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Game Changer
Perfect for fans of steamy, friends-to-lovers romances by authors like Elle Kennedy and Tessa Bailey.
This follow-up to Playmaker is set in the same world and features two of the secondary characters from the previous book.
Ethan Davis is determined to turn his life around. He’s tired of being the guy with no plan, no direction, and no future. A new college and a part-time gig helping to coach a youth football team could be the fresh start he needs. Sure enough, things seem to be moving in the right direction.
But when he discovers that Maya Garcia—the girl he’s loved for years, and the one who left him high and dry after their hookup six months ago—is living in the dorm room next door, his confidence threatens to falter.
Maya is away from her overbearing parents and their dreams for her for the first time, finally getting a taste of what living life for herself truly means. She also begins to wonder if ending things with Ethan was a mistake. She’s desperate to salvage their friendship—at least—even if it means hiding the real reason that she ghosted him.
With personal issues and family expectations weighing them both down, the two must decide if they’ll continue to play by the rules set by those around them or change the game completely and choose each other instead.
This follow-up to Playmaker is set in the same world and features two of the secondary characters from the previous book.
Ethan Davis is determined to turn his life around. He’s tired of being the guy with no plan, no direction, and no future. A new college and a part-time gig helping to coach a youth football team could be the fresh start he needs. Sure enough, things seem to be moving in the right direction.
But when he discovers that Maya Garcia—the girl he’s loved for years, and the one who left him high and dry after their hookup six months ago—is living in the dorm room next door, his confidence threatens to falter.
Maya is away from her overbearing parents and their dreams for her for the first time, finally getting a taste of what living life for herself truly means. She also begins to wonder if ending things with Ethan was a mistake. She’s desperate to salvage their friendship—at least—even if it means hiding the real reason that she ghosted him.
With personal issues and family expectations weighing them both down, the two must decide if they’ll continue to play by the rules set by those around them or change the game completely and choose each other instead.
352 pages, Paperback
Published August 19, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
November 26, 2025
From the very first chapter, my heart went out to Ethan. The way his anxiety was written felt so real and honest. It wasn’t overdone or dramatic, just real. You could feel how helpless he felt and how hard it was for him to do something he loved while fighting his own mind. It made me sad to think about how much he held himself back because of it. 😭😭😭
Ethan isn’t like a lot of romance heroes. He’s not super tall or super fit. He’s got a bit of a dad bod, he’s a little huskier, just an average guy, and that made him so easy to connect with. He’s respectful, kind, and never looks at people for what they look like. He really sees them. Especially Maya. (think of the highest bar a guy can set and Ethan goes above it 🩵🩵)
Maya, on the other hand, was hard for me to like. I get that she wanted her parents’ approval and didn’t want to disappoint them, but at some point, you have to make your own choices. Ending things with someone she truly cared about just because her parents didn’t approve felt selfish in my opinion. (Like girl you’re 20 years old 😭 Make decisions for YOUR OWN life). It hurt Ethan so much, and she didn’t seem to realize how deeply that affected him. She had plenty of chances to stand up for herself and for them, but she never did. ✋🏼🙄
What made me even more frustrated was how she kept leading Ethan on, even if she didn’t mean to. The way she acted and flirted with him kept him stuck, hoping for something that she couldn’t give. Ethan deserved so much better than that. She came off as careless and immature, especially when Ethan was always honest and loyal.
Ethan was definitely the heart of this book. I loved how respectful he was and how he never saw Maya as just a body. He really cared about her as a person. Watching him grow, deal with his anxiety, and finally start to see his own worth was my favorite part of the story. He carried this book from start to finish.
The writing flowed well, and I liked how the story switched between the past and present. It helped me understand how their relationship started and how messy it got later on. There’s a lot of tension in the story—both emotional and romantic—and it keeps you wondering if they’ll ever figure things out or if they’ll just keep hurting each other.
In the end, Game Changer wasn’t perfect, mostly because Maya made it really hard for me to like her. 🙄😬 But Ethan’s character and his growth made it a story worth reading 100%. His journey felt raw and real, and by the last page, I was so proud of how far he came. He deserved the world, and I loved seeing him finally start to believe that too.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
”His lips on my skin felt like he was kissing me not for my body, but for my soul.”
⸻
“Maya means the entire world to me, and if I have to choose between something or nothing?
It'll always be something.”
⸻
“I’d do anything she asked me. That's what she fails to realize. Painting my face with makeup only scratches the surface of the things I'd gladly sign up for if it meant putting that smile on her face.”
⸻
"The sight of you is all consuming, Maya Garcia. Your beauty, inside and out, could rival the heavens."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
💄 friends→lovers
🏈 second chance
💄 mental health rep (anxiety)
🏈 dual POV
💄 he falls first
🏈 good guy MMC
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group, and Deanna Faison for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
Ethan isn’t like a lot of romance heroes. He’s not super tall or super fit. He’s got a bit of a dad bod, he’s a little huskier, just an average guy, and that made him so easy to connect with. He’s respectful, kind, and never looks at people for what they look like. He really sees them. Especially Maya. (think of the highest bar a guy can set and Ethan goes above it 🩵🩵)
Maya, on the other hand, was hard for me to like. I get that she wanted her parents’ approval and didn’t want to disappoint them, but at some point, you have to make your own choices. Ending things with someone she truly cared about just because her parents didn’t approve felt selfish in my opinion. (Like girl you’re 20 years old 😭 Make decisions for YOUR OWN life). It hurt Ethan so much, and she didn’t seem to realize how deeply that affected him. She had plenty of chances to stand up for herself and for them, but she never did. ✋🏼🙄
What made me even more frustrated was how she kept leading Ethan on, even if she didn’t mean to. The way she acted and flirted with him kept him stuck, hoping for something that she couldn’t give. Ethan deserved so much better than that. She came off as careless and immature, especially when Ethan was always honest and loyal.
Ethan was definitely the heart of this book. I loved how respectful he was and how he never saw Maya as just a body. He really cared about her as a person. Watching him grow, deal with his anxiety, and finally start to see his own worth was my favorite part of the story. He carried this book from start to finish.
The writing flowed well, and I liked how the story switched between the past and present. It helped me understand how their relationship started and how messy it got later on. There’s a lot of tension in the story—both emotional and romantic—and it keeps you wondering if they’ll ever figure things out or if they’ll just keep hurting each other.
In the end, Game Changer wasn’t perfect, mostly because Maya made it really hard for me to like her. 🙄😬 But Ethan’s character and his growth made it a story worth reading 100%. His journey felt raw and real, and by the last page, I was so proud of how far he came. He deserved the world, and I loved seeing him finally start to believe that too.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
”His lips on my skin felt like he was kissing me not for my body, but for my soul.”
⸻
“Maya means the entire world to me, and if I have to choose between something or nothing?
It'll always be something.”
⸻
“I’d do anything she asked me. That's what she fails to realize. Painting my face with makeup only scratches the surface of the things I'd gladly sign up for if it meant putting that smile on her face.”
⸻
"The sight of you is all consuming, Maya Garcia. Your beauty, inside and out, could rival the heavens."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
💄 friends→lovers
🏈 second chance
💄 mental health rep (anxiety)
🏈 dual POV
💄 he falls first
🏈 good guy MMC
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group, and Deanna Faison for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
August 10, 2025
arc rtc!
August 13, 2025
Game Changer was such a cute, heartfelt college romance that instantly took me back to my own college days. Ethan and Maya were a wonderful couple, with plenty of longing, yearning, and tender moments that kept me turning the pages.
One of the standout elements for me was the excellent mental health representation. The author’s depiction of anxiety was authentic, nuanced, and deeply relatable it was handled with so much care and accuracy.
