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Play The Last Card
Play the Last Card is a contemporary sports romance, and book one in the Boston Broncos duet. A down bad NFL player, a reluctant football-hating teacher, hidden identities, a secret relationship, and the invisible string that pulls them together…what more could you need? Choose it for the tropes, stay for the undeniable, chemistry-filled romance between Ivy and Scott, as they overcome loss and grief, a complicated relationship with football, lies and betrayal, and embrace the kind of love that is forever.
Ivy Booker
I’ve lived in Boston my entire life. I like it here, it’s quiet and lowkey. My world is all sugary Starbucks drinks, watching reruns of Friends, and playing cards with Pops on Sundays. One thing I don’t love? Football.
Despite my family being football royalty, I swore off the sport a long time ago. I am much happier without it. Or I thought I was. Everything changed when a guy walked into my bar one summer's night.
Scott Harvey
Football is my everything. Coming to Boston wasn’t my number one choice but I’m chasing a ring and signing with the Broncos was my best chance. It’s a one year deal with a penthouse apartment. Easy. After all, I am the highest paid starting QB in the league.
I just want to play football and get out of this town. I didn’t count on getting a glimpse of my dream girl working at a sports bar. She hates football though.
Lucky for me, she has no idea who I am …
Play The Last Card is a standalone sports & contemporary romance. It is Olivia Fenwick's debut novel.
Ivy Booker
I’ve lived in Boston my entire life. I like it here, it’s quiet and lowkey. My world is all sugary Starbucks drinks, watching reruns of Friends, and playing cards with Pops on Sundays. One thing I don’t love? Football.
Despite my family being football royalty, I swore off the sport a long time ago. I am much happier without it. Or I thought I was. Everything changed when a guy walked into my bar one summer's night.
Scott Harvey
Football is my everything. Coming to Boston wasn’t my number one choice but I’m chasing a ring and signing with the Broncos was my best chance. It’s a one year deal with a penthouse apartment. Easy. After all, I am the highest paid starting QB in the league.
I just want to play football and get out of this town. I didn’t count on getting a glimpse of my dream girl working at a sports bar. She hates football though.
Lucky for me, she has no idea who I am …
Play The Last Card is a standalone sports & contemporary romance. It is Olivia Fenwick's debut novel.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 22, 2024
17 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
December 20, 2024
This book was so so good! This is the perfect rom-com book that still hits on some hard topics (grief, anxiety, extc…) I think the relationship between Scott and Ivy was just a touch of “instalove” without being too much. I love the string/tether concept and how it was touched on in this story. Beautiful debut 👏🏽👏🏽. This is the perfect romantic comedy with a touch of football/sports romance as well.
December 9, 2024
Wow, wow, wow! What a debut 👏🏻
Play the Last Card had that classic, easy read rom-com vibe we all know and love, with the perfect sprinkle of spice. Throw in the slightly harder topics (no spoilers here 🤭), and it made a very memorable read. I loved Scott and Ivy and watch them grow together. Their chemistry was instant but believable, and I spent the whole time rooting for them.
I read this entire book in one afternoon, and I cried twice, which really made it an instant 5 star read for me. I truly can't wait to read whatever Olivia writes next, this was a standout debut and I was impressed from page one.
Play The Last Card releases December 22nd 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you endlessly to @oliviafenwick and @bookishbubblypr for this ARC!
Play the Last Card had that classic, easy read rom-com vibe we all know and love, with the perfect sprinkle of spice. Throw in the slightly harder topics (no spoilers here 🤭), and it made a very memorable read. I loved Scott and Ivy and watch them grow together. Their chemistry was instant but believable, and I spent the whole time rooting for them.
I read this entire book in one afternoon, and I cried twice, which really made it an instant 5 star read for me. I truly can't wait to read whatever Olivia writes next, this was a standout debut and I was impressed from page one.
Play The Last Card releases December 22nd 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you endlessly to @oliviafenwick and @bookishbubblypr for this ARC!
December 21, 2024
Thank you so much Author Olivia Fenwick, for giving me the chance to delve into your new upcoming sports romance novel-
“Play The Last Card”
4.8⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨read!!! This book has left me edging for more & more! The characters are so beautifully written and the story is engaging from start to finish. I loved the way the author brought together the perfect mix of tropes - Duo POV, secret relationship, broody x sunshine, and NFL sports romance etc.
Each one is skillfully woven into the narrative to create a story that's both heartwarming and captivating and inspiring along emotional! That you’re able to feel a deep connection to each character in this book and especially with its touching invisible string theory involved throughout this! You don’t want the story to end!🥹🩷✨
“Play The last Card,” Stars two lovely characters-
(Ivy Booker🌷 & Scott Harvey🏈)
Author Olivia Fenwick, brings us into a captivating world where-
Ivy Booker my favorite girlie🩷✨spent her whole life in Boston, where quiet rhythm is her pleasure. Her world revolved around sweet Starbucks treats✨ Friends reruns every there & there, and lazy Sundays playing cards with her lovely Pops🥹♥️ But there was one thing she couldn't stand which is Football. Despite her family's legacy in the sport, she'd lost interest completely!! She began to realize ife was better without it. But that was until a stranger walked into her bar on a summer evening and her whole world shifted and that’s when the amazing Olivia Fenwick, introduces us to my new golden retriever lover boy-
Scott Harvey, Football is his beautiful passion✨
Although Boston wasn't his preferred destination, his chances to win a championship with the Broncos was definitely too good to pass up. The perks of it doesn’t hurt either - a one-year contract and a penthouse apartment. Plus as the league's top-paid starting QB, he most definitely earned it all🤩 He's not just playing for the sake of it he's driven by ambition and passion but things starts to crash the day he saw her his dream girl✨working behind the bar at a sports pub every thought of his became blank and everything he wanted to know about her became a Canvas to paint all of her wildest dreams and to find out how this beautiful book comes turns out completely definitely read “Play The Last Card” Asap because not only does the Author create a fantastic plot she writes amazing characters that you will fall instantly in love with💫♥️
My girl Ivy🌼 is a kindergarten teacher with a vibrant yet fiery personality that captures Scott’s heart instantly and has a sunshine persona and loving heart that engrosses you more into her character! as she embodies emotional moments throughout her childhood that the Author embraces profoundly. Each chapter you get to see her grow into someone even more stronger and unique bringing more essence to her beautiful characteristics. Especially as she shares her emotional experiences with Scott, her strength and resilience shine through, making her even more lovable. Her love for Scott is pure and heartfelt, and the way they adore and protect each other is a joy to behold🥹✨
Scott, my sweetheart book boyfriend💋✨
Is a professional NFL player, who happens to have a personality that shines brighter than the sun, always offering a comforting presence and a reassuring smile, his thoughtfulness and attractive nature makes him a treasure to admire 24/7🥹the way he cares for Ivy, with his charming and beautiful qualities make him impossible not to adorn💫the way he shows up for her during tough times, is truly remarkable and inspiring!! always being there to make sure she has the love she deserves and needs in every way and aspect there can be🥹🌸 and I couldn’t love him any more.
Olivia Fenwick, creates such a lovely tale and I can’t wait for more in the future🤩
“Whatever happens now I want to make the plan with you. Only with you. Always with you.” -Scott Harvey💋✨
Pre-Order
“Play The Last Card”
Releasing December 22nd
Now for a sports romance that you won’t forget!✨🏈
And you can do just that by visiting the Author’s social media @olivafenwickauthor ON IG and also get the chance to view teasers and character artwork and more exciting things🤩
“Play The Last Card”
4.8⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨read!!! This book has left me edging for more & more! The characters are so beautifully written and the story is engaging from start to finish. I loved the way the author brought together the perfect mix of tropes - Duo POV, secret relationship, broody x sunshine, and NFL sports romance etc.
