The Way We Score

The Bradford Boys #3

by Tia Louise

We promised our love was forever. A decade later, two little blue lines might settle the score.

You’ve heard of those kids who peak in high school?
Meet my love life.
Garrett Bradford was mine from the moment we saw each other in ninth grade.
Even then, he was a six-foot-four mountain of muscles with bright blue eyes, a wide grin, and a way with his hands.
He was the high school football star, and I was the dance team captain.
We were the storybook cliché… until we weren’t.

Now he’s the most famous offensive lineman in the league, and I’m a buttoned-up, ultra-professional lawyer.
My dancing days are over, and my carefully controlled life is a mess.
Infertility killed my marriage, or that’s what I told myself. Infertility and a cheating ex.
And my inability to get over Garrett Bradford.

One reckless night at his little sister’s wedding is only supposed to be a reunion, a trip down memory lane to a time when life was happier.
Six weeks later, I’m staring at a positive pregnancy test wondering, How did this happen?

I figure I’m on my own until Garrett overhauls his life, moves back to our small town, and shows up every day to massage my feet and hold my hair when I barf and go with me to all my doctor’s appointments.
Our situation has an end date, just like it did so many years ago.
Unless this little score changes the game and gives us the second chance I thought we’d lost.

(THE WAY WE SCORE is a small-town, second-chance sports romance with reunited high school sweethearts, close proximity, surprise pregnancy, a protective Daddy Bear, parents to lovers, it’s always been you, and found family vibes. No cheating. No cliffhanger. No third-act breakup.)

Genres: Second Chance, Sports Romance, Sports, Romance, Small Town Romance, Surprise Pregnancy, Second Chance Romance

350 pages, Paperback

Published January 16, 2025

About the author

Tia Louise is the USA Today best-selling, award-winning author of spicy-sweet military romance, small town romance, single parent romance, and romantic suspense novels.

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Reviews

[Kandi Steiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tia Louise delivers a touchdown with The Way We Score, a heartwarming and spicy small-town romance that’s impossible to put down. Packed with all the feels, this story blends the nostalgia of high school sweethearts with the intensity of a second-chance love story.

Garrett and Liv are the perfect pair to root for. Garrett’s transformation from football star to “Daddy Bear” protector is both swoon-worthy and emotionally satisfying, while Liv’s journey from heartbreak to hope is beautifully portrayed. The accidental pregnancy trope is handled with care, bringing out tender moments that will melt your heart.

The chemistry between Garrett and Liv leaps off the page, with just the right balance of steam and sentiment. Tia Louise captures the raw, messy, and beautiful emotions of rekindled love, proving that some connections truly are forever. Plus, the small-town charm and found family vibes make this story feel like a warm embrace.

With no cheating, no cliffhanger, and no third-act breakup, The Way We Score is a low-angst yet deeply emotional read. If you love protective heroes, close proximity tension, and a romance that screams “it’s always been you,” this book will leave you cheering. 🏈✨

[Gigi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better, and I am so here for it! The chemistry between Garrett and Liv is undeniable. Sure, they went their separate ways, but those old feelings never really faded. Now that they're back together, it’s clear that the spark is still there.

Liv is tough, sweet, but also super strong after everything she’s been through (seriously, what a queen!). And Garrett is this big, strong guy who’s actually a total softie. The way he cares for Liv will definitely melt your heart.

And let’s not forget about the Bradford family. I’m completely smitten with them and their amazing dynamic. Their bond is unbreakable, and no matter what they’ve been through, they love each other (and everyone around them) fully and without hesitation. It’s impossible not to want to be a part of this world.

Read this if you like:
❤️‍🔥 Small Town Romance
❤️‍🔥 Second Chance
❤️‍🔥 Highschool Sweethearts
❤️‍🔥 Surprise Pregnancy

🚨🚨 TW: Cheating (not between MCs), death of parents, parental neglect, miscarriage scare, divorce

[Nadja · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5⭐️
1🌶️

Yeah, no, I did not enjoy this. It dragged forever on the most random stuff—like, I know way more about the chickens her mom keeps than the actual pregnancy. Why?? Who thought that was a good idea?

And Garret’s job switch? What the hell. He goes from being a professional football player to working in animal control? Make it make sense. Dude’s a millionaire—why did he even need a job? He could’ve just stayed home with their kid, but no, let’s give him the most out-of-nowhere career change imaginable. I couldn’t take it seriously.

