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Balance of Power #3
The Games We Play
I thought I’d never see her again. Ten years ago, we spent two weeks together. Fourteen inseparable days, just for her to disappear like she never existed.
Now she’s here, in the last place I expected, sneaking around the lifestyle club where I run security. But before I can confront her to demand answers, she runs.
So what would any military trained, ex-NavySEAL do when he’s determined to get what he wants?
Anything. Including buying the house next door to her.
Now I watch her as she does yoga practically naked in her backyard and goes on dates with other men, sending my controlled existence into a complete tailspin.
I’m determined to find out what happened, but she’s insistent on ignoring our past and keeping secrets from me that I can’t seem to uncover.
Unfortunately for her, I’m patient. And even though she’s turning my simple structured life upside down, I’ll stop at nothing to get what I want.
And what I want is her.
**********
The Games We Play is book 3 (Seamus’ book) in the interconnected standalone Balance of Power series. A grumpy/sunshine, second chance romance, told in a past/present timeline with Dual POVs. It will make you smile and kick your feet with giddiness, but still brings all the open door spice you can expect from a Berlin Wick book.
Please check TW’s on the authors website before reading.
Now she’s here, in the last place I expected, sneaking around the lifestyle club where I run security. But before I can confront her to demand answers, she runs.
So what would any military trained, ex-NavySEAL do when he’s determined to get what he wants?
Anything. Including buying the house next door to her.
Now I watch her as she does yoga practically naked in her backyard and goes on dates with other men, sending my controlled existence into a complete tailspin.
I’m determined to find out what happened, but she’s insistent on ignoring our past and keeping secrets from me that I can’t seem to uncover.
Unfortunately for her, I’m patient. And even though she’s turning my simple structured life upside down, I’ll stop at nothing to get what I want.
And what I want is her.
**********
The Games We Play is book 3 (Seamus’ book) in the interconnected standalone Balance of Power series. A grumpy/sunshine, second chance romance, told in a past/present timeline with Dual POVs. It will make you smile and kick your feet with giddiness, but still brings all the open door spice you can expect from a Berlin Wick book.
Please check TW’s on the authors website before reading.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2025
105 people are currently reading
1775 people want to read
About the author
Berlin Wick
5 books194 followersBerlin was raised in a tiny town in North Idaho who migrated to the Bay Area, California where she still resides with her husband and two boys. Her bucket list items include skydiving, attending the Oscars, becoming a New York Times Best Selling author, and cruising the world for retirement. She loves writing strong females and powerful alpha males. Reading ANY and ALL kinds of romance novels is her jam and she loves engaging with the booksta community. You can find her most active on instagram!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
June 5, 2025
The Games We Play by Berlin Wick
4,5/5⭐
3/5🌶️
I've been wanting to read this author's work for a while, and it lived up to my expectations. The plot and characters are fantastic, but what resonated with me was the deep connection between the main characters, Seamus and Mimi. They meet at a summer camp and click right away, spending two unforgettable weeks together. Their bond becomes so special, but then everything changes one night, and they lose touch for ten long years—until fate brings them back together!
Seamus is now an ex-Navy SEAL and works as a security at a club. For years, he’s searched for Mimi without any luck. But one night, he finally spots her at the club! Determined to reconnect, he even buys a house next door to her. I love his dedication; he knows this is his chance to be in her life, and he’s ready to do whatever it takes!
Mimi is such a delightful character! As a yoga instructor, she radiates positivity, but she has a tough past that still affects her. When she finally opened up about it, my heart broke for her. I wish I could give her a big hug! Thankfully, Seamus is there to protect and love her. I admired how she faced her challenges head-on and grew stronger throughout the story. Her courage is truly inspiring!
Seeing Seamus and Mimi get their happily ever after was so satisfying! It was heartwarming to watch Mimi slowly heal with Seamus by her side. He makes her feel safe and secure, and she learns to trust him completely. It’s beautiful how he becomes her rock, encouraging and cherishing her every step of the way. I had such a great time reading this book, and now I'm excited to explore the books of the side characters too.
4,5/5⭐
3/5🌶️
I've been wanting to read this author's work for a while, and it lived up to my expectations. The plot and characters are fantastic, but what resonated with me was the deep connection between the main characters, Seamus and Mimi. They meet at a summer camp and click right away, spending two unforgettable weeks together. Their bond becomes so special, but then everything changes one night, and they lose touch for ten long years—until fate brings them back together!
Seamus is now an ex-Navy SEAL and works as a security at a club. For years, he’s searched for Mimi without any luck. But one night, he finally spots her at the club! Determined to reconnect, he even buys a house next door to her. I love his dedication; he knows this is his chance to be in her life, and he’s ready to do whatever it takes!
Mimi is such a delightful character! As a yoga instructor, she radiates positivity, but she has a tough past that still affects her. When she finally opened up about it, my heart broke for her. I wish I could give her a big hug! Thankfully, Seamus is there to protect and love her. I admired how she faced her challenges head-on and grew stronger throughout the story. Her courage is truly inspiring!
Seeing Seamus and Mimi get their happily ever after was so satisfying! It was heartwarming to watch Mimi slowly heal with Seamus by her side. He makes her feel safe and secure, and she learns to trust him completely. It’s beautiful how he becomes her rock, encouraging and cherishing her every step of the way. I had such a great time reading this book, and now I'm excited to explore the books of the side characters too.
June 3, 2025
ARC REVIEW
RELEASES 6/5
Tropes-
Grumpy x sunshine
Second chance
Forced proximity
Touch her and ☠️
Dual Timeline
Dual POV
Check your triggers before diving in! ⚠️ The Author was so kind to give you a warning ahead of time before a very triggering chapter, and you are able to skip through this chapter without it taking away from the story.
"Seamus Matthews only had two weeks of my twenty-eight years, and still, I’ve loved him my whole life."
✨️ Thank you to Berlin and Luna Literary for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Wow! I absolutely loved this book! I read it in one sitting. Seamus is one of my new favorites for sure 😍. I'm not usually the biggest fan of dual timelines, but Berlin wrote this so well. This story was so heart-wrenching. I don't want to spoil any of the story. Just know that if you love a second chance romance with a little suspense thrown in, I'd definitely recommend this book! It was an easy 5 ⭐️ read for me!
RELEASES 6/5
Tropes-
Grumpy x sunshine
Second chance
Forced proximity
Touch her and ☠️
Dual Timeline
Dual POV
Check your triggers before diving in! ⚠️ The Author was so kind to give you a warning ahead of time before a very triggering chapter, and you are able to skip through this chapter without it taking away from the story.
"Seamus Matthews only had two weeks of my twenty-eight years, and still, I’ve loved him my whole life."
✨️ Thank you to Berlin and Luna Literary for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Wow! I absolutely loved this book! I read it in one sitting. Seamus is one of my new favorites for sure 😍. I'm not usually the biggest fan of dual timelines, but Berlin wrote this so well. This story was so heart-wrenching. I don't want to spoil any of the story. Just know that if you love a second chance romance with a little suspense thrown in, I'd definitely recommend this book! It was an easy 5 ⭐️ read for me!
August 28, 2025
“𝓘𝓽’𝓼 𝓸𝓯𝓯𝓲𝓬𝓲𝓪𝓵. 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓽𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻𝓮𝓭. 𝓢𝓮𝓪𝓶𝓾𝓼 𝓜𝓪𝓽𝓽𝓱𝓮𝔀’𝓼 𝓲𝓼 𝓶𝔂 𝓽𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻.”
This was my first time reading Berlin Wick and I’m just wondering where this author has been hiding because WHOLY AMAZEBALLS this book was GOOD!!! I’m firm on not loving books with military affiliation. Stuff from my past keeps me from truly enjoying any MMC involved in that profession but Berlin wrote this man SO WELL that it didn’t even phase me.
Seamus and Mimi’s story starts when they are both teenagers at summer camp. Two weeks changed their lives forever as they fall in love and Mimi loses her virginity to Seamus…but right after that, he disappears and Mimi is left heart broken and hates him for just leaving her. But there’s a tragic reason behind his departure and it’s truly heart wrenching.
Ten years later they run into each other at a $€x club. The minute Seamus sees Mimi he’s determined to win back the woman he’s been searching for the last ten years. Mimi on the other hand is not interested in opening up old wounds. Her hate for him still strong… or so she likes to tell herself.
Mimi isn’t the same girl from ten years ago. She’s gone through unspeakable trauma and pain. And seeing her trying to muscle through the past truly made my heart ache for her. Those of you reviewing this book saying , I don’t buy her going through her trauma then becoming a naked yoga teacher or being sexually inexperienced and shy given her profession…shut…up. You clearly have NEVER been through anything close to what she has. People process trauma like hers in different ways. It’s not uncommon for SA survivors or abuse survivors to work in fields where they are in control of their bodies and even S£mex work. It’s not about the act it’s about finally having control over themselves and who and what has access to them. Working in those fields doesn’t mean you can’t be shy and reserved in your personal life. Be so for real. Sorry. I just needed to say that because some of the people coming after the author and Mimi for her choices really got under my skin.
Without giving too much away, Seamus is determined to get his girl back and he does. Together they help heal each other, emotionally and mentally. They connect in a way that feels like no time has passed.
Seamus is there to help Mimi work through her trauma and help her get revenge and closure on her past. Literal touch her and 💀 vibes to the max. He doesn’t do slow. He’s all in from the jump. Flowers? Candy? Nope. He buys the house next to hers and is her personal guard dog. Listen. This man had me BARKING!
It’s not all physical, this book dives deep into the emotional turmoil of both characters and their journey to healing. It’s messy, heart breaking, painful but healing all at the same time. Their happy ending was a long time coming and so well deserved. 🩷
Thank you so much to Berlin Wick and Luna Literary for the absolute amazing opportunity to ARC read this book 🩷
⚓️Second Chance Romance
🧘🏻♀️Touch Her and 💀
⚓️Broken Heroine
🧘🏻♀️Possessive Hero
⚓️Childhood Lovers to Enemies to Neighbours to Lovers Again
🧘🏻♀️Grumpy x Sunshine
⚓️Ex Navy Seal MMC
🧘🏻♀️Spicy Yoga/Tantric Teacher FMC
⚓️Forced Proximity
🧘🏻♀️Angst/Suspense
⚓️Dual Timeline
🧘🏻♀️He 💦in his 👖
⚓️Hand Necklaces for Both
🧘🏻♀️Voyeurism
⚓️Traumatic Past for Both
🧘🏻♀️It’s Always Been You
⚓️Dual POV
🧘🏻♀️HEA
This was my first time reading Berlin Wick and I’m just wondering where this author has been hiding because WHOLY AMAZEBALLS this book was GOOD!!! I’m firm on not loving books with military affiliation. Stuff from my past keeps me from truly enjoying any MMC involved in that profession but Berlin wrote this man SO WELL that it didn’t even phase me.
Seamus and Mimi’s story starts when they are both teenagers at summer camp. Two weeks changed their lives forever as they fall in love and Mimi loses her virginity to Seamus…but right after that, he disappears and Mimi is left heart broken and hates him for just leaving her. But there’s a tragic reason behind his departure and it’s truly heart wrenching.