This is a sweet sports romance with genuine emotional depth, perfect for readers who enjoy romance stories that balance swoon-worthy chemistry with meaningful themes. Highly recommend!
Huge thanks to TLC Tours and Wattpad Books for the gifted ARC
One of the standout elements for me was the excellent mental health representation. The author’s depiction of anxiety was authentic, nuanced, and deeply relatable it was handled with so much care and accuracy.
This is a sweet sports romance with genuine emotional depth, perfect for readers who enjoy romance stories that balance swoon-worthy chemistry with meaningful themes. Highly recommend!
Huge thanks to TLC Tours and Wattpad Books for the gifted ARC
August 2, 2025
Game Changer was a cute read! Maya and Ethan were very likeable and sweet. I just think I probably wasn't the right public since a couple of the characters traits weren't my favorites. I am not a fan of insecure MCs and the miscommunication didn't help. Although I did love the writing and the side characters. I loooooved Tabi and would love to have her story!!!
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion 🫶🏽
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion 🫶🏽
July 26, 2025
Thank you so much to W by Wattpad for the complimentary copy of this book!
This book will be out on August 19th.
Last fall I absolutely loved Playmaker and was excited to hear that the second book in the series was going to focus on Ethan and Maya. We got a glimpse into their relationship in the first book and in a flashback we get more detail into their infamous hot tub hook up.
I pretty much will read whatever Faison will write. I had even slid into her DMs to express how much I was loving this book and she gave me a little insight into the third book **eyes emoji** I just love the way Faison develops her characters and the banter between the love interests. Whenever I wasn't reading the book, I was thinking about Ethan and Maya.
What I felt was different in this book than other romances I have read was Faison's inner monologue for Ethan. Ethan has more of an average body built maybe even like a "dad bod" and is not fully comfortable with himself. He constantly is comparing himself to his best friend (Cameron) and to other guys in school. I just wanted to give him a big hug and shake the confidence in him. He doesn't think Maya is interested in him because of this. Faison on the other end paints Maya has this gorgeous young woman who all the guys are after. And I like that Faison had Maya be openly sexual and doesn't hide this.
I think I would have been fine with the flashback sequences but I guess they are needed to help really showcase how they formed a bond and eventual friendship.
"Ethan doesn't need a cowgirl. He just needs to find someone who can ride that cowboy hat right off of him."
There was a reason why Maya and Ethan had not worked out earlier that year and I really wish Maya was more upfront with Ethan about it. Once they did start seeing each other he gave her the opportunity to provide a reason why she ghosted him and she could not give him the full truth. I blame age but also I'm sure she thought she could fix things before he would ever find out. THEY ALWAYS FIND OUT. I was proud of Maya for standing up for herself. She had the biggest cheerleader in her corner. And likewise for Ethan. Maya was so supportive of Ethan's future.
This is a 2nd in a series and while you don't necessarily need to read the first book to understand this book. Faison does a well enough job providing enough context of the first couple (which for those who have read the first, Maddie and Cameron are featured in this). But I suggest you read it because like I said - I loved it.
I need all of you read and review and purchase for friends because I want the third book! Faison hints at the couple several times and it is quite obvious who a 3rd book would focus on. And well I need it.
If you are looking for friends to lover to strangers to friends to lovers, college setting, best friend's brother, spicy romance - give this one a read!!
This book will be out on August 19th.
Last fall I absolutely loved Playmaker and was excited to hear that the second book in the series was going to focus on Ethan and Maya. We got a glimpse into their relationship in the first book and in a flashback we get more detail into their infamous hot tub hook up.
I pretty much will read whatever Faison will write. I had even slid into her DMs to express how much I was loving this book and she gave me a little insight into the third book **eyes emoji** I just love the way Faison develops her characters and the banter between the love interests. Whenever I wasn't reading the book, I was thinking about Ethan and Maya.
What I felt was different in this book than other romances I have read was Faison's inner monologue for Ethan. Ethan has more of an average body built maybe even like a "dad bod" and is not fully comfortable with himself. He constantly is comparing himself to his best friend (Cameron) and to other guys in school. I just wanted to give him a big hug and shake the confidence in him. He doesn't think Maya is interested in him because of this. Faison on the other end paints Maya has this gorgeous young woman who all the guys are after. And I like that Faison had Maya be openly sexual and doesn't hide this.
I think I would have been fine with the flashback sequences but I guess they are needed to help really showcase how they formed a bond and eventual friendship.
"Ethan doesn't need a cowgirl. He just needs to find someone who can ride that cowboy hat right off of him."
There was a reason why Maya and Ethan had not worked out earlier that year and I really wish Maya was more upfront with Ethan about it. Once they did start seeing each other he gave her the opportunity to provide a reason why she ghosted him and she could not give him the full truth. I blame age but also I'm sure she thought she could fix things before he would ever find out. THEY ALWAYS FIND OUT. I was proud of Maya for standing up for herself. She had the biggest cheerleader in her corner. And likewise for Ethan. Maya was so supportive of Ethan's future.
This is a 2nd in a series and while you don't necessarily need to read the first book to understand this book. Faison does a well enough job providing enough context of the first couple (which for those who have read the first, Maddie and Cameron are featured in this). But I suggest you read it because like I said - I loved it.
I need all of you read and review and purchase for friends because I want the third book! Faison hints at the couple several times and it is quite obvious who a 3rd book would focus on. And well I need it.
If you are looking for friends to lover to strangers to friends to lovers, college setting, best friend's brother, spicy romance - give this one a read!!
August 20, 2025
I loved the representation of anxiety in this book and the fact that our hero wasn’t some super hot out together athlete who had the world at his feet. Ethan was so easy to like and love because he was a hot mess but he didn’t give up. He had a heart of gold and this man LOVES HARD!
Maya and Ethan have a history and it’s one that didn’t have a great ending but day in and day out Ethan pushes forward to be the best version of himself. Maya who wants to control her life does what she can for her parents to make them proud but discovers that maybe she needs to go after her own dreams instead of theirs.
This was a book that shows how hard life can be when its ruled by fear and expectations. Our hero and heroine were so easy to identify with and omg the side characters….LOVE!
Maya and Ethan have a history and it’s one that didn’t have a great ending but day in and day out Ethan pushes forward to be the best version of himself. Maya who wants to control her life does what she can for her parents to make them proud but discovers that maybe she needs to go after her own dreams instead of theirs.
This was a book that shows how hard life can be when its ruled by fear and expectations. Our hero and heroine were so easy to identify with and omg the side characters….LOVE!
August 17, 2025
This was one of my most anticipated releases after reading the first in this interconnected series, Playmaker, and it didn’t let me down!
What I loved:
1. I am a sucker for forbidden romances, including best friend’s brother!! I loved watching these two be super sketchy around each other in Playmaker and then getting to see their side of things in this book! I felt like the puzzle was completed a bit on some of the things I was curious about, and it was done well.
2. I loved the anxiety rep we saw through Ethan. His anxiety was crippling at the worst of times and he detailed different ways that he had tried to control it and work with it, knowing that it would always be part of him and something to be managed. I love anxiety rep in books, especially when it is handled in this manner instead of something that magically goes away when you find the right person.
3. I loved the realistic male body representation as well. Ethan struggled with insecurities because Maya was a gorgeous and fit girl, while he was “five eleven with a dad bod”. He noted how she always went for the big buff dudes, but didn’t seem to realize how none of them kept her attention for very long. I love a dad bod just as much as a muscular bod, so it was great to see this rep and see how Maya loved it too.