Oh, and the cover? Not helping. Garret looks straight-up creepy. It was hard to even look at it without cringing.

The one thing I did like? The audiobook. The narrators actually read their characters’ lines, even when it wasn’t their POV. Like, if it was the FMC’s POV, the male narrator still read his dialogue, and vice versa. It seems like a small thing, but I hate when audiobooks have one narrator read everything during a POV—it makes it feel so flat. So props for doing that right.

That said, everything else was a mess, and this still isn’t a book I’d recommend.

[Lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am convinced that these reviews are bots because did we read the same book? I almost DNF'd this book a handful of times but gaslit myself (partly because of the reviews) that it would likely get better. It didn't. And how on earth did the main character just become an animal control officer, while on the bench for the NFL. Puhleeze.

[Olga 🌺 · Rating 4 out of 5]

If there is something you cannot accuse Tia Louise of is being inconsistent. Her books are the typical hallmark heartwarming toe curling "aww" inducing stories.

This is Book 3 in the Bradford Brothers series. A family of 4 brothers and a sister. All the brothers are or have been successful football stars.

Garett being one of them who has been feeling unsatisfied lately with the sport.

Olivia is a former dancer, current successful lawyer.

Garett and Olivia have been highschool sweethearts being cheered on and loved by their families and friends. However, being two independent successful souls, it was almost impossible to maintain a healthy relationship at a distance especially if one of the two was very jealous and posessive, that one being Garett.

Their relationship was doomed to fail and though I understand what might've happened but it wasn't clarified with details and we were left to wonder the ramifications of their earlier in life decisions.

Olivia goes on with her life, meeting someone else and actually getting married. But he was an asshole and infertile but she thought the blame was all hers closing that chapter of her life with a divorce.

In Garett's sister's wedding, their chemistry is rekindled and after a night of passion, Olivia realises that she's been knocked up.

All good and well so far but the fact that Garett, a football superstar is willing to retire and become an animal control officer to later become the sheriff! Is a bit farfetched in my opinion.

But... I loved the rekindling of their romance. I loved that this time around Garett puts Olivia first, trusting her judgement and what she wants.

He was an amazing partner, a great supporter, a best friend and finally an exemplary father.

A beautiful story of a beautiful family.

📝 ticking another Bingo square
(45) "One of the MCs is royal" I am going to get a bit sneaky with this one given that the Bradford Brothers are actually royalty in their own town not to mention superstars in the football world aka Modern Royalty 😁
Squares Count: 77

🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃76┃44
🔴┃86┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃98┃🔴┃🔴┃85┃🔴
🔴┃51┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃24┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴
100┃🔴┃17┃🔴┃🔴┃49┃64┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴
🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃21┃73┃🔴┃🔴┃90┃77
🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴
18┃🔴┃22┃🔴┃93┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃58
🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃05┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃81┃🔴
🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃06┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴
🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃55┃🔴┃20┃🔴┃🔴┃83

[Leticia (jerseygirlsbookshelf) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"In one moment, your entire life can change in the best possible way."
It seems to me that people are trying to change my mind about my least favorite trope… In this case, Tia Louise did just that. Because there’s no way I would be able to do anything but love this accidental pregnancy story!

"She’s always been my forever."
Olivia felt very close to me and I loved her. She’s strong without realizing she is, but it’s all there in the actions. It takes strength to trust again, to open up again. She’s strong even when she’s unsure.

"I’ve never felt so safe as I did when Garrett Bradford held me close."
Falling in love with Garrett was easy. From previous books, I knew he was a real teddy bear who likes to have fun. I knew he was likely to turn on the heat easily too, but I wasn’t prepared for Garrett in Dad mode bringing all the swoon.

"Two measures, and I’m right back to where we used to be all those years ago. Every chance we could get we were together, touching, dancing, holding on like we’d never let go."
Garrett and Liv were high school sweethearts. They were meant to conquer the world together but, as it often happens, they went their separate ways. Garrett is now an NFL star and Liv is a lawyer. Their lives moved on; Liv even got married in the process—but did they? I’m not sure they ever did.

"Still a sensitive spot?"
"You know them all."
Liv is in town at the time of Garrett’s sister Dylan’s wedding, and they do try to stay away from each other. But not only is the entire town pushing them together—fate seems to be lending a hand too.
And turns out they still know each other all too well. Turns out they never forgot who they were. And one night changes everything.