Ten years later they run into each other at a $€x club. The minute Seamus sees Mimi he’s determined to win back the woman he’s been searching for the last ten years. Mimi on the other hand is not interested in opening up old wounds. Her hate for him still strong… or so she likes to tell herself.
Mimi isn’t the same girl from ten years ago. She’s gone through unspeakable trauma and pain. And seeing her trying to muscle through the past truly made my heart ache for her. Those of you reviewing this book saying , I don’t buy her going through her trauma then becoming a naked yoga teacher or being sexually inexperienced and shy given her profession…shut…up. You clearly have NEVER been through anything close to what she has. People process trauma like hers in different ways. It’s not uncommon for SA survivors or abuse survivors to work in fields where they are in control of their bodies and even S£mex work. It’s not about the act it’s about finally having control over themselves and who and what has access to them. Working in those fields doesn’t mean you can’t be shy and reserved in your personal life. Be so for real. Sorry. I just needed to say that because some of the people coming after the author and Mimi for her choices really got under my skin.
Without giving too much away, Seamus is determined to get his girl back and he does. Together they help heal each other, emotionally and mentally. They connect in a way that feels like no time has passed.
Seamus is there to help Mimi work through her trauma and help her get revenge and closure on her past. Literal touch her and 💀 vibes to the max. He doesn’t do slow. He’s all in from the jump. Flowers? Candy? Nope. He buys the house next to hers and is her personal guard dog. Listen. This man had me BARKING!
It’s not all physical, this book dives deep into the emotional turmoil of both characters and their journey to healing. It’s messy, heart breaking, painful but healing all at the same time. Their happy ending was a long time coming and so well deserved. 🩷
Thank you so much to Berlin Wick and Luna Literary for the absolute amazing opportunity to ARC read this book 🩷
⚓️Second Chance Romance
🧘🏻♀️Touch Her and 💀
⚓️Broken Heroine
🧘🏻♀️Possessive Hero
⚓️Childhood Lovers to Enemies to Neighbours to Lovers Again
🧘🏻♀️Grumpy x Sunshine
⚓️Ex Navy Seal MMC
🧘🏻♀️Spicy Yoga/Tantric Teacher FMC
⚓️Forced Proximity
🧘🏻♀️Angst/Suspense
⚓️Dual Timeline
🧘🏻♀️He 💦in his 👖
⚓️Hand Necklaces for Both
🧘🏻♀️Voyeurism
⚓️Traumatic Past for Both
🧘🏻♀️It’s Always Been You
⚓️Dual POV
🧘🏻♀️HEA
June 3, 2025
ARC Read – Honest Review. Thank you, Berlin, for trusting me to be part of your street team.
This book should be a movie. 🎬
It’s the third in The Balance of Power series, but you can totally read it as a standalone. That said, if you have read the first two, you’ll catch little Easter eggs that make it even better. Berlin did a beautiful job tying in the connection to the series while giving The Games We Play its own space to shine.
---
💥 What to Expect / Lo que trae este romance:
💘 Second Chance vibes
🏡 Neighbors to Lovers
😤 Grumpy x Sunshine energy
🕰️ Past/Present timeline
💪 Ex-Navy SEAL x Yoga Instructor
🫶 Dual POV (yes, both sides!)
⚠️ And that “touch her and d*e” energy?🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
---
⚠️ Trigger Warnings / Nota al lector:
Berlin includes a very respectful note to the reader about potential triggers. This story includes:
● Graphic violent scenes
● Heavy emotional trauma
● Explicit sexual content
If you're conservative or sensitive to strong scenes, please take this into account. That said, Berlin handles every topic with so much care and respect. Especially one very specific scene, Berlin NAILED it. Hats off. 🎩
---
🎧 The Vibes
Even though this series is known for its tantric-y, steamy vibes, this third book felt deeper. Yes, there's spice, pero la TRAMA y el DRAMA aquí se sintieron más intensos. The emotional storyline hit me in ways I didn’t expect. 🥺
Every time I sat down to read (no, I didn’t devour it in one night—I had a lot going on), it felt like an emotional adventure. I laughed, I giggled, I cried, I got angry… hasta me vi reflejada en mis años de juventud. Those silly little “games” we played in high school? Yeah.
---
🧘♀️ What I loved about Mimi & Saemus
Saemus:
A man shaped by trauma, but not defined by it. He didn’t repeat the cycle. He chose to be different.. while still having that alpha edge. Honestly, the way he treats Mimi? 😍
Mimi:
Marked by her past, with traumas, she tried to bury just to move forward. But, a past without forgiveness or closure will haunt you until you decide to put a stop to it.
Together:
Their chemistry? OFF. THE. CHARTS.
They built something deep in weeks, and even after years of distance, that spark? •••
The flirtation, the physical connection, the intimacy, it was earned, not rushed. 🔥
---
✍️ Favorite Quotes
> “But baby,” he leans closer, pressing his forehead to mine, “the only time you’ll see my back is when I’m shielding you from the pain of this world.”
— 🥹 I MELTED.
> “She’s my inspiration. My muse. She’s been the driving factor since the moment I met her, even when we were apart, she was there.”
— HELLO?? This man...
---
🤔 Final Thoughts
Berlin Wick does it again. This book made me FEEL, not just with the spice but with the pain and the love. The way they drifted apart, the reason behind it, and how they found their way back? Intense! 🫶
And that epilogue? DANE… I see you. 👀
I need his story like yesterday.
This book should be a movie. 🎬
It’s the third in The Balance of Power series, but you can totally read it as a standalone. That said, if you have read the first two, you’ll catch little Easter eggs that make it even better. Berlin did a beautiful job tying in the connection to the series while giving The Games We Play its own space to shine.
---
💥 What to Expect / Lo que trae este romance:
💘 Second Chance vibes
🏡 Neighbors to Lovers
😤 Grumpy x Sunshine energy
🕰️ Past/Present timeline
💪 Ex-Navy SEAL x Yoga Instructor
🫶 Dual POV (yes, both sides!)
⚠️ And that “touch her and d*e” energy?🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
---
⚠️ Trigger Warnings / Nota al lector:
Berlin includes a very respectful note to the reader about potential triggers. This story includes:
● Graphic violent scenes
● Heavy emotional trauma
● Explicit sexual content
If you're conservative or sensitive to strong scenes, please take this into account. That said, Berlin handles every topic with so much care and respect. Especially one very specific scene, Berlin NAILED it. Hats off. 🎩
---
🎧 The Vibes
Even though this series is known for its tantric-y, steamy vibes, this third book felt deeper. Yes, there's spice, pero la TRAMA y el DRAMA aquí se sintieron más intensos. The emotional storyline hit me in ways I didn’t expect. 🥺
Every time I sat down to read (no, I didn’t devour it in one night—I had a lot going on), it felt like an emotional adventure. I laughed, I giggled, I cried, I got angry… hasta me vi reflejada en mis años de juventud. Those silly little “games” we played in high school? Yeah.
---
🧘♀️ What I loved about Mimi & Saemus
Saemus:
A man shaped by trauma, but not defined by it. He didn’t repeat the cycle. He chose to be different.. while still having that alpha edge. Honestly, the way he treats Mimi? 😍
Mimi:
Marked by her past, with traumas, she tried to bury just to move forward. But, a past without forgiveness or closure will haunt you until you decide to put a stop to it.
Together:
Their chemistry? OFF. THE. CHARTS.
They built something deep in weeks, and even after years of distance, that spark? •••
The flirtation, the physical connection, the intimacy, it was earned, not rushed. 🔥
---
✍️ Favorite Quotes
> “But baby,” he leans closer, pressing his forehead to mine, “the only time you’ll see my back is when I’m shielding you from the pain of this world.”
— 🥹 I MELTED.
> “She’s my inspiration. My muse. She’s been the driving factor since the moment I met her, even when we were apart, she was there.”
— HELLO?? This man...
---
🤔 Final Thoughts
Berlin Wick does it again. This book made me FEEL, not just with the spice but with the pain and the love. The way they drifted apart, the reason behind it, and how they found their way back? Intense! 🫶
And that epilogue? DANE… I see you. 👀
I need his story like yesterday.
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
🗓️ Release Date: 06.05.2025
📚 Book #3 in the "Balance of Power" Series; Interconnected Standalone
💥 Check Your Trigger Warnings
This review actually took me a long time to get down my thoughts of the book. Not because the book was bad [cause it wasnt] but because I just have a lot of thoughts and feelings that I needed to sort out. Without making this review miles long, this was a solidly written book, that had a lot of depth and tragedy intertwined.
Some things about the story for the FMC Mimi did feel a little strange to me, but ive never been through the situations that she has so I cant say that this is, or is not how a person in her shoes would chose to heal. I do think that shes badass, and I appreciate that she steps out of her comfort zone with Seamus and doesnt play the meek mouse.
Seamus and the whole court chapter also feels a little lose, like there are things that dont exactly line up or arnt fully explained like the Guard who they run into at the end of the chapter, we dont get to know how he knows him even though we meet one of the CO's who served with him.
Nothing that would throw me out of the story, or make the book less interesting for me. Just some things that niggle my brain for answers. It was great to see Seamus & Mimi get their HEA after 10yrs apart, and we get to watch them heal together too. I would love to know what happened to Sean & Wes and how they handled what happened at Camp, maybe we hear from them in future books 🤔
Read this book if you are interested in the below Tropes/Micro Tropes & You can handle the Triggers
Tropes:
🧘🏻♀️ Second Chance
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
🧘🏻♀️ Neighbors to Lovers
🖤 Ex-NavySeal MMC
🧘🏻♀️ Yoga Instructor FMC
🖤 Touch her and Die
🧘🏻♀️ Past/Present timeline
🖤 Dual POV
Micro Tropes
🧘🏻♀️ Sex Club
🖤 Public display of Tantric Massage
🧘🏻♀️ He comes in his pants
🖤 Hand necklace for her…and him.
🧘🏻♀️ Voyeurism
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
🗓️ Release Date: 06.05.2025
📚 Book #3 in the "Balance of Power" Series; Interconnected Standalone
💥 Check Your Trigger Warnings
This review actually took me a long time to get down my thoughts of the book. Not because the book was bad [cause it wasnt] but because I just have a lot of thoughts and feelings that I needed to sort out. Without making this review miles long, this was a solidly written book, that had a lot of depth and tragedy intertwined.
Some things about the story for the FMC Mimi did feel a little strange to me, but ive never been through the situations that she has so I cant say that this is, or is not how a person in her shoes would chose to heal. I do think that shes badass, and I appreciate that she steps out of her comfort zone with Seamus and doesnt play the meek mouse.
Seamus and the whole court chapter also feels a little lose, like there are things that dont exactly line up or arnt fully explained like the Guard who they run into at the end of the chapter, we dont get to know how he knows him even though we meet one of the CO's who served with him.
