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The Game: A Hot Friends to Lovers Romance
From award-winning author Eve Riley comes the fifth installment of the acclaimed Techboys Series.
THE GAME
When Russian tennis sensation Anna Talanova catches her boyfriend cheating, she’s forced to take desperate measures—right on the brink of a high-profile event. Enter Adam Miller, a tech entrepreneur on the edge of financial ruin, enlisted as her reluctant new “date.” Their staged partnership sparks a media frenzy, and as Adam and Anna fend off tabloids, scheming exes, and shadows from Anna’s Russian past, a bond forms that neither of them can ignore.
But as threats escalate and Anna’s past resurfaces with dangerous intensity, love and trust are tested to their limits in a high-stakes game, culminating in a final, harrowing test of loyalty and courage.
Will they make it out together, or will their enemies win the ultimate match point?
Perfect for romance fans, THE GAME weaves scandal, betrayal, and the triumph of love into a pulse-pounding story that defies expectations.
“This book is incredible. I laughed out loud reading your book, and that almost never happens to me.” Caroline, Beta Reader
“I dove head first into this story line, it was great!” Kelsey, Beta Reader
THE GAME
When Russian tennis sensation Anna Talanova catches her boyfriend cheating, she’s forced to take desperate measures—right on the brink of a high-profile event. Enter Adam Miller, a tech entrepreneur on the edge of financial ruin, enlisted as her reluctant new “date.” Their staged partnership sparks a media frenzy, and as Adam and Anna fend off tabloids, scheming exes, and shadows from Anna’s Russian past, a bond forms that neither of them can ignore.
But as threats escalate and Anna’s past resurfaces with dangerous intensity, love and trust are tested to their limits in a high-stakes game, culminating in a final, harrowing test of loyalty and courage.
Will they make it out together, or will their enemies win the ultimate match point?
Perfect for romance fans, THE GAME weaves scandal, betrayal, and the triumph of love into a pulse-pounding story that defies expectations.
“This book is incredible. I laughed out loud reading your book, and that almost never happens to me.” Caroline, Beta Reader
“I dove head first into this story line, it was great!” Kelsey, Beta Reader
- GenresRomanceFriends To Lovers
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 16, 2024
3 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Eve M. Riley
6 books189 followersScottish-based author Eve Riley was born in Dunfermline, a small picturesque town in Fife. After graduating with a degree in Mathematics, she worked in advertising agencies for ten years before setting up her own market research company, which she ran successfully for twenty years. She then began working
with technology startups, which spawned the ideas for The Refusal. Over the last eight years she has pursued her childhood dream of writing.
Her romance series The Techboys Series revolves around three men, Janus, Fabian, and Adam, who by chance sit next to each other in their first
computer science lecture at college. Their contrasting personalities result in them helping each other out, and, as they rescue one another from various scrapes, a deep bond develops. The books meet them years later in New York City as they struggle to get their lives on track.
Eve lives in Edinburgh with her husband and has two grown-up children.
Janus and Jo’s story, The Refusal, is the first novel in The Techboys Series, and will be followed by a further seven novels exploring Fabian and Kate’s, Liss’s
and Adam’s unfolding stories.
with technology startups, which spawned the ideas for The Refusal. Over the last eight years she has pursued her childhood dream of writing.
Her romance series The Techboys Series revolves around three men, Janus, Fabian, and Adam, who by chance sit next to each other in their first
computer science lecture at college. Their contrasting personalities result in them helping each other out, and, as they rescue one another from various scrapes, a deep bond develops. The books meet them years later in New York City as they struggle to get their lives on track.
Eve lives in Edinburgh with her husband and has two grown-up children.
Janus and Jo’s story, The Refusal, is the first novel in The Techboys Series, and will be followed by a further seven novels exploring Fabian and Kate’s, Liss’s
and Adam’s unfolding stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
October 10, 2025
When tennis star Anna Talanova discovers her boyfriend, Olympic downhill skier Arty Maroz, has been unfaithful, she is angry but not surprised. She hasn’t had great luck with men. Between their massive egos and her insane travel schedule, Anna’s love life is doomed. But the paparazzi will have a field day with this breakup if Anna doesn’t come up with a solution quickly.
Enter equal parts nerdy and adorable tech-up-and-comer, Adam Miller. With his laid-back attitude and unblemished image, Adam is the ideal candidate to accompany Anna to high-profile events and divert the media’s attention. Adam’s start-up company is barely surviving, and he could certainly use the distraction–and maybe being seen with enigmatic Anna will be good for his dying business.
What starts as a friendship and a mutually beneficial arrangement turns into more when sparks begin to fly between Anna and Adam. But when jealous exes and a seedy past in Russia threaten their relationship, the two wonder if a budding romance is worth it.
The Game is book five in The Techboys Series by Eve M. Riley, but can easily be read as a standalone. In this thrilling contemporary romance, the perspective alternates between Anna and Adam as they grapple with intense feelings, only to quickly realize that pursuing a relationship could put them in a perilous position—one with dire consequences.
If you’ve ever read any of Riley’s other works, you have likely delighted in her ability to create palpable chemistry between her characters. I’m talking about a steady building of tension, questioning “will they or won’t they,” and then the delivery of toe-curling passion that is red-hot without being smutty. Anna and Adam are no exception. Whether it’s their flirtatious banter or “innocent” rough-housing in Anna’s gym, readers won’t be able to get enough of their undeniable attraction.
Beyond the chemistry, the author has done an exceptional job of exploring the vulnerability that’s exposed when love surprises you. For many, letting their guard down comes with a loss of control, which is terrifying, especially if you’ve been wounded before. You question whether it is worth the potential of being burned again. Adam alludes to a heartbreaking past, where his heart was trampled, which is why he is so keen on keeping his proverbial cards close to his chest.
Anna’s been victimized in other ways, so their hearts are both heavy from trauma. While they’re both comforted by this casual arrangement, they subconsciously pine for more. Trust issues become a giant red flag when they realize their platonic feelings have morphed into so much more, and they have to decide if it is worth the risk.
The Game by Eve M. Riley should be at the top of your reading pile if you enjoy romance, particularly the friends-turned-lovers trope with a heavy dose of spice. Moreover, the novel expertly illuminates the darker side of professional sports and aims to expose those who abuse their power. Riley’s writing is immersive and multidimensional, and readers will want to spend every second reading this book!
Enter equal parts nerdy and adorable tech-up-and-comer, Adam Miller. With his laid-back attitude and unblemished image, Adam is the ideal candidate to accompany Anna to high-profile events and divert the media’s attention. Adam’s start-up company is barely surviving, and he could certainly use the distraction–and maybe being seen with enigmatic Anna will be good for his dying business.
What starts as a friendship and a mutually beneficial arrangement turns into more when sparks begin to fly between Anna and Adam. But when jealous exes and a seedy past in Russia threaten their relationship, the two wonder if a budding romance is worth it.
