Full Tilt

Love The Game

by Becca Seymour

Camden Crawford knows how to take a hit.

As the thirtysomething captain of the Exeter Seagulls, he’s built a career on strength, silence, and shielding his emotions as ruthlessly as he does his teammates. But when an injury rocks his team—and a series of frustrating media storms threaten to unravel his legacy—Cam finds himself one mistake away from losing everything he’s worked for. The last thing he needs is
a distraction.

Enter Brent sunshine in tattooed skin, newly settled in Exeter, and a little too perceptive for Cam’s comfort.

Brent came to England chasing purpose. What he didn’t expect was a brooding rugby player with eyes like winter and walls like stone. But the chemistry? Immediate. Irresistible. And very, very mutual. Brent isn’t afraid to get under Camden’s skin—and he’s definitely not afraid to stay there.

When a one-time tattoo consult turns into stolen kisses, slow mornings, and a summer of something that feels a lot like more, both men are forced to face the Falling for each other wasn’t in the game plan. And neither is what happens when the spotlight turns on their relationship.

With mounting pressure, cross-continental tours, and past insecurities clawing their way to the surface, Camden has to decide if love is a risk he’s finally ready to take. And Brent? He’s ready to prove that he’s not just a distraction—he’s the reason to stay.

A swoony, slow-burn MM sports romance full of banter, bruises, and unexpected tenderness. grumpy/sunshine vibes, emotional intimacy, found family, a meddling little brother, and the hottest “oops, I sent you a sex tape by accident” moment in romance.

Full Tilt is book five in a brand-new sports romance shared world. Featuring books from Willow Thomas, Becca Steele, Jodi Oliver, EM Denning, Becca Jackson, EM Lindsey, and Cora Rose.

Genres: M M Romance, Sports, Romance, Sports Romance, Contemporary, Slow Burn, LGBT

294 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 19, 2025

About the author

Becca Seymour is a British/Aussie author and the #1 gay romance best seller of the True-Blue series. Known for "steamy and endearing" and "emotionally profound love stories" (InD'tale Magazine) her books have been nominated for multiple RONE Awards.

Becca has a sweet tooth for marshmallow-hearted monsters, swoon-worthy supernatural studs, and everyday guys and basketball players with hearts of gold. If you like your MM romance sweet, spicy, and occasionally action-packed, slip into stalker mode and fall hard for her True-Blue and Minnesota Eagles men—and maybe a shifter or monster two.

Monsters & Mates
Solan | Kael | Varek

Zone Defense

No Take Backs | No More Secrets | No Wrong Moves | No Backing Down


Fast Break

Rules, Schmules! | Facts, Smacts! | Regular Smegular! | Easy, Schmeasy!


True-Blue 
Let Me Show You | I’ve Got You | Becoming Us | Thinking It Over | Always For You | It’s Not You | Our First & Last | Next For Us


Outback Boys 

Stumble | Bounce | Wobble


Fangs & Felons

Thicker Than Water | Weaker Than Instinct | Brighter Than Fear | Stronger Than Fate | Softer Than Stone


Stand-Alone Contemporary

Not Used To Cute | High Alert | Realigned | Amalgamated | Under the Blazing Stars | Best Kind of Awkward | Tastes Like Sugar | Caden & Theo | Full Tilt


REVIEWS:
"WOW! Simply, Wow! A funny, steamy and endearing story that should be put into your family of books. Something that you can read over and over again when you need a pick me up." The Book Fairy Reviews

"An intense connection that smolders" - JayReads
"This book was a slow burn and I loved it." - Steamy Book Momma

"Characters to pull for, a romance to give you feels, and enough steam to keep you turning pages..." - Romantic Reads and Such

"Emotionally profound love story with many laugh aloud moments." - InD'tale Magazine

"Becca had me cracking up laughing and smiling ear to ear." - HeidiLynns BookReviews

Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved how English it was, and I'm from the border of the West Midlands, plus I know Exeter really well so it was such a comfort read.

I really liked Cam and Brent together. Brent just has such calm energy and he's exactly what Cam needs so he can be himself.

The wedding scene for Cam's brother reminded me of literally every wedding I've been too, especially the questionable dance moves 😂

Also loved all the rugby content! I always watch the Six Nations and whenever England play New Zealand and it was just really engaging to see Cam in his element and Brent being the steady rock he can rely on.

I also really loved Brent's brother, Cosmo, and I can't wait to read his story in Becca Jackson's Puck Shots! I also kinda want Lachie's story too...

Definitely excited to read the rest of this multi author series!

*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review

[⋆｡°✮ Lucy InTheSky ✮°｡⋆ · Rating 2 out of 5]

My god, I could hardly finish this one, I was bored out of my mind.

