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Love of the Game #2
The Right Player
I have a three date rule — but it’s not what you think.
See, I’ve been told I’m the “good time girl,” not the one you take home to Mom. And while that label stung at first, I’ve since embraced it — living the wild and free life and sticking to a three date max. That’s just enough time to have some fun and snuff out the possibility of catching feelings. And it’s been working for me for years…
Until Makoa Kumaka.
Sadly, he also has a three date rule — and it’s the exact opposite of mine. From the second I meet him, all I can think about is stripping down that six-foot-five Herculean hunk of a man. But like the gentleman I wish he wasn’t, he’s making me wait.
The more time we spend together, the more I feel those pesky emotions creeping in. I’m even tempted to trust him, but blame it on my past or my instincts, I can’t shake the feeling that he’s hiding something…
I’ve been playing the game forever, and no man has ever won my heart — which meant they never had the power to break it.
But maybe I just hadn’t met the right player.
Maybe I’ll wish I never did.
See, I’ve been told I’m the “good time girl,” not the one you take home to Mom. And while that label stung at first, I’ve since embraced it — living the wild and free life and sticking to a three date max. That’s just enough time to have some fun and snuff out the possibility of catching feelings. And it’s been working for me for years…
Until Makoa Kumaka.
Sadly, he also has a three date rule — and it’s the exact opposite of mine. From the second I meet him, all I can think about is stripping down that six-foot-five Herculean hunk of a man. But like the gentleman I wish he wasn’t, he’s making me wait.
The more time we spend together, the more I feel those pesky emotions creeping in. I’m even tempted to trust him, but blame it on my past or my instincts, I can’t shake the feeling that he’s hiding something…
I’ve been playing the game forever, and no man has ever won my heart — which meant they never had the power to break it.
But maybe I just hadn’t met the right player.
Maybe I’ll wish I never did.
320 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2020
1871 people are currently reading
10049 people want to read
About the author
Kandi Steiner
79 books14.8k followersKandi Steiner is a USA Today and #1 Amazon Bestselling Author living in Tennessee. Best known for writing “emotional rollercoaster” stories, she loves bringing flawed characters to life and writing about real, raw romance — in all its forms. No two Kandi Steiner books are the same, and if you’re a lover of angsty, emotional, and inspirational reads, she’s your gal.
An alumna of the University of Central Florida, Kandi graduated with a double major in Creative Writing and Advertising/PR with a minor in Women’s Studies. Her love for writing started at the ripe age of 10, and in 6th grade, she wrote and edited her own newspaper and distributed to her classmates. Eventually, the principal caught on and the newspaper was quickly halted, though Kandi tried fighting for her “freedom of press.”
She took particular interest in writing romance after college, as she has always been a hopeless romantic and found herself bursting at the seams with love stories she was eager to tell.
When Kandi isn’t writing, you can find her reading books of all kinds, planning her next adventure, or pole dancing (yes, you read that right). She enjoys live music, traveling, hiking, yoga, spending quality time with her family (fur babies included) and soaking up the sweetness of life.
CONNECT WITH KANDI:
➜ NEWSLETTER: kandisteiner.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kandisteiner
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (Kandiland): facebook.com/groups/kandilandks
➜ INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/kandisteiner
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorkandisteiner
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/authorkandisteiner
➜ WEBSITE: www.kandisteiner.com
Kandi Steiner may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ www.kandisteiner.com/events
An alumna of the University of Central Florida, Kandi graduated with a double major in Creative Writing and Advertising/PR with a minor in Women’s Studies. Her love for writing started at the ripe age of 10, and in 6th grade, she wrote and edited her own newspaper and distributed to her classmates. Eventually, the principal caught on and the newspaper was quickly halted, though Kandi tried fighting for her “freedom of press.”
She took particular interest in writing romance after college, as she has always been a hopeless romantic and found herself bursting at the seams with love stories she was eager to tell.
When Kandi isn’t writing, you can find her reading books of all kinds, planning her next adventure, or pole dancing (yes, you read that right). She enjoys live music, traveling, hiking, yoga, spending quality time with her family (fur babies included) and soaking up the sweetness of life.
CONNECT WITH KANDI:
➜ NEWSLETTER: kandisteiner.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: facebook.com/kandisteiner
➜ FACEBOOK READER GROUP (Kandiland): facebook.com/groups/kandilandks
➜ INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/kandisteiner
➜ TIKTOK: tiktok.com/@authorkandisteiner
➜ PINTEREST: pinterest.com/authorkandisteiner
➜ WEBSITE: www.kandisteiner.com
Kandi Steiner may be coming to a city near you! Check out her “events” tab to see all the signings she’s attending in the near future:
➜ www.kandisteiner.com/events
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 922 reviews
June 14, 2025
4 stars
Kandi Steiner is known for her angst filled books that are heavy with emotion, but sometimes I forget how well she does fun and lighter stories. I mean, this book has the sweetest and swooniest hero I've read about all year. Makoa is a guy you want to meet!
After reading 'The Wrong Game' last year, I was curious who would be paired with Gemma's maneater best friend, Belle. A guy like Makoa is just who she needs. You see, Mak and Belle both have a three date rule. But... and this is a big but... Belle only keeps a guy around for three dates, and Mak won't sleep with someone until three dates.
Belle had a bad experience with an ex in college and it put her off relationships. Mak has always been the nice guy put in the friend zone, but now that he's in the NFL he's the guy that girls want to use for fame/money/etc. So he keeps quiet about his job when he first meets Belle. Belle and Mak have fantastic banter and such a great connection. I mean, that Broadway date...swoon. That seriously seems like the most perfect date ever!
This story was so cute and fun, and it was mostly light but there were some secrets you were just waiting to come out. I was a bit nervous waiting for the other shoe to drop. I loved both Belle and Mak, though Mak was definitely my favorite. Like, could Kandi have written a more perfect guy (I mean, maybe Logan Becker but Mak is a close second). I seriously love the nice guy troupe and this one was great for me.
If you're looking for a romance that will sweep you off your feet, pick up The Right Player.
I never expected Belle Monroe.
Kandi Steiner is known for her angst filled books that are heavy with emotion, but sometimes I forget how well she does fun and lighter stories. I mean, this book has the sweetest and swooniest hero I've read about all year. Makoa is a guy you want to meet!
After reading 'The Wrong Game' last year, I was curious who would be paired with Gemma's maneater best friend, Belle. A guy like Makoa is just who she needs. You see, Mak and Belle both have a three date rule. But... and this is a big but... Belle only keeps a guy around for three dates, and Mak won't sleep with someone until three dates.
Belle had a bad experience with an ex in college and it put her off relationships. Mak has always been the nice guy put in the friend zone, but now that he's in the NFL he's the guy that girls want to use for fame/money/etc. So he keeps quiet about his job when he first meets Belle. Belle and Mak have fantastic banter and such a great connection. I mean, that Broadway date...swoon. That seriously seems like the most perfect date ever!
This story was so cute and fun, and it was mostly light but there were some secrets you were just waiting to come out. I was a bit nervous waiting for the other shoe to drop. I loved both Belle and Mak, though Mak was definitely my favorite. Like, could Kandi have written a more perfect guy (I mean, maybe Logan Becker but Mak is a close second). I seriously love the nice guy troupe and this one was great for me.
If you're looking for a romance that will sweep you off your feet, pick up The Right Player.
"You were worth the wait."
February 8, 2021
3.75 stars
This was my first Kandi Steiner book.
I've been meaning to read some of her work for a long time but since her best stuff is very angsty, rip your heart out type of stories (and I'm all about the fluffy feel good stuff atm), I thought I'd try one of her rom-coms.