4. This book was all about finding yourself and growth, and I loved it!!
I understood and appreciated Maya’s journey and why she felt she had to ghost Ethan before. I loved watching her fight to get him back and then work up the courage to tell her parents what she wanted in life, even though it was different from their dreams for her. I especially loved the mother-daughter connection we got when all the cards were on the table because it made a lot of sense and added depth to the parent’s original thoughts.
I loved how Ethan started out as someone who didn’t know what he wanted in life and who didn’t really have goals because he was so afraid of life, but he ended up finding his exact place coaching young kids in football. This was such a great journey to watch him find his true life goal and embrace it.
5. Ethan was such a green flag MMC!! Even after she ghosted him, he showed up for her EVERY SINGLE TIME she needed him. He picked her up from sketchy locations, walked her home from work late at night, secretly paid for trips she couldn’t afford but he could, let her practice makeup on him, and even took off her makeup when she had been drinking because he knew how important her skin care routine was to her. FREAKING SWOON!!!
6. I loved all the flashbacks between their past leading to them sleeping together, to the current with them in college months later after she ghosted him. I loved seeing how they connected behind the scenes with their late night conversations over ice cream. It was so adorable and so perfect that they HAD TO END UP TOGETHER!!! We knew the HEA was coming, we just had to stick with them while they got there 😊
7. This book in the series expanded the friend group quite a bit, and I seriously can’t wait for the next book(s)! I think I read this was going to be a three book series, but honestly, I’m going to want more haha! I can’t wait for the fiery passion that is single-mom Tabi and adoptive (kinda) brother Mark. I also need a love interest for Leo who has way more to him than meets the eye!!
8. Lastly, there was plenty of spice. Don't let the cute cover fool you 😉
Thank you to NetGalley, Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group, and Deanna Faison for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.25 stars!
What I loved:
1. I am a sucker for forbidden romances, including best friend’s brother!! I loved watching these two be super sketchy around each other in Playmaker and then getting to see their side of things in this book! I felt like the puzzle was completed a bit on some of the things I was curious about, and it was done well.
2. I loved the anxiety rep we saw through Ethan. His anxiety was crippling at the worst of times and he detailed different ways that he had tried to control it and work with it, knowing that it would always be part of him and something to be managed. I love anxiety rep in books, especially when it is handled in this manner instead of something that magically goes away when you find the right person.
3. I loved the realistic male body representation as well. Ethan struggled with insecurities because Maya was a gorgeous and fit girl, while he was “five eleven with a dad bod”. He noted how she always went for the big buff dudes, but didn’t seem to realize how none of them kept her attention for very long. I love a dad bod just as much as a muscular bod, so it was great to see this rep and see how Maya loved it too.
4. This book was all about finding yourself and growth, and I loved it!!
I understood and appreciated Maya’s journey and why she felt she had to ghost Ethan before. I loved watching her fight to get him back and then work up the courage to tell her parents what she wanted in life, even though it was different from their dreams for her. I especially loved the mother-daughter connection we got when all the cards were on the table because it made a lot of sense and added depth to the parent’s original thoughts.
I loved how Ethan started out as someone who didn’t know what he wanted in life and who didn’t really have goals because he was so afraid of life, but he ended up finding his exact place coaching young kids in football. This was such a great journey to watch him find his true life goal and embrace it.
5. Ethan was such a green flag MMC!! Even after she ghosted him, he showed up for her EVERY SINGLE TIME she needed him. He picked her up from sketchy locations, walked her home from work late at night, secretly paid for trips she couldn’t afford but he could, let her practice makeup on him, and even took off her makeup when she had been drinking because he knew how important her skin care routine was to her. FREAKING SWOON!!!
6. I loved all the flashbacks between their past leading to them sleeping together, to the current with them in college months later after she ghosted him. I loved seeing how they connected behind the scenes with their late night conversations over ice cream. It was so adorable and so perfect that they HAD TO END UP TOGETHER!!! We knew the HEA was coming, we just had to stick with them while they got there 😊
7. This book in the series expanded the friend group quite a bit, and I seriously can’t wait for the next book(s)! I think I read this was going to be a three book series, but honestly, I’m going to want more haha! I can’t wait for the fiery passion that is single-mom Tabi and adoptive (kinda) brother Mark. I also need a love interest for Leo who has way more to him than meets the eye!!
8. Lastly, there was plenty of spice. Don't let the cute cover fool you 😉
Thank you to NetGalley, Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group, and Deanna Faison for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.25 stars!
August 6, 2025
This book was unfortunately not for me. I really enjoyed the first one but this one didn't work for me. Also the characters felt very YA to me.
If you like an extremely insecure MMC you might enjoy it. I usually don't mind it, I like flawed characters and the anxiety rep was nice but it was the constant deprecating inner monologue and actions that were really annoying to me.
I didn't like the FMC much more. I absolutely hate when the reason for a break up is the parent's disapproval (It's not a spoiler you literally learn this on chapter 2). She lets her parents dictate her life even though she's miserable and I couldn't stand it. "My parents don't want me to open my own salon so I can't" Are you not a grown ass adult??? Ugh
I also didn't like how Maya was playing with Ethan's emotions through the whole book, she knows she "can't" be with him but leads him on anyway.
With that said, I still liked the college setting and the little cameos we got from Cameron and Maddie were nice. The writing is very fast paced and easy to read. I also really liked the side characters, Leo is so funny he was the best part of the book for me.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book
If you like an extremely insecure MMC you might enjoy it. I usually don't mind it, I like flawed characters and the anxiety rep was nice but it was the constant deprecating inner monologue and actions that were really annoying to me.
I didn't like the FMC much more. I absolutely hate when the reason for a break up is the parent's disapproval (It's not a spoiler you literally learn this on chapter 2). She lets her parents dictate her life even though she's miserable and I couldn't stand it. "My parents don't want me to open my own salon so I can't" Are you not a grown ass adult??? Ugh
I also didn't like how Maya was playing with Ethan's emotions through the whole book, she knows she "can't" be with him but leads him on anyway.
With that said, I still liked the college setting and the little cameos we got from Cameron and Maddie were nice. The writing is very fast paced and easy to read. I also really liked the side characters, Leo is so funny he was the best part of the book for me.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book
August 20, 2025
I did not want to put this book down. Thanks to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
I really enjoyed the main characters as well as the secondary characters, they felt like a tight knot group of friends, and I want to know and read about all their stories.
We met Ethan and Maya who had a previous short-term relationship before they met up again in college, living next door to each other no less. They had an undeniable chemistry between the two of them. You felt their electric pull to one another. There was a lot of flirtatiousness and a bit of spice in there that I enjoyed reading.
Unfortunately, Maya kept some secrets, and with Ethan’s anxiety there was only so much she wanted to divulge. I feel like the main point of this book was to follow your dreams, believe in yourself and remember your happiness is important. Sure, it is great to do things for others but sometimes you just must do things for yourself. I feel like that is the biggest lesson that Maya learned.
Ethan’s anxiety was touched upon several times, and it is a real thing that people must deal with. It is hard but he pushed through it and finally realized what he wants out of life and going for it, which was great.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and wanted to continue reading their story. The writing flowed nicely, the plot flowed easily, and it was believable. Would recommend this read, and now I have to check out the first book in this series.
Love Tabi and Mark and I hope to read their story as well as Leo’s.
I really enjoyed the main characters as well as the secondary characters, they felt like a tight knot group of friends, and I want to know and read about all their stories.
We met Ethan and Maya who had a previous short-term relationship before they met up again in college, living next door to each other no less. They had an undeniable chemistry between the two of them. You felt their electric pull to one another. There was a lot of flirtatiousness and a bit of spice in there that I enjoyed reading.