"His palm spreads over my stomach, and he softly speaks the word Mine."
I’ll say this was different from the start. These two were a couple once, but they’re also close. They know each other so well. And the moment when he knows she’s having his baby was absolutely beautiful and very them.
The best thing about it? There’s no doubt in Garrett’s mind about anything. He instantly goes into Dad mode. And that was everything.

I’d like a baby girl, but I’d like her to have a big brother.
Liv: So you want a boy?
I’d still like a baby girl, so I guess we’ll have to do all this again.
Her whole pregnancy was a dream. There’s no limit to what he will do to be with her, care for her, help her… and touch her too. Because Garrett wants more. However, he’s messed up in the past and he’s determined to do it right this time.
Liv was the one who got away, and if it’s up to him—their story will be very different now.

"We’re so close to being back, it’s hard to wait. We’ve been making small steps with each passing week, and I know now, as I cover these miles in my truck, we’re at the beginning. Our second chance starts now."
She doesn’t want them to be together because of the baby. She doesn’t want them to be together because last time… things didn’t go so well. So maybe she’s scared to go there again. But honestly, he’s impossible to resist. And they’re clearly soulmates; it’s just a matter of finding the right time.
And that is now.

"You’ve lost your fucking mind if you think I’ll ever stop wanting to fuck your brains out. Are you kidding me? You’re having my baby, Liv. It’s the most incredible thing I’ve ever been a part of."
His family is all there—yes, up in their business, but all of them are clearly her family too, and I loved that. Her pregnancy is the stuff of dreams. He shows her how much he loves and wants and needs her. He’s there for every single moment.
And, well, all the horniness while she’s pregnant makes for some really spicy scenes, and I loved them all. Maybe one in particular :)

"It’s just like before, just like always. For several moments, I can’t move. I’m lost in this moment, holding the one thing I know is true."
There’s no third-act breakup. To be honest, they didn’t need one. They’ve been apart for way too long. Everything fits into place slowly but surely, and it couldn’t be any other way. These two were clearly meant to be together, and as the book goes on and you see some snippets of what they had, you know their adult versions will make it work.
There’s too much love and their connection is way too deep to fail.

"I dip my chin and kiss her eyebrow, her hair, the top of her head. This is my family. She’s my home."
Their love felt inevitable. Right. And sometimes life gives us a second chance to get the one who was always meant to be, the one who holds half your soul. That's Liv and Garrett, and I loved them.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lot of fun. These two were obviously supposed to get back together whether they had a baby or not. They are absolute soul mates. Garrett knows that he messed up when he was younger and he will do anything to make it right. The fact that he tried to immediately retire was everything.

I received an arc from grey's promotion.

I will say that there was a weird section where they played fuck, marry, kill with different disabilities and that for sure rubbed me the wrong way and is so easy to just take out.

[Shanna Ferris · Rating 3 out of 5]

• Accidental Pregnancy
• Second chance
• One night stand
• Football Romance
• Angst
• No Third act breakup
• "its always been you" vibes

🎧AUDIOBOOK REVIEW🎧
DUET NARRATION
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor and Patrick Zeller

Another win by Tia Louise! And she did a perfect job casting these two to play Garrett and Liv two lovers pulled apart and brought back together after years apart! This is the first book I've listened to in this series and I can't wait to go back and listen to the rest! Tia has been an instant buy author for me for a long time. And I just love the way she writes.

The smoothness of Garrett and Liv's rekindling of their relationship had to be one of my favorite parts of this book! Throw in an accidental pregnancy and I was HOOKED!

Patrick nailed his performance as Garrett, gruff and possessive! I was perfect. And you guys already know that Samantha is a favorite of mine! So when I saw she was narrating the next book I jumped at the opportunity to listen to this one as soon as I could. And of course, she did such an amazing job bringing Liv to life!

[Adrianna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am a sucker for the surprise pregnancy trope. I love it! So when I read the blurb on this book, I couldn’t help myself. However, I did not realize it was part of a series. This is definitely NOT a standalone. There are so many side characters that it was too distracting. I obviously didn’t read the first two books so I had no attachment to any of these characters. It felt like there was too much fluff that wasn’t relevant to this story. I liked the idea of this couple getting their second chance romance. I thought both characters were very likable. However, the story as a whole was slow and boring. There wasn’t enough substance in the main story line. I found myself skimming a lot to get to the parts that actually had to do with this couple and what they were going through.

