A Forced Proximity, Enemies to Lovers, Sports Romance
Lo
Of all the men in Blue Valley, Kolby Grimes is the last man I'd ever touch—cocky, brooding, and completely closed off. He plays football for the New York Knights, so my family signs his paychecks. Now he's living under my roof, sleeping one room over, and looking at me like I'm the one rule he wants to break. One night was supposed to get him out of my system. Supposed to.
Kolby
I wanted her from the second I set foot in Blue Valley, but I soon discovered she wasn't mine to have. Her family owns the team, and for all intents and purposes, they own me, too. We've spent years circling each other: me angry, her distant, both of us pretending we don't feel that pull. Now we're under the same roof, and there's nowhere to hide. And for the first time in my life, I'm sick of hiding.
MJ Fields is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance novels. She lives in New York with her daughter Miss A, smoochie faced Newfie, Theo and the newest member to the 'fields crew, rescue diva / holy terror Eleanor. When she’s not locked away in the cave, she enjoys doing home improvement projects, spending time with her family, attending live music and sporting events, the theatre, singing off key, dancing to her own beat, listening to audio books, and reading of course.
The third book in the New York Knights Players Club series and the Lauren and Kolby’s story. And it’s definitely a fiery one!
Kolby and Lo have an immediate attraction and pull to each other. But Kolby gives off the whole mysterious, stay away vibe…and Lo is the owners daughter and completely off limits. Perfect 🤭
A snow storm hits and puts the whole team on lockdown..Lo included. And when she ends up being roommates with Kolby during the storm, things get VERY HOT. They decide to give in and give this feeling between them ONE NIGHT. One night to explore each other and get it out of their systems. But when morning comes, things are even more complicated than before…because what was supposed to be one night with no feelings turns into longing and pining for something more.
Kolby is hiding a BIG secret and it’s been weighing on him for a long time. Having him keep people at a distance to protect not just himself but those around him.
Lo has had a thing for Kolby since he joined the team. And while she knows he’s technically off limits because if her dad, she can’t help but want him. And after that night together, she is trying to remember all the reasons they agreed this could never work.
This book is fun, the banter is top notch, the spice?? SPICING! This series is always such a good time and I love how we get to see characters from the previous series and everyone rallies around the MC’s. Making the whole found family aspect of the story feel that much more real. 🖤
Thank you so much to M.J. Fields for the opportunity to ARC red Lo and Kolby’s story 🖤
🏈Football Romance ❄️Coach’s Daughter 🏈Forbidden ❄️Secrets 🏈Only One Night ❄️Tortured MMC 🏈Feisty FMC ❄️Grumpy x Sunshine 🏈Found Family ❄️Forced Proximity 🏈Enemies to Lovers ❄️Still Legally Married 🏈Small Town ❄️Dual POV 🏈HEA ❄️Feisty Bar Owner 🏈Broody NFL Star
MJ FIELDS When I read a book by MJ Fields I am usually always invested in it! Kolby and Lauren were meant to happen and I was so happy for them. He came off as this gorgeous and broody football player and he has always wanted Lo! Lo was also attracted to him and one snowy night in Blue Valley they give in to their attraction. And I just loved how they fall so hard for each other it’s so beautiful! This is another beautiful and wonderful must read!
I absolutely can’t get enough of Kolby and Lo. This whole series and characters are absolutely unforgettable. Kolby wanted one thing and that’s to play football. Dreams come true and now he wants someone who might be off limits. Another amazing read that I couldn’t get enough of.
This is a great addition to this series and I could not get enough of Kolby and Lo!
Kolby is a man of many secrets and regrets that hang heavy upon him. He was drafted to the Knights after the draft and has worked hard to prove himself to the dismay of his wife - a wife that he married during the pandemic as a means to not be lonely and have to deal with his demons from the past. Since he did not make it on a team that his wife felt worthy of they separated and she has been bleeding him dry since. However, since his first day with the Knights, he has had a pull to Lo but has not acted upon it.
Lo, has had a thing for the grumpy and distant Kolby since the first day she saw him. She has spent a lot of time guarding her feelings for Kolby since he is married. She gets a lot of ridicule from her peer group for still being a virgin while she waits for the right man to gift it to. She is close with her family and has a care taker role among them.
