rachel thinks she has finally found her place. She has a place to live. She has a good job. She has met a few friends. Her coworker is HOT. But then she has to unexpectedly get her younger brother because of an incident that happened at his school. Now she is making lemonade out of lemons. She is bringing Eddie (her brother) to work with him. She is trying to ignore the growing tension between her and Zane (the hot coworker). He is just so intriguing to her. He won't accept anyone's help but seems to be radiating that he needs something in his life. Rachel decides it is going to be her. She lives across the hall from him. There are only so many places he can go. But man is he hard to corner. Between leaving the room when she gets there or ignoring her offers for a massage what is she going to do? Keep trying that's what. Slowly but surely she whittles him down. He has started smirking more. He is hanging out with her brother and helping him. He has agreed to a massage which is when everything changes between them. It's clear he wants more and so does she. Little does he know she has no experience. But of course that doesn't deter him. Now they are explosive. They are experiencing time alone and it's amazing. She is falling hard for him. But his walls still seem to be up. Will she be able to help him through the darkness he can't seem to walk away from? Or will he give up before they have seen where this will go? Their relationship gets tested even further when Rachel's dad comes in town demanding to take his son back with him....
Zane is in a rhythm. He works. He goes home. He does the radio show with Logan. He sometimes goes to the family resident. What he doesn't do are women. Especially the ones that seem to radiate sunshine and positivity. He just knows that he will somehow break it. So he takes himself out before he can experience it. But something is different about Rachel. She doesn't give up easily. He finds himself thinking about her more than he should. He finds himself wanting things he shouldn't. He is also getting teased like crazy by his brothers who just need to mind their business. But the more he is around Rachel the more he can't ignore his feelings. He is just so drawn to her. So he finally says yes to a massage. Which he knows is a mistake but he doesn't care anymore. One thing leads to another and now he can't see a future without her in it. But this is when things go wrong for him. This is when things break. Will he be able to get out of his head long enough to realize it is worth it? Or will he walk away hurting them both? Because he has fallen and fallen hard and that might just be worth some pain.
I absolutely LOVED the brother text chain in this one. It is just so perfect haha. I liked that there wasn't a FULL third act breakup but more like a mini one. I liked how much these characters helped each other. They truly were their best self when together. I LOVED the teaser at the end for book 3. I feel like we heard about Olivia for point 2 seconds in book 1, but now we know that her and Garrett were hot and heavy in high school. Definitely seems like there are some unsaid things between them- can't wait to see how that all unfolds!!
Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Tia for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! I definitely recommend this book and series if you are looking for the small town vibes with great text thread banter, strong FMCs with men that fall hard for them as well as a smidge of sports and GREAT spice!
October 10, 2024
Sadly, this one wasn’t for me. My biggest concern was connecting with the h. She acted younger than her actual age and it bothered me how the H was grumpy with just her. It made no sense.
January 19, 2025
This is the second book in the Bradford Boys series. It's a small town/retired athlete trope with all the feels of a tigh-knit town. Found family. Adorable kids.
Zane, is a grumpy asshole. He accidentally destroyed his little sister's career by falling on her leg while playing football as a family. He's been blaming himself for many years firmly believing that Karma is a b*tch and will soon come bite him in the a**. And bite him she did when he also suffered an accident while playing as a professional football player forcing him into an early retirement. You see, Zane thinks he cannot get attached to something or someone because happiness in his case is not an endgame.
In comes Rachel, beautiful, sweet, funny and virginal Rachel who has suffered under the scrutiny of her dad, the dismissal of her mom and having to take care of her Autistic brother when she was only 16 years old. She didn't have time to date and even if she did guys didn't want to be around a girl whose sidekick is her young autistic brother, hence, staying virgin at almost 30 years of age.
Theirs is a bit of a pull and push with A LOT of sexual tension, funny moments with his family and the whole town interfering for them to end up together.
But the best part of the story is her brother, Edward. I adore that boy, sweet, smart, and everything that is good.
It's a sweet story that gives you all the fuzzy, fluffy and heartwarming feels.
Plus it doesn't hurt that all the spicy scenes are heat inducing, pulse rating, heart throbbing and flustering as hell. 🥵🥵 phewww I mean Tia Louise you really know how to make your readers blush and squirm. *fanning my face*
📝 ticking another Bingo square
99) "Book that starts with the letter W"
25┃🔴┃87┃13┃68┃40┃🔴┃59┃76┃44
10┃86┃04┃45┃47┃98┃50┃🔴┃85┃75
88┃51┃09┃02┃42┃29┃24┃92┃82┃01
100┃🔴┃17┃96┃43┃49┃64┃70┃15┃38
🔴┃31┃62┃🔴┃21┃73┃28┃46┃90┃77
03┃12┃80┃69┃52┃65┃54┃91┃23┃72
18┃95┃22┃99🔴┃93┃🔴┃41┃08┃🔴┃58
57┃94┃16┃56┃05┃60┃78┃26┃81┃61
97┃48┃79┃67┃53┃30┃06┃36┃89┃🔴
71┃19┃39┃66┃55┃27┃20┃63┃11┃83
Zane, is a grumpy asshole. He accidentally destroyed his little sister's career by falling on her leg while playing football as a family. He's been blaming himself for many years firmly believing that Karma is a b*tch and will soon come bite him in the a**. And bite him she did when he also suffered an accident while playing as a professional football player forcing him into an early retirement. You see, Zane thinks he cannot get attached to something or someone because happiness in his case is not an endgame.