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was adorable and low angst. Minus the teenage breakup, of course. But their second chance was beautiful!!

5 stars
3.5 on thr spice scale

[Katie Beasley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was everything I wanted for this couple. We got a snippet of them in book 2 which just left me wanting more. Though this is book three in the series, I think it would be fine read as a standalone. I have only read a handful of accidental pregnancy books but what I liked the most about this one is that it was ALSO a second chance romance which I am a legit sucker for! I think the only thing that could have made this one better was if we had gotten some POVs back from when these two were younger. That being said we had Liv who was the one that tried to make their relationship work when they were younger. She is on the other side of a divorce and back in town for Garrett's sister's wedding. We have Garrett who is a professional football player. He was the one that drove them apart when they were younger but has since recognized the error in his ways. He has never felt about anyone the way he has about Liv. The chemistry between these two was instant. I loved how much Liv didn't trust herself around Garret. And I loved how he knew that and kept letting her think she could avoid him. As much as I hated that they didn't get their happy ever after when they were younger, they have since both lived their lives and I loved that fate had a different story for them. They have come full circle. I loved how Garret knew Liv enough to know that he would have to SHOW her how he has changed for her to hear him.

Liv is only in town for Dylan's wedding. That's it. Short and sweet. She knows that she is going to see her ex (the one she is still hanging onto kind of) who happens to be Dylan's brother. But she can limit her exposure to him. But it seems everyone in town including Garret have other plans. She is on the other side of a divorce to a man who never made her feel the way Garrett did. But she has to remind herself that he ended it. At the same time she is only human. So when the night of the wedding happens, she is all in. They relive their glory days. They stay up all night relearning each other's body's. It's epic. But then Liv runs back to Alabama the next day and reminds herself this is for the best. They could never work again. Fate has different plans. Six weeks later she realizes she is pregnant, and it's Garrett's. She doesn't know what she expects from him but it's not what happens. He is elated. He promises to be there for her when he can. He has learned from his mistakes in the past- or so he says. But then he does show up. She has a scare and he flies across the country. He starts talking about retiring and moving home. He talks about them as a family. They haven't discussed what they are to each other other than parents. But Liv can't ignore how he makes her feel. She can't ignore what is trying to show her which is they could make this work. So she goes all in. They play house. He comes to appointments with her. He finds a job. And when he asks for forever she says yes. But then her past comes to haunt her and Garrett does what he does best now- he shows up.

Garrett is looking forward to his sister's wedding but not so much because of the wedding. More because of who is going to get to see. Liv. HIS Liv. The one he let get away because he was young and in the wrong headspace. He knows she got married but then learns she is divorced. The universe has put them together everyone tells him. But he can't see beyond his mistake. So when they have a magical night together he doesn't know what to think. He can't stop thinking about her. But she gets out of dodge before they can even talk. So he is beyond surprised when she shows up at his door to say she is pregnant. And it's his. He learned a long time ago that all decisions can't be about him. He has learned that he is going to have to show Liv how he has changed. She is quick to say they aren't back together but he thinks it's because of how they ended not because of what she really wants. He is just going to have to change her mind. And so he shows up like he didn't before. He flies across the country when she needs him. He comes to the first appointment with her. He figures out how to get home instead of being all alone in New York. He wants more with her but knows the ball is in her court so when she throws it to him he is all in. He is planning the future and just needs her to catch up. All is going well but then Liv's past comes as a bump in the road. But Garrett knows things will work out because fate has willed them together and he isn't going to let her go again.

This was a wonderful second chance with small town vibes, family shenanigans and a dash of professional sports. The spicy scenes were great. The transformation of Liv from a not so confident woman to owning herself was done well. The way that Garrett got her to trust him again was perfect. I also liked the teasing of Jack and Allie AGAIN BUT MAN Tia you did us dirty having to wait another book. I am intrigued to read about Hendrix as I feel like I know him the least. I definitely recommend this series and this book if you haven't already picked it up.

Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Tia for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧🎧AUDIO & EBOOK REVIEW🎧🎧

One of my all time favorite tropes in romance is a second chance to get things right and Tia Louise pleased me to no end with The Way We Score! I’ve already mentioned how absolutely smitten I am with the Bradford clan and my love for them just keeps growing with each passing story.

Before I say anything about our couple, I need to give a shout out to Ms P and her “special” hen because I snort laughed every time she was on scene and the shenanigans were topnotch!