I don’t even know how to rate this. Story wise it's 2⭐, if I'm objective it's 3⭐, so I'll make it 2.75⭐ and round it down.

It’s a decent book and I’m sure a lot of readers would enjoy it. But for me it’s one of the most boring and uneventful stories in this series. Whatever magic was building in the first half was completely erased in the second and in the end I don’t think it was really worth reading 300 pages of it.

🟣 Rugby captain / a tattoo artist
🟡 British / American
🟢 Both gay
🔵 Age gap 30/31
🟣 The captain is enormous, the other guy tall, but not as bulky, he can still lift the captain up, so that was a perk
🌶️ Really good until 50%; rimming, oral, penetrative; both vers --> excl t/b (bigger)

Brent is an American who moved to Exeter about eight years ago and is now in the process of buying the tattoo studio Black Salt Ink. The previous owner had a famous client, Camden Crawford, who's a local star rugby player, extremely guarded, cautious, and suspicious of any new people coming into his life.

Camden was a bit too guarded for my taste. A large part of the story revolves around his fear that Brent might sell his story or photos to the press or otherwise take advantage of him and Camden gives Brent a chance only when he realizes that Camden knows Brent's younger brother.

I understand being careful, and at first it worked, because Brent earning Camden's trust made sense, but the constant focus on the media was too much. It got to the point where Brent was panicking as soon as word got out that they were dating. He was pacifying Camden at every turn.

I really loved everything leading up to their first kiss and night together, though. That part was great. But halfway through the book most of the things are already covered and the other 150 pages were like a filler, just talking about everyday things they're doing, throwing in a lot of side characters and a little bit of rugby here and there, besides, Brent managed to finally do a half-tattoo on Camden at the end when the point of the whole story was about them meeting because Brent was supposed to do Camden's full sleeve.



The chemistry just vanished in the second half. No matter how the author tried, she couldn't give Brent and Camden that initial spark back. It wasn't there. Desperately trying to put them together and give them this forever feeling and it just didn't fit.

The story constantly talks about how it's hitting them both, how this or that feels, they're talking about it too much and they're almost handling each other in gloves, plus, Brent gets to bag Camden a bit too soon.

I know exactly what pulled me in at first, it was a big guy finally meeting a man who could handle him, bottoming all the time and I was hoping for that real unwinding, him really letting go, but the way everything was told made me want to go stand barefoot in the snow just to wake myself up.

A big missed opportunity : the accidental voicemail, and going from there. Absolutely nothing happened with that one. I honestly thought we were going to really spice things up and let Camden fully step into his real self, because that's what Camden's character needed, he needed a dominating partner, he needed to be handled. Brent became too mellow.
They were more like pensioners in the end. (No, couldn't be right, even pensioners have more fun.)

[Jane aka Coughy019 (Safety info included) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes: grumpy/sunshine, found family
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: media harrassment, sports injuries
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: once they meet, neither of them are with anyone else.

4.5 stars

Camden is 31 and he's a professional rugby player in England. He's the captain. He has been out as gay for many years. In the past a hookup sold his story to the media and Cam got a lot of attention over it, and it's scarred him and made him even more reserved and media shy. He's always been a private person but now his privacy is of the utmost importance. He doesn't hook up often. He's a quiet grump. He doesn't like meeting new people. He's got a tattoo guy that he's very loyal to, and that guy is selling and moving, so he sets up a meet between Cam and the new guy, Brent.

Brent is 29. He's American but he's been in England for almost 8 years. He's the oldest child of a big family and he's dealt with a lot of chaos and been a steady force throughout his life. Cam and Brent have sparks, but Cam is reluctant to start anything. But every time they interact, Brent keeps proving himself as solid, trustworthy, supportive and calming. They given to their attraction and they just enjoy spending time with each other, they are a really good match and they meet each other's needs. The Brent is a bit more of the giving partner as Cam is struggling with more.

This was a really good book. I love a good grump, and Camden was a great one. I really loved the emotional connection that Brent and Cam had. They fit so well together and Cam needed Brent's presence so much, he made Cam's life so much better. And Cam gave Brent family and someone to take care of and find peace with. This was a very emotionally mature book. There were struggles, but the couple were solid throughout it. This is the kind of couple where I love their love. And I appreciated the humor and the family hijinx.


Some notable moments:

I love that Cam is intimidating, and made fun of but in a 'they still respect you' way. "“Whatever.” He sighs. “Perhaps I’ll send it to the team chat instead. Rather than finding this”—he waves his hand in my general direction—“a thirst trap, they’ll see the tragedy as God intended.” I snort as he smirks. “They already think I sleep hanging upside down in a cold cellar. Not sure they need any more proof of just how tragic I am.” “True.” Lachie rolls his eyes. “But they respect the hell out of you, so it’s probably a very majestic cold cellar. Big, echoey. Fancy torch lighting.”"