The Game is book five in The Techboys Series by Eve M. Riley, but can easily be read as a standalone. In this thrilling contemporary romance, the perspective alternates between Anna and Adam as they grapple with intense feelings, only to quickly realize that pursuing a relationship could put them in a perilous position—one with dire consequences.
If you’ve ever read any of Riley’s other works, you have likely delighted in her ability to create palpable chemistry between her characters. I’m talking about a steady building of tension, questioning “will they or won’t they,” and then the delivery of toe-curling passion that is red-hot without being smutty. Anna and Adam are no exception. Whether it’s their flirtatious banter or “innocent” rough-housing in Anna’s gym, readers won’t be able to get enough of their undeniable attraction.
Beyond the chemistry, the author has done an exceptional job of exploring the vulnerability that’s exposed when love surprises you. For many, letting their guard down comes with a loss of control, which is terrifying, especially if you’ve been wounded before. You question whether it is worth the potential of being burned again. Adam alludes to a heartbreaking past, where his heart was trampled, which is why he is so keen on keeping his proverbial cards close to his chest.
Anna’s been victimized in other ways, so their hearts are both heavy from trauma. While they’re both comforted by this casual arrangement, they subconsciously pine for more. Trust issues become a giant red flag when they realize their platonic feelings have morphed into so much more, and they have to decide if it is worth the risk.
The Game by Eve M. Riley should be at the top of your reading pile if you enjoy romance, particularly the friends-turned-lovers trope with a heavy dose of spice. Moreover, the novel expertly illuminates the darker side of professional sports and aims to expose those who abuse their power. Riley’s writing is immersive and multidimensional, and readers will want to spend every second reading this book!
November 28, 2024
This book is a great friends to lovers steamy romance story, with a twist. It had a great plot with some shocking revelations and twists that I did not see coming - this is not just your average love story! It was really well written, the story flowed well and was easy to follow.
I do think, however, that this book needed a bit more characterisation and character depth. Whilst it was a fiery and interesting story, I felt it needed a bit more time for feelings and tensions to build between the two main characters.
That being said, this book is a well written and immersive romance story with some elements of suspense and shock. If you're a spicy romance fan, this one is for you!
This is part of a series, however can be read as a standalone. I read this as a standalone having been given the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest review.
3.5stars rounded up
I do think, however, that this book needed a bit more characterisation and character depth. Whilst it was a fiery and interesting story, I felt it needed a bit more time for feelings and tensions to build between the two main characters.
That being said, this book is a well written and immersive romance story with some elements of suspense and shock. If you're a spicy romance fan, this one is for you!
This is part of a series, however can be read as a standalone. I read this as a standalone having been given the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest review.
3.5stars rounded up
December 13, 2024
Eve always amazes me with the stories that she comes up with. I never thought that any man in the Techboys series would beat Fabian for me but Adam is coming in at an extremely close second!
This is a friend’s to lovers romance story with plenty of twists and turns. The story has romance, secrets, drama, some spicy moments and lots more. You can read this as a stand alone however characters from the previous books are mentioned throughout and I’d highly recommend reading the rest of the books to gain a full understanding of who everyone is. (Totally worth it, every single book in this series is AMAZING)
Adam and Anna are both likeable characters with thought-provoking and emotional backgrounds. Eve has came up with interesting starting points for the characters that make them who they are when we meet them for this story. A thorough amount of research has went into the story and it has been so well put together! I can’t wait to see what Eve has planned for her next book and hope to see Adam and Anna again!!
This is a friend’s to lovers romance story with plenty of twists and turns. The story has romance, secrets, drama, some spicy moments and lots more. You can read this as a stand alone however characters from the previous books are mentioned throughout and I’d highly recommend reading the rest of the books to gain a full understanding of who everyone is. (Totally worth it, every single book in this series is AMAZING)
Adam and Anna are both likeable characters with thought-provoking and emotional backgrounds. Eve has came up with interesting starting points for the characters that make them who they are when we meet them for this story. A thorough amount of research has went into the story and it has been so well put together! I can’t wait to see what Eve has planned for her next book and hope to see Adam and Anna again!!
December 2, 2024
I’m not going to lie I had absolutely no idea what to expect with this book. The Tech Boys series is a new series for me. But each of the books I have read have been really good.
The Game is a steamy friends to lovers romance full of mystery and suspense. Is it weird if I say I felt like I was watching a movie while reading this book???
The plot…:.the writing was done so well. This book is one that I slowly took my time reading.
The Game is a steamy friends to lovers romance full of mystery and suspense. Is it weird if I say I felt like I was watching a movie while reading this book???
The plot…:.the writing was done so well. This book is one that I slowly took my time reading.
December 16, 2024
"I never thought I’d find this..."
“Find what?”
“Find you.”
"Maybe you just have to keep getting up off the floor. Maybe the only risk you take is staying down for too long."
I feel like the brilliant romance author, Eve M. Riley, wrote The Game, the 5th book of her award winning (84 of them so far) standalone interconnected Techboys romance series just for me. It was reading euphoria with a masterfully executed plot.
Anna Talanova, a Russian tennis star, has sacrificed her youth and innocence to escape Russia's oligarchy. After breaking up with her cheating boyfriend she needs a plus one for a NYC red carpet event. This moment brought happy squeals out of me. It seems Anna is friends with Janus. The sexiest Tech CEO from Book 1, The Refusal.
Janus convinces one of his best friends, Adam, who's been alone for 10 years, traumatized from a past manipulative relationship, to be Anna's date. Being greeted by her adorable Papillon dog, Pepper, changes his heart forever.
As Adam's tech parts firm struggles financially he also struggles to remain just friends with Anna. But when her ex attacks and her past comes back to hurt her, Adam steps up in a way only a loyal, protective, sweet, Jujitsu trained alpha man can and rescues her...with a little help from old friends!
My dear wonderful Eve, when I saw the chapter from Fabian's POV, the bad boy hacker from book 2, The Outcast, I just about lost my mind. My heart was full. As a writer you gave the perfect gift to your readers!
The Game is a winning sexy friends to lovers romance that scores the perfect balance of swoon, drama, laughs, found family, dogs and love. Trust me if you love romance the entire Techboys series will win your heart.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
“Find what?”
“Find you.”
"Maybe you just have to keep getting up off the floor. Maybe the only risk you take is staying down for too long."
I feel like the brilliant romance author, Eve M. Riley, wrote The Game, the 5th book of her award winning (84 of them so far) standalone interconnected Techboys romance series just for me. It was reading euphoria with a masterfully executed plot.
Anna Talanova, a Russian tennis star, has sacrificed her youth and innocence to escape Russia's oligarchy. After breaking up with her cheating boyfriend she needs a plus one for a NYC red carpet event. This moment brought happy squeals out of me. It seems Anna is friends with Janus. The sexiest Tech CEO from Book 1, The Refusal.