Unfortunately, Maya kept some secrets, and with Ethan’s anxiety there was only so much she wanted to divulge. I feel like the main point of this book was to follow your dreams, believe in yourself and remember your happiness is important. Sure, it is great to do things for others but sometimes you just must do things for yourself. I feel like that is the biggest lesson that Maya learned.
Ethan’s anxiety was touched upon several times, and it is a real thing that people must deal with. It is hard but he pushed through it and finally realized what he wants out of life and going for it, which was great.
Overall, I really enjoyed the book and wanted to continue reading their story. The writing flowed nicely, the plot flowed easily, and it was believable. Would recommend this read, and now I have to check out the first book in this series.
Love Tabi and Mark and I hope to read their story as well as Leo’s.
August 19, 2025
I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book, and let me say… I LOVED IT! It was a super quick, easy, fun and emotional read. I’ve never read anything by Deanna, but I’m here to say that I am a big fan and will be reading more from her! I loved Ethan and Maya’s love story. It hit me in all the right places. I also loved that Deanna dove deep into Ethan’s emotions and insecurities as well. It really helped draw me into the story and it was overall a really great book. I would recommend to anyone who wants a feel-good romance read!
July 10, 2025
Maya and Ethan’s story was a tale of self-discovery and growth. Both faced internal and external challenges, and I loved how their story unfolds and how strong their connects and support for each became throughout their journey.
I feel like Game Changer did an excellent job of touching on tough subjects like anxiety, body image struggles, and self esteem issues.
Maya and Ethan’s relatable and compassionate nature made them lovable characters. I couldn’t help but wish them nothing but the absolute best.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and while Game Changer can be read as a standalone, I highly encourage you to read The Playmaker.
Tropes:
Best friend’s brother,
Forced proximity,
College romance
Found family
Thank you Netgalley for sending me a copy of Game Changer to read and share review.
I feel like Game Changer did an excellent job of touching on tough subjects like anxiety, body image struggles, and self esteem issues.
Maya and Ethan’s relatable and compassionate nature made them lovable characters. I couldn’t help but wish them nothing but the absolute best.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and while Game Changer can be read as a standalone, I highly encourage you to read The Playmaker.
Tropes:
Best friend’s brother,
Forced proximity,
College romance
Found family
Thank you Netgalley for sending me a copy of Game Changer to read and share review.
August 30, 2025
**Game Changer** is the second installment in this captivating series, and this time, the spotlight shifts to Ethan, Maddie's brother and Cameron's best friend, and Maya, Maddie's close friend. Throughout high school, these two have been quietly harboring feelings for each other, but it takes a flirty night to ignite some turbulent changes in their friendship. Fast forward a few months, and they find themselves back in each other’s lives, where the chemistry is undeniable and sparks are set to fly.
While I found **Playmaker**, the first book, enjoyable, I didn't connect as strongly with Ethan and Maya's story. At times, Ethan’s constant fixation on his size became a bit grating. I understand he struggles with anxiety, but it felt like every conversation would circle back to his body image. It was frustrating to see him focus so much energy on his worries instead of taking steps to address them.
Maya also frustrated me. She was all too aware of her parents' expectations yet chose to make decisions that led to inevitable conflict, all while acting shocked when things got out of control. Ethan, on the other hand, was so head over heels for Maya that it seemed like he was holding back his own happiness to ensure she was his endgame. I appreciated the twist of Maya being the more experienced one, but I couldn’t help but wish Ethan would explore other options before diving headfirst into their relationship.
On a positive note, I absolutely loved the alternating perspectives! It was great to reconnect with familiar characters from the first book, adding depth to the story. While this might not have been my favorite in the series, I believe many readers will still find it relatable and engaging.
While I found **Playmaker**, the first book, enjoyable, I didn't connect as strongly with Ethan and Maya's story. At times, Ethan’s constant fixation on his size became a bit grating. I understand he struggles with anxiety, but it felt like every conversation would circle back to his body image. It was frustrating to see him focus so much energy on his worries instead of taking steps to address them.
Maya also frustrated me. She was all too aware of her parents' expectations yet chose to make decisions that led to inevitable conflict, all while acting shocked when things got out of control. Ethan, on the other hand, was so head over heels for Maya that it seemed like he was holding back his own happiness to ensure she was his endgame. I appreciated the twist of Maya being the more experienced one, but I couldn’t help but wish Ethan would explore other options before diving headfirst into their relationship.
On a positive note, I absolutely loved the alternating perspectives! It was great to reconnect with familiar characters from the first book, adding depth to the story. While this might not have been my favorite in the series, I believe many readers will still find it relatable and engaging.
May 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really cute. I went into it without reading the first in the interconnected series, and although I perhaps would have had a stronger connection to the characters if I had, I found myself perfectly invested and clear on backstory without that introduction.
There were many things about this book I found really wonderful. Maya and Ethan were both compelling and likable main characters, and the cast of secondary characters were quite fun as well. It dealt with some heavier issues that I think Faison handled really well, and gave this book more substance than a simple romance. The romance itself was sweet and sexy, and I found myself rooting for both our mcs the entire time.
This was by no means a groundbreaking piece of literature (in fact it struggled a bit with pacing, plot, and writing in my opinion), but if you're looking for a good, sweet, sexy time with a lot of heart, I definitely recommend giving this book a go. I'll most likely be checking out more work from Faison.
This book was really cute. I went into it without reading the first in the interconnected series, and although I perhaps would have had a stronger connection to the characters if I had, I found myself perfectly invested and clear on backstory without that introduction.
There were many things about this book I found really wonderful. Maya and Ethan were both compelling and likable main characters, and the cast of secondary characters were quite fun as well. It dealt with some heavier issues that I think Faison handled really well, and gave this book more substance than a simple romance. The romance itself was sweet and sexy, and I found myself rooting for both our mcs the entire time.
This was by no means a groundbreaking piece of literature (in fact it struggled a bit with pacing, plot, and writing in my opinion), but if you're looking for a good, sweet, sexy time with a lot of heart, I definitely recommend giving this book a go. I'll most likely be checking out more work from Faison.
August 14, 2025
This book isn’t my cup of tea but I could see it being better for others! Almost DNF’d around 10% because I didn’t like the style, but stuck with it because it was a shorter read. It also looks more like a sports romance than it is - it’s definitely a college romance with like 5-10% of the story being about the MMC’s football career. If you want a sweet & spicy read with a couple funny moments, I think this would be worth a try.
The writing style was a big struggle for me. This book is mainly internal thoughts with dialogue, and almost no description of any locations or scenery. I prefer to be able to visualize every scene, but this gives enough to get invested in the story. It’s a predictable and surface level story, but I read far enough where I wanted to stick with it and find out what happens at the end. This is definitely a character/relationship driven book - there isn’t really a plot line besides the characters’ relationship. I did eat this book up in 2 days so there’s something to say for that!
Tropes: second chance romance, anxious MMC
Spice: 2/5
The writing style was a big struggle for me. This book is mainly internal thoughts with dialogue, and almost no description of any locations or scenery. I prefer to be able to visualize every scene, but this gives enough to get invested in the story. It’s a predictable and surface level story, but I read far enough where I wanted to stick with it and find out what happens at the end. This is definitely a character/relationship driven book - there isn’t really a plot line besides the characters’ relationship. I did eat this book up in 2 days so there’s something to say for that!
Tropes: second chance romance, anxious MMC
Spice: 2/5
August 16, 2025
Game Changer by Deanna Faison
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We all want to just hug Ethan and never let go, right? I love Deanna’s writing, it feels so real, and I can feel how the characters are feeling.