Nothing that would throw me out of the story, or make the book less interesting for me. Just some things that niggle my brain for answers. It was great to see Seamus & Mimi get their HEA after 10yrs apart, and we get to watch them heal together too. I would love to know what happened to Sean & Wes and how they handled what happened at Camp, maybe we hear from them in future books 🤔
Read this book if you are interested in the below Tropes/Micro Tropes & You can handle the Triggers
Tropes:
🧘🏻♀️ Second Chance
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
🧘🏻♀️ Neighbors to Lovers
🖤 Ex-NavySeal MMC
🧘🏻♀️ Yoga Instructor FMC
🖤 Touch her and Die
🧘🏻♀️ Past/Present timeline
🖤 Dual POV
Micro Tropes
🧘🏻♀️ Sex Club
🖤 Public display of Tantric Massage
🧘🏻♀️ He comes in his pants
🖤 Hand necklace for her…and him.
🧘🏻♀️ Voyeurism
November 17, 2025
3.5⭐️
I really enjoyed both the first books in the series. I thought the stories were done really well and the characters were great. I had higher expectations for this book and was slightly let down. It didn’t have as strong of a story compared to the first two books and the MCs weren’t as captivating as the previous books.
The second 50% was a lot stronger than the first 50%. This was a second chance story and I felt the flashbacks actually hindered the story more than enhanced it. Usually I love flashbacks that show the second chance background. This one just felt a bit clunky and it was focused on the characters when they were 17. And it included spicy scenes that just gave me the ick. If they’re teens just close door it, I’m not interested in reading about their sex. Especially as it’s an adult book, I’d much rather the smut be designated to adult characters.
The second half was a lot stronger and felt more like the first two books and saved the story for me. It was much more interesting seeing Seamus’ military background come out. I kind of wish we got more of his military stuff then the teen stuff. I found Naomi to be written a bit all over the place. She has some serious and understandable trauma responses to a violent attack in her youth. But her journey felt very unbelievable especially with being so damaged from the sexual attack having little to no intimacy in 10 years but then teaching tantric classes and being suddenly ok with all sex because it was Seamus. I think some of that should’ve been handled a bit better.
Dane’s book is next and while I’m intrigued with where his story will go being MMF, I’m not keen that it’s going to be professor x student, taboo romance. Hoping the storyline will be stronger. Also Kobi was not mentioned or even in this book even though all the other main characters popped up. Was a bit weird he was just forgotten.
I really enjoyed both the first books in the series. I thought the stories were done really well and the characters were great. I had higher expectations for this book and was slightly let down. It didn’t have as strong of a story compared to the first two books and the MCs weren’t as captivating as the previous books.
The second 50% was a lot stronger than the first 50%. This was a second chance story and I felt the flashbacks actually hindered the story more than enhanced it. Usually I love flashbacks that show the second chance background. This one just felt a bit clunky and it was focused on the characters when they were 17. And it included spicy scenes that just gave me the ick. If they’re teens just close door it, I’m not interested in reading about their sex. Especially as it’s an adult book, I’d much rather the smut be designated to adult characters.
The second half was a lot stronger and felt more like the first two books and saved the story for me. It was much more interesting seeing Seamus’ military background come out. I kind of wish we got more of his military stuff then the teen stuff. I found Naomi to be written a bit all over the place. She has some serious and understandable trauma responses to a violent attack in her youth. But her journey felt very unbelievable especially with being so damaged from the sexual attack having little to no intimacy in 10 years but then teaching tantric classes and being suddenly ok with all sex because it was Seamus. I think some of that should’ve been handled a bit better.
Dane’s book is next and while I’m intrigued with where his story will go being MMF, I’m not keen that it’s going to be professor x student, taboo romance. Hoping the storyline will be stronger. Also Kobi was not mentioned or even in this book even though all the other main characters popped up. Was a bit weird he was just forgotten.
May 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
🌶🌶🌶🌶 out of 5
❤️Neighbors to Lovers
💞Dual Timelines
🔪Touch her and d1e
🧘♀️Yoga Instructor x Ex Navy SEAL turned Security
🔥Public Spice Lessons
Review
I did quite enjoy this but more so in the first half. I loved getting to know them in the dual timeline and the edgy humor they both had. Seamus is such a lovable grump. They had a whirlwind teenage first love which was cut short by Traumatic events for both in different ways. The 10 year separation is explained well by these events.
Mimi's vocation (yoga instructor who does n@ked yoga!) given her history felt unrealistic to me? Just a big stretch as a way to maybe overcome her fears? And there's a bit of a miscommunication trope.
OK, the Tantric massage scene will probably be a love it or cringe scene for all. I personally cringed but I bet many will absolutely love it. I just find it hard to believe that such a wound up tight person like Seamus, shy in many ways, would give in to publicy stripping in front of 20 strangers (who are also nak3d) and let a yoga instructor massage his manhood. Points for original spice op, but I couldn't get behind it. When the FMC claims to be more shy and Inexperienced but then works in s3x clubs and instructs n@ked massages, I don't quite believe her as being so shy. And when her and Seamus have their spicy breakthrough, it felt toonquick and easy for her to overcome, and of course she wants it rough.
All THAT aside, I really love the history and humor tinged dynamic with them! And of course love how he wants to get revenge on her behalf, go all Rambo and protect her. He also talks to her and gives her a choice at a penultimate part of the 3r
🌶🌶🌶🌶 out of 5
❤️Neighbors to Lovers
💞Dual Timelines
🔪Touch her and d1e
🧘♀️Yoga Instructor x Ex Navy SEAL turned Security
🔥Public Spice Lessons
Review
I did quite enjoy this but more so in the first half. I loved getting to know them in the dual timeline and the edgy humor they both had. Seamus is such a lovable grump. They had a whirlwind teenage first love which was cut short by Traumatic events for both in different ways. The 10 year separation is explained well by these events.
Mimi's vocation (yoga instructor who does n@ked yoga!) given her history felt unrealistic to me? Just a big stretch as a way to maybe overcome her fears? And there's a bit of a miscommunication trope.
OK, the Tantric massage scene will probably be a love it or cringe scene for all. I personally cringed but I bet many will absolutely love it. I just find it hard to believe that such a wound up tight person like Seamus, shy in many ways, would give in to publicy stripping in front of 20 strangers (who are also nak3d) and let a yoga instructor massage his manhood. Points for original spice op, but I couldn't get behind it. When the FMC claims to be more shy and Inexperienced but then works in s3x clubs and instructs n@ked massages, I don't quite believe her as being so shy. And when her and Seamus have their spicy breakthrough, it felt toonquick and easy for her to overcome, and of course she wants it rough.
All THAT aside, I really love the history and humor tinged dynamic with them! And of course love how he wants to get revenge on her behalf, go all Rambo and protect her. He also talks to her and gives her a choice at a penultimate part of the 3r
June 4, 2025
5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Wow I love Berlin wick more and more with each book! This one was so emotional. An absolutely incredible second chance romance with dual timeline!
✨ Second chance romance
🌌 Grumpy X Sunshine
✨ Light stalking
🌌 Neighbors to lovers
✨ Dual timeline
🌌 Ex navy seal X yoga instructor
✨ Touxh her & 💀
What a stunning second chance romance with amazing found family, touch her and die, and so much healing and love.
This was absolutely the most complex book of the series, in all the best ways. Naomi and Seamus had so many layers and complexities to their personalities and I loved seeing them grow both together and apart through the dual timeline setup.
Seamus hurt Naomi and in the future, there is nothing he won’t do to make her feel happy and safe. The way he helped her heal after so long of feeling like a stranger in her body made me SOB.
Also the SPICE! Berlin is now 3/3 for writing Roman Empire spicy scenes that stick with me long after I’ve finished the book. That tantric massage scene was both so funny and so HOT! Also his own little voyeuristic tendencies were just pure gold.
🌶️ spicy microtropes : 💦 in the 👖 moment, hand necklaces for him & her, group scenes, voyeurism, sex club, tantric massage
⚠️ There are very heavy topics detailed in this book, so PLEASE check TWs before starting. There is also a warning before a particularly heavy chapter that you can skip over if you feel like it would be best for you ❤️🩹.
Thank you so much to Berlin Wick for the opportunity to arc read The Games We Play!
Wow I love Berlin wick more and more with each book! This one was so emotional. An absolutely incredible second chance romance with dual timeline!
✨ Second chance romance
🌌 Grumpy X Sunshine
✨ Light stalking
🌌 Neighbors to lovers
✨ Dual timeline
🌌 Ex navy seal X yoga instructor
✨ Touxh her & 💀
What a stunning second chance romance with amazing found family, touch her and die, and so much healing and love.
This was absolutely the most complex book of the series, in all the best ways. Naomi and Seamus had so many layers and complexities to their personalities and I loved seeing them grow both together and apart through the dual timeline setup.
Seamus hurt Naomi and in the future, there is nothing he won’t do to make her feel happy and safe. The way he helped her heal after so long of feeling like a stranger in her body made me SOB.
Also the SPICE! Berlin is now 3/3 for writing Roman Empire spicy scenes that stick with me long after I’ve finished the book. That tantric massage scene was both so funny and so HOT! Also his own little voyeuristic tendencies were just pure gold.
🌶️ spicy microtropes : 💦 in the 👖 moment, hand necklaces for him & her, group scenes, voyeurism, sex club, tantric massage
⚠️ There are very heavy topics detailed in this book, so PLEASE check TWs before starting. There is also a warning before a particularly heavy chapter that you can skip over if you feel like it would be best for you ❤️🩹.
Thank you so much to Berlin Wick for the opportunity to arc read The Games We Play!
June 7, 2025
Another fabulous read by Berlin. If you haven’t read any of her books you’re missing out!
June 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 STARS/3🌶️ — ARC Review
Hi. I like walking into a book expecting one thing and getting my ass handed another. 😂🥵🤯
Berlin Wick does NOT play fair—in the best way. This book starts with tropes we think we know:
TROPE SETUP:
• Second Chance
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Neighbors to Lovers
• Ex-Navy SEAL MMC
• Yoga Instructor FMC
• Touch Her and Die
• Past/Present Timeline
• Dual POV
MICRO-TROPES & KINKS:
• Sex club scenes
• Public Tantric Massage (yes, you read that right)
• Voyeurism
• “He comes in his pants” moment
• The “hand necklace” (for both of them 😮💨)
• AND of course, ex-Navy SEAL x Yoga Instructor energy
Cool cool cool…
But Then: Plot twist from hell (and I mean that as a compliment).
We get this soft, summer-camp love story that crashes into a ten-year heartbreak cliff. Mimi loses her virginity to Seamus at camp. Then? Poof. He’s gone. She loathes him. Until fate throws them back together at a sex club a decade later. She sees a ghost. He sees the girl he’s been trying to find for TEN YEARS.
Normal people say hi and exchange numbers. Seamus? Moves into the house next door (that isn’t even for sale) and goes full “Touch Her and Die” piss over everything mode. And I was INTO IT.
⸻——————————————————————-
🔥 Scenes that made me 💀 (in a good way):
• Spin the Bottle Roulette — Intense doesn’t even cover it. Wes + Shane? Mimi + Shane? OKAY.
• The tantric massage scene — In PUBLIC. With the whole squad there. I would have combusted. Dane, Jake, Hudson, Ember… all witnessing the unhinged sexual tension.
• The date. The abortion. The assault.
When Mimi’s past starts unraveling, the weight of it crashes down. Nathan? Human garbage. The attempted murder scene? Chilling.
