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Cross the line. Feel the heat.
Taylor and Nick have been as thick as thieves since tee ball. He’s her
never-even-thought-about-him-that-way best friend. The one constant she can count on when everything else goes sideways.
And right now, everything is sideways: a father who suddenly feels like a stranger and a vindictive guest threatening to torch her hard-won reputation as a respectable businesswoman. Taylor copes by arming herself with lists and preparing for every possible eventuality.
Every possibility but one: Nick not just tilting her world, but flipping it upside down.
After an injury ends his Major League Baseball career, Nick returns home with a new game plan: steal Taylor’s heart. He’s ready to gamble it all: their friendship, his future, even his shot at a new career. Because if there’s one thing he loves more than baseball, it’s her. And now that they’re grown, he doesn’t just want friendship. He wants more—so much more.
Steamy banter. Twisty secrets. All the trouble you crave. Score covers all the bases.
Taylor and Nick have been as thick as thieves since tee ball. He’s her
never-even-thought-about-him-that-way best friend. The one constant she can count on when everything else goes sideways.
And right now, everything is sideways: a father who suddenly feels like a stranger and a vindictive guest threatening to torch her hard-won reputation as a respectable businesswoman. Taylor copes by arming herself with lists and preparing for every possible eventuality.
Every possibility but one: Nick not just tilting her world, but flipping it upside down.
After an injury ends his Major League Baseball career, Nick returns home with a new game plan: steal Taylor’s heart. He’s ready to gamble it all: their friendship, his future, even his shot at a new career. Because if there’s one thing he loves more than baseball, it’s her. And now that they’re grown, he doesn’t just want friendship. He wants more—so much more.
Steamy banter. Twisty secrets. All the trouble you crave. Score covers all the bases.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
6 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
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October 5, 2025I'm so freaking excited for this, I can't even...
October 29, 2025
❤️ Blurb -
Taylor and Nick have been as thick as thieves since tee ball. He’s her
never-even-thought-about-him-that-way best friend. The one constant she can count on when everything else goes sideways.
And right now, everything is sideways: a father who suddenly feels like a stranger and a vindictive guest threatening to torch her hard-won reputation as a respectable businesswoman. Taylor copes by arming herself with lists and preparing for every possible eventuality.
Every possibility but one: Nick not just tilting her world, but flipping it upside down.
After an injury ends his Major League Baseball career, Nick returns home with a new game plan: steal Taylor’s heart. He’s ready to gamble it all: their friendship, his future, even his shot at a new career. Because if there’s one thing he loves more than baseball, it’s her. And now that they’re grown, he doesn’t just want friendship. He wants more—so much more.
💜 Even though I hadn't read the other books in the series I still enjoyed it and soon understood what was going on and who was who. This was such a brilliantly written novel. Friends to Lovers is one of my favourite troupes and the author did this well. I loved Taylor and Nick's chemistry and I wanted them to have the happy ending that they deserved. Plus I loved the other characters in the story. Readers who love spicy enemies to lovers romance novels will love it. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author, Mary Cain for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Taylor and Nick have been as thick as thieves since tee ball. He’s her
never-even-thought-about-him-that-way best friend. The one constant she can count on when everything else goes sideways.
And right now, everything is sideways: a father who suddenly feels like a stranger and a vindictive guest threatening to torch her hard-won reputation as a respectable businesswoman. Taylor copes by arming herself with lists and preparing for every possible eventuality.
Every possibility but one: Nick not just tilting her world, but flipping it upside down.
After an injury ends his Major League Baseball career, Nick returns home with a new game plan: steal Taylor’s heart. He’s ready to gamble it all: their friendship, his future, even his shot at a new career. Because if there’s one thing he loves more than baseball, it’s her. And now that they’re grown, he doesn’t just want friendship. He wants more—so much more.
💜 Even though I hadn't read the other books in the series I still enjoyed it and soon understood what was going on and who was who. This was such a brilliantly written novel. Friends to Lovers is one of my favourite troupes and the author did this well. I loved Taylor and Nick's chemistry and I wanted them to have the happy ending that they deserved. Plus I loved the other characters in the story. Readers who love spicy enemies to lovers romance novels will love it. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to the author, Mary Cain for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2025
*** ARC Review***
Taylor & Nick have been best friends since they were kids. Nick wearing his heart on his fierce, always thought they’d end up together, but after expressing his deeper feelings to Taylor, he gets a reaction he wasn’t expecting.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes include:
Friends to lovers
Small town
Baseball
Golden retriever MMC
Touch her & 💀
This book has all the small town, best friends to lovers vibes with some sports romance and golden retriever energy too! The push-pull, will they or won’t they.
