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Tight End Comeback
Dexter
I'm known as the rebel, the player who walks a different path and does things my way. Which hasn't always worked out for me in the past, especially when it comes to women. After getting burned in college, I closed myself off and keep the fairer sex at arm’s length.
Until now.
My brother from another mother just got married. During his reception, a woman approached me. She was mysterious, gorgeous, and willing to help fend off the gold digger doing her best to attract my attention.
I didn't want to let her go when the night was coming to an end, but she made it clear it was a one time only deal. She had no intention of getting involved with me or any other man.
On or off the field, I've never been one to walk away from a challenge. And this time is no different. I intend on winning and winning big.
Darcy
My life was not perfect. Not even close to perfect. I was raised in a community that differed from most people. I got away and learned how to survive in this big world, making mistakes I could live with while I did. Eventually, I got my shit together and found a nice peaceful town to raise my kids in.
We were happy. The three of us were fine and making a life worth living. It wasn’t until I tried to save a man from an eager female, did I realize our lives were missing something.
Not him, though. He was too tempting, too different from me. No matter how much I wanted to give in and climb his fine body, that wasn’t who I was anymore. I would ignore him and find me a safe, less tempting man to fill that void.
He’s determined to make my life more difficult while getting in my way. I’m not sure if I want to kill him or kiss him, maybe I can do both.
**Tight End Comeback mentions a community whose sexual practices may be disturbing for some to read about. Reader Discretion is advised.
I'm known as the rebel, the player who walks a different path and does things my way. Which hasn't always worked out for me in the past, especially when it comes to women. After getting burned in college, I closed myself off and keep the fairer sex at arm’s length.
Until now.
My brother from another mother just got married. During his reception, a woman approached me. She was mysterious, gorgeous, and willing to help fend off the gold digger doing her best to attract my attention.
I didn't want to let her go when the night was coming to an end, but she made it clear it was a one time only deal. She had no intention of getting involved with me or any other man.
On or off the field, I've never been one to walk away from a challenge. And this time is no different. I intend on winning and winning big.
Darcy
My life was not perfect. Not even close to perfect. I was raised in a community that differed from most people. I got away and learned how to survive in this big world, making mistakes I could live with while I did. Eventually, I got my shit together and found a nice peaceful town to raise my kids in.
We were happy. The three of us were fine and making a life worth living. It wasn’t until I tried to save a man from an eager female, did I realize our lives were missing something.
Not him, though. He was too tempting, too different from me. No matter how much I wanted to give in and climb his fine body, that wasn’t who I was anymore. I would ignore him and find me a safe, less tempting man to fill that void.
He’s determined to make my life more difficult while getting in my way. I’m not sure if I want to kill him or kiss him, maybe I can do both.
**Tight End Comeback mentions a community whose sexual practices may be disturbing for some to read about. Reader Discretion is advised.
Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2025
34 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
C.R. Riley
32 books98 followersC. R. Riley doesn’t believe in rules when it comes to romance. Her books are bold, emotional, and unapologetically steamy, spanning tropes like enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, secret pasts, and forbidden attraction. What ties them all together? Deep emotional connection, crackling sexual tension, and characters who love like it’s the only thing keeping them alive.
Writing across sub-genres, C. R. thrives in the chaos of big emotions, tough choices, and the kind of love that doesn’t come easy—but always feels earned. Her goal is simple: give readers stories they feel in their chest and remember long after the final page.
Writing across sub-genres, C. R. thrives in the chaos of big emotions, tough choices, and the kind of love that doesn’t come easy—but always feels earned. Her goal is simple: give readers stories they feel in their chest and remember long after the final page.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 31, 2022
Really good
Another great read by this author. Already adding the next one to my TBR list. Definitely recommend this series if you love sappy and moving.
Another great read by this author. Already adding the next one to my TBR list. Definitely recommend this series if you love sappy and moving.
October 15, 2022
I’m not always a fan of insta love but
CR Riley does it to perfection. Dexter is the kind of book boyfriend that stays with you long after the story is over and Darcy has the perfect sass to keep you laughing. Watching Dexter with Darcy's kids just melted my heart. The scene with Zek and Dexter fixing the car ❤❤ These two are a perfect pair. Can’t wait to see what Ms Riley has in store for Ava!