Each one is skillfully woven into the narrative to create a story that's both heartwarming and captivating and inspiring along emotional! That you’re able to feel a deep connection to each character in this book and especially with its touching invisible string theory involved throughout this! You don’t want the story to end!🥹🩷✨
“Play The last Card,” Stars two lovely characters-
(Ivy Booker🌷 & Scott Harvey🏈)
Author Olivia Fenwick, brings us into a captivating world where-
Ivy Booker my favorite girlie🩷✨spent her whole life in Boston, where quiet rhythm is her pleasure. Her world revolved around sweet Starbucks treats✨ Friends reruns every there & there, and lazy Sundays playing cards with her lovely Pops🥹♥️ But there was one thing she couldn't stand which is Football. Despite her family's legacy in the sport, she'd lost interest completely!! She began to realize ife was better without it. But that was until a stranger walked into her bar on a summer evening and her whole world shifted and that’s when the amazing Olivia Fenwick, introduces us to my new golden retriever lover boy-
Scott Harvey, Football is his beautiful passion✨
Although Boston wasn't his preferred destination, his chances to win a championship with the Broncos was definitely too good to pass up. The perks of it doesn’t hurt either - a one-year contract and a penthouse apartment. Plus as the league's top-paid starting QB, he most definitely earned it all🤩 He's not just playing for the sake of it he's driven by ambition and passion but things starts to crash the day he saw her his dream girl✨working behind the bar at a sports pub every thought of his became blank and everything he wanted to know about her became a Canvas to paint all of her wildest dreams and to find out how this beautiful book comes turns out completely definitely read “Play The Last Card” Asap because not only does the Author create a fantastic plot she writes amazing characters that you will fall instantly in love with💫♥️
My girl Ivy🌼 is a kindergarten teacher with a vibrant yet fiery personality that captures Scott’s heart instantly and has a sunshine persona and loving heart that engrosses you more into her character! as she embodies emotional moments throughout her childhood that the Author embraces profoundly. Each chapter you get to see her grow into someone even more stronger and unique bringing more essence to her beautiful characteristics. Especially as she shares her emotional experiences with Scott, her strength and resilience shine through, making her even more lovable. Her love for Scott is pure and heartfelt, and the way they adore and protect each other is a joy to behold🥹✨
Scott, my sweetheart book boyfriend💋✨
Is a professional NFL player, who happens to have a personality that shines brighter than the sun, always offering a comforting presence and a reassuring smile, his thoughtfulness and attractive nature makes him a treasure to admire 24/7🥹the way he cares for Ivy, with his charming and beautiful qualities make him impossible not to adorn💫the way he shows up for her during tough times, is truly remarkable and inspiring!! always being there to make sure she has the love she deserves and needs in every way and aspect there can be🥹🌸 and I couldn’t love him any more.
Olivia Fenwick, creates such a lovely tale and I can’t wait for more in the future🤩
“Whatever happens now I want to make the plan with you. Only with you. Always with you.” -Scott Harvey💋✨
Pre-Order
“Play The Last Card”
Releasing December 22nd
Now for a sports romance that you won’t forget!✨🏈
And you can do just that by visiting the Author’s social media @olivafenwickauthor ON IG and also get the chance to view teasers and character artwork and more exciting things🤩
December 9, 2024
Here’s what I liked about this one: Scott was an incredibly patient and persistent MMC. He went above and beyond for Ivy every time and he tried so hard to make them work. Katie was a really great BFF and was always checking in on Ivy. Lastly, Ivy & her grandpa’s relationship was so sweet and I could feel how much love they had for each other. In the end, there were a lot of scenes that I loved and definitely a few I LOLed at. The HEA was a plus too.
🚨‼️🚨‼️SPOILER ALERT🚨 ‼️🚨‼️
I had 2 big hang ups with this book: first off, Ivy’s anxiety and avoidance around football felt like…too much. I understood where she was coming from about wanting to avoid the feelings of people knowing her father better than she did, it being a reminder of what she lost, etc. I can even understand in her daily life wanting to leave the room if a game is on or someone wants to talk about football. BUT, your grandpa, who you love SO much is dying and his last wish is to watch a football game and she almost doesn’t make that happen because she doesn’t want to be around football?? Her boyfriend, who she’s in love with, has to go to the hospital and when the paparazzi are down the hall, she runs away without even saying a word to him?? It all just felt too dramatic to me.
Secondly, there’s THREE breakups on this book. I barely like a 3rd act breakup that’s quickly resolved but we have ❗️3❗️ in this book. It was too much. Then at like 96% in, ivy FINALLY decided to go see a therapist about her grief. I felt like the story would have been more enjoyable if that would have happened in the first 50% of the book.
🚨‼️🚨‼️SPOILER ALERT🚨 ‼️🚨‼️
I had 2 big hang ups with this book: first off, Ivy’s anxiety and avoidance around football felt like…too much. I understood where she was coming from about wanting to avoid the feelings of people knowing her father better than she did, it being a reminder of what she lost, etc. I can even understand in her daily life wanting to leave the room if a game is on or someone wants to talk about football. BUT, your grandpa, who you love SO much is dying and his last wish is to watch a football game and she almost doesn’t make that happen because she doesn’t want to be around football?? Her boyfriend, who she’s in love with, has to go to the hospital and when the paparazzi are down the hall, she runs away without even saying a word to him?? It all just felt too dramatic to me.
Secondly, there’s THREE breakups on this book. I barely like a 3rd act breakup that’s quickly resolved but we have ❗️3❗️ in this book. It was too much. Then at like 96% in, ivy FINALLY decided to go see a therapist about her grief. I felt like the story would have been more enjoyable if that would have happened in the first 50% of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2025
3.75 stars
I have read a lot of sport romance books but I think this was actually one of the first football romance I have read since I mostly read hockey and baseball romance books. And honestly, this book was actually good💓.
When I tell you that this book took me on an emotional roller-coaster then I really mean it, I feel like I need compensation from the author for the different emotions she had me feeling.
All i can say is that I loveeeeee Scott so much.
Thank you BookishBubbly and author Olivia Fenwick for giving me this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I have read a lot of sport romance books but I think this was actually one of the first football romance I have read since I mostly read hockey and baseball romance books. And honestly, this book was actually good💓.
When I tell you that this book took me on an emotional roller-coaster then I really mean it, I feel like I need compensation from the author for the different emotions she had me feeling.
All i can say is that I loveeeeee Scott so much.
Thank you BookishBubbly and author Olivia Fenwick for giving me this arc in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2024
ARC read🥳
This was really good! I read it in one sitting because I just couldn't stop and wanted to find out what happens next. It was very engaging and interesting from the start😊
I liked the storyline and all the characters, especially Scott!! The way he was so down bad for our girl!😌
I throughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it🩷
This was really good! I read it in one sitting because I just couldn't stop and wanted to find out what happens next. It was very engaging and interesting from the start😊
I liked the storyline and all the characters, especially Scott!! The way he was so down bad for our girl!😌
I throughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it🩷
January 15, 2025
ARC review:
This book was incredibly wholesome. It’s one of the ones that makes you sad after you have finished it because you wanna read more. It has a great plot, very detailed and well planned out. Not much spice but it doesn’t need it. Everything Scott does it’s a green flag.
I do think that Ivy needs some character growth because her actions seem quite immature at times. I do wish that she got therapy sooner than written but better late than never.
Part of me is confused about Katie and Grant and their story but I’ll just have to wait.
Just to add a few notes I made while reading:
I wonder if their kids would have blue eyes like Ivy or green eyes like Scott
Immediately started crying during the first chapter since it hits close to home
Pops is an icon
I too like venti iced latte with 2 pumps of vanilla, a pump is sugar syrup and extra cold foam
Chapter 23 broke my heart
This book was incredibly wholesome. It’s one of the ones that makes you sad after you have finished it because you wanna read more. It has a great plot, very detailed and well planned out. Not much spice but it doesn’t need it. Everything Scott does it’s a green flag.
I do think that Ivy needs some character growth because her actions seem quite immature at times. I do wish that she got therapy sooner than written but better late than never.
Part of me is confused about Katie and Grant and their story but I’ll just have to wait.
Just to add a few notes I made while reading:
I wonder if their kids would have blue eyes like Ivy or green eyes like Scott
Immediately started crying during the first chapter since it hits close to home
Pops is an icon
I too like venti iced latte with 2 pumps of vanilla, a pump is sugar syrup and extra cold foam
Chapter 23 broke my heart
December 2, 2024
THIS BOOK.
Oh my heart this book. I laughed, I cried, I did lots of yelling all over my notes, I will never be the same.
I really cannot tell you the last time I cried solid tears over a book, and this one had me SOBBING more than once. Olivia broke my entire heart but it was so worth it.
I adore Scott and Ivy and I absolutely loved watching their story unfold. The characters are both so relatable in the way they feel their feelings and how they handle the situations that life brings them. I found myself totally understanding the choices they made, even when I wanted to yell at them for it. I think by the time I was done, I had highlighted almost half the darn book.