Janus convinces one of his best friends, Adam, who's been alone for 10 years, traumatized from a past manipulative relationship, to be Anna's date. Being greeted by her adorable Papillon dog, Pepper, changes his heart forever.
As Adam's tech parts firm struggles financially he also struggles to remain just friends with Anna. But when her ex attacks and her past comes back to hurt her, Adam steps up in a way only a loyal, protective, sweet, Jujitsu trained alpha man can and rescues her...with a little help from old friends!
My dear wonderful Eve, when I saw the chapter from Fabian's POV, the bad boy hacker from book 2, The Outcast, I just about lost my mind. My heart was full. As a writer you gave the perfect gift to your readers!
The Game is a winning sexy friends to lovers romance that scores the perfect balance of swoon, drama, laughs, found family, dogs and love. Trust me if you love romance the entire Techboys series will win your heart.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 17, 2024
Wow, just wow The Game totally blew me away. This book is completely amazing, it has it all a great storyline the characters were well written and relatable. This was my first book by Eve and I truly can’t wait to read more!
This book is about the main characters Adam who is a tech guy and was hurt a while ago by his ex, so he hasn’t dated since.
Then you bring in Anna who is a Russian tennis player who just dumped her ex and needed a guy to go to an event, hence what brings Adam to her door.
The chemistry they fight is just hot, Anna didn’t want to be involved with Adam cause of her Russian past. Read and find out what happens between Adam & Anna and the others in this amazing read.
Read the triggers before reading this.. does skim over some difficult topics, and there is spicy scenes too.
This book is about the main characters Adam who is a tech guy and was hurt a while ago by his ex, so he hasn’t dated since.
Then you bring in Anna who is a Russian tennis player who just dumped her ex and needed a guy to go to an event, hence what brings Adam to her door.
The chemistry they fight is just hot, Anna didn’t want to be involved with Adam cause of her Russian past. Read and find out what happens between Adam & Anna and the others in this amazing read.
Read the triggers before reading this.. does skim over some difficult topics, and there is spicy scenes too.
December 4, 2024
Since The Refusal, I've always wondered about Adam. He was like a ghost that only Janus and Fabian could see, and I always hoped we'd get to read his story.
He wasn't what I expected. After meeting Janus and Fabian, I pictured Adam as a cross between the two of them, but instead, Adam is a quiet, reserved guy who you can call on if you need a hand.
Having him with a tennis star was a twist. Adam is so used to being on his own and out of the limelight, only to be thrust into it by helping out Anna.
I have loved this series from book one and would love to see more. I'm not sure if this is the last book of the series, however, if it is, I think it ended beautifully.
He wasn't what I expected. After meeting Janus and Fabian, I pictured Adam as a cross between the two of them, but instead, Adam is a quiet, reserved guy who you can call on if you need a hand.
Having him with a tennis star was a twist. Adam is so used to being on his own and out of the limelight, only to be thrust into it by helping out Anna.
I have loved this series from book one and would love to see more. I'm not sure if this is the last book of the series, however, if it is, I think it ended beautifully.
January 4, 2025
3.5⭐️ Thank you to the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed this friends to lovers trope. It was a spicy-ish romance with a twist. The story flowed well and I found it was easy to follow. I enjoyed the writing style and felt it really was captivating!
I think the character development did lack a bit and I wish we had a bit more depth for the characters. I did enjoy the MMC and I warmed up to the FMC, but in general, more depth for both would have made me love them even more!
If you are a spicy romance fan, this is for you. Especially if you like shock elements!
It is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone!
I enjoyed this friends to lovers trope. It was a spicy-ish romance with a twist. The story flowed well and I found it was easy to follow. I enjoyed the writing style and felt it really was captivating!
I think the character development did lack a bit and I wish we had a bit more depth for the characters. I did enjoy the MMC and I warmed up to the FMC, but in general, more depth for both would have made me love them even more!
If you are a spicy romance fan, this is for you. Especially if you like shock elements!
It is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone!
November 26, 2024
The sign of a great book is if it takes you time to read it. I am a speed reader and power through a lot of books but this book took me 3 days because I wanted to take it all in and not skim or miss anything.
This book was captivating and I am still thinking about it the day after I finished it. Adam is the perfect MMC - caring, kind, martial arts trained and withdrawn from dating post a traumatic relationship. A friend of Janus and Fabian (who I love that they feature strongly in this book ) and comes into the orbit of Janus’s mutual friend Anna. Thrown into the spotlight of her famous sports career and an equally complicated background this makes for a great story full of twist and turns, great humour, friendships and a spicy romance.
I loved Anna and her strength and how good she was for Adam. It’s a book full of layers and I absolutely loved it. It’s another triumph in this special series. I will be buying this as soon as it’s released
Can be read standalone but I would 100% recommend reading from the start as the stories are so good.
I read this as an ARC - these are my views given voluntarily.
This book was captivating and I am still thinking about it the day after I finished it. Adam is the perfect MMC - caring, kind, martial arts trained and withdrawn from dating post a traumatic relationship. A friend of Janus and Fabian (who I love that they feature strongly in this book ) and comes into the orbit of Janus’s mutual friend Anna. Thrown into the spotlight of her famous sports career and an equally complicated background this makes for a great story full of twist and turns, great humour, friendships and a spicy romance.
I loved Anna and her strength and how good she was for Adam. It’s a book full of layers and I absolutely loved it. It’s another triumph in this special series. I will be buying this as soon as it’s released
Can be read standalone but I would 100% recommend reading from the start as the stories are so good.
I read this as an ARC - these are my views given voluntarily.
December 18, 2024
The book is heartwarming, spicy and unputdownable. If you are looking for a sports romance with friends to lovers trope, revelations, and twists, look no further. The main characters chemistry was undeniable. The characters are so lovely. Author has created such a poignant back stories and shared such a beautiful odyssey of friendship, understanding, and love. The spice is spot on. Anna and Adam, both are likeable and amazing.
I received the ARC and leaving my review voluntarily
I received the ARC and leaving my review voluntarily
December 1, 2024
This book is a great friends-to-lovers romance that feels authentic and heartfelt. The backstory is incredibly well done, providing depth and richness to the characters’ journey. Despite being the fifth book in a series, it stands alone beautifully, allowing new readers to dive in without feeling lost. The relationship between the FMC and MMC is absolute perfection—balanced, supportive, and utterly swoon-worthy. Highly recommend!
December 26, 2024
What an amazing book !! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Eve is incredible at writing and I would recommend this to absolutely anyone and everyone !!
Eve is incredible at writing and I would recommend this to absolutely anyone and everyone !!
January 9, 2025
I was gifted the arc of this book by the lovely author Eve Riley. ❤️ thank you darling for allowing me to read and review for you!!