CR Riley does it to perfection. Dexter is the kind of book boyfriend that stays with you long after the story is over and Darcy has the perfect sass to keep you laughing. Watching Dexter with Darcy's kids just melted my heart. The scene with Zek and Dexter fixing the car ❤❤ These two are a perfect pair. Can’t wait to see what Ms Riley has in store for Ava!
September 27, 2021
C.R. Riley really out done herself on this book. Dexter and Darcy their romance was funny and so understanding and strong.
Dexter went to his friends wedding. And all the sudden Darcy took him to the dance and said she was his fake fiancé. Plus helping Dex with other women. That wouldn’t leave him alone. After that dance Dex was determined to go after her. Dexter walk out we’re Darcy was on the phone talking with her kids. After Darcy hang up and spoke with Dex . He couldn’t handle any more and went for the kissing. From their on Dexter wasn’t going to let it go. Know Darcy told it was over and glad to help a friend. Dexter saw Darcy leaving and thinking about the kiss he knew what he wanted. He wanted Darcy to be his really Fiancé not the fake. Not forgetting how it sound his Fiancé. He wouldn’t let it down was determined to go after what he wants.
Darcy couldn’t stop think about Dexter after the wedding. Until next morning her daughters could Dexter DADA. She was shocking see him and fixing her car. Well Darcy was determined not letting it go far. Her children love Dexter and little by little it was hard to push Dexter out of their lives.
Vegas was one of other friends wedding. Dexter was ready to play game with Darcy. He ask her that weekend if she didn’t want anything with him he will let her go. But Darcy had a very deep secret. So she decided to tell Dexter and if he walk away she knew she couldn’t have that relationship. Let just saw what happen in Vegas 🤫.
What thought I was going to say more nope . Got to read this book. C.R. Riley really been a honor enjoying your stories thank you .
Dexter went to his friends wedding. And all the sudden Darcy took him to the dance and said she was his fake fiancé. Plus helping Dex with other women. That wouldn’t leave him alone. After that dance Dex was determined to go after her. Dexter walk out we’re Darcy was on the phone talking with her kids. After Darcy hang up and spoke with Dex . He couldn’t handle any more and went for the kissing. From their on Dexter wasn’t going to let it go. Know Darcy told it was over and glad to help a friend. Dexter saw Darcy leaving and thinking about the kiss he knew what he wanted. He wanted Darcy to be his really Fiancé not the fake. Not forgetting how it sound his Fiancé. He wouldn’t let it down was determined to go after what he wants.
Darcy couldn’t stop think about Dexter after the wedding. Until next morning her daughters could Dexter DADA. She was shocking see him and fixing her car. Well Darcy was determined not letting it go far. Her children love Dexter and little by little it was hard to push Dexter out of their lives.
Vegas was one of other friends wedding. Dexter was ready to play game with Darcy. He ask her that weekend if she didn’t want anything with him he will let her go. But Darcy had a very deep secret. So she decided to tell Dexter and if he walk away she knew she couldn’t have that relationship. Let just saw what happen in Vegas 🤫.
What thought I was going to say more nope . Got to read this book. C.R. Riley really been a honor enjoying your stories thank you .
November 20, 2022
wonderful
I swear I’m never disappointed with this authors men! I’m officially obsessed with Dexter. A tight end Football player who has lost all hope of ever finding his true love until his stepbrothers wedding night when a spunky Darcy, a single mom of 2, pretends to be his fiancé to ward off the temptresses wanting only his money catching Dexters attention. one thing dexter is known for is getting exactly what he wants no matter the cost.
Cr had me at daddy. This book is wholesome and spicy thoughtful and amazing all wrapped up into one! I highly recommend this book and all of her men!
I swear I’m never disappointed with this authors men! I’m officially obsessed with Dexter. A tight end Football player who has lost all hope of ever finding his true love until his stepbrothers wedding night when a spunky Darcy, a single mom of 2, pretends to be his fiancé to ward off the temptresses wanting only his money catching Dexters attention. one thing dexter is known for is getting exactly what he wants no matter the cost.
Cr had me at daddy. This book is wholesome and spicy thoughtful and amazing all wrapped up into one! I highly recommend this book and all of her men!
August 30, 2020
Beautiful story
I loved this story because it was all about escaping the past and being determined to make a better future. Seeing faults but rather than judging them, enabling change and worthiness through love and empathy. D'Arcy has a dark past, one she wants to escape but one that's also moulded who she is. Dexter sees her for who she is and what she wants to be and with his devotion he makes it possible for them to achieve the life she always needed. Loved Dexter's character he's so compassionate and devoted, right from the start. He's not easily put off and is eager to let those around him know who really matters.