In comes Rachel, beautiful, sweet, funny and virginal Rachel who has suffered under the scrutiny of her dad, the dismissal of her mom and having to take care of her Autistic brother when she was only 16 years old. She didn't have time to date and even if she did guys didn't want to be around a girl whose sidekick is her young autistic brother, hence, staying virgin at almost 30 years of age.
Theirs is a bit of a pull and push with A LOT of sexual tension, funny moments with his family and the whole town interfering for them to end up together.
But the best part of the story is her brother, Edward. I adore that boy, sweet, smart, and everything that is good.
It's a sweet story that gives you all the fuzzy, fluffy and heartwarming feels.
Plus it doesn't hurt that all the spicy scenes are heat inducing, pulse rating, heart throbbing and flustering as hell. 🥵🥵 phewww I mean Tia Louise you really know how to make your readers blush and squirm. *fanning my face*
📝 ticking another Bingo square
99) "Book that starts with the letter W"
25┃🔴┃87┃13┃68┃40┃🔴┃59┃76┃44
10┃86┃04┃45┃47┃98┃50┃🔴┃85┃75
88┃51┃09┃02┃42┃29┃24┃92┃82┃01
100┃🔴┃17┃96┃43┃49┃64┃70┃15┃38
🔴┃31┃62┃🔴┃21┃73┃28┃46┃90┃77
03┃12┃80┃69┃52┃65┃54┃91┃23┃72
18┃95┃22┃99🔴┃93┃🔴┃41┃08┃🔴┃58
57┃94┃16┃56┃05┃60┃78┃26┃81┃61
97┃48┃79┃67┃53┃30┃06┃36┃89┃🔴
71┃19┃39┃66┃55┃27┃20┃63┃11┃83
October 13, 2024
🎧📖AUDIO & EBOOK REVIEW📖🎧
I am absolutely smitten with the Bradford clan!
Why yes, I did listen to this audiobook even though I’ve just read the story less than a couple of weeks ago! LOL Why you ask? *sigh* I’m just special like that :) Also, I’m in my audiobook era and I love Tia so … *shrug*
Zane Bradford’s story wasn’t easy-breezy, and what I mean by that is that he takes *grumpy* to a whole new level, plus, he’s angry at the world so … But you know what? I was already drawn to him from the few pop-ins he had in The Way We Touch and I love a good challenge! ;) AND I already knew the sparks were gonna fly between him and Rachel for the same reason!!
I love this audiobook, I really do, but I’m not sure Marcio Catalano was the best fit for Zane. His voice was so ”smooth” that I’ve had to remind myself that Zane was grumpy! So, while I wouldn’t say the audio experience was not good, my reading experience was a lot better. FOR ME. Let us all remember this is 100% opinion. Okay, let’s move on.
This story had me all up in my feels all the time! I was feeling in one way or another and isn’t that exactly what we should be striving for from our reading experiences? 👏🏻👏🏻standing ovation to you Tia Louise!👏🏻👏🏻 Incidentally, that’s what made me fall in love with Tia’s writing. Her stories are heartfelt, realistic, and relatable. They are realistic fiction with circumstances that need depth, and she delivers on that every time, with respect and knowledge. I’m no stranger to “special needs” circumstances and Eddie’s character was a balm to my soul. Not once did my eye twitch (IYKYK) so props on that! The push pull between Rachel and Zane was electric and humorous at times and it always sparked off the pages. Rachel’s strength, endurance and determination exhilarated me and just made me so darn proud of her! Like I said, I felt everything all of the time and it was glorious!
I’m loving this Bradford world that Tia is creating in this small town and I’m looking forward to not just the rest of the siblings getting their HEA but also seeing cameos of all the Bradford siblings and their significant others in each other’s books! It’s my favorite part about reading a family series!
Thank you The Author Agency for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review and thank you Home Cooked Books for providing the ALC in exchange for an honest review!
I am absolutely smitten with the Bradford clan!
Why yes, I did listen to this audiobook even though I’ve just read the story less than a couple of weeks ago! LOL Why you ask? *sigh* I’m just special like that :) Also, I’m in my audiobook era and I love Tia so … *shrug*
Zane Bradford’s story wasn’t easy-breezy, and what I mean by that is that he takes *grumpy* to a whole new level, plus, he’s angry at the world so … But you know what? I was already drawn to him from the few pop-ins he had in The Way We Touch and I love a good challenge! ;) AND I already knew the sparks were gonna fly between him and Rachel for the same reason!!