I loved Ethan and cheered him on the entire time as he worked through his anxiety to make amazing life choices. Understanding how, at times in life, anxiety can feel so debilitating, I appreciated how realistic his internal monologue was, even when it could be quite self-critical. Maya was so sweet, and I commend her for doing so much for her parents, but for a lot of the book, I was cheering her on and hyping her up to make choices that made her happy. When she and Ethan finally got together, I was so glad they had each other in their corners. I loved how much they helped each other through the hardships they faced in the book; the side characters were also amazing, and the friendships had me laughing alongside them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We all want to just hug Ethan and never let go, right? I love Deanna’s writing, it feels so real, and I can feel how the characters are feeling.
I loved Ethan and cheered him on the entire time as he worked through his anxiety to make amazing life choices. Understanding how, at times in life, anxiety can feel so debilitating, I appreciated how realistic his internal monologue was, even when it could be quite self-critical. Maya was so sweet, and I commend her for doing so much for her parents, but for a lot of the book, I was cheering her on and hyping her up to make choices that made her happy. When she and Ethan finally got together, I was so glad they had each other in their corners. I loved how much they helped each other through the hardships they faced in the book; the side characters were also amazing, and the friendships had me laughing alongside them.
August 19, 2025
4 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you to Wattpad Books for my copy!
Another great book by Deanna!
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the relationship between the two main characters. You could feel the tension between them and the spice was off the charts.
I felt so bad for Ethan because he struggled so much with his mental health and anxiety and I would get so frustrated with Maya because she wouldn't be honest with him (even though I understood her hestency).
I loved the cameos of the characters from book one and the introduction of more side characters was a lot of fun.
You get:
• Contemporary Romance
• Spicy
• Forced Proximity
• Ghosting
• Best Friend's Brother
• Anixety Representation
• HEA
I recommend this one! Available on ebook and paperback.
Thank you to Wattpad Books for my copy!
Another great book by Deanna!
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the relationship between the two main characters. You could feel the tension between them and the spice was off the charts.
I felt so bad for Ethan because he struggled so much with his mental health and anxiety and I would get so frustrated with Maya because she wouldn't be honest with him (even though I understood her hestency).
I loved the cameos of the characters from book one and the introduction of more side characters was a lot of fun.
You get:
• Contemporary Romance
• Spicy
• Forced Proximity
• Ghosting
• Best Friend's Brother
• Anixety Representation
• HEA
I recommend this one! Available on ebook and paperback.
August 24, 2025
Game Changer was a sweet endearing romance, and an easy read for me. I always find it fun to return to return to the same world as earlier books so it was nice to return to the same world as Playmaker.
I thought the anxiety rep was well done and appreciated how real both Maya and Ethan were as characters. Forced proximity is one of my favorite tropes and combined with a bit of a second chance romance trope was so fun and spicy!
3.5 stars because there was a bit of the misunderstanding trope in the book and I struggle with that trope.
Thanks W by Wattpad for the arc, all thoughts are mine.
I thought the anxiety rep was well done and appreciated how real both Maya and Ethan were as characters. Forced proximity is one of my favorite tropes and combined with a bit of a second chance romance trope was so fun and spicy!
3.5 stars because there was a bit of the misunderstanding trope in the book and I struggle with that trope.
Thanks W by Wattpad for the arc, all thoughts are mine.
October 1, 2025
3.5🧚🏻♀️
Ok definitivamente estuvo mucho mejor que el primero jaja, me gustó, le hubiera dado 4 o hasta 4.5 pero lo unico que me la baja mucho fue algunas palabras en “español” que definitivamente los mexicanos no decimos jaja😭 y aparte NO TIENE EPILOGO AAAHHHH, pero bueno, quitando eso, estuvo muy entretenido, y Ethan, que hombreeeee me encantó, me vi reflejado en él en muchas cosas, en fin, Ethan y Maya son muy lindos, estos si me gustaron mas❤️
Me gusta que se lee rapido, puntos por eso
NECESITO EL LIBRO DE TABI Y MARK URGENTEMENTE!!!
Ok definitivamente estuvo mucho mejor que el primero jaja, me gustó, le hubiera dado 4 o hasta 4.5 pero lo unico que me la baja mucho fue algunas palabras en “español” que definitivamente los mexicanos no decimos jaja😭 y aparte NO TIENE EPILOGO AAAHHHH, pero bueno, quitando eso, estuvo muy entretenido, y Ethan, que hombreeeee me encantó, me vi reflejado en él en muchas cosas, en fin, Ethan y Maya son muy lindos, estos si me gustaron mas❤️
Me gusta que se lee rapido, puntos por eso
NECESITO EL LIBRO DE TABI Y MARK URGENTEMENTE!!!
August 4, 2025
ARC Review NetGalley - 2.5⭐️
This book is so short but I really really struggled to get into it. The miscommunication trope and narrative about not being good enough for her parents was not my cup of tea and I did not enjoy reading about them both having such an identity crisis the whole time. The ending felt rushed, third act breakup was predictable because were they ever really doing well?
I really enjoyed the prior book in this series but this book did not float my boat.
This book is so short but I really really struggled to get into it. The miscommunication trope and narrative about not being good enough for her parents was not my cup of tea and I did not enjoy reading about them both having such an identity crisis the whole time. The ending felt rushed, third act breakup was predictable because were they ever really doing well?
I really enjoyed the prior book in this series but this book did not float my boat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2025
This is a sweet, heartfelt college romance. Ethan and Maya’s chemistry is full of yearning and tenderness, making their story impossible to put down. I appreciated the authentic portrayal of anxiety that was handled with care and depth. This is a charming sports romance that perfectly blends swoon worthy moments with emotional ones.
Thank you, Deanna Faison and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the ARC.
Thank you, Deanna Faison and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for the ARC.
December 8, 2025
I loved Deanna's first book, but this one fell flat for me. I recognize that I couldn't relate to the FMC at all and I didn't love that aspect, but the MMC has a lot of qualities I can relate to and redeemed a lot of the story for me. I will be reading more of her books because I know there will be another I love as much as I loved the first one!
October 18, 2025
Finished in less than 24 hours.
Deanna just writes books that have me hooked and gripped from the first word. I love a romance. I love friends to lovers.
Bravo again!
Deanna just writes books that have me hooked and gripped from the first word. I love a romance. I love friends to lovers.
Bravo again!
November 24, 2025
LOVE.
Ethan is a walking green flag with enough emotional depth to make a psychiatrist clap for him. He doesn’t “fix” her. He sees her. He listens. He stays. And the slow, steady way he loves her? It’s giving emotional CPR. He’s very “I’m not raising my voice, I’m raising the bar.” He’s the kind of character that makes you raise your standards without even realizing it.
Maya, her biggest struggle is literally her upbringing haunting her. You can feel how her parents’ emotional neglect shaped every part of her. The way she flinches at affection, the way she expects disappointment, the way stability almost makes her nervous. It’s not dramatic for drama’s sake; it’s raw and quiet and painfully familiar if you’ve ever grown up walking on eggshells.
So when she leaves him with no explanation in the beginning? It’s not because she doesn’t care. STAY WITH ME on that. It’s because she cares too much and it terrifies her. She’s been raised to think connection is dangerous, that needing someone is a weakness, that love is a trap, and that Ethan isn’t enough for her because he’s “average & smokes weed.” Her parents taught her survival, not safety. So the moment she feels something real brewing with him, her whole nervous system goes:
“Nope. Too good. Too scary. Hide.”
And she runs. Hard.
And the ETHAN… the way he handles that?
Ugh. It’s so mature it actually makes you want to scream. He’s hurt — of course he is — but he doesn’t weaponize it. He doesn’t chase or guilt trip. He steps back, lets her breathe, but he doesn’t shut the door on her either. He’s steady in this quiet, grounding way that shows he’s frustrated but still soft with her, still hopeful.