Wes to the rescue and Mimi saying, “Please don’t leave me” had me ☹️——then Seamus telling Rocco to send the court case files over with photos; cue Bad Omens Just Pretend overlay with Supernatural hotel smashing scene 🎬 💔
• The airplane scene — Seamus literally tells her to take it out on him, and what does Mimi do? Hand necklace him into oblivion. Cuts off his air. Fully takes control. The tension, the release, the healing, the power exchange? ✈️🔥 Lort.
• Prison visitation — Possibly the most triggering yet powerful scene in the book. I wanted to puke and cheer at the same time. No remorse from Nathan, just pure villain energy. But then Seamus and Mimi? Came through with lines that made me SCREAM.
“You’re going to regret everything you’ve ever done to any woman you’ve ever looked at. And Mimi, she’s mine. She’s always been mine.”
“Plan B?” — MIMI. YESSSSS.
And THEN they fuck like feral animals in the truck right after? 🧑🍳💋
• Chapter 46 — THE chapter. The emotional whiplash, the feral intensity, the lines.
“Oh, now it’s Seamus?”
“I made a promise to you at the prison earlier today, and I always keep my promises,” I remind him.
“Because I’m going to whisper every single detail of how you begged for your life, while I fuck the memory of you out of her.”
⸻
Things I loved:
• The way Berlin Wick gives you steam and substance.
• Seamus’s quiet obsession and undying love. The paintings? 🥹
• The proposal scene and pregnancy reveal. Felt earned and healing, especially considering her trauma and her inner dialogue around motherhood.
Final thoughts:
This book took a hard left into trauma, healing, “justice”, revenge, and survival—and it was damn near perfect. I love when a book gives you something so much deeper than expected. The mix of kink, rage, grief, and love? Yep yep yep.
Can’t wait for Dane’s book! That wingman has a STORY and I need it. Plus Taboo MMF!? SIGN ME UP 👏 🖤🔥🖤🔥🖤
Hi. I like walking into a book expecting one thing and getting my ass handed another. 😂🥵🤯
Berlin Wick does NOT play fair—in the best way. This book starts with tropes we think we know:
TROPE SETUP:
• Second Chance
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• Neighbors to Lovers
• Ex-Navy SEAL MMC
• Yoga Instructor FMC
• Touch Her and Die
• Past/Present Timeline
• Dual POV
MICRO-TROPES & KINKS:
• Sex club scenes
• Public Tantric Massage (yes, you read that right)
• Voyeurism
• “He comes in his pants” moment
• The “hand necklace” (for both of them 😮💨)
• AND of course, ex-Navy SEAL x Yoga Instructor energy
Cool cool cool…
But Then: Plot twist from hell (and I mean that as a compliment).
We get this soft, summer-camp love story that crashes into a ten-year heartbreak cliff. Mimi loses her virginity to Seamus at camp. Then? Poof. He’s gone. She loathes him. Until fate throws them back together at a sex club a decade later. She sees a ghost. He sees the girl he’s been trying to find for TEN YEARS.
Normal people say hi and exchange numbers. Seamus? Moves into the house next door (that isn’t even for sale) and goes full “Touch Her and Die” piss over everything mode. And I was INTO IT.
⸻——————————————————————-
🔥 Scenes that made me 💀 (in a good way):
• Spin the Bottle Roulette — Intense doesn’t even cover it. Wes + Shane? Mimi + Shane? OKAY.
• The tantric massage scene — In PUBLIC. With the whole squad there. I would have combusted. Dane, Jake, Hudson, Ember… all witnessing the unhinged sexual tension.
• The date. The abortion. The assault.
When Mimi’s past starts unraveling, the weight of it crashes down. Nathan? Human garbage. The attempted murder scene? Chilling.
Wes to the rescue and Mimi saying, “Please don’t leave me” had me ☹️——then Seamus telling Rocco to send the court case files over with photos; cue Bad Omens Just Pretend overlay with Supernatural hotel smashing scene 🎬 💔
• The airplane scene — Seamus literally tells her to take it out on him, and what does Mimi do? Hand necklace him into oblivion. Cuts off his air. Fully takes control. The tension, the release, the healing, the power exchange? ✈️🔥 Lort.
• Prison visitation — Possibly the most triggering yet powerful scene in the book. I wanted to puke and cheer at the same time. No remorse from Nathan, just pure villain energy. But then Seamus and Mimi? Came through with lines that made me SCREAM.
“You’re going to regret everything you’ve ever done to any woman you’ve ever looked at. And Mimi, she’s mine. She’s always been mine.”
“Plan B?” — MIMI. YESSSSS.
And THEN they fuck like feral animals in the truck right after? 🧑🍳💋
• Chapter 46 — THE chapter. The emotional whiplash, the feral intensity, the lines.
“Oh, now it’s Seamus?”
“I made a promise to you at the prison earlier today, and I always keep my promises,” I remind him.
“Because I’m going to whisper every single detail of how you begged for your life, while I fuck the memory of you out of her.”
⸻
Things I loved:
• The way Berlin Wick gives you steam and substance.
• Seamus’s quiet obsession and undying love. The paintings? 🥹
• The proposal scene and pregnancy reveal. Felt earned and healing, especially considering her trauma and her inner dialogue around motherhood.
Final thoughts:
This book took a hard left into trauma, healing, “justice”, revenge, and survival—and it was damn near perfect. I love when a book gives you something so much deeper than expected. The mix of kink, rage, grief, and love? Yep yep yep.
Can’t wait for Dane’s book! That wingman has a STORY and I need it. Plus Taboo MMF!? SIGN ME UP 👏 🖤🔥🖤🔥🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2025
"I wasn't done loving you yet. And I'm here to prove it."
🧘🏻♀️Second Chance
🩷Grumpy/Sunshine
🧘🏻♀️Neighbors to Lovers
🩷Ex-Navy Seal MMC
🧘🏻♀️Yoga Instructor FMC
🩷Touch her and 💀
🧘🏻♀️Past/Present Tmeline
🩷Dual POV
✨ Wow! This book was definitely nothing like expected but I absolutely devoured it. I was taken on a journey of a second chance romance that had me giggling/kicking my feet, pulling at my heart strings, and also had me clutching my metaphorical pearls. The unexpected element of suspense was such an interesting plot point that had me flipping through the pages.
✨Ten Years ago, Seamus & Mimi meet at a summer camp when they are teens on the brink of adulthood. Spending all of 14 days together but were so enamored by one another they’ve been thinking of each other ever since. They haven’t seen or heard from one another in all this time. Seamus abruptly has to leave camp without a word, leaving Mimi confused and hurt. Given all they had shared in their time together, she doesn’t understand what happened. How could he just leave her like that? It later dawns on Seamus when he tries to find her that he doesn’t even know her last name. All this time later, Seamus is on a mission with all his skills and connections he has gained in the military to find Mimi. After a chance run-in, he’s determined to not lose her again.
✨I just loved Mimi! She was feisty and so funny. The way she evolved into the woman she became all those years later was inspiring. She reveled in her power and fully stepped into it. What isn’t there to love about Seamus?? From the sweet, romantic and thoughtful young man to the strong, fearless protector her became...I loved everything about that man. The ferocity in which he loved Mimi with was so heartwarming. Their story couldn’t have been more perfect.
⛔️ There is a triggering subject that comes along in the middle of the story. I so appreciated that the author took a moment to write down on page that the following chapter is what contains the extremely sensitive material and if you wish to not read that then to skip to the next chapter. So much respect for an author who really truly cares about their well-being of their readers. It is obviously pointed out where it can be found, and how it can easily be skipped over if you prefer not to read it without ruining your reading experience.
🍭 Thank you so much to Berlin Wick for the ARC.
🧘🏻♀️Second Chance
🩷Grumpy/Sunshine
🧘🏻♀️Neighbors to Lovers
🩷Ex-Navy Seal MMC
🧘🏻♀️Yoga Instructor FMC
🩷Touch her and 💀
🧘🏻♀️Past/Present Tmeline
🩷Dual POV
✨ Wow! This book was definitely nothing like expected but I absolutely devoured it. I was taken on a journey of a second chance romance that had me giggling/kicking my feet, pulling at my heart strings, and also had me clutching my metaphorical pearls. The unexpected element of suspense was such an interesting plot point that had me flipping through the pages.
✨Ten Years ago, Seamus & Mimi meet at a summer camp when they are teens on the brink of adulthood. Spending all of 14 days together but were so enamored by one another they’ve been thinking of each other ever since. They haven’t seen or heard from one another in all this time. Seamus abruptly has to leave camp without a word, leaving Mimi confused and hurt. Given all they had shared in their time together, she doesn’t understand what happened. How could he just leave her like that? It later dawns on Seamus when he tries to find her that he doesn’t even know her last name. All this time later, Seamus is on a mission with all his skills and connections he has gained in the military to find Mimi. After a chance run-in, he’s determined to not lose her again.
✨I just loved Mimi! She was feisty and so funny. The way she evolved into the woman she became all those years later was inspiring. She reveled in her power and fully stepped into it. What isn’t there to love about Seamus?? From the sweet, romantic and thoughtful young man to the strong, fearless protector her became...I loved everything about that man. The ferocity in which he loved Mimi with was so heartwarming. Their story couldn’t have been more perfect.
⛔️ There is a triggering subject that comes along in the middle of the story. I so appreciated that the author took a moment to write down on page that the following chapter is what contains the extremely sensitive material and if you wish to not read that then to skip to the next chapter. So much respect for an author who really truly cares about their well-being of their readers. It is obviously pointed out where it can be found, and how it can easily be skipped over if you prefer not to read it without ruining your reading experience.
🍭 Thank you so much to Berlin Wick for the ARC.
June 16, 2025
I think Seamus and Mimi’s story might be my favorite of the series! I LOVE when an MMC is gruff and broody and only soft for her! And Seamus was just that! This series has been absolutely fantastic and I am always looking forward to the next one!! This book had some heavy trauma but Berlin Wick did amazing warning readers and leaving it up to us whether to read the detailed chapter or not, I thought that was very thoughtful to those who may have triggers. I definitely recommend this book and whole series!!!
July 23, 2025
3,25*
August 21, 2025
Another 5 star read from Berlin Wick!
Her books just keep getting better and better! This is my favourite out of them all but knowing Berlin, the best is yet to be!
Her books just keep getting better and better! This is my favourite out of them all but knowing Berlin, the best is yet to be!
May 23, 2025
Wow! This is an emotionally charged deep dive into themes of love, trauma, healing, and vengeance.
Seamus and Naomi meet as teenagers at camp. They spend two weeks together until the world falls apart for both of them. 10 years later, they have a chance encounter. Naomi is furious, but Seamus is committed to doing everything in his power to be with her again.
Seamus is unapologetically obsessed with Naomi. He has silently loved her for years, and he will do anything to protect, love, and heal her.
"The only time you’ll see my back is when I’m shielding you from the pain of this world.”
Naomi survives the unfathomable. She is strong, complex, and deeply human. Even after everything, she is a ray of "Sunshine."
This book doesn't shy away from pain or complexity. Instead, it uses it to build deep characters who are broken but not beyond hope.
I have read all 3 of Berlin Wick's novels. I have loved all of them. She is an automatic read for me from now on.