I love this audiobook, I really do, but I’m not sure Marcio Catalano was the best fit for Zane. His voice was so ”smooth” that I’ve had to remind myself that Zane was grumpy! So, while I wouldn’t say the audio experience was not good, my reading experience was a lot better. FOR ME. Let us all remember this is 100% opinion. Okay, let’s move on.
This story had me all up in my feels all the time! I was feeling in one way or another and isn’t that exactly what we should be striving for from our reading experiences? 👏🏻👏🏻standing ovation to you Tia Louise!👏🏻👏🏻 Incidentally, that’s what made me fall in love with Tia’s writing. Her stories are heartfelt, realistic, and relatable. They are realistic fiction with circumstances that need depth, and she delivers on that every time, with respect and knowledge. I’m no stranger to “special needs” circumstances and Eddie’s character was a balm to my soul. Not once did my eye twitch (IYKYK) so props on that! The push pull between Rachel and Zane was electric and humorous at times and it always sparked off the pages. Rachel’s strength, endurance and determination exhilarated me and just made me so darn proud of her! Like I said, I felt everything all of the time and it was glorious!
I’m loving this Bradford world that Tia is creating in this small town and I’m looking forward to not just the rest of the siblings getting their HEA but also seeing cameos of all the Bradford siblings and their significant others in each other’s books! It’s my favorite part about reading a family series!
Thank you The Author Agency for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review and thank you Home Cooked Books for providing the ALC in exchange for an honest review!
September 26, 2024
These Bradford boys have completely stolen my heart but I do believe that Zane has burrowed in and made a special place for himself. He was such a good guy who had experienced some really awful turns of events. His loss and pain felt palpable to me, making me hurt for him. Despite his inner battles, he exhibited the kindest heart when it came to Rachel’s brother and if I hadn’t already fallen in love with him, I was a goner from that moment on.
Of course Rachel was just as wonderful. Her dedication to her brother resonated with me and I loved their interactions together. She was the perfect woman to bring Zane out of the darkness as she shined her light on everyone around her.
And talk about steamy! The Way We Play is like adding a new song to your playlist except what Rachel and Zane do will add fuel to your fantasies. Who knew such a thing existed?! They set the pages of my kindle on fire to the point I had to make sure no one around me was aware of the scene I was reading at the time.
While this is part of a series of books, the story can stand all on its own. I can’t recommend it enough as it gave me everything and more that I can ever look for in romance.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
Of course Rachel was just as wonderful. Her dedication to her brother resonated with me and I loved their interactions together. She was the perfect woman to bring Zane out of the darkness as she shined her light on everyone around her.
And talk about steamy! The Way We Play is like adding a new song to your playlist except what Rachel and Zane do will add fuel to your fantasies. Who knew such a thing existed?! They set the pages of my kindle on fire to the point I had to make sure no one around me was aware of the scene I was reading at the time.
While this is part of a series of books, the story can stand all on its own. I can’t recommend it enough as it gave me everything and more that I can ever look for in romance.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
avoid-not-safe
October 8, 2024self note - h is a 30 year old virgin who has never even been kissed. H is not a hoe from what i read on other reviews.
edit- he hasn't been with anyone since moving back into town, but he could have had someone just before the move. Pair it with a 30 year old virgin h, nope, can't do it 🫠🫠
edit- he hasn't been with anyone since moving back into town, but he could have had someone just before the move. Pair it with a 30 year old virgin h, nope, can't do it 🫠🫠
October 16, 2024
Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 4/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Sports Romance (former NFL kicker)
- Small Town
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Close Proximity
- Roommates to Lovers
- Single Guardian
- Workplace Romance
- Virgin FMC
- Protective MMC
- Found Family
The Way We Play is my first book by Tia Louise, and I really enjoyed it. I love interconnected series, in which each book is about a different sibling. This second book follows Zane and Rachel. Zane is a former NFL kicker who returns to his hometown after suffering a career-ending injury. He now works as a handyman/jack of all trades for a wealthy, blind, older woman in their community. Rachel is a massage therapist and a home nurse for the same older woman. She is also the caregiver for her 12-year-old autistic little brother. Not only are Zane and Rachel co-workers, but they end up living in the same home together.
Zane and Rachel's relationship does not start well. Zane is immediately attracted to her, however due to past trauma he does everything possible to push away those feelings. Rachel sees there is something more under Zane's tough/mean exterior, and continues to show kindness while seeking his friendship. She sees how wonderful he is with her brother and their sweet relationship. Eventually, Rachel is able to break down the barriers, and sparks fly. Their chemistry was palpable, and once they finally gave in to their feelings, things got HOT.
There is so much to love about this story. Eddie steals the show and is the cutest. I loved how Zane and Rachel, with the support of friends and family, stepped up to make sure Eddie was well taken care of. The banter is fun! I loved the brothers and their hilarious group chats. The Way We Play is a heartwarming slow-burn romance that also explores overcoming trauma, embracing the power of love, and new beginnings. The character development is top-tier, and I am completely invested in reading more about the Bradford family.
Narration:
Kirsten Leigh and Marcio Catalano performed this audiobook with dual-style narration. They did a wonderful job with this story. Kirsten and Marcio captured the complexity and emotional growth of the characters, along with the chemistry and tension of their slow-burn romance. The characters came to life through their performances, making this a good listening experience.