I found it hard at the start to get engaged as the story is written in 3rd person, though that’s just my personal preference.
Happy Reading
😊🐕⚾️
Taylor & Nick have been best friends since they were kids. Nick wearing his heart on his fierce, always thought they’d end up together, but after expressing his deeper feelings to Taylor, he gets a reaction he wasn’t expecting.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes include:
Friends to lovers
Small town
Baseball
Golden retriever MMC
Touch her & 💀
This book has all the small town, best friends to lovers vibes with some sports romance and golden retriever energy too! The push-pull, will they or won’t they.
I found it hard at the start to get engaged as the story is written in 3rd person, though that’s just my personal preference.
Happy Reading
😊🐕⚾️
November 1, 2025
I was beyond excited to get an ARC of Score. This is the third installment in the Troublemakers and Heartbreakers series. I loved Hustle and Bang so this one had big shoes to fill. Nick and Taylor did not disappoint! It follows Nick and Taylor as they decide if they want to move from friends to more. The yearning in this one was **chefs kiss** perfection! Nick absolutely falls first and goes all in once he makes that decision. Nick knew what he wanted and didn’t hesitate to go for it. Taylor was scared to ‘ruin the friendship’ (Swifty vibes) but Nick used that Lewis Luck to his advantage. I love how they match each others energy and he’s not afraid to appreciate her strong independence while also making sure she takes care of her self. The spice was perfect, the dugout scene 🔥 Lots of appearances from our favorites from the first two books. Love this little family! Mary’s ability to write characters that you are drawn to immediately is impressive!
Tropes:
⭐️Friends to Lovers
⭐️ He Falls First
⭐️ Mamas Boy
⭐️ Dog Mom
⭐️ Ex-Athlete
⭐️ Coaches Daughter
⭐️ Flashlight Tag
Tropes:
⭐️Friends to Lovers
⭐️ He Falls First
⭐️ Mamas Boy
⭐️ Dog Mom
⭐️ Ex-Athlete
⭐️ Coaches Daughter
⭐️ Flashlight Tag
October 17, 2025
Such an amazing read!!!! I was soooooo excited to get an ARC of Score. This is the third book in the Troublemakers and Heartbreakers series. Mary Cain did not disappoint with this one!! 🔥🔥I couldn’t put it down. Score is everything a friends to lover should be and more. Nick and Taylor are meant for each other. I loved getting updates on everyone from Hustle and Bang. Great job Mary!!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
October 13, 2025
LOVED Score so much!! This is the first time I’ve read a book with a childhood friends to lovers trope and I must say it was so well written. You experience the emotions of Nick confessing his love to Taylor after a career ending injury and Taylor not being on board right away due to a few reasons you’ll find out, one including her anxiety. But they eventually start to figure things out and their romantic relationship starts to blossom. Be prepared for lots of spicy scenes 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Nick has the total golden retriever, goofy, but sweet boyfriend energy and Taylor either matched his energy or tolerates some of Nick’s goofy antics.
This is also not your glorified small town, ex athlete romance as there’s some twists and turns where Taylor is blackmailed and how everyone comes together to help her get out this situation. I don’t want to spoil anything so go read it for yourself!
Last note: the best thing about the Troublemakers and Heartbreakers series is that each story has something for everyone and keeps you engaged unlike some other series that can get repetitive and you can kind of start to figure out how the plot goes right away. The storylines are different from some of your typical romance series but so amazing!
Here are the tropes that I know you’ll love:
Ex athlete ⚾️
Childhood best friends to lovers 💕
Coach’s daughter 🧔♂️
Denied attraction ❤️🩹
Dog parents 🐶
Spicy 🥵
Blackmail 🖤
Flash light tag 🔦
Romance in the dugout 🏟️
Nick has the total golden retriever, goofy, but sweet boyfriend energy and Taylor either matched his energy or tolerates some of Nick’s goofy antics.
This is also not your glorified small town, ex athlete romance as there’s some twists and turns where Taylor is blackmailed and how everyone comes together to help her get out this situation. I don’t want to spoil anything so go read it for yourself!
