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Dickson University #2
Playing Games
Dickson University’s star quarterback and campus golden boy is used to winning on and off the field…until he meets the one woman who changes the game.
Blake Boden is the ultimate distraction—annoyingly handsome, enigmatic, and confident enough to make my teeth grind.
He’s the kind of guy who could charm anyone with a single smile, and somehow, I’ve become his latest challenge.
Only, I don’t do challenges—and I don’t do love. Emotions? Just chemical reactions. Distractions? Not on my agenda.
But he has a stubborn streak that won’t leave me alone, and I have a dissertation due at the end of the semester on computer-assisted research that I could put to the test a little more.
I’ll analyze his charm, track my reactions, and prove once and for all that attraction is nothing but science…and love is a mere figment of the imagination.
Time with Blake Boden is purely scientific.
He’s not just breaking my rules—he’s rewriting them.
Other Book
New adult standalone romance
He’s the star quarterback. She’s the cute genius (and neurodivergent).
Opposites attract with intense first-love vibes
He falls first
Secret relationship
Witty banter & laugh-out-loud moments
Off-the-charts chemistry
Grumpy x Sunshine (Reversed)
Protective Hero
Blake Boden is the ultimate distraction—annoyingly handsome, enigmatic, and confident enough to make my teeth grind.
He’s the kind of guy who could charm anyone with a single smile, and somehow, I’ve become his latest challenge.
Only, I don’t do challenges—and I don’t do love. Emotions? Just chemical reactions. Distractions? Not on my agenda.
But he has a stubborn streak that won’t leave me alone, and I have a dissertation due at the end of the semester on computer-assisted research that I could put to the test a little more.
I’ll analyze his charm, track my reactions, and prove once and for all that attraction is nothing but science…and love is a mere figment of the imagination.
Time with Blake Boden is purely scientific.
He’s not just breaking my rules—he’s rewriting them.
Other Book
New adult standalone romance
He’s the star quarterback. She’s the cute genius (and neurodivergent).
Opposites attract with intense first-love vibes
He falls first
Secret relationship
Witty banter & laugh-out-loud moments
Off-the-charts chemistry
Grumpy x Sunshine (Reversed)
Protective Hero
Audible Audio
Published May 20, 2025
1091 people are currently reading
9727 people want to read
About the author
Max Monroe
70 books9,311 followersMany moons ago, a dynamic duo of romance authors teamed up under the pseudonym Max Monroe, and, well, the rest is history...
Max Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of more than thirty contemporary romance titles. Favorite writing partners and long time friends, Max and Monroe strive to live and write all the fun, sexy swoon so often missing from their Facebook newsfeed. Sarcastic by nature, their two writing souls feel like they’ve found their other half. This is their most favorite adventure thus far.
Max Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of more than thirty contemporary romance titles. Favorite writing partners and long time friends, Max and Monroe strive to live and write all the fun, sexy swoon so often missing from their Facebook newsfeed. Sarcastic by nature, their two writing souls feel like they’ve found their other half. This is their most favorite adventure thus far.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 451 reviews
January 31, 2025
4 stars 🌟 Huge thank you to Max Monroe LLC and NetGalley for the e-arc! 🫶
So, this is my third book by Max Monroe, and let me tell you, they’ve become a total instant read author for me! All three ARCs have been so much fun. I haven’t read the Parents/First Gen series yet, but it’s on my list! My one little wish? A family tree! There are so many cameos from other books that I had to keep track of who’s related to whom. If we had a family tree, I’d have it all sorted out and this would be perfection!
Now, onto Playing Games! It’s a college romance with that classic opposites attract vibe, and, was it good! Blake Boden is your golden boy quarterback, with all the charm and a heart full of determination (aka golden retriever boyfriend energy). Lexi, the brainy, neurodivergent, dissertation-focused genius, does not have time for distractions. But then enters Blake, who’s out to prove that emotions are worth the risk. Their chemistry? 🔥 Off the charts! Add in some witty banter, a bit of a secret relationship, and lots of laughs, and you’ve got a recipe for a swoon-worthy read!
I loved seeing the dynamic between these two. Lexi’s internal struggle with emotions is real and relatable, and Blake is just... so patient (he falls first! 😍). The pacing was spot-on, and the moments of vulnerability really hit home. This book had just the right balance of spice 🌶️, laughs 😂, and feels 🥹. The perfect college romance with heart!
Tropes I’m living for:
🏈 Sports romance (Yes, please!)
💘 He falls first
💥 Opposites attract
🤫 Secret relationship
🤓 Neurodivergent heroine
Can’t wait for Ace and Julia’s book! The second-gen crew is just getting started, and I’m here for it. Bring on more Max Monroe!
So, this is my third book by Max Monroe, and let me tell you, they’ve become a total instant read author for me! All three ARCs have been so much fun. I haven’t read the Parents/First Gen series yet, but it’s on my list! My one little wish? A family tree! There are so many cameos from other books that I had to keep track of who’s related to whom. If we had a family tree, I’d have it all sorted out and this would be perfection!
Now, onto Playing Games! It’s a college romance with that classic opposites attract vibe, and, was it good! Blake Boden is your golden boy quarterback, with all the charm and a heart full of determination (aka golden retriever boyfriend energy). Lexi, the brainy, neurodivergent, dissertation-focused genius, does not have time for distractions. But then enters Blake, who’s out to prove that emotions are worth the risk. Their chemistry? 🔥 Off the charts! Add in some witty banter, a bit of a secret relationship, and lots of laughs, and you’ve got a recipe for a swoon-worthy read!
I loved seeing the dynamic between these two. Lexi’s internal struggle with emotions is real and relatable, and Blake is just... so patient (he falls first! 😍). The pacing was spot-on, and the moments of vulnerability really hit home. This book had just the right balance of spice 🌶️, laughs 😂, and feels 🥹. The perfect college romance with heart!
Tropes I’m living for:
🏈 Sports romance (Yes, please!)
💘 He falls first
💥 Opposites attract
🤫 Secret relationship
🤓 Neurodivergent heroine
Can’t wait for Ace and Julia’s book! The second-gen crew is just getting started, and I’m here for it. Bring on more Max Monroe!
April 7, 2025
Thank you netgally for sending me the ARC
Dnf 23%
This was not for me the MMC made me cringe and he loved the FMC from the first page because she was not like the other girls and didn't want him so as I said it wasn't for me
Dnf 23%
This was not for me the MMC made me cringe and he loved the FMC from the first page because she was not like the other girls and didn't want him so as I said it wasn't for me
Read
February 7, 2025He’s the star quarterback.
She’s the (neurodivergent) genius.
It’s a secret.
Now live and Free in Kindle Unlimited
🏈EBOOK: https://geni.us/PlayingGames_ebook
🏈PB: https://geni.us/PG_pb
TROPES YOU’LL LOVE:
🏈 New adult standalone romance
🤓 He’s the star quarterback. She’s the cute genius (and neurodivergent).
💘 Opposites attract
💕Intense first-love vibes
🫶 He falls first
🤫 Secret relationship
😂 Witty banter
🔥 Off-the-charts chemistry
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine (Reversed)
🛡️ Protective Hero
OTHER IMPORTANT INFO: Playing Games is available in paperback, ebook, and Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited program. Audio is currently in production and estimated to release in late March.
NOTE FROM MAX MONROE:
We can’t believe that we’re finally able to get Lexi Winslow’s book into your hands. Being able to write her book was one of the biggest honors. She’s such a complex, fascinating girl and it’s downright kismet that the guy who manages to grab her attention is the star quarterback of the Dickson Dragons. IYKYK. 😉 😉
Their love story is one of our favorites. Seriously. Blake Boden is this combination of fun-loving, adorable, strong, charming af, hot, protective hero that wears his heart on his sleeve in the best way.
FUN INSIGHT FOR READERS OF THE BILLIONAIRE BAD BOYS SERIES, WINSLOW SERIES, AND MAVERICKS SERIES: Some of your favorite characters of past books make appearances. Quinn Bailey, Thatch, Remy, the list goes on. It will truly feel like coming home. 🩷
Happy Reading!
XOXO,
Max & Monroe
She’s the (neurodivergent) genius.
It’s a secret.
Now live and Free in Kindle Unlimited
🏈EBOOK: https://geni.us/PlayingGames_ebook
🏈PB: https://geni.us/PG_pb
TROPES YOU’LL LOVE:
🏈 New adult standalone romance
🤓 He’s the star quarterback. She’s the cute genius (and neurodivergent).
💘 Opposites attract
💕Intense first-love vibes
🫶 He falls first
🤫 Secret relationship
😂 Witty banter
🔥 Off-the-charts chemistry
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine (Reversed)
🛡️ Protective Hero
OTHER IMPORTANT INFO: Playing Games is available in paperback, ebook, and Amazon’s Kindle Unlimited program. Audio is currently in production and estimated to release in late March.
NOTE FROM MAX MONROE:
We can’t believe that we’re finally able to get Lexi Winslow’s book into your hands. Being able to write her book was one of the biggest honors. She’s such a complex, fascinating girl and it’s downright kismet that the guy who manages to grab her attention is the star quarterback of the Dickson Dragons. IYKYK. 😉 😉
Their love story is one of our favorites. Seriously. Blake Boden is this combination of fun-loving, adorable, strong, charming af, hot, protective hero that wears his heart on his sleeve in the best way.
FUN INSIGHT FOR READERS OF THE BILLIONAIRE BAD BOYS SERIES, WINSLOW SERIES, AND MAVERICKS SERIES: Some of your favorite characters of past books make appearances. Quinn Bailey, Thatch, Remy, the list goes on. It will truly feel like coming home. 🩷
Happy Reading!
XOXO,
Max & Monroe
February 10, 2025
2.5*
The story sounded really good in theory but idk the characters didn’t speak to me.
Blake was the saving grace, he’s such a cutie. I wanna protect him from the world 😭
Lexi’s povs were rlly boring Icel. I didn’t really care for anything outside of the main characters.
I loved how doting and determined Blake was 🤭😋
The text messages were the highlight of the book.
Thank you NetGalley and Max Monroe for the ARC.
The story sounded really good in theory but idk the characters didn’t speak to me.
Blake was the saving grace, he’s such a cutie. I wanna protect him from the world 😭
Lexi’s povs were rlly boring Icel. I didn’t really care for anything outside of the main characters.
I loved how doting and determined Blake was 🤭😋
The text messages were the highlight of the book.
Thank you NetGalley and Max Monroe for the ARC.
February 8, 2025
Honestly, I was hooked on this book before chapter 1…right at the dedication! As an overthinking, spreadsheet loving, introverted engineer, I was all in with these characters!
Dickson University’s star quarterback and campus golden boy is used to winning on and off the field…until he meets the one woman who changes the game…
I loved Lexi and Blake! They were total opposites with amazing chemistry and funny banter. I found myself laughing out loud and smiling throughout the book. I really loved and appreciated the themes of acceptance in this book.
I loved how Lexi’s way of thinking was represented - it felt honest and authentic. She was so smart and snarky and I liked her confidence too. Blake was all in with Lexi - he fell so hard for her and I loved every minute. He was so sweet and supportive and accepting of Lexi.
I was excited for all the cameos and friends/family and I am really excited for the next book in the series!
✨What To Expect:
🏈 Sports (football star hero!)
💖 Secret dating 🧠 Neurodivergent Heroine 💕 Opposites attract 🦮 Golden retriever MMC 💙 He falls first 🫶 Longtime crush + intense first love
🤣Witty Banter
🌤️Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🛡️He’s Protective
💋She’s Snarky & Super Smart
Dickson University’s star quarterback and campus golden boy is used to winning on and off the field…until he meets the one woman who changes the game…
I loved Lexi and Blake! They were total opposites with amazing chemistry and funny banter. I found myself laughing out loud and smiling throughout the book. I really loved and appreciated the themes of acceptance in this book.
I loved how Lexi’s way of thinking was represented - it felt honest and authentic. She was so smart and snarky and I liked her confidence too. Blake was all in with Lexi - he fell so hard for her and I loved every minute. He was so sweet and supportive and accepting of Lexi.
I was excited for all the cameos and friends/family and I am really excited for the next book in the series!
✨What To Expect:
🏈 Sports (football star hero!)
💖 Secret dating 🧠 Neurodivergent Heroine 💕 Opposites attract 🦮 Golden retriever MMC 💙 He falls first 🫶 Longtime crush + intense first love
🤣Witty Banter
🌤️Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🛡️He’s Protective
💋She’s Snarky & Super Smart
February 9, 2025
Blake Boden makes me want to believe in love at first sight.
I love that we got a neurodivergent main character. I love that we got a cinnamon roll star quarterback. However, I didn't love how repetitive everything was. Even though this book is 100+ pages shorter than the first book in the series, it felt much longer to me because of that. Also, I get that Lexi has difficulty with emotions and with reading cues from others, but I just feel like she took advantage of Blake's kindness quite a bit. He was very sweet and understanding of her needs, but it felt like he was the only one putting in the effort 95% of the time. One example, him ALWAYS bringing food to her (and paying for it), meanwhile she never offered to do the same for him or offer something equivalent. It just felt a bit unfair sometimes. HE did not ever see it that way, but I just felt like he needed to ask more from her to prove that she wasn't just using him.
Overall, I enjoyed it but I didn't loooooooove it.
I love that we got a neurodivergent main character. I love that we got a cinnamon roll star quarterback. However, I didn't love how repetitive everything was. Even though this book is 100+ pages shorter than the first book in the series, it felt much longer to me because of that. Also, I get that Lexi has difficulty with emotions and with reading cues from others, but I just feel like she took advantage of Blake's kindness quite a bit. He was very sweet and understanding of her needs, but it felt like he was the only one putting in the effort 95% of the time. One example, him ALWAYS bringing food to her (and paying for it), meanwhile she never offered to do the same for him or offer something equivalent. It just felt a bit unfair sometimes. HE did not ever see it that way, but I just felt like he needed to ask more from her to prove that she wasn't just using him.
Overall, I enjoyed it but I didn't loooooooove it.
February 7, 2025
Lexi + Blake
We all remember super smart little Lexi from her mom's and her uncle's books. And now she's all grown up at 25 - almost done with University. She just has to finish her last thesis over the summer.
Blake is the new star quarterback at Dickson. And he's been in love with Lexi since he first saw her at one of those secret campus events.
Lexi being in her own neurodivergent research world most of the time, won't make it easy for Blake to win her over. But Lexi knows it's time to spread her wings a bit and ... live ... and love a little...
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN!
══════════════════
ADORABLE!
Beautiful second book in this second generation series!
Lexi and Blake are so adorable!
I love those he falls first things. He's so sweet and adorable and she's so ... lost. She doesn't know much about love and feelings. She has a hard time showing her family that she loves them. But she wants to change. She wants to try. And Blake is the perfect guy to do that with. He doesn't give up. So cute!
Of course we also meet all the others again. Can't wait for Ace and Julia's book next. And I already know I need Gunnar's (aka Thatch jr. #2) book soon as well.
PLAYING GAMES was another perfect addition to this new Winslow/Billionaire Bad Boys second generation Dickson University series. Adorable + funny + sparky + sexy + footbally + researchy + just beautiful! And also... THATCH!! Run to your nearest book dealer for your own Blake - this one is so mine!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
💜
May 25, 2025
To me this reads like a manual or guide book on the subject of neurodiversity; like it’s being narrated by the heroine especially when it veers into second-person. SO disappointing.
Her inner dialogue is excessively focused on her symptoms, so we’re told, ad nauseam, why she processes things like she does. I wish I was shown HOW she thought LIKE a neurodivergent instead of being told WHY she thinks like she does. (Future Beeg, you know what I mean, right🤭?)
Sooo much telling and hardly any showing.
His POV helped a bit, which meant I liked her only through his eyes.
She’s adorable that way and it felt right.
But, as much as I enjoyed him, she spoiled the book for me.
This is a next generation spin-off so we get to see many other characters from previous books - that was okay; perhaps a bit overdone with a lot of posturing and somewhat contrived/unnatural.
So, this is basically her throughout:
Because of my complex, neurodivergent chemical makeup, being caught off guard is almost akin to an extinction-level event. I’m a planner. A thinker. A certified head case of attention to detail confirmed by a neurologist and seven highly efficient screenings by the state of New York from the age of four onward.
Overandoverandoveragainandagain.
No, dude, no.
NTS
Neaten review
Her inner dialogue is excessively focused on her symptoms, so we’re told, ad nauseam, why she processes things like she does. I wish I was shown HOW she thought LIKE a neurodivergent instead of being told WHY she thinks like she does. (Future Beeg, you know what I mean, right🤭?)
Sooo much telling and hardly any showing.
His POV helped a bit, which meant I liked her only through his eyes.
She’s adorable that way and it felt right.
But, as much as I enjoyed him, she spoiled the book for me.
This is a next generation spin-off so we get to see many other characters from previous books - that was okay; perhaps a bit overdone with a lot of posturing and somewhat contrived/unnatural.
So, this is basically her throughout:
Because of my complex, neurodivergent chemical makeup, being caught off guard is almost akin to an extinction-level event. I’m a planner. A thinker. A certified head case of attention to detail confirmed by a neurologist and seven highly efficient screenings by the state of New York from the age of four onward.
Overandoverandoveragainandagain.
No, dude, no.
NTS
Neaten review
June 27, 2025
I was really hard for me to like Lexi.
January 30, 2025
Book two in the Dickson University series exceeded all my expectations. Ten fold! I loved Lexie and Blake together!!! Her quirky traits due to her Neurodivergence and Blakes complete acceptance of her was heartwarming. Finding her person, who will ultimately be her safe space comes with many funny ups and downs to Lexie understanding relationship concepts that don’t come naturally to her. The secondary family and friends from the first book are all present and even funnier in this one. We get an update on Scottie and Finn and teasers for Ace and Julia’s book which I am dying to read when it’s out.
NegGalley allowed me to read this in exchange for my review.
NegGalley allowed me to read this in exchange for my review.
January 24, 2025
This is my second book from these authors and I love it just as much as the first! Both were ARC’s and I feel really lucky. I was able to read both before they came out.
This one is a part of a series and I did not read the first book. I read this one as a standalone. But you can bet I’ve already got the first book queued up on Kindle right now..
I love all the characters and I absolutely love the representation here of autism love (or neurodivergence but I think it’s autism)
It’s very sweetly done
The main guy is so sweet and understand and loyal while letting his girl work through it all even when it’s killing him.
This one is a part of a series and I did not read the first book. I read this one as a standalone. But you can bet I’ve already got the first book queued up on Kindle right now..
I love all the characters and I absolutely love the representation here of autism love (or neurodivergence but I think it’s autism)
It’s very sweetly done
The main guy is so sweet and understand and loyal while letting his girl work through it all even when it’s killing him.
January 30, 2025
Review: Playing Games by Max Monroe
⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️
Playing Games is a college sports romance that follows a football star and the coach’s daughter in a forbidden relationship. While this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone—though the constant crossover references made it feel like I was missing an inside joke.
Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me. The humor didn’t land, and the writing felt forced and very juvenile. And the moment I read, “I’ve had more pu$$y than Garfield,” I officially checked out. If you love college romances, there are definitely stronger options out there.
Thank you to the authors and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️
Playing Games is a college sports romance that follows a football star and the coach’s daughter in a forbidden relationship. While this book is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone—though the constant crossover references made it feel like I was missing an inside joke.
Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me. The humor didn’t land, and the writing felt forced and very juvenile. And the moment I read, “I’ve had more pu$$y than Garfield,” I officially checked out. If you love college romances, there are definitely stronger options out there.
Thank you to the authors and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Read
December 17, 2025Just finished Scottie and Finn and even thought I wish it was Ace and Julia, I can’t wait for Blake and Lexi!
February 11, 2025
Such a great story to introduce me to Max Monroe’s books.
It is a prequel to the Dickerson University Series which I will now be reading for sure.
Lexi and Blake are an amazing couple, so perfect together.
This book had me in all the feels while laughing along the way.
Blake falls first and hard. This is a favorite trope of mine. He’s lusting after Lexi and refuses to give up. He’s the football star quarterback. He can get any girl he wants, except Lexi. She is so focused on her dissertation and finishing college that she doesn’t pay attention to much else. She has decided though she wants to break out of her shell and start living life.
Blake is her answer. He is supportive and patient with Lexi as she builds up walls to keep him out. He does not give up.
This story has funny parts, angsty, a golden retriever MMC, opposites attach, and secret dating what more could you ask for?
The characters are loveable and captivating. Highly recommended book! I hope it comes to audio it is one I would listen to!
It is a prequel to the Dickerson University Series which I will now be reading for sure.
Lexi and Blake are an amazing couple, so perfect together.
This book had me in all the feels while laughing along the way.
Blake falls first and hard. This is a favorite trope of mine. He’s lusting after Lexi and refuses to give up. He’s the football star quarterback. He can get any girl he wants, except Lexi. She is so focused on her dissertation and finishing college that she doesn’t pay attention to much else. She has decided though she wants to break out of her shell and start living life.
Blake is her answer. He is supportive and patient with Lexi as she builds up walls to keep him out. He does not give up.
This story has funny parts, angsty, a golden retriever MMC, opposites attach, and secret dating what more could you ask for?
The characters are loveable and captivating. Highly recommended book! I hope it comes to audio it is one I would listen to!
March 1, 2025
Wow, this was yet another highly enjoyable read for me! It was both interesting and informative to experience all kinds of "experiment" in the name of love with Lexi, our wickedly humorous, exceptionally smart, and the perfect autistic rep. She knew her brain worked differently than most people and needed more time to learn about the abstract concept of love, something that did not make sense at all. Then there was Blake, the popular quarterback star at Dickson U, who seemed to have a crush on Lexi when he first laid eyes on her but later proved that he did mean it when he said he was going to win her heart...however long it might take. It was really touching to see how much Blake cared about Lexi and tried so hard to understand how her mind operated as if he wanted to speak her language only both of them knew. The amount of patience, compassion, and pure admiration Blake showed us was what made him the flawless boyfriend material. That said, even though Lexi and Blake's HEA wasn't a surprise, the "how" they got from one-sided friends to mutually smitten couple was the GOLD in this book, and that was why I would TOTALLY RECOMMEND Playing Games to you. Please, do yourself a favor, and go one-click this one!
***Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for generously providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
***Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for generously providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
February 8, 2025
“Playing Games” has one of my favorite couple combos in a romance book—the popular guy and the wickedly smart girl. And Max Monroe levels it up with both characters. Blake is the all-star football player at Dickson University, and Lexi is a neurodivergent genius. The story works as a standalone, but those following this universe will be pleased to know that Lexi and Blake are well-matched.
Blake understands Lexi and embraces all of her. I love that he falls first. How patient he was with her. The spice scenes were steamy but very sweet, too. A big part of the story is how Max Monroe brings the reader into Lexi's thought process as she navigates her relationship with Blake.
“Playing Games” is a plot-driven story. I always enjoy Max Monroe’s humor and the fast-paced dialogue exchanges in all the books, and this one had that and some heartfelt moments, too. It was a good read, and I liked the HEA.
Blake understands Lexi and embraces all of her. I love that he falls first. How patient he was with her. The spice scenes were steamy but very sweet, too. A big part of the story is how Max Monroe brings the reader into Lexi's thought process as she navigates her relationship with Blake.
“Playing Games” is a plot-driven story. I always enjoy Max Monroe’s humor and the fast-paced dialogue exchanges in all the books, and this one had that and some heartfelt moments, too. It was a good read, and I liked the HEA.
February 8, 2025
Playing Games follows two characters from completely different worlds—one rooted in science, the other in football. While the premise had potential, the characters felt too opposite to create a believable connection.
I struggled to connect emotionally with either protagonist, and the writing felt too juvenile for my taste. Additionally, the heavy focus on both science and football didn’t appeal to me, making it hard to stay engaged. However, I think readers who enjoy stories featuring neurodivergent characters and scientific themes might find more to appreciate. This one just wasn’t for me.
** Thank you Net Galley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review **
I struggled to connect emotionally with either protagonist, and the writing felt too juvenile for my taste. Additionally, the heavy focus on both science and football didn’t appeal to me, making it hard to stay engaged. However, I think readers who enjoy stories featuring neurodivergent characters and scientific themes might find more to appreciate. This one just wasn’t for me.
** Thank you Net Galley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review **
February 24, 2025
This is my third Max Monroe book, and I have to say that they have become a must-read author for me. I loved Blake Boden and Lexi Winslow. Blake Boden, Dickson University's star quarterback, seems to have it all, but he has his sights set on Lexi Winslow. Blake knew the moment he saw her that he wanted to marry her someday and was determined to prove he was worth the risk. It was all in their banter. I truly loved them. I am looking forward to reading the next book!!
Thank you @authormaxmonroe and @netgalley for the e-ARC.
Thank you @authormaxmonroe and @netgalley for the e-ARC.
February 8, 2025
This book was truly soo good.
January 26, 2025
ARC review from NetGalley
I loved diving into the Dickson university series. Yes this can be read as a standalone, but now knowing that a lot of the people go back into previous books and series makes me want to take a nose dive into Max Monroe books.
Blake gives full golden retriever energy and knowing he will do everything he can to win in the end
Lexi being neurodivergent has to learn that although her life has been a series of only facts, and only things that can be backed by science. Eventually our emotional needs will win.
I loved diving into the Dickson university series. Yes this can be read as a standalone, but now knowing that a lot of the people go back into previous books and series makes me want to take a nose dive into Max Monroe books.
Blake gives full golden retriever energy and knowing he will do everything he can to win in the end
Lexi being neurodivergent has to learn that although her life has been a series of only facts, and only things that can be backed by science. Eventually our emotional needs will win.
January 31, 2025
After reading the first book in this series, I wasn't too sure about this next one, but it was an arc, so I was committed to reading it. I am so glad I did. I really enjoyed this book about golden boy quarterback Blake Boden and neurodivergent, brainy, older, Lexi Winslow. He didn't fit into her plans, but he was determined to be there. Blake was infatuated with Lexi as soon as he met her in this series first book, but she did not give him the time of day.
Blake kept showing up at her lab and pursuing her until he wore her down. He was so patient with her as she figured out her feelings. For her, she didn't even know if she could love someone romantically.
I was glad to see the friend group in this story, as well. Plus. there was more with Scottie and her issue, which seems like it may be more of a happy ending for her.
Looking forward to Ace and Julia's story next!
Thank you to Hambright PR and the authors for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blake kept showing up at her lab and pursuing her until he wore her down. He was so patient with her as she figured out her feelings. For her, she didn't even know if she could love someone romantically.
I was glad to see the friend group in this story, as well. Plus. there was more with Scottie and her issue, which seems like it may be more of a happy ending for her.
Looking forward to Ace and Julia's story next!
Thank you to Hambright PR and the authors for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 28, 2025
RATING : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️
April 2, 2025
Spice: 2
Tropes:
He Falls First
Reverse age gap
autistic rep
MMC football player
FMC Doctorate grad student
secret relationship
Dual POV
When I finished reading Learning Curve I literally wrote in my review "Blake I hope you get the 'girl you're going to marry'" and while there was no marriage in Playing Games.... Blake, I'm 100% glad this book was about you! I've been rooting for Blake since book 1 and he got his moment! Now, I'm hoping Ace and Julia are book 3!
Blake's just wrapped up his sophomore or junior year of college- where he's the star quarterback of the Dickson University football team. But what I love about Blake, he's not your stereotypical jock. He's kind, sober, sweet, friends with everyone he meets, buys pizza out of dorm rooms, a personal Door Dash delivery guy, and has been in love with Lexi since the day he met eyes on her. He literally said he was going to marry her the first time he saw her. It's the beginning of summer and while Blake is staying on campus for football, he realizes Lex is too- finishing up her doctorate. Seeing it as a challenge- Blake's mission is to convince Lex to go out with him, and realize he's her one too.
Lexi Winslow. Part of the infamous Winslow family, is working on her 2nd doctorate at Dickson. Yep, the girl is a genius, runs the secret society Double C, creates her own apps, and is autistic. Emotions are hard to navigate and/or understand for Lex. When Blake starts pursing her, she has difficult understanding why her body reacts to him the way it does. But Blake is patient and understanding, and that may just convince Lex, as well as her compatibility app she created, to give Blake a chance.
I loved Blake and Lex. Their story was sweet, heart clutching, and beautiful. Lex is probably my current favorite fmc of Dickson right now! Now bring on book 3!
Tropes:
He Falls First
Reverse age gap
autistic rep
MMC football player
FMC Doctorate grad student
secret relationship
Dual POV
When I finished reading Learning Curve I literally wrote in my review "Blake I hope you get the 'girl you're going to marry'" and while there was no marriage in Playing Games.... Blake, I'm 100% glad this book was about you! I've been rooting for Blake since book 1 and he got his moment! Now, I'm hoping Ace and Julia are book 3!
Blake's just wrapped up his sophomore or junior year of college- where he's the star quarterback of the Dickson University football team. But what I love about Blake, he's not your stereotypical jock. He's kind, sober, sweet, friends with everyone he meets, buys pizza out of dorm rooms, a personal Door Dash delivery guy, and has been in love with Lexi since the day he met eyes on her. He literally said he was going to marry her the first time he saw her. It's the beginning of summer and while Blake is staying on campus for football, he realizes Lex is too- finishing up her doctorate. Seeing it as a challenge- Blake's mission is to convince Lex to go out with him, and realize he's her one too.
Lexi Winslow. Part of the infamous Winslow family, is working on her 2nd doctorate at Dickson. Yep, the girl is a genius, runs the secret society Double C, creates her own apps, and is autistic. Emotions are hard to navigate and/or understand for Lex. When Blake starts pursing her, she has difficult understanding why her body reacts to him the way it does. But Blake is patient and understanding, and that may just convince Lex, as well as her compatibility app she created, to give Blake a chance.
I loved Blake and Lex. Their story was sweet, heart clutching, and beautiful. Lex is probably my current favorite fmc of Dickson right now! Now bring on book 3!
February 9, 2025
If you love a swoony, golden retriever, quarterback book boyfriend, this book is definitely for you! 🤭
This was such a fun read that I quite enjoyed! My highlight of this book was definitely our MMC, Blake Boden 😍 Not only is he the star quarterback, but he has the best heart and he falls first and he falls hard… Who doesn’t love that in a romance novel 🤭 He was honestly so perfect and he was my favorite part of the book! I quite enjoyed the premise of this book, with the opposites attract and the secret relationship! It worked really well for the characters and the story being told! I also loved how this felt like a college romance, which really helped put the character’s actions in perspective!
As for our FMC Lexi, I love how she was neurodivergent and how she was 100% herself! She is so smart and so hardworking, but I loved her wit and how she didn’t take anyone’s bullshit. She fit really well with Blake and I really enjoyed how opposite they were, but they worked together well, and you could feel the love they had for one another! My only thing that bothered me was how against going out in public that Lexi was… I found it a little repetitive at times, but I really enjoyed them together overall!
This story was so fun and was such a great mix of heartwarming as well as spice (the perfect amount!) and laughs! I really enjoyed the characters, and I’m really excited to see where the rest of the series and the characters go! I will say, this book is marketed as a standalone, and it can definitely be read as one, however, I wish I read the first book in the series first as I feel like I would have understood some of the context and the characters backstories a little more!
Thank you Max Monroe and Hamburg PR for this book! Out now! 🫶
4⭐️
This was such a fun read that I quite enjoyed! My highlight of this book was definitely our MMC, Blake Boden 😍 Not only is he the star quarterback, but he has the best heart and he falls first and he falls hard… Who doesn’t love that in a romance novel 🤭 He was honestly so perfect and he was my favorite part of the book! I quite enjoyed the premise of this book, with the opposites attract and the secret relationship! It worked really well for the characters and the story being told! I also loved how this felt like a college romance, which really helped put the character’s actions in perspective!
As for our FMC Lexi, I love how she was neurodivergent and how she was 100% herself! She is so smart and so hardworking, but I loved her wit and how she didn’t take anyone’s bullshit. She fit really well with Blake and I really enjoyed how opposite they were, but they worked together well, and you could feel the love they had for one another! My only thing that bothered me was how against going out in public that Lexi was… I found it a little repetitive at times, but I really enjoyed them together overall!
This story was so fun and was such a great mix of heartwarming as well as spice (the perfect amount!) and laughs! I really enjoyed the characters, and I’m really excited to see where the rest of the series and the characters go! I will say, this book is marketed as a standalone, and it can definitely be read as one, however, I wish I read the first book in the series first as I feel like I would have understood some of the context and the characters backstories a little more!
Thank you Max Monroe and Hamburg PR for this book! Out now! 🫶
4⭐️
January 28, 2025
Max Monroe made my short list to must read last year after my first time book by them. Now I’m hooked and they never disappoint me!
I loved book one and now I’m trying to figure out which couple I love more… Fin and Scottie or Blake and Lexi.
Lexi Winslow is the leader of the secret club at Dickson University. And Blake has been infatuated with her for quite some time. She would never give him the time of day until she didn’t have a choice.
The chemistry and connection is so authentic and oh so real between both Blake and Lexi it was hard not to root for them. The fact that Blake doesn’t push is remarkable with her need to calculate all the things with stats, even when it comes to emotions.
The relatability I found to Blake was uncanny. And with Lexis autistic nature, she was depicted in such a vulnerable and honest way that these two just had a bond I loved and adored. So well written in every sense of the way.
This whole cast of characters are some of my favorite to date in a series and I loved coming back Dickson University and being caught up in their world.
Spicy, sweet and a nice neurodivergent representation makes this one a triple threat in getting us that well rounded love story we all crave.
Read if you love:
🏈He’s the star quarterback.
🤓She’s the cute genius (and neurodivergent).
💘 Opposites attract
💕Intense first-love vibes
🫶 He falls first
🤫 Secret relationship
😂 Witty banter
🔥 Off-the-charts chemistry
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine (Reversed)
🛡️ Protective Hero
I loved book one and now I’m trying to figure out which couple I love more… Fin and Scottie or Blake and Lexi.
Lexi Winslow is the leader of the secret club at Dickson University. And Blake has been infatuated with her for quite some time. She would never give him the time of day until she didn’t have a choice.
The chemistry and connection is so authentic and oh so real between both Blake and Lexi it was hard not to root for them. The fact that Blake doesn’t push is remarkable with her need to calculate all the things with stats, even when it comes to emotions.
The relatability I found to Blake was uncanny. And with Lexis autistic nature, she was depicted in such a vulnerable and honest way that these two just had a bond I loved and adored. So well written in every sense of the way.
This whole cast of characters are some of my favorite to date in a series and I loved coming back Dickson University and being caught up in their world.
Spicy, sweet and a nice neurodivergent representation makes this one a triple threat in getting us that well rounded love story we all crave.
Read if you love:
🏈He’s the star quarterback.
🤓She’s the cute genius (and neurodivergent).
💘 Opposites attract
💕Intense first-love vibes
🫶 He falls first
🤫 Secret relationship
😂 Witty banter
🔥 Off-the-charts chemistry
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine (Reversed)
🛡️ Protective Hero
February 20, 2025
„Playing Games“ is a novel and the second installment in the Dickson University series by Max Monroe.
This is my second book (after Meet me at Midnight) by Max Monroe and I ate it upppp. 😩 Finished it in less than 24 hours. I love a feel-good sports romance and this was exactly what I needed after reading some heavy-topic books.
Playing Games is a spicy college romance which follows the story of Blake who is a popular, handsome and extroverted quarterback and Lexi, an intelligent, introverted chem-nerd. The POVs change from his to hers in every chapter which allows the reader to get to know their individual characters really well while they are getting to know each other.
In this novel, opposites attract and oh boy, how they do. 🥵 While he is used to getting every girl he wants, she is the only one who is not interested. While Lexi is the rational one, always focused on statistics and analytics (even regarding her love life), Blake is more on the emotional side. While she is very much a control freak, he is the one who can make her feel comfortable being OUT of control. On top of that, I love romance where the MMC falls first 🦋🥰 and that was a great example for that.