Okay then, back to Garrett and Olivia! I loved their story! It felt so kismet and full-circle like, that it warmed my heart so much. Not only that but considering all the baggage these two carried from their youth, it was very low on the drama. I’m not saying the past was brushed away by any means, but Tia made sure to focus the story more on the present and not the past. Yes, mistakes were made when they were young, but as adults, they adulted properly and didn’t drag those mistakes on and on into their present. That’s as true to real life as it gets, and I love that in my romance fiction! Realism is a big part of my critique when it comes to stories and this one was as real and relatable as I think it could have been. The present wasn’t all smooth sailing at all, they had hurdles, but they handled their business like adults and moved forward into the future like they were meant to all along. Kismet.

I love this family and their dynamic so much, but also the community that surrounds them. Tia has created a world where no one stands alone no matter what and even with all the adversity the Bradford siblings have had to face in their past and today, they still love fully and unconditionally! I mean who wouldn’t wanna be part of that world, amirite?

🎧 By now, if you follow my reviews at all, you don’t need to be told the magnificent job that Samantha Brentwood did with this performance because the woman can do no wrong in my book! But I’m gonna tell you anyway! She is so versatile with her voices that I honestly didn’t need to be told who (female) was speaking when because she pays attention to those details in her performances every single time and she’s very distinct with the varied voices she has to perform! EVERY TIME! I wanna be her when I grow up! *heart eyes*

🎧 Now listen, about Patrick Zeller, he’s not a favorite of mine. I’ve listened to very few audiobooks that he has narrated and out of those, as a whole, the performances have been top notch, but he’s not a favorite of mine. His cadence doesn’t come across smoothly enough and it just reminds me of someone “reading” and not performing. He doesn’t come across conversational even when he’s having conversations. Feel me? Anywho, he did okay this time. That’s my honest assessment.

[Catarina Vieira | umlivroduplicado · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I tell you that I had high expectations for this book and I still loved it, I am not exaggerating it.

It’s not a surprise that I really, really love accidental pregnancy and there’s always something so sweet about the whole thing that makes me smile bigger than any other.

Garrett and Liv were just that couple that we can feel that they always loved each other and are truly obsessed. Their chemistry was insane and I found myself kicking my feet with every little conversation they had. Dear Lord, how I love small things!

The way the main character acts immediately when he finds out Liv is pregnant was amazing and I truly loved how he jumped immediately to the “papa bear” version! He truly outdid himself - and I was already on my knees for him so that’s saying A LOT!!

Liv was spectacular as well and I loved to see her falling in love with the small-town again and her relationship with her mother? UGH, I LOVE THEM!!

Tia’s sense of humor is still one of a kind and I loved every single book in this series and I can’t recommend it more SO PLEASE READ IT.

[meghan · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had no idea this was the third book in a series LMAO. I liked the romance i thought it was cute and well done but i’m kinda pissed like why did garrett need a job in law enforcement oh my gawwwwdd. Dude is a millionaire he literally did not need a job lmao. Also too many pop culture references, it took me out of the story

[Confessions of a Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You've never been broken, Liv. You're perfect."

My goodness this series just gets better and better. Liv and Garrett are getting a second chance after being apart for so many years. Second chances are one of my absolute favorite tropes and with Tia Louise writing it I knew I would be hooked immediately.

Both Liv and Garrett ending up back in their hometown at the same time was meant to be in my eyes. It is crystal clear how much they belong together. The chemistry is so strong between them that even the number of years spent apart didn't matter, it felt like they were picking up right where they left off. Naturally their first face to face was a bit awkward but it was also the wake-up call Garrett needed and he is not about to lose the love of his life a second time.

Garrett is so devoted to Liv and starts to make important changes in his life when he finds out she is pregnant (not a spoiler, Amazon has it listed as a trope). As a professional football player in New York his heart is no longer in it but back in Alabama with Liv. He makes her and the baby the center of his world and I enjoyed every single second of it.

Ms. Louise knows how to make a reader's heart grow fond of her characters, not just the main ones but ALL of them and TWWS is no exception. Once again she teases certain characters and she threw in one doozy of a teaser/plot twist that has me so excited for the next book.

********AUDIO REVIEW********
Samantha Brentmoor and Patrick Zeller provide hours of listening pleasure with this one. Samantha is always a pleasure to listen to. She adds a little southern twang to the characters and hits the emotions without over exaggerating. She has her own little touch she puts on each character, it's hard to explain.

