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The Package Deal #2
Pass Interference: The Package Deal, Book 2
Aidan
Ten years. It's been ten years since Marcus Monroe walked out of my life. Now he's back as my brother's #1 wide receiver. And he wants me back. We'll see about that.
Marcus
Ten years. It's been ten years since I made the biggest mistake of my life. I let him go, and I regret it every single day. I've been traded to the Portland Pirates, and his brother is my new quarterback. I'll stop at nothing to get him back. This time, there will be no interference.
Find out how Aidan and Marcus find their way back to each other in Pass Interference, Book 2 of the Package Deal series.
Contains mature themes.
Ten years. It's been ten years since Marcus Monroe walked out of my life. Now he's back as my brother's #1 wide receiver. And he wants me back. We'll see about that.
Marcus
Ten years. It's been ten years since I made the biggest mistake of my life. I let him go, and I regret it every single day. I've been traded to the Portland Pirates, and his brother is my new quarterback. I'll stop at nothing to get him back. This time, there will be no interference.
Find out how Aidan and Marcus find their way back to each other in Pass Interference, Book 2 of the Package Deal series.
Contains mature themes.
Audible Audio
Published September 17, 2024
176 people are currently reading
289 people want to read
About the author
Rheland Richmond
45 books211 followersWrites Omegaverse as Skye R. Richmond.
Rheland is the ultimate bookworm, TV enthusiast, popcorn and ice cream connoisseur (Sweet and Salt is the best), and lover of all things cute and girly! From a young age, Rheland has been entranced by the magic of storytelling, diving headfirst into worlds of romance (before she was allowed to), and mysteries.
When she's not reading the latest romance novel or binge-watching her favorite TV shows (no horror, please!), you can find her writing stories of found families and forevers for her men.
Rheland is a hopeless romantic through and through with dreams of happily ever afters and swoon-worthy moments.
Rheland invites you to join her on a journey of laughter, love, and happily ever afters for her characters. So cozy up with a mug of cocoa or a glass of wine and prepare to fall head over heels for Rheland's men.
Rheland would love to hear from her readers and learn more about you. So if you get a chance... please get in touch.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkyeRRichmond/
Twitter: @RhelandRichmond
Instagram: @rhelandrichmondmm
Newsletter: https://www.rhelandrichmond.com/newsl...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rhela...
Rheland is the ultimate bookworm, TV enthusiast, popcorn and ice cream connoisseur (Sweet and Salt is the best), and lover of all things cute and girly! From a young age, Rheland has been entranced by the magic of storytelling, diving headfirst into worlds of romance (before she was allowed to), and mysteries.
When she's not reading the latest romance novel or binge-watching her favorite TV shows (no horror, please!), you can find her writing stories of found families and forevers for her men.
Rheland is a hopeless romantic through and through with dreams of happily ever afters and swoon-worthy moments.
Rheland invites you to join her on a journey of laughter, love, and happily ever afters for her characters. So cozy up with a mug of cocoa or a glass of wine and prepare to fall head over heels for Rheland's men.
Rheland would love to hear from her readers and learn more about you. So if you get a chance... please get in touch.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkyeRRichmond/
Twitter: @RhelandRichmond
Instagram: @rhelandrichmondmm
Newsletter: https://www.rhelandrichmond.com/newsl...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rhela...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
February 6, 2025
You ever been so disappointed that you want to write the most scathing review ever but the book was basically an emotional vampire that drained you of your will to live so you don't even have energy to do a review justice?
Yeah. That is me with this book.
This book had the potential to be good. Had the grovel even existed, this would have been one for the ages.
There's no grovel, guys. Marcus dumped his college sweetheart of three years to be in the NFL. Dumped is sanitizing what happened, actually.
He ghosted Aiden. For a DECADE. Fucked off with his NFL contract, got married, had a baby, marriage fell apart THEN was like oh. I wonder how my old haunt is doing. I should look him up. Matter of fact, I should just GET TRADED to the city where he lives because I've never gotten over him.
Um. Okay.
Then we have Aiden. Got ghosted, fell into a depression so dark and so deep he almost dropped out of law school, managed to hold onto that by a thread, became an attorney, and a decade later is still so insanely in love with his dick of an ex that he actively yearns for him. Wonders what could have been.
Going good so far, right? Yep. Right until Marcus walks in on a party he knows Aiden will be at. And I was internally screaming 'Yesssss, Aiden, now's your chance to give that mf a piece of your mind before you inevitably give in because you're still a sad sack'.
And our Aiden......LETS this man hold him that very first conversation. I want to give him his tens for storming off to another room first, but it's really hard to cheer for that given he let him wrap his arms around him and kiss on him shortly thereafter.
Then he gets pissy when the guy says he missed him every single day.
Which, fair. Found the balls to ask him if every single day included the day he got married and the one he had his son.
To which Marcus said —Yes. 💀💀💀
Honestly defund men, because what is this😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
And that's what gave Aiden the strength to basically be like 'thanks for the closure, bb, next time we meet, I don't know you and you don't know me'
Which, AGAIN, would be commendable if the same Aiden wasn't giggling like a mf on nitrous oxide after Marcus texts him the next day.
How are you giggling and twirling your hair with someone whose number you saved under 'Heartbreaker'?
STAND THE FUCK UP. Jesus did not die on the cross for any of this.
Giving all spurned people a bad name.
It gets worse. Not only has Aiden not had sex in the decade since Marcus left, he agrees to unprotected sex with this motherfucker.
Unprotected sex. With someone he's not seen in a decade. Who ghosted him. Got married. And is now back haunting him like an ancestral ghost with nothing better to do.
That was the moment I realized we need to be more petty as a society because we are letting ourselves down.
I'd have had that man tested for all known STDs(those that have been around for decades and those still in development), minor communicable diseases, childhood killer diseases, gum disease, gall bladder infections, tropical diseases, avian flu, foot and mouth disease AND diseases that have not had outbreaks in humans since the ice age.
Get your lick back SOMEHOW.
I'd tell the doctors, if you have a testing algorithm for it, he's getting tested for it. Heck, give him a blood transfusion.
He'd come out of that hospital looking like a pin cushion.
And then I'd be like - maybe we need to hit pause on the sex stuff and just go back to the basics. Get to know each other anew, you know. It's been a decade. Why rush?
Anyway that was the moment my mind glazed over in relation to this book. I listened to the audiobook but I could literally feel my ears rejecting the soundwaves as they tried to penetrate.
If only Aiden had such stringent standards for things trying to penetrate him.
The rest of the book was them acting like fools in love. To which, yes. Very much fools.
And you know what? I don't even blame Marcus. Why wouldn't you go back to your first love who loves you with everything in him that is capable of love?
I blame Aiden. I'm standing here on a soapbox and saying: Maybe let's blame victims sometimes because WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS?! Why would you let this man back in your life AND YOUR BODY with no sense of self-preservation whatsoever?
And this is where I'm glad people tend to have a committee of friends who were around for the initial fallout and are able to remind you what your disgrace looked like because Aiden is what happens when you keep shit to yourself so there's no one to shame you when you slink back to your oppressor.
Maybe sometimes, SAY NO TO LOVE!
Ew, Aiden.
Yeah. That is me with this book.
This book had the potential to be good. Had the grovel even existed, this would have been one for the ages.
There's no grovel, guys. Marcus dumped his college sweetheart of three years to be in the NFL. Dumped is sanitizing what happened, actually.
He ghosted Aiden. For a DECADE. Fucked off with his NFL contract, got married, had a baby, marriage fell apart THEN was like oh. I wonder how my old haunt is doing. I should look him up. Matter of fact, I should just GET TRADED to the city where he lives because I've never gotten over him.
Um. Okay.
Then we have Aiden. Got ghosted, fell into a depression so dark and so deep he almost dropped out of law school, managed to hold onto that by a thread, became an attorney, and a decade later is still so insanely in love with his dick of an ex that he actively yearns for him. Wonders what could have been.
Going good so far, right? Yep. Right until Marcus walks in on a party he knows Aiden will be at. And I was internally screaming 'Yesssss, Aiden, now's your chance to give that mf a piece of your mind before you inevitably give in because you're still a sad sack'.
And our Aiden......LETS this man hold him that very first conversation. I want to give him his tens for storming off to another room first, but it's really hard to cheer for that given he let him wrap his arms around him and kiss on him shortly thereafter.
Then he gets pissy when the guy says he missed him every single day.
Which, fair. Found the balls to ask him if every single day included the day he got married and the one he had his son.
To which Marcus said —Yes. 💀💀💀
Honestly defund men, because what is this😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
And that's what gave Aiden the strength to basically be like 'thanks for the closure, bb, next time we meet, I don't know you and you don't know me'
Which, AGAIN, would be commendable if the same Aiden wasn't giggling like a mf on nitrous oxide after Marcus texts him the next day.
How are you giggling and twirling your hair with someone whose number you saved under 'Heartbreaker'?