Circumstances within the Knights organization throw Kolby and Lo together as they have to increase security for the team and organization's family. Lo opens her home to Kolby and one of his teammates much to her displeasure since she values her space as her own. When forced together the pair can not resist their pull to each other any longer and give in to what starts out as physical and turns into much more.
I enjoyed this book from the start and the return of the characters from the previous books in the series as well as the rest of the Blue Valley related books. These characters were well written and at times relatable. Kolby was damaged by his past and his circumstances that he placed himself in as a means to run from his past and watching him move past it was moving.
I have enjoyed this book as well as the other books of this series and I look forward to more of this series in the future.
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.
It's Kolby and Lo time! I have patiently waited for their story, and let me tell you it didn't disappoint! But then again, I know I'm going to love what MJ gives me, as every single one of her books have ben favorites. This was a fantastic addition to the series, and I couldn’t get enough of Kolby and Lo!
Kolby is a man emotionally buried in secrets and regrets. Drafted to the Knights after the main draft, he’s worked hard to prove himself—much to the dismay of his wife. Their marriage, born out of loneliness during the pandemic, is now strained and one-sided. His in-laws just aren't the people he thought and they were. His wife, disappointed he didn’t make a more prestigious team, left him and has been draining him emotionally and financially since. Despite that, Kolby has always felt a pull toward Lo from the moment they met—but he never acted on it.
Lo has had feelings for Kolby from day one. She’s kept her distance, while also enduring judgment from her peers for remaining a virgin, waiting for the right person. She’s nurturing and close with her family, often taking on a caretaker role. When increased security measures force Kolby and Lo to live under the same roof, the tension between them finally boils over. What begins as a physical connection quickly evolves into something much deeper.
I loved seeing characters from previous books return and appreciated how naturally they were woven into the story. Kolby’s journey, as he is coming to terms with his past and allowing himself to heal was so emotional. Lo’s strength and compassion made her a perfect counterpart to his guarded nature.
This story was emotional, steamy and heartfelt in all the right ways. I’ve enjoyed every book in this series and can’t wait to see what comes next in the Blue Valley world!
Play Maker is another emotional and electric installment in MJ Fields’ captivating series, and it does not disappoint. From the very first pages, the tension between Kolby and Lauren crackles—these two are like oil and water. They don’t mix easily, even though the pull between them is undeniable. Their initial clashes only make their eventual connection that much more powerful and satisfying.
What stands out most is how Kolby and Lauren show, almost immediately, that they’re willing to fight for each other. Their journey is not just about romance but about resilience, commitment, and trust. Surrounding them is a cast of characters who stand together as more than just a team—they are a family. The bond they share is something we all hope for in our own lives, filled with loyalty, love, and unshakeable support.
MJ Fields delivers a beautiful mix of heartfelt emotion and sizzling chemistry. There were definitely a few tears, plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, and yes—some very hot scenes that raised the temperature to scorching. Whew.
Play Maker is another standout story in a series that continues to deliver. I loved every second of it and can’t wait to dive into the next one.
We're back in Blue Valley—where football dreams never die—and this time, it's Kolby Grimes's turn to take the spotlight. After everything he's been through, Kolby remains not just resilient, but downright extraordinary. Drafted by the New York Knights, he's finally on the cusp of his NFL dream, but his focus is quickly tested by the magnetic and fiercely off-limits Lo Brooks—daughter of the team's owners. One unexpected snowstorm throws them together, and suddenly, sparks are flying in more ways than one. When a team lockdown makes them reluctant roommates, things heat up fast, blending tension, chemistry, and heart in the best possible way. I absolutely adore this legacy family. Watching the second generation find their happily-ever-afters has been an emotional, thrilling ride. This latest installment is another can't-miss entry in an already unforgettable sports romance series.