Patrick Zeller is a new to me narrator and I am ready to run and listen to so much more from him. His voice is perfect for Garrett who has been described as a pretty big fella, I mean his nickname is Grizz. Mr. Zeller seemed to have given 110% to bringing Garrett to life. The way his voice would change according to how the story was told (i.e. whisper, yell, sad, etc)...I was so impressed.

Together he and Ms. Brentmoor make an exception duet team. I love the sound of both of them together.

[Vrinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ★

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, heck all the Bradford Boys’ stories, are completely bingeable! From the moment I started The Way We Score until I reached the last page, I could not put it down.





I love a low angst romance that is filled with family and friends. Add in fun and creative ways to include children or animals and I’m loving it even harder. Tia Louise took things to a whole new level of entertainment as she included them all in this story and did so in a way that never felt contrived.





This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend you indulge in all the books in this series. I can’t wait for the next one!

Dual POV
Safe no ow/om drama; they were each with others during the years they were not together
Triggers no apparent triggers
Steam 5/5; explicit

[Marrissa Horton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute small town, second chance! I’ve been loving getting to know the Bradford family throughout the series, so it was fun to have them all together to celebrate a wedding. I enjoyed Garrett and Olivia and their “it’s always been you” love story. He was so kind to her, and protective and would do anything to make her happy. And Olivia was driven, lovable, and relatable. If you’re looking for a low angst, sweet sports romance, definitely check this one out!

And a moment for the hints into the next book - it’s going to be good! I can’t wait.

Samantha Brentmoor and Patrick Zeller narrated this audiobook in DUET (my favorite), and they were both amazing. Samantha gives us a little accent, which I love, and she can perform any role perfectly. Patrick’s voice was a fantastic fit for Garrett, and he nailed the emotions and personality!

Listen if you like ⇣
Football romance
Small town
Second chance
Close proximity
Protective hero
Surprise pregnancy
Dual POV
Spice

Thank you so much Home Cooked Book Promos and Tia Louise for the ALC!

[Sammy Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

the way we score book review 🏈🤰🏼🩷

absolutely adored garrett & liv’s much deserved second chance romance!!! and add in the accidental pregnancy and meddling family members…loved it even more 😍 garrett was alll innn with liv, she was it for him and always was…like come on…SWOONING 🫠 them having such a good connection after all these years was so sweet and hot dang the heat between these two was oh so good. they were just such a great couple the way they were there for each other and would do anything for one another 🥹 now on to the next bradford brother who always said he was not ready for marriage and babies…hendrix is in for a wild ride and i can’t wait to see it all unfold

tropes:
🏈 football romance
🏘️ small town
🤰🏼 accidental pregnancy
♾️ second chance
❤️‍🔥 “it’s always been you”
🩷 no third act breakup

rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️.5

@tropedandblurbs

[°˖✧˚lindsay˚✧˖° · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF 82%. The writing is very low quality, redundant in pacing, and formulaic to a fault. We’re introduced to so many people at once that the beginning feels like being dragged to a social gathering and abandoned by the person who convinced you to come out. And here I thought reading was supposed to be an escape from realities like that.

Then, we’re introduced to tertiary characters who have backstories that seem like a novel of their own that we’re apparently supposed to know about. Kindle told me this was the first in the series. So now it also feels like we showed up to class without doing our homework that we weren’t aware was assigned.

Might as well just look down and realize we’ve been naked this whole time if only to complete this utter nightmare of an introduction.

My pet peeve in reading is an abundance of sentences that start with -ing words, and this author just made the top of my No-no list.
‘Standing, I …’
‘Turning, I …’
‘Sitting up, I …’
Just… go. Just do it. Person does this as they this. Please.

The pregnancy trope implied a spice scene that incentivized suffering through a detailed description of a wedding containing the numerous people whose names were briefly mentioned, but we have otherwise been given no substantial cause to notice whether they live or die.

So then when *it* finally happened, the rigid writing unfortunately ruined the main event that was mere paragraphs in a chapter of content we couldn’t care less about.

When she shut down the foreplay to just get right to it, I almost screamed, and not in a good way. Guess that’s how most babies are made, but that’s why we read romance books – for the fantasy of the male investment in our pleasure. Should’ve known there wouldn’t be any satisfaction to be had here. That one was on me.