Make sure to read the trigger warnings.
"It’s official. I am triggered. Seamus Matthews is my trigger."
Huge thanks to Berlin Wick for the ARC of this powerful book. I am truly grateful to have experienced this story before release!
Seamus and Naomi meet as teenagers at camp. They spend two weeks together until the world falls apart for both of them. 10 years later, they have a chance encounter. Naomi is furious, but Seamus is committed to doing everything in his power to be with her again.
Seamus is unapologetically obsessed with Naomi. He has silently loved her for years, and he will do anything to protect, love, and heal her.
"The only time you’ll see my back is when I’m shielding you from the pain of this world.”
Naomi survives the unfathomable. She is strong, complex, and deeply human. Even after everything, she is a ray of "Sunshine."
This book doesn't shy away from pain or complexity. Instead, it uses it to build deep characters who are broken but not beyond hope.
I have read all 3 of Berlin Wick's novels. I have loved all of them. She is an automatic read for me from now on.
Make sure to read the trigger warnings.
"It’s official. I am triggered. Seamus Matthews is my trigger."
Huge thanks to Berlin Wick for the ARC of this powerful book. I am truly grateful to have experienced this story before release!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
Book 3 in the balance of power series and I am lost for words Berlin has written an outstanding book where you easily connect with both main characters, you will laugh and you may tear up when Mimi story is told from her past and finding out about Seamus past too.
I’m not normally a lover of going back in time but this works perfectly it just flows and it the first time an author has give you a choice to jump a chapter as it has triggers in this chapter.
I want to say more but the synopsis say enough otherwise I will give the story a way.
It was great seeing character from from the first two even if it was just short and I’m now intrigued by Dane
For me this is a 5🌟 read
I’m not normally a lover of going back in time but this works perfectly it just flows and it the first time an author has give you a choice to jump a chapter as it has triggers in this chapter.
I want to say more but the synopsis say enough otherwise I will give the story a way.
It was great seeing character from from the first two even if it was just short and I’m now intrigued by Dane
For me this is a 5🌟 read
June 2, 2025
I loved the first two books in the 'Balance Of Power' series, and was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for The Games We Play.
This book did not disappoint, I was hooked from the beginning. The heavier themes in this book were handled well, with the option to skip the detailed chapter without missing any of the storyline.
Berlin Wick is now one of my favourite authors and I'm looking forward to reading more from her.
This book did not disappoint, I was hooked from the beginning. The heavier themes in this book were handled well, with the option to skip the detailed chapter without missing any of the storyline.
Berlin Wick is now one of my favourite authors and I'm looking forward to reading more from her.
June 22, 2025
First off I absolutely love Berlin Wick and this series, shes doing such an amazing job. Her books are so captivating they're literally hard for me to put down lol.
Now on to this book. Wow! I loved Mimi and Seamus. this has Grumpy/Sunshine, second chance, forced proximity and touch her and 💀 Tropes 🤌 Their story is heartbreaking and healing all in one *(check the trigger warnings)* and i was so happy to see them both get the happy ending they deserved. I won't say too much and give anything away. Just know this book is amazing and definitely worth the read as is the first two!
*ARC REVIEW*
Now on to this book. Wow! I loved Mimi and Seamus. this has Grumpy/Sunshine, second chance, forced proximity and touch her and 💀 Tropes 🤌 Their story is heartbreaking and healing all in one *(check the trigger warnings)* and i was so happy to see them both get the happy ending they deserved. I won't say too much and give anything away. Just know this book is amazing and definitely worth the read as is the first two!
*ARC REVIEW*
June 5, 2025
★★★★★
"𝓘𝓯 𝓻𝓪𝓲𝓷𝓫𝓸𝔀𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓫𝓾𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓵𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓱𝓪𝓭 𝓪 𝓼𝓬𝓮𝓷𝓽, 𝓼𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓸𝓾𝓵𝓭 𝓫𝓮 𝓲𝓽. 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓼𝓾𝓷𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓮 𝓪𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓻𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓹𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓮𝓬𝓽 𝓼𝓹𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓭𝓪𝔂."
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 💭
Listen... When Seamus Matthews says, "Lose the date," you lose the damn date! No questions asked. This man had me absolutely feral.
This book has everything: a sweet teenage love story that turns into something deeper and more intense, with lost time, trauma, healing, and a beautiful second-chance romance that had me so in my feels the whole time.
Seamus is pure grump perfection - broody, obsessive in the best way, protective, a little stalkerish... yet somehow, still a total green flag. And Mimi, my sunshine girl. Fierce, kind, strong, and just the purest soul. He’s her safe place. She’s his light. I was obsessed with them from the start.
Their chemistry was off the charts, and the banter was so good. But this story isn’t all fluffy romance - it goes deep. There’s pain, misunderstanding, and real-life messiness, but also so much heart. It had all the “it’s always been you” vibes I love, with just the right amount of spice (um, tantric massage anyone? 🥵).
Berlin always delivers, but she really nailed it with this one. It tackles tough topics with the utmost care while still giving us swoon, spice, and emotion. I loved every page. I absolutely recommend this one (as I do the whole series), and I’ll definitely be reading it again.
Thank you, Berlin Wick, for the ARC. I adore you. You are insanely talented, and I can't wait to see what's next from you 🩷
"𝓘𝓯 𝓻𝓪𝓲𝓷𝓫𝓸𝔀𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓫𝓾𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓵𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓱𝓪𝓭 𝓪 𝓼𝓬𝓮𝓷𝓽, 𝓼𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓸𝓾𝓵𝓭 𝓫𝓮 𝓲𝓽. 𝓛𝓲𝓴𝓮 𝓼𝓾𝓷𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓮 𝓪𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓻𝓪𝓲𝓷 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓹𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓮𝓬𝓽 𝓼𝓹𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓭𝓪𝔂."
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 💭
Listen... When Seamus Matthews says, "Lose the date," you lose the damn date! No questions asked. This man had me absolutely feral.
This book has everything: a sweet teenage love story that turns into something deeper and more intense, with lost time, trauma, healing, and a beautiful second-chance romance that had me so in my feels the whole time.
Seamus is pure grump perfection - broody, obsessive in the best way, protective, a little stalkerish... yet somehow, still a total green flag. And Mimi, my sunshine girl. Fierce, kind, strong, and just the purest soul. He’s her safe place. She’s his light. I was obsessed with them from the start.
Their chemistry was off the charts, and the banter was so good. But this story isn’t all fluffy romance - it goes deep. There’s pain, misunderstanding, and real-life messiness, but also so much heart. It had all the “it’s always been you” vibes I love, with just the right amount of spice (um, tantric massage anyone? 🥵).
Berlin always delivers, but she really nailed it with this one. It tackles tough topics with the utmost care while still giving us swoon, spice, and emotion. I loved every page. I absolutely recommend this one (as I do the whole series), and I’ll definitely be reading it again.
Thank you, Berlin Wick, for the ARC. I adore you. You are insanely talented, and I can't wait to see what's next from you 🩷
June 25, 2025
“The Games We Play” is the third installment in the “Balance of Power” series. Seamus and Mimi’s story is an interconnected standalone in the Balance of Power series. A grumpy/sunshine, second chance romance, told in a past/present timeline with Dual POVs. It will make you smile and kick your feet with giddiness, but still brings all the open door spice you expect.
At seventeen, Seamus and Mimi meet as summer camp and fall in love. “Her dark chocolate eyes meet mine, and they’re the kind you get lost in, the kind that pulls you in and traps you unknowingly, but willingly. Her midnight hair compliments her gorgeous, almond-shaped eyes, and I’m officially speechless.” For two weeks they are inseparable, Mimi loses her virginity to Seamus, and then on the same night he disappears with no word to her. This was ten years ago…..
Seamus and his team are the security for the opening night at Afterburn. Taking the job to do security for Ember was purely a favor to his best friend Hudson. They are providing extra security due to the nature of the club and all the protestors. Whilst checking everything is okay inside, he notices a woman “slink” behind the black curtains that separates the voyeur rooms from the private rooms.
“My breath catches in my throat and my heartbeat stutters. Perfect, almond-shaped eyes, the color of the richest dark chocolate, stare back at me through the holes in her mask. I’d recognize those eyes any place, any time, in the darkest of rooms.
“Mimi?” I whisper.
“Seamus,” she whispers with shaky breath.”
For ten years he had looked for her and could not find her, now she is standing in front of him. “Jesus, she’s so beautiful.” She is angry at him for disappearing on her ten years….”You left!” The anguish behind her voice as it cracks is powerful and real.” She knees him between the legs and runs! She hates him, or so she tells herself….
Seamus being Seamus, gets his top person to investigate Mimi. Where has she been? What has she been doing for the last ten years? Where does she live? Do they stand a chance of a future together? Will Mimi open up about her past trauma and step outside her comfort zone for him? He will do anything he can to win her back!
🧘🏻♀️Second Chance⚓️Grumpy/Sunshine🧘🏻♀️Neighbors to Lovers⚓️Ex-Navy Seal MMC🧘🏻♀️Yoga Instructor FMC ⚓️Touch her and 💀🧘🏻♀️Possessive Hero⚓️Broken Heroine
🧘🏻♀️Past/Present Tmeline⚓️Dual POV
🧘🏻♀️Sex Club⚓️Public display of Tantric Massage
🧘🏻♀️He comes in his pants⚓️Hand necklace for her…and him
The book is full of the unexpected at times, voyeurism, passion, pain, blackmail, honest vulnerability - this book does not disappoint! There is never a dull moment - you will be kept thoroughly entertained from start to finish! I could not put this book down, page to page, chapter to chapter - read in less than twelve hours! Nearly every page sizzles with hot wanton sex or the thoughts or possibilities of what the punishment will be? The book - I did not want it to end! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
At seventeen, Seamus and Mimi meet as summer camp and fall in love. “Her dark chocolate eyes meet mine, and they’re the kind you get lost in, the kind that pulls you in and traps you unknowingly, but willingly. Her midnight hair compliments her gorgeous, almond-shaped eyes, and I’m officially speechless.” For two weeks they are inseparable, Mimi loses her virginity to Seamus, and then on the same night he disappears with no word to her. This was ten years ago…..
Seamus and his team are the security for the opening night at Afterburn. Taking the job to do security for Ember was purely a favor to his best friend Hudson. They are providing extra security due to the nature of the club and all the protestors. Whilst checking everything is okay inside, he notices a woman “slink” behind the black curtains that separates the voyeur rooms from the private rooms.
“My breath catches in my throat and my heartbeat stutters. Perfect, almond-shaped eyes, the color of the richest dark chocolate, stare back at me through the holes in her mask. I’d recognize those eyes any place, any time, in the darkest of rooms.
“Mimi?” I whisper.
“Seamus,” she whispers with shaky breath.”
For ten years he had looked for her and could not find her, now she is standing in front of him. “Jesus, she’s so beautiful.” She is angry at him for disappearing on her ten years….”You left!” The anguish behind her voice as it cracks is powerful and real.” She knees him between the legs and runs! She hates him, or so she tells herself….
Seamus being Seamus, gets his top person to investigate Mimi. Where has she been? What has she been doing for the last ten years? Where does she live? Do they stand a chance of a future together? Will Mimi open up about her past trauma and step outside her comfort zone for him? He will do anything he can to win her back!