Okay. This book was hella sweet. I absolutely loved Adam and Anna! Adam is the PERFECT golden retriever boyfriend. He’s a quiet, shy nerdy electronic engineer that goes out of his way to help his friends. He meets Anna, a famous tennis player from Russia, bc he did his friend a favor and went as her date. He almost immediately falls for her. Their relationship blooms so good until he finds out the demons in Anna’s past isn’t so different than his. When it comes back to haunt her, he gets crossed in the crossfires. 🥺
The way he never gave up, never blamed her, got his friends to help her as well. His dirty talk in the bedroom, the way they flowed, just so perfect.
Loved this book so much. If you like golden retriever, instalust strangers to lovers, definitely give this one a read. There is the cutest papillon, named Pepper, too! 😍😍
Okay. This book was hella sweet. I absolutely loved Adam and Anna! Adam is the PERFECT golden retriever boyfriend. He’s a quiet, shy nerdy electronic engineer that goes out of his way to help his friends. He meets Anna, a famous tennis player from Russia, bc he did his friend a favor and went as her date. He almost immediately falls for her. Their relationship blooms so good until he finds out the demons in Anna’s past isn’t so different than his. When it comes back to haunt her, he gets crossed in the crossfires. 🥺
The way he never gave up, never blamed her, got his friends to help her as well. His dirty talk in the bedroom, the way they flowed, just so perfect.
Loved this book so much. If you like golden retriever, instalust strangers to lovers, definitely give this one a read. There is the cutest papillon, named Pepper, too! 😍😍
December 26, 2024
I always love a good friendship to romance trope! The chemistry between Anna and Adam was absolutely captivating. Anna is a Russian tennis player who happens to be in need of a date for an event and a series of conversations occur and Adam a tech guy who had his heart broken by an ex comes to her door.
It’s clear a connection was immediately there and Anna finds herself not wanting to get Adam caught up in it all. Including her past. It’s a riveting story full of friendship, spicy romance and a few twists!
It’s clear a connection was immediately there and Anna finds herself not wanting to get Adam caught up in it all. Including her past. It’s a riveting story full of friendship, spicy romance and a few twists!
December 18, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Eve Riley’s The Game is a gripping romance filled with suspense and heart. The fake dating premise at the start leads to a frenzy of escalating threats, as a real connection develops between Anna and Adam. Riley excels at maintaining a fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged. The chemistry between Anna and Adam is undeniable, and the tension builds not only from their evolving relationship but also from Anna’s dangerous past resurfacing. Riley’s writing is captivating, and her characters are well-developed, making this a satisfying read for fans of romantic suspense.
The Game also works perfectly as a standalone, so even if you haven’t read the other books in the series, you can dive right into this one!
Thank you to Eve Riley for the ARC!
Eve Riley’s The Game is a gripping romance filled with suspense and heart. The fake dating premise at the start leads to a frenzy of escalating threats, as a real connection develops between Anna and Adam. Riley excels at maintaining a fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged. The chemistry between Anna and Adam is undeniable, and the tension builds not only from their evolving relationship but also from Anna’s dangerous past resurfacing. Riley’s writing is captivating, and her characters are well-developed, making this a satisfying read for fans of romantic suspense.
The Game also works perfectly as a standalone, so even if you haven’t read the other books in the series, you can dive right into this one!
Thank you to Eve Riley for the ARC!
December 20, 2024
I loved Adam and Anna’s story so much! They both have such a deep backstory that is skimmed over quite a bit. I wish we could have processed that a little more, but it wouldn’t deter me from reading it.
Anna is coming off a nasty relationship and needs someone to escort her to a function. Adam and Anna’s mutual friend Janus suggested Adam attend and they were hooked on each other from that first night. It doesn’t hurt that Anna has a dog named Pepper and helps guide the telling at times. Anna’s past comes back to haunt her, but now she has Adam, Janus, and Fabian in her corner.
This is book 5 in a series, but can be read as a stand alone.
Anna is coming off a nasty relationship and needs someone to escort her to a function. Adam and Anna’s mutual friend Janus suggested Adam attend and they were hooked on each other from that first night. It doesn’t hurt that Anna has a dog named Pepper and helps guide the telling at times. Anna’s past comes back to haunt her, but now she has Adam, Janus, and Fabian in her corner.
This is book 5 in a series, but can be read as a stand alone.
January 27, 2025
This was such a great book! I loved Adam’s story! This series has been so great and I was excited to get to see some of my favorite characters again in this one but most of all I loved meeting Anna! She was definitely a character that I grew to love and I loved her with Adam. The way their relationship began to how it was by the end was such a beautiful growth between friendship, more than friends, and lovers that are best friends. It’s just the kind of love you want. There were also some twists and turns to keep you sucked in too!
February 14, 2025
The Game drops you into the fast-paced world of international tennis, high-stakes business, and tangled relationships. The novel follows Anna Talanova, a fiercely competitive tennis player navigating personal betrayals and professional challenges, and Adam Miller, a struggling tech entrepreneur roped into an unexpected social spotlight. As their lives intertwine, the story explores ambition, loyalty, and the weight of public perception. It’s sharp, fast, and full of unexpected turns, keeping you hooked from start to finish.
Riley has a way of making characters feel real, flawed, relatable, and just the right amount of dramatic. Anna, for example, is refreshingly complex. She’s not just a tennis star she is someone constantly on guard, hardened by past betrayals and wary of attachment. Her frustration when she discovers her boyfriend, Arty, cheating on her is palpable, not just because of his betrayal, but because deep down, she expected it. Riley nails the emotions here, the cold anger, the exhaustion, the way betrayal can feel both surprising and inevitable. And then there’s Adam, the reluctant stand-in at a high-profile event who suddenly finds himself thrust into the media’s glare. His dry wit and self-deprecating humor make him instantly likable, especially when he’s subjected to a full celebrity makeover. His internal monologue as he’s prepped for the red carpet questioning the necessity of NDAs, makeup, and strategic haircuts is some of the funniest and most charming writing in the book.
One of my favorite aspects of The Game is its sharp dialogue and dynamic character interactions. Riley lets her characters breathe, argue, joke, and stumble through their situations in a way that feels natural. The banter between Anna and her stylist, Serge, is gold. Their conversation about Adam being a “cheetah” or a “dung beetle” had me laughing, and it’s these little moments that make the book shine. Similarly, the push-pull tension between Anna and Adam isn’t just about attraction it’s about two people with completely different worlds colliding. Anna, used to keeping people at arm’s length, doesn’t know what to make of Adam’s grounded, no-nonsense attitude. And Adam, despite being completely out of his depth, finds himself unexpectedly drawn into the whirlwind of Anna’s life.