Thanks to Tia Louise, Brick Shop Audio, and Must Love Audio for the advanced listener copy. Opinions expressed are my own.
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 4/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Sports Romance (former NFL kicker)
- Small Town
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Close Proximity
- Roommates to Lovers
- Single Guardian
- Workplace Romance
- Virgin FMC
- Protective MMC
- Found Family
The Way We Play is my first book by Tia Louise, and I really enjoyed it. I love interconnected series, in which each book is about a different sibling. This second book follows Zane and Rachel. Zane is a former NFL kicker who returns to his hometown after suffering a career-ending injury. He now works as a handyman/jack of all trades for a wealthy, blind, older woman in their community. Rachel is a massage therapist and a home nurse for the same older woman. She is also the caregiver for her 12-year-old autistic little brother. Not only are Zane and Rachel co-workers, but they end up living in the same home together.
Zane and Rachel's relationship does not start well. Zane is immediately attracted to her, however due to past trauma he does everything possible to push away those feelings. Rachel sees there is something more under Zane's tough/mean exterior, and continues to show kindness while seeking his friendship. She sees how wonderful he is with her brother and their sweet relationship. Eventually, Rachel is able to break down the barriers, and sparks fly. Their chemistry was palpable, and once they finally gave in to their feelings, things got HOT.
There is so much to love about this story. Eddie steals the show and is the cutest. I loved how Zane and Rachel, with the support of friends and family, stepped up to make sure Eddie was well taken care of. The banter is fun! I loved the brothers and their hilarious group chats. The Way We Play is a heartwarming slow-burn romance that also explores overcoming trauma, embracing the power of love, and new beginnings. The character development is top-tier, and I am completely invested in reading more about the Bradford family.
Narration:
Kirsten Leigh and Marcio Catalano performed this audiobook with dual-style narration. They did a wonderful job with this story. Kirsten and Marcio captured the complexity and emotional growth of the characters, along with the chemistry and tension of their slow-burn romance. The characters came to life through their performances, making this a good listening experience.
Thanks to Tia Louise, Brick Shop Audio, and Must Love Audio for the advanced listener copy. Opinions expressed are my own.
May 19, 2025
“Can’t she see how important she is for me?”
The Way We Play by Tia Louise is a grumpy x sunshine romance that follows yoga instructor Rachel Wells and repair man Zane Bradford.
There wasn’t much going on with this book for me. There were some hot scenes throughout which I loved but besides that there wasn’t anything else.
As for Zane, he tended to piss me off at times. Like the whole time Rach and Zane were together, he thought that was just fucking. Ouch. And Rachel, well she was just minding her business I guess.
I did read this a while ago so I don’t really remember much, that says it all, but the first book was good and I can’t wait until all the Bradford siblings get their books.
*Thank you to the author, Tia Louise, for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.*
The Way We Play by Tia Louise is a grumpy x sunshine romance that follows yoga instructor Rachel Wells and repair man Zane Bradford.
There wasn’t much going on with this book for me. There were some hot scenes throughout which I loved but besides that there wasn’t anything else.
As for Zane, he tended to piss me off at times. Like the whole time Rach and Zane were together, he thought that was just fucking. Ouch. And Rachel, well she was just minding her business I guess.
I did read this a while ago so I don’t really remember much, that says it all, but the first book was good and I can’t wait until all the Bradford siblings get their books.
*Thank you to the author, Tia Louise, for providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.*
October 18, 2024
DNFd
You lost me at blaring RuPauls drag queen music.
I mean, who moves into someone elses house (temporary) blaring music and trying to change everything up.
Its annoying and disrespectful.
You lost me at blaring RuPauls drag queen music.
I mean, who moves into someone elses house (temporary) blaring music and trying to change everything up.
Its annoying and disrespectful.
October 7, 2024
This series is just so good, funny and everything I love when I pick a book. The tropes are immaculate - who doesn’t love a small town romance with grumpy main characters?
The Way We Play follows Zane, a retired kicker who is always in a dark and grumpy mood but is SUCH A MARSHMALLOW - no kidding. I loved his character and how we end up knowing him and understanding him better page to page.
I loved their chemistry - I don’t know how Tia does this but she always delivers a solid couple with so many fun moments and serious topics as well.
Ed was one of my favorites parts and, in the beginning, I didn’t expect to love his relationship with Zane as much as I ended up loving.
The performance on audio was *amazing* and I couldn’t put it down - I refused to stop listening, Marcio Catalano brough Zane to live in a perfect way and I was on the floor every time he spoke. Kristen Lieght was also INCREDIBLY and she delivered the perfect sweet and angelic vibe from Rachel - everything was SO GOOD here. Truly!!
I really think this series is SO GOOD and everyone definitely should give it a chance.
The Way We Play follows Zane, a retired kicker who is always in a dark and grumpy mood but is SUCH A MARSHMALLOW - no kidding. I loved his character and how we end up knowing him and understanding him better page to page.