Glutton for punishment, I prevailed to see how the ~shocking news~ was handled. I hate that I was still able to be disappointed, but I truly was.

Opening that chapter with a “congratulations” from a doctor sucks in so many ways. Doctors shouldn’t assume pregnancy is an exciting thing for their patient, first of all. But from a reader standpoint, we need slight world building of the room she’s in, doctor’s appearance, etc. in order to fully feel her reaction. Otherwise it’s just telling a story, not experiencing. And telling a story badly.

One Moment Please by Amy Daws does this trope to perfection, and honestly puts this one to even more shame than it should already receive.

Around 30%, the quality changes entirely. It’s not amazing, but it doesn’t make you want to scream (in a bad way) anymore, which is a plus.

But then! A spice scene. Time for redemption, right? Wrong. It’s written like one long list. A mad lib of all the worst words to describe the act. Jerky, stilted, and fractured. It’s abhorrent.
“My tingling nipples point to the ceiling…”
What a coincidence. That’s exactly where I looked in search of patience.

The rest is written like the epilogue the end of movies sometimes have. The ‘where are they now’ instead of what’s happening now. Pivotal moments are blips.

And then! She mentions the husband stitch! Like it’s some great thing! And not a product of a patriarchal society that takes women who just grew and pushed a human being out of their body and instantly prioritizes affixing the tightness of the entrance of her vagina in sole regard for the pleasure of the man planning on entering it, and none for the person who just performed a miracle who will have complications from such a stitch like permanently painful intercourse, prolapse, tearing!!, etc.

I tried to hold on in hopes it gets better, but the ignorance in that encouragement was all I could take.

[BookishRaquel · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️ | 4.5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Small Town Romance
- Football Romance
- Second Chance Romance
- Surprise Pregnancy
- It’s Always Been You
- No Third Act Breakup

The Way We Score gave me everything I wanted in a second-chance romance. Garrett and Olivia were high school sweethearts who thought they were endgame until they weren't. Years later, they are both home for a wedding and have an incredible night together. Neither really got over each other, but they've built lives in different parts of the country and are miles apart. Six weeks later, Olivia finds out news that changes their lives forever. Now, they must figure out how to navigate their new responsibilities, their feelings for each other, and new beginnings.

Ahhh! I just loved Garrett and Olivia together. They had such amazing chemistry. Garrett was all in on day one and did everything he could to support and protect Olivia. Their situation was messy, but I loved how they handled everything with maturity and with each other in mind. The surprise pregnancy trope is not for everyone, but I felt it was written really well in this story. I was all in for their "it's always been you" romance, and couldn't help but root for their happiness. The Way We Score is a heartwarming story that put a huge smile on my face.

Narration:
Samantha Brentmoor and Patrick Zeller perform this audiobook in duet, and it is an absolute treat. They are the perfect voices for Olivia and Garret and put so much emotion into their performances. Their narration made the story feel real and brought the characters to life in the best way.

Thanks to Tia Louise and Home Cooked Books for the gifted ALC. Opinions expressed are my own.

[Michelle Torres · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dude, no. Idk why I listened to the mailing list from one of my favorite authors saying this book was good. It was so badly written. You could just tell it was a wattpad-esque book. AND the thing that really threw me off the ledge is that this is an NFL player, a professional millionaire probably player, and he quit to be a SHERRIFF?! Deadass the author wrote "scored the winning goal" GOAL, not a touchdown, a GOAL. 1 star

[Renatta De · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF. The author meant well but seemed to not understand things about the characters lives like how contracts work in sports, or language attorneys use, or being wealthy and living in NYC, or how private jets work. These are small things but were so emphasized that they felt big. It kept pulling me out of the world of the book because it felt like a teenager projecting what having these things would be like. And none of these choices were essential to the story, so it was even more frustrating. I wanted to like it but I didn’t.

[Shana · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.75⭐️ | 3.5🌶
This was everything i expected it to be! I love Tia's writing and this book was no exception. everything felt so relatable and warm and spicy. Just those fuzzy feelings you get from a Tia book. Garrett and Liv served! The chemistry, the commitment, the pining. GAHHHH! I loved it. i feel like they really got the ending they were owed, (I was down bad for them from book 1). and can we talk about Dylan?! I feel like she's really grown as a character since her book (book 1) and I am here it. Also, this epilogue, Hendrix's easter eggs... I'm sat! April 10th, I'm ready for you! Thank you to grey's promotions for the arc ☄️

[Jennifer Squillante · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel was a great introduction to Tia Louise, and while it is the 3rd book in the Bradford Series, it can be read as a complete standalone, although I will go back and read the first two.