What really stuck with me was the novel’s exploration of public image versus private reality. Anna isn’t just dealing with the pressures of being a top athlete she’s managing a persona. The media, her sponsors, her team. Everyone has an expectation of who she should be. Even Adam, thrust into the spotlight overnight, quickly realizes that public perception can be a beast of its own. His reaction to suddenly being labeled “Anna Talanova’s new man” is priceless, and the way he processes his unexpected fame adds an extra layer of depth to his character. Riley captures the absurdity of celebrity culture while making it feel deeply personal.
I’d recommend The Game to anyone who loves fast-paced contemporary fiction with humor, heart, and sharp writing. If you’re into sports romance but want something with more depth, or if you enjoy stories where opposites attract in the most chaotic and entertaining way possible, this book is for you. It’s smart, fresh, and unexpectedly funny.
Riley has a way of making characters feel real, flawed, relatable, and just the right amount of dramatic. Anna, for example, is refreshingly complex. She’s not just a tennis star she is someone constantly on guard, hardened by past betrayals and wary of attachment. Her frustration when she discovers her boyfriend, Arty, cheating on her is palpable, not just because of his betrayal, but because deep down, she expected it. Riley nails the emotions here, the cold anger, the exhaustion, the way betrayal can feel both surprising and inevitable. And then there’s Adam, the reluctant stand-in at a high-profile event who suddenly finds himself thrust into the media’s glare. His dry wit and self-deprecating humor make him instantly likable, especially when he’s subjected to a full celebrity makeover. His internal monologue as he’s prepped for the red carpet questioning the necessity of NDAs, makeup, and strategic haircuts is some of the funniest and most charming writing in the book.
One of my favorite aspects of The Game is its sharp dialogue and dynamic character interactions. Riley lets her characters breathe, argue, joke, and stumble through their situations in a way that feels natural. The banter between Anna and her stylist, Serge, is gold. Their conversation about Adam being a “cheetah” or a “dung beetle” had me laughing, and it’s these little moments that make the book shine. Similarly, the push-pull tension between Anna and Adam isn’t just about attraction it’s about two people with completely different worlds colliding. Anna, used to keeping people at arm’s length, doesn’t know what to make of Adam’s grounded, no-nonsense attitude. And Adam, despite being completely out of his depth, finds himself unexpectedly drawn into the whirlwind of Anna’s life.
What really stuck with me was the novel’s exploration of public image versus private reality. Anna isn’t just dealing with the pressures of being a top athlete she’s managing a persona. The media, her sponsors, her team. Everyone has an expectation of who she should be. Even Adam, thrust into the spotlight overnight, quickly realizes that public perception can be a beast of its own. His reaction to suddenly being labeled “Anna Talanova’s new man” is priceless, and the way he processes his unexpected fame adds an extra layer of depth to his character. Riley captures the absurdity of celebrity culture while making it feel deeply personal.
I’d recommend The Game to anyone who loves fast-paced contemporary fiction with humor, heart, and sharp writing. If you’re into sports romance but want something with more depth, or if you enjoy stories where opposites attract in the most chaotic and entertaining way possible, this book is for you. It’s smart, fresh, and unexpectedly funny.
December 9, 2024
Whether you are rich or poor, whether your career has taken you to incredible heights or keeps dragging you down, when it comes to love, all this doesn’t matter. Feelings have the power to sweep you off your feet and turn your life upside down.
In “The Game” by Eve M. Riley, neither Anna nor Adam are focused on their love lives. Maybe it is because, for both of them, this part is pretty much a disaster. Anna’s last relationship just ended with a loud bang that in addition to leaving a taste of bitter disappointment threatens to keep bringing trouble. Adam gave up on women a decade ago.
Yet, when these two meet, a spark ignites as if of its own accord and promises to turn into an unstoppable fire.
Anna’s and Adam’s lives could not be more different. She is rich, successful, and popular. He is a struggling entrepreneur on the brink of losing his business. It seems that they cannot have anything in common. So, when Adam, as a result of a string of events, ends up being Anna’s ‘plus one’ at a high-end event, anyone would think it would be their first and last meeting. It turns the other way round, though. Even though both Anna and Adam don’t plan to be more than friends, fate has other plans for them.
I liked the setting of this book. Set against the upscale New York City venues, the love story between two likeable characters acquired an additional charm. I also enjoyed musing about how deeply social media infiltrated our lives and how easily it can change a person’s circumstances.
Steamy scenes and an insight into a corrupted and sinful big tennis scene in Russia add an edge to this romance novel. Even though “The Game” is a part of the series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Some of the other characters from previous books of the series are introduced in this story, and they are so intriguing that I believe readers might want to dive into other books straight away.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author and leave this review voluntarily.
In “The Game” by Eve M. Riley, neither Anna nor Adam are focused on their love lives. Maybe it is because, for both of them, this part is pretty much a disaster. Anna’s last relationship just ended with a loud bang that in addition to leaving a taste of bitter disappointment threatens to keep bringing trouble. Adam gave up on women a decade ago.
Yet, when these two meet, a spark ignites as if of its own accord and promises to turn into an unstoppable fire.
Anna’s and Adam’s lives could not be more different. She is rich, successful, and popular. He is a struggling entrepreneur on the brink of losing his business. It seems that they cannot have anything in common. So, when Adam, as a result of a string of events, ends up being Anna’s ‘plus one’ at a high-end event, anyone would think it would be their first and last meeting. It turns the other way round, though. Even though both Anna and Adam don’t plan to be more than friends, fate has other plans for them.
I liked the setting of this book. Set against the upscale New York City venues, the love story between two likeable characters acquired an additional charm. I also enjoyed musing about how deeply social media infiltrated our lives and how easily it can change a person’s circumstances.
Steamy scenes and an insight into a corrupted and sinful big tennis scene in Russia add an edge to this romance novel. Even though “The Game” is a part of the series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Some of the other characters from previous books of the series are introduced in this story, and they are so intriguing that I believe readers might want to dive into other books straight away.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author and leave this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
The Game
Firstly, thank you so much to Eve Riley for sending through this ARC for me to read and review! I will now be going back through and reading books 1-4 in this Techboys series!
Anna is well known for her superstardom in Tennis, her sponsorship deals and tumultuous on again, off again relationships. What she isn’t known for is her self-doubt, the realities of these ‘relationships’ and how the constant wave of media attention makes her feel safe, much safer than any man has before - until Adam. He is a hardworking, dedicated and brilliant man, barely keeping his head above water trying to run his business. Being with Anna gives him an escape, and brings on feelings he has been avoiding for years. Is their newfound relationship for the best, or the worst?
This romance book is AMAZING! The characters are complex, the plot is gritty and raw and the plot twists near the end had me so on edge.
Anna and Adam aren’t a match made in heaven, but they just make sense. They are supportive, have amazing boundaries with each other and a really healthy line of communication…and such good chemistry🌶️ With both of these characters struggling to get over their history of relationships and the hurt they were caused, leaning on each other really soothes and mends them in the loveliest way.🩷
I loved the writing style of this author; the chapters were more-ish, every single character was amazing and so loveable, and there were several moments I was unable to put this book down!