I loved their chemistry - I don’t know how Tia does this but she always delivers a solid couple with so many fun moments and serious topics as well.
Ed was one of my favorites parts and, in the beginning, I didn’t expect to love his relationship with Zane as much as I ended up loving.
The performance on audio was *amazing* and I couldn’t put it down - I refused to stop listening, Marcio Catalano brough Zane to live in a perfect way and I was on the floor every time he spoke. Kristen Lieght was also INCREDIBLY and she delivered the perfect sweet and angelic vibe from Rachel - everything was SO GOOD here. Truly!!
I really think this series is SO GOOD and everyone definitely should give it a chance.
October 22, 2024
Audio-I really struggled with this one. I didn’t care for the narrators, it was like they were reading. The MMC I didn’t like and couldn’t really connect with as well as the FMC. I was really looking forward to this one too.
October 23, 2024
🎧𝗔𝗟𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 - 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗪𝗔𝗬 𝗪𝗘 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗬
𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙱𝚛𝚊𝚍𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝙱𝚘𝚢𝚜 #𝟸
⏳𝟬𝟵𝗛 𝟯𝟱𝗠
🎙️𝗞𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗟𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵 & 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗶𝗼 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗼
🧡𝚂𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚃𝚘𝚠𝚗
🏈𝙶𝚛𝚞𝚖𝚙𝚢/𝚂𝚞𝚗𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚎
🧡𝙴𝚗𝚎𝚖𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚅𝚒𝚋𝚎𝚜
🏈𝚁𝚘𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜
🧡𝚂𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝙶𝚞𝚊𝚛𝚍𝚒𝚊𝚗
💭This is the second book in The Bradford Boys series, and this time we're following Zane, the brooding brother. We get to dive into his backstory, like how he hurt his sister and the guilt he's been carrying ever since. Plus, he had this career-ending injury that he thinks is karma for his past actions. It's honestly heartbreaking to see how all of this has shaped him into who he is now. He's definitely attracted to Rachel, but he's got a ton of reservations about pursuing her. Their families have a complicated history, and he's worried about hurting everyone around him.
And let's talk about Rachel, my sweet, sweet girl, I absolutely love her. She's been single-handedly taking care of her baby brother, Eddie, ever since their parents bailed on them. I adore the relationship between her and Eddie. It reminds me so much of myself when it comes to taking care of family members, always putting them first, sacrificing everything, and barely having any time for herself.
That's why I was so mad at Zane for hurting her! But I do love how he finally gets his act together, because Rachel deserves everything!
❎I really enjoyed most of this story, but I did find myself getting a little frustrated with Zane at times. His stubborn refusal to admit his feelings was driving me crazy! It felt like he kept hurting Rachel over and over, and I just felt so bad for her. I get that he made things right in the end, but there was definitely a point where I was seriously annoyed, haha. But overall, still a fun and cute read!
🎧𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄🎧
Marcio is new to me, but I was really impressed with how he brought Zane's brooding character to life, he's got a great voice that really fit the role. Kirsten, on the other hand, is as wonderful as ever. I always love her performances, and this time was no exception. Together, they really made the story come alive and kept me hooked the whole time. Definitely a solid narration duo!
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝟰⭐️ | 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 𝟯🌶️ | 𝗡𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝟰🎧
✨ 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 MUST LOVE AUDIO 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚒𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝙰𝙻𝙲, 𝙸'𝚖 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚟𝚘𝚕𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚢 ✨
October 21, 2024
I felt like there really wasn't much of a story line or character development, it was just about their physical relationship. I didn't feel a connection between them. I did like the group texts with the brothers.
November 3, 2024
This was a disappointment, I didn't feel a strong connection with or between the characters and the conflict seemed silly. I enjoyed the first book in the series and I'm willing to read the next one, but this fell flat.
November 12, 2024
There is nothing I love more than a book/series filled with big family fun and feelings, and when they’re all professional football players? Even better! I was excited for Zane and Rachel’s story after finishing the first book in this series.
He is the quiet, broody, second oldest of the bunch, who was forced to retire after a career ending injury. Rachel is the new girl in town, and they work together. Zane refuses to get close to anyone, he is convinced he breaks people, so he tries to keep her at arm’s length, despite the attraction and chemistry. Rachel is so sweet, compassionate, and understanding. She has a lot on her plate caring for her younger brother (who is the best!) I loved how they came to be a part of this small town so quickly and how supportive and loving everyone was. Except Zane, who was so hot and cold toward her, but it made for some great tension between them. Underneath all the grump he had the biggest heart and it was so fun to follow along as it was uncovered.
Overall I really enjoyed this story, the small town coastal Alabama setting, the characters, and I can’t wait for the next!
The audiobook is narrated by Marcio Catalano and Kirsten Leigh and both did great jobs bringing these characters to life, and bringing out all of the emotions that tied into their story.