STAND THE FUCK UP. Jesus did not die on the cross for any of this.
Giving all spurned people a bad name.
It gets worse. Not only has Aiden not had sex in the decade since Marcus left, he agrees to unprotected sex with this motherfucker.
Unprotected sex. With someone he's not seen in a decade. Who ghosted him. Got married. And is now back haunting him like an ancestral ghost with nothing better to do.
That was the moment I realized we need to be more petty as a society because we are letting ourselves down.
I'd have had that man tested for all known STDs(those that have been around for decades and those still in development), minor communicable diseases, childhood killer diseases, gum disease, gall bladder infections, tropical diseases, avian flu, foot and mouth disease AND diseases that have not had outbreaks in humans since the ice age.
Get your lick back SOMEHOW.
I'd tell the doctors, if you have a testing algorithm for it, he's getting tested for it. Heck, give him a blood transfusion.
He'd come out of that hospital looking like a pin cushion.
And then I'd be like - maybe we need to hit pause on the sex stuff and just go back to the basics. Get to know each other anew, you know. It's been a decade. Why rush?
Anyway that was the moment my mind glazed over in relation to this book. I listened to the audiobook but I could literally feel my ears rejecting the soundwaves as they tried to penetrate.
If only Aiden had such stringent standards for things trying to penetrate him.
The rest of the book was them acting like fools in love. To which, yes. Very much fools.
And you know what? I don't even blame Marcus. Why wouldn't you go back to your first love who loves you with everything in him that is capable of love?
I blame Aiden. I'm standing here on a soapbox and saying: Maybe let's blame victims sometimes because WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS?! Why would you let this man back in your life AND YOUR BODY with no sense of self-preservation whatsoever?
And this is where I'm glad people tend to have a committee of friends who were around for the initial fallout and are able to remind you what your disgrace looked like because Aiden is what happens when you keep shit to yourself so there's no one to shame you when you slink back to your oppressor.
Maybe sometimes, SAY NO TO LOVE!
Ew, Aiden.
September 8, 2022
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
Marcus and Aidan are true soul mates, who do to circumstances and factors outside their own control are separated for over ten years. Now they have a second chance to finally get their Happily Ever After, which is not as simple as one would want.
Marcus was the reason for their separation and its his groveling and determination that is the focus for their reunification, but Aidan is not as certain about their recoupling. After excessive effort at proving his devotion to Aidan, Marcus and him are finally able to live the life they were meant to.
Pass Interference is a sweet romance that shows not even time can prevent you from following what your heart desires. This was a great story, that made me so happy for the couple and their ability to finally be together.
Marcus and Aidan are true soul mates, who do to circumstances and factors outside their own control are separated for over ten years. Now they have a second chance to finally get their Happily Ever After, which is not as simple as one would want.
Marcus was the reason for their separation and its his groveling and determination that is the focus for their reunification, but Aidan is not as certain about their recoupling. After excessive effort at proving his devotion to Aidan, Marcus and him are finally able to live the life they were meant to.
Pass Interference is a sweet romance that shows not even time can prevent you from following what your heart desires. This was a great story, that made me so happy for the couple and their ability to finally be together.
September 5, 2022
A second-chance, sports romance? Sign me up! And one of the MCs is a parent? I'm swooning.
Well, at least theoretically.
I loved the idea of the story, but it's delivery needs some work.
I didn't connect with the writing style: the prose seemed flat and straightforward, but not in a good way. Every emotion and feeling was stated explicitly; I felt there was no room for the reader to observe the scene and understand the characters through their actions. A lot of the book was a recollection of actions and reactions, all told with pretty much the same sentence structure, which soon got tiring to read.
The further in I was, the more bored I got. And it's not that I loved the first half of the story, but at least there was some sort of conflict there. Once the MCs get back together, there is no conflict, there is no drama, there are no issues to resolve. Things just happen. This is not something remotely interesting for me to read unless I am already invested in the couple. It could work for me if it was a book 3 of a same-couple series, where I just want to spend more time with the characters and I don't really care what they're doing.
I would have loved to see the relationship before the breakup (as in the original relationship that makes it a second-chance romance) developed more on page, especially more discussion of why Marcus left Aiden and why it took him so long to get back in touch with him. Yes, his reasons are mentioned multiple times in the book, but never explored more beyond 'my agent suggested it', 'I regret it'. Again, we're given mere statements of facts and very little emotional exploration, and scarce scenes to show us the MCs actually going through these emotions and not just talking about them.
So I never could quite connect with Marcus's feelings or understand his situation. And I never did understand why it took him two years (from the moment he decided he wanted to get back with Aidan) to actually make any contact with him. Aidan is the love of your life, you know you did him dirty, you want to have a life with him again, but you will stay back and do nothing for another two years? I am not buying that.
I also do not have any idea why the two MCs are in love. I know they are, they keep saying that over and over, I just never saw them fall in love, never saw them explore their feelings beyond 'I love him', 'he broke my heart / I broke his heart'. Why? Why are you in love? What makes the other one special? What do you love about him? What do you two like to do together (other than sex)? I still don't have any answer to these questions.
A lot of the book is reminiscing about the past or thinking about the future, with little focus on the present moment between Aidan and Marcus. And there shouldn't be anything wrong with that, but they keep going back to the same things and having the exact same thoughts about their future, with no variety, no value added. Words upon words of the same sentiment repeated ad nauseam. I would love to shave off a lot of it for actual exploration of their feelings, more interactions between the MCs that show us their love in a meaningful way.
At some point it felt more like an epilogue for Alex and Christian rather than Aidan and Marcus's story. I was told that it's recommended but not essential to have read what's come before. I would argue that to enjoy this story properly, book one is a must. I haven't read it and I expected some cameos of the couple from book one, but 30% of this book is essentially about Alex and Christian getting their HEA. And it was just difficult to keep track of the names of various characters who I'm sure were introduced in book one, to the point I didn't even realize one of the names refers to a dog and not a child 🤷.
I liked that at some point they started to try and reconnect for real, setting aside their physical attraction and trying to bridge the gap of not seeing one another for over 10 years. Though, again, I would have loved to see it happen on page more, them getting to know each other once more, instead of simply being told about it.
Marcus's relationship with Steph is another thing I liked: I'm always happy to see exes being friends after the breakup and being genuinely supportive of one another. And Aidan and Alex always looking out for each other! Loved the brother bond.
That's just not what you said you want to do.
I didn't like: Aidan saying he hasn't been with anyone for around 10 years. Only after amending it to say he hasn't had penetrative sex. No need to explain my eyeroll here.
Circling back to what I thought I would love in this book:
The parenting: this is another relationship where the reader is told over and over how Marcus and Aidan both love Trent, and we never see it! Show me Marcus and Aidan caring for the child, interacting with him beyond hugs for greetings or letting him eat cookies.
The sports: there is no sport in this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Well, at least theoretically.
I loved the idea of the story, but it's delivery needs some work.
I didn't connect with the writing style: the prose seemed flat and straightforward, but not in a good way. Every emotion and feeling was stated explicitly; I felt there was no room for the reader to observe the scene and understand the characters through their actions. A lot of the book was a recollection of actions and reactions, all told with pretty much the same sentence structure, which soon got tiring to read.
The further in I was, the more bored I got. And it's not that I loved the first half of the story, but at least there was some sort of conflict there. Once the MCs get back together, there is no conflict, there is no drama, there are no issues to resolve. Things just happen. This is not something remotely interesting for me to read unless I am already invested in the couple. It could work for me if it was a book 3 of a same-couple series, where I just want to spend more time with the characters and I don't really care what they're doing.
I would have loved to see the relationship before the breakup (as in the original relationship that makes it a second-chance romance) developed more on page, especially more discussion of why Marcus left Aiden and why it took him so long to get back in touch with him. Yes, his reasons are mentioned multiple times in the book, but never explored more beyond 'my agent suggested it', 'I regret it'. Again, we're given mere statements of facts and very little emotional exploration, and scarce scenes to show us the MCs actually going through these emotions and not just talking about them.
So I never could quite connect with Marcus's feelings or understand his situation. And I never did understand why it took him two years (from the moment he decided he wanted to get back with Aidan) to actually make any contact with him. Aidan is the love of your life, you know you did him dirty, you want to have a life with him again, but you will stay back and do nothing for another two years? I am not buying that.
I also do not have any idea why the two MCs are in love. I know they are, they keep saying that over and over, I just never saw them fall in love, never saw them explore their feelings beyond 'I love him', 'he broke my heart / I broke his heart'. Why? Why are you in love? What makes the other one special? What do you love about him? What do you two like to do together (other than sex)? I still don't have any answer to these questions.
A lot of the book is reminiscing about the past or thinking about the future, with little focus on the present moment between Aidan and Marcus. And there shouldn't be anything wrong with that, but they keep going back to the same things and having the exact same thoughts about their future, with no variety, no value added. Words upon words of the same sentiment repeated ad nauseam. I would love to shave off a lot of it for actual exploration of their feelings, more interactions between the MCs that show us their love in a meaningful way.