It was a good choice. Definitely a sweet story with a very very sweet hero (a bit too sweet at times and a forever romantic). I liked the writing so that bodes well for future reads.
The only thing that kinda exasperated me was the heroine's hang up about not being the kind of girl that guys bring to introduce to their mom but the one they use for a good time. Just because 10 years ago in college, a guy said that to her, she lived her life truly thinking that and missed on genuine connections because what? A D-bag, used you and put a label on you. That's on him honey, not you, and 10 years is a long time to still have that hanging over your head and to let it undermine and undervalue your own worth. I get that its the sort of thing that leaves a mark on you but I just think that she should have shown some growth within that 10 years not only after meeting the H.
Again, the H was a great guy but also an idiot in certain aspects (not gonna spoil why, it wasn't a big deal but it was annoying). Overall, they did make a cute couple and had some sweet and some very steamy moments so yeah, glad I picked this one up but next time I'm gonna go with this author's angsty stories.
This was my first Kandi Steiner book.
I've been meaning to read some of her work for a long time but since her best stuff is very angsty, rip your heart out type of stories (and I'm all about the fluffy feel good stuff atm), I thought I'd try one of her rom-coms.
It was a good choice. Definitely a sweet story with a very very sweet hero (a bit too sweet at times and a forever romantic). I liked the writing so that bodes well for future reads.
The only thing that kinda exasperated me was the heroine's hang up about not being the kind of girl that guys bring to introduce to their mom but the one they use for a good time. Just because 10 years ago in college, a guy said that to her, she lived her life truly thinking that and missed on genuine connections because what? A D-bag, used you and put a label on you. That's on him honey, not you, and 10 years is a long time to still have that hanging over your head and to let it undermine and undervalue your own worth. I get that its the sort of thing that leaves a mark on you but I just think that she should have shown some growth within that 10 years not only after meeting the H.
Again, the H was a great guy but also an idiot in certain aspects (not gonna spoil why, it wasn't a big deal but it was annoying). Overall, they did make a cute couple and had some sweet and some very steamy moments so yeah, glad I picked this one up but next time I'm gonna go with this author's angsty stories.
Read
September 24, 2020 NOW LIVE and FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
🏈"Clever, sweet, and OH SO SEXY!" -- Bestselling Author Staci Hart
🏈"Readers will love this sweet and sassy opposites-attract sports romance!" -- USA Today Bestselling Author K.K. Allen
The Right Player -- a fun, sexy sports romance -- is NOW LIVE and ready to devour in Kindle Unlimited!
🏈 READ NOW! ➔ geni.us/TheRightPlayer
You'll love The Right Player if you love:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🏈 Romantic Comedy
🏈 Sassy Heroines
🏈 Swoony Heroes
🏈 Hilarious Best Friends
🏈 Chicago/City Vibes
———————————————————
BLURB:
I have a three date rule — but it’s not what you think.
See, I’ve been told I’m the “good time girl,” not the one you take home to Mom. And while that label stung at first, I’ve since embraced it — living the wild and free life and sticking to a three date max. That’s just enough time to have some fun and snuff out the possibility of catching feelings. And it’s been working for me for years…
Until Makoa Kumaka.
Sadly, he also has a three date rule — and it’s the exact opposite of mine. From the second I meet him, all I can think about is stripping down that six-foot-five Herculean hunk of a man. But like the gentleman I wish he wasn’t, he’s making me wait.
The more time we spend together, the more I feel those pesky emotions creeping in. I’m even tempted to trust him, but blame it on my past or my instincts, I can’t shake the feeling that he’s hiding something…
I’ve been playing the game forever, and no man has ever won my heart — which meant they never had the power to break it.
But maybe I just hadn’t met the right player.
Maybe I’ll wish I never did.
———————————————————
And now, a Goodreads exclusive sneak peek inside...
The longer he kissed me and trapped me between that door, the more my impatience grew. When I couldn’t stand it any longer, I unwrapped my arms from around his neck, confident that he had me, and slid the strap of my romper off my left shoulder.
But before I could wiggle out of it and go for the other, Makoa stopped me, dropping me to the ground and holding his hand over mine where it was on track to free the other strap.
I paused under his touch, both of us panting, his cock so hard it could easily destroy a cement block, and me so desperate to have him inside me that I literally whimpered when he broke our contact.
Makoa blew out a long, heavy breath, pressing his forehead to mine. “You are the sexiest woman to ever exist.”
I bit my lip against a smile, my lips on track for his again. He caught my kiss with a groan, meeting me with hard, desperate movements that matched mine.
But then he broke the kiss again.
And said the worst three words I’d ever heard.
“I should go.”
“No,” I argued, trying to kiss him again.
This time, he obliged me with a sweet peck and a smile before he guided my hands from where I was trying to unbuckle his jeans to wrap around his neck instead.
“Trust me,” he said. “I want to stay.”
“So, stay,” I begged.
“If I stay, we both know where this is going.”
I pressed up on my toes to kiss him again. “Exactly.”
“I think we should slow down a little, Belle.” His eyes met mine then, and he chuckled at my pouty lip before he thumbed it. “I really like you. I don’t want to mess this up.”
I swallowed, heart pounding for a completely different reason now that he was looking at me that way.
Like he really meant the words he said.
Like he wanted more from me than I could ever give him.
Like I could trust him.
“We can’t let this go to waste,” I tried, trailing my hand down his stomach, over his belt, and wrapping my hand around his length again. I gave it just the slightest pressure, which had him closing his eyes and biting his lip against a groan.
“Devil woman.”
“In the flesh.”
He shook his head on a laugh, looking up to the ceiling like God could save him now as he peeled my hands off him and took a big step back. He twirled me around in a sort of dance move, until it was him closest to the door, and then he pressed two soft kisses — one to each of my hands.
“Goodnight, Belle.”
I wanted to groan. I wanted to throw a freaking tantrum. But something about that man had me smiling in appreciation, like I’d finally found a worthy opponent to play this little game with.
“You’re really going to leave me here…” I whispered, trailing my fingertips over my chest. “All alone…” I dipped my fingertips under the fabric of my romper. “To take care of myself when you could be the one to do the honors?”
I rolled my fingertips over my hard nipple, puckering it so that I knew he could see the outline of it against the fabric when I removed my hand.
Makoa sighed in misery, staring at my nipple like he wanted nothing more than to suck it between his teeth.
But the motherfucker resisted.
“I’ll call you,” he promised.
I sighed when he opened the door, and what was worse… I hated that I actually respected that he was leaving. Zach’s words danced in my mind, and if Makoa really did have a three-date rule, then that meant we were already more than halfway there.
And maybe waiting was half the fun.
Maybe this torture would make the payoff just that much sweeter.
“Goodnight, Mr. Kumaka,” I said when he was in the hallway.
He smirked, framing my face with his hands and a longing sigh that told me he really didn’t want to leave. He sealed his promise to call me with a long, intimate kiss that left me breathless, and then he was gone.
And I stripped down for my second date of the night.
The one with my vibrator.
🏈"Clever, sweet, and OH SO SEXY!" -- Bestselling Author Staci Hart
🏈"Readers will love this sweet and sassy opposites-attract sports romance!" -- USA Today Bestselling Author K.K. Allen
The Right Player -- a fun, sexy sports romance -- is NOW LIVE and ready to devour in Kindle Unlimited!
🏈 READ NOW! ➔ geni.us/TheRightPlayer
You'll love The Right Player if you love:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🏈 Romantic Comedy
🏈 Sassy Heroines
🏈 Swoony Heroes
🏈 Hilarious Best Friends
🏈 Chicago/City Vibes
———————————————————
BLURB:
I have a three date rule — but it’s not what you think.