PLS DO READ THIS BOOK.
I’m not kidding. it is such a genuine treat, like one of those accidentally-perfect moments in life where everything just hits the right spot. It’s packed with real emotion, but not the cheap, performative kind. I mean the gut-level, “oh wow I see myself in this” type of emotion that sneaks up on you and sits heavy in your chest in the best way.
This story doesn’t just give you romance. It gives you people. Flawed, confused, hopeful, scared, stubborn, loving people navigating their mess with so much heart you can’t help but root for them.
The writing feels like overhearing two souls fall in love in real time.
There’s no fake drama. No forced twists. It’s honest. It’s intimate. It’s intentional. You can feel every insecurity, every tiny moment of growth, every time they almost get it right and then fumble because, hello, they’re human.
And the way their connection builds?
It’s so slow and tender it almost feels voyeuristic. Like you’re peeking into something real, something you’re not supposed to witness but can’t look away from because it’s so beautifully human.
The author doesn’t rush their healing.
She actually gives space for the hurt, the trauma, the conversations they don’t know how to have. And instead of love magically fixing everything, she shows how love gives them the COURAGE to fix themselves.
That’s rare. That’s special. That’s what makes this book feel like a hug and a heartbreak at the same time.
Ethan is a walking green flag with enough emotional depth to make a psychiatrist clap for him. He doesn’t “fix” her. He sees her. He listens. He stays. And the slow, steady way he loves her? It’s giving emotional CPR. He’s very “I’m not raising my voice, I’m raising the bar.” He’s the kind of character that makes you raise your standards without even realizing it.
Maya, her biggest struggle is literally her upbringing haunting her. You can feel how her parents’ emotional neglect shaped every part of her. The way she flinches at affection, the way she expects disappointment, the way stability almost makes her nervous. It’s not dramatic for drama’s sake; it’s raw and quiet and painfully familiar if you’ve ever grown up walking on eggshells.
So when she leaves him with no explanation in the beginning? It’s not because she doesn’t care. STAY WITH ME on that. It’s because she cares too much and it terrifies her. She’s been raised to think connection is dangerous, that needing someone is a weakness, that love is a trap, and that Ethan isn’t enough for her because he’s “average & smokes weed.” Her parents taught her survival, not safety. So the moment she feels something real brewing with him, her whole nervous system goes:
“Nope. Too good. Too scary. Hide.”
And she runs. Hard.
And the ETHAN… the way he handles that?
Ugh. It’s so mature it actually makes you want to scream. He’s hurt — of course he is — but he doesn’t weaponize it. He doesn’t chase or guilt trip. He steps back, lets her breathe, but he doesn’t shut the door on her either. He’s steady in this quiet, grounding way that shows he’s frustrated but still soft with her, still hopeful.
PLS DO READ THIS BOOK.
I’m not kidding. it is such a genuine treat, like one of those accidentally-perfect moments in life where everything just hits the right spot. It’s packed with real emotion, but not the cheap, performative kind. I mean the gut-level, “oh wow I see myself in this” type of emotion that sneaks up on you and sits heavy in your chest in the best way.
This story doesn’t just give you romance. It gives you people. Flawed, confused, hopeful, scared, stubborn, loving people navigating their mess with so much heart you can’t help but root for them.
The writing feels like overhearing two souls fall in love in real time.
There’s no fake drama. No forced twists. It’s honest. It’s intimate. It’s intentional. You can feel every insecurity, every tiny moment of growth, every time they almost get it right and then fumble because, hello, they’re human.
And the way their connection builds?
It’s so slow and tender it almost feels voyeuristic. Like you’re peeking into something real, something you’re not supposed to witness but can’t look away from because it’s so beautifully human.
The author doesn’t rush their healing.
She actually gives space for the hurt, the trauma, the conversations they don’t know how to have. And instead of love magically fixing everything, she shows how love gives them the COURAGE to fix themselves.
That’s rare. That’s special. That’s what makes this book feel like a hug and a heartbreak at the same time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2025
“Your skin care routine is right up there with your fascination with The Bachelor.” -Ethan Davis
I thought nothing could beat my love of Playmaker but boy this book was so good I couldn't put it down!
Ethan has had a crush on Maya, his sister Maddie's best friend, for years and finally he did something about it only for Maya to then blank him for five years.
When they reconnect the spark is still there but they're both going through a lot.
Will that spark fizzle out or will it draw them back together?
The sequel to Playmaker and just as amazing and gripping.
I couldn't stop reading, Ethan and Maya's story was so intrecut and twisty that I couldn't not turn the page and find out what happened next.
Similar to book one I breezed through each chapter due to them being short and sweet. They flowed into one another so well, which is a testament to Deanna's incredible writing ability.
She's able to bring each scene, each character, each moment to life in the readers head.
I liked Maya in this book, she had a good depth to her. She had dreams and aspirations but was scared of letting her parents down and doing something that would make them disappointed in her. She wanted to be a cosmetology student and study to her a hair dresser but her parents wanted a lawyer daughter so she studied business. Yet, she found a way to continue to learn and grow doing what made her happy.
I loved her friendship with Tabi, I'm praying we get Tabi and Mark's book next because Deanna, I need them to get a happy ending!!
Ethan had a lot of layers to him. He went through a lot before this book and so we see this darker side of him when the book starts. He's lost and not sure what he plans to do with his life or how he'll find it. But over the course of the book we see him come into his own as a coach. This side of him, a happy and proud side, comes to light and suddenly Ethan was my favourite character. His strength showed just how incredible he was, he crushed through his pain to be there for the people that needed him. And when it mattered most he let those people in, and in return he was there for them in their darkest moments.
I loved his banter with Leo, and I hope we see more of them in future books.
I loved Maya and Ethan's relationship. It felt real!
In so many romance books nowadays(especially YA Romance) the relationship feels very fake. But Ethan and Maya were raw, emotional, they got mad they had fights. they had moments where they stepped up and defended each other. They had the cute reunion.
They were real, and it made the book even more enjoyable.
Overall I absolutely loved this book and hope we get more from Deanna in the future.
I thought nothing could beat my love of Playmaker but boy this book was so good I couldn't put it down!
Ethan has had a crush on Maya, his sister Maddie's best friend, for years and finally he did something about it only for Maya to then blank him for five years.
When they reconnect the spark is still there but they're both going through a lot.
Will that spark fizzle out or will it draw them back together?
The sequel to Playmaker and just as amazing and gripping.
I couldn't stop reading, Ethan and Maya's story was so intrecut and twisty that I couldn't not turn the page and find out what happened next.
Similar to book one I breezed through each chapter due to them being short and sweet. They flowed into one another so well, which is a testament to Deanna's incredible writing ability.
She's able to bring each scene, each character, each moment to life in the readers head.
I liked Maya in this book, she had a good depth to her. She had dreams and aspirations but was scared of letting her parents down and doing something that would make them disappointed in her. She wanted to be a cosmetology student and study to her a hair dresser but her parents wanted a lawyer daughter so she studied business. Yet, she found a way to continue to learn and grow doing what made her happy.
I loved her friendship with Tabi, I'm praying we get Tabi and Mark's book next because Deanna, I need them to get a happy ending!!
Ethan had a lot of layers to him. He went through a lot before this book and so we see this darker side of him when the book starts. He's lost and not sure what he plans to do with his life or how he'll find it. But over the course of the book we see him come into his own as a coach. This side of him, a happy and proud side, comes to light and suddenly Ethan was my favourite character. His strength showed just how incredible he was, he crushed through his pain to be there for the people that needed him. And when it mattered most he let those people in, and in return he was there for them in their darkest moments.
I loved his banter with Leo, and I hope we see more of them in future books.