At some point it felt more like an epilogue for Alex and Christian rather than Aidan and Marcus's story. I was told that it's recommended but not essential to have read what's come before. I would argue that to enjoy this story properly, book one is a must. I haven't read it and I expected some cameos of the couple from book one, but 30% of this book is essentially about Alex and Christian getting their HEA. And it was just difficult to keep track of the names of various characters who I'm sure were introduced in book one, to the point I didn't even realize one of the names refers to a dog and not a child 🤷.
I liked that at some point they started to try and reconnect for real, setting aside their physical attraction and trying to bridge the gap of not seeing one another for over 10 years. Though, again, I would have loved to see it happen on page more, them getting to know each other once more, instead of simply being told about it.
Marcus's relationship with Steph is another thing I liked: I'm always happy to see exes being friends after the breakup and being genuinely supportive of one another. And Aidan and Alex always looking out for each other! Loved the brother bond.
That's just not what you said you want to do.
I didn't like: Aidan saying he hasn't been with anyone for around 10 years. Only after amending it to say he hasn't had penetrative sex. No need to explain my eyeroll here.
Circling back to what I thought I would love in this book:
The parenting: this is another relationship where the reader is told over and over how Marcus and Aidan both love Trent, and we never see it! Show me Marcus and Aidan caring for the child, interacting with him beyond hugs for greetings or letting him eat cookies.
The sports: there is no sport in this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 26, 2022
Pass Interference by Rheland Richmond and Emerson Beckett was all about second chances. This was the second installment in The Package Deal series. The story focused on Aiden and Marcus years after their break-up and the road to their second chance at a happily ever after.
Prior to the focus on the present time events, there's the weird prologues that were divided into various points in time that happened in the past to give the readers some insight to what happened before. I appreciate that a glimpse was provided on past events, but the prologues could've just been one whole thing rather than be divided in the manner it was.
Back to the present, Aiden was still pining after Marcus. Though he was longing for a closure to their relationship after being left years ago, he's not truly over Marcus. For his part, Marcus after the events in his married life decided that he'd do right this time and he'd do his best to win Aiden over and have the happy ending they deserve. He was determined and nothing will stop him from his goal.
Aiden's reaction to trusting again was quite believable though I am side-eyeing the fact that he slept with Marcus just like that after meeting him again after so many years of no communication. Props also to Marcus for being persistent and actually working hard on getting his forgiveness from Aiden. He deserved no less.
I enjoyed the story enough though I wasn't able to connect with the characters. The character development was done nicely and the evolution of the relationship was written alright. The last stretch felt rushed though.
Overall, this would be 3.25 stars out of 5 stars for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
Prior to the focus on the present time events, there's the weird prologues that were divided into various points in time that happened in the past to give the readers some insight to what happened before. I appreciate that a glimpse was provided on past events, but the prologues could've just been one whole thing rather than be divided in the manner it was.
Back to the present, Aiden was still pining after Marcus. Though he was longing for a closure to their relationship after being left years ago, he's not truly over Marcus. For his part, Marcus after the events in his married life decided that he'd do right this time and he'd do his best to win Aiden over and have the happy ending they deserve. He was determined and nothing will stop him from his goal.
Aiden's reaction to trusting again was quite believable though I am side-eyeing the fact that he slept with Marcus just like that after meeting him again after so many years of no communication. Props also to Marcus for being persistent and actually working hard on getting his forgiveness from Aiden. He deserved no less.
I enjoyed the story enough though I wasn't able to connect with the characters. The character development was done nicely and the evolution of the relationship was written alright. The last stretch felt rushed though.
Overall, this would be 3.25 stars out of 5 stars for me.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
August 30, 2022
We meet both Marcus and Aidan in book one, The Quarterback’s Keeper as the brother/agent and the new teammate of Alex, and we get their backstory when Marcus is telling Alex to fight for his man. Marcus and Aidan were college sweethearts planning their life together after graduation before Marcus ghosted Aidan disappeared into the NFL never to be heard from again. 10 years have past but they are still both desperately pining for each other. Marcus, determined for a second chance with Aidan, demands a transfer to Alex’s team knowing Aidan lives in the same city. It’s a sweet story of finding the right person at the wrong time and finally getting your HEA when the timing is finally right. Despite the positives, I wasn’t happy with the speed in which Marcus keeps pushing Aidan into forgiving him despite his many assurances to be patient and give him space. It felt borderline being bullied to forgive him on his own timeline. Aidan should have been allowed more space in my opinion. And he kissed him immediately! WTH?! There was so much hurt and pain between them it just didn’t read as realistic. I enjoy a second chance romance, but there really need to be more out there where the MC who messed up has to truly work to win their man back as I love a relationship driven story. Instead Marcus drowned him in charm, calling him baby and kisses anytime he felt him warming to him. I want more chase, more trust building. I felt like we the reader didn’t get a proper discussion between the MCs of why Marcus did what he did. He did it, he broke both their hearts and they spent 10 years apart. I wanted more. Why wasn’t the decision to ghost part of the prequel chapters? Or Aidan figuring out he’s been dumped? Or Marcus’ conversation with the agent? Is that agent still his agent now? I still have questions. I enjoyed the book but it wasn’t a smash hit for me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2022
"You're it for me, Aidan. I never wanna be without you"
Star Rating 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV Dual
Cliffhanger No
Spice Rating 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
"We were finally in bed together again... and I had ten years of changes to catalogue"
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
This book broke my heart into a million pieces and slowly put it back together again. I hadn't read the first one so I was unsure what to expect coming in, but I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was! This book was emotional and angsty and poetic. I was drawn in from the first prologue (there are 5!) and my soul shattered when Marcus left poor Aidan, it made me dislike him a lot until he redeemed himself with fighting for Aidan with all his being. I love how Alex and Christian were so supportive of them getting together, and their own wedding scene was so cute (Christian's vows were hilarious!), but my favourite part of all was Aidan meeting Trent for the first time, he was going to be such a great stepdad!
I cannot wait for Jackson and Simon's book next, and I am VERY intrigued and hopeful for a book with Cooper and Greg!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Second Chances
❣️ Football
❣️ Single Father
❣️ Angst
❣️ Soulmates
Star Rating 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV Dual
Cliffhanger No
Spice Rating 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
"We were finally in bed together again... and I had ten years of changes to catalogue"
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
This book broke my heart into a million pieces and slowly put it back together again. I hadn't read the first one so I was unsure what to expect coming in, but I was pleasantly surprised at how good it was! This book was emotional and angsty and poetic. I was drawn in from the first prologue (there are 5!) and my soul shattered when Marcus left poor Aidan, it made me dislike him a lot until he redeemed himself with fighting for Aidan with all his being. I love how Alex and Christian were so supportive of them getting together, and their own wedding scene was so cute (Christian's vows were hilarious!), but my favourite part of all was Aidan meeting Trent for the first time, he was going to be such a great stepdad!
I cannot wait for Jackson and Simon's book next, and I am VERY intrigued and hopeful for a book with Cooper and Greg!
Read if you like:
❣️ MM Romance
❣️ Second Chances
❣️ Football
❣️ Single Father
❣️ Angst
❣️ Soulmates
October 28, 2023
3/5 stars
Aiden forgave Marcus way too quickly 😔
Aiden forgave Marcus way too quickly 😔
December 15, 2024
"He was my home. And I'd missed him so fucking much."
After the events of book 1 I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. I mean a shouting match behind closed doors? My nosey brain NEEDED to know the deets. Luckily for me, the first chapter of Pass Interference starts right back at that very scene. But first we are given a prologue which gives us insight into Aiden and Marcus' past. It was bittersweet seeing them so in love knowing where they were now 10 years later. I don't know if I'd be as forgiving as Aiden if the same situation happened to me and he even made Marcus work for it a bit.
The love these two men have for each other can only be described as true. 10 years have gone by, Marcus even has a son with another woman, but in his heart there has only ever been Aiden. Aiden, whom he betrayed and left broken beyond repair. It seemed fitting that these two would ultimately be the ones who put each other back together again.
"He'd always been the light to my dark."
I did think both Aiden and Marcus were stuck in the past a bit. They were college kids when they were together. Naive and innocent almost to the way the world can hurt. Now they're grown adults with successful careers. They've grown up and that means making grown up decisions. Decisions like whether it's a good idea to take a chance at happiness with the man who broke your heart.
I loved seeing Aiden slowly come to trust Marcus. He was a persistent fucker and did his best to prove to Aiden that things would be different this time around. His actions spoke even louder than his words and I was so happy that they finally got their HEA. We also get a little sneak peek at the next book and the first thing I did when I finished was add it to my TBR. Based on my enjoyment of the first 2 in this series I'm guessing that's a safe bet!