Play the Last Card has shot up to a top 10 read for me this year and I truly think it’s going to stay there for a long time.
If you like sweet, emotional sports romances with great banter and spice, this book is definitely for you.
Oh my heart this book. I laughed, I cried, I did lots of yelling all over my notes, I will never be the same.
I really cannot tell you the last time I cried solid tears over a book, and this one had me SOBBING more than once. Olivia broke my entire heart but it was so worth it.
I adore Scott and Ivy and I absolutely loved watching their story unfold. The characters are both so relatable in the way they feel their feelings and how they handle the situations that life brings them. I found myself totally understanding the choices they made, even when I wanted to yell at them for it. I think by the time I was done, I had highlighted almost half the darn book.
Play the Last Card has shot up to a top 10 read for me this year and I truly think it’s going to stay there for a long time.
If you like sweet, emotional sports romances with great banter and spice, this book is definitely for you.
January 15, 2025
Play The Last Card by Olivia Fenwick
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .5 / 5
🌶️/5
This book is for you if you like:
🌷 Secret Relationship
🌷 Broody x Sunshine
🌷 Multiple Breakups
🌷 NFL Sport Romance
🌷 He Falls First
“Sundays, playing cards and drinking coffee, will be what I miss most when he’s gone.”
This debut novel was so sweet. It’s giving romcom with a sprinkle of spice!
What a beautiful way to hit out with a debut novel like this. Ivy and Scott’s story is beautiful. A balance of romance, sport, spice, and challenging emotions such as grief and anxiety.
Scott is a huge green flag! I didn’t love the break ups, but that is because they aren’t usually my kind of thing, nothing to do with Olivia here!
A fluffy and easy romance read. I’d definitely no rely recommend this to anyone who loves romance or if you are wanting to start your reading journey!
Thank you Olivia and Bookish Bubbly PR for the opportunity to read this beautiful ARC 💜
Out now in both paperback and on Kindle Unlimited 📖
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .5 / 5
🌶️/5
This book is for you if you like:
🌷 Secret Relationship
🌷 Broody x Sunshine
🌷 Multiple Breakups
🌷 NFL Sport Romance
🌷 He Falls First
“Sundays, playing cards and drinking coffee, will be what I miss most when he’s gone.”
This debut novel was so sweet. It’s giving romcom with a sprinkle of spice!
What a beautiful way to hit out with a debut novel like this. Ivy and Scott’s story is beautiful. A balance of romance, sport, spice, and challenging emotions such as grief and anxiety.
Scott is a huge green flag! I didn’t love the break ups, but that is because they aren’t usually my kind of thing, nothing to do with Olivia here!
A fluffy and easy romance read. I’d definitely no rely recommend this to anyone who loves romance or if you are wanting to start your reading journey!
Thank you Olivia and Bookish Bubbly PR for the opportunity to read this beautiful ARC 💜
Out now in both paperback and on Kindle Unlimited 📖
December 11, 2024
Play The Last Card was a book I didn’t know I needed in my TBRs until I got through the first chapter to where “I don’t like football” came into play with the conversation between Ivy and Scott. As a football crazed girl, I was flabbergasted to keep reading how much Ivy could not love football. This book got to show Ivy’s journey to working through her feelings towards football and where it stemmed from along with grieving her parents and then later, her pops. Then you watch this macho footballer come in and show emotion?! And realize life without football isn’t that bad. And that he’d do absolutely anything and everything to keep Ivy in his life. Pulled at my heart strings all the way through this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2024
Play the Last Card
By Olivia Fenwick
5 🌟 3 🌶 😢
I thought this was going to be your typical sports romance, but the emotional rollercoaster sure did take me for a ride. The end of the book destroyed me and had me in tears multiple times. Scott is THE book boyfriend. Kind, patient, loving, hot as sin... and everything Ivy didn't know she needed. This book deals with loss of family and anxiety.... have the tissues ready.
By Olivia Fenwick
5 🌟 3 🌶 😢
I thought this was going to be your typical sports romance, but the emotional rollercoaster sure did take me for a ride. The end of the book destroyed me and had me in tears multiple times. Scott is THE book boyfriend. Kind, patient, loving, hot as sin... and everything Ivy didn't know she needed. This book deals with loss of family and anxiety.... have the tissues ready.
December 24, 2024
ARC Review:
Oh wow! Scott & Ivy how I love you both so much!
The story is so captivating, I read it way too quick and feel like I should have savoured it. I believe whoever reads this will be able to relate in some way.
Ivy is the beautiful, charismatic, soft woman we see at a glance and don’t realize what power simmers below. She is lifelike, and so easy to relate to. She’s just a good person, who at times let fear control her but don’t we all sometimes get in our own way?!
Scott jumped right out of my romantic dreams and onto that page, he could not be more perfect. So patient and kind. And damn the description of his physique and how he uses it!!…
Love me some Pops! And hope to hear more about Katie!
Oh wow! Scott & Ivy how I love you both so much!
The story is so captivating, I read it way too quick and feel like I should have savoured it. I believe whoever reads this will be able to relate in some way.
Ivy is the beautiful, charismatic, soft woman we see at a glance and don’t realize what power simmers below. She is lifelike, and so easy to relate to. She’s just a good person, who at times let fear control her but don’t we all sometimes get in our own way?!
Scott jumped right out of my romantic dreams and onto that page, he could not be more perfect. So patient and kind. And damn the description of his physique and how he uses it!!…
Love me some Pops! And hope to hear more about Katie!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2025
Overall I enjoyed this book! All the characters were very relatable and I appreciated the realistic challenges that each one had to overcome.
I also really loved the relationship between Ivy and her Pops! You could obviously feel the love they have for one another throughout the book. And the patience that Scott was able to have throughout the book was very refreshing as well.
You’ll enjoy this book if you like:
•Sports Romance
•Dual POV
•Strong Family Ties
•Mental Health Rep
I’d like to thank Olivia Fenwick and Bookish Bubbly PR for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I also really loved the relationship between Ivy and her Pops! You could obviously feel the love they have for one another throughout the book. And the patience that Scott was able to have throughout the book was very refreshing as well.
You’ll enjoy this book if you like:
•Sports Romance
•Dual POV
•Strong Family Ties
•Mental Health Rep
I’d like to thank Olivia Fenwick and Bookish Bubbly PR for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 23, 2024
What an amazing debut!!
I loved this so much what an emotional rollercoaster.
I cannot wait to see what Olivia writes next.
🩷 Broody x Sunshine
🩷 Dual POV
🩷 NFL Romance
🩷 Secret Relationship
Thankyou so much to Olivia and Bookish Bubbly PR for this incredible Arc
I loved this so much what an emotional rollercoaster.
I cannot wait to see what Olivia writes next.
🩷 Broody x Sunshine
🩷 Dual POV
🩷 NFL Romance
🩷 Secret Relationship
Thankyou so much to Olivia and Bookish Bubbly PR for this incredible Arc
January 30, 2025
I really wanted to like this and I would say most of it was enjoyable. but I just do not find it relatable to not want to be with the most perfect man alive because you refuse to communicate or go to therapy lol
thank god we made it there but I was ANNOYED with Miss Ivy
thank god we made it there but I was ANNOYED with Miss Ivy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2024
This book broke me. It took me on an emotional roller coaster that I wasn’t prepared for, however if you are looking for a great book to read that will have you laughing, crying, and kicking your feet this is definitely one to get!
Ivy is totally against all things football and Scott is the starting quarterback for his team however will they work out. Oh wait, Ivy has no clue who Scott is for so long, will this end in heartbreak r can he pull a Hail Mary out of thin air.
I definitely recommend this book!
Ivy is totally against all things football and Scott is the starting quarterback for his team however will they work out. Oh wait, Ivy has no clue who Scott is for so long, will this end in heartbreak r can he pull a Hail Mary out of thin air.
I definitely recommend this book!
January 26, 2025
Loved it, I hope to read more from Olivia one day. Everyone needs a Scott I their life.
January 31, 2025
My favourite book I’ve read in a long time!! Wish i could give more than 5 stars 😍😍
September 30, 2025
Wow.
This book had me in a chokehold from chapter 1.
It was an emotional roller coaster which took me by surprise.
Some heavy topics like anxiety and grief are handled so beautifully. I could really feel all these feelings along side the characters.