🧘🏻♀️Second Chance⚓️Grumpy/Sunshine🧘🏻♀️Neighbors to Lovers⚓️Ex-Navy Seal MMC🧘🏻♀️Yoga Instructor FMC ⚓️Touch her and 💀🧘🏻♀️Possessive Hero⚓️Broken Heroine
🧘🏻♀️Past/Present Tmeline⚓️Dual POV
🧘🏻♀️Sex Club⚓️Public display of Tantric Massage
🧘🏻♀️He comes in his pants⚓️Hand necklace for her…and him
The book is full of the unexpected at times, voyeurism, passion, pain, blackmail, honest vulnerability - this book does not disappoint! There is never a dull moment - you will be kept thoroughly entertained from start to finish! I could not put this book down, page to page, chapter to chapter - read in less than twelve hours! Nearly every page sizzles with hot wanton sex or the thoughts or possibilities of what the punishment will be? The book - I did not want it to end! A thoroughly enjoyable read from page to page, one chapter to the next - at times you are metaphorical “on the edge of your chair” wondering what will happen next. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
June 10, 2025
ARC Review!
Seamus and Mimi meet at a summer camp when they were seventeen years old, clicking initially and spending two unbelievable weeks together. One night, everything changes and forces their heated relationship to end abruptly as they lose contact. Ten years later, fate brings them back together - Seamus is an ex-Navy SEAL and works security at a club where he comes across Mimi after years of searching. Determined to reconnect and not lose her again, Seamus moves in next door to her and is determined to be in her life, no matter the challenges that time presents.
There are some trigger warnings in the book, which the author is kind enough to give you ahead of time before a very triggering chapter. You can skip it without taking away from the story, but it's always important to check them before starting.
I absolutely loved these characters and their bond. Seamus remained devoted to Mimi and his search for her after they lost touch that fateful summer. He's crafted and molded by trauma, determined not to be defined by it. Seamus chose to be different while also keeping his edge as an Alpha male. He treats Mimi with such care and respect, not wanting to scare her off. There is also a shy side that echoes the seventeen year old boy he was when he and Mimi initially met that adds a layer to his character.
Mimi is a yoga instructor when we run into her. She radiates positivity, but has been marked by her past with trauma, but has tried to bury it and just move on with the assistance of her yoga training. But her past continues to haunt her, especially when Seamus returns to her life. She denies herself wanting answers, but knows she can't move on without it. When she finally opens up to Seamus, he's there to love and protect her. How she met her challenges head on and grew stronger from them is so inspiring and encouraging!
The dual timeline of their summer romance and the present day is written so well, fully getting the reader invested into our main couple and their second chance. Their relationship is complex in the best ways with their personalities and watching them grow together after the decade long separation was beautiful. Seeing them get their happily ever after was so satisfying! Berlin Wick has been on my radar for quite some time and this has lived up to expectations that makes me want to read the previous two books. If you love a spicy and beautifully written second chance romance with a dash of suspense, I'd definitely recommend this book!
Thank you to Berlin Wick and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to ARC read this book!
Seamus and Mimi meet at a summer camp when they were seventeen years old, clicking initially and spending two unbelievable weeks together. One night, everything changes and forces their heated relationship to end abruptly as they lose contact. Ten years later, fate brings them back together - Seamus is an ex-Navy SEAL and works security at a club where he comes across Mimi after years of searching. Determined to reconnect and not lose her again, Seamus moves in next door to her and is determined to be in her life, no matter the challenges that time presents.
There are some trigger warnings in the book, which the author is kind enough to give you ahead of time before a very triggering chapter. You can skip it without taking away from the story, but it's always important to check them before starting.
I absolutely loved these characters and their bond. Seamus remained devoted to Mimi and his search for her after they lost touch that fateful summer. He's crafted and molded by trauma, determined not to be defined by it. Seamus chose to be different while also keeping his edge as an Alpha male. He treats Mimi with such care and respect, not wanting to scare her off. There is also a shy side that echoes the seventeen year old boy he was when he and Mimi initially met that adds a layer to his character.
Mimi is a yoga instructor when we run into her. She radiates positivity, but has been marked by her past with trauma, but has tried to bury it and just move on with the assistance of her yoga training. But her past continues to haunt her, especially when Seamus returns to her life. She denies herself wanting answers, but knows she can't move on without it. When she finally opens up to Seamus, he's there to love and protect her. How she met her challenges head on and grew stronger from them is so inspiring and encouraging!
The dual timeline of their summer romance and the present day is written so well, fully getting the reader invested into our main couple and their second chance. Their relationship is complex in the best ways with their personalities and watching them grow together after the decade long separation was beautiful. Seeing them get their happily ever after was so satisfying! Berlin Wick has been on my radar for quite some time and this has lived up to expectations that makes me want to read the previous two books. If you love a spicy and beautifully written second chance romance with a dash of suspense, I'd definitely recommend this book!
Thank you to Berlin Wick and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to ARC read this book!
June 6, 2025
Tropes:
-second chance
-dual POV
-dual timeline
-forced proximity
-neighbors to lovers
-it’s always been you
-touch her and die
-yoga instructor FMC
-ex-navy seal MMC
-traumatic past
-healing
-hand necklaces
-grumpy x sunshine
-a sprinkle of stalking
***Check your TWs
Berlin Wick has officially become one of my favorite authors. This is book number three in the Balance of Power series, which I love. Her writing is captivating, emotional, and funny. I can’t recommend her books enough. I did not expect to cry going into this book, but I did, multiple times. It was such a beautiful story.
Seamus went above and beyond for Naomi (Mimi). Their chemistry is incredible. Even at 18 years old, they connect instantly. When they reunite, it is even more explosive. I love Seamus’ patience with Mimi. He never pushes, and listens to her wants and desires.
I love how Berlin writes the group of friends. There is no shame in sex or the kinks they enjoy or explore. These books explore a lot of unique things, and I love them. I highly recommend the other books in this series if you haven't read them. They are all fantastic. They are available on KU, and the first book, The Secrets We Hide (a MFM romance), has an audiobook. Sean Masters and Branden Davis-Butler outstandingly bring the characters to life in duet narration.
Dedication:
To all the bookish girls: Who suddenly become red and green colorblind when a 6’2 ex-Navy SEAL moves in next door.
Tropes:
“The only way you could hurt me is if you left me. That would probably kill me this time.”
“I know you don’t want to say it because you’re scared, scared something will happen or I’ll leave. But baby,” he leans closer, pressing his forehead to mine, “the only time you’ll see my back is when I’m shielding you from the pain of this world. You don’t have to say it, sunshine. I feel it. Just like I’ve always felt you, no matter where I was—no matter what I was doing—you were the sun in my day and the stars in my night.”
“There’s only one thing I’m scared of in this world. It’s living a life without you in it. It’s the nightmare of the last ten years, knowing you were out there, but completely unattainable. You give me so much purpose and meaning that I probably don’t deserve, but I’ll spend a lifetime proving it, because I’ll never stop loving you.”
“It’s always been you, sunshine.”
Spicy Chapters:
-Chapter 11
-Chapter 14
-Chapter 23
-Chapter 26
-Chapter 29
-Chapter 36
-Chapter 42
-Chapter 49
-second chance
-dual POV
-dual timeline
-forced proximity
-neighbors to lovers
-it’s always been you
-touch her and die
-yoga instructor FMC
-ex-navy seal MMC
-traumatic past
-healing
-hand necklaces
-grumpy x sunshine
-a sprinkle of stalking
***Check your TWs
Berlin Wick has officially become one of my favorite authors. This is book number three in the Balance of Power series, which I love. Her writing is captivating, emotional, and funny. I can’t recommend her books enough. I did not expect to cry going into this book, but I did, multiple times. It was such a beautiful story.
Seamus went above and beyond for Naomi (Mimi). Their chemistry is incredible. Even at 18 years old, they connect instantly. When they reunite, it is even more explosive. I love Seamus’ patience with Mimi. He never pushes, and listens to her wants and desires.
I love how Berlin writes the group of friends. There is no shame in sex or the kinks they enjoy or explore. These books explore a lot of unique things, and I love them. I highly recommend the other books in this series if you haven't read them. They are all fantastic. They are available on KU, and the first book, The Secrets We Hide (a MFM romance), has an audiobook. Sean Masters and Branden Davis-Butler outstandingly bring the characters to life in duet narration.
Dedication:
To all the bookish girls: Who suddenly become red and green colorblind when a 6’2 ex-Navy SEAL moves in next door.
Tropes:
“The only way you could hurt me is if you left me. That would probably kill me this time.”
“I know you don’t want to say it because you’re scared, scared something will happen or I’ll leave. But baby,” he leans closer, pressing his forehead to mine, “the only time you’ll see my back is when I’m shielding you from the pain of this world. You don’t have to say it, sunshine. I feel it. Just like I’ve always felt you, no matter where I was—no matter what I was doing—you were the sun in my day and the stars in my night.”
“There’s only one thing I’m scared of in this world. It’s living a life without you in it. It’s the nightmare of the last ten years, knowing you were out there, but completely unattainable. You give me so much purpose and meaning that I probably don’t deserve, but I’ll spend a lifetime proving it, because I’ll never stop loving you.”
“It’s always been you, sunshine.”
Spicy Chapters:
-Chapter 11
-Chapter 14
-Chapter 23
-Chapter 26
-Chapter 29
-Chapter 36
-Chapter 42
-Chapter 49
May 27, 2025
I love when a series surprises you & Berlin Wick has done that here with the 3rd book in this series. Each book has been different but this 3rd one is a bit more darker than the previous ones (please check TW). Seamus has been a peripheral character that has intrigued me and I am so glad we get his story. It's a second chance that has a dual timeline that will have your heart both swelling & breaking before the pieces are put back together.
Seamus has a chance encounter with the girl he met at summer camp a decade prior - the one that got away & that he still thinks about. Now that he has his second chance, he's not going to let her go (and that includes buying the house next door). Naomi (aka Mimi) is trying to keep the past in the past but seeing the boy who both stole & broke her heart has her in a tailspin. Without giving spoilers, Mimi has severe trauma that she tries to hide from Seamus but as their connection sparks back to life, she confesses her truth & Seamus will do anything to give Mimi the peace she deserves.
Mimi & Seamus have that grumpy x sunshine banter but Seamus goes all in real quick. He is not shy about making it known that Mimi is it for him. The lighthearted moments offset some truly heavy ones, as we learn what happens to Mimi through that dual timeline (tho that chapter can be skipped without missing context) & how her experience has impacted her today. Seamus is protective, a little controlling but also very emotionally attuned to Mimi. His patience & understanding is exactly what she needs. I really appreciated the care Berlin Wick took with these characters.
And just like the previous books, there is no shortage of steam & spice. They are memorable & here, they also help heal these characters. This is such an enjoyable series & I am so excited for the next book where we get Dane's story (he's a memorable character & I just know his story is going to be epic).
💖 Second Chance
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🏡 Neighbors
🧘🏼♀️ Yoga Instructor FMC
⚓️ Ex-Navy SEAL turned Head of Security MMC
☠️ Touch Her and...