I loved this story because it was all about escaping the past and being determined to make a better future. Seeing faults but rather than judging them, enabling change and worthiness through love and empathy. D'Arcy has a dark past, one she wants to escape but one that's also moulded who she is. Dexter sees her for who she is and what she wants to be and with his devotion he makes it possible for them to achieve the life she always needed. Loved Dexter's character he's so compassionate and devoted, right from the start. He's not easily put off and is eager to let those around him know who really matters.
September 19, 2021
C.R. Riley has done it yet again. I officially have a new favorite Author. I love the way she writes the hard issues but adds just the right amount of humor to keep it from getting too deep. I was once again pulled in from the beginning and was intrigued with the twists and turns this book take until the end. I honestly didn't want it to end.
Darcy works to overcome her past so that she can have a better future than she ever dreamed of. Dexter is the ultimate book boyfriend. He is everything you can imagine. What is up with the Mathew's brothers? They are just perfectly imperfect and will steal your heart without you realizing it. This series is a definite must read.
Darcy works to overcome her past so that she can have a better future than she ever dreamed of. Dexter is the ultimate book boyfriend. He is everything you can imagine. What is up with the Mathew's brothers? They are just perfectly imperfect and will steal your heart without you realizing it. This series is a definite must read.
January 1, 2024
Okay I have read a few books by C.R Riley now and Fearless Warrior had to have been my favourite. I liked Tight End Comeback but I didn’t LOVE it. I’m not a fan of Insta- love and this was pretty insta-love. I loved Darcy and how charismatic she was. Also she was so unnecessarily funny and I loved it. She was very outgoing and couldn’t give two craps but was also very caring and loving. Dexter was really all in and didn’t hold back. My favourite though was Zeb. He was the man of the family for a while and was forced to be pretty mature and his first interaction with Dexter really set me off
November 18, 2021
I was very intrigued by Dexter in the first book and had to continue on to find out more about him and he didn’t disappoint me! The confidence, charisma, charm, and sexy everything had me reading until I couldn’t keep my eyes open. Darcy was the perfect challenge for him and I give props to the author who took on a topic I haven’t seen much of in this genre and did it with such class!! You’ll have to read it to find out what I’m talking about-lol.
October 21, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I seriously loved Dexter and Darcy's story! Personally, I felt this story was better than Corey & Tabitha's. Though both were great and I loved getting caught up with the two of them and the rest of the Matthew's clan. C R Riley Author always does a great job bringing her characters to life and making you fall in love with them.
Darcy is a stubborn, strong-willed woman who hopes to do her best for her kids. When she sees Dexter in need of some help, she does her best to help save him. She doesn't know that she would become 'his' and he wouldn't stop until he proved she belonged to him. With an unpleasant past before moving to Bakersfield, she tries to use this to chase him off. She tries everything to push him away because she will never deserve a Matthews in her mind. Can she work through her past before she pushes Dexter away for good?
Being the 'rebel' Matthews, Dexter does his own thing. So when he sets his sights on Darcy, he decides he wants her to be his for good. Dexter won't stop until he has proved to Darcy she is worthy of him and so much more. In true Matthew's fashion, Dexter decides her kids are his and would do whatever he needs to do for them. Dexter's the one Matthew's boy with a past so he sets out to prove to Darcy that isn't who he is. "You're past is just that." -Dexter, pg. 145
Can Dexter live with Darcy's past & can Darcy see Dexter isn't like all other men?
*some triggers, please look into these before reading
I seriously loved Dexter and Darcy's story! Personally, I felt this story was better than Corey & Tabitha's. Though both were great and I loved getting caught up with the two of them and the rest of the Matthew's clan. C R Riley Author always does a great job bringing her characters to life and making you fall in love with them.
Darcy is a stubborn, strong-willed woman who hopes to do her best for her kids. When she sees Dexter in need of some help, she does her best to help save him. She doesn't know that she would become 'his' and he wouldn't stop until he proved she belonged to him. With an unpleasant past before moving to Bakersfield, she tries to use this to chase him off. She tries everything to push him away because she will never deserve a Matthews in her mind. Can she work through her past before she pushes Dexter away for good?