He is the quiet, broody, second oldest of the bunch, who was forced to retire after a career ending injury. Rachel is the new girl in town, and they work together. Zane refuses to get close to anyone, he is convinced he breaks people, so he tries to keep her at arm’s length, despite the attraction and chemistry. Rachel is so sweet, compassionate, and understanding. She has a lot on her plate caring for her younger brother (who is the best!) I loved how they came to be a part of this small town so quickly and how supportive and loving everyone was. Except Zane, who was so hot and cold toward her, but it made for some great tension between them. Underneath all the grump he had the biggest heart and it was so fun to follow along as it was uncovered.
Overall I really enjoyed this story, the small town coastal Alabama setting, the characters, and I can’t wait for the next!
The audiobook is narrated by Marcio Catalano and Kirsten Leigh and both did great jobs bringing these characters to life, and bringing out all of the emotions that tied into their story.
October 28, 2024
Tia doesn’t disappoint! 👏🏼 This was even better than book two — I loved the combo of workplace romance & grumpy sunshine. I adore the family of characters in this series and can’t wait to continue reading them in the next book!
October 7, 2024
Rachel and Zane have a chemistry that cannot be denied, no matter how hard they try. Grumpy Zane Bradford has returned home after a career-ending injury, which he blames on Karma. But hey, maybe Karma was working her magic when she sent the sunny Rachel Wells in his path at every turn.
Rachel has not been dealt a great hand, with two parents who don't deserve the title; she has been raising her younger brother since she was a child. When she was offered a job away from where she was currently living with her grandmother and brother, her grandmother encouraged her to go and start her own life, and she would care for Eddie. Only when Rachel seems to have gotten things on track does she receive a call saying that Eddie has gotten into trouble at school again and she needs to get him. I loved that she dropped everything and not only went to get him but restructured things so she could home-school him until he could start his new school after the holidays.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTWWP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
Rachel has not been dealt a great hand, with two parents who don't deserve the title; she has been raising her younger brother since she was a child. When she was offered a job away from where she was currently living with her grandmother and brother, her grandmother encouraged her to go and start her own life, and she would care for Eddie. Only when Rachel seems to have gotten things on track does she receive a call saying that Eddie has gotten into trouble at school again and she needs to get him. I loved that she dropped everything and not only went to get him but restructured things so she could home-school him until he could start his new school after the holidays.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTWWP
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
October 30, 2024
I mean.. I finished it. The second star was for me making it all the way through. I had to skim the end but.. I did it ⭐️ gold star for me.
The vibes were all there but.. no. I can’t even pin point what it was. It’s just a no for me dawg.
In the beginning I never even felt like he actually liked her. He def liked her boobs though. That was commented on more than her. Man can’t even look her in the eye. Then he has sex with a thirty year old virgin, catches feelings - those boobs must be magic. I don’t know. It was just.. off.
The whole Salina barely there plot point was dumb what was even the point of it. It’s like it was maybe going to be an actual plot point and then she forgot all about it and had to tie up that lose end in the epilogue. Pointless.
Rachel not having to sign guardianship papers for her own brother?? Some strange man does it instead?? Questionable.
Miss Gina and Edward were perfect - no notes.
The vibes were all there but.. no. I can’t even pin point what it was. It’s just a no for me dawg.
In the beginning I never even felt like he actually liked her. He def liked her boobs though. That was commented on more than her. Man can’t even look her in the eye. Then he has sex with a thirty year old virgin, catches feelings - those boobs must be magic. I don’t know. It was just.. off.
The whole Salina barely there plot point was dumb what was even the point of it. It’s like it was maybe going to be an actual plot point and then she forgot all about it and had to tie up that lose end in the epilogue. Pointless.
Rachel not having to sign guardianship papers for her own brother?? Some strange man does it instead?? Questionable.
Miss Gina and Edward were perfect - no notes.
Read
October 12, 2024Not worth a rating
October 12, 2024
Laamme
No character development. Half the book was about hot peppers. Waaay too many characters, hard to keep track of who was who. Loved the autistic little brother, though.
No character development. Half the book was about hot peppers. Waaay too many characters, hard to keep track of who was who. Loved the autistic little brother, though.
October 27, 2024
I don’t think boring is enough to describe this. It literally went on and on about absolutely nothing. Just conversation leading nowhere. DNF 52%
October 7, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️
I enjoyed this book. Zane is the type of man who will do anything for those closest to him and thinks that he doesn’t deserve the same in return. When he was younger, something happened that hurt his little sister, and ever since then, he has lived with tremendous guilt. He thought his life was going well and when his football career ended because of an injury, and he thought that karma had finally caught up to him. Zane has found some solace working as a handyman, of sorts, for a wealthy blind woman. He likes to keep busy and likes that he can get out of the house without people hovering. Zane meets Rachel, Miss Gina’s (said wealthy woman) new nurse, and they start off a little rocky. Zane is broody and frankly kind of rude to her. And to top it all off, Zane’s sister invited Rachel and her little brother, whom she takes care of, to live with her and Zane. Zane is immediately attracted to Rachel but knows that he doesn’t want to get involved because he thinks that everyone he loves ends up hurt, and he doesn’t want to hurt Rachel. Rachel is a kind, beautiful nurse who moved to the area with her little brother, Edward, to escape. Rachel has been the one taking care of her little brother since he was a baby, and they needed a new start. Rachel’s brother is incredibly smart and gifted, with special needs, and that made people at his other school not like him and made their father basically disown him. Zane is incredibly patent and kind to Edward and sort of takes him under his wing. Rachel doesn’t understand what she did to get Zane’s rath instead of his niceness. Soon, the tenson snaps, and it seems they both never hated each other. Zane has a hard time opening up, and when things get serious, he retreats. Rachel knows that Zane is her person and wants to help him see the beauty in life again and get out of the darkness. I loved these two and how they both stepped up to be parents to Edward. Zane realized that Rachel and Edward were a packaged deal, and he wouldn’t have had it any other way. Great read!