✌🏻 Dual POV w/ Dual Timelines
Seamus has a chance encounter with the girl he met at summer camp a decade prior - the one that got away & that he still thinks about. Now that he has his second chance, he's not going to let her go (and that includes buying the house next door). Naomi (aka Mimi) is trying to keep the past in the past but seeing the boy who both stole & broke her heart has her in a tailspin. Without giving spoilers, Mimi has severe trauma that she tries to hide from Seamus but as their connection sparks back to life, she confesses her truth & Seamus will do anything to give Mimi the peace she deserves.
Mimi & Seamus have that grumpy x sunshine banter but Seamus goes all in real quick. He is not shy about making it known that Mimi is it for him. The lighthearted moments offset some truly heavy ones, as we learn what happens to Mimi through that dual timeline (tho that chapter can be skipped without missing context) & how her experience has impacted her today. Seamus is protective, a little controlling but also very emotionally attuned to Mimi. His patience & understanding is exactly what she needs. I really appreciated the care Berlin Wick took with these characters.
And just like the previous books, there is no shortage of steam & spice. They are memorable & here, they also help heal these characters. This is such an enjoyable series & I am so excited for the next book where we get Dane's story (he's a memorable character & I just know his story is going to be epic).
💖 Second Chance
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🏡 Neighbors
🧘🏼♀️ Yoga Instructor FMC
⚓️ Ex-Navy SEAL turned Head of Security MMC
☠️ Touch Her and...
✌🏻 Dual POV w/ Dual Timelines
June 7, 2025
This book was addictive from start to finish.
Before you read, Please make sure you check the trigger warnings.
So I ate this book up. I literally read this in 24 hours; that's how captivating this novel was.
Seamus and Mimi's story is told in a dual timeline, which I thought was wonderfully intertwined within the novel. Some chapters started with a flashback to the decade before when they met, and others started in the present. The chapters that started with the flashbacks were relevant to what was coming in the present and I think that allowed for the author to show growth and depth of these 2 characters.
It is clear from the beginning that there is a connection between these two, and while I would in no way shape or form say there was an insta-lust/love part to their story, you kind of just knew that they were going to be endgame.
Seamus—the grumpy MMC, who was not always that way, but life experiences and his time in the Navy changed him. However, when he runs back into Mimi a decade later, a switch gets flipped, and he morphs into an obsessive slightly stalkerish MMC and I am here for all of it.
Mimi-— Her traumatic past has molded her into the person we see in the decade that passes between them and while she has seemingly moved forward, she is still very much stuck in the past because of the intense trauma she has been dealing with. I think that the character development for her was handled with love and care and was authentic to what someone with similar experiences may feel about themselves and how they are perceived.
The two of them together were perfect for each other. She brought him out of his shell and he treated her as though she wasn't broken or fragile after learning of her past.
The only thing I would have wanted more of is what happened to Shane and Wes. I was hoping that at least with as close as Mimi and Shane were, he would have at least been seen or talked to within this novel. I really wish we got more of them, but maybe that is a novel for another time.
I am really glad that I found this author and I look forward to reading her backlog and anything new that she brings to the book world.
Thank you Berlin Wick and Luna Literary for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Tropes:
🧘🏻♀️ Second Chance
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
🧘🏻♀️ Neighbors to Lovers
🖤 Ex-NavySeal MMC
🧘🏻♀️ Yoga Instructor FMC
🖤 Touch her and Die
🧘🏻♀️ Past/Present timeline
🖤 Dual POV
Micro Tropes
🧘🏻♀️ Sex Club
🖤 Public display of Tantric Massage
🧘🏻♀️ He comes in his pants
🖤 Hand necklace for her…and him.
🧘🏻♀️ Voyeurism
Before you read, Please make sure you check the trigger warnings.
So I ate this book up. I literally read this in 24 hours; that's how captivating this novel was.
Seamus and Mimi's story is told in a dual timeline, which I thought was wonderfully intertwined within the novel. Some chapters started with a flashback to the decade before when they met, and others started in the present. The chapters that started with the flashbacks were relevant to what was coming in the present and I think that allowed for the author to show growth and depth of these 2 characters.
It is clear from the beginning that there is a connection between these two, and while I would in no way shape or form say there was an insta-lust/love part to their story, you kind of just knew that they were going to be endgame.
Seamus—the grumpy MMC, who was not always that way, but life experiences and his time in the Navy changed him. However, when he runs back into Mimi a decade later, a switch gets flipped, and he morphs into an obsessive slightly stalkerish MMC and I am here for all of it.
Mimi-— Her traumatic past has molded her into the person we see in the decade that passes between them and while she has seemingly moved forward, she is still very much stuck in the past because of the intense trauma she has been dealing with. I think that the character development for her was handled with love and care and was authentic to what someone with similar experiences may feel about themselves and how they are perceived.
The two of them together were perfect for each other. She brought him out of his shell and he treated her as though she wasn't broken or fragile after learning of her past.
The only thing I would have wanted more of is what happened to Shane and Wes. I was hoping that at least with as close as Mimi and Shane were, he would have at least been seen or talked to within this novel. I really wish we got more of them, but maybe that is a novel for another time.
I am really glad that I found this author and I look forward to reading her backlog and anything new that she brings to the book world.
Thank you Berlin Wick and Luna Literary for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Tropes:
🧘🏻♀️ Second Chance
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
🧘🏻♀️ Neighbors to Lovers
🖤 Ex-NavySeal MMC
🧘🏻♀️ Yoga Instructor FMC
🖤 Touch her and Die
🧘🏻♀️ Past/Present timeline
🖤 Dual POV
Micro Tropes
🧘🏻♀️ Sex Club
🖤 Public display of Tantric Massage
🧘🏻♀️ He comes in his pants
🖤 Hand necklace for her…and him.
🧘🏻♀️ Voyeurism
June 3, 2025
Although it's the third book in the Balance of Power series, you can read it on its own. However, it's made even better by the small Easter eggs you'll find if you've read the prior two. Berlin skillfully gave The Games We Play its own place to shine while bringing in the series connection.
Seamus runs across the girl he met at summer camp ten years ago—the one who escaped and whom he still thinks about—by chance. He's determined not to let her leave now that he has a second shot, even if it means purchasing the property next door. Despite her best efforts to put the past behind her, Naomi (also known as Mimi) is inconsolable after meeting the boy who both stole and crushed her heart. Without giving anything away, Mimi has experienced terrible pain that she attempts to conceal from Seamus. However, when their relationship blossoms again, she tells him the truth, and Seamus will stop at nothing to provide Mimi with the tranquility she so well deserves.
It was all in their banter. Emotional, humorous, and sharp. And I was totally on board when Seamus' "Rambo" side out to defend MiMi! There was no denying their connection, and Berlin Wick did a fantastic job of capturing their dynamic.
Because this story is told in both past and present tense, you may truly come to know the characters well. Berlin Wick did a fantastic job of making these characters come to life and weaving together the timelines. It is heartbreaking, this narrative. You keep flipping the pages and wanting more because it's such an emotional and private rollercoaster.
This book contains significant trigger warnings. However, Berlin, wonderful as she is, demonstrates that even those with SA triggers can appreciate and safely enjoy this book. At the beginning of the chapter where they appear, initiating events are noted along with a connection to the subsequent chapter, which proved to be quite helpful.
Seamus runs across the girl he met at summer camp ten years ago—the one who escaped and whom he still thinks about—by chance. He's determined not to let her leave now that he has a second shot, even if it means purchasing the property next door. Despite her best efforts to put the past behind her, Naomi (also known as Mimi) is inconsolable after meeting the boy who both stole and crushed her heart. Without giving anything away, Mimi has experienced terrible pain that she attempts to conceal from Seamus. However, when their relationship blossoms again, she tells him the truth, and Seamus will stop at nothing to provide Mimi with the tranquility she so well deserves.
It was all in their banter. Emotional, humorous, and sharp. And I was totally on board when Seamus' "Rambo" side out to defend MiMi! There was no denying their connection, and Berlin Wick did a fantastic job of capturing their dynamic.
Because this story is told in both past and present tense, you may truly come to know the characters well. Berlin Wick did a fantastic job of making these characters come to life and weaving together the timelines. It is heartbreaking, this narrative. You keep flipping the pages and wanting more because it's such an emotional and private rollercoaster.
This book contains significant trigger warnings. However, Berlin, wonderful as she is, demonstrates that even those with SA triggers can appreciate and safely enjoy this book. At the beginning of the chapter where they appear, initiating events are noted along with a connection to the subsequent chapter, which proved to be quite helpful.
June 5, 2025
Seamus and Naomi 🥹😍❤️ This book was extremely beautiful and brilliant! Berlin, your writing has kept me hooked since I read Where We Break, and it continues to do so. This book made me feel so many emotions, happiness, hope, anger, sadness, understanding, and excitement. I blushed, giggled, fanned myself, and gasped! Thank you so much for this ARC 🥹😍🫂❤️ You've done brilliantly with these two, too ❤️
Seamus Matthews 😌 Tall, handsome, grumpy, intelligent, obsessed with Mimi since he was 17, protective, possessive, ex-navy seal, morally grey, resourceful, rich, kinky, sunshine for her and will never miss a chance to prove to her that he loved her then and always will. The way he ran after Mimi at the end of WWB had me 🥹 He never thought he'd see her again after the summer that changed their lives forever. He'll do absolutely anything and everything to make her his. Forever this time. So what does he do? He stalks her 😏 buys the house next door to her! 😂❤️✋️ With his morning coffee, he gets front row seats to the show of his life and has the women he never wants to lose again, safe in his arms and sight 🤭
Naomi Massumi 😍 Beautiful, intelligent, sunshine, brave, successful, intriguing, traumatized, adventurous, kinky, can't forget the one man who made her feel alive and helped her through her life even though they were apart 🥹 Naomi is scouting Afterburn on their opening night as it's the perfect space for her to offer her yoga and massage classes. What she never expected was Seamus to identify her within the first 30 seconds. This time, she's feistier and even more sassy. She's a brat 😌 and knows it drives him crazy! I loved her character so much. I could identify with her in so many ways, and I was incredibly proud of her for chasing herself and her well-deserved hea 🥹❤️🫂
Seamus Matthews 😌 Tall, handsome, grumpy, intelligent, obsessed with Mimi since he was 17, protective, possessive, ex-navy seal, morally grey, resourceful, rich, kinky, sunshine for her and will never miss a chance to prove to her that he loved her then and always will. The way he ran after Mimi at the end of WWB had me 🥹 He never thought he'd see her again after the summer that changed their lives forever. He'll do absolutely anything and everything to make her his. Forever this time. So what does he do? He stalks her 😏 buys the house next door to her! 😂❤️✋️ With his morning coffee, he gets front row seats to the show of his life and has the women he never wants to lose again, safe in his arms and sight 🤭
Naomi Massumi 😍 Beautiful, intelligent, sunshine, brave, successful, intriguing, traumatized, adventurous, kinky, can't forget the one man who made her feel alive and helped her through her life even though they were apart 🥹 Naomi is scouting Afterburn on their opening night as it's the perfect space for her to offer her yoga and massage classes. What she never expected was Seamus to identify her within the first 30 seconds. This time, she's feistier and even more sassy. She's a brat 😌 and knows it drives him crazy! I loved her character so much. I could identify with her in so many ways, and I was incredibly proud of her for chasing herself and her well-deserved hea 🥹❤️🫂
June 6, 2025
This second-chance romance is a deeply emotional journey told in dual timelines and dual points of view, making it even more immersive. Seamus and Mimi’s love story begins at summer camp, where they spend two unforgettable weeks together—young, inseparable, and utterly enamored. But tragedy intervenes, pulling them apart before they have a chance to see where their love could lead.