Last note: the best thing about the Troublemakers and Heartbreakers series is that each story has something for everyone and keeps you engaged unlike some other series that can get repetitive and you can kind of start to figure out how the plot goes right away. The storylines are different from some of your typical romance series but so amazing!
Here are the tropes that I know you’ll love:
Ex athlete ⚾️
Childhood best friends to lovers 💕
Coach’s daughter 🧔♂️
Denied attraction ❤️🩹
Dog parents 🐶
Spicy 🥵
Blackmail 🖤
Flash light tag 🔦
Romance in the dugout 🏟️
October 30, 2025
Score (Troublemakers & Heartbreakers Book 3) - Mary Cain
This book is outstanding! I was lucky enough to read this as an ARC reviewer and I cannot believe this is only Mary’s 3rd published book. This story is like a warm hug but with a good dose of swearing, laugh out loud awkwardness, just the right amount of smut and, of course, abs abs abs!
The novel is a best friends to lovers read and it’s adorable. Our golden retriever mamas boy MMC Nick is head over heels for his bestie FMC, Taylor, and watching her navigate the change in their relationship is brilliant. Taylor is an anxiety ridden control freak who you can’t help but love, even if you wanna shake her and force feed her gin until she calms the fudge down. Nick is like an overexcited puppy who also happens to post thirst traps and has the body of a Greek god. One of my favourite scenes from the book sums him up beautifully:
“Nick’s middle name was Ridiculous. It was like he was born with a mere fraction of the f**ks everyone else had to give.
“Maybe, but you’re the only woman I can imagine getting pregnant. That’s weird, right?”
Yep. All his f**ks were long gone.”
This is the 3rd book in the series but it can absolutely be read as a stone alone. I would 100% recommend for anyone who needs a funny, feel good book with legitimately relatable characters. Pre-order or add to your TBR list; you won’t regret it. 5 stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This book is outstanding! I was lucky enough to read this as an ARC reviewer and I cannot believe this is only Mary’s 3rd published book. This story is like a warm hug but with a good dose of swearing, laugh out loud awkwardness, just the right amount of smut and, of course, abs abs abs!
The novel is a best friends to lovers read and it’s adorable. Our golden retriever mamas boy MMC Nick is head over heels for his bestie FMC, Taylor, and watching her navigate the change in their relationship is brilliant. Taylor is an anxiety ridden control freak who you can’t help but love, even if you wanna shake her and force feed her gin until she calms the fudge down. Nick is like an overexcited puppy who also happens to post thirst traps and has the body of a Greek god. One of my favourite scenes from the book sums him up beautifully:
“Nick’s middle name was Ridiculous. It was like he was born with a mere fraction of the f**ks everyone else had to give.
“Maybe, but you’re the only woman I can imagine getting pregnant. That’s weird, right?”
Yep. All his f**ks were long gone.”
This is the 3rd book in the series but it can absolutely be read as a stone alone. I would 100% recommend for anyone who needs a funny, feel good book with legitimately relatable characters. Pre-order or add to your TBR list; you won’t regret it. 5 stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 27, 2025
I absolutely loved this book and was so excited to receive an early copy to read! This is the 3rd book in the Troublemakers and Heartbreakers series. While they are all interconnected standalones and you don’t have to read the others first, I recommend that you do so that you can understand all the characters, and because they are awesome as well! Lots of the past characters make appearances in this book.
Score shares Nick and Taylor’s journey as they move from childhood best friends to more. The two of them have been friends since they were little, playing ball together, and Taylor’s dad coaching Nick. After some unexpected life changes, Nick knew exactly what he wanted, and he knew the time was finally right to go for it. He was all in, but Taylor wasn’t quite sure and was terrified of messing up their lifelong friendship. It didn’t take too long to convince her of their chemistry though!
Taylor deals with a lot of anxiety, which I feel like makes her more relatable to a lot of people. Nick understands her so well and is always there to pull her back to safety and out of her head, while also respecting her strong need to be independent.
I feel like the story is very well written and paced! I love how Mary writes her characters so that you are immediately drawn to them. There’s lots of yearning, banter, fun, some unexpected twists such as blackmail, and a great amount of spice! Highly recommend you read this one (and the rest of the series)!