I loved Maya and Ethan's relationship. It felt real!
In so many romance books nowadays(especially YA Romance) the relationship feels very fake. But Ethan and Maya were raw, emotional, they got mad they had fights. they had moments where they stepped up and defended each other. They had the cute reunion.
They were real, and it made the book even more enjoyable.
Overall I absolutely loved this book and hope we get more from Deanna in the future.
August 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was so excited to get more of Ethan and Maya in Game Changer by Deanne Faison. Hidden in Attraction book 2 gave us more of the relationship we got a glimpse of in book 1. It is obvious that Deanne has put so much heart and passion into developing these two and their story. With the obvious chemistry, the witty banter, and the complex relationships her books are ones that I can’t put down when I start them. I loved how these two grew into their feelings for each other and the perspective that she gave Ethan. Men struggle too and it was amazing seeing that in this book.
Ethan is an amazing character. He struggles with body image. He doesn’t mean to, but constantly compares himself to his friends at school and not being as muscular or toned as they are. I loved reading this and feel it is something not mentioned often enough in romance novels. The body positivity is strong in this book! However, he never let these struggles flow to others. He celebrated other’s sexuality and sensuality. I loved that while he struggled, he didn’t dim others' lights.
Maya is the girl on campus that every guy wants to be with and she could have her pick. Getting the flashback into her and Ethan’s original hookup helped shed light and made their relationship more intriguing. She has secrets of her own, which almost ruin her chances with Ethan. She is strong and assured and I adore how she stands up for herself when needed.
Deanne writing style is wonderful and I am excited for more in this series. The books can be read as standalones, but I highly recommend reading book 1 for a more rounded picture of other characters you meet in this book. You will love it! The couple that is hinted at for book 3 is going to be amazing and I am hoping we don’t have to wait long to get their story!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏈Unavoidable Proximity
🧡Sports Romance
🏈Sister’s Best Friend
🧡Friends to Lovers
🏈Second Chance Romance
🧡College Romance
I was so excited to get more of Ethan and Maya in Game Changer by Deanne Faison. Hidden in Attraction book 2 gave us more of the relationship we got a glimpse of in book 1. It is obvious that Deanne has put so much heart and passion into developing these two and their story. With the obvious chemistry, the witty banter, and the complex relationships her books are ones that I can’t put down when I start them. I loved how these two grew into their feelings for each other and the perspective that she gave Ethan. Men struggle too and it was amazing seeing that in this book.
Ethan is an amazing character. He struggles with body image. He doesn’t mean to, but constantly compares himself to his friends at school and not being as muscular or toned as they are. I loved reading this and feel it is something not mentioned often enough in romance novels. The body positivity is strong in this book! However, he never let these struggles flow to others. He celebrated other’s sexuality and sensuality. I loved that while he struggled, he didn’t dim others' lights.
Maya is the girl on campus that every guy wants to be with and she could have her pick. Getting the flashback into her and Ethan’s original hookup helped shed light and made their relationship more intriguing. She has secrets of her own, which almost ruin her chances with Ethan. She is strong and assured and I adore how she stands up for herself when needed.
Deanne writing style is wonderful and I am excited for more in this series. The books can be read as standalones, but I highly recommend reading book 1 for a more rounded picture of other characters you meet in this book. You will love it! The couple that is hinted at for book 3 is going to be amazing and I am hoping we don’t have to wait long to get their story!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏈Unavoidable Proximity
🧡Sports Romance
🏈Sister’s Best Friend
🧡Friends to Lovers
🏈Second Chance Romance
🧡College Romance
August 18, 2025
Game Changer is book 2 in the Hidden Attractions series and it can read entirely fine as a standalone. I really loved Playmaker when I read it earlier this year so I was really excited for this one and it didn't disappoint. As soon as I started it I was hooked, obsessing over Ethan and Maya. I couldn't put it down, I devoured this one in 2 sittings. They are just such great characters and I loved following their journey. This is a very character driven/relationship driven storyline which I found myself truly enjoying. I just loved navigating their past and present relationship with them, seeing them evolve through it.
Ethan is a very insecure MMC but for me it worked in this book, I thought the author approached it well and made him relatable. I didn't find it annoying and it didn't make him feel less attractive to me. I actually saw myself in him, with my insecurities and anxiety. He was an absolute sweetheart, the way he cares for Maya, the sweet things he does for her… he made my heart melt 🫠 Maya is a firecracker, I loved her confident energy and the way she always made her man feel wanted and boosted his confidence. Their chemistry was absolutely off the charts, their banter was so much fun, the messiness of it all felt real and both character growths were great. It just had the right balance of everything for me.
Overall, this was a fun, sweet and cute college sports romance that made me fall in love with another fictional couple that I won't forget about. I loved how relatable the characters were, how the author brought the heart and the heat to the storyline. I can't wait to see what she writes next 😍
✨ ️ Thank you to @wbywattpad & @deannafaison for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ethan is a very insecure MMC but for me it worked in this book, I thought the author approached it well and made him relatable. I didn't find it annoying and it didn't make him feel less attractive to me. I actually saw myself in him, with my insecurities and anxiety. He was an absolute sweetheart, the way he cares for Maya, the sweet things he does for her… he made my heart melt 🫠 Maya is a firecracker, I loved her confident energy and the way she always made her man feel wanted and boosted his confidence. Their chemistry was absolutely off the charts, their banter was so much fun, the messiness of it all felt real and both character growths were great. It just had the right balance of everything for me.
Overall, this was a fun, sweet and cute college sports romance that made me fall in love with another fictional couple that I won't forget about. I loved how relatable the characters were, how the author brought the heart and the heat to the storyline. I can't wait to see what she writes next 😍
✨ ️ Thank you to @wbywattpad & @deannafaison for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2025
I just finished Game Changer by Deanna Faison and here are my musings.
Ethan is done with the frat boy lifestyle and wants to turn his life around and to finally get over the girl who has had his heart for years but what he doesn’t expect to see is the girl of his dreams… on campus… Living next door to him.
Maya is glad to be away from her overbearing parents. Finding her best friend's brother living next door, she sets about fixing their friendship. The trouble is she still feels things for him too but going against her parents… Wasn’t something she was willing to do.. Before.
This one comes in both Ethan’s and Maya’s POV and it works really well. I am well known for my distaste for multiple POVs but it was necessary in this book and worked really well. It rounded out the story really well.
I really enjoyed the banter between the pair of them. It built this beautiful will they or won’t they tension that I couldn’t get enough of. Ethan was left reeling when Maya ghosted him and you can see how hard it is for him to stay away from her when he is still feeling so raw but he is really protective of her and it’s super sonic cute.
They have really nice chemistry and watching Ethan trying to grow up from the boy he was, while Maya is trying to do right by her parents while finding herself made for a really entertaining story. I liked the messiness. Not one person isn’t in some area of their lives so this was refreshing. It was really character driven and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
4 stars
Thank you to @wattpad and @deannafaison for my gifted copy
Ethan is done with the frat boy lifestyle and wants to turn his life around and to finally get over the girl who has had his heart for years but what he doesn’t expect to see is the girl of his dreams… on campus… Living next door to him.
Maya is glad to be away from her overbearing parents. Finding her best friend's brother living next door, she sets about fixing their friendship. The trouble is she still feels things for him too but going against her parents… Wasn’t something she was willing to do.. Before.
This one comes in both Ethan’s and Maya’s POV and it works really well. I am well known for my distaste for multiple POVs but it was necessary in this book and worked really well. It rounded out the story really well.
I really enjoyed the banter between the pair of them. It built this beautiful will they or won’t they tension that I couldn’t get enough of. Ethan was left reeling when Maya ghosted him and you can see how hard it is for him to stay away from her when he is still feeling so raw but he is really protective of her and it’s super sonic cute.