A sports romance novel with plotting, scheming and drama galore, an all round winner. Adult readers only!
The Game
Firstly, thank you so much to Eve Riley for sending through this ARC for me to read and review! I will now be going back through and reading books 1-4 in this Techboys series!
Anna is well known for her superstardom in Tennis, her sponsorship deals and tumultuous on again, off again relationships. What she isn’t known for is her self-doubt, the realities of these ‘relationships’ and how the constant wave of media attention makes her feel safe, much safer than any man has before - until Adam. He is a hardworking, dedicated and brilliant man, barely keeping his head above water trying to run his business. Being with Anna gives him an escape, and brings on feelings he has been avoiding for years. Is their newfound relationship for the best, or the worst?
This romance book is AMAZING! The characters are complex, the plot is gritty and raw and the plot twists near the end had me so on edge.
Anna and Adam aren’t a match made in heaven, but they just make sense. They are supportive, have amazing boundaries with each other and a really healthy line of communication…and such good chemistry🌶️ With both of these characters struggling to get over their history of relationships and the hurt they were caused, leaning on each other really soothes and mends them in the loveliest way.🩷
I loved the writing style of this author; the chapters were more-ish, every single character was amazing and so loveable, and there were several moments I was unable to put this book down!
A sports romance novel with plotting, scheming and drama galore, an all round winner. Adult readers only!
December 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
✅️ Fake Relationship-ish
✅️ Friends to Lovers
✅️ The Athlete and the Nerd
✅️ Organised Crime
✅️ Break their heart to save them
✅️ A Hot Session in the Gym 🥵
I was very honoured to have been part of the ARC team for this upcoming romance, so thank you Eve for including me! I had a great time with this 🎾📚
While it initially took me a few chapters to get into it, I was fully engrossed once Adam and Anna met and gave immediate POWER COUPLE vibes ❤️👑
I love how naturally they compliment each other, despite being polar opposites: she the tennis star and he the struggling businessman and tech geek. Their conversation, banter and care for one another is lovingly written, and had some really good laughs. The dual POV goes to show they are both adorable, awkward dorks 😆
Both burned by toxic relationships, they are so adorably cautious with each other; waiting to stay just friends but the chemistry is very evident and very intangible ❤️
And having Pepper the dog connect them further was a lovely and fun addition 🐩❤️ Every story should have a cute dog!
Anna's past and reluctant association with crime groups in Russia is a constant threat and the exploration of some pretty epic tech skills, provides great drama and thrill to the plot line 😱
Personally, I would have liked a bit more spice but equally I feel there was a good balance without it being overwhelming and in there for the sake of it so well done Eve 👏
Overall, an enjoyable read. I need to read the other books in the series now 😄📚
🌶🌶
✅️ Fake Relationship-ish
✅️ Friends to Lovers
✅️ The Athlete and the Nerd
✅️ Organised Crime
✅️ Break their heart to save them
✅️ A Hot Session in the Gym 🥵
I was very honoured to have been part of the ARC team for this upcoming romance, so thank you Eve for including me! I had a great time with this 🎾📚
While it initially took me a few chapters to get into it, I was fully engrossed once Adam and Anna met and gave immediate POWER COUPLE vibes ❤️👑
I love how naturally they compliment each other, despite being polar opposites: she the tennis star and he the struggling businessman and tech geek. Their conversation, banter and care for one another is lovingly written, and had some really good laughs. The dual POV goes to show they are both adorable, awkward dorks 😆
Both burned by toxic relationships, they are so adorably cautious with each other; waiting to stay just friends but the chemistry is very evident and very intangible ❤️
And having Pepper the dog connect them further was a lovely and fun addition 🐩❤️ Every story should have a cute dog!
Anna's past and reluctant association with crime groups in Russia is a constant threat and the exploration of some pretty epic tech skills, provides great drama and thrill to the plot line 😱
Personally, I would have liked a bit more spice but equally I feel there was a good balance without it being overwhelming and in there for the sake of it so well done Eve 👏
Overall, an enjoyable read. I need to read the other books in the series now 😄📚
December 16, 2024
Title: The Game by Eve M. Riley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
“A pulse-pounding friends-to-lovers romance with secrets, spice, and suspense!”
Eve M. Riley delivers a page-turning, steamy romance in The Game, blending passion, suspense, and heartfelt moments into a story that feels like watching your favorite rom-com thriller unfold. When Anna Talanova, a Russian tennis star, and Adam Miller, a struggling tech entrepreneur, are forced into a fake partnership for the cameras, sparks fly—but so do secrets.
From the very first page, you’ll find yourself captivated by the chemistry between Anna and Adam. Their banter is sharp, their connection electric, and their journey full of twists and turns that keep you guessing. Riley masterfully combines romance and suspense, weaving in mystery, betrayal, and surprising revelations that raise the stakes as the story progresses.
The characters are the heart of this book. Anna is strong, resilient, and layered, while Adam is charming yet vulnerable, making him a hero you can’t help but root for. Their relationship builds beautifully, with just the right mix of tension, spice, and emotional depth.
Final Thoughts: The Game isn’t just a romance—it’s an experience. Perfect for fans of friends-to-lovers, fake dating, and high-stakes drama, this book delivers a perfect blend of heart, heat, and suspense. If you love stories with tension-filled twists, strong heroines, and swoon-worthy heroes, you won’t be able to put this one down!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
“A pulse-pounding friends-to-lovers romance with secrets, spice, and suspense!”
Eve M. Riley delivers a page-turning, steamy romance in The Game, blending passion, suspense, and heartfelt moments into a story that feels like watching your favorite rom-com thriller unfold. When Anna Talanova, a Russian tennis star, and Adam Miller, a struggling tech entrepreneur, are forced into a fake partnership for the cameras, sparks fly—but so do secrets.
From the very first page, you’ll find yourself captivated by the chemistry between Anna and Adam. Their banter is sharp, their connection electric, and their journey full of twists and turns that keep you guessing. Riley masterfully combines romance and suspense, weaving in mystery, betrayal, and surprising revelations that raise the stakes as the story progresses.
The characters are the heart of this book. Anna is strong, resilient, and layered, while Adam is charming yet vulnerable, making him a hero you can’t help but root for. Their relationship builds beautifully, with just the right mix of tension, spice, and emotional depth.
Final Thoughts: The Game isn’t just a romance—it’s an experience. Perfect for fans of friends-to-lovers, fake dating, and high-stakes drama, this book delivers a perfect blend of heart, heat, and suspense. If you love stories with tension-filled twists, strong heroines, and swoon-worthy heroes, you won’t be able to put this one down!
December 17, 2024
I loved this book! The story line had me hooked and I couldn’t help but fall in love with the characters!