Kolby Grimes & Lauren Brooks have been circling one another for a long time, she’s all about the lists and making everyone else happy but she definitely has her sassy side and she doesn’t let Kolby off the hook. Kolby has his secrets and his reasons for the way he is but he can’t keep up this way forever and when he realizes that not going after what you want just makes things worse he takes that leap and shows Lauren just a peek of who he really is and hopes she can see past his past and give him a chance. This couple definitely will have to overcome some hurdles but the trust she has in him and knowing he can be the man he’s meant to be with her have them both reaching for the end zone and scoring a love story that will bring them a HEA.
I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy of Play Maker . This story is a delightful romance with all the feels . It's heartwarming , emotional and all out sensational . I love the mix with loved characters from previous stories . This is like reuniting with old friends and new ones . I enjoyed it from page one to the last page . Kolby Grimes has a dark past he's tried to leave behind fearing it may come out and ruin his new life he's building but Lo Brookes has secretly had a thing for Kolby since he first started playing for her family's team New York Knights . The two have danced around each other for some time . Kolby is tired of holding back . I couldn't put this story down . I highly recommend taking the time to read .
4.5 Stars A book by MJ Fields is never a disappointment. This book like many others is so good! I had a hard time putting this one down. Loved how many OGs pop in this book to my delight. Love when worlds collide or crossover. Lo and Kolby are fantastic characters. The emotions they pulled out of me. Man Kolby's backstory will hit you right in the heart. I'm so glad that Skinner is next because when him and Kolby become roommates with Lo for a bit I fell for that man. Love the bromance feel you get with the team because they are like family and the ownership proves that. Kolby may not have wanted to be here, but he is exactly where he is meant to be. The last few chapters total swoon fest in my opinion. All the feels! Another winner by MJ Fields.
This enemies to lovers, forced proximity, sports romance is a fast paced, easy to read story.
Kolby is cocky, brooding, and completely closed off. He plays football for the New York Knights, which Lauren’s family is involved with. Her dad is the coach so she’s off limits to him.
The team is put on lockdown which causes them both to be forced into close quarters and they give way to their feelings. Initially just to get out out of their systems. As truths come to the surface, feelings are revealed.
I enjoyed the way she supported him once his back story was revealed but overall this fast paced story was too fast paced for me. It’s a good read but not my favourite.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Ok so this one took me a minute to really sink my teeth into it… I love this author I love how she connects soooo many series and sooo many family members… it makes my heart happy to get updates on them… Honestly it takes a bit to really get into Kolby’s head …. But at the same time I love that once he decided to tell Lo he told her everything, there were no secrets… he laid his soul bare to her and she never looked back, never judged him, she simply loved him through it… Lo reminds me a lot of my daughter honestly… and I absolutely adored her… I’m excited to see more of them in future books in this series ….
4 Star Review Play Maker (The New York Knights Players Club #3) by M. J. Fields
A good addition to The New York Knights Players Club series and is Lo and Kolby Grimes story.
They know that they are off limits to one another and yet there is something that sizzles between them.
Once they cross the line, all bets are off. It was supposed to be one night, to get whatever was between them out of their systems but we all know it doesn’t always work that way.
What follows is an entertaining, well written story with characters you cannot help but fall for.
Kolby Grimes has always held on to his dreams of playing football, fueled by his resilience and passion for the game. He can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, the daughter of the owners, Lo Brooks, has always been off-limits to him—until a snowstorm changes everything. Could one unforgettable night together mark the beginning of something more?
The characters in this book were truly wonderful, making it a joy to read. Reconnecting with some familiar faces from Blue Valley brought back pleasant memories for me. MJ Fields has done an amazing job with the writing.
We're back again in the land of the New York Knights. This time, we get to watch the pull and push of Kolby Grimes and Lauren Brooks.
Kolby 's vibe is dark and says approach with care. You may get burned, but we soon realise he has so much past baggage weighing him down Lauren loves nothing more than to push Kolby's boundaries, and what should be one night to scratch that itch turns into so much more.
Watching these two fall is just beautiful, and we get to see so many of our favourite characters
ARC Review for Play Maker book 3 of The New York Knights Players Club.
This is Kolby and Laurens book.
Lauren is Ryan and Jades daughter. Kolby is a player for the New York Knights. Kolby has has a hard childhood and has struggled believing he is worth more then his past. Lauren shows him he is.