See, I’ve been told I’m the “good time girl,” not the one you take home to Mom. And while that label stung at first, I’ve since embraced it — living the wild and free life and sticking to a three date max. That’s just enough time to have some fun and snuff out the possibility of catching feelings. And it’s been working for me for years…
Until Makoa Kumaka.
Sadly, he also has a three date rule — and it’s the exact opposite of mine. From the second I meet him, all I can think about is stripping down that six-foot-five Herculean hunk of a man. But like the gentleman I wish he wasn’t, he’s making me wait.
The more time we spend together, the more I feel those pesky emotions creeping in. I’m even tempted to trust him, but blame it on my past or my instincts, I can’t shake the feeling that he’s hiding something…
I’ve been playing the game forever, and no man has ever won my heart — which meant they never had the power to break it.
But maybe I just hadn’t met the right player.
Maybe I’ll wish I never did.
———————————————————
And now, a Goodreads exclusive sneak peek inside...
The longer he kissed me and trapped me between that door, the more my impatience grew. When I couldn’t stand it any longer, I unwrapped my arms from around his neck, confident that he had me, and slid the strap of my romper off my left shoulder.
But before I could wiggle out of it and go for the other, Makoa stopped me, dropping me to the ground and holding his hand over mine where it was on track to free the other strap.
I paused under his touch, both of us panting, his cock so hard it could easily destroy a cement block, and me so desperate to have him inside me that I literally whimpered when he broke our contact.
Makoa blew out a long, heavy breath, pressing his forehead to mine. “You are the sexiest woman to ever exist.”
I bit my lip against a smile, my lips on track for his again. He caught my kiss with a groan, meeting me with hard, desperate movements that matched mine.
But then he broke the kiss again.
And said the worst three words I’d ever heard.
“I should go.”
“No,” I argued, trying to kiss him again.
This time, he obliged me with a sweet peck and a smile before he guided my hands from where I was trying to unbuckle his jeans to wrap around his neck instead.
“Trust me,” he said. “I want to stay.”
“So, stay,” I begged.
“If I stay, we both know where this is going.”
I pressed up on my toes to kiss him again. “Exactly.”
“I think we should slow down a little, Belle.” His eyes met mine then, and he chuckled at my pouty lip before he thumbed it. “I really like you. I don’t want to mess this up.”
I swallowed, heart pounding for a completely different reason now that he was looking at me that way.
Like he really meant the words he said.
Like he wanted more from me than I could ever give him.
Like I could trust him.
“We can’t let this go to waste,” I tried, trailing my hand down his stomach, over his belt, and wrapping my hand around his length again. I gave it just the slightest pressure, which had him closing his eyes and biting his lip against a groan.
“Devil woman.”
“In the flesh.”
He shook his head on a laugh, looking up to the ceiling like God could save him now as he peeled my hands off him and took a big step back. He twirled me around in a sort of dance move, until it was him closest to the door, and then he pressed two soft kisses — one to each of my hands.
“Goodnight, Belle.”
I wanted to groan. I wanted to throw a freaking tantrum. But something about that man had me smiling in appreciation, like I’d finally found a worthy opponent to play this little game with.
“You’re really going to leave me here…” I whispered, trailing my fingertips over my chest. “All alone…” I dipped my fingertips under the fabric of my romper. “To take care of myself when you could be the one to do the honors?”
I rolled my fingertips over my hard nipple, puckering it so that I knew he could see the outline of it against the fabric when I removed my hand.
Makoa sighed in misery, staring at my nipple like he wanted nothing more than to suck it between his teeth.
But the motherfucker resisted.
“I’ll call you,” he promised.
I sighed when he opened the door, and what was worse… I hated that I actually respected that he was leaving. Zach’s words danced in my mind, and if Makoa really did have a three-date rule, then that meant we were already more than halfway there.
And maybe waiting was half the fun.
Maybe this torture would make the payoff just that much sweeter.
“Goodnight, Mr. Kumaka,” I said when he was in the hallway.
He smirked, framing my face with his hands and a longing sigh that told me he really didn’t want to leave. He sealed his promise to call me with a long, intimate kiss that left me breathless, and then he was gone.
And I stripped down for my second date of the night.
The one with my vibrator.
July 8, 2021
3.5! This was slightly better than The Wrong Game, and it’s an actual sports romance this time with a football player hero.
September 20, 2020
5 STARS
This is the best seriously, I was melting and swooning with these two!Such a sweet and sexy story!This was exactly what I needed, a heartwarming ,fun and sexy story!
My heart was so full, I'm in love sigh Makoa is my new book boyfriend!He is protective,sweet,gendleman and so swoon worthy!Belle is a fun and strong heroine I could easily connect with her!
This is by far my favorite book from Kandi Steiner!I had a smile from start till the end!!I highly recommend it!!
This is the best seriously, I was melting and swooning with these two!Such a sweet and sexy story!This was exactly what I needed, a heartwarming ,fun and sexy story!
My heart was so full, I'm in love sigh Makoa is my new book boyfriend!He is protective,sweet,gendleman and so swoon worthy!Belle is a fun and strong heroine I could easily connect with her!
This is by far my favorite book from Kandi Steiner!I had a smile from start till the end!!I highly recommend it!!
September 23, 2020
3.5 stars.
First off, I love a sweet, swoony hero and that was definitely Makoa. He just wanted to love a girl and spoil her and be a good boyfriend. He was so sweet with Belle and never wanted to move too fast or make her feel like her ex. This was a really fun sports romance (Makoa is a football player), but I had a really hard time with Belle. She gave off a lot of "not like other girls" vibes and it's been TEN YEARS since her college boyfriend broke her heart. And it felt like something that didn't really make too much sense? I get he hurt her, but it didn't seem like something big enough to truly affect her for ten years and cause her to not trust any guy ever again. And him being a football player had nothing to do with him breaking her heart, so I was confused why she would never want anything ever to do with football again.
I really loved how much Makoa loved his family and how close they all were. Honestly, Makoa and the depth to his character was my favorite part of this book. I was rooting for him the whole time and loved how he was just a sweet guy. It was also fun watching him become friends with Gemma and Zach from The Wrong Game. A big pet peeve of mine, though, is a conflict we know is something from the start that we're just waiting and waiting to blow up and break the couple up. We knew from the start that Makoa was lying to Belle and we just had to wait and wait for it to blow up and hurt Belle. And it did. Overall this was cute and I loved our hero, it just wasn't anything that blew me away and I had a really hard time understanding or liking Belle's character.
First off, I love a sweet, swoony hero and that was definitely Makoa. He just wanted to love a girl and spoil her and be a good boyfriend. He was so sweet with Belle and never wanted to move too fast or make her feel like her ex. This was a really fun sports romance (Makoa is a football player), but I had a really hard time with Belle. She gave off a lot of "not like other girls" vibes and it's been TEN YEARS since her college boyfriend broke her heart. And it felt like something that didn't really make too much sense? I get he hurt her, but it didn't seem like something big enough to truly affect her for ten years and cause her to not trust any guy ever again. And him being a football player had nothing to do with him breaking her heart, so I was confused why she would never want anything ever to do with football again.
I really loved how much Makoa loved his family and how close they all were. Honestly, Makoa and the depth to his character was my favorite part of this book. I was rooting for him the whole time and loved how he was just a sweet guy. It was also fun watching him become friends with Gemma and Zach from The Wrong Game. A big pet peeve of mine, though, is a conflict we know is something from the start that we're just waiting and waiting to blow up and break the couple up. We knew from the start that Makoa was lying to Belle and we just had to wait and wait for it to blow up and hurt Belle. And it did. Overall this was cute and I loved our hero, it just wasn't anything that blew me away and I had a really hard time understanding or liking Belle's character.