Anna is a famous Russian tennis player that is getting out of a bad relationship. She needed a plus one to attend an event so in comes Adam. A sweet, nerdy tech guy whose start up business is not doing too great. Anna and Adam develop a friendship that leads to both of them wanting more until Anna’s past comes back to haunt her.
Adam is so incredibly sweet and selfless and seriously such a perfect book boyfriend. I love how he defended Anna with not only words, but with his actions too. Adam had a really bad past relationship that caused him a lot of trauma, but Anna was so kind to him and didn’t push to know the whole story.
Anna is so strong. She gets hounded all day everyday by paps and she doesn’t bat an eye at it. When her ex boyfriend comes back into the picture she’s calm and collected and knows how to fight back! When Anna’s past comes calling, she doesn’t bat what she thinks is protecting Adam even if it means she doesn’t get the happy ending and that made me love Anna even more.
We can’t forget about Pepper the perfect papillon 😻 I loved how this book was so pet friendly!
While this book is the fifth book in The Techboys Series, this is the first book I’ve read by this author. I want to know more about the other characters in this book so I will definitely book adding the other books to my TBR!
Anna is a famous Russian tennis player that is getting out of a bad relationship. She needed a plus one to attend an event so in comes Adam. A sweet, nerdy tech guy whose start up business is not doing too great. Anna and Adam develop a friendship that leads to both of them wanting more until Anna’s past comes back to haunt her.
Adam is so incredibly sweet and selfless and seriously such a perfect book boyfriend. I love how he defended Anna with not only words, but with his actions too. Adam had a really bad past relationship that caused him a lot of trauma, but Anna was so kind to him and didn’t push to know the whole story.
Anna is so strong. She gets hounded all day everyday by paps and she doesn’t bat an eye at it. When her ex boyfriend comes back into the picture she’s calm and collected and knows how to fight back! When Anna’s past comes calling, she doesn’t bat what she thinks is protecting Adam even if it means she doesn’t get the happy ending and that made me love Anna even more.
We can’t forget about Pepper the perfect papillon 😻 I loved how this book was so pet friendly!
While this book is the fifth book in The Techboys Series, this is the first book I’ve read by this author. I want to know more about the other characters in this book so I will definitely book adding the other books to my TBR!
January 24, 2025
Anna opened the video link that her friend Mila sent her. Through all the people partying, she could see her boyfriend with his hands full of the woman grinding on his lap. Her boyfriend who told her he was in Moscow for business for his father was in fact in Spain partying it up with another woman.
Adam is sitting at his desk trying to deny the depressing totals from his Excel spreadsheet when he gets a call from his friend Janus. A tennis star's agent called him to see if Janus could escort her to an awards dinner and he had recommended Adam. He said it was the perfect thing to get his floundering tech company noticed.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Adam is a computer geek and not used to being in the spotlight and dodging paparazzi. Anna is a Russian tennis player trying to avoid anything that will bring her secrets to the light.
This book is action-packed and totally unexpected. I loved the storyline and both of these characters. Adam designs computer gadgets... Anna is a tennis phenom. Adam is trying to build his company... Anna is running from her past.
I've only read one other book by Eve M Riley, which I loved, but this book is full of twists and turns and another level depth that will have me reading more from her in the future! Highly recommend.
Adam is sitting at his desk trying to deny the depressing totals from his Excel spreadsheet when he gets a call from his friend Janus. A tennis star's agent called him to see if Janus could escort her to an awards dinner and he had recommended Adam. He said it was the perfect thing to get his floundering tech company noticed.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Adam is a computer geek and not used to being in the spotlight and dodging paparazzi. Anna is a Russian tennis player trying to avoid anything that will bring her secrets to the light.
This book is action-packed and totally unexpected. I loved the storyline and both of these characters. Adam designs computer gadgets... Anna is a tennis phenom. Adam is trying to build his company... Anna is running from her past.
I've only read one other book by Eve M Riley, which I loved, but this book is full of twists and turns and another level depth that will have me reading more from her in the future! Highly recommend.
December 14, 2024
~ I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book, but all views are my own ~
I am not someone who writes extensive or scathing reviews, as an avid reader and lover of books who believes reading is meant to be fun, I will give you my honest thoughts from that point of view -
I had a ball reading this book. It covers bases I love: multiple POV’s, fast paced, fake-ish dating and forced proximity with deep and heart wrenching backstories all wrapped in one wonderful package.
If you, like me, are a fan of swoon-worthy romance novels, then you will also have a blast reading this book - because as I stated before, reading is supposed to be fun, and this novel was super fun with delicious spice sprinkled without.
I was a big fan of Adam’s cutesy and nerdy character from the start, he was instantly likeable as the male protagonist. While I was dubious of Anna, I grew to love her too as the story dove into the complexities of her character and her gasp-inducing history. Frankly all the characters, mostly Pepper the Papillon, were super likeable and left me wanting to know more about them.
Thank you to Eve M. Riley for letting me have an ARC of this book, I am so grateful and honoured.
I am not someone who writes extensive or scathing reviews, as an avid reader and lover of books who believes reading is meant to be fun, I will give you my honest thoughts from that point of view -
I had a ball reading this book. It covers bases I love: multiple POV’s, fast paced, fake-ish dating and forced proximity with deep and heart wrenching backstories all wrapped in one wonderful package.
If you, like me, are a fan of swoon-worthy romance novels, then you will also have a blast reading this book - because as I stated before, reading is supposed to be fun, and this novel was super fun with delicious spice sprinkled without.
I was a big fan of Adam’s cutesy and nerdy character from the start, he was instantly likeable as the male protagonist. While I was dubious of Anna, I grew to love her too as the story dove into the complexities of her character and her gasp-inducing history. Frankly all the characters, mostly Pepper the Papillon, were super likeable and left me wanting to know more about them.
Thank you to Eve M. Riley for letting me have an ARC of this book, I am so grateful and honoured.
December 16, 2024
I say this everytime but wow my new favourite book from Eve! I love a sports romance and this was reversed so having a female sport star felt so refreshing! I love how with Eve’s book you know you’re always gonna get a great storyline with insane twists, great romance and the best family dynamic between friends.
These characters felt different to the others we have met, it was great to see Anna’s past and her overcoming all the challenges she’s faced to get to where she was today, I also love when we get a dog to obsess over as well and Pepper was the cutest, I love that Pepper brought our two main characters together as well, she truly felt like the main character of the show.
Adam, wow. I love this man, he is my new favourite mmc in Eves world. He was just so charming and said all the right things, when he enter his influencer phase I was loving life he was just amazing!
It was also great to see the other characters, Janus will forever be so funny and he had one of my favourite lines in this whole book, “a laugh bubbles up inside me. ‘It’s just the nerves’. And Shit, I’m the backup!”
These characters felt different to the others we have met, it was great to see Anna’s past and her overcoming all the challenges she’s faced to get to where she was today, I also love when we get a dog to obsess over as well and Pepper was the cutest, I love that Pepper brought our two main characters together as well, she truly felt like the main character of the show.