I can not get enough of these characters and I can not wait for the next book to come out. I absolutely love that these are the kids of the original characters from Blue Valley.
I have loved every Blue Valley book you have written. The characters are so real & believable. Blending so many of the OG crew made this story so much more fulfilling. I literally could envision all of those men walking onto the field for that scrimmage & Jade & the girls making the rules. The tortured MMC & snarky MFC are so loveable. I really enjoyed my visit back to Blue Valley! Can’t wait to read more of Skinner!
This is such a brilliant addition to the series. There has been an spark between Kolby and Lo ever since he joined the New York Knights but he kept his distance. That is until they were sleeping under the same roof. They are perfect together but he can't commit to her until his unfinished business is sorted. Can they get their hea or will his past get between them. A must read with a perfect ending. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Kolby & Lo...I LOVE THEM! She's a make a list gal. He's got lots of secrets. They have had their sights on one another for a long time... is now the right time? Everyone else saw the looks and just knew. The Blue Valley family is here for all those feels. Lots of emotions in this story. I don't want to say too much about this but the Scrimmage is THE BEST! One of my very favorite scenes! :) Another great story and such a great addition to this series.
I really enjoyed this book! This series has just made me felt good! I love the mixture of a devoted fun family and then the relationship between the MMC and FMC.
I’m a sucker for grumpy Vs sunshine, add in a virgin FMC, a fun family and great spice and you have a winner in my book.
I always enjoy books by this author and I will definitely be back for more in the future! I can’t wait for the next one!
Tropes: Football romance Grumpy MMC Virgin FMC Past trauma
Somehow, I started the series with this the 3rd book about Kolby and Lauren. Although it could be read as a standalone, I did feel like I was missing some back story. I will remedy that by reading the rest of the series from the beginning. Kolby and Lauren spent so much time circling each other you just knew when they finally go together it would be amazing. I thought the story moved along and kept my interest.
This was a complete and total touchdown! Kolby and Lo's story brings all the feels and checks all the boxes! Broody HMC with a tragic past and a lot to prove and a headstrong FMC who is not taking no for an answer. Loved it from start to finish! And the big bonus for the Ava moments - still one of my favorite Blue Valley characters!
Would give this ten stars if I could. Read this in two days. Lo is one amazing woman. Kolby is one strong man. He has been through a lot. They both will do what ever is needed for the ones they love. The connection they have is nothing either one of them thought they would have. They complete each other in ways they didn’t realize was possible. A must read.
Lo and Kolby do not disappoint. But then again MJ's Blue Valley characters never disappoint EVER. I have loved this series since the very beginning. I am invested and I highly appreciate the stories that this little town has brought to me over the years. I highly recommend Lo and Kolby and the rest of the Blue Valley clan I will always be a MJ Fields fangirl. 💙
I'm so loving this series each book I read I swear that couples my favorite then she writes another. This story was just amazing. I love the drama and the mystery she's adding to this series. And if course as always won't be a great book without the tears and laughter!
4.5⭐️ Blue Valley and the perfect snow storm brings Kolby Grimes and Lauren ‘Lo’ Brooks together. It’s just meant to be a one time only hook up in the middle of a snow storm when they’re forced to spend the night together. But they’ve been circling each other for a while, and one time only becomes needing a repeat, and it doesn’t take long for this to feel the opposite of casual...
Play Maker is Lo and Kolby Grimes story and it’s book three in The New York Knights Players Club. This is a well written, entertaining story with characters I fell hard and fast for. It was only meant to be one night but once they crossed the line there was no going back. So what happens when Kolby realises there is more to life than playing football…….
This book left me wanting more and more. Lo and Kolby have the type of chemistry you can truly feel. Absolutely LOVED how much Lauren fought to prove to Kolby he is worth it. Loved seeing the Blue Valley Fam. Can’t wait for what is next!
Lo may be my Favorite "girl bossessess" so far! I seriously love Kolby and Lo. Kolby has so much baggage he doesn't want to touch Lo. Poor man just wants the drama to be in his past. Lo know how to go after what she wants and will protect her people!!