This book had me in a chokehold from chapter 1.
It was an emotional roller coaster which took me by surprise.
Some heavy topics like anxiety and grief are handled so beautifully. I could really feel all these feelings along side the characters.
December 31, 2024
This book is perfect if you love sweet, emotional sports romances. It didn't feel like your typical sports romance books, there was so much passion and emotion. There was great banter and the perfect amount of spice for this book. This book with having you laughing, crying, and wanted to scream. the emotional rollercoaster was a rough one, but so very worth it! The ending will leave you in complete shambles, you will be broken for a while. I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait for the next one!
September 23, 2025
3.5/5⭐️
Okay to be fair I did skim the last 20% because I was in a weird mood and didn’t want to keep reading a book anymore (not the book’s fault, I just personally didn’t feel like reading anything lol). Putting that aside, I actually really enjoyed this. While I don’t usually care for sports romances, this was done well and made me care about the characters and story. This book had a great balance between plot and romance, which is what I want in a romance book. Definitely a good sports romance to check out
Okay to be fair I did skim the last 20% because I was in a weird mood and didn’t want to keep reading a book anymore (not the book’s fault, I just personally didn’t feel like reading anything lol). Putting that aside, I actually really enjoyed this. While I don’t usually care for sports romances, this was done well and made me care about the characters and story. This book had a great balance between plot and romance, which is what I want in a romance book. Definitely a good sports romance to check out
January 15, 2025
OMG, this book had me SOBBING!!
It’s a story filled with heavier topics and a lot of emotions; but as heartbreaking as parts are, it is such a beautifully written book. It’s one I can see myself re-reading in the future.
Ivy (Our FMC), hates football, she does everything she can to avoid watching it or talking about it. It stirs up to many emotions, even though her family is classed a football royalty. She experienced something in her childhood that no child should have to go through.
Scott (Our MMC), he is a football player, to be more specific he is the QB, the highest paid starting QB. The patience he has for Ivy, the obvious love he has for Ivy is swoon worthy! He loves the game, but hates Boston with a passion.
Their meet cute seems pretty normal when you read it from Ivy’s perspective initially, but when you get to Scott’s perspective later on it becomes that much cuter.
Their story isn’t one of ease, they have setbacks, struggles and complications but it is a wonderful relationship and I could not love it more. This definitely did not feel like a debut, the fact that it was makes me even more excited for future books.
---------------------------
Quotes I Loved
“You are so much like your mother. It still surprises me, even after all these years. She always hovered over you and Matty like you were about to break any minute.”
“I know. And dad would say: you need to live a little.”
“He’d tell you the same.”
“I just want to make sure you’re okay.”
The grateful smile on Pop’s face when I walk in carrying his black coffee over ice and the smeared bagel relaxes my shoulders a little. “You’re my favourite grandchild,” he tells me, his eyes tracking my movements closely as I set the coffee tray on a nearby table. “I’m your only grandchild.”
“I lucked out,” I smile, handing over the coffee. “Mhmm, sure.”
“Hm. Okay. Well, call me if you need anything.”
“Not tonight though. You’ve got a date.” I shake my head. “You’re ridiculous. It’s one date. Stop thinking he’s my soulmate.”
“What if he is though?”
“They’ll probably drop dead from shock when I tell them I brought you here.”
“You’ve told them about me?”
“I told them I met a girl in a bar.”
“You’ve probably met a hundred girls in bars.”
“Sure. But none that I’ve told my parents about.”
Cue melting. Cue me becoming a puddle on the floor, at his feet.
“Ivy, baby,” I whisper in her ear. I take her shoulders and pull her gently back toward the couch. “Sit down.” She doesn’t protest and lets me pull her down to the couch. Her body curls into mine and her head rests easily on my shoulder. She’s quiet for a while. I keep thinking she might fall asleep but then her phone buzzes and her eyes peel open. I wish I could tell Katie to knock it off. My girl needs sleep. She’s strong as hell but she’s tired.
Before her I was a football focused, broody son of a bitch with resentment toward a whole damn city and no idea what would come next. Now, I’m still a football focused, broody son of a bitch but then I get to come home. To her. I come home to her and the world spins and the sun shines again and for the first time in my damn life, I feel like there’s something for me beyond football.
“Only with you. Always with you.”
It’s a story filled with heavier topics and a lot of emotions; but as heartbreaking as parts are, it is such a beautifully written book. It’s one I can see myself re-reading in the future.
Ivy (Our FMC), hates football, she does everything she can to avoid watching it or talking about it. It stirs up to many emotions, even though her family is classed a football royalty. She experienced something in her childhood that no child should have to go through.
Scott (Our MMC), he is a football player, to be more specific he is the QB, the highest paid starting QB. The patience he has for Ivy, the obvious love he has for Ivy is swoon worthy! He loves the game, but hates Boston with a passion.
Their meet cute seems pretty normal when you read it from Ivy’s perspective initially, but when you get to Scott’s perspective later on it becomes that much cuter.
Their story isn’t one of ease, they have setbacks, struggles and complications but it is a wonderful relationship and I could not love it more. This definitely did not feel like a debut, the fact that it was makes me even more excited for future books.
---------------------------
Quotes I Loved
“You are so much like your mother. It still surprises me, even after all these years. She always hovered over you and Matty like you were about to break any minute.”
“I know. And dad would say: you need to live a little.”
“He’d tell you the same.”
“I just want to make sure you’re okay.”
The grateful smile on Pop’s face when I walk in carrying his black coffee over ice and the smeared bagel relaxes my shoulders a little. “You’re my favourite grandchild,” he tells me, his eyes tracking my movements closely as I set the coffee tray on a nearby table. “I’m your only grandchild.”
“I lucked out,” I smile, handing over the coffee. “Mhmm, sure.”
“Hm. Okay. Well, call me if you need anything.”
“Not tonight though. You’ve got a date.” I shake my head. “You’re ridiculous. It’s one date. Stop thinking he’s my soulmate.”
“What if he is though?”
“They’ll probably drop dead from shock when I tell them I brought you here.”
“You’ve told them about me?”
“I told them I met a girl in a bar.”
“You’ve probably met a hundred girls in bars.”
“Sure. But none that I’ve told my parents about.”
Cue melting. Cue me becoming a puddle on the floor, at his feet.
“Ivy, baby,” I whisper in her ear. I take her shoulders and pull her gently back toward the couch. “Sit down.” She doesn’t protest and lets me pull her down to the couch. Her body curls into mine and her head rests easily on my shoulder. She’s quiet for a while. I keep thinking she might fall asleep but then her phone buzzes and her eyes peel open. I wish I could tell Katie to knock it off. My girl needs sleep. She’s strong as hell but she’s tired.
Before her I was a football focused, broody son of a bitch with resentment toward a whole damn city and no idea what would come next. Now, I’m still a football focused, broody son of a bitch but then I get to come home. To her. I come home to her and the world spins and the sun shines again and for the first time in my damn life, I feel like there’s something for me beyond football.
“Only with you. Always with you.”
January 7, 2025
(Screams internally, cries internally, smiles excessively)
I first want to say that never in my life has a book had me in such a chokehold. This book was amazing. The writing was perfection, the story was truly wonderful, and I loved every single bit of it from the moment I opened the book. I love a sports romance, but I love when a sports romance focuses on mental health, and also how sports can be impactful in people’s lives. Whether it’s good or bad, sports has always been important to people and I think this book really shows that.
At first, and throughout a good portion of the book, Ivy truly made my blood boil. But I truly understood why she held back the way she did. Again, sometimes she annoyed me, because I just wanted her to love herself, to love the world that she was a part of, and to just forgive. But I did understand that she needed time to process and needed to get through her grief on her own terms. All of that aside, I really loved the way she was written.
SCOTT IS BY FAR THE BEST MAN EVER. The way he was so patient with her, the way he loved her immediately, and the way he also fought a few of his own personal demons to just enjoy Ivy really stuck out to me. I adored the way he took his time to love her unconditionally. Even through all the crap that she was going through, Scott was always there. He truly is a gem and I will say he is one of the best boyfriends that I’ve ever seen. Every time Scott said something, or did something, I would squeal super loud. Because he just truly wanted to love her.