The Way We Score is a sweet second chance romance where our MCs, Garrett and Oliva "Liv," were once high school sweethearts who had plans for their future until they didn't.
Fast forward a few years later, and Garrett is an NFL superstar and Liv is a kickass lawyer who, thanks to meddling family members, "bump" into each other when Liv comes home to take care of her mother after a fall. One night of stolen moments and a surprise a few weeks later have them trying to figure out their new normal.

I really enjoyed getting to be a part of Garrett and Liv's world. having the opportunity to witness growth in Garrett for his past mistakes and the fact that he is taking ownership of his previous behavior and is vowing to be better, and he is showing her he has changed rather than just telling her, which I think is more impactful. For Liv, it is watching her accept that she is more than enough and does not need to be more than she is to receive love from others. One thing I love about second-chance romance is that the characters are already familiar with each other. I think that that familiarity was written wonderfully and added an authenticness to their second chance.

I loved the meddling family and the crazt chickens. These moments added comedy when needed, and it was a good way to create more depth. The family relationship between Garrett and his siblings is wonderfully written, and I love the family group chat. Liv's mother is great as well, providing just the right push Liv needed.

Thank you to Grey's PR and Tia Louise for the ARC in return for an honest review.

Read this if you like:
❤️‍🔥 Small Town Romance
❤️‍🔥 Second Chance
❤️‍🔥 Highschool Sweethearts
❤️‍🔥 Surprise Pregnancy

[Colorado · Rating 4 out of 5]

A surprise pregnancy and a second chance for love

The third book in the Bradford boys series is a poignant second chance romance with a surprise pregnancy. Garrett and Liv fell in love in high school, but split up when different dreams separated them geographically. Both return to their small home town for a wedding and the old connection is still there. An explosive reunion results in an unplanned pregnancy. After the end of her relationship with Garrett and a divorce from a cheating ex, Liv's confidence in herself and her trust in men is low. Garrett is determined to prove to her that he will be there for her and that he will value her dreams. This couple definitely has challenges; Garrett is under contract to play football in NY - over a thousand miles from their southern hometown. You will love how Garrett demonstrates his loyalty to Liv with more than one grand gesture.

I gave this 4 stars versus 5 because there's some perplexing melodrama in the 3rd act. The motivations are unexplained and don't make sense. (There's an earlier plotline involving a legal case on which Liv is working that's never resolved. I thought that it would have been more persuasive if the author had connected that to the showdown near the end of the book.)

The author treats the physical and emotional stresses of pregnancy sensitively as Liv worries about how her body is changing.

[Super Specific Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super Specific Tropes:
🧸 Big, protective linebacker MMC who plays in the NFL
🧸 Accidental pregnancy between former high school sweethearts
🧸 Small, coastal Southern town that’s charming and inclusive (hello queer representation!)
🧸 Smart, driven lawyer FMC who knows her worth
🧸 Fun, lighthearted family and friends who keep things lively

This series is a reliable favorite when I want something sweet, cozy, and low-conflict. I’m usually picky about small-town romances—sometimes they lean too cheesy—but this one nails it. The town reminds me of Hart of Dixie’s Bluebell: quirky and warm, but also refreshingly accepting, with a close-knit family vibe and friends who’ll love and protect you no matter what.

Liv is a fantastic FMC—strong, smart, and unapologetic about following her dreams, first as a dancer and later as a lawyer. She’s also brave enough to walk away from what isn’t working, which I loved. Garrett? Total Daddy Bear vibes 🧸—he’s protective, devoted, and so excited about their surprise baby, which checks all my accidental pregnancy boxes. Watching them rebuild their connection after all these years (and with a baby on the way) was so satisfying.

If you’re looking for a swoony second-chance romance with a lovable small-town cast, a supportive family dynamic, and a hero who’s all in from the start, this one is for you. Bonus: no third-act breakup, just warm fuzzies all around! 💘

[Annabelle (annabelles.shelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

[Brooke Matthews · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

second chance
childhood sweethearts
accidental pregnancy
always been you

I don't know why but I just did not find the FMC very likable which made me not really like the story. I found it to be a bit dull and way too slow. I love accidental pregnancy but this one wasn't for me.