Fast-forward 10 years, and fate throws them back together at the exclusive, provocative club where Mimi is planning to teach and Seamus works security. Their reunion is electric, filled with longing and unspoken words, but Seamus is determined—he’s not going to let her slip away again. He takes things a step further, moving in nearby, keeping a watchful eye on her in a way that toes the line between protective and obsessive, but always with the intent of making sure she’s safe. And for the first time in a long time, Mimi actually feels safe.
She’s struggled with intimacy for years, haunted by wounds she’s never fully healed from—but Seamus is the exception. He’s the only one who breaks past her defenses, the only one she trusts enough to let in. As past and present intertwine, readers witness the devastating heartbreak that tore them apart and the intense, angsty push-and-pull of their rekindled connection.
With dual POV, the reader gets inside both Seamus and Mimi’s minds, feeling the raw emotions from both perspectives. This one doesn’t hold back, tackling difficult themes with unflinching honesty—so pay attention to the trigger warnings—but at its core, it's a poignant, beautifully written tale of lost love, second chances, and the hope of finding healing in the arms of the one who was never truly forgotten. If you crave a romance that grips your heart and refuses to let go, this one is a must-read.
A huge thank you to Berlin Wick and the Luna Literary for the early copy!
Fast-forward 10 years, and fate throws them back together at the exclusive, provocative club where Mimi is planning to teach and Seamus works security. Their reunion is electric, filled with longing and unspoken words, but Seamus is determined—he’s not going to let her slip away again. He takes things a step further, moving in nearby, keeping a watchful eye on her in a way that toes the line between protective and obsessive, but always with the intent of making sure she’s safe. And for the first time in a long time, Mimi actually feels safe.
She’s struggled with intimacy for years, haunted by wounds she’s never fully healed from—but Seamus is the exception. He’s the only one who breaks past her defenses, the only one she trusts enough to let in. As past and present intertwine, readers witness the devastating heartbreak that tore them apart and the intense, angsty push-and-pull of their rekindled connection.
With dual POV, the reader gets inside both Seamus and Mimi’s minds, feeling the raw emotions from both perspectives. This one doesn’t hold back, tackling difficult themes with unflinching honesty—so pay attention to the trigger warnings—but at its core, it's a poignant, beautifully written tale of lost love, second chances, and the hope of finding healing in the arms of the one who was never truly forgotten. If you crave a romance that grips your heart and refuses to let go, this one is a must-read.
A huge thank you to Berlin Wick and the Luna Literary for the early copy!
June 7, 2025
I have been looking forward to this release since the teaser in the second book!!!
"I’m not sure if it’s the knowledge that Mimi will have her hands scouring every inch of my body or if it’s because I’ll be naked in front of…a lot of people. Close friends included.
This is a goddamn fucking dumpster fire, but I’m all in."
Gah! This is so much of Seamus's personality in this quote. He is a hard, emotionally closed off man to the world. His friends included only get the tip of the iceberg (save for Mason). But he is a completely different man for Mimi. He wears his heart on his sleeve only for her. Absolutely OTT obsessed including buying her neighbors house to get close to her. And with the quote above. He decides to be her partner for a Tantric Massage instruction course she gives! And in front of his close friends and co-workers!! It's so completely out of his norm and comfort zone. But the man will do literally ANYTHING for her!
Okay, enough of my gushing over Seamus! This story is presented in dual timelines and done very well. As these two previously met at a summer camp, you need the background as to what they went through and how they got to where they are today. It's an emotional and tragic ride for sure. I felt all the feels and was so emotionally invested. Experiencing the journey of these two coming back together was set up for the readers perfectly!
Ms. Wick pulls yet another beautiful story together with these two characters. It's a binge-worthy, spicy, and emotional read. Literally, everything I need as a reader 🩷
You all MUST keep an eye on this indie author. I guarantee she is going big places with her well thought and engaging writing her first 3 stories have shown. For reference, I would say she gives spicier Colleen Hoover vibes with a kick of taboo. I can't wait to see what she has next for us!
"I’m not sure if it’s the knowledge that Mimi will have her hands scouring every inch of my body or if it’s because I’ll be naked in front of…a lot of people. Close friends included.
This is a goddamn fucking dumpster fire, but I’m all in."
Gah! This is so much of Seamus's personality in this quote. He is a hard, emotionally closed off man to the world. His friends included only get the tip of the iceberg (save for Mason). But he is a completely different man for Mimi. He wears his heart on his sleeve only for her. Absolutely OTT obsessed including buying her neighbors house to get close to her. And with the quote above. He decides to be her partner for a Tantric Massage instruction course she gives! And in front of his close friends and co-workers!! It's so completely out of his norm and comfort zone. But the man will do literally ANYTHING for her!
Okay, enough of my gushing over Seamus! This story is presented in dual timelines and done very well. As these two previously met at a summer camp, you need the background as to what they went through and how they got to where they are today. It's an emotional and tragic ride for sure. I felt all the feels and was so emotionally invested. Experiencing the journey of these two coming back together was set up for the readers perfectly!
Ms. Wick pulls yet another beautiful story together with these two characters. It's a binge-worthy, spicy, and emotional read. Literally, everything I need as a reader 🩷
You all MUST keep an eye on this indie author. I guarantee she is going big places with her well thought and engaging writing her first 3 stories have shown. For reference, I would say she gives spicier Colleen Hoover vibes with a kick of taboo. I can't wait to see what she has next for us!
December 2, 2025
The Games We Play is the third installment in the Balance of Power series and it completely destroyed me in the best way possible. While this is a standalone I honestly promise you would love the first two books and they provide so much context.
Please do check the trigger warnings before diving in as this book deals with some very heavy themes.
We saw hints of this story towards the end of the second book where Seamus was running after a lady and avoiding his neighbor. This book finally tells us everything.
The story opens seventeen years ago when Seamus and Mimi start their journey as teenagers at summer camp. Two weeks changed their lives forever. They fell in love but right after he disappeared. Mimi was left heartbroken and hating him for just leaving her.
Ten years later fate intervenes when they run into each other at a sex club. The minute Seamus sees Mimi he is determined to win back the woman he has been searching for the last ten years. Mimi however is not interested in opening up old wounds. Her hate for him is still strong. Mimi is not the same girl from ten years ago. She has gone through unspeakable trauma and pain. Seeing her trying to muscle through the past truly made my heart ache for her.
Will she give him a chance to win her back?
This book dives deep into the emotional turmoil of both characters and their journey to healing. It is messy and heartbreaking and painful but healing all at the same time.
Tropes:
Second Chance Romance
Neighbors To Lovers
Grumpy x Sunshine
Ex Navy Seal MMC
Yoga Instructor FMC
Past Trauma
Touch Her and Die
Please do check the trigger warnings before diving in as this book deals with some very heavy themes.
We saw hints of this story towards the end of the second book where Seamus was running after a lady and avoiding his neighbor. This book finally tells us everything.
The story opens seventeen years ago when Seamus and Mimi start their journey as teenagers at summer camp. Two weeks changed their lives forever. They fell in love but right after he disappeared. Mimi was left heartbroken and hating him for just leaving her.
Ten years later fate intervenes when they run into each other at a sex club. The minute Seamus sees Mimi he is determined to win back the woman he has been searching for the last ten years. Mimi however is not interested in opening up old wounds. Her hate for him is still strong. Mimi is not the same girl from ten years ago. She has gone through unspeakable trauma and pain. Seeing her trying to muscle through the past truly made my heart ache for her.
Will she give him a chance to win her back?
This book dives deep into the emotional turmoil of both characters and their journey to healing. It is messy and heartbreaking and painful but healing all at the same time.
Tropes:
Second Chance Romance
Neighbors To Lovers
Grumpy x Sunshine
Ex Navy Seal MMC
Yoga Instructor FMC
Past Trauma
Touch Her and Die
May 29, 2025
🌌🪖🏕🧘♀️🫶❤️ ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ɢᴀᴍᴇs ᴡᴇ ᴘʟᴀʏ ʙʏ ʙᴇʀʟɪɴ ᴡɪᴄᴋ ❤️🫶🧘♀️🏕🪖🌌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
This was my first book by Berlin Wick and it absolutely won’t be my last. From the first page, I was hooked by the tension, angst, romance, and spice that poured from every chapter. Seamus and MiMi felt fated from their very first electric meeting, and when they saw each other again a decade later, that same spark was still there maybe even stronger.
Their banter was everything. Sharp, witty, and full of emotion. And when the “Rambo” side of Seamus came out to protect MiMi....I was all in!!! Their connection was undeniable, and Berlin Wick did an incredible job bringing their dynamic to life.
This book tackles some heavy themes, and while one of those topics is handled directly on-page, it’s done with such care and sensitivity. Chapter 33 💔 absolutely wrecked me, it was heartbreaking but beautifully written, and it felt like a necessary moment of reckoning and healing for Seamus and MiMi.
I’m already looking forward to whatever Berlin writes next, and I won’t hesitate to add it straight to my TBR. If you’re looking for a romance packed with emotion, heat, and heart—this is it.
What To Expect:
🥰 Second Chance
😠 Grumpy/Sunshine 🌞
🔪 Touch Her and Die
🫶 Past and Present Timelines
#BerlinWick
#TheGamesWePlay #ARCReview #BookReview
#BalanceOfPowerSeries
#LivingMyBestBookishLife #SecondChanceRomance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
This was my first book by Berlin Wick and it absolutely won’t be my last. From the first page, I was hooked by the tension, angst, romance, and spice that poured from every chapter. Seamus and MiMi felt fated from their very first electric meeting, and when they saw each other again a decade later, that same spark was still there maybe even stronger.
Their banter was everything. Sharp, witty, and full of emotion. And when the “Rambo” side of Seamus came out to protect MiMi....I was all in!!! Their connection was undeniable, and Berlin Wick did an incredible job bringing their dynamic to life.
This book tackles some heavy themes, and while one of those topics is handled directly on-page, it’s done with such care and sensitivity. Chapter 33 💔 absolutely wrecked me, it was heartbreaking but beautifully written, and it felt like a necessary moment of reckoning and healing for Seamus and MiMi.
I’m already looking forward to whatever Berlin writes next, and I won’t hesitate to add it straight to my TBR. If you’re looking for a romance packed with emotion, heat, and heart—this is it.
What To Expect:
🥰 Second Chance
😠 Grumpy/Sunshine 🌞
🔪 Touch Her and Die
🫶 Past and Present Timelines
#BerlinWick
#TheGamesWePlay #ARCReview #BookReview
#BalanceOfPowerSeries
#LivingMyBestBookishLife #SecondChanceRomance
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