Being the 'rebel' Matthews, Dexter does his own thing. So when he sets his sights on Darcy, he decides he wants her to be his for good. Dexter won't stop until he has proved to Darcy she is worthy of him and so much more. In true Matthew's fashion, Dexter decides her kids are his and would do whatever he needs to do for them. Dexter's the one Matthew's boy with a past so he sets out to prove to Darcy that isn't who he is. "You're past is just that." -Dexter, pg. 145
Can Dexter live with Darcy's past & can Darcy see Dexter isn't like all other men?
*some triggers, please look into these before reading
October 29, 2022
I love sports romance and Ms. Riley gives us an instant romance that is emotional but also sweet and enjoyable to read. Tight End Comeback is Dexter and Darcy's story and it is one that is very different than any other book I have read. Dexter is a pro football player who when he wants something nothing will stop him. He is a rebel but he is one that you put at the top of your book-boyfriend list. When a stranger, Darcy, walks up to him at a friend's wedding and pretends to be his fiance, he kinda likes the sound of it and is determined to make her just that. Darcy is a single mother of two adorable children, Zeb and Naomi, and her life was not that of a normal child/teenager. Her past is one that will have you holding your breath and breaking your heart but at the same time making you angry. Dex pushes all her buttons but Darcy is a feisty, very independent woman who had no problem telling it like it is and putting anyone in their place. However when Dex wins her kids over how can she fight the pull that she feels?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although it did pull on my heartstrings in regard to what Darcy had t endure throughout her life, it also had me smiling at the determination that Dex showed to prove that he truly loved Darcy. If you are looking for a different love story that is a fabulous read then I suggest adding Tigh End Comeback to your TBR list.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although it did pull on my heartstrings in regard to what Darcy had t endure throughout her life, it also had me smiling at the determination that Dex showed to prove that he truly loved Darcy. If you are looking for a different love story that is a fabulous read then I suggest adding Tigh End Comeback to your TBR list.
October 1, 2022
CR Riley writes the best characters - they give you all the feels, emotions and laughs.
Darcy has a past that brings her shame and she does her best to keep it hidden. She has two beautiful children that are her life and she is determined to make their childhood better than hers.
Dexter is a football player that has sworn off love due to his past …he still has fun but no relationships! When he least expects it, Darcy comes to his rescue and a wonderful friendship begins.
Darcy and Dexter are so fun, entertaining and their banter is off the charts. I love the give and take between these two. Their are tough conversations they need to have but they are fearful of what may happen. Darcy really struggles with trust but Dexter is a completely different man around her and wants nothing but to protect her and the kids. Speaking of kids - they will steal your heart.
C.R. Is a master at getting all the emotions going while you are reading her words. This is a fantastic book and great series - Love of the Game.
Darcy has a past that brings her shame and she does her best to keep it hidden. She has two beautiful children that are her life and she is determined to make their childhood better than hers.
Dexter is a football player that has sworn off love due to his past …he still has fun but no relationships! When he least expects it, Darcy comes to his rescue and a wonderful friendship begins.
Darcy and Dexter are so fun, entertaining and their banter is off the charts. I love the give and take between these two. Their are tough conversations they need to have but they are fearful of what may happen. Darcy really struggles with trust but Dexter is a completely different man around her and wants nothing but to protect her and the kids. Speaking of kids - they will steal your heart.
C.R. Is a master at getting all the emotions going while you are reading her words. This is a fantastic book and great series - Love of the Game.
October 24, 2022
Second book in the series and I’m in love with them!!!
If I thought Corey was a ‘sweetheart’ Dex is a ‘cinnamon’!! 🤣 They probably won’t like my endearments for them but seriously, you won’t be able to resist them. And I’m thinking that would be the case with the rest of the Matthews siblings.
Dex is considered the ’bad boy’ of the clan, but seriously….. he’s far from it!!!!
Darcy, since the moment I saw her interactions with the girls on Sneaky Quarterback, book 1, I knew I already like her. Like the rest of the group I was intrigued by her!!!
Let me tell you….. she’s a QUEEN!!!!!
The banter between them was just enough for my poor heart to not be aching so much!!!
And we definitely need a novella for Zeb!!
I think there should be poll about it and see if the author can make it happen!
I’ll be starting Ava’s story, Scoring the Birdie, next and can’t wait for Flint and Reid’s! Which by the way, I’m super intrigued of Reid’s story..
If I thought Corey was a ‘sweetheart’ Dex is a ‘cinnamon’!! 🤣 They probably won’t like my endearments for them but seriously, you won’t be able to resist them. And I’m thinking that would be the case with the rest of the Matthews siblings.