September 26, 2020
4.5 It Isn't The Number Of Dates Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-It's Live!!!!
I Love The Way Kandi Steiner Writes Swoon. I have no shame in my desire to feel deep in my soul, the flirt, the sweet, the hot, and yummy times reading Steiner, provides.
In The Right Player, she gave us feisty, smart, and sexy Belle playing the part of an independent woman, hear me roar. She had been burned in the past, so the idea of relationships is off the table. She has come up with what works for her: hitting it, having some fun, and closing it down after a total of three dates. By maintaining control, she has no pain and all gain.
Makoa Kumaka has his own three date rule. He has discovered the ugly side of being famous for being a pro football player. The women are sniffing out how much money his contract was, how big was his signing bonus, and want the ring and tie him up because of the status of what he does, not loving him for the person inside.
In order to feel out the women interested in him, his three-date rule is no touchy touchy until after the three dates.
Period.
Now here is the surprise for these two. Makoa is liking Belle from the start and her not knowing who the hell he is, is this added bonus for him. If he pursues this dating with Belle, he gets to just be with her. Makoa does know there is a hiccup to this idea because lying is never cool.
These two are so much fun together. We get a bit of age difference between them, he is younger, and the sexy times, SWOON. Then there is all the fun with the besties from both. Throw in Chicago, of course, football, and this works on all levels.
I loved The Wrong Guy and this is the perfect partner. I always want more Ms. Steiner so I will keep looking for what's next.
The Wrong Game
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Right Player
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
He's All Mine To Meet!
X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋
August 31, 2020
UPDATE-OH, THIS IS GONNA BE GOOD!
You All Have Heard...
Of The Three Date Rule...
Someone Thought That...
Was The "Good Girl"...
Time To Wait...
To "Give It Up"...
Well, Since Somehow...
I was Labeled ...
A "Good Time Girl"...
I Decided To Roll With It...
Flip It And Reverse It...
No Shame In My Game...
Play With The Fellas...
Enjoy The Three Dates...
Then Cut Them Loose...
Nice And Clean...
No Emotions, No Heartache...
This Was Working Just Fine...
And Then Makoa Kumaka...
Crossed My Path...
Mr. Six-Foot-Five Football Star...
He Had His Own Rules...
They Were The Opposite Of Mine...
We Start Out Little Game...
Dancing Around The Rules We Laid Down...
This Makes For Interesting Challenges...
Because One Way Or Another...
I'm Might Have To Admit...
Makoa Kumaka Was ...
The Right Player- September 24, 2020
X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋
August 11, 2020
Oh, Ms. Steiner...
Now You Have Done It...
Your Rocked Our World...
With the Unicorn Fella, Zach...
In The Wrong Guy...
We Loved Him and Gemma...
And Gemma's BFF...
Was A Force To Be Reckoned With...
Well, Woo Hoo And All The Jazz...
Belle Monroe Is Getting Her Book...
Per Ms. Steiner Herself:
🔥 SPORTS ROMANCE
🔥 SET IN CHICAGO
🔥 FEISTY HEROINE
🔥 SUPER SEXY SWEETHEART HERO
🔥 ROM COM VIBES
🔥 LOW ANGST, HIGH HEAT
Just The Usual Fantastic Elements...
Ms. Kandi Steiner Gives Us...
So Get Ready People,
September 24, 2020 Is...
Going To Be The Day...
Belle Monroe And Us Meet...
The Right Player-September 24, 2020
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-It's Live!!!!
I Love The Way Kandi Steiner Writes Swoon. I have no shame in my desire to feel deep in my soul, the flirt, the sweet, the hot, and yummy times reading Steiner, provides.
In The Right Player, she gave us feisty, smart, and sexy Belle playing the part of an independent woman, hear me roar. She had been burned in the past, so the idea of relationships is off the table. She has come up with what works for her: hitting it, having some fun, and closing it down after a total of three dates. By maintaining control, she has no pain and all gain.
Makoa Kumaka has his own three date rule. He has discovered the ugly side of being famous for being a pro football player. The women are sniffing out how much money his contract was, how big was his signing bonus, and want the ring and tie him up because of the status of what he does, not loving him for the person inside.
In order to feel out the women interested in him, his three-date rule is no touchy touchy until after the three dates.
Period.
Now here is the surprise for these two. Makoa is liking Belle from the start and her not knowing who the hell he is, is this added bonus for him. If he pursues this dating with Belle, he gets to just be with her. Makoa does know there is a hiccup to this idea because lying is never cool.
These two are so much fun together. We get a bit of age difference between them, he is younger, and the sexy times, SWOON. Then there is all the fun with the besties from both. Throw in Chicago, of course, football, and this works on all levels.
I loved The Wrong Guy and this is the perfect partner. I always want more Ms. Steiner so I will keep looking for what's next.
The Wrong Gamehttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Right Playerhttps://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
He's All Mine To Meet!
X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋
August 31, 2020
UPDATE-OH, THIS IS GONNA BE GOOD!
You All Have Heard...
Of The Three Date Rule...
Someone Thought That...
Was The "Good Girl"...
Time To Wait...
To "Give It Up"...
Well, Since Somehow...
I was Labeled ...
A "Good Time Girl"...
I Decided To Roll With It...
Flip It And Reverse It...
No Shame In My Game...
Play With The Fellas...
Enjoy The Three Dates...
Then Cut Them Loose...
Nice And Clean...
No Emotions, No Heartache...
This Was Working Just Fine...
And Then Makoa Kumaka...
Crossed My Path...
Mr. Six-Foot-Five Football Star...
He Had His Own Rules...
They Were The Opposite Of Mine...
We Start Out Little Game...
Dancing Around The Rules We Laid Down...
This Makes For Interesting Challenges...
Because One Way Or Another...
I'm Might Have To Admit...
Makoa Kumaka Was ...
The Right Player- September 24, 2020
X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋X💋
August 11, 2020
Oh, Ms. Steiner...
Now You Have Done It...
Your Rocked Our World...
With the Unicorn Fella, Zach...
In The Wrong Guy...
We Loved Him and Gemma...
And Gemma's BFF...
Was A Force To Be Reckoned With...
Well, Woo Hoo And All The Jazz...
Belle Monroe Is Getting Her Book...
Per Ms. Steiner Herself:
🔥 SPORTS ROMANCE
🔥 SET IN CHICAGO
🔥 FEISTY HEROINE
🔥 SUPER SEXY SWEETHEART HERO
🔥 ROM COM VIBES
🔥 LOW ANGST, HIGH HEAT
Just The Usual Fantastic Elements...
Ms. Kandi Steiner Gives Us...
So Get Ready People,
September 24, 2020 Is...
Going To Be The Day...
Belle Monroe And Us Meet...
The Right Player-September 24, 2020
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 22, 2023
“Maybe it’s the three-date rule.”
I blinked a few times before I turned to look at Zach, confused. “Three-date rule?”
“Yeah. You know… he doesn’t want to have sex until the third date. It’s like the classic dating handbook rule number one.”
I looked at Gemma, who tilted her head to the side as she considered it. “That does make sense.”
“So, you’re saying I’m not going to get any until he takes me out on two more dates?” I groaned, pulling three coffee cups from the cabinet and topping them all off. I handed one to each of them before wrapping my hands around mine. “Who on Earth still does that?”
“Nice guys. Good guys. Guys who are interested in more than just getting in your pants.” Zach shook his head. “Belle, come on. This is a good thing.”
“Tell that to my throbbing clitoris, Zach.”