The e-arc was provided by NetGalley and Max Monroe LLC in exchange for an honest review - thank you so much! ☺️
This is my second book (after Meet me at Midnight) by Max Monroe and I ate it upppp. 😩 Finished it in less than 24 hours. I love a feel-good sports romance and this was exactly what I needed after reading some heavy-topic books.
Playing Games is a spicy college romance which follows the story of Blake who is a popular, handsome and extroverted quarterback and Lexi, an intelligent, introverted chem-nerd. The POVs change from his to hers in every chapter which allows the reader to get to know their individual characters really well while they are getting to know each other.
In this novel, opposites attract and oh boy, how they do. 🥵 While he is used to getting every girl he wants, she is the only one who is not interested. While Lexi is the rational one, always focused on statistics and analytics (even regarding her love life), Blake is more on the emotional side. While she is very much a control freak, he is the one who can make her feel comfortable being OUT of control. On top of that, I love romance where the MMC falls first 🦋🥰 and that was a great example for that.
The e-arc was provided by NetGalley and Max Monroe LLC in exchange for an honest review - thank you so much! ☺️
February 10, 2025
Book review: Playing Games by Max Monroe 🏈💻💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This was the first book I read by Max Monroe and I LOVED it. It’s the second book of her Dickson University series, but can also be read as a standalone.
It’s a college romance with opposites attract and he fell first tropes. The story follows Lexi, a neurodivergent fmc, who has no time for any distractions and hates the unknown, and the mmc, Blake, a charming quarterback with golden retriever energy determined to show her that taking risking the unknown might be worth it.
The banter and chemistry between the characters was honestly perfection. I loved how much Blame understood how Lexi is and how much patience he had. He was always so sweet with her 😭💕 I was also all for Lexi’s confidence and honesty throughout the book.
The book was written so well, it was fast-paced, it has humor, spice, and it was 👌🏻✨
Thank you to Hambright PR and Max Monroe for the arc 🫶🏻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This was the first book I read by Max Monroe and I LOVED it. It’s the second book of her Dickson University series, but can also be read as a standalone.
It’s a college romance with opposites attract and he fell first tropes. The story follows Lexi, a neurodivergent fmc, who has no time for any distractions and hates the unknown, and the mmc, Blake, a charming quarterback with golden retriever energy determined to show her that taking risking the unknown might be worth it.
The banter and chemistry between the characters was honestly perfection. I loved how much Blame understood how Lexi is and how much patience he had. He was always so sweet with her 😭💕 I was also all for Lexi’s confidence and honesty throughout the book.
The book was written so well, it was fast-paced, it has humor, spice, and it was 👌🏻✨
Thank you to Hambright PR and Max Monroe for the arc 🫶🏻
March 3, 2025
Don't you love when you find an author that has giant backlist for you to binge?!? I discovered Max Monroe through book 1 of the Dickson University series and I loved both of these books so much that I can't wait to go back and read through the first gen books!! I am dying to binge them all.
But back to Playing Games! We've got an opposites attract trope that hits the spot! Blake Boden is your steretypical charming happy go lucky, golden retriever quarterback. And our girl Lexi is our over achieving, neurodiverent, don't have time for distractions FMC. And they come together so beautifully!
The chemistry and banter between them is chefs kiss and if you know me, you know I love an epic he falls first! Cannot recommend this one enough!
You'll love this if you enjoy:
🏈 Sports romance (Yes, please!)
💜 He falls first
🏈 Opposites attract
💜 Secret relationship
🏈 Neurodivergent FMC
💜 Golden Retriever MMC
But back to Playing Games! We've got an opposites attract trope that hits the spot! Blake Boden is your steretypical charming happy go lucky, golden retriever quarterback. And our girl Lexi is our over achieving, neurodiverent, don't have time for distractions FMC. And they come together so beautifully!
The chemistry and banter between them is chefs kiss and if you know me, you know I love an epic he falls first! Cannot recommend this one enough!
You'll love this if you enjoy:
🏈 Sports romance (Yes, please!)
💜 He falls first
🏈 Opposites attract
💜 Secret relationship
🏈 Neurodivergent FMC
💜 Golden Retriever MMC
March 25, 2025
2.5 stars ⭐️ is what I’m giving this book and I really wish I could give it 4. When I started it, I love it! I love how the author made Lexi’s character, with her high IQ, instead of making her out to be “not like others and get made fun of.” Then it just hit a point, and that was around the 60+ page (and it goes until 302), where it became ALL ABOUT LEXI. Her POV’s were boring as heck, droned on and on and on. And on.🙄😂
This book could’ve been an easy 164 page book and would have hit home. I’m only giving it 2.5 because I adore Blake. I wanted him to tell Lexi all sorts of things but noooo, the author kept his character kind. I’m not talking the basic kindness, this kid went above and beyond. For nothing. The author should have had him with a stronger backbone at some point.
Not sure why the author felt the need to make their friend group, like 30 people, I couldn’t keep up with all their names.
Anyhoo, disappointed.😒
This book could’ve been an easy 164 page book and would have hit home. I’m only giving it 2.5 because I adore Blake. I wanted him to tell Lexi all sorts of things but noooo, the author kept his character kind. I’m not talking the basic kindness, this kid went above and beyond. For nothing. The author should have had him with a stronger backbone at some point.
Not sure why the author felt the need to make their friend group, like 30 people, I couldn’t keep up with all their names.
Anyhoo, disappointed.😒
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