Score shares Nick and Taylor’s journey as they move from childhood best friends to more. The two of them have been friends since they were little, playing ball together, and Taylor’s dad coaching Nick. After some unexpected life changes, Nick knew exactly what he wanted, and he knew the time was finally right to go for it. He was all in, but Taylor wasn’t quite sure and was terrified of messing up their lifelong friendship. It didn’t take too long to convince her of their chemistry though!
Taylor deals with a lot of anxiety, which I feel like makes her more relatable to a lot of people. Nick understands her so well and is always there to pull her back to safety and out of her head, while also respecting her strong need to be independent.
I feel like the story is very well written and paced! I love how Mary writes her characters so that you are immediately drawn to them. There’s lots of yearning, banter, fun, some unexpected twists such as blackmail, and a great amount of spice! Highly recommend you read this one (and the rest of the series)!
October 30, 2025
Score felt like a warm embrace with a spark of fire. Mary Cain has such a gift for writing characters that feel real — people you grow attached to, people you root for. Taylor and Nick… their bond, their history, their doubts — everything felt so genuine that I caught myself smiling, and sometimes even tearing up.
The friends-to-lovers trope is beautifully done here. The way their friendship slowly shifts into something deeper is tender and heartwarming, without ever losing its playful spark. Nick’s loyal, golden-retriever energy and Taylor’s mix of anxiety, strength, and control make them the perfect match — they balance each other so naturally.
What I loved most is that this story isn’t just about love; it’s also about growth, trust, and learning to let yourself be seen. The tension, the humor, the warmth between the characters — it all makes Score so much more than just a romance.
Mary Cain writes with so much heart and passion that you don’t want to leave her world behind. Score is the kind of story that makes you smile, sigh, and sometimes just stop to feel it all — and that’s exactly what makes it special.
A story full of heart, warmth, longing, and hope. 🌹
The friends-to-lovers trope is beautifully done here. The way their friendship slowly shifts into something deeper is tender and heartwarming, without ever losing its playful spark. Nick’s loyal, golden-retriever energy and Taylor’s mix of anxiety, strength, and control make them the perfect match — they balance each other so naturally.
What I loved most is that this story isn’t just about love; it’s also about growth, trust, and learning to let yourself be seen. The tension, the humor, the warmth between the characters — it all makes Score so much more than just a romance.
Mary Cain writes with so much heart and passion that you don’t want to leave her world behind. Score is the kind of story that makes you smile, sigh, and sometimes just stop to feel it all — and that’s exactly what makes it special.
A story full of heart, warmth, longing, and hope. 🌹
November 2, 2025
One of my favorite series! This book is a different vibe - no heist involved unless you consider Nick taking over Taylor’s life in a romantic way a heist 😂
I love Nick! He’s in tune to how he feels for Taylor - they have the foundation of being best friends but now he wants more. She’s always been a huge part of his life - after making in big with baseball, life throws a little twist that ends up with him being back home.
Taylor has always had a soft spot for Nick - when he makes it known he wants more, can she handle that? She can’t lose him - he’s the one thing she refuses to live without…even if it means not giving in to him.
I loved the plot line - Taylor is super hardheaded (of course 😂) but Nick is her person and knows how to handle her…in more than one way. The author is also local to me so having some of the story be in Maryland is a seller for me! Definitely a must read series! The previous book characters are tied in this story as well - definitely recommend the reads! Thank you to the author, Mary Cain for the early read 🤍 all opinions are my own. Now to impatiently wait for the next one 😂
I love Nick! He’s in tune to how he feels for Taylor - they have the foundation of being best friends but now he wants more. She’s always been a huge part of his life - after making in big with baseball, life throws a little twist that ends up with him being back home.
Taylor has always had a soft spot for Nick - when he makes it known he wants more, can she handle that? She can’t lose him - he’s the one thing she refuses to live without…even if it means not giving in to him.
I loved the plot line - Taylor is super hardheaded (of course 😂) but Nick is her person and knows how to handle her…in more than one way. The author is also local to me so having some of the story be in Maryland is a seller for me! Definitely a must read series! The previous book characters are tied in this story as well - definitely recommend the reads! Thank you to the author, Mary Cain for the early read 🤍 all opinions are my own. Now to impatiently wait for the next one 😂
November 7, 2025
ARC Review
Taylor & Nick have been life-long best friends and they have always had an intense connection. As adults, Nick is realizing that his feelings for Taylor are becoming romantic in nature. Score is the story of what happens following this realization.