I also really like the side characters in the story. Katie and Flynn were wonderful to read about. And I hope that they fall in love and get a story too. I don’t care about Grant at all and never will. But my favorite side character of all of this truly was Pops. I love that he was just himself, even in a time where he was dying. Pops just wanted the best for his granddaughter and it was the most beautiful thing to watch. I loved how he tried so hard to make sure that she knew that when he left this earth, that she would be fine. I also thought it was cute that he would go gossip with the nurses at the hospital.
This story is very emotional, and really touches on the idea of grief and what grief really looks like. It’s not always easy and it’s not always simple. I love that. Olivia! wrote it in a way where we get to see characters trying, but also still needing that push. Ivy‘s character is a prime example of someone who Still needs work even after they get a happily ever after. And even though she constantly was her worst enemy, you could tell that there was something in her that really put her together. The story definitely had me in my feels, definitely shed it a few tears, and I am very grateful that I got an opportunity to read the story.
As a lover of football myself, I just think that sometimes sports can really bring people together. And this book is just another example of how that works. Thank you, Olivia for creating this beautiful story. And thank you BookishBubbly for allowing me to read this. I can’t wait to see Olivia’s s next book.
I first want to say that never in my life has a book had me in such a chokehold. This book was amazing. The writing was perfection, the story was truly wonderful, and I loved every single bit of it from the moment I opened the book. I love a sports romance, but I love when a sports romance focuses on mental health, and also how sports can be impactful in people’s lives. Whether it’s good or bad, sports has always been important to people and I think this book really shows that.
At first, and throughout a good portion of the book, Ivy truly made my blood boil. But I truly understood why she held back the way she did. Again, sometimes she annoyed me, because I just wanted her to love herself, to love the world that she was a part of, and to just forgive. But I did understand that she needed time to process and needed to get through her grief on her own terms. All of that aside, I really loved the way she was written.
SCOTT IS BY FAR THE BEST MAN EVER. The way he was so patient with her, the way he loved her immediately, and the way he also fought a few of his own personal demons to just enjoy Ivy really stuck out to me. I adored the way he took his time to love her unconditionally. Even through all the crap that she was going through, Scott was always there. He truly is a gem and I will say he is one of the best boyfriends that I’ve ever seen. Every time Scott said something, or did something, I would squeal super loud. Because he just truly wanted to love her.
I also really like the side characters in the story. Katie and Flynn were wonderful to read about. And I hope that they fall in love and get a story too. I don’t care about Grant at all and never will. But my favorite side character of all of this truly was Pops. I love that he was just himself, even in a time where he was dying. Pops just wanted the best for his granddaughter and it was the most beautiful thing to watch. I loved how he tried so hard to make sure that she knew that when he left this earth, that she would be fine. I also thought it was cute that he would go gossip with the nurses at the hospital.
This story is very emotional, and really touches on the idea of grief and what grief really looks like. It’s not always easy and it’s not always simple. I love that. Olivia! wrote it in a way where we get to see characters trying, but also still needing that push. Ivy‘s character is a prime example of someone who Still needs work even after they get a happily ever after. And even though she constantly was her worst enemy, you could tell that there was something in her that really put her together. The story definitely had me in my feels, definitely shed it a few tears, and I am very grateful that I got an opportunity to read the story.
As a lover of football myself, I just think that sometimes sports can really bring people together. And this book is just another example of how that works. Thank you, Olivia for creating this beautiful story. And thank you BookishBubbly for allowing me to read this. I can’t wait to see Olivia’s s next book.
December 23, 2024
What to Expect:
🏈 Broody x Sunshine
🤍 Dual POV
🏈 Sports Romance
🤍 Secret Relationship
🏈 He Falls First and Hard
🤍 Mental Health Rep
🏈 Invisible String Theory
This book had me feeling everything. I laughed, I cried, and my heart ached in the best way. It’s a beautifully crafted story that pulls you in and weaves a sweet, emotional story of love, loss, and growth. It’s a heartfelt rollercoaster packed with tender moments, engaging characters, and just the right amount of steam to keep you hooked.
Scott Harvey, the MMC, is an absolute dreamboat! He’s the poster child for patience and swoon-worthiness, going above and beyond for Ivy at every turn. His loyalty and persistence? Chef’s kiss. Even when Ivy pushed his saint-like patience to the limit, Scott never wavered. Honestly, if there were a dictionary entry for “green flag,” Scott’s picture would be right there. He’s persistent without being pushy, endlessly supportive, and always showing up for Ivy.
Ivy Booker, the FMC, is a walking bundle of anxiety, past trauma, and football royalty baggage, and I genuinely appreciated the thoughtful representation of her struggles. Her backstory is undeniably sad and emotional, with her complicated relationship with football driving some of her more, shall we say, dramatic decisions. That said, Ivy’s walls are sky-high, built from years of pain and anxiety, and breaking them down feels like an impossible task. While I rooted for her growth, I found myself wishing her character development had been a bit deeper or maybe just quicker. Still, her journey is raw and real, and watching her navigate her hardships added plenty of emotional depth to the story.
Scott and Ivy had undeniable chemistry, the kind that sparks effortlessly, even with all the emotional hurdles in their way. Their journey felt like a heartfelt reminder that love isn’t about being perfect; it’s about finding someone willing to face life’s challenges with you. For me, their story was a beautiful tale of resilience, learning to lean on others, and discovering that no matter how tough emotions or experiences get, they’re easier to navigate with the right people by your side. It’s proof that with love, support, and a little determination, you can overcome just about anything.
The friends and family in this story? Absolute perfection. Ivy’s relationship with Pops was pure magic, so heartwarming it could melt even the iciest hearts. Their bond was filled with love, grounding the story in the sweetest way. And Katie? She’s the BFF we all dream of, equal parts support system and reality check. Whether cheering Ivy on or giving her the tough love she needed, Katie brought just the right balance of sass and heart.
This book delivered a heartfelt exploration of grief, mental health, and finding love amidst life’s messiness. Despite Ivy’s frustrating moments, the plot had depth, and the ending tied everything together beautifully. Scott’s unwavering love and Ivy’s eventual growth made the HEA worth the journey.
Thank you to the author, Olivia Fenwick, and the BookishBubbly PR team for the ARC opportunity.
🏈 Broody x Sunshine
🤍 Dual POV
🏈 Sports Romance
🤍 Secret Relationship
🏈 He Falls First and Hard
🤍 Mental Health Rep
🏈 Invisible String Theory
This book had me feeling everything. I laughed, I cried, and my heart ached in the best way. It’s a beautifully crafted story that pulls you in and weaves a sweet, emotional story of love, loss, and growth. It’s a heartfelt rollercoaster packed with tender moments, engaging characters, and just the right amount of steam to keep you hooked.
Scott Harvey, the MMC, is an absolute dreamboat! He’s the poster child for patience and swoon-worthiness, going above and beyond for Ivy at every turn. His loyalty and persistence? Chef’s kiss. Even when Ivy pushed his saint-like patience to the limit, Scott never wavered. Honestly, if there were a dictionary entry for “green flag,” Scott’s picture would be right there. He’s persistent without being pushy, endlessly supportive, and always showing up for Ivy.
Ivy Booker, the FMC, is a walking bundle of anxiety, past trauma, and football royalty baggage, and I genuinely appreciated the thoughtful representation of her struggles. Her backstory is undeniably sad and emotional, with her complicated relationship with football driving some of her more, shall we say, dramatic decisions. That said, Ivy’s walls are sky-high, built from years of pain and anxiety, and breaking them down feels like an impossible task. While I rooted for her growth, I found myself wishing her character development had been a bit deeper or maybe just quicker. Still, her journey is raw and real, and watching her navigate her hardships added plenty of emotional depth to the story.
Scott and Ivy had undeniable chemistry, the kind that sparks effortlessly, even with all the emotional hurdles in their way. Their journey felt like a heartfelt reminder that love isn’t about being perfect; it’s about finding someone willing to face life’s challenges with you. For me, their story was a beautiful tale of resilience, learning to lean on others, and discovering that no matter how tough emotions or experiences get, they’re easier to navigate with the right people by your side. It’s proof that with love, support, and a little determination, you can overcome just about anything.
The friends and family in this story? Absolute perfection. Ivy’s relationship with Pops was pure magic, so heartwarming it could melt even the iciest hearts. Their bond was filled with love, grounding the story in the sweetest way. And Katie? She’s the BFF we all dream of, equal parts support system and reality check. Whether cheering Ivy on or giving her the tough love she needed, Katie brought just the right balance of sass and heart.
