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Faircloud #3
The Games We Play
Penny Hudson found her family in the people she chose—new friends, found sisters, and one fiercely protective old lady who took her in when she needed it most. Life in Faircloud was never picture-perfect, but Penny survived it with laughter and her favorite music cranked up loud.
Mac Ridley grew up behind the bar at The Tequila Cowboy, always working, always watching. He’s built his life by keeping his head down, stacking tips, and staying far away from anything that could tie him to his father’s messy legacy. Emotions? Not in the game plan.
But when friends and circumstance throw Penny and Mac together, a secret six-month fling turns into something that feels dangerously like more until one mistake tears them apart.
Now, Mac wants a second chance. But Penny isn’t making it easy, and maybe that’s exactly what he needs. Because this time, charm won’t cut it. If he wants her back, he’ll have to prove it with effort, with honesty, and maybe even on his knees.
The man so used to being chased becomes the chaser in The Games We Play: a flirty, fiery, small-town romance about second chances and fighting for the love you almost lost.
Mac Ridley grew up behind the bar at The Tequila Cowboy, always working, always watching. He’s built his life by keeping his head down, stacking tips, and staying far away from anything that could tie him to his father’s messy legacy. Emotions? Not in the game plan.
But when friends and circumstance throw Penny and Mac together, a secret six-month fling turns into something that feels dangerously like more until one mistake tears them apart.
Now, Mac wants a second chance. But Penny isn’t making it easy, and maybe that’s exactly what he needs. Because this time, charm won’t cut it. If he wants her back, he’ll have to prove it with effort, with honesty, and maybe even on his knees.
The man so used to being chased becomes the chaser in The Games We Play: a flirty, fiery, small-town romance about second chances and fighting for the love you almost lost.
Unknown Binding
Published August 22, 2025
About the author
M. Hartley
8 books195 followersM. Hartley is a hopeless romantic with a passion for crafting heartfelt stories about small-town charm and rugged fictional cowboys (with big hearts and big…) When she’s not writing, while drinking a glass of sweet red wine, she can be found doting on her beloved dog, Hank, or indulging in her absurd Swedish Fish addiction. Dedicated to making readers fall head over heels for romance, M. Hartley believes there’s nothing better than a love story that lingers long after the last page is turned.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
September 30, 2025
ARC REVIEW
RELEASES 10/7
Tropes-
Second chance
Tattooed MMC
Found family
Small town
"She didn’t have a damn thing to prove. She already had me. All of me. My heart. My soul. My entire fucking existence rested in the palm of her hand."
✨️ Thank you so much to M. Hartley and Page and Vine for this E-ARC for my honest review! I read the Story We Wrote last year and really enjoyed it, but M out did herself with this book. Although I missed Where We Call Home, and trust me I will immediately be going back and reading it. Because we get snippets of Theo and Rhodes in this book and I can't wait to read their book. This book had me giggling and kicking my feet the first chapter 🤭. Also, Penny literally tells Mac to "Grovel, bitch" 🤗. And who wouldn't love a MMC's who response is- "I'd move mountains, walk barefoot across hot coals. Brand my skin with your initials, Penny.” 😍 I mean, swoon right? I definitely recommend this book to my friends who enjoy second chances!
RELEASES 10/7
Tropes-
Second chance
Tattooed MMC
Found family
Small town
"She didn’t have a damn thing to prove. She already had me. All of me. My heart. My soul. My entire fucking existence rested in the palm of her hand."
✨️ Thank you so much to M. Hartley and Page and Vine for this E-ARC for my honest review! I read the Story We Wrote last year and really enjoyed it, but M out did herself with this book. Although I missed Where We Call Home, and trust me I will immediately be going back and reading it. Because we get snippets of Theo and Rhodes in this book and I can't wait to read their book. This book had me giggling and kicking my feet the first chapter 🤭. Also, Penny literally tells Mac to "Grovel, bitch" 🤗. And who wouldn't love a MMC's who response is- "I'd move mountains, walk barefoot across hot coals. Brand my skin with your initials, Penny.” 😍 I mean, swoon right? I definitely recommend this book to my friends who enjoy second chances!
May 21, 2026
5 ⭐️
⋆˙⟡ tropes ⟡˙⋆
💍 second chance
🍻 bartender x librarian
🏡 small town
📚 found family
🌹 he has tattoos
🗓️ past/present timeline
⋆˙⟡ thoughts ⟡˙⋆
a tatted man who reads her favorite romance novels???? 🙂↕️ she has done it again with another five star for this masterpiece!!!! penny and mac are hottt 🥵 the spice is spicing. the chemistry was off the charts. the fact that he was willing to do anything to win her back after everything they’ve been through!!!! a man. i lovee penny too like the glitter bomb??? i knew right then and there she’d be making me laugh.
alsooo can we have a moment for when penny tells him to grovel 😮💨 mac: “i’d move fking mountains. walk barefoot across across hot coals. brand my skin with your initials, penny.”
⋆˙⟡ synopsis ⟡˙⋆
penny found her family in the people she chose: new friends, found sisters, and one fiercely protective old lady who took her in when she needed it most. mac grew up behind the bar always working, always watching. he’s built his life by keeping his head down and staying far away from anything that could tie him to his father’s messy legacy.
but…. when friends and circumstance throw them together, a secret six-month fling turns into something that feels dangerously like more until one mistake tears them apart. now, mac wants a second chance but she isn’t making it easy, and maybe that’s exactly what he needs.
🎧audio: the narrators did soooooo good bringing penny and mac to life!!! i listened to it within a day because i was hooked to both the story and audio!!!
⋆˙⟡ tropes ⟡˙⋆
💍 second chance
🍻 bartender x librarian
🏡 small town
📚 found family
🌹 he has tattoos
🗓️ past/present timeline
⋆˙⟡ thoughts ⟡˙⋆
a tatted man who reads her favorite romance novels???? 🙂↕️ she has done it again with another five star for this masterpiece!!!! penny and mac are hottt 🥵 the spice is spicing. the chemistry was off the charts. the fact that he was willing to do anything to win her back after everything they’ve been through!!!! a man. i lovee penny too like the glitter bomb??? i knew right then and there she’d be making me laugh.
alsooo can we have a moment for when penny tells him to grovel 😮💨 mac: “i’d move fking mountains. walk barefoot across across hot coals. brand my skin with your initials, penny.”
⋆˙⟡ synopsis ⟡˙⋆
penny found her family in the people she chose: new friends, found sisters, and one fiercely protective old lady who took her in when she needed it most. mac grew up behind the bar always working, always watching. he’s built his life by keeping his head down and staying far away from anything that could tie him to his father’s messy legacy.
but…. when friends and circumstance throw them together, a secret six-month fling turns into something that feels dangerously like more until one mistake tears them apart. now, mac wants a second chance but she isn’t making it easy, and maybe that’s exactly what he needs.
🎧audio: the narrators did soooooo good bringing penny and mac to life!!! i listened to it within a day because i was hooked to both the story and audio!!!
October 8, 2025
Thank you so much to the author, Page and Vine and LuvBooksClub for the #gifted e-ARC!
I love, love, love when a second chance has a man groveling and when I tell you, Penny made Mac grovel, I really mean it. 🤭
I loved this continuation of the Faircloud series! Every character is so fun and the found family is top notch. Each of M. Hartley’s books have their own unique set of characters and circumstances that leave you unable to put the book down until you’ve finished! Purely addicting!
Penny was a force to be reckoned with! I knew right from the glitter bomb in the first chapter I was going to fall in love with her and I was so right. She’s sunshine in book character form and has the most fun personality.
I loved Mac’s willingness to try to win Penny back despite all they had been through. Their chemistry felt like an instant connection and I really adored them.
I would highly recommend to all my book besties who love a second chance, small town and the best found family! 🤍
I love, love, love when a second chance has a man groveling and when I tell you, Penny made Mac grovel, I really mean it. 🤭
I loved this continuation of the Faircloud series! Every character is so fun and the found family is top notch. Each of M. Hartley’s books have their own unique set of characters and circumstances that leave you unable to put the book down until you’ve finished! Purely addicting!
Penny was a force to be reckoned with! I knew right from the glitter bomb in the first chapter I was going to fall in love with her and I was so right. She’s sunshine in book character form and has the most fun personality.
I loved Mac’s willingness to try to win Penny back despite all they had been through. Their chemistry felt like an instant connection and I really adored them.
I would highly recommend to all my book besties who love a second chance, small town and the best found family! 🤍
October 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
She does it again with the third book in the series! I’ve completely fallen in love with the small town of Faircloud, Texas, and all of the people who call it home.
Mac is a man who knows how to grovel to win his girl back. Watching him open up his heart and truly work on himself so he could be there for her was everything. His growth and vulnerability made me love him even more.
Penny is a girl after my own heart, a librarian who leaves a bit of pink glitter (iykyk) everywhere she goes. Her relationship with Sandy was one of my favorite parts of the book. Seeing her finally find the mother figure she needed so badly made my heart ache in the best way.
I’m really hoping there will be more books in this series because I need some of the side characters’ stories.
Tropes:
✨ Second chance romance
✨ A MMC who grovels
✨ Tattooed MMC
✨ Small town romance
✨ Found family
She does it again with the third book in the series! I’ve completely fallen in love with the small town of Faircloud, Texas, and all of the people who call it home.
Mac is a man who knows how to grovel to win his girl back. Watching him open up his heart and truly work on himself so he could be there for her was everything. His growth and vulnerability made me love him even more.
Penny is a girl after my own heart, a librarian who leaves a bit of pink glitter (iykyk) everywhere she goes. Her relationship with Sandy was one of my favorite parts of the book. Seeing her finally find the mother figure she needed so badly made my heart ache in the best way.
I’m really hoping there will be more books in this series because I need some of the side characters’ stories.
Tropes:
✨ Second chance romance
✨ A MMC who grovels
✨ Tattooed MMC
✨ Small town romance
✨ Found family
May 19, 2026
The FMC says she needs space so the MMC shows up at her doorstep and says he’s not leaving until she listens to him…. I’m out. Bye.
November 13, 2025
I really like this series and book 3 does not disappoint. Mac and Penny having a secret affair until she discovers his secret marriage. I loved the groveling that she made Mac do, but I also liked how much everyone came to Mac's defense and told Penny to snap out of it. You could tell their chemistry was off the charts and you could also see how they could be good friends. Super enjoyable!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2026
3.75 ⭐️ | 2.5 🌶️ | 🎧
Another very cute story by M. Hartley. The dual narration by Summer Morton and Ryan West was my favorite of the audiobooks so far! They both brought the characters and their vulnerabilities to life in the best way.
This one did feel longer and a little more drawn out than the other books, but it also felt like there was more happening and the author spent a good time setting up future stories as well (I am looking at you, Ellie and Logan). Each character had a lot to work through, and their development and struggles were well written.
And the spice 🫠 I loved the two of them together! They were hot and vulnerable together at the same time. Mack is literally the opposite type of man I would ever go for in real life, but her was written in a way that made me overlook the fact that he constantly had a cigarette in his mouth...so well done.
I have loved the series! It is so underhyped, and I am happy that it is now available in audiobook format to hopefully reach a wider audience, because they are all 100% worth reading.
Another very cute story by M. Hartley. The dual narration by Summer Morton and Ryan West was my favorite of the audiobooks so far! They both brought the characters and their vulnerabilities to life in the best way.
This one did feel longer and a little more drawn out than the other books, but it also felt like there was more happening and the author spent a good time setting up future stories as well (I am looking at you, Ellie and Logan). Each character had a lot to work through, and their development and struggles were well written.
And the spice 🫠 I loved the two of them together! They were hot and vulnerable together at the same time. Mack is literally the opposite type of man I would ever go for in real life, but her was written in a way that made me overlook the fact that he constantly had a cigarette in his mouth...so well done.
I have loved the series! It is so underhyped, and I am happy that it is now available in audiobook format to hopefully reach a wider audience, because they are all 100% worth reading.
May 16, 2026
Thank you to Dreamscape Media & NetGalley for an ALC of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.
I have been absolutely loving the Faircloud series, it’s such a good Cowboy Romance with a picture perfect small town, and the sweetest group of friends who are a found family. The narrator’s did a wonderful job bringing Penny & Mac to life in the audiobook!
Penny & Mac were such a sweet (and omg soooo spicy) second chance romance. I loved that the reason they split up and had to work to get back together was for a very real reason, it made their story that much more raw and emotional. All of that to say it was also so clear in the end these two were always going to be endgame, and I loved their story so much!
I have been absolutely loving the Faircloud series, it’s such a good Cowboy Romance with a picture perfect small town, and the sweetest group of friends who are a found family. The narrator’s did a wonderful job bringing Penny & Mac to life in the audiobook!
Penny & Mac were such a sweet (and omg soooo spicy) second chance romance. I loved that the reason they split up and had to work to get back together was for a very real reason, it made their story that much more raw and emotional. All of that to say it was also so clear in the end these two were always going to be endgame, and I loved their story so much!
May 21, 2026
3.25🌟 *NETGALLEY ALC* 🎧
Plot 🌟🌟🌟
Spice/Chemistry 🌟🌟🌟
Characters 🌟🌟🌟
Narrators 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This one started off strong and definitely felt like a step up in both the chemistry and characters compared to the previous book in the series. I LOOOOVE a good second-chance romance, so I was immediately invested.
The beginning had me hooked, but the middle, especially the groveling, didn’t fully hit for me. I was so looking forward to that part and wanted a little more emotional payoff. That said, the ending wrapped things up nicely, and overall I still had a good time with it.
Plot 🌟🌟🌟
Spice/Chemistry 🌟🌟🌟
Characters 🌟🌟🌟
Narrators 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This one started off strong and definitely felt like a step up in both the chemistry and characters compared to the previous book in the series. I LOOOOVE a good second-chance romance, so I was immediately invested.
The beginning had me hooked, but the middle, especially the groveling, didn’t fully hit for me. I was so looking forward to that part and wanted a little more emotional payoff. That said, the ending wrapped things up nicely, and overall I still had a good time with it.
May 26, 2026
We love a man who grovels. Can we stop romantasizing smoking though?
October 25, 2025
Cute book! 3.5? Maybe could have been a 4 if the MMC wasn’t a smoker. Just gives me the ick
November 20, 2025
I really liked Penny & Mac. However, I did feel like the conflict that the whole book was based on was kind of a non-issue. So for me, after the first half, the story kind of dragged a little bit. I really did love the ending though. I’m really enjoying this series and I’ll definitely be reading the last book in the series when it’s out.
Read
July 19, 2025the way i want to say READ THIS BOOK, but m. hartley got picked up as a ✨traditional author✨ soooo we have until who knows for release, buuuuut y'all will love mac & penny like to be expected!! also, SO PROUD OF YOU BB!!🥰🤍🎀✨
May 25, 2026
This book annoyed the absolute bejesus out of me. For the first quarter of the book, we’re tossed back and forth between the present day, where our FMC is angry and feeling deeply betrayed by something the hot bartender she was hooking up with did, and flashbacks showing their relationship. We aren’t given the details, but it’s framed like some earth-shattering betrayal.
So naturally I’m thinking: okay, he’s sleeping with other women… maybe there’s a secret baby… something MAJOR. But no! The big reveal ends up being a giant pile of nothing about him getting drunkenly married in Vegas. Seriously, it’s the dumbest non-issue imaginable, and this dull, milquetoast FMC acts like it’s some unforgivable act of treason.
Mind you, she finds out this information by violating his privacy and opening his mail. Ma’am. Y’all are glorified fuck buddies. You have some REAL audacity here.
Anyways, fast forward two months and she still doesn’t know the full story because she refuses to talk to him. Then when he finally forces the conversation and explains his side (which is completely reasonable and honestly shows no real wrongdoing) and she tells him, “You need to grovel.”
Grovel for WHAT, dummy? For not telling you something that was frankly none of your business when y’all weren’t even in a committed relationship?
I was honestly rooting for this man to walk his fine ass right out the door because WHAT are we doing here?! She deserved exactly zero groveling. He did nothing wrong, and she truly was not worth the trouble.
Meanwhile, this poor man is dealing with a mountain of family drama, which she of course barely cares about because she’s so painfully self-centered. By the end, I just wanted to shake him and tell him to go find a baddie who actually deserves his time.
So naturally I’m thinking: okay, he’s sleeping with other women… maybe there’s a secret baby… something MAJOR. But no! The big reveal ends up being a giant pile of nothing about him getting drunkenly married in Vegas. Seriously, it’s the dumbest non-issue imaginable, and this dull, milquetoast FMC acts like it’s some unforgivable act of treason.
Mind you, she finds out this information by violating his privacy and opening his mail. Ma’am. Y’all are glorified fuck buddies. You have some REAL audacity here.
Anyways, fast forward two months and she still doesn’t know the full story because she refuses to talk to him. Then when he finally forces the conversation and explains his side (which is completely reasonable and honestly shows no real wrongdoing) and she tells him, “You need to grovel.”
Grovel for WHAT, dummy? For not telling you something that was frankly none of your business when y’all weren’t even in a committed relationship?
I was honestly rooting for this man to walk his fine ass right out the door because WHAT are we doing here?! She deserved exactly zero groveling. He did nothing wrong, and she truly was not worth the trouble.
Meanwhile, this poor man is dealing with a mountain of family drama, which she of course barely cares about because she’s so painfully self-centered. By the end, I just wanted to shake him and tell him to go find a baddie who actually deserves his time.
October 7, 2025
“𝒴𝑜𝓊 𝓈𝒽𝑜𝓌𝑒𝒹 𝓂𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝓈𝓃’𝓉 𝑒𝒶𝓈𝓎. 𝐼𝓉’𝓈 𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓃𝑒𝒹. 𝒴𝑜𝓊 𝓂𝒶𝒹𝑒 𝓂𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇, 𝒫𝑒𝓃. 𝒴𝑜𝓊 𝓂𝒶𝒹𝑒 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝒷𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓇.”
After reading and loving the first two books in this series, I just knew that I had to read Penny and Mac’s story.
I loved Penny. After finding out that Mac had hidden something from her, she cuts him out of her life. I love how she stood her ground and did not make the first move to go back to him. Her glitter prank on him had me laughing. Even after Mac tried to talk to her, she didn’t want to hear it. I loved that she made him grovel to win to her back. He really hurt her and I felt bad, so I was glad she didn’t let him back into her life so easily.
Man, did Mac grovel in this book and I loved every second of it. I loved how he was willing to do anything to win Penny back. While he did frustrate me with his actions and how he just let her walk away, I do think he redeemed himself. Some of the things he did for her were so cute and creative. It was also sweet that he asked their friends for help.
I loved these two together. They had such great chemistry! I also loved getting snippets of Boone, Aspen, Theo, Rhodes, Logan and Ellie. They were great additions to the story and I loved seeing where they were at in their relationships.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed the pacing and loved how the long the groveling took. I would definitely recommend this book if you love a second chance, found family, small town romance.
Thank you to M. Hartley, Page and Vine and Luv Books Club for the ARC for an honest review.
After reading and loving the first two books in this series, I just knew that I had to read Penny and Mac’s story.
I loved Penny. After finding out that Mac had hidden something from her, she cuts him out of her life. I love how she stood her ground and did not make the first move to go back to him. Her glitter prank on him had me laughing. Even after Mac tried to talk to her, she didn’t want to hear it. I loved that she made him grovel to win to her back. He really hurt her and I felt bad, so I was glad she didn’t let him back into her life so easily.
Man, did Mac grovel in this book and I loved every second of it. I loved how he was willing to do anything to win Penny back. While he did frustrate me with his actions and how he just let her walk away, I do think he redeemed himself. Some of the things he did for her were so cute and creative. It was also sweet that he asked their friends for help.
I loved these two together. They had such great chemistry! I also loved getting snippets of Boone, Aspen, Theo, Rhodes, Logan and Ellie. They were great additions to the story and I loved seeing where they were at in their relationships.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I really enjoyed the pacing and loved how the long the groveling took. I would definitely recommend this book if you love a second chance, found family, small town romance.
Thank you to M. Hartley, Page and Vine and Luv Books Club for the ARC for an honest review.
December 2, 2025
⭐️ 4 | 🌶️ 2
I loved this fresh twist on a second-chance romance where the story takes place in that space between the third-act breakup and the HEA, felt refreshing.
The cat-and-mouse energy, between Penny and Mac, the flirty one-upmanship, the “who’s going to break first?” tension… perfection. Mac’s grovelling Elite. Top-tier.
The found family vibes were strong too, watching their friends rally behind Mac’s mission to win Penny back added so much heart. Not to mention Sandy loved the pseudo-grandmother relationship, between her and Penny and her heart-to-heart were full of sweetest, love and subtle life lessons.
The truce between Mac and Lizzie was another highlight. Seeing them acknowledge they were shaped by messy parents, but still choosing to do better and show up for each other, showed real character growth.
And that grand gesture at the end… with Mac pouring his heart out via a notes app speech. Adorable 🥰.
M. Hartley’s writing has come so far since her debut with the first book on this series. I cannot wait to see what in store for Ellie & Logan’s story next.
I loved this fresh twist on a second-chance romance where the story takes place in that space between the third-act breakup and the HEA, felt refreshing.
The cat-and-mouse energy, between Penny and Mac, the flirty one-upmanship, the “who’s going to break first?” tension… perfection. Mac’s grovelling Elite. Top-tier.
The found family vibes were strong too, watching their friends rally behind Mac’s mission to win Penny back added so much heart. Not to mention Sandy loved the pseudo-grandmother relationship, between her and Penny and her heart-to-heart were full of sweetest, love and subtle life lessons.
The truce between Mac and Lizzie was another highlight. Seeing them acknowledge they were shaped by messy parents, but still choosing to do better and show up for each other, showed real character growth.
And that grand gesture at the end… with Mac pouring his heart out via a notes app speech. Adorable 🥰.
M. Hartley’s writing has come so far since her debut with the first book on this series. I cannot wait to see what in store for Ellie & Logan’s story next.
May 21, 2026
Mac and Penny have a piece of my heart. 🥹 Heck, all of Faircloud, Texas. I’m such a sucker for a second chance trope, and after how much I loved the last book, it comes as no surprise that this one was just as good.
There’s something special about an author who can write a romcom that expands beyond the typical romance excitement and gives readers something deeper. The Games We Play explores real-life struggles and the impact of two completely different upbringings in a way that feels authentic and emotional without losing the charm and humor that make the story so enjoyable.
Their banter is sharp, their connection is magnetic, and the emotional push and pull between them keeps the pages turning. Mac and Penny’s chemistry feels effortless, but it’s the vulnerability between them that really makes this story stand out.
This series just keeps getting better, and I already know these characters are going to stick with me for a long time. 💛
Thank you so much to M. Hartley, Netgalley, and Dreamscape Media for the ARC.
There’s something special about an author who can write a romcom that expands beyond the typical romance excitement and gives readers something deeper. The Games We Play explores real-life struggles and the impact of two completely different upbringings in a way that feels authentic and emotional without losing the charm and humor that make the story so enjoyable.
Their banter is sharp, their connection is magnetic, and the emotional push and pull between them keeps the pages turning. Mac and Penny’s chemistry feels effortless, but it’s the vulnerability between them that really makes this story stand out.
This series just keeps getting better, and I already know these characters are going to stick with me for a long time. 💛
Thank you so much to M. Hartley, Netgalley, and Dreamscape Media for the ARC.
May 22, 2026
I absolutely loved The Games We Play. This was such a fun, cute, and emotional second chance romance.
Penny and Mac’s chemistry and banter were incredible. The yearning between them and the groveling? Chef’s kiss. I couldn’t get enough of their push and pull dynamic, especially as Mac worked so hard to win Penny back.
There were so many moments that made me laugh, like the pink glitter scene—and I loved watching Mac fully commit to proving himself. His determination to earn Penny’s forgiveness made their second chance feel even more satisfying. The story balanced humor and emotional depth really well, making the payoff all the more rewarding.
I also really enjoyed the lighter, fun interactions woven throughout—it kept the story feeling engaging and well-rounded. This is definitely my favorite in the series.
🎧 Summer Morton and Ryan West brought the audiobook to life and made it impossible to stop listening.
Thank you to M. Hartley, NetGalley, and Dreamscape Media for the ALC.
Penny and Mac’s chemistry and banter were incredible. The yearning between them and the groveling? Chef’s kiss. I couldn’t get enough of their push and pull dynamic, especially as Mac worked so hard to win Penny back.
There were so many moments that made me laugh, like the pink glitter scene—and I loved watching Mac fully commit to proving himself. His determination to earn Penny’s forgiveness made their second chance feel even more satisfying. The story balanced humor and emotional depth really well, making the payoff all the more rewarding.
I also really enjoyed the lighter, fun interactions woven throughout—it kept the story feeling engaging and well-rounded. This is definitely my favorite in the series.