What I liked about the book:
- They are truly best friends - there's some real poetry in this and the author does a nice job of fleshing this out.
- The setting was idyllic. I wish I could visit.
- I love Taylor's job at the little inn she was running in her aunt's house - a beautiful homage to her aunt.
- The doggie!
What I would have liked to see:
- Nick is a professional baseball player, but something happens that changes his career trajectory. With that being said, I think the story may have benefited from more of a background on Nick's career.
- Better personal growth from Taylor. She's been hurt by people close to her and that results in trust issues. Those trust issues result in reactions that are somewhat immature for an adult at her life stage.
- A bit more spice (personal preference)
Spice level
🌶️🌶️ out of 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes include:
Friends to lovers
Small town
Coaches Daughter - limited
Baseball - limited
I wish everyone happy reading.
I was so excited to be one of the ARC readers! Thank you to the author.
Taylor & Nick have been life-long best friends and they have always had an intense connection. As adults, Nick is realizing that his feelings for Taylor are becoming romantic in nature. Score is the story of what happens following this realization.
What I liked about the book:
- They are truly best friends - there's some real poetry in this and the author does a nice job of fleshing this out.
- The setting was idyllic. I wish I could visit.
- I love Taylor's job at the little inn she was running in her aunt's house - a beautiful homage to her aunt.
- The doggie!
What I would have liked to see:
- Nick is a professional baseball player, but something happens that changes his career trajectory. With that being said, I think the story may have benefited from more of a background on Nick's career.
- Better personal growth from Taylor. She's been hurt by people close to her and that results in trust issues. Those trust issues result in reactions that are somewhat immature for an adult at her life stage.
- A bit more spice (personal preference)
Spice level
🌶️🌶️ out of 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes include:
Friends to lovers
Small town
Coaches Daughter - limited
Baseball - limited
I wish everyone happy reading.
I was so excited to be one of the ARC readers! Thank you to the author.
November 2, 2025
Mary Cain knocked this one straight out of the park—pun absolutely intended.
Step aside, bossy Brody. Hot Dirt Mouth Nick has officially entered the chat, and he’s met his perfect match in the equally sassy Taylor. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. The banter, the spice, the emotional pull—it all hit just right.
This book gave me everything I wanted and then some: a childhood friends-to-lovers story filled with heat, heart, and humor. I loved watching Taylor grow into her feelings for Nick, and seeing him fall for her so openly was just chef’s kiss.
We also get cameos from past favorites (in all the best ways) that made this story feel like coming home—chaotic, hilarious, and full of heart.
Mary Cain just keeps delivering: banter, heart, and the kind of slow-burn tension that ruins your sleep schedule 😅 If you’re looking for a read that’s equal parts heat, funny, and full of swoon, Score is a total win.
I really can’t wait to read what’s next *ahem* Aubrey!? 👀
Step aside, bossy Brody. Hot Dirt Mouth Nick has officially entered the chat, and he’s met his perfect match in the equally sassy Taylor. Their chemistry? Off. The. Charts. The banter, the spice, the emotional pull—it all hit just right.
This book gave me everything I wanted and then some: a childhood friends-to-lovers story filled with heat, heart, and humor. I loved watching Taylor grow into her feelings for Nick, and seeing him fall for her so openly was just chef’s kiss.
We also get cameos from past favorites (in all the best ways) that made this story feel like coming home—chaotic, hilarious, and full of heart.
Mary Cain just keeps delivering: banter, heart, and the kind of slow-burn tension that ruins your sleep schedule 😅 If you’re looking for a read that’s equal parts heat, funny, and full of swoon, Score is a total win.
I really can’t wait to read what’s next *ahem* Aubrey!? 👀
November 5, 2025
This is a friends-to-lovers, he falls first book! Swoon! Taylor is an independent business owner, trying to prove her worth (to herself), a dog mama, sexy and unaware, playful and full of sarcasm. Nick is the ultimate book boyfriend- athletic (former pro baseballer), mama’s boy, witty and smart, and he is so far gone for his best friend!
This is a slow-burn for sure, but the scenes are hot! And let me tell you, I am here for it!!
Score discusses some mental health issues that feel relatable. I love Nicks support of Taylor, and the constant reassurance and centering he does for her. I loved watching Taylors feelings for Nick emerge and grow from friendship to romantic.