This book delivered a heartfelt exploration of grief, mental health, and finding love amidst life’s messiness. Despite Ivy’s frustrating moments, the plot had depth, and the ending tied everything together beautifully. Scott’s unwavering love and Ivy’s eventual growth made the HEA worth the journey.
Thank you to the author, Olivia Fenwick, and the BookishBubbly PR team for the ARC opportunity.
January 11, 2025
"I'm sorry you spilt your coffee."...
When I turn back to him, expecting him to be behind me, I find him closing his passenger side car door. He's got a Starbucks cup balanced in one hand, a small brown paper bag hanging from his fingers. My heart skips a beat, possibly two and I feel my jaw drop.
"Luckily, I come bearing sugary gifts."
I already fell head over heels in love with this book, but that scene right there where he already has her coffee ready and waiting... SWOON - I fell for Scott Harvey, too.
Play the Last Card by Olivia Fenwick is a contemporary sports romance novel that follows Ivy Booker, daughter of football royalty, and Scott Harvey, the best Quarterback in the NFL at this moment. Scott has always been laser-focused on his career with no time for a serious relationship, while Ivy is a kindergarten teacher who staunchly avoids football and blames it for a tragedy that struck her family in her early childhood years. Scott begrudgingly transfers to Boston as his best chance of winning the championship but has no interest in living in the city - that is, until he stumbles upon Ivy working at the local bar to help out her friend. As you can guess, the pair are inseparable and disgustingly in love, but Scott is hiding a big secret. Ivy has no idea who he is, and knowing how much she dislikes the game, he has no plans to tell her.
Scott Harvey is everybody's dream book boyfriend. He is funny and smart and athletic and broody and head over heels for Ivy and will do anything and everything to show it. I loved the banter between the two characters, and how Scott stuck by Ivy through everything, even when he couldn't understand it. Ivy is holding onto so much grief and pain, and this story explores the pain of losing your loved ones and feeling all alone in a world that doesn't understand you, despite the media following her almost every move because of her family's legacy. I feel like Ivy's pain and journey through that goes on for a little too long - it is absolutely believable and realistic, especially with her Pops being sick and the only family she has left. But as far as the story went, I started to get annoyed with her towards the end, especially when some of it felt trivial. I understand from a trauma background what would be going on here with Ivy, but I don't think this itself was communicated entirely, and it probably felt a bit trivial in light of the setting of the fun, sports romance book we were reading.
This book is an absolutely charming read, and is written maturely, with a well developed plot. There is some spice, and the characters are so fun, with the relationships well fleshed out. I was hooked on every word and struggled to put this down. It has all my favourite elements of a sports romance, but also touches on those heavier topics, which makes it feel more adult and less cutesy.
Thank you so much to Olivia for the eARC of this book!
When I turn back to him, expecting him to be behind me, I find him closing his passenger side car door. He's got a Starbucks cup balanced in one hand, a small brown paper bag hanging from his fingers. My heart skips a beat, possibly two and I feel my jaw drop.
"Luckily, I come bearing sugary gifts."
I already fell head over heels in love with this book, but that scene right there where he already has her coffee ready and waiting... SWOON - I fell for Scott Harvey, too.
Play the Last Card by Olivia Fenwick is a contemporary sports romance novel that follows Ivy Booker, daughter of football royalty, and Scott Harvey, the best Quarterback in the NFL at this moment. Scott has always been laser-focused on his career with no time for a serious relationship, while Ivy is a kindergarten teacher who staunchly avoids football and blames it for a tragedy that struck her family in her early childhood years. Scott begrudgingly transfers to Boston as his best chance of winning the championship but has no interest in living in the city - that is, until he stumbles upon Ivy working at the local bar to help out her friend. As you can guess, the pair are inseparable and disgustingly in love, but Scott is hiding a big secret. Ivy has no idea who he is, and knowing how much she dislikes the game, he has no plans to tell her.
Scott Harvey is everybody's dream book boyfriend. He is funny and smart and athletic and broody and head over heels for Ivy and will do anything and everything to show it. I loved the banter between the two characters, and how Scott stuck by Ivy through everything, even when he couldn't understand it. Ivy is holding onto so much grief and pain, and this story explores the pain of losing your loved ones and feeling all alone in a world that doesn't understand you, despite the media following her almost every move because of her family's legacy. I feel like Ivy's pain and journey through that goes on for a little too long - it is absolutely believable and realistic, especially with her Pops being sick and the only family she has left. But as far as the story went, I started to get annoyed with her towards the end, especially when some of it felt trivial. I understand from a trauma background what would be going on here with Ivy, but I don't think this itself was communicated entirely, and it probably felt a bit trivial in light of the setting of the fun, sports romance book we were reading.
This book is an absolutely charming read, and is written maturely, with a well developed plot. There is some spice, and the characters are so fun, with the relationships well fleshed out. I was hooked on every word and struggled to put this down. It has all my favourite elements of a sports romance, but also touches on those heavier topics, which makes it feel more adult and less cutesy.
Thank you so much to Olivia for the eARC of this book!
January 7, 2025
🏈Broody x Sunshine
🤍 Dual POV
🏈 Sports Romance
🤍 Secret Relationship
🏈 He Falls First and Hard
🤍 Mental Health Rep
🏈 Invisible String Theory
First of all can I just say as a debut this was an amazing book, and read I think this book will stay with me for the rest of my life.
This book was everything to me, it was absolutely stunning. The writing was perfection and masterfully written, the story/plot line was truly wonderful, and I loved every single moment of this book from beginning to end!
I finished this book so fast that I had to go back and reread it, that’s how much I loved this book, and the impact it had on me.
Play The Last Card had me feeling every emotion, I laughed, I cried, swooned and had my heart broken but in the best way possible. The way Olivia writes these characters, this story is so beautifully woven. PTLC tells you a story of love,loss,and growth and what one may do to protect themselves from being hurt or emotionally attached and the lengths they will go to do so. This is definitely a must read!!
Ivy Booker our FMC’s family is Football Royalty, though Ivy wants nothing or anything do to with the sport or related to it. my heart hurt for Ivy so so much. I loved that we got to see her backstory and everything that made Ivy who she is,and why she is the way she is.
Anxiety,past trauma and so much emotional upheaval and scars. The mental health rep was so well done!
And Scott Harvey our MMC is absolutely everything I think Scott is now one of my Top 10 book boyfriends of all time!! Scott lives and breathes football and is the New QB for the Boston Broncos. How he truly cares for Ivy, and goes above and beyond for her had me swooning. Scott is a walking green flag!!
Scott and Ivy meet at a sports bar and instantly click. Their chemistry you can literally feel it steaming off the pages it was instant but so very believable as if it could happen in real life. I also loved the side characters Katie (Ivy’s BFF we all need a Katie in our lives) Flynn, and especially Pops he reminded me so much of my grandfather and the relationship I had with my own that by the end I was sobbing, and went through two boxes of tissues.
This is not just a sports romance it’s so much more it transcends it! Olivia created a beautiful world, and amazing characters, and the perfect amount of spice. I can’t wait to see what Olivia Writes next!
Thank You to Olivia and BookishBubbly for this arc!!!
🤍 Dual POV
🏈 Sports Romance
🤍 Secret Relationship
🏈 He Falls First and Hard
🤍 Mental Health Rep
🏈 Invisible String Theory
First of all can I just say as a debut this was an amazing book, and read I think this book will stay with me for the rest of my life.
This book was everything to me, it was absolutely stunning. The writing was perfection and masterfully written, the story/plot line was truly wonderful, and I loved every single moment of this book from beginning to end!
I finished this book so fast that I had to go back and reread it, that’s how much I loved this book, and the impact it had on me.
Play The Last Card had me feeling every emotion, I laughed, I cried, swooned and had my heart broken but in the best way possible. The way Olivia writes these characters, this story is so beautifully woven. PTLC tells you a story of love,loss,and growth and what one may do to protect themselves from being hurt or emotionally attached and the lengths they will go to do so. This is definitely a must read!!
Ivy Booker our FMC’s family is Football Royalty, though Ivy wants nothing or anything do to with the sport or related to it. my heart hurt for Ivy so so much. I loved that we got to see her backstory and everything that made Ivy who she is,and why she is the way she is.
Anxiety,past trauma and so much emotional upheaval and scars. The mental health rep was so well done!