The Right Player is the follow-up novel to The Wrong Game, with Belle Monroe elevated to the starring role after previously serving as the trademarked sassy best friend. We learn that she’s internalized something her college boyfriend told her: that she’s the “good time girl,” not the one you take home to meet your mother (though I believe Warner said it better in Legally Blonde: “If I want to be a Senator, I need to marry a Jackie, not a Marilyn”). As a result, she only goes out with a guy for a maximum of three dates, plenty of time for fun without the risk of getting attached. But she can’t help noticing that all of other her friends—even the ones with benefits—seem to be settling down except for her. And when she meets Makoa Kumaka, she slowly warms to the idea that he might be worth breaking her rules for.
As with The Wrong Game, there is no question what’s going to happen in The Right Player. They will flirt, fool around, fall in love, there will be a complication, a reconciliation, and they will be set up for a happily ever after. Are Belle and Makoa realistic characters? Heavens no. She is beautiful, fun, sexy, intelligent, talented, low maintenance, and vulnerable. Meanwhile, Makoa is an NFL player who’s built like a Greek god but he’s safe, thoughtful, kind, and devoted to his family. They are both practically perfect in every way. Belle and Makoa are cute characters, and cute together, but I think The Right Player suffered a bit from a lack of secondary characters. Worse, while Makoa also has a secret insecurity, he carries it way past the point of reason. There was a perfectly natural point for him to open up to Belle, and any rational person would have. Only the need to create the third act drama explained why he stayed silent.
All in all, The Right Player has the feel of one of the more one-dimensional Hallmark movies (except for the sex scenes, which are decidedly not Hallmarky, especially the one that served as a complete rebuttal to one of my criticisms of The Wrong Game). A perfectly pleasant, fast read.
September 25, 2020
3.75 Stars 🌟
The Right Player is a sweet, light, fluffy but super steamy sports romance between a professional NFL player and an interior designer. It was fairly low drama & low angst and an all round breezy read.
Belle is a warm, bubbly, funny, strong independent woman but she has been emotionally hurt in the past that leads her to seek purely physical & short lived relationships. She doesn't like to get emotionally attached to the guys she is interested in and is seemingly happy with her view on relationships. We first met Belle in The Wrong Game and though it's not necessary to read that book prior to this one I still suggest it to those who like to read all interconnected books in order.
Makoa is the epitome of a cinnamon roll hero with a bit of an alpha streak. He is family oriented, emotionally aware, sensitive, kind, strong, caring, loving but also slightly misguided. He knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it. Having had his own issues in past relationships he is wary of people's intentions and doesn't trust easily when it comes to disclosing his profession. It made me slightly nervous at times with how long he kept this from Belle but I did understand his reasoning I just didn't like the 'lying' aspect. It's one thing to omit the truth but outright lying is never a good idea.
I really enjoyed this story but it also played out exactly how I was expecting it to. It was a little too easy & predictable as you can easily guess to entire conflict and resolution early on which honestly I don't mind but I would've really loved a bit more from the story. The cameo's of Gemma & Zach aswell as the additions of Makoa's family & some of his heritage truly made this book special.
This is the perfect book for those looking for a quick, easy, stress free read to distract you from the real world & if you have read and enjoyed Neat by Kandi Steiner then you will probably also enjoy this book.
《book aesthetic made by me. I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
《my reviewing system is in my bio for those interested on how I choose to rate books》
The Right Player is a sweet, light, fluffy but super steamy sports romance between a professional NFL player and an interior designer. It was fairly low drama & low angst and an all round breezy read.
Belle is a warm, bubbly, funny, strong independent woman but she has been emotionally hurt in the past that leads her to seek purely physical & short lived relationships. She doesn't like to get emotionally attached to the guys she is interested in and is seemingly happy with her view on relationships. We first met Belle in The Wrong Game and though it's not necessary to read that book prior to this one I still suggest it to those who like to read all interconnected books in order.
Makoa is the epitome of a cinnamon roll hero with a bit of an alpha streak. He is family oriented, emotionally aware, sensitive, kind, strong, caring, loving but also slightly misguided. He knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after it. Having had his own issues in past relationships he is wary of people's intentions and doesn't trust easily when it comes to disclosing his profession. It made me slightly nervous at times with how long he kept this from Belle but I did understand his reasoning I just didn't like the 'lying' aspect. It's one thing to omit the truth but outright lying is never a good idea.
I really enjoyed this story but it also played out exactly how I was expecting it to. It was a little too easy & predictable as you can easily guess to entire conflict and resolution early on which honestly I don't mind but I would've really loved a bit more from the story. The cameo's of Gemma & Zach aswell as the additions of Makoa's family & some of his heritage truly made this book special.
This is the perfect book for those looking for a quick, easy, stress free read to distract you from the real world & if you have read and enjoyed Neat by Kandi Steiner then you will probably also enjoy this book.
《book aesthetic made by me. I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
《my reviewing system is in my bio for those interested on how I choose to rate books》
September 9, 2020
They say all Kandi Steiner readers are in one of two camps--angsty or swoony. As a gigantic chicken (cheating gives me night terrors, y'all), I'm the president of the swoon fam, and Kandi has hit all the right buttons with The Right Player.
Not only was it clever, sweet, and OH SO SEXY, but it was just so full of love.
Belle isn't interested in commitment--historically, this is where she gets her heart broken, and she's done with that. But all Makoa wants is a girl who's true, who doesn't want him for the fame or the money. He just wants to be loved for who he is, and that just breaks my goddamn heart. But he keeps a secret from Belle that holds the power to break both of their hearts.
You guys are going to LOVE this one--don't miss it! Get ready to SWOON your hearts out <3
Not only was it clever, sweet, and OH SO SEXY, but it was just so full of love.
Belle isn't interested in commitment--historically, this is where she gets her heart broken, and she's done with that. But all Makoa wants is a girl who's true, who doesn't want him for the fame or the money. He just wants to be loved for who he is, and that just breaks my goddamn heart. But he keeps a secret from Belle that holds the power to break both of their hearts.
You guys are going to LOVE this one--don't miss it! Get ready to SWOON your hearts out <3
September 30, 2020
3.25-.5 stars
It was...
*RTC*
It was...
*RTC*
October 7, 2022
The story starts with Belle dating the guy Gemma (from The Wrong Game) had taken to a football game with her season tickets. From the other book, we learn that Gemma’s date, Jordan, is a pediatrician but she wanted to be with Zach, and once she realized that Belle stepped in to avoid leaving Jordan high and dry at the football game. As Belle and Jordan dated they had an understanding they weren’t in an exclusive relationship until Jordan met someone he wanted to have a future with. That decision left Belle without a guy to do things with and she implements her 3-date rule: no more than 3 dates so there is no way she can catch any feelings.
THE RIGHT PLAYER
● Belle (32) & Makoa (27)
● interior designer / pro football player
● meet cute: when Makoa hires Belle to decorate his new place except he lied about his job
● M - is used to women only wanting him for his money and fame
● B - is used to guys only thinking of her as the ‘fun time girl’
● these two have trust issues with the opposite sex
● trivia night
● sports romance
● cinnamon roll hero
● standalone
’The Wrong Game’ is in the same world as this story. THE RIGHT PLAYER takes place AFTER the other book but these two books can be read as standalones.
THE RIGHT PLAYER
● Belle (32) & Makoa (27)
● interior designer / pro football player
● meet cute: when Makoa hires Belle to decorate his new place except he lied about his job
● M - is used to women only wanting him for his money and fame
● B - is used to guys only thinking of her as the ‘fun time girl’
● these two have trust issues with the opposite sex
● trivia night
● sports romance
● cinnamon roll hero
● standalone
’The Wrong Game’ is in the same world as this story. THE RIGHT PLAYER takes place AFTER the other book but these two books can be read as standalones.