This is the nicest and healthiest reason for a secret relationship. "“You gonna tell him about us?” he asks quietly. I exhale, then nod. “Yeah. I want to. Cosmo, my family—they’d love you.” Camden doesn’t look away, but something in his posture tenses just slightly. “But,” I add gently, “I also get that this… whatever it is… it’s still early. No labels. No pressure. I don’t want you feeling exposed before you’re ready.” His brows pinch slightly. “You sure?” “Positive.” I nudge his knee with mine. “I’m not hiding you. I’m protecting what this is. Whatever we’re building—it matters to me. And I want it to be ours before it becomes anyone else’s.”"

Cosmo is hilarious. I'm definitely going to have to read his book. "I shoot Cosmo a text. Me: Hey. Got a sec? His response comes in milliseconds. Cosmo: Is someone dying? Am *I* dying?? Why do you sound ominous?"


*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.

**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.

[Monikat · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great grumpy - sunshine, wholesome falling in love story. Slow burning embers, this is so sweet. A rugby player and a tattoo artist. Camden is so afraid to be seen out and Brent aching to know him better. Those begining chapters give just enough to hope. I like the writing style and voice. I like that the MC's talk to us as friends. The funny stuff is funny and we get a front row seat to them falling in love, problems and all. Plus, I love Brit books😉.
Super low angst, a smooth glide into a beautiful story.

*Cosmo absolutely steals the show. 🤣🌈🤣🌈🤣🌈🤣🌈🤣🌈🤣
So glad his book is next!!!

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful hug of a story with mature thoughtful characters who genuinely like and support each other. For some reason, I find that authors of MM romance do this so much better than MF romance. 🤷🏻‍♀️

(Also, this cover is terrible and I wish the authors of mm fiction would choose covers that give their work more respect than just a hot shirtless guy.).

Camden is a 31 yr old professional well-known English rugby player who meets Brant (29), who is to be his new tattoo artist. Cam hates meeting new people and wants nothing to do with this, but his current guy is leaving for the states and selling his shop to Brent, so he has no choice. Lol.

Brent is American, has been in England for about 8 yrs, but is new to town. Brent is a big guy as well, but not rugby big, tatted, has a nose ring, ear piercings, and generally a laid back vibe.

Camden has been burned in the past and values his privacy above everything. He is loyal, the captain of his team, and soft under all of his giant tough exterior. When Brent sees Camden, he can see his beyond his protective shell and is drawn to help him.

The tension comes from them each feeling and acknowledging that initial spark and then nurturing it while also learning to trust each other. It is primarily Cam’s story of overcoming his valid concerns about trust and also a bit about feeling worthy of love. I loved how they were each emotionally available for the other.

I adored these two!

❤️ No third act breakup.
🗣️Communication - I love how these two just get each other. There is no annoying miscommunication or misunderstanding.
💗 Character growth/small moments - We can see Cam’s trust grow and we can tell that Brent is intentional about earning that trust. These are two strong evenly matched mature characters. This story is low on plot but big on character development/growth.
🤗Low angst
☀️grumpy/sunshine
🏉. Rugby captain/tattoo artist
☺️Hurt/comfort - Brent understands why Cam has trust issues and supports him; there is so much mutual respect. Cam struggles with the pressures of being team captain, feels the need to be in charge and in control, but wants and needs someone to support and comfort him. Brent is all about that.
🏳️‍🌈Both are gay and out. Both families are supportive, no homophobia, but there is talk about how Cam’s privacy has been invaded/sold to the media in the past and how he’s an advocate for gay athletes.
🌶️. This is a moderate burn w the first kiss around 40% and then it moves from there. I loved their scenes together and they added to the story.
🫣No OM drama. Neither is portrayed as a manwhore; it’s been a while for both. There is no ex drama at all. There is one American rugby player that shows up at the end who is flirty w Cam, but our couple is secure and all is fine.
👥Dual POV; HEA - engagement in epilogue, 5 yrs later. Loved the epilogue 🥹

I really loved how the bulk of the story took place over several months, so we got to see them fall in love and the story didn’t drag… and then we got to see them 5 yrs down the road and know that they made it. Love it when authors do this.

Favorite parts/Spoilers ‼️ (no order):
- when they first meet in the tattoo place and Brent can feel how tense Cam is but just rolls w it.
- how quickly they each fall of the other
- when they kissed and Brent accidentally sent Cam a voice memo of him masturbating and then texted to apologize.
- how Cam apologized for basically running away after their kiss and they actually talked about it.
- how Cam loves Brent’s nose ring lol
- the way that Brent cares for Cam - getting the bath tub with him, hugging him, just genuinely caring for him and giving him space to deal with his feelings
- when they find out that Brent’s chaotic younger brother, Cosmo is in Cams gay athlete text group
- when they each meet the others families near the end and both feel at home
- when Cam first tells Brent that he loves him while Brent is driving and he almost drives off the road “You’re a menace”
- when they had to be apart for two weeks and they both missed each other. Can showing up at the tattoo studio and surprising Brent

[vesperreads (slow updates) · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.0 ⭐️ | 1.75 🌶️

-grumpy rugby player x sunshine tattoo artist
-strict
-found family

i tried to give it a chance but this book doesn't do it to me. i can't feel the chemistry though the couple are cute sometimes but its not enough to make this story entertaining. im sad

[Fay MMBookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aww Brent and Camden are sooo gorgeous. A fantastic book. I need to the read the previous stories in the series now.
My Full Blog Review Link

[Leo · Rating 4 out of 5]

?☆
🅢🅟🅘🅒🅔:🌶🌶
🅛🅐🅤🅖🅗🅢:🤣🤣
🅣🅔🅐🅡🅢:🥲
🅜🅒🅢: Camden, Brent
🅟🅞🅥: 1st Dual
🅣🅡🅞🅟🅔🅢: Tattoo Artist/Rugby Player, Grumpy Sunshine,

DNF
Cap7

[Precious · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute sunshine/grumpy book with emphasis on grumpy. I enjoyed how slow-paced the book was and how much detail was brought in.

The overall tone and atmosphere of the book felt like it was in different shades of gray—almost as if the gloom and solemnity of Camden was carried out during their journey. There was a level of depth that was both intriguing and satisfying.

I would've liked there to be less repetition in the writing itself for it to be a 5-star read.

//Arc Review//

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camden has kept his personal life close to his chest. He is only close to a very few amount of people and his family and he is comfortable about that. The media has made it super hard for him to not feel attacked and constantly under a microscope. He is constantly worried that they are going to invade his privacy no matter how careful he is. So when his tattoo artist mentions moving and that he would like Cam to meet the man taking over, Cam is wary. But he never expects the connection he feels to Brent when they meet. Brent can feel the shield around Cam the moment they meet. But he is patient. He won’t rush Cam’s comfort or betray his confidence for anything. He’ll coax him bit by bit and earn the trust of this man who makes Brent feel things he hasn’t felt in a very long time. And the second these two go past friendship? It’s everything they’ve been looking for. I absolutely adored these two! They were so sweet and just balanced one another out so well. I loved watching these two fall for one another. Especially watching Cam let down his shields bit by bit as he realizes how much he can trust Brent. Loved this story and so many other characters we met! I can’t wait to read their stories too!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ana Silva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m really loving this series!

I love all the featured authors. Each story has been so different yet connected in such a seamless way that just makes you want to do one long read without stopping 😆

Cam and Brent couldn’t be more different. One is gloomy as a cloud about to burst, while the other is pure sunshine. Yet, they find a way to fall for each other.

Cam had such high walls that it seemed impossible for Brent to break down, but eventually he did. He saw the real Cam nobody else could.

Brent was everything Cam needed.

I love the found family aspect of this book. Sometimes chosen families turn out to be better than the ones we’re born into.

[b00ks_in_nature · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this story. First, anytime rugby is involved I'm happy. Our MC's, Cam and Brent, were great characters. I appreciated how they complemented each other. While it's a bit of a slow burn, it's totally worth the wait. I appreciated the build up in this case. I thought it was great, from plot to pacing to characters. It's part of a shared world, and it was the first one I've read. After meeting some of the other characters, I plan to check out more!

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fully in love with this book! Cam and Brent are perfection together. Brent's steadiness and calm understanding is exactly what Cam needed. I adored how Cam just slowly tore his walls down for Brent. On the flip side Cam provides the home that Brent's been looking for and they both give each other a safe space to just breathe and be. They have the perfect balance!

[Sarah☀️ Somerville · Rating 3 out of 5]

There wasn’t a lot going on in this book (and there were inconsistencies that I’d’ve loved to have been fixed). And yet, I enjoyed reading it. I enjoyed the setting and the sports. And it was quiet and sweet and there were feels.

[Christina Sturgill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Camden and Brent

[sambam]

I just couldn’t make it all of the way through this one, I was bored eek oh no

[NitaBee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been sick but a review is coming

[Leilani Noack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so glad someone broke through Cams hard exterior. I love that Brent did everything he could to make Cams life easier and shown him that he was always right there. My heart broke for Lachie but I can’t see what’s coming next in this series! I love how we get a rugby player and a tattoo artist.

[J.E. Benoit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somehow, this man I barely know—who’s patient and cocky and kind and watching me like I’m something worth handling with care—has already read me like a book.
And fuck me, I want him to turn every page.