After the events of book 1 I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one. I mean a shouting match behind closed doors? My nosey brain NEEDED to know the deets. Luckily for me, the first chapter of Pass Interference starts right back at that very scene. But first we are given a prologue which gives us insight into Aiden and Marcus' past. It was bittersweet seeing them so in love knowing where they were now 10 years later. I don't know if I'd be as forgiving as Aiden if the same situation happened to me and he even made Marcus work for it a bit.
The love these two men have for each other can only be described as true. 10 years have gone by, Marcus even has a son with another woman, but in his heart there has only ever been Aiden. Aiden, whom he betrayed and left broken beyond repair. It seemed fitting that these two would ultimately be the ones who put each other back together again.
"He'd always been the light to my dark."
I did think both Aiden and Marcus were stuck in the past a bit. They were college kids when they were together. Naive and innocent almost to the way the world can hurt. Now they're grown adults with successful careers. They've grown up and that means making grown up decisions. Decisions like whether it's a good idea to take a chance at happiness with the man who broke your heart.
I loved seeing Aiden slowly come to trust Marcus. He was a persistent fucker and did his best to prove to Aiden that things would be different this time around. His actions spoke even louder than his words and I was so happy that they finally got their HEA. We also get a little sneak peek at the next book and the first thing I did when I finished was add it to my TBR. Based on my enjoyment of the first 2 in this series I'm guessing that's a safe bet!
August 28, 2022
Fuck this shit!
Argh, so frustrated and upset with Aidan. How come he could easily forgive Marcus just like that? It was TOO EASY without fucking efforts from Marcus except from his charming smile. It was good to be true but Aidan clearly loved Marcus since after 10 years without Marcus by his side he never did penetrative sex at all, only HJ or BJ.
While I'm not happy with Aidan, I have no respect whatsoever with Marcus and I loathe him for what he did to Aidan. He left Aidan without saying a word to him. The loneliness was eating him alive and he finally succumbed to temptation in the shape of woman name Stephanie. A reporter who relentlessly chasing him and caught him on the most vulnerable situation he was in plus he was dead drunk. He used her to ease the pain, the loneliness, the misery but I think he did enjoy having sex with her and without protection on top of that!
Having sex without protection was one of the shit why I hate Marcus and when he said that after 3 years in unhappy and loveless marriage and she wanted to have more child, it was like a slap on the face to Marcus because I think that's when he realized he wasn't happy at all and couldn't lie to himself anymore. What the actual fuck?? If he really loved Aidan, he didn't need to wait for 3 years to filed for divorce or to her to utter that words for fuck's sake!! If she never spoke her mind to have more child, I think Marcus was still trapped in their marriage.
Argh, so frustrated and upset with Aidan. How come he could easily forgive Marcus just like that? It was TOO EASY without fucking efforts from Marcus except from his charming smile. It was good to be true but Aidan clearly loved Marcus since after 10 years without Marcus by his side he never did penetrative sex at all, only HJ or BJ.
While I'm not happy with Aidan, I have no respect whatsoever with Marcus and I loathe him for what he did to Aidan. He left Aidan without saying a word to him. The loneliness was eating him alive and he finally succumbed to temptation in the shape of woman name Stephanie. A reporter who relentlessly chasing him and caught him on the most vulnerable situation he was in plus he was dead drunk. He used her to ease the pain, the loneliness, the misery but I think he did enjoy having sex with her and without protection on top of that!
Having sex without protection was one of the shit why I hate Marcus and when he said that after 3 years in unhappy and loveless marriage and she wanted to have more child, it was like a slap on the face to Marcus because I think that's when he realized he wasn't happy at all and couldn't lie to himself anymore. What the actual fuck?? If he really loved Aidan, he didn't need to wait for 3 years to filed for divorce or to her to utter that words for fuck's sake!! If she never spoke her mind to have more child, I think Marcus was still trapped in their marriage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2022
This is quite an angsty story of Aidan and Marcus and going down the road of second chances.
I thought Aidans character was very realistic in terms of how you deal with trusting again and he was quite endearing.
Marcus on the other hand I felt lived in a dream world and not quite grasping reality of his own doing. I did admire his persistence though.
I enjoyed this story, it was well paced although I did find the last quarter rushed a little too quickly to a conclusion on their relationship, as their situation was quite complicated. But that’s just personal preference.
I thought Aidans character was very realistic in terms of how you deal with trusting again and he was quite endearing.
Marcus on the other hand I felt lived in a dream world and not quite grasping reality of his own doing. I did admire his persistence though.
I enjoyed this story, it was well paced although I did find the last quarter rushed a little too quickly to a conclusion on their relationship, as their situation was quite complicated. But that’s just personal preference.
August 26, 2022
Marcus has returned to win back the love he lost when he left Aidan. We met Marcus in book one, so it was great to also see a lot more of Alex and Christian! I adore those two! This story is a bit more angsty and I appreciated how realistic of a person Aidan was. He was still hurt and took his time figuring out if he could open up and truly trust Marcus. I loved watching how dedicated and determined Marcus was in getting Aidan to believe in him. Aidan has never stopped loving Marcus and it was sappy, sweet and steamy to see them find their back to each other.
February 11, 2023
This hit my buttons — Marcus and Aiden have spent ten years missing each other after a three year relationship in college.
Marcus ditched Aiden at the advice of his first agent when he got his first NFL contract, tried to fake it and ended up married with a child and then quickly divorced.
Aiden has been trying to put Marcus behind him ever since. Everything is miserably fine until Marcus is traded to the Portland Pirates who Aiden’s brother also plays for
Aiden can run but he can’t hide. Angsty beginning but pretty light overall.
Marcus ditched Aiden at the advice of his first agent when he got his first NFL contract, tried to fake it and ended up married with a child and then quickly divorced.
Aiden has been trying to put Marcus behind him ever since. Everything is miserably fine until Marcus is traded to the Portland Pirates who Aiden’s brother also plays for
Aiden can run but he can’t hide. Angsty beginning but pretty light overall.
December 30, 2024
DNFed the audiobook at 13%: 46 minutes in at Chapter 1, which was actually the 6th chapter of the book - yes, there were 5 prologues, I called time of death. Despite 2 excellent narrators, I couldn’t do it anymore. Perhaps Alexander Cendese narration somehow made it even more painfully obvious how repetitive the writing was and how much it seemed to labor the point of telling us, not showing us. I felt nothing, no connection to these characters. Love of my life, must get him back, can’t face thinking about him, blah, blah, blah. It felt formulaic. Boo.
November 29, 2022
4.25 stars
I’m absolutely adoring this series!! And I love it so much that I need to pace myself😂😂 so I’m going to read something else and come back when I’m in need of a treat😍
I was so so excited to read Marcus and Aiden’s story, I found myself getting excited whenever Aiden would forgive Marcus just that much until they finally got together, so good!
I can’t wait to read the next one but I’m sooo excited for the fourth book!😍😍😍
I’m absolutely adoring this series!! And I love it so much that I need to pace myself😂😂 so I’m going to read something else and come back when I’m in need of a treat😍
I was so so excited to read Marcus and Aiden’s story, I found myself getting excited whenever Aiden would forgive Marcus just that much until they finally got together, so good!
I can’t wait to read the next one but I’m sooo excited for the fourth book!😍😍😍
August 27, 2022
A masterful job of love rekindled. A great team effort by the authors. I’m an avid reader and this book did a lot for me personally as I go through a change in my own life. Thank you. A great read.
Keith Robinson
New Zealand
Keith Robinson
New Zealand
September 5, 2022
First of all, I would like to clarify that there are probably some SPOILERS in the review, so please pay attention to that, because the last thing I want is to ruin the story for anyone.
Having said that, I want to add that it is the first time that it happens to me that I review a book and I give it less than 5 or 4 stars, so it is quite difficult for me to write it, and I do not know how to do it without revealing some details that could be considered as SPOILERS, as I mentioned before.
Pass Interference generated a series of mixed emotions in me, because on the one hand I DID like it, and on the other... Well, let's say NOT SO MUCH. Why I didn't like it comes down to two main reasons: First, I felt it was more of a continuation of the first book in the series (The Quarterback Keeper, this one I did like it). I mean, 60% of the book is about Marcus and Aiden, the rest is about Alex and Christian and their wedding, and while I love that I get to know about their life and that they keep showing up, because it's something that makes them more real, I think it was too much. I mean, we completely read everything about their wedding, it was a central part of this book, and instead we just read in passing about Marcus and Aiden's quick wedding in Las Vegas, like it wasn't important. And although later we have a bonus (apart from the book) where it tells about their wedding, shouldn't it have been the other way around? Because in THIS book I wanted to know more about AIDEN AND MARCUS.
The second reason is: I DON'T UNDERSTAND MARCUS. I don't understand him. I mean, I can understand that he was young when he decided to leave Aiden. That he was confused and misguided by his agent. But to leave such a person after 3 years of dating without even a word? Hurt someone you supposedly love in that way? To me, that's being a coward, no matter what age. But hey, let's go back to him being young and confused. Does that justify letting 10 years go by? And here comes the other thing that I don't understand about him and what BOTHERED ME THE MOST. We see Marcus regretting over and over again for his actions, we see him saying that he misses Aiden, that he still loves him etc etc. Over and over again. But he doesn't do anything to get him back and spends his time flirting and hooking up (in fact, he flirts with another man in front of Alex, Aiden's brother, when he is already in Portland following his plan to win Aiden back. This happens in book 1). But then, in one of those wails, he realizes that he has to start doing something, that he has to stop wasting time, and he decides and swears to himself that he is going to win him back. Then we meet him at a sporting event where he gets drunk and ends up talking to a reporter with whom he has a certain friendship, the same reporter who chapters ago he didn't even want to get close to because he knew she wanted more than an interview. But hey, back to the event. He drunkenly ends up telling her about Aiden, and she ends up taking him to his house due to his drunken state. Next thing we know, they GOT MARRIED. WTH?! Wasn't he sworn that he was going to do whatever he could to get Aiden back just a few page before? He hadn't just confessed to her that he loved someone else? How come he ends up married to her? We don't have a good explanation for why they got married, just that they did, that he tries to make it work but it doesn't, he's still in love with Aiden. Did she take advantage when he was drunk and that's why it turns out that now they also have a son and that's why they end married? Or how the h*ck did they end up together? Because I really don't understand how you tell someone you love another man and next you end up married to her.
And finally, once divorced, do you let more years go by to get your love back? Excuse me, but if I were Aiden, I'd let you wait another ten years.
Sorry, I didn't mean to go on so long, but I needed to get it out of the way. It really bothered me because I love reading and leaving good reviews even if I can't say I love THE book. But I always try to write something positive cause the authors deserve it and it's because of that that writing this review was quite painful to me.
I was given an advanced copyand voluntarily wrote a review.
Having said that, I want to add that it is the first time that it happens to me that I review a book and I give it less than 5 or 4 stars, so it is quite difficult for me to write it, and I do not know how to do it without revealing some details that could be considered as SPOILERS, as I mentioned before.
Pass Interference generated a series of mixed emotions in me, because on the one hand I DID like it, and on the other... Well, let's say NOT SO MUCH. Why I didn't like it comes down to two main reasons: First, I felt it was more of a continuation of the first book in the series (The Quarterback Keeper, this one I did like it). I mean, 60% of the book is about Marcus and Aiden, the rest is about Alex and Christian and their wedding, and while I love that I get to know about their life and that they keep showing up, because it's something that makes them more real, I think it was too much. I mean, we completely read everything about their wedding, it was a central part of this book, and instead we just read in passing about Marcus and Aiden's quick wedding in Las Vegas, like it wasn't important. And although later we have a bonus (apart from the book) where it tells about their wedding, shouldn't it have been the other way around? Because in THIS book I wanted to know more about AIDEN AND MARCUS.
The second reason is: I DON'T UNDERSTAND MARCUS. I don't understand him. I mean, I can understand that he was young when he decided to leave Aiden. That he was confused and misguided by his agent. But to leave such a person after 3 years of dating without even a word? Hurt someone you supposedly love in that way? To me, that's being a coward, no matter what age. But hey, let's go back to him being young and confused. Does that justify letting 10 years go by? And here comes the other thing that I don't understand about him and what BOTHERED ME THE MOST. We see Marcus regretting over and over again for his actions, we see him saying that he misses Aiden, that he still loves him etc etc. Over and over again. But he doesn't do anything to get him back and spends his time flirting and hooking up (in fact, he flirts with another man in front of Alex, Aiden's brother, when he is already in Portland following his plan to win Aiden back. This happens in book 1). But then, in one of those wails, he realizes that he has to start doing something, that he has to stop wasting time, and he decides and swears to himself that he is going to win him back. Then we meet him at a sporting event where he gets drunk and ends up talking to a reporter with whom he has a certain friendship, the same reporter who chapters ago he didn't even want to get close to because he knew she wanted more than an interview. But hey, back to the event. He drunkenly ends up telling her about Aiden, and she ends up taking him to his house due to his drunken state. Next thing we know, they GOT MARRIED. WTH?! Wasn't he sworn that he was going to do whatever he could to get Aiden back just a few page before? He hadn't just confessed to her that he loved someone else? How come he ends up married to her? We don't have a good explanation for why they got married, just that they did, that he tries to make it work but it doesn't, he's still in love with Aiden. Did she take advantage when he was drunk and that's why it turns out that now they also have a son and that's why they end married? Or how the h*ck did they end up together? Because I really don't understand how you tell someone you love another man and next you end up married to her.
And finally, once divorced, do you let more years go by to get your love back? Excuse me, but if I were Aiden, I'd let you wait another ten years.
Sorry, I didn't mean to go on so long, but I needed to get it out of the way. It really bothered me because I love reading and leaving good reviews even if I can't say I love THE book. But I always try to write something positive cause the authors deserve it and it's because of that that writing this review was quite painful to me.
I was given an advanced copyand voluntarily wrote a review.
August 25, 2022
I'm not a super fan of second-chances but this I really liked.
Their relationship do seems real. All the trust issues and the tenacity and perseverance to overcome them, Aidan and Marcus needed all the time they took to became a perfect fit all over again.
I appreciated the 5 prologues, it is an excellent idea to let the reader in their backstory. And I appreciated also that this book starts exactly where we left in the previous one. Perfect!
Maybe Trent calling Aidan Daddy as soon as they met is a little bit rushed, but honestly with kids you never know. And, don't miss the bonus scene, it is awesome.
Can't wait for the next couple!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Their relationship do seems real. All the trust issues and the tenacity and perseverance to overcome them, Aidan and Marcus needed all the time they took to became a perfect fit all over again.
I appreciated the 5 prologues, it is an excellent idea to let the reader in their backstory. And I appreciated also that this book starts exactly where we left in the previous one. Perfect!
Maybe Trent calling Aidan Daddy as soon as they met is a little bit rushed, but honestly with kids you never know. And, don't miss the bonus scene, it is awesome.
Can't wait for the next couple!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 22, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were well formulated and the back story was dealt with in a compassionate manner. It was great to have some finality to the first book with Alex and Christian. Although Marcus and Aiden progressed quickly this was well handled but I did have an issue with Trent calling Aiden Daddy so quickly because that just seemed unrealistic. It was nice to see Steph still being involved even though she was a minor character. Can't wait for the next book in the series
August 24, 2022
Fantastic read!! I am so impressed with the co parenting in this book! I think the authors have done a spectacular job developing the characters and the storyline. Loved everything about Vegas also!
September 29, 2022
Even better than book one!
This book was so good. I love a good second chance story and this one surely was that. Marcus did a really dumb thing that broke his boyfriend’s heart but it also broke his. He’s not going to take any chances this time; he’ll do whatever he needs to do to convince Aidan that he will never break his heart again.
This book gave me all kinds of feels. I think this writing duo must be hitting their stride and I can’t wait to read the next one in this series.
Hurricane Ian has messed up my reading and reviewing so this review isn’t as comprehensive as what I would normally do but this book was really good and I don’t hesitate to recommend it.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
This book was so good. I love a good second chance story and this one surely was that. Marcus did a really dumb thing that broke his boyfriend’s heart but it also broke his. He’s not going to take any chances this time; he’ll do whatever he needs to do to convince Aidan that he will never break his heart again.
This book gave me all kinds of feels. I think this writing duo must be hitting their stride and I can’t wait to read the next one in this series.
Hurricane Ian has messed up my reading and reviewing so this review isn’t as comprehensive as what I would normally do but this book was really good and I don’t hesitate to recommend it.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
August 26, 2022
When we last saw Aidan and Marcus, they were having a turbulent reunion that had Aidan storming away after demanding Marcus stay away from him. This book picks up where The Quarterback Keeper left off with them but first gives us a glimpse into their past. We see where their relationship was after 3 years together, the love and passion they shared and their desire to be together no matter what. Aidan was in law school and Marcus was NFL bound and they were solid. At least until Marcus’ agent gives him some bad advice about coming out and Marcus breaks both his and Aidan’s heart by leaving without a word. We get a further glimpse into their separate pasts as they tried, and failed, to move on from one another.
Ten years after ghosting Aidan, Marcus is now playing on a team with Alex, Aidan’s brother, best friend, and client. Alex and Marcus are good friends, with Marcus helping Christian pull his head out of his behind which results in Christian and Alex reuniting. Following Alex’s concussion, Aidan is furious to see Marcus at Alex’s penthouse. He’d moved to Seattle to get away from Marcus in Portland to save himself the heartbreak of seeing Marcus regularly. Marcus tries apologizing and the two share a steamy kiss, but Aidan insists that it’s the end of things and completely shuts down when Marcus slips and calls him “baby”. Marcus vows to win Aidan back and informs him that he won’t be giving up.