And Scott Harvey our MMC is absolutely everything I think Scott is now one of my Top 10 book boyfriends of all time!! Scott lives and breathes football and is the New QB for the Boston Broncos. How he truly cares for Ivy, and goes above and beyond for her had me swooning. Scott is a walking green flag!!
Scott and Ivy meet at a sports bar and instantly click. Their chemistry you can literally feel it steaming off the pages it was instant but so very believable as if it could happen in real life. I also loved the side characters Katie (Ivy’s BFF we all need a Katie in our lives) Flynn, and especially Pops he reminded me so much of my grandfather and the relationship I had with my own that by the end I was sobbing, and went through two boxes of tissues.
This is not just a sports romance it’s so much more it transcends it! Olivia created a beautiful world, and amazing characters, and the perfect amount of spice. I can’t wait to see what Olivia Writes next!
Thank You to Olivia and BookishBubbly for this arc!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2024
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 ♡
📖 — ❝play the last card❞
author — olivia fenwick
rating — ★ ★ ★ ★
spice level — ★ ★ / 5 🌶️
🃏sports romance
🃏secret relationship
🃏invisible string theory 𖤐⭒๋࣭ ⭑
🃏found family
🃏mental health rep
🃏he falls
𓏲🗒️ꜝֶָ֢ ʾʾ review —
oh
my
gosh
WHAT A DEBUT 🥹
beautiful does not even begin to cover just how well-thought out this entire story was. from start to finish, there is so much love and care being poured in every space of these strong characters.
the conversations were loud in this one. i can’t express enough how real and authentic these characters felt. the entire way through, i genuinely felt like these conversations were happening in real time in REAL LIFE. the writing was captivating and the journey was a rollercoaster to say the least.
— little spoiler warning here ! —
one thing i was really excited to touch upon when writing this review was the specific type of grief Ivy goes through, especially with her family being football royalty to the public. the conversations surrounding how parasocial relationships with famous people can effect the way real families perceive their relationships with loved ones, especially in grief. it was so hurtful watching Ivy grieve the loss of her parents while simultaneously having strangers/fans remember them in a way that feels personal — when it isn’t. she mentions how she hates how people got to see and know them from a public perspective unlike her when she lost them when she was just a baby. i really loved this perspective and just wanted to give it it’s own space here because it was so touching to me. miss fenwick, you really did your thing here!
— spoiler ends here —
Scott Harvey, the man that you are.
i was just crawling up the wall with how perfect our main guy was. from the minute we first were introduced to him, he couldn’t believe a woman like Ivy Booker was breathing the same air as him, let alone talking to him.
my guy was s m i t t e n and when he set his sights on Ivy, he absolutely meant it. just the most patient guy ever to be written, i’m not even kidding.
also the INVISIBLE STRING THEORY?1??1??
i could cry (did) i genuinely was clutching my chest, this trope made this experience so much more magical.
what an amazing debut story!
thank you @bookishbubbly.pr and Olivia Fenwick for this ARC! ♡
📖 — ❝play the last card❞
author — olivia fenwick
rating — ★ ★ ★ ★
spice level — ★ ★ / 5 🌶️
🃏sports romance
🃏secret relationship
🃏invisible string theory 𖤐⭒๋࣭ ⭑
🃏found family
🃏mental health rep
🃏he falls
𓏲🗒️ꜝֶָ֢ ʾʾ review —
oh
my
gosh
WHAT A DEBUT 🥹
beautiful does not even begin to cover just how well-thought out this entire story was. from start to finish, there is so much love and care being poured in every space of these strong characters.
the conversations were loud in this one. i can’t express enough how real and authentic these characters felt. the entire way through, i genuinely felt like these conversations were happening in real time in REAL LIFE. the writing was captivating and the journey was a rollercoaster to say the least.
— little spoiler warning here ! —
one thing i was really excited to touch upon when writing this review was the specific type of grief Ivy goes through, especially with her family being football royalty to the public. the conversations surrounding how parasocial relationships with famous people can effect the way real families perceive their relationships with loved ones, especially in grief. it was so hurtful watching Ivy grieve the loss of her parents while simultaneously having strangers/fans remember them in a way that feels personal — when it isn’t. she mentions how she hates how people got to see and know them from a public perspective unlike her when she lost them when she was just a baby. i really loved this perspective and just wanted to give it it’s own space here because it was so touching to me. miss fenwick, you really did your thing here!
— spoiler ends here —
Scott Harvey, the man that you are.
i was just crawling up the wall with how perfect our main guy was. from the minute we first were introduced to him, he couldn’t believe a woman like Ivy Booker was breathing the same air as him, let alone talking to him.
my guy was s m i t t e n and when he set his sights on Ivy, he absolutely meant it. just the most patient guy ever to be written, i’m not even kidding.
also the INVISIBLE STRING THEORY?1??1??
i could cry (did) i genuinely was clutching my chest, this trope made this experience so much more magical.
what an amazing debut story!
thank you @bookishbubbly.pr and Olivia Fenwick for this ARC! ♡
December 22, 2024
This is my ARC review for Olivia Fenwick's debut novel, Play the Last Card.
Sports romance tropes are one of my favorites and Olivia did a wonderful job telling the story of Ivy and Scott. Ivy Booker is a kindergarten teacher living in Boston with her grandpa, Billy Booker. She comes from a lineage of talented football players, including her grandpa who was a starting quarterback for the Boston Broncos NFL team. She lives off of sugary Starbucks drinks and reruns of old Friends episodes. Every Sunday she plays Uno with her pops.
Scott Harvey is a star quarterback who recently moved to Boston to play for the Broncos with the hopes of wining a Superbowl. He is the strong, silent type, more of an introvert and generally keeps to himself and close circle of people small.
Scott walks by the bar Ivy is working at part time and sees her through the window and wanders inside to get a closer look. He's head over heels at first sight and Ivy is smitten with tall, handsome Scott but talks herself out of the signs indicating he's interested.
Ivy and Scott both come from complicated backgrounds that make their relationship challenging. They quickly connect with each other on a deep level and slowly show pieces of themselves to each other that they typically keep private. The slow burn of their relationship is chefs kiss! The way their chemistry is described is A+ and realistic and believable.
This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions, I found myself smiling so hard, laughing, surprised, I shed a few tears, and also found myself throwing up my hands in frustration. I really kept going back and forth on how it all would end - it was giving major will they, won't they vibes. I was rooting for them throughout the whole book.
If you like sports romance books with a touch of emotion, A+ banter, a slow burn that ends in some solid spice, then I highly recommend you pick this book up!
Solid, debut from Olivia Fenwick, I am definitely looking forward to reading what she comes out with next!
Tropes:
Grumpy x Sunshine
NFL Sports Romance
Secret Relationship
Dual POV
Romantic Comedy
Invisible String Theory
Rating: 5/5 stars
Spice: 3.5/5
Thank you for the ARC Olivia Fenwick and BookishBubblyPR!!
Sports romance tropes are one of my favorites and Olivia did a wonderful job telling the story of Ivy and Scott. Ivy Booker is a kindergarten teacher living in Boston with her grandpa, Billy Booker. She comes from a lineage of talented football players, including her grandpa who was a starting quarterback for the Boston Broncos NFL team. She lives off of sugary Starbucks drinks and reruns of old Friends episodes. Every Sunday she plays Uno with her pops.
Scott Harvey is a star quarterback who recently moved to Boston to play for the Broncos with the hopes of wining a Superbowl. He is the strong, silent type, more of an introvert and generally keeps to himself and close circle of people small.
Scott walks by the bar Ivy is working at part time and sees her through the window and wanders inside to get a closer look. He's head over heels at first sight and Ivy is smitten with tall, handsome Scott but talks herself out of the signs indicating he's interested.
Ivy and Scott both come from complicated backgrounds that make their relationship challenging. They quickly connect with each other on a deep level and slowly show pieces of themselves to each other that they typically keep private. The slow burn of their relationship is chefs kiss! The way their chemistry is described is A+ and realistic and believable.
This book took me on a roller coaster of emotions, I found myself smiling so hard, laughing, surprised, I shed a few tears, and also found myself throwing up my hands in frustration. I really kept going back and forth on how it all would end - it was giving major will they, won't they vibes. I was rooting for them throughout the whole book.
If you like sports romance books with a touch of emotion, A+ banter, a slow burn that ends in some solid spice, then I highly recommend you pick this book up!