Adam, wow. I love this man, he is my new favourite mmc in Eves world. He was just so charming and said all the right things, when he enter his influencer phase I was loving life he was just amazing!
It was also great to see the other characters, Janus will forever be so funny and he had one of my favourite lines in this whole book, “a laugh bubbles up inside me. ‘It’s just the nerves’. And Shit, I’m the backup!”
Read
December 30, 2024I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book in eBook format. Though it’s part of The Techboy Series (Book 5), it can easily be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the earlier books, and I didn’t feel like any details were missing.
Story Overview:
📖 The story follows Anna Talanova, a famous tennis player who catches her boyfriend cheating just before an important event. In need of a companion, she ends up attending with Adam Miller, a tech entrepreneur who quickly becomes more than just a “fake date.” Their bond deepens over time, transforming into a sweet and heartfelt romance.
The Characters:
👩❤️👨 Both Anna and Adam were likable. Their journey from strangers to friends to lovers felt natural and endearing. Adam’s patience and understanding, despite his own past traumas, added emotional depth to their relationship.
Multiple POVs:
✨ In addition to Anna and Adam’s perspectives, the story includes Fabian’s POV—a hacker whose skills play a role in supporting the main couple. Surprisingly, I found Fabian’s chapters quite interesting, especially the hacking details that added a suspenseful edge to the story.
Story Overview:
📖 The story follows Anna Talanova, a famous tennis player who catches her boyfriend cheating just before an important event. In need of a companion, she ends up attending with Adam Miller, a tech entrepreneur who quickly becomes more than just a “fake date.” Their bond deepens over time, transforming into a sweet and heartfelt romance.
The Characters:
👩❤️👨 Both Anna and Adam were likable. Their journey from strangers to friends to lovers felt natural and endearing. Adam’s patience and understanding, despite his own past traumas, added emotional depth to their relationship.
Multiple POVs:
✨ In addition to Anna and Adam’s perspectives, the story includes Fabian’s POV—a hacker whose skills play a role in supporting the main couple. Surprisingly, I found Fabian’s chapters quite interesting, especially the hacking details that added a suspenseful edge to the story.
December 3, 2024
I received this book as an ARC from Eve M. Riley, the following review is my honest opinion:
Ugh, this book was so fun, it had so many different things, celebrity scandal, nerdy tech guy, Russian tennis player, dog mom, strong FMC, golden retriever MMC. This is book 5 in the Techboys series and although it can be ready as a standalone it does include characters from previous books so keep that in mind.
I loved this book, it was so sweet but also kept me on my toes because of the hidden backstories of each character, they each had a secret they were keeping that gets revealed about 70% of the way through and boy it was a BIG one for both of them.
Anna needs a date for an upcoming event and a friend of hers suggested his buddy Adam, a nerdy, quiet, tech guy who doesn't get out enough. They go out and he's a genuinely good guy which for Anna is a rare find. They start hanging out but more and more gets revealed the closer they get. Can they survive their traumatic pasts for a bright future? Read The Game to find out!
Ugh, this book was so fun, it had so many different things, celebrity scandal, nerdy tech guy, Russian tennis player, dog mom, strong FMC, golden retriever MMC. This is book 5 in the Techboys series and although it can be ready as a standalone it does include characters from previous books so keep that in mind.
I loved this book, it was so sweet but also kept me on my toes because of the hidden backstories of each character, they each had a secret they were keeping that gets revealed about 70% of the way through and boy it was a BIG one for both of them.
Anna needs a date for an upcoming event and a friend of hers suggested his buddy Adam, a nerdy, quiet, tech guy who doesn't get out enough. They go out and he's a genuinely good guy which for Anna is a rare find. They start hanging out but more and more gets revealed the closer they get. Can they survive their traumatic pasts for a bright future? Read The Game to find out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2024
This is a steamy friends to lovers sports romance that was easy to follow with the MMC, Adam, who was just a downright nice guy - a nice change of pace from the possessive villains that consumes the fictional book boyfriend market these days - but maybe a little too nice for me, personally. Anna is a star tennis player and after enlisting Adam to help with her PR gets more that she bargained for!
TROPES AND VIBES:
🎾Sports romance
🎾Standalone
🎾Golden retriever MMC
🎾She’s the celebrity sportsperson
🎾Scheming and plotting
🎾Fake dating
🎾Only one bed
🎾Tennis isn’t the only game being played here and it’s a dangerous one!
This book is marketed as a standalone and it reads well as is, but there were a lot of other interesting characters in the book that the reader is exposed to (who I assume have already had their story) and it would be beneficial to have that background knowledge. I would have connected with the story better in that case.
3.75⭐️ 2🌶️
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy of the book. These thoughts are my own.
TROPES AND VIBES:
🎾Sports romance
🎾Standalone
🎾Golden retriever MMC
🎾She’s the celebrity sportsperson
🎾Scheming and plotting
🎾Fake dating
🎾Only one bed
🎾Tennis isn’t the only game being played here and it’s a dangerous one!
This book is marketed as a standalone and it reads well as is, but there were a lot of other interesting characters in the book that the reader is exposed to (who I assume have already had their story) and it would be beneficial to have that background knowledge. I would have connected with the story better in that case.
3.75⭐️ 2🌶️
Thank you to the author for the ARC copy of the book. These thoughts are my own.
December 18, 2024
Adam and Anna's story is so cute! Adam, the tech geek, and Anna, the celebrity tennis player with a troubled background, make for an adorable pair—and to make things even cuter, there’s a pooch involved.
Both bring their past baggage, but as they get to know each other better, they also start to trust one another. Anna is from Russia and found a not-so-ethical way to leave the country. But hey, when you don’t have a choice, you take the opportunity given to you. She trains hard and keeps a tight routine, but after meeting Adam, she starts to question her life and wonders if she deserves more. Adam overcomes his past trauma and realizes he also deserves someone to love and cherish.
A lot happens between the two—the book is a rollercoaster of emotions with mild suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. And my favorite part: when it’s part of a series! Revisiting characters is always a treat. I loved seeing Janus again and Fabian, my beautiful, forever bad boy!
All the books in the Tech Boys series are standalones and are a must-read.
Both bring their past baggage, but as they get to know each other better, they also start to trust one another. Anna is from Russia and found a not-so-ethical way to leave the country. But hey, when you don’t have a choice, you take the opportunity given to you. She trains hard and keeps a tight routine, but after meeting Adam, she starts to question her life and wonders if she deserves more. Adam overcomes his past trauma and realizes he also deserves someone to love and cherish.
A lot happens between the two—the book is a rollercoaster of emotions with mild suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. And my favorite part: when it’s part of a series! Revisiting characters is always a treat. I loved seeing Janus again and Fabian, my beautiful, forever bad boy!
All the books in the Tech Boys series are standalones and are a must-read.
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