🌶️🌶️
I enjoyed this book. Zane is the type of man who will do anything for those closest to him and thinks that he doesn’t deserve the same in return. When he was younger, something happened that hurt his little sister, and ever since then, he has lived with tremendous guilt. He thought his life was going well and when his football career ended because of an injury, and he thought that karma had finally caught up to him. Zane has found some solace working as a handyman, of sorts, for a wealthy blind woman. He likes to keep busy and likes that he can get out of the house without people hovering. Zane meets Rachel, Miss Gina’s (said wealthy woman) new nurse, and they start off a little rocky. Zane is broody and frankly kind of rude to her. And to top it all off, Zane’s sister invited Rachel and her little brother, whom she takes care of, to live with her and Zane. Zane is immediately attracted to Rachel but knows that he doesn’t want to get involved because he thinks that everyone he loves ends up hurt, and he doesn’t want to hurt Rachel. Rachel is a kind, beautiful nurse who moved to the area with her little brother, Edward, to escape. Rachel has been the one taking care of her little brother since he was a baby, and they needed a new start. Rachel’s brother is incredibly smart and gifted, with special needs, and that made people at his other school not like him and made their father basically disown him. Zane is incredibly patent and kind to Edward and sort of takes him under his wing. Rachel doesn’t understand what she did to get Zane’s rath instead of his niceness. Soon, the tenson snaps, and it seems they both never hated each other. Zane has a hard time opening up, and when things get serious, he retreats. Rachel knows that Zane is her person and wants to help him see the beauty in life again and get out of the darkness. I loved these two and how they both stepped up to be parents to Edward. Zane realized that Rachel and Edward were a packaged deal, and he wouldn’t have had it any other way. Great read!
September 22, 2024
Massage therapist and aide to a wealthy woman who’s blind, Rachel has just been given guardianship of her teenage brother who has autism. Until she can find a suitable place for them to live, she’s staying with a friend who just happens to have a gorgeous brother who wants nothing more than to pretend Rachel doesn’t exist. However, because they work for the same woman and the brooding hunk is helping her brother with equine therapy, that’s much easier said than done.
Suffering from chronic pain after an injury ended his professional football career, Zane carries lots of guilt and shame for his part in his sister losing her dream of being a professional dancer. When Rachel shows up and he’s confronted with her on a daily basis, he does his level best to avoid conversations with or even being alone with her. It doesn’t help that her father is the man who swindled his parents out of their savings on a restaurant venture that never happened. Zane has a soft spot for her younger brother, however, who is slowly coming out of his shell as he works with the horses.
It isn’t long before Zane and Rachel lose the battle to stay apart. Will their baggage end them before they’ve even begun? Or are they exactly what they each need to heal?
There’s angst upon angst but also some spice. This book is part of a series, but it works just fine as a standalone.
I received an advance reader copy from the Author Agency and bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Suffering from chronic pain after an injury ended his professional football career, Zane carries lots of guilt and shame for his part in his sister losing her dream of being a professional dancer. When Rachel shows up and he’s confronted with her on a daily basis, he does his level best to avoid conversations with or even being alone with her. It doesn’t help that her father is the man who swindled his parents out of their savings on a restaurant venture that never happened. Zane has a soft spot for her younger brother, however, who is slowly coming out of his shell as he works with the horses.
It isn’t long before Zane and Rachel lose the battle to stay apart. Will their baggage end them before they’ve even begun? Or are they exactly what they each need to heal?
There’s angst upon angst but also some spice. This book is part of a series, but it works just fine as a standalone.
I received an advance reader copy from the Author Agency and bookfunnel, and I’m sharing my honest review.
October 8, 2024
The Way We Play
By: Tia Louise
4.5 stars
2 spice
THE BRADFORD BOYS ARE BACK- well Zane Bradford is with his broody self.
Tia always writes the books with the best amount of humor, love, and sorrow- but always ending with an HEA.
Zane Bradford isn't looking for love because everyone he loves ends up hurt. It happened with his sister, and karma just keeps on coming. When he gets hurt and is sent home from his football career, he struggles with how to deal with the trauma and ends up using horses for therapy. Thats part of what he does all day but, the other part is being a handy man for a little blind lady. When the new therapist shows up, needs a place for her and her brother to live, and ends up under his skin, he starts to realize she just might be good for him- but- not before being a complete butthead. When Rachel asks him to teach her, I just about lost my mind! !