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Mia Madison & Leon Nixon
Length: 7H 57M
June 12, 2022
2.5 I’m so disappointed! I loved the first book soooo much but I just couldn’t connect with this one. My favorite parts were the glimpses we got of Zach and Gemma. The writing was still very good, no doubt. My problem was the male MC and his decisions and I hated the wrap up sooo much. Don’t regret reading but it just ok.
September 8, 2021
The Right Player has all the right formula for NA romance. Makoa steals my heart with his adorable sensitive, sweet, sexy character. Miss Steiner done a good job with him.
Belle, I get irritated with her for being so judgemental.
The story, the plot, the romance, everything blending in so nicely. Even the banter is refreshing.
Well done.
4 stars
Belle, I get irritated with her for being so judgemental.
The story, the plot, the romance, everything blending in so nicely. Even the banter is refreshing.
Well done.
4 stars
May 27, 2021
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
When I have a busy day, there's nothing like a good audiobook to keep my mind out of my misery! This one was perfect to entertain me when without it, I would be bored and annoyed to death! 😂😂
If you're a stalker, you know that Sports Romance is one of my favorite tropes, and usually my pick for Audiobooks too.
This one is a perfect mix between sweet and hot! A bit of insta lust, and a lot of chemistry between Belle and Makoa... Yep! That's his name, and I loved that he was a huge Hawaiian hottie, with a big family and a bigger heart!
Both characters had been burned before, but while Belle took the route of a closed heart with a no strings attached sex life , Makoa never gave up on the idea of a movie inspired happily ever after.
I also loved her friendship with Gemma, so I'm probably searching for her book too!
It's an easy and simple love story... He's a professional football player, and she swore off all of them, so that's their break point, since he hides it from her.
My 4.5 stars to this book goes for the entertaining... For the fact that it was exactly what I needed at this moment. Easy and light.
I recommend it to pass your time between the hard and intense stories for sure.
🎧 About the Audiobook Narration... 🎧
Narrated by Mia Madison and Leon Nixon, the audiobook was fluid and well narrated...
It took a minute to get used to Mr. Nixon accent, but with a tiki hero, it was fitting like glove.
Read
September 24, 2020 NOW LIVE and FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
From bestselling author Kandi Steiner comes a sexy, hilarious, opposites-attract sports romance set in the lively city of Chicago...
You'll love The Right Player if you love:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🏈 Romantic Comedy
🏈 Sassy Heroines
🏈 Swoony Heroes
🏈 Hilarious Best Friends
🏈 Chicago/City Vibes
From bestselling author Kandi Steiner comes a sexy, hilarious, opposites-attract sports romance set in the lively city of Chicago...
You'll love The Right Player if you love:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🏈 Romantic Comedy
🏈 Sassy Heroines
🏈 Swoony Heroes
🏈 Hilarious Best Friends
🏈 Chicago/City Vibes
October 13, 2022
Oh my gosh, if I thought Zach from The Wrong Game was a cinnamon roll, he has NOTHING on Makoa!!! The biggest, fluffiest, sweetest and gooiest cinnamon roll of all time! Such a cute guy to read about and just what Belle deserves. So it turns out that Gemma’s badass, will kick a guy to the curb after three dates NO CONTEST best friend was burned in college. She dated Nathan for years and loved him dearly, so when Gemma’s longtime boyfriend proposed, Belle was sure she was next.
Only to be dumped after graduation and told that she was such a fun time, but not the girl you bring home to mom, ya know? OUCH. Imagine the toll that takes on one’s self esteem. Enter Makoa,10 years later. He’s in the NFL and used to women throwing themselves at him for his money, and little else. This is after growing up as the sweet boy that girls friend zoned so that they could cry to him when their mean boyfriends treated him like shit. He just wants to love someone and be loved. So when Belle hits him like a sack of bricks and she has zero clue who he is, he’s freaking thrilled. He will tell her the truth soon…promise!
It blows up predictably, but honestly I didn’t really care that I knew what would happen all along. Their reactions aren’t always cut and dry, and KS writes inner dialogue and actual dialogue really well, if not flowery. But these two are actually really smushy on the inside, no matter how badass Belle acts, so I loved reading about these two. And Mak’s oversights we’re freaking hilarious, and Belle’s non-fussiness was endearing!
Only to be dumped after graduation and told that she was such a fun time, but not the girl you bring home to mom, ya know? OUCH. Imagine the toll that takes on one’s self esteem. Enter Makoa,10 years later. He’s in the NFL and used to women throwing themselves at him for his money, and little else. This is after growing up as the sweet boy that girls friend zoned so that they could cry to him when their mean boyfriends treated him like shit. He just wants to love someone and be loved. So when Belle hits him like a sack of bricks and she has zero clue who he is, he’s freaking thrilled. He will tell her the truth soon…promise!
It blows up predictably, but honestly I didn’t really care that I knew what would happen all along. Their reactions aren’t always cut and dry, and KS writes inner dialogue and actual dialogue really well, if not flowery. But these two are actually really smushy on the inside, no matter how badass Belle acts, so I loved reading about these two. And Mak’s oversights we’re freaking hilarious, and Belle’s non-fussiness was endearing!
July 12, 2022
I am so happy Belle got her own book and was able to find her happy ending with Makoa. I loved everything about their story. 🫶🏻
“I’ve been waiting my whole life for you, Belle Monroe. And I’m never letting you go now.”
“I’ve been waiting my whole life for you, Belle Monroe. And I’m never letting you go now.”
September 24, 2020
“So, we’re going to jump?” she asked, pressing her forehead to mine.
I nodded, brushing a fallen strand of hair behind her ears . “I think we’re already in the free fall, Ms. Monroe.”
4.5 ☆
Belle Monroe is the self-proclaimed president of the Singles Forever Club. She has been burned before so she crossed relationships and love out of her life. Makoa Kumaka may seem like an intimidating man, but inside he's just a hopeless romantic willing to do anything to win the girl of his dreams, even if he must keep a few secrets for it. The only thing they have in common is their three-dates rule, but while Belle only dates someone three times and then goodbye, Mak waits until said third date to sleep with someone... complete opposites who must play their chance.
What to expect from this book:
— nice guy trope
— a hilarious and sassy but also vulnerable heroine
— a soft and swoon-worthy romance
— age gap (she's 32 and he's 27)
— great side characters (read The Wrong Game for Belle's BFF and nice guy trope too, they're interconnected standalones)
Overall a sweet and light book with the right amount of drama to squeeze your heart for a bit and a happy ending that's totally worth it 🥺🤧.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for honest review.
March 16, 2023
Recensione sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp2MTUDMl...
⭐⭐⭐⭐, 5
Belle ha infranto la sua promessa. Nonostante aveva giurato che sarebbe stata alla larga dai giocatori di football, non appena nella sua vita arriva Makoa non riesce a resistere al suo fascino. Lei che solitamente odia le relazioni, non può che ammirare la bellezza hawaiana e pura di questo ragazzo dolce e romantico, che non fa alcun mistero di essere in cerca dell’anima gemella.
🖋️Una lettura veloce ma coinvolgente, nel perfetto stile dell’autrice che amo e seguo da tempo, e che sa come catturare l’attenzione del lettore trasportandolo nei suoi romanzi dove l’amore è il fulcro della trama.
Uno sport romance seducente e frizzante, un racconto leggero che non prevede particolari drammi ma che dà particolare rilevanza ai buoni sentimenti come l’amore e l’amicizia, e in questo volume ne troverete in abbondanza.
Mi è piaciuto molto come l’autrice ha saputo costruire personaggi genuini e veri, e anche come ha caratterizzato la loro crescita emotiva, facendoli maturare nel corso della lettura.