Dex is considered the ’bad boy’ of the clan, but seriously….. he’s far from it!!!!
Darcy, since the moment I saw her interactions with the girls on Sneaky Quarterback, book 1, I knew I already like her. Like the rest of the group I was intrigued by her!!!
Let me tell you….. she’s a QUEEN!!!!!
The banter between them was just enough for my poor heart to not be aching so much!!!
And we definitely need a novella for Zeb!!
I think there should be poll about it and see if the author can make it happen!
I’ll be starting Ava’s story, Scoring the Birdie, next and can’t wait for Flint and Reid’s! Which by the way, I’m super intrigued of Reid’s story..
October 6, 2022
Dexter is a football-playing All American boy. While he has high morals and is an upstanding man, he knows how to push the boundaries. That's what makes it all the more entertaining when he meets no-nonsense single mom Darcy.
Darcy lived a less-than-normal life before she met Dexter. She used that experience to shape the lives for her children that she wished she had. She's independent, strong, and proven that she is exactly the mom her children need. That's why she fought Dexter so hard when he wanted to come into their lives.
Their story is witty, engaging, and emotional. I loved following them as they showed each other what it means to love and have a family with having vastly different experiences.
Darcy lived a less-than-normal life before she met Dexter. She used that experience to shape the lives for her children that she wished she had. She's independent, strong, and proven that she is exactly the mom her children need. That's why she fought Dexter so hard when he wanted to come into their lives.
Their story is witty, engaging, and emotional. I loved following them as they showed each other what it means to love and have a family with having vastly different experiences.
April 18, 2023
I loved this slightly more rough (?) start for the FMC (Naomi) to catch the eye of Dexter Maxwell. I thought the book was original, handled some tough themes with the care you would expect from CR Riley.
I loved his pretty much love at first sight, opposing her more logical side, that also made this Football star prove his love was real…and on her side, that he was more than a meal ticket.
I *loved* the attitudes and interactions with the kids! OMG! I wanted to reach into the book and spoil them.
From a girl who wasn’t normally a “sports” reader, this is a *MUST READ* for you.
Note: read her trigger warnings
I loved his pretty much love at first sight, opposing her more logical side, that also made this Football star prove his love was real…and on her side, that he was more than a meal ticket.
I *loved* the attitudes and interactions with the kids! OMG! I wanted to reach into the book and spoil them.
From a girl who wasn’t normally a “sports” reader, this is a *MUST READ* for you.
Note: read her trigger warnings
October 9, 2022
Dexter and Darcy story is a beautiful love story. Dexter love for Darcy is instant but she is afraid to love at first because of her past. To watch their love grow and their family too is incredible. Their story will make you laugh, cry, and have you fall in love with them. The Matthew family will have each other back through everything. C. R. Riley couldn’t have give a more perfect woman for Dexter than Darcy. I highly recommend Tight End Comeback. I’m sure you will love Dexter as much as I do.
October 28, 2022
First, I'm not a big football girl. But, I love a #footballromance!! And #TightEndComeback by @c.r.rileyauthor is so much more than just a football story! The people behind the game, their relationships, and how they make every moment feel real, sometimes raw, are everything!!
September 29, 2022
Loved the build up with this one. The meet cute was great! It had me laughing and melting all at once. The chase for Dexter was fun to read. Darcy’s strong character was refreshing to see. Between her sass, humor and independence, she’s one of my favorite characters. My only dislike in this book was that it felt like it dragged on. A good chunk towards the end, I could’ve done without. Overall, though great story in the tales of the Matthews family.
October 9, 2022
There was so much I loved about this book. Dexter and his persistence and the way Darcy couldn't seem to get rid it him in the beginning had me laughing out loud. Watching them come together and navigate so much together was also another aspect I enjoyed. Overall I greatly enjoyed this read and look forward to reading more from this author.
October 16, 2021
Dexter Matthews is my favorite book boyfriend written by C.R. Riley! He gives you everything you want and more! I love how Darcy is spunky and not afraid put this man in his place. Their chemistry is off the charts. Tight End Comeback is a must read!
July 15, 2024
Love of the game
I got more chuckles out of this book than I have in a very long time!!!! Shared with spouse!!!! Love
I got more chuckles out of this book than I have in a very long time!!!! Shared with spouse!!!! Love
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews