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Playing the Field #1
Playing the Game: Playing the Field, Book 1
She dominates on the pitch. But he’s the boss in the bedroom.
Miri
I’ve always dreamed of playing professional football, so when the new director of Calverdale Ladies wants to sign me, I should be ecstatic. But renowned billionaire playboy Gabe Rivers doesn’t just want me as his new striker…
I need to get to the top because of my talent on the pitch, not in the sack. So I can’t be another prize for Gabe. Even if he is infuriatingly gorgeous.
Gabe
Do I care that the press have decided I’m a heartless womanizer? Not one bit. I’ve never given up anything I want, and that includes Miri Forster.
She’s the most talented player I’ve ever seen, and sexy as hell. I know I can get her out of my system—I just need one night. And I don’t care what it costs me…
When it comes to playing the game, her billionaire boss might be out of Miri’s league, but it’s Gabe that’ll find himself out of his depth…
Playing the Game is the first book in the Playing the Field series—addictive romances full of heart and steam, perfect for fans of T L Swan.
Revised Previously published as Playing the Billionaire , this edition of Playing the Game includes editorial revisions.
Miri
I’ve always dreamed of playing professional football, so when the new director of Calverdale Ladies wants to sign me, I should be ecstatic. But renowned billionaire playboy Gabe Rivers doesn’t just want me as his new striker…
I need to get to the top because of my talent on the pitch, not in the sack. So I can’t be another prize for Gabe. Even if he is infuriatingly gorgeous.
Gabe
Do I care that the press have decided I’m a heartless womanizer? Not one bit. I’ve never given up anything I want, and that includes Miri Forster.
She’s the most talented player I’ve ever seen, and sexy as hell. I know I can get her out of my system—I just need one night. And I don’t care what it costs me…
When it comes to playing the game, her billionaire boss might be out of Miri’s league, but it’s Gabe that’ll find himself out of his depth…
Playing the Game is the first book in the Playing the Field series—addictive romances full of heart and steam, perfect for fans of T L Swan.
Revised Previously published as Playing the Billionaire , this edition of Playing the Game includes editorial revisions.
Audible Audio
Published November 15, 2024
313 people are currently reading
8098 people want to read
About the author
Sasha Lace
9 books180 followersSasha Lace used to be a very serious scientist before she ditched the lab coat and started writing kissing books. Sasha lives in the North of England and is a mom of two young boys. Everyone in her family is soccer mad, so she knows way more about soccer than she ever wanted to know. As a scientist and mom, her hobbies include: mulling over the complexities of the universe, treading barefoot on Lego, chipping dried Play-Doh from fabric surfaces, dried flower arranging (because you can’t kill something twice), and writing about herself in the third person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
August 25, 2024
Thank you, Montlake and author, for the ARC.
This is such a good short hot romance! There’s not much regarding the sport but you definitely can expect a good romance!
This book is for those who can handle or LOVE a little spice with a good plot.
The side characters need better development. Somehow they sound robotic or told to say whatever they were saying. Other than that the book is a fun short romance read.
This is such a good short hot romance! There’s not much regarding the sport but you definitely can expect a good romance!
This book is for those who can handle or LOVE a little spice with a good plot.
The side characters need better development. Somehow they sound robotic or told to say whatever they were saying. Other than that the book is a fun short romance read.
March 24, 2025
4 stars
I have not read many soccer romances so I was super excited to dive into this one. It has some fun messy tropes that I love, there was good tension and some fun banter. I really loved Miri, she was just unstoppable on the field, she stood strong on her values, friendships and overall a very entertaining and relatable character to follow. The romance was interesting and their dynamic was ok, they did not really seem to work at first but I did like the relationship development. It was just a fun exciting time, there were a couple things I would check trigger warnings on before picking this book up, but I would definitely recommend it.
I received an ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
I have not read many soccer romances so I was super excited to dive into this one. It has some fun messy tropes that I love, there was good tension and some fun banter. I really loved Miri, she was just unstoppable on the field, she stood strong on her values, friendships and overall a very entertaining and relatable character to follow. The romance was interesting and their dynamic was ok, they did not really seem to work at first but I did like the relationship development. It was just a fun exciting time, there were a couple things I would check trigger warnings on before picking this book up, but I would definitely recommend it.
I received an ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
August 24, 2024
read this in one sitting. it was refreshing to see a female football player rather than a male for once. i liked Miri but i didn’t like Gabe that much, he was always used to getting what he wanted without delay and he was acting that way towards Miri as well. The reason i gave this a 3.75 stars was the miscommunication that could have easily been avoided and Gabe’s persistant wants towards Miri and stating he always gets what he wants. Also the third act breakup is a no for me, but that is just my opinion. not yucking anyone’s yum. overall, it was my first book from the author and i enjoyed it besides the things i stated. it was a fast read and saved me from a slump. so if you want to give this book a chance, i would say go ahead. i saw the tropes of book 3 and excited for that one!
3.75/ 🌟
3/5 🌶️
3.75/ 🌟
3/5 🌶️
October 24, 2024
A steamy, billionaire x star athlete forbidden romance between the owner of a women's soccer (football) team and the all-star player he's trying to recruit and who he's also become obsessed with getting into bed for one night only. A misunderstood playboy and an exotic dancer slash soccer player heat up the sheets in this first Playing the field book that's perfect for fans of authors like CW Farnsworth or Liz Tomforde. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
November 22, 2024
3.5⭐
Steamy romance between a struggling footballer and the billionaire teamer director. Beset by financial concerns from healthcare for her mom, Miri borrows money from a loanshark that forces her into some unpleasant situations. If you're coming for the steam, you won't be disappointed. However characters and plot points were a little under developed. Decent read, just not great. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Steamy romance between a struggling footballer and the billionaire teamer director. Beset by financial concerns from healthcare for her mom, Miri borrows money from a loanshark that forces her into some unpleasant situations. If you're coming for the steam, you won't be disappointed. However characters and plot points were a little under developed. Decent read, just not great. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2024
2ish stars for most, but that epilogue is awful so Im droppping it down to 1. Most of this didn't work for me.
Gabe is a bad hero and not in a good bad boy kind of way. He's used to getting what he wants, demanding, doesn't listen or communicate. He's a spoilt child and that's just not sexy. Yes he had a rough time family wise but he also never had to care about consequences for any of his actions. No accountability.
Miri had potential but she was so dumb. Taking a loan from a drug dealing family and not expecting any kind of consequences when you dont pay on time is just pure stupidity.
Its supposedly a sports romance but there wasn't much time spent on the field. A short scene or two and that was it. Mostly it was just for Gabe to drool over Miri in her shorts and bra too. I expected more than just continuously being told she is the best and he used to play.
The issues for the relationship were never really dealt with. There's the want to keep it professional that lasts all of 10 seconds and how this is such a big deal but nothing comes of it. Their whole relationship was a rushed, lust filled mess. And the sex scenes weren't even good.
I appreciated how the misogyny was dealt with. There are huge discrepancies between women's and men's sports. Plus the way woman can have their careers destroyed by men in power over them was done well here.
This was my first book by the author and I dont intend to read another. Not for me.
Gabe is a bad hero and not in a good bad boy kind of way. He's used to getting what he wants, demanding, doesn't listen or communicate. He's a spoilt child and that's just not sexy. Yes he had a rough time family wise but he also never had to care about consequences for any of his actions. No accountability.
Miri had potential but she was so dumb. Taking a loan from a drug dealing family and not expecting any kind of consequences when you dont pay on time is just pure stupidity.
Its supposedly a sports romance but there wasn't much time spent on the field. A short scene or two and that was it. Mostly it was just for Gabe to drool over Miri in her shorts and bra too. I expected more than just continuously being told she is the best and he used to play.
The issues for the relationship were never really dealt with. There's the want to keep it professional that lasts all of 10 seconds and how this is such a big deal but nothing comes of it. Their whole relationship was a rushed, lust filled mess. And the sex scenes weren't even good.
I appreciated how the misogyny was dealt with. There are huge discrepancies between women's and men's sports. Plus the way woman can have their careers destroyed by men in power over them was done well here.
This was my first book by the author and I dont intend to read another. Not for me.
December 5, 2024
So, this past week I finished a read along of “Playing the Game" - it's the first book in the Playing The Field series, and let me tell you, it's a wild ride! We've got Gabe, this billionaire who's basically forced to manage a women's football team when all he really wants is the men's team. Then there's Miri, this super talented footballer dealing with some serious personal stuff like her mom's recent stroke and some major financial pressure.
I'm gonna be real with you - I had some mixed feelings about this one. Don't get me wrong, I totally enjoyed the book and Miri is an absolute queen of a character. But that ending? It left me feeling a bit... meh.
Gabe was a whole mood - and not always in a good way. I bounced between wanting to high-five him and wanting to throw the book across the room. He's got this super selfish streak that reminded me so much of his mom - it's basically "my way or the highway" with this guy.
But here's the silver lining: this is just book one! Lace's writing is seriously addictive. She's got this killer combo of humour and wit that makes the book fly by. Even with my issues with the ending, I'm totally ready to dive into the next book in the series.
If you're into sports romances that come with a hefty side of tension and some seriously spicy moments, "Playing the Game" might just be your next read. Just don't say I didn't warn you about Gabe!
I'm gonna be real with you - I had some mixed feelings about this one. Don't get me wrong, I totally enjoyed the book and Miri is an absolute queen of a character. But that ending? It left me feeling a bit... meh.
Gabe was a whole mood - and not always in a good way. I bounced between wanting to high-five him and wanting to throw the book across the room. He's got this super selfish streak that reminded me so much of his mom - it's basically "my way or the highway" with this guy.
But here's the silver lining: this is just book one! Lace's writing is seriously addictive. She's got this killer combo of humour and wit that makes the book fly by. Even with my issues with the ending, I'm totally ready to dive into the next book in the series.
If you're into sports romances that come with a hefty side of tension and some seriously spicy moments, "Playing the Game" might just be your next read. Just don't say I didn't warn you about Gabe!
August 24, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review. Miri is a striker for a mediocre team. And Gabe is the son of the owner of Calverdale United, a premier men’s soccer team. When Gabe’s dad passes away, Gabe is offered the women’s team to help them become the best team possible. Along the way, Gabe realizes Miri is who he wants for his team. But will he be able to cross the professional line or will she push him away?
This book was okay - classic billionaire who has never been told no and he has to have that girl. I really liked Miri’s story and her resilience of what’s she’s been through. There were times I wanted to punch Gabe but he was a spoiled rich kid who was never told no. Though there was a moment where he was a complete asshole and I almost walked away from the book. But more than halfway through the book it got better and I really liked the ending of the book and Miri and Gabe’s story.
This book was okay - classic billionaire who has never been told no and he has to have that girl. I really liked Miri’s story and her resilience of what’s she’s been through. There were times I wanted to punch Gabe but he was a spoiled rich kid who was never told no. Though there was a moment where he was a complete asshole and I almost walked away from the book. But more than halfway through the book it got better and I really liked the ending of the book and Miri and Gabe’s story.
September 20, 2025
"I always get what I want, and I want you."
This was such a wholesome, cute read!
Gabe, the spoiled, rich kid and fuckboy who's actually a big softy behind closed doors and Miri, the charming girl who would do anything for her family (even become a stripper).
I am OBSESSED with the way Gabe was obsessed with Miri right away, just from seeing her play football. He knew he wanted her, for the team and himself, and did everything in his power to get there.
I loooooved the element of it being about women soccer (or just football, as we call it here in Europe). Normally it's always the men being the athlete; think hockey and basketball and american football and baseball romances. So this was a nice surprise!
Cant wait to read the other books in this series. Sasha is a wonderful writer! 🤍✨
This was such a wholesome, cute read!
Gabe, the spoiled, rich kid and fuckboy who's actually a big softy behind closed doors and Miri, the charming girl who would do anything for her family (even become a stripper).
I am OBSESSED with the way Gabe was obsessed with Miri right away, just from seeing her play football. He knew he wanted her, for the team and himself, and did everything in his power to get there.
I loooooved the element of it being about women soccer (or just football, as we call it here in Europe). Normally it's always the men being the athlete; think hockey and basketball and american football and baseball romances. So this was a nice surprise!
Cant wait to read the other books in this series. Sasha is a wonderful writer! 🤍✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2024
I actually listened to the audiobook for this updated book. I read the original book version and this audiobook was so good!
I loved the voice actors and they I was drawn in and felt like it was friends telling me their story!
I enjoyed the book version and this audio was so well done! The tension and build up had me on the edge, rooting for them from the beginning to the end. Humour, spice, character development and the side characters all captured me and I am so excited for future audiobooks for the series!
I loved this series by Sasha the first time I read them and I think I’m going to love it all even more listening to them this go around!
I loved the voice actors and they I was drawn in and felt like it was friends telling me their story!
I enjoyed the book version and this audio was so well done! The tension and build up had me on the edge, rooting for them from the beginning to the end. Humour, spice, character development and the side characters all captured me and I am so excited for future audiobooks for the series!
I loved this series by Sasha the first time I read them and I think I’m going to love it all even more listening to them this go around!
October 28, 2024
Revised Previously published as Playing the Billionaire, this edition of Playing the Game includes editorial revisions.
This is Miri, the best striker on the women's football league, and Gabe, her billionaire owner, gonna be lover. This is a good start to the series. Gabe is a playboy, and Miri is tryin to help her family, but 2gether they are a match for each other. I love their story and all the ups and downs they have to go throu. Miri's siblings are adorable, and her mom is so sweet.
I was given a copy by the publisher via NetGalley (Thank U), and all my opinions are my own.
This is Miri, the best striker on the women's football league, and Gabe, her billionaire owner, gonna be lover. This is a good start to the series. Gabe is a playboy, and Miri is tryin to help her family, but 2gether they are a match for each other. I love their story and all the ups and downs they have to go throu. Miri's siblings are adorable, and her mom is so sweet.
I was given a copy by the publisher via NetGalley (Thank U), and all my opinions are my own.
December 31, 2024
Disclaimer: I received this book as a giveaway from Goodreads
I love a good romance story and this one didn’t disappoint. The beginning started off slow but once the characters and their situations were established it picked up momentum. I enjoyed the Women’s football aspect and the England setting. I found Miri’s family dynamic hilarious. The close knit vibe they shared was endearing and added a fun element to the book. And of course the relationship between Miri and Gabe was fun to watch develop throughout the story. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
I love a good romance story and this one didn’t disappoint. The beginning started off slow but once the characters and their situations were established it picked up momentum. I enjoyed the Women’s football aspect and the England setting. I found Miri’s family dynamic hilarious. The close knit vibe they shared was endearing and added a fun element to the book. And of course the relationship between Miri and Gabe was fun to watch develop throughout the story. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
May 8, 2025
This was an easy read/listen. Nothing outstanding.
Loved the FMC being the athlete for something different. And I enjoyed Miri, Gabe gave me ✨nothing ✨.
The miscommunication was fucking annoying. They both sucked.
Also the epilogue made this book lose an entire star. You’re telling me, they talked about her playing for England the entire book but a year later she hasn’t done that AND SHES KNOCKED UP AND IS STARTING THEIR FAMILY???? Gross.
Loved the FMC being the athlete for something different. And I enjoyed Miri, Gabe gave me ✨nothing ✨.
The miscommunication was fucking annoying. They both sucked.
Also the epilogue made this book lose an entire star. You’re telling me, they talked about her playing for England the entire book but a year later she hasn’t done that AND SHES KNOCKED UP AND IS STARTING THEIR FAMILY???? Gross.
December 9, 2024
I really enjoyed the pace of this book - no irrelevant details or descriptions - straight to the point. However, I do wish we got more of the competitive football side in the plot (we had a bit of it at the start but it disappeared in the middle).
Really enjoyed the view of the romance and how it fitted with the plot. It wasn't just pure romance but with some side characters involved and other 'family-plot' intertwined within.
The main character of Miri was really likeable (and thoroughly enjoyed her), as for Gabe - he was liable but perhaps how straightforward he was at times did not sit well with me - but it's a personal opinion rather than a problem with the plot.
Really interested in the rest of the series!
Will definitely be recommending this one for fans of sports romances and quick paced books.
Really enjoyed the view of the romance and how it fitted with the plot. It wasn't just pure romance but with some side characters involved and other 'family-plot' intertwined within.
The main character of Miri was really likeable (and thoroughly enjoyed her), as for Gabe - he was liable but perhaps how straightforward he was at times did not sit well with me - but it's a personal opinion rather than a problem with the plot.
Really interested in the rest of the series!
Will definitely be recommending this one for fans of sports romances and quick paced books.
November 21, 2024
A sports romance meets workplace romance meets billionaire romance. This one was spicier than I expected simply because Gabe has a filthy mouth lol. I binged this in one workday because the audio was good.
October 29, 2024
Miri and Gabe are so dang cute together! This book is so well done! Absolutely love this story!! 🙃♥️
December 19, 2024
eh was quite rushed but good plot, more could’ve been done with it
December 29, 2024
2.5 stars!
would have rated higher if the book was longer from developing on the plot more as that was good :/
would have rated higher if the book was longer from developing on the plot more as that was good :/
September 16, 2025
I fear I am the problem but god damn this man is a big baby
October 30, 2024
3.5
This was a fun and quick listen. I really liked the plot and the main characters. The FMC was the strong and determined type which I appreciated! This man is down baaad for this girl. The secret identity element in this situation created an interesting dynamic, as the MMC found a deep connection to two women who had stumbled into his life who turned out to be the same person the whole time.
I appreciated how Sasha Lace was able to navigate complex emotions of betrayal and grief through her characters and it had an interesting twist at the end!
I wasn't a huge fan of the narrators in this one. I have always known that Shane East isn't a favourite narrator of mine, unless he is performing in duet, because I struggle listening to his "female" voice, but he performed as I expected. I was not a fan of Lulu Russell's performance in the beginning, because even though I was listening at 2x speed, it felt like her narration was very slow with awkward long breaks. That said, I believe her pacing got better throughout the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the advanced copy of the audiobook!
This was a fun and quick listen. I really liked the plot and the main characters. The FMC was the strong and determined type which I appreciated! This man is down baaad for this girl. The secret identity element in this situation created an interesting dynamic, as the MMC found a deep connection to two women who had stumbled into his life who turned out to be the same person the whole time.
I appreciated how Sasha Lace was able to navigate complex emotions of betrayal and grief through her characters and it had an interesting twist at the end!
I wasn't a huge fan of the narrators in this one. I have always known that Shane East isn't a favourite narrator of mine, unless he is performing in duet, because I struggle listening to his "female" voice, but he performed as I expected. I was not a fan of Lulu Russell's performance in the beginning, because even though I was listening at 2x speed, it felt like her narration was very slow with awkward long breaks. That said, I believe her pacing got better throughout the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the advanced copy of the audiobook!
did-not-finish
December 11, 2024@16% - I can’t get past the British accents on audio
January 5, 2025
he wants her on his team and he won't stop until he has her.
i enjoyed it, I like the strip club part (idk if that's a spoiler)
i enjoyed it, I like the strip club part (idk if that's a spoiler)
May 2, 2025
Love it!
I am re-reading the series because I loved it so much the first time and now with the audiobook, I am enjoying the fabulous narrators.
Miri and Gabe's story is so much fun! I laughed, I cried, cringed and cheered. All the feels!
On to Reece's story!
I am re-reading the series because I loved it so much the first time and now with the audiobook, I am enjoying the fabulous narrators.
Miri and Gabe's story is so much fun! I laughed, I cried, cringed and cheered. All the feels!
On to Reece's story!
January 18, 2025
For some reason this book really annoyed me. I felt like the conflicts with Gabe were kinda ridiculous and he felt like a man child. Miri was a great character but man.. Gabe sucked.
December 8, 2024
Book Information
Playing The Game
By
Sasha Lace.
Genre - Sports Romance.
Pages - 269 Pages.
Tropes -
FMC football player
MMC billionaire
Forbidden romance
Righting past wrongs.
Parental illness.
Available on Kindle Unlimited - Available on kindle unlimited, full series available now.
Available Formats - Kindle, Audiobook and Paperback.
Publishing Information -
Re-published on 15th November 2024. Previously was Playing The Billionaire.
Format in Which i Read - Physical for a read-along with Tandem Collective.
Where my copy come From - Mailout from Tandem Collective.
POVs - Dual POV - Miri and Gabe.
Dual Timeline - Single timeline.
1st or 3rd Person - 1st Person.
HEA, HFN or Cliffhanger - HEA.
Series or Standalone - This is the first book in the Playing The Field series. 4 books currently in the series.
Trigger Warnings - Please check content warnings before reading at the beginning of the book.
My Initial Thoughts
The cover of this is such a vivid pink that it drew me in straight away. I loved Miri straight from the start, she tries so hard to maintain the image of not needing any help as she's the older sister, and you can feel her trying to balance life. As I felt similar feelings myself, I think I felt very drawn into it, just from her character alone. Gabe initially gave me the ick.
Plot
I enjoyed the plot, I only wished that there was more of the football element and that the book was a bit longer to include it. The ending felt a bit flat for me and as cute as the epilogue was, I would have liked it to have been more about Miri and football.
Both the characters had trust issues and the hearts had been broken so it does lead to miscommunication trope playing a card towards the end. But overall I did enjoy the plot and how it was written.
Characters
Straight away I felt a connection with Miri and her family. So much compassion for the situation. Miri knows her own mind and is a strong FMC, Then come along Gabe and although he did give me the ick to begin with, you begin to understand he is quite misunderstood, and not everything is as black and white as the press say. Gabe's mother, although she made me laugh with her back handed comments, she's such a control freak and not someone you would want as a parent.
Recommend
If you are a sports romance lover and want the sports player to be an FMC in the football world then this is for you. Even better the whole series is out already.
Favourite Quotes
" Little Swan."
"Sounds like a classic womanizer - only capable of superficial relationships because he's seeking the love he never got from a parent. I doubt he has the skill necessary for true emotional intimacy."
"You're a human being, not a TripAdvisor listing. You shouldn't be proud of getting five stars."
"Don't tell me what to do, Rivers. It will only make it worse for you."
Favourite Chapter/s
Chapter 28.
Summed up in one sentence
A sport romance where the athlete is a FMC.
Overall Wrap up
This was a great start to a series and I really enjoyed the writing style. It was quick to get into and one of those books where you fly through the pages, not wanting to put it down. I loved the characters and I'm looking forward to how they interlink into the rest of the series. I love the fact that this is on kindle unlimited and the 4 books are all available now as the second I put down Playing The Game, I picked up the next one Playing To Score.
Stars.
3.75
Spice.
2
Playing The Game
By
Sasha Lace.
Genre - Sports Romance.
Pages - 269 Pages.
Tropes -
FMC football player
MMC billionaire
Forbidden romance
Righting past wrongs.
Parental illness.
Available on Kindle Unlimited - Available on kindle unlimited, full series available now.
Available Formats - Kindle, Audiobook and Paperback.
Publishing Information -
Re-published on 15th November 2024. Previously was Playing The Billionaire.
Format in Which i Read - Physical for a read-along with Tandem Collective.
Where my copy come From - Mailout from Tandem Collective.
POVs - Dual POV - Miri and Gabe.
Dual Timeline - Single timeline.
1st or 3rd Person - 1st Person.
HEA, HFN or Cliffhanger - HEA.
Series or Standalone - This is the first book in the Playing The Field series. 4 books currently in the series.
Trigger Warnings - Please check content warnings before reading at the beginning of the book.
My Initial Thoughts
The cover of this is such a vivid pink that it drew me in straight away. I loved Miri straight from the start, she tries so hard to maintain the image of not needing any help as she's the older sister, and you can feel her trying to balance life. As I felt similar feelings myself, I think I felt very drawn into it, just from her character alone. Gabe initially gave me the ick.
Plot
I enjoyed the plot, I only wished that there was more of the football element and that the book was a bit longer to include it. The ending felt a bit flat for me and as cute as the epilogue was, I would have liked it to have been more about Miri and football.
Both the characters had trust issues and the hearts had been broken so it does lead to miscommunication trope playing a card towards the end. But overall I did enjoy the plot and how it was written.
Characters
Straight away I felt a connection with Miri and her family. So much compassion for the situation. Miri knows her own mind and is a strong FMC, Then come along Gabe and although he did give me the ick to begin with, you begin to understand he is quite misunderstood, and not everything is as black and white as the press say. Gabe's mother, although she made me laugh with her back handed comments, she's such a control freak and not someone you would want as a parent.
Recommend
If you are a sports romance lover and want the sports player to be an FMC in the football world then this is for you. Even better the whole series is out already.
Favourite Quotes
" Little Swan."
"Sounds like a classic womanizer - only capable of superficial relationships because he's seeking the love he never got from a parent. I doubt he has the skill necessary for true emotional intimacy."
"You're a human being, not a TripAdvisor listing. You shouldn't be proud of getting five stars."
"Don't tell me what to do, Rivers. It will only make it worse for you."
Favourite Chapter/s
Chapter 28.
Summed up in one sentence
A sport romance where the athlete is a FMC.
Overall Wrap up
This was a great start to a series and I really enjoyed the writing style. It was quick to get into and one of those books where you fly through the pages, not wanting to put it down. I loved the characters and I'm looking forward to how they interlink into the rest of the series. I love the fact that this is on kindle unlimited and the 4 books are all available now as the second I put down Playing The Game, I picked up the next one Playing To Score.
Stars.
3.75
Spice.
2
January 22, 2025
This was literally a filler book for me to split up my fantasy reads, got what I wanted from it and did enjoy it, just not my typical read.
December 1, 2024
Who doesn't love a steamy forbidden romance between a billionaire and a female footballer.. note I said female purely because it was so refreshing to read about a female footballer for once instead of a male.
Miri was a damn good character. Her resilience was astounding, and the tough times she faced always made her stronger. Bad ass if you ask me! Did anyone else want to knock out the pretty boy we call Gabe? There were times he just made my blood boil, especially when he always thought he always gets what he wants. Frustrating! I'm kind of glad he had a bit of a wake-up call, and miri humbled him.
I wasn't sure where this book was going to lead, but I'm so glad for that ending. I loved Miri & Gabes' story.
Well, let's say I loved this book that much. Books 2, 3, and 4 are on my Kindle waiting for me.
Thank you to Tandem Collective for a spot on the readalong and, of course, the book itself.
Miri was a damn good character. Her resilience was astounding, and the tough times she faced always made her stronger. Bad ass if you ask me! Did anyone else want to knock out the pretty boy we call Gabe? There were times he just made my blood boil, especially when he always thought he always gets what he wants. Frustrating! I'm kind of glad he had a bit of a wake-up call, and miri humbled him.
I wasn't sure where this book was going to lead, but I'm so glad for that ending. I loved Miri & Gabes' story.
Well, let's say I loved this book that much. Books 2, 3, and 4 are on my Kindle waiting for me.
Thank you to Tandem Collective for a spot on the readalong and, of course, the book itself.
November 29, 2024
I can't believe I'm saying this, but this is one of the few instances in which I think the book should have been longer.
The plot was very interesting and there were loads of points in which the story would have benefitted from it taking some time to resolve rather than a single paragraph.
While the MMC is interested in her as a person at the end his first thoughts of her were about her chest and wanting to bend her over a desk, while she was playing football.
The story has potential but it needed to be expanded a bit more.
SPOILERS FOR THE END:
This woman worked so hard to get in a high league and you're telling me that less than a year after she joins she decides to have a baby?????? Really.... Her winning the cup would have made the story way more resolute.
The plot was very interesting and there were loads of points in which the story would have benefitted from it taking some time to resolve rather than a single paragraph.
While the MMC is interested in her as a person at the end his first thoughts of her were about her chest and wanting to bend her over a desk, while she was playing football.
The story has potential but it needed to be expanded a bit more.
SPOILERS FOR THE END:
This woman worked so hard to get in a high league and you're telling me that less than a year after she joins she decides to have a baby?????? Really.... Her winning the cup would have made the story way more resolute.
October 20, 2024
I listened to the audio version of this book, which at first was a little hard to understand, but once I got the hang of it, I found it to be a surprising and entertaining book. I found myself laughing out loud with most of the things being described and it held my attention from the beginning until the end.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for gifting me this book in exchange for my honest review
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for gifting me this book in exchange for my honest review
August 4, 2025
Book Information
Playing The Game
By
Sasha Lace.
Genre - Sports Romance.
Pages - 269 Pages.
Tropes -
FMC football player
MMC billionaire
Forbidden romance
Righting past wrongs.
Parental illness.
Available on Kindle Unlimited - Available on kindle unlimited, full series available now.
Available Formats - Kindle, Audiobook and Paperback.
Publishing Information -
Re-published on 15th November 2024. Previously was Playing The Billionaire.
Format in Which i Read - Physical for a read-along with Tandem Collective.
Where my copy come From - Mailout from Tandem Collective.
POVs - Dual POV - Miri and Gabe.
Dual Timeline - Single timeline.
1st or 3rd Person - 1st Person.
HEA, HFN or Cliffhanger - HEA.
Series or Standalone - This is the first book in the Playing The Field series. 4 books currently in the series.
Trigger Warnings - Please check content warnings before reading at the beginning of the book.
My Initial Thoughts
The cover of this is such a vivid pink that it drew me in straight away. I loved Miri straight from the start, she tries so hard to maintain the image of not needing any help as she's the older sister, and you can feel her trying to balance life. As I felt similar feelings myself, I think I felt very drawn into it, just from her character alone. Gabe initially gave me the ick.
Plot
I enjoyed the plot, I only wished that there was more of the football element and that the book was a bit longer to include it. The ending felt a bit flat for me and as cute as the epilogue was, I would have liked it to have been more about Miri and football.
Both the characters had trust issues and the hearts had been broken so it does lead to miscommunication trope playing a card towards the end. But overall I did enjoy the plot and how it was written.
Characters
Straight away I felt a connection with Miri and her family. So much compassion for the situation. Miri knows her own mind and is a strong FMC, Then come along Gabe and although he did give me the ick to begin with, you begin to understand he is quite misunderstood, and not everything is as black and white as the press say. Gabe's mother, although she made me laugh with her back handed comments, she's such a control freak and not someone you would want as a parent.
Recommend
If you are a sports romance lover and want the sports player to be an FMC in the football world then this is for you. Even better the whole series is out already.
Favourite Quotes
" Little Swan."
"Sounds like a classic womanizer - only capable of superficial relationships because he's seeking the love he never got from a parent. I doubt he has the skill necessary for true emotional intimacy."
"You're a human being, not a TripAdvisor listing. You shouldn't be proud of getting five stars."
"Don't tell me what to do, Rivers. It will only make it worse for you."
Favourite Chapter/s
Chapter 28.
Summed up in one sentence
A sport romance where the athlete is a FMC.
Overall Wrap up
This was a great start to a series and I really enjoyed the writing style. It was quick to get into and one of those books where you fly through the pages, not wanting to put it down. I loved the characters and I'm looking forward to how they interlink into the rest of the series. I love the fact that this is on kindle unlimited and the 4 books are all available now as the second I put down Playing The Game, I picked up the next one Playing To Score.
Stars.
3.75
Spice.
2
Playing The Game
By
Sasha Lace.
Genre - Sports Romance.
Pages - 269 Pages.
Tropes -
FMC football player
MMC billionaire
Forbidden romance
Righting past wrongs.
Parental illness.
Available on Kindle Unlimited - Available on kindle unlimited, full series available now.
Available Formats - Kindle, Audiobook and Paperback.
Publishing Information -
Re-published on 15th November 2024. Previously was Playing The Billionaire.
Format in Which i Read - Physical for a read-along with Tandem Collective.
Where my copy come From - Mailout from Tandem Collective.
POVs - Dual POV - Miri and Gabe.
Dual Timeline - Single timeline.
1st or 3rd Person - 1st Person.
HEA, HFN or Cliffhanger - HEA.
Series or Standalone - This is the first book in the Playing The Field series. 4 books currently in the series.
Trigger Warnings - Please check content warnings before reading at the beginning of the book.
My Initial Thoughts
The cover of this is such a vivid pink that it drew me in straight away. I loved Miri straight from the start, she tries so hard to maintain the image of not needing any help as she's the older sister, and you can feel her trying to balance life. As I felt similar feelings myself, I think I felt very drawn into it, just from her character alone. Gabe initially gave me the ick.
Plot
I enjoyed the plot, I only wished that there was more of the football element and that the book was a bit longer to include it. The ending felt a bit flat for me and as cute as the epilogue was, I would have liked it to have been more about Miri and football.
Both the characters had trust issues and the hearts had been broken so it does lead to miscommunication trope playing a card towards the end. But overall I did enjoy the plot and how it was written.
Characters
Straight away I felt a connection with Miri and her family. So much compassion for the situation. Miri knows her own mind and is a strong FMC, Then come along Gabe and although he did give me the ick to begin with, you begin to understand he is quite misunderstood, and not everything is as black and white as the press say. Gabe's mother, although she made me laugh with her back handed comments, she's such a control freak and not someone you would want as a parent.
Recommend
If you are a sports romance lover and want the sports player to be an FMC in the football world then this is for you. Even better the whole series is out already.
Favourite Quotes
" Little Swan."
"Sounds like a classic womanizer - only capable of superficial relationships because he's seeking the love he never got from a parent. I doubt he has the skill necessary for true emotional intimacy."
"You're a human being, not a TripAdvisor listing. You shouldn't be proud of getting five stars."
"Don't tell me what to do, Rivers. It will only make it worse for you."
Favourite Chapter/s
Chapter 28.
Summed up in one sentence
A sport romance where the athlete is a FMC.
Overall Wrap up
This was a great start to a series and I really enjoyed the writing style. It was quick to get into and one of those books where you fly through the pages, not wanting to put it down. I loved the characters and I'm looking forward to how they interlink into the rest of the series. I love the fact that this is on kindle unlimited and the 4 books are all available now as the second I put down Playing The Game, I picked up the next one Playing To Score.
Stars.
3.75
Spice.
2
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