Traduzione come sempre eccellente ad opera di @paola.ciccarelli.translations
*Ringrazio l’autrice per la copia fornita e @paola.ciccarelli.translations per avermi inserita nel Review e la collaborazione
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp2MTUDMl...
⭐⭐⭐⭐, 5
Belle ha infranto la sua promessa. Nonostante aveva giurato che sarebbe stata alla larga dai giocatori di football, non appena nella sua vita arriva Makoa non riesce a resistere al suo fascino. Lei che solitamente odia le relazioni, non può che ammirare la bellezza hawaiana e pura di questo ragazzo dolce e romantico, che non fa alcun mistero di essere in cerca dell’anima gemella.
🖋️Una lettura veloce ma coinvolgente, nel perfetto stile dell’autrice che amo e seguo da tempo, e che sa come catturare l’attenzione del lettore trasportandolo nei suoi romanzi dove l’amore è il fulcro della trama.
Uno sport romance seducente e frizzante, un racconto leggero che non prevede particolari drammi ma che dà particolare rilevanza ai buoni sentimenti come l’amore e l’amicizia, e in questo volume ne troverete in abbondanza.
Mi è piaciuto molto come l’autrice ha saputo costruire personaggi genuini e veri, e anche come ha caratterizzato la loro crescita emotiva, facendoli maturare nel corso della lettura.
Traduzione come sempre eccellente ad opera di @paola.ciccarelli.translations
*Ringrazio l’autrice per la copia fornita e @paola.ciccarelli.translations per avermi inserita nel Review e la collaborazione
November 9, 2020
3.5 stars for a beautiful cute and entertaining love story
I absolutely adore Kandi Steiner and her books. Her writing style is flawless and perfect for any love story. Her characters are all totally adorable and intriguing. So are Belle and Makoa and so is their story.
Belle is such a strong power woman, determined to achiev her goals. I love that about her. It's inspirational. Even though she thinks she's not "marriage-material", she carries her head high and tries not to waver.
Don't get me started on Makoa - Whoooaaaa! Seriously? He couldn't be more perfect and swoon-worthy. He's a walking dream come true. Well, true in a fictional senses :D You get the drift ;-)
So, if I'm so excited for both characters and their story, why only 3.5 stars? The thing is, even though their story was quite entertaining and easy to fall for, to me it was quite predictable and almost too smooth. It didn't touch me or got me thrilled or riled up or anything. I had the same feeling with "Make Me Hate You". I missed the angst and didn't catch all the feels, like I know Kandi Steiner's books usually do.
The Right Player is an absolutely swoon-worthy love story that should definitley hit up your kindle!
I absolutely adore Kandi Steiner and her books. Her writing style is flawless and perfect for any love story. Her characters are all totally adorable and intriguing. So are Belle and Makoa and so is their story.
Belle is such a strong power woman, determined to achiev her goals. I love that about her. It's inspirational. Even though she thinks she's not "marriage-material", she carries her head high and tries not to waver.
Don't get me started on Makoa - Whoooaaaa! Seriously? He couldn't be more perfect and swoon-worthy. He's a walking dream come true. Well, true in a fictional senses :D You get the drift ;-)
So, if I'm so excited for both characters and their story, why only 3.5 stars? The thing is, even though their story was quite entertaining and easy to fall for, to me it was quite predictable and almost too smooth. It didn't touch me or got me thrilled or riled up or anything. I had the same feeling with "Make Me Hate You". I missed the angst and didn't catch all the feels, like I know Kandi Steiner's books usually do.
The Right Player is an absolutely swoon-worthy love story that should definitley hit up your kindle!
June 20, 2021
I hated how he kept his career a secret for majority of the book and most of the problems to be miscommunication and misunderstanding.
September 24, 2020
This is the first Kandi Steiner book that I've read but it certainly will not be my last!
This was such a fun, charming, and sexy read. I loved the plot and the reasoning behind why Makoa kept a secret. It makes sense. Yes, it's still a secret that becomes a lie but I fully understand the reasoning based on his history. With that being said, I still dreaded the pivotal moment where the 'shoe would drop'. When it happened? Oh the feels.
I couldn't get enough of this novel or these characters. Both of these characters were so relatable in their own ways and made for realistic characters. It was such a good read and I'm so excited to have a large backlist of Kandi Steiner's to now explore.
***Thank you to Valentine PR as well as the author Kandi Steiner for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review***
This was such a fun, charming, and sexy read. I loved the plot and the reasoning behind why Makoa kept a secret. It makes sense. Yes, it's still a secret that becomes a lie but I fully understand the reasoning based on his history. With that being said, I still dreaded the pivotal moment where the 'shoe would drop'. When it happened? Oh the feels.
I couldn't get enough of this novel or these characters. Both of these characters were so relatable in their own ways and made for realistic characters. It was such a good read and I'm so excited to have a large backlist of Kandi Steiner's to now explore.
***Thank you to Valentine PR as well as the author Kandi Steiner for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review***
October 17, 2020
4 ⭐'s
Makoa's a professional football player from Hawaii. He played for San Francisco for a bit and now he's trying to get on the Chicago team.
If you read The Wrong Game, you know that Belle is Gemma's best friend and boss and she absolutely hates football.
Makoa becomes her client and there are sparks right from the get-go. When Makoa realizes she has no idea who he is, he decides to play on that and enjoy the freedom of not having to worry about Belle being after his money, etc.
I wanted to love this book but I had some issues with both Belle and Makoa. Belle's been "conditioned" to think she is only a good time gal so she's all about the sex. In fact, she doesn't date past three dates. Makoa, on the other hand, is a bit old fashioned and doesn't have sex until the third date. It makes for a lot of sexual tension and I could understand Belle's frustration even if she is a horn dog.
Makoa, Makoa, Makoa...he's a bit of a Beta. Don't get me wrong, he's sooo sweet and romantic but OMG, his lack of taking the lead bothered me. And don't get me started on the crying!
Makoa keeps what he does from Belle for far too long and leads to all kinds of drama. I was really shocked at how Belle handled things.
I really loved Gemma and Zach in the story and what all went on with their relationship. I can't even picture what they did at the end but it was great what Makoa did.
Overall, I enjoyed the story...there were just a few things that threw me for a loop but I'm sure that is all me.
Makoa's a professional football player from Hawaii. He played for San Francisco for a bit and now he's trying to get on the Chicago team.
If you read The Wrong Game, you know that Belle is Gemma's best friend and boss and she absolutely hates football.
Makoa becomes her client and there are sparks right from the get-go. When Makoa realizes she has no idea who he is, he decides to play on that and enjoy the freedom of not having to worry about Belle being after his money, etc.
I wanted to love this book but I had some issues with both Belle and Makoa. Belle's been "conditioned" to think she is only a good time gal so she's all about the sex. In fact, she doesn't date past three dates. Makoa, on the other hand, is a bit old fashioned and doesn't have sex until the third date. It makes for a lot of sexual tension and I could understand Belle's frustration even if she is a horn dog.
Makoa, Makoa, Makoa...he's a bit of a Beta. Don't get me wrong, he's sooo sweet and romantic but OMG, his lack of taking the lead bothered me. And don't get me started on the crying!
Makoa keeps what he does from Belle for far too long and leads to all kinds of drama. I was really shocked at how Belle handled things.
I really loved Gemma and Zach in the story and what all went on with their relationship. I can't even picture what they did at the end but it was great what Makoa did.
Overall, I enjoyed the story...there were just a few things that threw me for a loop but I'm sure that is all me.
May 31, 2022
I really should give this book less then the three stars I’m giving it because it was so disappointing - but I feel like it’s a me thing so I’m gonna try and be a little nice.