Can Aidan forgive Marcus? Not only did he leave him, but he married a woman and had a child with her. Can Marcus convince Aidan that he has never gotten over him and he will always be his one true love? He may have married a woman, but she never meant to him what Aidan always has and always will. Can Aidan once again put his heart in Marcus’ hands and trust him to not crush it? What does Marcus have to do to convince Aidan that he is his end game and that he wants the future they once dreamed about? Rheland Richmond and Emerson Beckett take our hearts on a painful journey through love, heartbreak, and healing with this second book in the Package Deal series. There is an HEA and no cheating. A beautiful second chance romance with a best friend’s brother.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Rheland Richmond
Emerson Beckett
Ten years after ghosting Aidan, Marcus is now playing on a team with Alex, Aidan’s brother, best friend, and client. Alex and Marcus are good friends, with Marcus helping Christian pull his head out of his behind which results in Christian and Alex reuniting. Following Alex’s concussion, Aidan is furious to see Marcus at Alex’s penthouse. He’d moved to Seattle to get away from Marcus in Portland to save himself the heartbreak of seeing Marcus regularly. Marcus tries apologizing and the two share a steamy kiss, but Aidan insists that it’s the end of things and completely shuts down when Marcus slips and calls him “baby”. Marcus vows to win Aidan back and informs him that he won’t be giving up.
Can Aidan forgive Marcus? Not only did he leave him, but he married a woman and had a child with her. Can Marcus convince Aidan that he has never gotten over him and he will always be his one true love? He may have married a woman, but she never meant to him what Aidan always has and always will. Can Aidan once again put his heart in Marcus’ hands and trust him to not crush it? What does Marcus have to do to convince Aidan that he is his end game and that he wants the future they once dreamed about? Rheland Richmond and Emerson Beckett take our hearts on a painful journey through love, heartbreak, and healing with this second book in the Package Deal series. There is an HEA and no cheating. A beautiful second chance romance with a best friend’s brother.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Rheland Richmond
Emerson Beckett
August 29, 2022
Pass Interference carries on from a scene at the end of the previous book, The Quarterback Keeper, when Aiden and Marcus fight behind closed doors. They were a couple for three years in college until Marcus left suddenly to pursue his career in the NFL, and ten years later Marcus is back to convince Aiden to give him a second chance.
I appreciated the Prologue that took us through different points in the years they were apart and gave us a glimpse of their lives up to the present because it showed that despite the passage of time, neither man had gotten over the other.
I loved Marcus, but it was hard not to be on Aiden’s side and feel for what he had gone through, and I did blame Marcus to some extent for causing that. I especially loved that we got to know both men, that the timeline wasn't rushed, and that Aiden didn't immediately forgive Marcus but made him work for his second chance, which made it all feel real.
This was a great read, sweet and emotional, with heat and had a great ending. I highly recommend this book and also the bonus chapter available at the end. I will be looking out for more from these amazing authors.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
I appreciated the Prologue that took us through different points in the years they were apart and gave us a glimpse of their lives up to the present because it showed that despite the passage of time, neither man had gotten over the other.
I loved Marcus, but it was hard not to be on Aiden’s side and feel for what he had gone through, and I did blame Marcus to some extent for causing that. I especially loved that we got to know both men, that the timeline wasn't rushed, and that Aiden didn't immediately forgive Marcus but made him work for his second chance, which made it all feel real.
This was a great read, sweet and emotional, with heat and had a great ending. I highly recommend this book and also the bonus chapter available at the end. I will be looking out for more from these amazing authors.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
January 29, 2025
Me reading this book:
Oh no. This is too good, things are going to go oh, so, so wrong.
Ah, sad, Aidan. Hugs. Marcus, please die.
Wow. This guy has a lot of nerve. Oh you “miss” Aidan “so much”?! LMAO actions speak far louder than your thoughts, my friend. How’s your son with that woman?!
Oh, Marcus thinks...he...really? REALLY? He’s just...gonna show up? (Not to mention choosing to move TWO THOUSAND MILES away from the very young son he supposedly “loves” so much? This guy’s definition of love is like Vizzini’s definition of “inconceivable” in Princess Bride...!)
The three stars are for the first half, right up until Aidan caves like the caviest caveman to ever cave and becomes a pod person. Until then...
Thank you, Aidan (and authors!), for actually saying and doing what I always hope a hero in your situation will say and do! Finally! A satisfying fuck-off moment. This made all the fury of this second-chance situation worthwhile. Here’s what Aidan said, after Marcus had the audacity to show up unannounced after ten years of ghosting and radio silence: And then, even better, Aidan says, At which point I was cheering so hard! THIS! This is the kind of telling-off this situation deserved! Sigh. Loved it.
So what happened? College students Aidan and Marcus were in love. Very in love. Marcus got an NFL contract, and on his agent’s advice, ghosted Aidan—literally walked away cold, no explanation, no word. For ten years. Nice “love.” Yup. Aidan really needs that guy in his life. #sarcasm
Now, one marriage to a woman and one kid and one divorce later, Marcus decides...it’s time to get Aidan back! Mm hmmm. Just gonna walk in there like he deserves a shot. Based on going no-contact with Aidan for TEN YEARS, without even researching to see if he’s committed to someone else.
This guy is unbelievable. And I was there for that conflict, because Aidan does NOT roll over and forgive him at first re-glance. Aidan, all three stars are for you in the first half! Stand by your chose-not-to-be-your man and make him earn it!
It was all going great. Then, around 50% in, Aidan got a personality transplant and started being all, I can’t wait to get to know your son and ex because they’ll be a big part of our lives...oh, I hope she likes me... 🤮 It’s really GREAT to meet you, woman who bore my lover’s child while he was so “in love” with me... (I mean, yes, the son needs to be part of their lives, but, STFU about the ex). Aidan’s a much, much bigger person than I am. No blame to her, she’s truly a good person. Just. But. NO.
But, Aidan did realize he still wants Marcus, so...get your man, Aidan. Respect for not making it easy on him. At least for the first 40% of the book. The rest I skimmed.
The football and sports agent elements didn’t feel authentic, more generic/glossed over to hide a lack of detailed knowledge, but, whatever. I read for the romance.
HEA. Second-chance romance. Football player–sports agent lawyer. Ten-year separation. Much Other Person drama—both are with others during separation, clarified but never on-page, Marcus with a woman (but no other men), Aidan mainly with a F-buddy friend, BJs and handys only (and for once? I was GLAD he was with someone else! JFC. And yes, Aidan, you did have sex with other people, doesn’t matter that it wasn’t penetrative, stop with that crap!). But no others once they re-meet face to face. Not fully safe, but safe enough for me. Recommended...but mainly for the first half.
I will never forgive Marcus, because I am a petty, vengeful, small-minded person when it comes to treating your supposed Person like utter garbage, but, I enjoyed Aidan and his feisty stance in the first half a lot. Wish he’d held out longer, but, whatevs. Be happy, pod person. Peace out.
Oh no. This is too good, things are going to go oh, so, so wrong.
Ah, sad, Aidan. Hugs. Marcus, please die.
Wow. This guy has a lot of nerve. Oh you “miss” Aidan “so much”?! LMAO actions speak far louder than your thoughts, my friend. How’s your son with that woman?!
Oh, Marcus thinks...he...really? REALLY? He’s just...gonna show up? (Not to mention choosing to move TWO THOUSAND MILES away from the very young son he supposedly “loves” so much? This guy’s definition of love is like Vizzini’s definition of “inconceivable” in Princess Bride...!)
The three stars are for the first half, right up until Aidan caves like the caviest caveman to ever cave and becomes a pod person. Until then...
Thank you, Aidan (and authors!), for actually saying and doing what I always hope a hero in your situation will say and do! Finally! A satisfying fuck-off moment. This made all the fury of this second-chance situation worthwhile. Here’s what Aidan said, after Marcus had the audacity to show up unannounced after ten years of ghosting and radio silence: And then, even better, Aidan says, At which point I was cheering so hard! THIS! This is the kind of telling-off this situation deserved! Sigh. Loved it.
So what happened? College students Aidan and Marcus were in love. Very in love. Marcus got an NFL contract, and on his agent’s advice, ghosted Aidan—literally walked away cold, no explanation, no word. For ten years. Nice “love.” Yup. Aidan really needs that guy in his life. #sarcasm
Now, one marriage to a woman and one kid and one divorce later, Marcus decides...it’s time to get Aidan back! Mm hmmm. Just gonna walk in there like he deserves a shot. Based on going no-contact with Aidan for TEN YEARS, without even researching to see if he’s committed to someone else.
This guy is unbelievable. And I was there for that conflict, because Aidan does NOT roll over and forgive him at first re-glance. Aidan, all three stars are for you in the first half! Stand by your chose-not-to-be-your man and make him earn it!
It was all going great. Then, around 50% in, Aidan got a personality transplant and started being all, I can’t wait to get to know your son and ex because they’ll be a big part of our lives...oh, I hope she likes me... 🤮 It’s really GREAT to meet you, woman who bore my lover’s child while he was so “in love” with me... (I mean, yes, the son needs to be part of their lives, but, STFU about the ex). Aidan’s a much, much bigger person than I am. No blame to her, she’s truly a good person. Just. But. NO.
But, Aidan did realize he still wants Marcus, so...get your man, Aidan. Respect for not making it easy on him. At least for the first 40% of the book. The rest I skimmed.
The football and sports agent elements didn’t feel authentic, more generic/glossed over to hide a lack of detailed knowledge, but, whatever. I read for the romance.
HEA. Second-chance romance. Football player–sports agent lawyer. Ten-year separation. Much Other Person drama—both are with others during separation, clarified but never on-page, Marcus with a woman (but no other men), Aidan mainly with a F-buddy friend, BJs and handys only (and for once? I was GLAD he was with someone else! JFC. And yes, Aidan, you did have sex with other people, doesn’t matter that it wasn’t penetrative, stop with that crap!). But no others once they re-meet face to face. Not fully safe, but safe enough for me. Recommended...but mainly for the first half.
I will never forgive Marcus, because I am a petty, vengeful, small-minded person when it comes to treating your supposed Person like utter garbage, but, I enjoyed Aidan and his feisty stance in the first half a lot. Wish he’d held out longer, but, whatevs. Be happy, pod person. Peace out.
June 9, 2025
Rounding up to three stars.
I liked book one so much. Aiden and Marcus as side characters were really interesting. The set-up for this book was great. This could have been so good, but in this book, they seemed much more two-dimensional. There was so much about this book that drove me crazy. I'll start with the bad things, because there were good things, and I'll put them second so you'll have them in mind when you finish.
Bad:
1. After three years of planning to be together forever, Marcus dumped Aiden with no explanation and completely ghosted him for ten years. Super uncool, but okay, there needs to be some tension, or there's no plot. Both of them were miserable and unable to move on. Then Marcus decided to go for it and get Aiden back. Aiden had been furious and hurt, of course. The way their relationship was mended was not credible, and I pretty much lost all respect for Aiden. Also - unprotected sex with virtually no discussion about whether it would be safe.
2. I almost never say this: too much sex. It was mostly gratuitous and mostly could have been any two men.
3. Repetitive, repetitive, repetitive, repetitive, rep...you get the idea. If I had a dollar for every time a couple was described by others as—or told each other that they were—some version of "soul-mates," I could pay for a trip to Hawaii. It was so over-the-top sweet that it made my teeth ache, and the repetition seriously lessened the impact.
4. There were many things in the book, particularly the last third or so that were described in excruciating detail. I sped up to 1.8 speed.
The good:
1. I normally have a hard time with 2nd chance books, because they usually contain many painful flashback scenes throughout the book. This book front-loaded the first relationship and breakup, which made their relationship much easier to understand and got the painful bit over with.
2. It was nice to see so much of the characters in book one. They were relevant to the plot, and it was great to see how their relationship was progressing.
3. It was very low angst, which I need sometimes. Angst is okay if the book is really well written and it's not just thrown in for drama. I appreciated that she didn't resort to that. Some of the things that very much could have been trouble got resolved, Disney-style.
4. It was fluffy, pleasant, and sweet, so if you want very low angst, you're all set.
If you didn't like this book (#2), don't give up on the series. I just read #3 and it's great!
Audiobook: I usually like Alexander Cendese, but I just don't think he was a good match for this book. JF Harding was fine, but he's usually excellent. I listened on Everand, thank goodness, because if I'd spent an Audible credit on this, I would have been seriously bummed.
I liked book one so much. Aiden and Marcus as side characters were really interesting. The set-up for this book was great. This could have been so good, but in this book, they seemed much more two-dimensional. There was so much about this book that drove me crazy. I'll start with the bad things, because there were good things, and I'll put them second so you'll have them in mind when you finish.
Bad:
1. After three years of planning to be together forever, Marcus dumped Aiden with no explanation and completely ghosted him for ten years. Super uncool, but okay, there needs to be some tension, or there's no plot. Both of them were miserable and unable to move on. Then Marcus decided to go for it and get Aiden back. Aiden had been furious and hurt, of course. The way their relationship was mended was not credible, and I pretty much lost all respect for Aiden. Also - unprotected sex with virtually no discussion about whether it would be safe.
2. I almost never say this: too much sex. It was mostly gratuitous and mostly could have been any two men.
3. Repetitive, repetitive, repetitive, repetitive, rep...you get the idea. If I had a dollar for every time a couple was described by others as—or told each other that they were—some version of "soul-mates," I could pay for a trip to Hawaii. It was so over-the-top sweet that it made my teeth ache, and the repetition seriously lessened the impact.
4. There were many things in the book, particularly the last third or so that were described in excruciating detail. I sped up to 1.8 speed.
The good:
1. I normally have a hard time with 2nd chance books, because they usually contain many painful flashback scenes throughout the book. This book front-loaded the first relationship and breakup, which made their relationship much easier to understand and got the painful bit over with.
2. It was nice to see so much of the characters in book one. They were relevant to the plot, and it was great to see how their relationship was progressing.
3. It was very low angst, which I need sometimes. Angst is okay if the book is really well written and it's not just thrown in for drama. I appreciated that she didn't resort to that. Some of the things that very much could have been trouble got resolved, Disney-style.
4. It was fluffy, pleasant, and sweet, so if you want very low angst, you're all set.
If you didn't like this book (#2), don't give up on the series. I just read #3 and it's great!
Audiobook: I usually like Alexander Cendese, but I just don't think he was a good match for this book. JF Harding was fine, but he's usually excellent. I listened on Everand, thank goodness, because if I'd spent an Audible credit on this, I would have been seriously bummed.
September 7, 2022
*****SPOILERS AHEAD****
I'm giving this book 5 stars because it is really good. My problems with it are personal and not because of the writing. But I'll tell you what I didn't exactly like.
In the prologue it would've been helpful to know what Marcus was thinking when he fell into bed with Stephanie and then what he was thinking when he married her. For all the love declarations he said to Aidan it made me really wonder if he really felt the same way as Aidan if he could walk down the aisle knowing marriage is supposed to be forever. So I would've liked to know how thought process with all of that. Aidan was so stuck he didn't even have sex with anyone else the entire ten years even though Marcus was married to someone else. I just felt like Aidan loved Marcus more. Which leads me to the other thing I had trouble with. And it's honestly just personal to me because my daughter thinks just the opposite of what I do. I didn't feel like Aidan gave Marcus enough anger. Yes, he pushed him away a few times but I didn't feel like he truly let Marcus know exactly what he did to him. Then, Aidan just fell in love with Marcus's kid. For me, it would be a constant reminder of what Marcus did. But again just my personal thoughts. My daughter thinks I'm going overboard and believes Marcus really does love Aidan as much and just made bad decisions.
My final and last complaint is that they spent more time on Alex and Christian's wedding than they did on Aidan and Marcus's wedding. We have to download a short to get their wedding. Like it doesn't even make sense. This is Marcus and Aidan's story. It was frustrating.
With all of that being said I'm still giving it five stars because it was really low angst and it was sweet in a lot of places. Plus the sex scenes were really hot. The writing was good too. It kept my interest the whole time even if I was frustrated. So I highly recommend reading it. My opinion is just that, my opinion. So read it and make up your own mind.
I'm giving this book 5 stars because it is really good. My problems with it are personal and not because of the writing. But I'll tell you what I didn't exactly like.
In the prologue it would've been helpful to know what Marcus was thinking when he fell into bed with Stephanie and then what he was thinking when he married her. For all the love declarations he said to Aidan it made me really wonder if he really felt the same way as Aidan if he could walk down the aisle knowing marriage is supposed to be forever. So I would've liked to know how thought process with all of that. Aidan was so stuck he didn't even have sex with anyone else the entire ten years even though Marcus was married to someone else. I just felt like Aidan loved Marcus more. Which leads me to the other thing I had trouble with. And it's honestly just personal to me because my daughter thinks just the opposite of what I do. I didn't feel like Aidan gave Marcus enough anger. Yes, he pushed him away a few times but I didn't feel like he truly let Marcus know exactly what he did to him. Then, Aidan just fell in love with Marcus's kid. For me, it would be a constant reminder of what Marcus did. But again just my personal thoughts. My daughter thinks I'm going overboard and believes Marcus really does love Aidan as much and just made bad decisions.
My final and last complaint is that they spent more time on Alex and Christian's wedding than they did on Aidan and Marcus's wedding. We have to download a short to get their wedding. Like it doesn't even make sense. This is Marcus and Aidan's story. It was frustrating.
With all of that being said I'm still giving it five stars because it was really low angst and it was sweet in a lot of places. Plus the sex scenes were really hot. The writing was good too. It kept my interest the whole time even if I was frustrated. So I highly recommend reading it. My opinion is just that, my opinion. So read it and make up your own mind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2023
Check out our full post for PASS INTERFERENCE on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
PASS INTERFERENCE is the second book in The Package Deal series. It can be read as a standalone, but it reads so much better in the order the authors intended.
Marcus Monroe and Aidan Hayes were college sweethearts. After bad advice by his agent, Marcus walked away from Aidan and regretted it every moment of every day of the last ten years. When there was the possibility to get traded to Portland, Marcus jumped on it knowing he'd be closer to Aidan. Maybe Aidan would just hear him out if he could just have a conversation with him.
Aidan Hayes never expected Marcus Monroe to walk into his brother’s condo after Alex's concussion. He knew he was in town playing on the same team with his brother, but this moment was the one he wanted to avoid. When Marcus tells Aidan he's never stopped loving him, Aidan doesn't know what to do with that, but his heart wants Marcus more than anything else in the world.
I loved watching Aidan and Marcus fight their way back to each other. Aidan makes Marcus work to earn his heart, but it doesn't take much. I was so invested in these characters and all of their friends. I can't wait to see what's next for Simon and Jackson.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
August 26, 2022
Pass Interference by Rheland Richmond and Emerson Beckett is the second book in their Package Deal series. You may want to read Book 1, The
Quarterback Keeper, first as the characters from that book play are intertwined with this story. Marcus and Aiden met in college and fell in love during their 3 years there. Marcus was a football receiver and headed for the NFL while Aiden was pursuing his law degree to become a lawyer to help his brother who was also playing pro football. They were so happy together until Marcus, on the advice of his agent, just left Aiden with no explanation. They were both miserable. Aiden continued his life but was unable to move on. Marcus also went on, married and had a child, but he also couldn’t get over Aiden. After 10 years he decided he had to do something about this, so he got divorced and got traded to Portland where Aiden worked and his brother was the quarterback for the Pirates. When they met again Aiden wanted no part of Marcus except to get closure. But Marcus wouldn’t give up. The rest of the story details his attempts to get Aiden to love him again. Some of the trials were fun but others were almost heartbreaking but Marcus was not going to give up. Finally they realized they had to be together no matter what so they got their happy ending. I enjoyed this book, especially after they got back together. Theirs was a true love story where they both realized they couldn’t be with anyone else and they had to be together to be happy. I also liked the side characters as they really helped Marcus and Aiden understand that they needed each other, and they also added some levity and fun to the plot. I recommend this book and am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
Quarterback Keeper, first as the characters from that book play are intertwined with this story. Marcus and Aiden met in college and fell in love during their 3 years there. Marcus was a football receiver and headed for the NFL while Aiden was pursuing his law degree to become a lawyer to help his brother who was also playing pro football. They were so happy together until Marcus, on the advice of his agent, just left Aiden with no explanation. They were both miserable. Aiden continued his life but was unable to move on. Marcus also went on, married and had a child, but he also couldn’t get over Aiden. After 10 years he decided he had to do something about this, so he got divorced and got traded to Portland where Aiden worked and his brother was the quarterback for the Pirates. When they met again Aiden wanted no part of Marcus except to get closure. But Marcus wouldn’t give up. The rest of the story details his attempts to get Aiden to love him again. Some of the trials were fun but others were almost heartbreaking but Marcus was not going to give up. Finally they realized they had to be together no matter what so they got their happy ending. I enjoyed this book, especially after they got back together. Theirs was a true love story where they both realized they couldn’t be with anyone else and they had to be together to be happy. I also liked the side characters as they really helped Marcus and Aiden understand that they needed each other, and they also added some levity and fun to the plot. I recommend this book and am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
September 7, 2022
This is book 2 of The Package Deal series but you can enjoy it as a stand alone. This book focuses on Aiden and Marcus. Aiden is brother to Alex who is the team quarterback. Aiden is his sports rep and brother. He lost the love of his life while in university with no explanation and focuses his energy on protecting hsi brother Alex. Marcus is the newest wide receiver traded in. Freshly divorced and adoring father. He is also the person who left the love of his life while in university with no explanation nor contact. The person that he never forgot or got over. Whne they meet again there are fireworks. This is their story. I note that a lot of people didn't like the various prologues at the beginning of the book. Myself, I didn't mind them at all. It was an efficient way to cover such a vast period of time and still give us glimpses into their lives. This is a sports romance but only in the sense the the main characters were football players. To me, it didn't really seem like a sport romanse per se. And overall I was underwhelmed by this story. The big conflict that was built up was gone in a very short period. I also had a little bit of a problem relating to Marcus. Asking for forgiveness because I was young, scared and stupid is one thing. Not contacting that person once to explain in 10 years is just too big a hill for me to climb. Soulmates or not, it seems incredible that the situation is resolves in a chapter or two. That is not to say that this is a bad book because it isn't. It is well written and easy to read. I just didn't connect to this story like I did the first book in the series. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving my honest review.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving my honest review.
August 28, 2022
This is a great second book in the Packagr Deal series. Fireworks were hinted at in book one with these two and it doesn't disappoint.
I really enjoyed the prologues as they give readers the chance to know what's happened between and with Aiden and Marcus over the past ten years starting with their reunion. I could instantly tell their chemistry was off the charts and nothing had diminished in the time they'd been apart, no matter distance, time or other partners. Of course, Aiden has every right to tell Marcus to take a hike but when you love someone for so long and so intently, it's not that easy to do. Marcus, for his part, knows how wrong he was and wants to make it up any way he can so they can move forward together.
It's a wonderful romantic story of a second chance with your first love. There's also a special occasion for some old friends and lots of planning for these two if they are to get everything they want to come together. Even though it's the off season, we still get to interact with some of the other players from the Piranhas. Especially Alex, with him being Aiden's brother and Marcus's friend, and his partner Christian from book one. They want this relationship to work out nearly as much as Marcus does, just to see their friends/family as happy as they are having seen them so low.
A recommended read from an entertaining series. There's also a teaser for the next book at the end which I'm really looking forward to.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I really enjoyed the prologues as they give readers the chance to know what's happened between and with Aiden and Marcus over the past ten years starting with their reunion. I could instantly tell their chemistry was off the charts and nothing had diminished in the time they'd been apart, no matter distance, time or other partners. Of course, Aiden has every right to tell Marcus to take a hike but when you love someone for so long and so intently, it's not that easy to do. Marcus, for his part, knows how wrong he was and wants to make it up any way he can so they can move forward together.
It's a wonderful romantic story of a second chance with your first love. There's also a special occasion for some old friends and lots of planning for these two if they are to get everything they want to come together. Even though it's the off season, we still get to interact with some of the other players from the Piranhas. Especially Alex, with him being Aiden's brother and Marcus's friend, and his partner Christian from book one. They want this relationship to work out nearly as much as Marcus does, just to see their friends/family as happy as they are having seen them so low.
A recommended read from an entertaining series. There's also a teaser for the next book at the end which I'm really looking forward to.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 6, 2022
So, after reading Alex and Christians story, I was really looking forward to this one. Normally I am not a big fan of second-chance stories but this sounded promising.
Unfortunately I was not overwhelmed by it.
The conflict at the beginning was well done and I liked Marcus and his devotion to Aidan and to righting his mistakes.
But after the two got together - which happens around 40% into the book - there is just not a lot of story there.
I didn't really connect to the story and it felt more like a report than a passionate love story. Things just happened and we don't get to experience them with the MCs.
There were so many instances I would have loved to see and in my opinion a lot of possible conflicts which where simply ignored.
Additionally to that, for every missing development scene we got a sex scene. Don't get me wrong, I love that part of a good romance but here it felt like the main focus, instead of the focus being the emotional part.
The last third felt more like an addition to Alex and Christians story, as we see their wedding very detailed.
There was also some groundwork done for future books, which may get a chance from me as I really liked the first book. Unfortunately this one was not so convincing
Unfortunately I was not overwhelmed by it.
The conflict at the beginning was well done and I liked Marcus and his devotion to Aidan and to righting his mistakes.
But after the two got together - which happens around 40% into the book - there is just not a lot of story there.
I didn't really connect to the story and it felt more like a report than a passionate love story. Things just happened and we don't get to experience them with the MCs.
There were so many instances I would have loved to see and in my opinion a lot of possible conflicts which where simply ignored.
Additionally to that, for every missing development scene we got a sex scene. Don't get me wrong, I love that part of a good romance but here it felt like the main focus, instead of the focus being the emotional part.
The last third felt more like an addition to Alex and Christians story, as we see their wedding very detailed.
There was also some groundwork done for future books, which may get a chance from me as I really liked the first book. Unfortunately this one was not so convincing
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