Solid, debut from Olivia Fenwick, I am definitely looking forward to reading what she comes out with next!
Tropes:
Grumpy x Sunshine
NFL Sports Romance
Secret Relationship
Dual POV
Romantic Comedy
Invisible String Theory
Rating: 5/5 stars
Spice: 3.5/5
Thank you for the ARC Olivia Fenwick and BookishBubblyPR!!
December 29, 2024
A cute sports romance read for fans of the hidden/secret identity trope ❤️🏈 Unfortunately, this just wasn't for me.
⭐ Review ⭐
I really tried to like this, but I just couldn't bring myself to tolerate starting off a relationship withholding the truth. I really didn't like how Scott prolonged hiding who he was because in the first place, he already knew that was the wrong thing to do, and he also already found out about Ivy's dislike against football in general. His friend, Flynn, even warned him against moving forward with the relationship before he revealed that he was a football player. And instead of heeding all the warnings, he decided to have sex first? At that point, I was already fuming.
As for Ivy, I get that her experience may have led her to hating football, but I thought the reasons she kept saying in her internal monologues were kind of a reach. I mean, I get why she wouldn't want to drive in snow, but hating football in its entirety and even affecting the people around her? I thought that was too much, and it started to make her seem selfish as I read on.
(*spoiler: her grandpa's last wish was to go to a game for the last time because he hadn't gone since she was 6, and she still had second thoughts... imagine, you won't grant your grandpa's dying wish because you can't move on)
Anyway, I might seem a bit unsympathetic with what I've written about Ivy, but reading the parts wherein she stated her reasons felt like I was talking to a child having tantrums. If I could only clip all those parts and add them here, I would. But, I also don't want to waste my time.
Honestly, I really didn't like the characters in this book, except for Pops of course. I just tolerated the story as much as I could, but it was hard to get through. I did like the ending, though - probably the only chapter I liked in this book.
Again, I tried to like this but as I was reading, my anger and frustration with everything just grew bigger and bigger. Still, thank you to Bookish Bubbly PR and the author for allowing me to share my honest opinions on this ARC read ❤️
⭐ Review ⭐
I really tried to like this, but I just couldn't bring myself to tolerate starting off a relationship withholding the truth. I really didn't like how Scott prolonged hiding who he was because in the first place, he already knew that was the wrong thing to do, and he also already found out about Ivy's dislike against football in general. His friend, Flynn, even warned him against moving forward with the relationship before he revealed that he was a football player. And instead of heeding all the warnings, he decided to have sex first? At that point, I was already fuming.
As for Ivy, I get that her experience may have led her to hating football, but I thought the reasons she kept saying in her internal monologues were kind of a reach. I mean, I get why she wouldn't want to drive in snow, but hating football in its entirety and even affecting the people around her? I thought that was too much, and it started to make her seem selfish as I read on.
(*spoiler: her grandpa's last wish was to go to a game for the last time because he hadn't gone since she was 6, and she still had second thoughts... imagine, you won't grant your grandpa's dying wish because you can't move on)
Anyway, I might seem a bit unsympathetic with what I've written about Ivy, but reading the parts wherein she stated her reasons felt like I was talking to a child having tantrums. If I could only clip all those parts and add them here, I would. But, I also don't want to waste my time.
Honestly, I really didn't like the characters in this book, except for Pops of course. I just tolerated the story as much as I could, but it was hard to get through. I did like the ending, though - probably the only chapter I liked in this book.
Again, I tried to like this but as I was reading, my anger and frustration with everything just grew bigger and bigger. Still, thank you to Bookish Bubbly PR and the author for allowing me to share my honest opinions on this ARC read ❤️
January 28, 2025
You can find this review of Play the Last Card on my blog, Heart's Content!
A big shout out and thank you to BookishBubbly PR and the author for gifting me with a complimentary copy of Play the Last Card as part of the blog tour in exchange for an honest review!
Can we talk about how sweet this book was? Because it was. So so so very sweet. Sugar and spice (*winks*) and everything nice, that’s what I would call Fenwick‘s debut contemporary romance.
Play the Last Card is a perfectly sized book that’s exactly what you need on a rainy day to curl up with and keep you company. It’s a tight hug and a warm drink all wrapped up in one nice little package. I took about two and a half sittings to finish this book; but that’s only honestly because I had to take a break, otherwise I’d have likely been done in one sitting.
The writing in this book absolutely does not read like it were written by a debutante author. It’s simple, with the right amount of complexities, emotional with the perfect amount of humour and it’s romantic with just the right amount of heartbreak. I will agree that there were some hiccups here or there (I don’t mean typos or grammatial errors) that I noted but honestly they are so minor that I didn’t really knock a star off because of it. However, I did add half a star when I found out this baby was the author’s first venture into the writing world.
The book alternates between the perspectives of the MMC and the FMC and I think for the first time I greatly greatly sympathised with the MMC more than I did with the FMC. It’s not often an author is ready to throw the spotlight on their FMC’s flaws, given that they hope that the reader greatly empathises and sees themselves in the protagonist. However, Fenwick doesn’t shy away from letting us feel frustration, confusion, pain and sometimes even disappointment with our protagonist. While I do know that certain times that can be difficult to read, I personally think this worked in PtLC‘s favour; that the author chose to be real rather than perfect.
The plot in this book is so simple that it can dive into all the complex aspects buried within it. I personally think it could have been done maybe a smiiiiiidge better on the trauma front, however, it was still done really well on many of the other aspects and the resolution of it all that I can’t really complain. Additionally, I think that there was a great balance of all the things that hurt (so good) and the things that hold you (so well). I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again that sometimes the most (seemingly) simple concepts in a book are what elevate a story with all its complexities and intricacies.
The pace in this story is so wonderfully even—though I will admit it races towards the last fifteen percent. Like I mentioned earlier, the book can absolutely be read in one single sitting. The book is one smooth emotional journey that will leave you feeling very very satiated at the end.
Four and a half stars! As always, please check trigger warnings! Happy reading. Play the Last Card has released and is available for free for KU subscribers!
A big shout out and thank you to BookishBubbly PR and the author for gifting me with a complimentary copy of Play the Last Card as part of the blog tour in exchange for an honest review!
Can we talk about how sweet this book was? Because it was. So so so very sweet. Sugar and spice (*winks*) and everything nice, that’s what I would call Fenwick‘s debut contemporary romance.
Play the Last Card is a perfectly sized book that’s exactly what you need on a rainy day to curl up with and keep you company. It’s a tight hug and a warm drink all wrapped up in one nice little package. I took about two and a half sittings to finish this book; but that’s only honestly because I had to take a break, otherwise I’d have likely been done in one sitting.
The writing in this book absolutely does not read like it were written by a debutante author. It’s simple, with the right amount of complexities, emotional with the perfect amount of humour and it’s romantic with just the right amount of heartbreak. I will agree that there were some hiccups here or there (I don’t mean typos or grammatial errors) that I noted but honestly they are so minor that I didn’t really knock a star off because of it. However, I did add half a star when I found out this baby was the author’s first venture into the writing world.
The book alternates between the perspectives of the MMC and the FMC and I think for the first time I greatly greatly sympathised with the MMC more than I did with the FMC. It’s not often an author is ready to throw the spotlight on their FMC’s flaws, given that they hope that the reader greatly empathises and sees themselves in the protagonist. However, Fenwick doesn’t shy away from letting us feel frustration, confusion, pain and sometimes even disappointment with our protagonist. While I do know that certain times that can be difficult to read, I personally think this worked in PtLC‘s favour; that the author chose to be real rather than perfect.
The plot in this book is so simple that it can dive into all the complex aspects buried within it. I personally think it could have been done maybe a smiiiiiidge better on the trauma front, however, it was still done really well on many of the other aspects and the resolution of it all that I can’t really complain. Additionally, I think that there was a great balance of all the things that hurt (so good) and the things that hold you (so well). I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again that sometimes the most (seemingly) simple concepts in a book are what elevate a story with all its complexities and intricacies.
The pace in this story is so wonderfully even—though I will admit it races towards the last fifteen percent. Like I mentioned earlier, the book can absolutely be read in one single sitting. The book is one smooth emotional journey that will leave you feeling very very satiated at the end.
Four and a half stars! As always, please check trigger warnings! Happy reading. Play the Last Card has released and is available for free for KU subscribers!
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