This book could have been great if Makoa didn’t lie about what he does for a living for the entire book - obviously that’s gonna blow up in your face - I really hate when romance books are surrounded by the idea of one of them lying - then add on that this whole book was filled with miscommunication and misunderstandings and you might be wondering why I didn’t DNF it at some point (it’s because I’m stupid, that’s why - I kept thinking he’ll come out and be honest before the end but obviously I was wrong)
Then on top of all that - I felt too many similarities between this story and it’s companion book (The Wrong Game). All of the characters had a lot of similar issues and character traits (guys were romantics, girls didn’t want a relationship) and since I read them pretty close together I couldn’t help but compare them and this one kept falling short.
And let’s just close this all off with the fact that he didn’t even have to grovel - he lied and she ended up chasing him down and saying sorry for not hearing him out.
I’m not sure why I’m not giving this book like a 2/5 - I’ll probably regret this choice once I post this
This book could have been great if Makoa didn’t lie about what he does for a living for the entire book - obviously that’s gonna blow up in your face - I really hate when romance books are surrounded by the idea of one of them lying - then add on that this whole book was filled with miscommunication and misunderstandings and you might be wondering why I didn’t DNF it at some point (it’s because I’m stupid, that’s why - I kept thinking he’ll come out and be honest before the end but obviously I was wrong)
Then on top of all that - I felt too many similarities between this story and it’s companion book (The Wrong Game). All of the characters had a lot of similar issues and character traits (guys were romantics, girls didn’t want a relationship) and since I read them pretty close together I couldn’t help but compare them and this one kept falling short.
And let’s just close this all off with the fact that he didn’t even have to grovel - he lied and she ended up chasing him down and saying sorry for not hearing him out.
I’m not sure why I’m not giving this book like a 2/5 - I’ll probably regret this choice once I post this
September 25, 2020
Fun to read. How to describe this book was "between eww, that was so cheesy and ugh, but I kind of liked it." Makoa really a softie man and Belle was not kind pathetic woman, thank God.
July 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 | A Sweet and Spicy Finish to a Fun Duology
The Right Player is the second book in this charming duology, and I loved getting to know Belle on a deeper level. After playing such a key role in her best friend’s love story in book one, I was so excited to see her get her own shot at happiness. Watching her slowly open up to love was both heartwarming and rewarding.
Makoa is such a swoon-worthy MMC, a true gentleman with a soft heart. While I definitely got frustrated with his lack of communication at one point, he managed to redeem himself in a way that felt true to his character.
Their romance was full of adorable moments and creative dates, and the chemistry between them was undeniable. The spice? Definitely spicy.
This was such a cute and satisfying read and an excellent wrap-up to a feel-good romance duo.
The Right Player is the second book in this charming duology, and I loved getting to know Belle on a deeper level. After playing such a key role in her best friend’s love story in book one, I was so excited to see her get her own shot at happiness. Watching her slowly open up to love was both heartwarming and rewarding.
Makoa is such a swoon-worthy MMC, a true gentleman with a soft heart. While I definitely got frustrated with his lack of communication at one point, he managed to redeem himself in a way that felt true to his character.
Their romance was full of adorable moments and creative dates, and the chemistry between them was undeniable. The spice? Definitely spicy.
This was such a cute and satisfying read and an excellent wrap-up to a feel-good romance duo.
September 7, 2020
Readers will love this sweet and sassy sports romance! Perfectly timed for the start of football season, which I think we're all craving right about now ;) Lighter on Kandi's brand of angst, rich on the steam, and just right when it comes to two perfect opposites who attract all the right feels. Loved it.
Read
September 24, 2020 NOW LIVE and FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
From bestselling author Kandi Steiner comes a sexy, hilarious, opposites-attract sports romance set in the lively city of Chicago...
You'll love The Right Player if you love:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🏈 Romantic Comedy
🏈 Sassy Heroines
🏈 Swoony Heroes
🏈 Hilarious Best Friends
🏈 Chicago/City Vibes
From bestselling author Kandi Steiner comes a sexy, hilarious, opposites-attract sports romance set in the lively city of Chicago...
You'll love The Right Player if you love:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🏈 Romantic Comedy
🏈 Sassy Heroines
🏈 Swoony Heroes
🏈 Hilarious Best Friends
🏈 Chicago/City Vibes
September 24, 2020
3.7 Stars
The Right Player is a sweet, fun read, with the perfect dose of drama and although it is not my favorite book by the author it was still a pleasant read.
Makoa is a fantastic character. He has a good heart, is sweet, protective and has an immense patience with protective Belle. And although I think he lied by default, I managed to understand his side of the book. Belle was a character that irritated me until the end, I thought she was childish and silly stuck in something that happened in the past that wasn't even that serious to justify not wanting to get involved with someone. Their romance was cute to see developing and although Belle was not on my list of favorite protagonists I liked the chemistry between her and Makoa.
Makoa's family added fun moments to the book and it was nice to see a close-knit family like theirs, and it was also cool to see Gemma and Zach again.
Anyway aside from my irritation with heroin the book is great and provided a sweet reading.
➖➖➖
The Right Player é uma leitura doce, divertida, com a dose perfeita de drama e apesar de não ser meu livro preferido da autora ainda foi uma leitura agradável.
Makoa é um personagem apaixonante. Ele tem um bom coração, é doce, protetor e tem uma paciência imensa com Belle protetor. E apesar de achar que ele mentiu por omissão consegui entender o seu lado do livro. Já Belle foi uma personagem que me irritou até o fim, achei ela infantil e boba presa em algo que aconteceu no passado que nem foi tão grave assim para justificar não querer se envolver com alguém. O romance deles foi fofo de ver se desenvolver e apesar de Belle não estar na minha lista de protagonistas favoritas eu gostei da química entre ela e Makoa.
A família de Makoa acrescentaram momentos divertidos ao livro e foi bacana ver uma família unida como a deles , e também foi legal rever Gemma e Zach .
De qualquer tirando minha irritação com a heroína o livro é ótimo e proporcionou uma leitura agradavel.
I Received an unreleased copy of this book
The Right Player is a sweet, fun read, with the perfect dose of drama and although it is not my favorite book by the author it was still a pleasant read.
Makoa is a fantastic character. He has a good heart, is sweet, protective and has an immense patience with protective Belle. And although I think he lied by default, I managed to understand his side of the book. Belle was a character that irritated me until the end, I thought she was childish and silly stuck in something that happened in the past that wasn't even that serious to justify not wanting to get involved with someone. Their romance was cute to see developing and although Belle was not on my list of favorite protagonists I liked the chemistry between her and Makoa.
Makoa's family added fun moments to the book and it was nice to see a close-knit family like theirs, and it was also cool to see Gemma and Zach again.
Anyway aside from my irritation with heroin the book is great and provided a sweet reading.
➖➖➖
The Right Player é uma leitura doce, divertida, com a dose perfeita de drama e apesar de não ser meu livro preferido da autora ainda foi uma leitura agradável.
Makoa é um personagem apaixonante. Ele tem um bom coração, é doce, protetor e tem uma paciência imensa com Belle protetor. E apesar de achar que ele mentiu por omissão consegui entender o seu lado do livro. Já Belle foi uma personagem que me irritou até o fim, achei ela infantil e boba presa em algo que aconteceu no passado que nem foi tão grave assim para justificar não querer se envolver com alguém. O romance deles foi fofo de ver se desenvolver e apesar de Belle não estar na minha lista de protagonistas favoritas eu gostei da química entre ela e Makoa.
A família de Makoa acrescentaram momentos divertidos ao livro e foi bacana ver uma família unida como a deles , e também foi legal rever Gemma e Zach .
De qualquer tirando minha irritação com a heroína o livro é ótimo e proporcionou uma leitura agradavel.
I Received an unreleased copy of this book
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