Appearances and mentions of past characters and how they weave with this storyline were ideal! This book can be read as a stand alone and not feel lost! I love this small town vibe Score provided.
This is a slow-burn for sure, but the scenes are hot! And let me tell you, I am here for it!!
Score discusses some mental health issues that feel relatable. I love Nicks support of Taylor, and the constant reassurance and centering he does for her. I loved watching Taylors feelings for Nick emerge and grow from friendship to romantic.
Appearances and mentions of past characters and how they weave with this storyline were ideal! This book can be read as a stand alone and not feel lost! I love this small town vibe Score provided.
November 5, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. Definitely spicy 🥵
I received this as an ARC & this is my personal opinion.
The plot was good. It’s third person POV, which I typically don’t read. I connect better with first person POV, but the story was written well enough, so after a few chapters, I didn’t really mind it. It’s the 3rd book in an interconnected series, but I read as a stand-alone, as this was my first book by Mary Cain. It took me a bit longer than normal to read. I think I wasn’t in the mood for a “ fluffier” romance, but I will never DNF. I pushed on, and it got more interesting.
After reading reviews about the first two books, those might be more up my alley 😈
🩷childhood Friends to lovers romance
🤪 playful banter
👀 Blackmail
⚾️ player MMC ( my favorite sport) I could just picture Nick in those baseball pants 🤤
And did I mention spice 🥵. Oh yeah.. there’s lots of spice.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. Definitely spicy 🥵
I received this as an ARC & this is my personal opinion.
The plot was good. It’s third person POV, which I typically don’t read. I connect better with first person POV, but the story was written well enough, so after a few chapters, I didn’t really mind it. It’s the 3rd book in an interconnected series, but I read as a stand-alone, as this was my first book by Mary Cain. It took me a bit longer than normal to read. I think I wasn’t in the mood for a “ fluffier” romance, but I will never DNF. I pushed on, and it got more interesting.
After reading reviews about the first two books, those might be more up my alley 😈
🩷childhood Friends to lovers romance
🤪 playful banter
👀 Blackmail
⚾️ player MMC ( my favorite sport) I could just picture Nick in those baseball pants 🤤
And did I mention spice 🥵. Oh yeah.. there’s lots of spice.
October 16, 2025
i was one of the early readers for Score as I am part of Mary's team.
This book did start of slow for me, but do not let that put you off because it does get so good and very spicy. Taylor is just a massive overthinker and very stubborn, and to start with, i didn't like her, but she sure won me over. I loved how she soon realised that Nick was her one and only. I love Nicks golden retriever personality, and he never gave up on Taylor despite her outbursts and how he helped her through them. Taylor really went through a lot when it came to her family. This book really does make you go through the emotions it made me angry, sad, happy, excited, and just in awe of Nick and Taylor. I can't say too much cause I'd spoil it otherwise, but you need this book.
This book did start of slow for me, but do not let that put you off because it does get so good and very spicy. Taylor is just a massive overthinker and very stubborn, and to start with, i didn't like her, but she sure won me over. I loved how she soon realised that Nick was her one and only. I love Nicks golden retriever personality, and he never gave up on Taylor despite her outbursts and how he helped her through them. Taylor really went through a lot when it came to her family. This book really does make you go through the emotions it made me angry, sad, happy, excited, and just in awe of Nick and Taylor. I can't say too much cause I'd spoil it otherwise, but you need this book.
October 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Score is the 3rd book in the Troublemakers & Heartbreakers Series. Even though the 3rd book in the series, Score can be read as a standalone! I havent read the first 2 books YET, and it didn't effect my opinions or thoughts on Score!
This is a friends to lovers story and it is done soooo well that i had butterflies alot!
I love Taylor and Nick's relationship.
I really felt connected to Taylor due to her anxieties. I also related to Taylor's need to control everything.
This is my first Mary Cain book and it won't be my last! She wrote this story so well. She gave me all the feels! And the SPICE is SPICY!
Add this amazing book to your TBR, and I recommend placing it at the top!
Score is the 3rd book in the Troublemakers & Heartbreakers Series. Even though the 3rd book in the series, Score can be read as a standalone! I havent read the first 2 books YET, and it didn't effect my opinions or thoughts on Score!
This is a friends to lovers story and it is done soooo well that i had butterflies alot!
I love Taylor and Nick's relationship.
I really felt connected to Taylor due to her anxieties. I also related to Taylor's need to control everything.