They have really nice chemistry and watching Ethan trying to grow up from the boy he was, while Maya is trying to do right by her parents while finding herself made for a really entertaining story. I liked the messiness. Not one person isn’t in some area of their lives so this was refreshing. It was really character driven and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
4 stars
Thank you to @wattpad and @deannafaison for my gifted copy
August 26, 2025
Thank you to Wattpad Webtoon Book Group and NetGalley for the ARC of Game Changer in exchange for an honest review.
Deanna Faison is back again with her follow up book to Playmaker, one of my favorite reads of last year. The Hidden Attraction series is shaping up to be one of my favorite romance series, which is a bold claim indeed, Cotton (who doesn’t love a good Dodgeball reference).
Game Changer focuses on Ethan and Maya’s story. Ethan is the bother of Maddie from book one and is Cam’s best friend from book one. Maya just so happens to be Maddie’s best friend and Ethan’s lifelong crush. Five months ago, the inevitable finally happened and Maya and Ethan sealed the deal. However, shortly after their hook up, Maya completely ghosts Ethan, sending him into an anxious spiral left wondering where he went wrong. Fast forward five months, Ethan and Maya find themselves both enrolled at State for college and are determined to find themselves in the process. As fate would have it, they end up living next to each other in the dorm, which makes the avoidance impossible. In the coming months, Ethan and Maya will rekindle their connection and not only find their own passion, but possibly find their way back to each other.
Gosh, I love this series so much. I have a solid idea who book 3 will focus on, but I won’t give any spoilers here. Game Changer is a fast paced read that has dialogue flowing naturally and lovable characters for days. I also enjoy just how much our characters from Playmaker are wrapped up in this second book. Such an adorable read! I cannot wait to get my hands on book 3 of this series!
Deanna Faison is back again with her follow up book to Playmaker, one of my favorite reads of last year. The Hidden Attraction series is shaping up to be one of my favorite romance series, which is a bold claim indeed, Cotton (who doesn’t love a good Dodgeball reference).
Game Changer focuses on Ethan and Maya’s story. Ethan is the bother of Maddie from book one and is Cam’s best friend from book one. Maya just so happens to be Maddie’s best friend and Ethan’s lifelong crush. Five months ago, the inevitable finally happened and Maya and Ethan sealed the deal. However, shortly after their hook up, Maya completely ghosts Ethan, sending him into an anxious spiral left wondering where he went wrong. Fast forward five months, Ethan and Maya find themselves both enrolled at State for college and are determined to find themselves in the process. As fate would have it, they end up living next to each other in the dorm, which makes the avoidance impossible. In the coming months, Ethan and Maya will rekindle their connection and not only find their own passion, but possibly find their way back to each other.
Gosh, I love this series so much. I have a solid idea who book 3 will focus on, but I won’t give any spoilers here. Game Changer is a fast paced read that has dialogue flowing naturally and lovable characters for days. I also enjoy just how much our characters from Playmaker are wrapped up in this second book. Such an adorable read! I cannot wait to get my hands on book 3 of this series!
August 19, 2025
"Because sometimes, the girl has to chase the guy, and I'm totally all right with that."
For a YA/college setting, this book was surprisingly great and so relatable?! It was such a raw, emotional but sweet story between Ethan and Maya. I am also such a sucker for forbidden / any type of family member's best friend so this ate in that regard.
I actually devoured this book. The forced proximity + the chemistry + the yearning + the spice made for such a unputdownable read. I loved it, it was so good.
Ethan, my heart, I just wanted to hug him and tell him that he is exactly who he is meant to be and theres nothing wrong with him. The way he shows up for Maya after everything is such a green fkn flag. And at the same time, I wanted Ethan to myself cause ummmm excuse me dirty boy?! He had a mouth on him that I was lovinggggggg very much! Maya you are one lucky gal!!
Also, I loved the flashbacks and getting the glimpses of how Ethan and Maya came to be and their banter with each other was perfect. The fact that she was all for him and he was so oblivious yet also so in love with her was the cutest thing. And her being his teacher!!!???! Girl, I applaud you like yes ma'am!!!
This was a book all about growth, finding yourself and living out your dreams and I highly recommend the read. Thank you NetGalley, Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group and Deanna Faison for the arc!
• Second Chance
• Sister's Best Friend
• Forbidden Romance
• Forced Proximity
• Friends to Lovers
• College Setting
• Dual POV
Spice level: ♥ ♥ ♥ ½
For a YA/college setting, this book was surprisingly great and so relatable?! It was such a raw, emotional but sweet story between Ethan and Maya. I am also such a sucker for forbidden / any type of family member's best friend so this ate in that regard.
I actually devoured this book. The forced proximity + the chemistry + the yearning + the spice made for such a unputdownable read. I loved it, it was so good.
Ethan, my heart, I just wanted to hug him and tell him that he is exactly who he is meant to be and theres nothing wrong with him. The way he shows up for Maya after everything is such a green fkn flag. And at the same time, I wanted Ethan to myself cause ummmm excuse me dirty boy?! He had a mouth on him that I was lovinggggggg very much! Maya you are one lucky gal!!
Also, I loved the flashbacks and getting the glimpses of how Ethan and Maya came to be and their banter with each other was perfect. The fact that she was all for him and he was so oblivious yet also so in love with her was the cutest thing. And her being his teacher!!!???! Girl, I applaud you like yes ma'am!!!
This was a book all about growth, finding yourself and living out your dreams and I highly recommend the read. Thank you NetGalley, Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group and Deanna Faison for the arc!
• Second Chance
• Sister's Best Friend
• Forbidden Romance
• Forced Proximity
• Friends to Lovers
• College Setting
• Dual POV
Spice level: ♥ ♥ ♥ ½
August 3, 2025
"Game Changer" by Deanna Faison is a compelling romance that intertwines themes of personal growth, second chances, and the pressures of familial expectations. The story follows Ethan Davis, who seeks to shed his past reputation and embrace a new chapter in his life by coaching a youth football team at college. However, things take an unexpected turn when Maya Garcia, a woman from his past with whom he shared a brief but impactful connection, moves in next door.
The novel delves into Ethan's journey of self-reconstruction as he navigates his new responsibilities and attempts to build a life that reflects his true self. Maya, on the other hand, grapples with the balance between her desire for independence and her commitment to her overprotective family. Their paths cross in a way that forces both characters to confront their feelings and the choices they must make about their futures.
Faison skillfully explores the complexity of relationships and the fear of vulnerability that often accompanies love. The chemistry between Ethan and Maya is palpable, and their struggles resonate with anyone who has ever faced the challenge of letting someone back into their heart.
Overall, "Game Changer" is a heartfelt story that emphasizes the importance of taking risks in love and life, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. This book made me laugh, made me cry I loved every minute of it and hope there’s more to this series because I’m all in!!!!🫶🫶🫶
The novel delves into Ethan's journey of self-reconstruction as he navigates his new responsibilities and attempts to build a life that reflects his true self. Maya, on the other hand, grapples with the balance between her desire for independence and her commitment to her overprotective family. Their paths cross in a way that forces both characters to confront their feelings and the choices they must make about their futures.
Faison skillfully explores the complexity of relationships and the fear of vulnerability that often accompanies love. The chemistry between Ethan and Maya is palpable, and their struggles resonate with anyone who has ever faced the challenge of letting someone back into their heart.
Overall, "Game Changer" is a heartfelt story that emphasizes the importance of taking risks in love and life, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. This book made me laugh, made me cry I loved every minute of it and hope there’s more to this series because I’m all in!!!!🫶🫶🫶
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