What an unexpected delight this story turned out to be! It was so soft and lovely. This book was chock-full of swoony and tender moments. What Camden and Brent built was truly beautiful. It’s really special when two people just get each other at such an elemental level, the way these two did. There was plenty of humor and spice as well, but it was in these quiet, intimate moments where this book really shone for me.

“I’m not hiding you. I’m protecting what this is. Whatever we’re building—it matters to me. And I want it to be ours before it becomes anyone else’s.”

Camden was very guarded when the book starts, partly because that’s just his nature and partly out of necessity after having been burned in the past. Brent instantly recognizes that when they meet, but he’s not put off by it. He’s drawn to Cam and wants to get to know him, but he’s not looking to become a distraction or complication. He simply wants to be there for him.

It was so wonderful how Brent could sense what Cam needed, even when Cam couldn’t vocalize it. Brent grounded him in a way that Cam had never experienced. Little by little, Brent’s steady, calming presence chipped away at Camden’s walls. I loved seeing Cam finally surrender and fully let Brent in. I had tears in my eyes several times throughout this one!

And for once, there’s no voice in my head warning me to back off. No shadow of fear about the press, or my teammates, or the weight of what it means to be someone like me in a world that often doesn’t let us be soft and seen.

I also loved the secondary characters. Especially Lachie and Cosmo. I’m excited to read Cosmo’s book coming up in this series, and I hope that Lachie will get a book one day, outside of this series. This book checked all the boxes for me. I went into it not knowing what to expect and ended up falling head over heels with Brent and Camden. The bonus scenes available at the end were the perfect way to cap off their love story. Once again, I finished with tears in my eyes!

“You barged into my shop with forearms like artillery and the grumpiest goddamn frown I’ve ever seen. I was doomed from day one.”

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and sweet book. First one in this series I’ve read since this was an arc so I’m looking forward to getting some more information on things from the first few books. Cam and Brent were too sweet. Sometimes you get this insta list or insta chemistry with couples in books which I absolutely love but when you get this instant intimacy between them it’s just perfection. They had this quiet and solid connection almost immediately. Brent was Cams safe and soft place to land. Also Cosmo is an absolute riot and can’t wait to get his book. Not sure if we will get a book for Lachie but I wanted some updated info on him at the end. Otherwise it was a really nice afternoon read

[Ashley | adhdandread · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full Tilt by Becca Seymour
Love the Game #5 (multi-author series)
Length: 294 pages
Source: GRR Tours eARC
Publication date: September 23, 2025

4.5 ⭐
3 🌶️

WHAT TO EXPECT
🏉 Rugby captain x tattoo artist
☀️ Accidental sex tape (whoops!)
🏉 Grumpy/sunshine
☀️ Found family
🏉 Slow burn
☀️ Emotional intimacy
🏉 Opposites attract
☀️ Hurt/comfort

AUTHOR’S BLURB
Camden Crawford knows how to take a hit.

As the 30-something captain of the Exeter Seagulls, he’s built a career on strength, silence, and shielding his emotions as ruthlessly as he does his teammates. But when an injury rocks his team—and a series of frustrating media storms threaten to unravel his legacy—Cam finds himself one mistake away from losing everything he’s worked for. The last thing he needs is a distraction.

Enter Brent Parks: sunshine in tattooed skin, newly settled in Exeter, and a little too perceptive for Cam’s comfort.

Brent came to England chasing purpose. What he didn’t expect was a brooding rugby player with eyes like winter and walls like stone. But the chemistry? Immediate. Irresistible. And very, very mutual. Brent isn’t afraid to get under Camden’s skin—and he’s definitely not afraid to stay there.

When a one-time tattoo consult turns into stolen kisses, slow mornings, and a summer of something that feels like a lot more, both men are forced to face the truth: Falling for each other wasn’t in the game plan—and neither is what happens when the spotlight turns on their relationship.

With mounting pressure, cross-continental tours, and past insecurities clawing their way to the surface, Camden has to decide if love is a risk he’s finally ready to take. And Brent? He’s ready to prove that he’s not just a distraction—he’s the reason to stay.

MY THOUGHTS
Is it acceptable to do a review in only emojis? Because I could do it with this one, something like (in no particular order): 🥰🥵😏🤨🥹🫣😬😮‍💨😂😍🤗🥳.

But seriously, it’s sweet. It’s got some angst. It’s funny and romantic and a just-right amount of steamy. It’s a quick, easy read with fully fleshed out characters who were incredibly easy to root for. I love MCs where the author shows you from the first meeting that there’s something innately special happening/about to happen between them (even if you, the reader, knows it and they don’t!). Then the connection you watch them experience in the book slowly reveals just how well they complement each other. For me, Becca is an author who does this so easily and seamlessly, and I just eat it up every time. Full Tilt is no different. These two men are perfect “opposites attract” energy, and as a Taurus, I especially enjoy a loyal love interest, a guy whose whole vibe is “Yeah, I’m not going anywhere.”