This is my first Mary Cain book and it won't be my last! She wrote this story so well. She gave me all the feels! And the SPICE is SPICY!
Add this amazing book to your TBR, and I recommend placing it at the top!
October 19, 2025
Nick and Taylor have been friends forever. Taylor’s dad coached Nick’s baseball team growing up and they were always around each other. When Nick went pro, Taylor was always cheering him on. Unfortunately he got hurt and his baseball career comes to an early end. When him and Taylor spend more time together things heat up.
Mary nailed it in this friends to lovers steamy romance. I can’t stop thinking about the flashlight tag and dugout scene ❤️🔥 I also loved the fact that they would build Lego sets together!
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
He Falls First
Coaches daughter
Banter and steam
Flashlight Tag
Dog Mom
Mary nailed it in this friends to lovers steamy romance. I can’t stop thinking about the flashlight tag and dugout scene ❤️🔥 I also loved the fact that they would build Lego sets together!
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
He Falls First
Coaches daughter
Banter and steam
Flashlight Tag
Dog Mom
October 27, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ 4🌶️
I’m thankful to have been provided with the ARC. I loved this book! Nick was the ultimate book boyfriend. He was sweet, attentive, possessive, protective, sexy, and smart. He was probably my favorite character!
Taylor wasn’t my favorite, but I did like that she was driven and independent. She struggled internally and dealt with some mental health issues. Nick really stepped up to support her and be there for her. I was just a little annoyed by how often he had to reassure her. I’m glad she decided to get help in the end, though. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author!
I’m thankful to have been provided with the ARC. I loved this book! Nick was the ultimate book boyfriend. He was sweet, attentive, possessive, protective, sexy, and smart. He was probably my favorite character!
Taylor wasn’t my favorite, but I did like that she was driven and independent. She struggled internally and dealt with some mental health issues. Nick really stepped up to support her and be there for her. I was just a little annoyed by how often he had to reassure her. I’m glad she decided to get help in the end, though. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author!
October 31, 2025
Score is book three of the Troublemakers & Heartbreakers Series.
This one might be my favourite so far from the series. I enjoyed seeing Nick embrace his feelings for Taylor. He is finally able to attempt a relationship with her and there was nothing that was going to stop him from showing Taylor how much he cared about her. Where Taylor was straightlaced, Nick was goofy. I loved how these two worked so well together. Being the best of friends had already set the ground work for their relationship to go further. She was hesitant at first as she didn't want to lose her friend, but there is something about Nick that you just can't help but love. Loved this story.
This one might be my favourite so far from the series. I enjoyed seeing Nick embrace his feelings for Taylor. He is finally able to attempt a relationship with her and there was nothing that was going to stop him from showing Taylor how much he cared about her. Where Taylor was straightlaced, Nick was goofy. I loved how these two worked so well together. Being the best of friends had already set the ground work for their relationship to go further. She was hesitant at first as she didn't want to lose her friend, but there is something about Nick that you just can't help but love. Loved this story.
November 5, 2025
This series just keeps getting better! In this installment we find Taylor and Nick, childhood friends. Nick finally got his chance to play major league baseball, but after a career ending injury he's decided the time is right to finally tell Taylor how he feels about her. Taylor is dedicated to making her inn successful, but when a client's cheating husband tries to blackmail her, she may have to risk it all. Will they be able to navigate their new relationship without ruining their lifelong friendship?
Cain has done it again with the latest Troublemakers and Heartbreakers novel. The banter is witty. The players are hot. And the action is steamy! I couldn't put it down!
Cain has done it again with the latest Troublemakers and Heartbreakers novel. The banter is witty. The players are hot. And the action is steamy! I couldn't put it down!
October 17, 2025
This was such a great story! I had high hopes because I loved the first two books in the series (Hustle and Bang), and Score definitely lived up to my expectations! I'm not usually a big fan of the friends to lovers trope, but Mary Cain did it so well in this story that the transition for the main characters was seamless. The characters are three dimensional and believable, and I fell in love with them so much that I was actually sad when the story was over! Can't wait to read more from this author!
October 29, 2025
This was book 3 of the series, but can be read as a standalone. Best friends who become more… the spice is so on-point! The MMC falls first, but they both fall hard when the Baseball player gets injured and sets his sights on his new game plan – winning her heart. I devoured the book and the funny banter between the couple as well as all the hijinks friends old and new have occur. I can’t wait to go back and read the previous 2 books and hope there is many more in the series to come!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2025
My ARC Review of “Score” by Mary Cain
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Score by Mary Cain, and wow, it was a great story.