Rachel is the best kind of FMC. She's sweet, she's the best sister, she's inexperienced in the bed room, well wait- shes 30 years old and never been kissed. After she moved away to finally find who she was something happened and she had to go get her brother, Edward, who she has been taking care of his whole life. When Zane and Dylan let them stay with them, there is just the right amount of forced proximity with her and Zane working together and living together to light the fire. She is good for him, and she wants to play... what better way to learn than with a drop dead NFL player?
THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD. EDWARD STEALS THE SHOW, AND IS HILARIOUS. RACHEL AND ZANES RELATIONSHIP IS WRITTEN SO WELL, AND DONT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE GUYS GROUP CHAT BECAUSE ITS JUST SO DANG GOOD.
releases 10/7 and you dont want to miss it.
By: Tia Louise
4.5 stars
2 spice
THE BRADFORD BOYS ARE BACK- well Zane Bradford is with his broody self.
Tia always writes the books with the best amount of humor, love, and sorrow- but always ending with an HEA.
Zane Bradford isn't looking for love because everyone he loves ends up hurt. It happened with his sister, and karma just keeps on coming. When he gets hurt and is sent home from his football career, he struggles with how to deal with the trauma and ends up using horses for therapy. Thats part of what he does all day but, the other part is being a handy man for a little blind lady. When the new therapist shows up, needs a place for her and her brother to live, and ends up under his skin, he starts to realize she just might be good for him- but- not before being a complete butthead. When Rachel asks him to teach her, I just about lost my mind! !
Rachel is the best kind of FMC. She's sweet, she's the best sister, she's inexperienced in the bed room, well wait- shes 30 years old and never been kissed. After she moved away to finally find who she was something happened and she had to go get her brother, Edward, who she has been taking care of his whole life. When Zane and Dylan let them stay with them, there is just the right amount of forced proximity with her and Zane working together and living together to light the fire. She is good for him, and she wants to play... what better way to learn than with a drop dead NFL player?
THIS BOOK IS SO GOOD. EDWARD STEALS THE SHOW, AND IS HILARIOUS. RACHEL AND ZANES RELATIONSHIP IS WRITTEN SO WELL, AND DONT EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE GUYS GROUP CHAT BECAUSE ITS JUST SO DANG GOOD.
releases 10/7 and you dont want to miss it.
January 25, 2025
Rating: 4 stars
Format: Kindle
Genre: Romance
Recommend by: BookTok
Favorite quote(s): “It’s a pleasure to be kind to kind people.”
“Moving my tongue around, I realize I have a grape candy in my mouth. “Were you eating a Jolly Rancher?” “I told you I missed you.”
Thoughts: This book was so easy and fun. The FMC was such a sweetheart. The MMC was a tortured soul, but the good kind who doesn’t take too long to pull his head out of his butt. I love an interconnected series and this book alone convinced me to read the rest of the Bradford siblings books.
Would I recommend?: Yes!!
Format: Kindle
Genre: Romance
Recommend by: BookTok
Favorite quote(s): “It’s a pleasure to be kind to kind people.”
“Moving my tongue around, I realize I have a grape candy in my mouth. “Were you eating a Jolly Rancher?” “I told you I missed you.”
Thoughts: This book was so easy and fun. The FMC was such a sweetheart. The MMC was a tortured soul, but the good kind who doesn’t take too long to pull his head out of his butt. I love an interconnected series and this book alone convinced me to read the rest of the Bradford siblings books.
Would I recommend?: Yes!!
October 16, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
September 30, 2024
Zane is hiding so much more than I’d expected. He’s deep. So sensitive under that gruff facade. And man, does he fall hard. Of course, he’s a man unfamiliar with the feeling of falling, so he does make a few mistakes. He doesn’t mean to, but he still stumbles a bit. Luckily, he’s got a brother who is 100% on his side, no matter what, to help him make heads or tails of his true wish.
Rachel is also hiding more than you’d expect. She’s so utterly charming that it’s easy to overlook how much she’s given up in life. But once Zane decides he’s in for even a smidge of it, life starts to take a turn for her. Because even if Zane isn’t ready to admit his feelings, he DOES prove that he’s got her back. And Eddie’s, too. In a huge, oh so meaningful way.
Add in the peppers and some beautiful smackdowns by a woman no one is expecting as their number one ally and I was hooked! I mean, I knew I would be. But I didn’t want this to end and now I have to wait for Liv and her time to shine…she’s already experienced the heat, so she should get the sweet that comes with it!
Rachel is also hiding more than you’d expect. She’s so utterly charming that it’s easy to overlook how much she’s given up in life. But once Zane decides he’s in for even a smidge of it, life starts to take a turn for her. Because even if Zane isn’t ready to admit his feelings, he DOES prove that he’s got her back. And Eddie’s, too. In a huge, oh so meaningful way.
Add in the peppers and some beautiful smackdowns by a woman no one is expecting as their number one ally and I was hooked! I mean, I knew I would be. But I didn’t want this to end and now I have to wait for Liv and her time to shine…she’s already experienced the heat, so she should get the sweet that comes with it!
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