And then, when you throw in a strong found family and siblings who maybe don’t know when to butt out…👩🏻‍🍳💋

BOTTOM LINE
Look, Becca Seymour reads, for me, are always an emotional good time. I laugh, I tear up, I sweat, I smile, and I leave satisfied. This is my second Love the Game ARC read, and I’m going to keep at it, because I’m really enjoying this shared sports-world series. It brings together some of my favorite writers, including Becca. Go read Full Tilt!
— A

Thanks to GRR Tours and Becca Seymour for an eARC of this book. All opinions are mine. Reviews posted regularly on StoryGraph, Instagram, BlueSky, BookBub, Fable, and Goodreads.

[Abigail Beckwith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Here's Becca Seymour's "Full Tilt." It's a novel in the multi-author series, Love The Game.

["Camden Crawford knows how to take a hit.

As the thirty-something captain of the Exeter Seagulls, he’s built a career on strength, silence, and shielding his emotions as ruthlessly as he does his teammates. But when an injury rocks his team—and a series of frustrating media storms threaten to unravel his legacy—Cam finds himself one mistake away from losing everything he’s worked for. The last thing he needs is a distraction.

Enter Brent sunshine in tattooed skin, newly settled in Exeter, and a little too perceptive for Cam’s comfort.

Brent came to England chasing purpose. What he didn’t expect was a brooding rugby player with eyes like winter and walls like stone. But the chemistry? Immediate. Irresistible. And very, very mutual. Brent isn’t afraid to get under Camden’s skin—and he’s definitely not afraid to stay there.

When a one-time tattoo consult turns into stolen kisses, slow mornings, and a summer of something that feels a lot like more, both men are forced to face the Falling for each other wasn’t in the game plan. And neither is what happens when the spotlight turns on their relationship.

With mounting pressure, cross-continental tours, and past insecurities clawing their way to the surface, Camden has to decide if love is a risk he’s finally ready to take. And Brent? He’s ready to prove that he’s not just a distraction—he’s the reason to stay."]

I love how interconnected this series is. And how we finally got confirmation the queer group chat is called Love the Game. And how we're working through people in the chat getting their HEAs. This is also (so far) one of the books that is connected to an author's universe that I've read (or at least remember reading).

These two were adorable. They healed each other, and they helped each other grow. It was a lot about trust and patience and communication. It was about learning to live again and learning to love. It was getting out of your comfort zone and letting happiness in.

Also, I'm obsessed with Cosmo. Was before this book. Am so much more after. Can't wait for his book!!

#gayromancereviews #grr #arcs #arcteammember
#fulltilt #beccaseymour #theposterboy #barnburner #offsideplay #newrules #puckshots #topshelf #playwithme #lovethegame #lovethegameseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks

[Demian Grimm · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐

Full Tilt by Becca Seymour is part of a multi-author series and can be read as a standalone. While some side characters will have their own books later in the series, it will be by other authors.

This is basically a grumpy/sunshine romance between Camden, a guarded English rugby player, and Brent, a witty American tattoo artist who becomes both a spark and a safe place for Camden.

It’s also an opposites-attract story. On one side, we have Cam who is private, cautious, and guarded. And rightfully so, thanks to the press and past hurts. He’s more grey skies and closed doors, but Becca takes the time to show us why, so his guardedness feels human and relatable rather than distant.
Brent, on the other hand, is patient and grounding, even if he’s not always completely grounded himself (let’s be honest, who is?). And while he may be the sunshine to Cam’s grump, he’s never overly cheerful or unrealistic, which is exactly what won me over. Brent is sarcastic and funny, with an instinct for when to step in and when to quietly be there. swoon.

But what I love most is that both Cam and Brent are flawed humans, which makes them, and their relationship, feel believable and real. Yes, there’s instant attraction, but Becca lets it slowly unfold into something deeper. Their chemistry is clear from the beginning, but it takes its time to grow...it’s a slow burn, but the payoff is absolutely worth it.

Now, I’m familiar with Becca Seymour’s writing and have been a fan for a while, but this book still surprised me in the best way. I expected a sports romance, and it technically is one...but it’s softer, gentler, and more reflective than I was expecting.

If I had to describe this book in one sentence, I’d say it’s a study in unspoken yearnings, in quiet intimacy, patience, and vulnerability, where small moments of trust and connection grow into a love that feels safe and real.

It was a real joy to read this book, and it left me with a warm feeling that still lingers. ❤️

Also, I need an update about Lachie!!! (if not a whole book...as Monty Python would say "nudge, nudge" 😉)

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.

[Another librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

✍️ 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾 ✍️
“FULL TILT” BECCA SEYMOUR ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶️🌶️.5/5

My journey in the Love in the Game shared world continues!

Camden Crawford is the captain of the Exeter Seagulls rugby team, and he’s made strength and silence his armor. But an injury and media scandals could put an end to his career. The last thing he needs is a distraction.
That distraction has a name: Brent Parks. Bright, tattooed, and new in Exeter, Brent isn’t intimidated by the walls Cam has built around himself. The attraction between them is immediate, irresistible, impossible to ignore.
What starts as a casual meeting soon turns into a summer of passion and connection—until the spotlight shines on their relationship. Between pressure, travels, and old fears resurfacing, Cam has to decide whether love is the biggest risk worth taking.

Thanks to this series, I’ve been discovering so many new-to-me authors, and Becca Seymour is one of them. Her writing is sharp, witty, and flows effortlessly, I finished the book in just two days, and within the first twenty-four hours I had already devoured 70% of it!

I found Cam and Brent incredibly real. I fell in love with Brent right away—not only because I pictured him as Yungblud (seriously, he’s basically Yungblud with more tattoos in my head), but also because he’s such a sensitive soul, instantly empathetic with everyone he meets. You know the saying “never judge a book by its cover”? These two are the perfect example. Cam, with his massive rugby build and grumpy don’t fuck with me attitude, looks exactly like what he seems: intimidating. But deep down, he’s just a lonely man who gave up on the idea of being with someone because of his career and what the media might say. And Brent gets it right away, he only needs to look at Cam’s face to understand what he needs. And don’t be fooled by Brent’s ink-covered skin, because underneath, he’s incredibly tender and romantic.
This is chemistry, people—the tension between them is off the charts. I really loved them together.

I enjoyed every bit of this story, and now I can’t wait to dive into the next one!

[DeeReads412 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely hooked on this series, and Camden & Brent’s story was such a beautiful addition. Becca delivered a slow burn romance that had me savoring every page, watching two very different men slowly break down walls and learn what it means to truly trust.

Camden is the epitome of a grumpy hero. He’s guarded, cautious, and scarred from past hurt, making it nearly impossible for him to let anyone in—especially someone new and unexpected. Enter Brent, the steady, patient American who sees past the walls Camden has so carefully built. Brent doesn’t push or pressure, but instead quietly proves himself over and over, showing Camden that not everyone leaves and that love can be something safe and lasting.

What made this romance shine was how natural it felt. Becca didn’t rush them into grand gestures or force instant chemistry. Instead, she built layer upon layer of anticipation—from that first spark of attraction to the slow unfolding of deeper connection—until their eventual coming together felt both inevitable and oh-so rewarding. The push and pull, the stolen glances, and the gradual opening of Camden’s heart were crafted with such care that I found myself completely invested in their journey.

On top of the romance, I really enjoyed the way the sports aspect was woven. It never overshadowed the story but added a fun, grounded element that balanced perfectly with the emotional depth of Camden and Brent’s relationship. And let’s not forget the side characters—they added so much charm and personality, giving the world extra layers of warmth and making me even more excited to see what’s coming next in this multi-author series.

At its heart, this was a story about trust and finding that one person who sees you exactly as you are and loves you all the more for it. Camden and Brent were the perfect reminders that sometimes love takes time, patience, and a little bit of stubbornness—but when it finally arrives, it’s worth every single moment of the wait.

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is part of the multi author Love the Game series—a group of out men from the various fields of sports—and this one features Camden, a very introverted, moody, broody, captain of a rugby team in the running for the playoffs. He owned my heart here… trying to carry the weight of everyone on the team on his shoulders. Their wins, losses, personal problems, even how his past might impact the team to the point that he feared having any kind of personal life. Until Brent—the new artist taking over from Camden’s regular tattooist. Out and proud, tattooed and kindness personified, Brent recognized in Camden a person hiding fear and hurt behind his grumpy, antisocial, exterior and, being the natural caretaker he was, was drawn to him instantly and wound up falling for him fast and hard.

I loved the relationship between these two MCs; it was kinda slow going in the beginning due to Camden being hurt in the past but Brent never gave up, his consistent patience and understanding winning Camden’s trust and eventually his heart. As much as I loved the two of them however, something was still missing. It was too easy to lay the book down and go do something else (which is unusual for me with one of this author’s books and why it took me almost two days to finish reading it—it wasn’t even that long!!). I’m not sure what my problem was… it had the sweet and the heat, no drama and no third act breakup… all my preferences in a romance… it just didn’t grab me and refuse to let go. It could very well be me but, although good, it wasn’t great. 4 stars

BTW: What ever happened with Lachie? Did I just miss it? Is he the focus of the next book in the series? I would��ve liked to know SOMETHING about how he was doing after he was such a big part of the team as well as being Camden’s best friend.