This story follows a best-friends-to-lovers journey between Taylor and Nick, and it’s absolutely adorable. Taylor is a bit of a control freak with anxiety. Nick, on the other hand, is that golden-retriever type of guy, sweet, loyal, over-the-top in the best way, and hopelessly in love with his best friend. Watching their friendship shift into something more was pure joy.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Score by Mary Cain, and wow, it was a great story.
This story follows a best-friends-to-lovers journey between Taylor and Nick, and it’s absolutely adorable. Taylor is a bit of a control freak with anxiety. Nick, on the other hand, is that golden-retriever type of guy, sweet, loyal, over-the-top in the best way, and hopelessly in love with his best friend. Watching their friendship shift into something more was pure joy.
November 1, 2025
Another 5 star read! Mary, I don’t know how you do it but please don’t stop! I loved this book from the start. Life long friends to lovers with some major spice. The FMC has a lot of weight from life and like most of us she doesn’t carry it well, while the MMC makes the best out of everything and finds the fun in any situation. This makes them the perfect recipe for balance! Let’s not forget about Cal, the beat dog in book land! Can be read as a stand alone. However, if you are familiar with book 1 and 2 you will love the visits from our favorite troublemakers.
October 23, 2025
This is book three and I adored it. It deals with best friends and trying to find the right timing for things. The MMC Nick is a baseball player that life throws a curve ball to. Now he must decide what he wants to do in life and go after his true desire. The FMC Taylor got on my nerves at times, like women just take one for the team. The banter is sharp, the spice is well written, and the emotional moments pull at your heart strings.
October 29, 2025
Score is another fun and spicy addition to the Troublemakers and Heartbreakers series. This time, Brody's (from book 2) brother Nick and his longtime best friend Taylor are the main characters. The same fun banter and all the extra spice readers of the series will expect. Unpredictable storyline and characters with depth, baggage, and growth. They feel real. Oh, and if you have read the other books in the series, the characters from previous books make appearances. I enjoy the series as a whole and look forward to seeing what Mary Cain does next.
October 28, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Childhood best friends to lovers
🖤 Coach’s daughter
💜 Dog Mom
Nick and Taylor have amazing chemistry and were so perfect for each other. The way they would banter and their attraction and desire for more was there, and Nick knew it, but Taylor was scared to ruin things. This was a great story, very well written with amazing characters from previous books as well as new ones you’ll just fall in love with.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Childhood best friends to lovers
🖤 Coach’s daughter
💜 Dog Mom
Nick and Taylor have amazing chemistry and were so perfect for each other. The way they would banter and their attraction and desire for more was there, and Nick knew it, but Taylor was scared to ruin things. This was a great story, very well written with amazing characters from previous books as well as new ones you’ll just fall in love with.
November 2, 2025
This was book 3 for the Troublemakers and Heartbreakers series but I read it as a standalone (which you can) and I absolutely loved it. It had my attention from the very beginning, the banter was perfection and the spice was 🌶️🌶️🌶️. I really loved the connection between Nick and Taylor, he understood what she needed even when she didn’t. I can’t wait to go back and read the first two books.
I did receive a ARC copy and this is an honest review
I did receive a ARC copy and this is an honest review
November 4, 2025
5 ⭐️
This is my 2nd read from Mary Cain and honestly, I would read anything she writes. along with a strong, easy flowing writing style her characters always check all the boxes for me!
Childhood friends to lovers isn't an easy trope to nail in my opinion because it can be messy but thankfully there is nothing off putting about this amazing story!
You definitely need to start this series ASAP!
This is my 2nd read from Mary Cain and honestly, I would read anything she writes. along with a strong, easy flowing writing style her characters always check all the boxes for me!
Childhood friends to lovers isn't an easy trope to nail in my opinion because it can be messy but thankfully there is nothing off putting about this amazing story!
You definitely need to start this series ASAP!
October 28, 2025
A beautiful friends to lovers romance. Nick and Taylor have the perfect friendship and when they get together and cross over into lovers their chemistry is steaming. Together they can overcome any problem and they work their way through a couple as they get their lives sorted. Their lives are complicated but their love is very pure.
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