I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Magda | AnotherOneReadsRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so happy I got my hands on this book. When I received my ARC, I couldn't wait to read it. This story has it all for me: the quiet, grumpy rugby player, the outspoken, funny tattoo artist and their first meeting, where a spark immediately flew between them. I have a weakness for grumpy characters who actually have a big heart and end up metting someone who really notices them. I loved Cam from the first chapter.

"I'm meeting someone new - something I try to avoid... like open bars and emotional vulnerability."

I feel you Cam, I really do. After getting to know him better you will totally understand why he is behaving the way he does. He's protective of his personal life and afraid of being used, so he's using his tough exterior as a shield. Until he meets Brent and everything slowly starts to change. Brent is such a wonderful character. I wish I could meet someone like him in real life. He's a walking green flag. He understands Cam better than most, gives him quiet support without pressure, simply being there for him. I love absolutely everything about the development of their relationship. The author also did a great job of creating additional storylines and introducing secondary characters. I was completely invested in this story, and there were several moving moments that hit close to home for me, when I was reading about Cam's struggles. This was my first book by this author, but after reading this one I want to read her other stories and I will also be delighted to meet the rest of the characters in the "Love the Game" series. And let me paraphrase Prince Henry from the movie "Red, White and Royal Blue": it was the swooniest book I've read recently.

I received an ARC of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.

[fortheloveofmmromancebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review

At thirty-one Camden Crawford has achieved everything he wanted to do in his chosen career of Rugby, playing for and being captain for the Exeter Seagulls. He is happy when on the pitch and excels in front of a strong crowd of 20,000 people, but he struggles meeting people socially .
His favourite tattoo artist has decided to sell up and move to Canada. Before he leaves he organises Cam to meet his replacement.

Brent Parks is an American living in the UK, and has found a home in Exeter. He has the opportunity to take over a tattoo studio. He has a prickly customer he needs to win over. Cam walks in and immediately has an attraction to him. He sees Cam as a person, not just a rugby star, which Cam likes. He slowly starts to thaw out Cam, and earns his trust.

Cam has been hurt before and is very wary about trusting people. Brent is sunshine in a bottle and manages to win Cam’s trust. They become friends and eventually more.

This is Becca Seymour’s offering to the multi author series ‘Love the Game’. It sees athletes from many worldwide sports support each other being queer.
If the rest of the series is as good as this book, then I know I will love it.
Becca made me fall in love with Cam in a heartbeat, I felt for him. He is such a beautiful soul, who just wants to be loved, but struggles letting people in.
Brent is the sunshine he needs and the way these two show up from each other is just gorgeous.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camden has always kept his personal life tightly guarded. He's only close to a small circle of people, mostly his family, and he’s comfortable that way. The media has made it incredibly hard for him not to feel constantly scrutinized and under attack. No matter how cautious he is, he lives with the worry that his privacy will be invaded.
So, when his longtime tattoo artist mentions he's moving and wants Cam to meet the new guy taking over, Cam is understandably hesitant. But he never expects the instant connection he feels when he meets Brent.
Brent senses the walls around Cam from the moment they meet — but he’s patient. He doesn’t push. He won’t rush Cam’s comfort or betray his trust. Instead, he gently coaxes Cam out of his shell, earning his confidence day by day. And once they move past friendship? It’s everything they both didn’t know they needed.
I absolutely adored these two! Their connection was so sweet, and they balanced each other perfectly. Watching Cam slowly open up and realize how safe he felt with Brent was such a joy. I loved their story — and I’m also super excited about the side characters we met along the way. Can’t wait to read their stories too!
5 stars plus..

[Seraphina Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full Tilt
Love the Game Series
Becca Seymour

Camden & Brent
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

Rugby player / Tattoo artist
Swoony
Slow burn
Grumpy/ Sunshine
Found family
Banter

This was so sweet and swoony.

I loved this.

This series has been so great. I've loved each book so far.

Cam and Brent are perfect for each other. Brent is the perfect steady storm to calm Camden. They are Opposites who pair wonderfully together.

I adore the found family aspect. Their group of friends, teammates and family are fantastic. The group chat is hilarious especially Cosmo lol.

I love how Camden was able to let his guard down so beautifully for Brent. And Brent ever so peacefully sees exactly what Cam needs.

“I want to know what he sounds like when he gives in. What it’d be like to take him apart slow and greedy. To get my hands on that thick, powerful body and feel it shake under me.”

This is a fun book. All the side characters are great. The two MC'S are so perfect for each other.

They just saw each other. For who they truly are and for what they needed.

“His thighs tremble beneath my hands. He’s undone. But it’s not the kind of wreckage that leaves someone undone. It’s honest. Grounded. Present. He’s here with me in every shake and gasp and curse.”

Can't wait to read the others in the series.

So thankful for this arc