🎧 Summer Morton and Ryan West brought the audiobook to life and made it impossible to stop listening.
Thank you to M. Hartley, NetGalley, and Dreamscape Media for the ALC.
May 24, 2026
Not my favorite of this series but an overall okay storyline. You really lost me with the smoking.
Penny Hudson found her family in the people she chose—new friends, found sisters, and one fiercely protective old lady who took her in when she needed it most. Life in Faircloud was never picture-perfect, but Penny survived it with laughter and her favorite music cranked up loud.
Mac Ridley grew up behind the bar at The Tequila Cowboy, always working, always watching. He’s built his life by keeping his head down, stacking tips, and staying far away from anything that could tie him to his father’s messy legacy. Emotions? Not in the game plan.
But when friends and circumstance throw Penny and Mac together, a secret six-month fling turns into something that feels dangerously like more until one mistake tears them apart.
Now, Mac wants a second chance. But Penny isn’t making it easy, and maybe that’s exactly what he needs. Because this time, charm won’t cut it. If he wants her back, he’ll have to prove it with effort, with honesty, and maybe even on his knees.
Penny Hudson found her family in the people she chose—new friends, found sisters, and one fiercely protective old lady who took her in when she needed it most. Life in Faircloud was never picture-perfect, but Penny survived it with laughter and her favorite music cranked up loud.
Mac Ridley grew up behind the bar at The Tequila Cowboy, always working, always watching. He’s built his life by keeping his head down, stacking tips, and staying far away from anything that could tie him to his father’s messy legacy. Emotions? Not in the game plan.
But when friends and circumstance throw Penny and Mac together, a secret six-month fling turns into something that feels dangerously like more until one mistake tears them apart.
Now, Mac wants a second chance. But Penny isn’t making it easy, and maybe that’s exactly what he needs. Because this time, charm won’t cut it. If he wants her back, he’ll have to prove it with effort, with honesty, and maybe even on his knees.
May 26, 2026
This second chance romance started with a bang! Penny has been the chaotic bestie throughout this whole series, so it’s no surprise her book started in this way. I loved the tension of Mac and Penny circling each other. The flashbacks helped show how entangled they were with each other before their big break up moment. When it came to what caused the big break up I was a little confused. It was definitely one of those situations where it could have easily been cleared up by one conversation. Usually I’m all for a huge grovel moment, but it was a bit extreme in this situation. I wished we could have delved deeper into why that misunderstanding was taken so far with both Mac and Penny’s backgrounds. There were bits and pieces mentioned with Penny’s mom and Mac’s parents, but I wanted more.
The audiobook production was high quality and clear. Mac didn’t sound anything like he did in previous audiobooks which was great for me. The narrators did a great job embodying the characters. I’m excited to see what the next book brings!
The audiobook production was high quality and clear. Mac didn’t sound anything like he did in previous audiobooks which was great for me. The narrators did a great job embodying the characters. I’m excited to see what the next book brings!
May 26, 2026
Okay— still really enjoying this small town, super chill, no third act break-up series! The storytelling has gotten better with each book, and I’m loving these characters more and more with each page. I mean… a series (let alone a book) where MCs face relationship road bumps and challenges… and talk??? Novel!
This series deals with emotion and growth… but is stress free! I mean, that doesn’t even sound real?? So, if you’re looking for a feel-good read to breakup the heavy stuff? Consider this series.
This book had physical intimacy AND the emotional opening up? My kinda kink 😆 But seriously, the spice was really to my taste. Speaking of— the whole Logan-sees-what-he-shouldn’t microtrope kills me. I wonder how the author will honor that in book 4 (his book). Can’t wait to find out.
Audiobook dual narration by Ryan West and Summer Morton was great. They both suited the MCs and I had a really great time listening to them.
Audio ARC provided by Dreamscape Media and NetGalley.
These thoughts and opinions are my own.
This series deals with emotion and growth… but is stress free! I mean, that doesn’t even sound real?? So, if you’re looking for a feel-good read to breakup the heavy stuff? Consider this series.
This book had physical intimacy AND the emotional opening up? My kinda kink 😆 But seriously, the spice was really to my taste. Speaking of— the whole Logan-sees-what-he-shouldn’t microtrope kills me. I wonder how the author will honor that in book 4 (his book). Can’t wait to find out.
Audiobook dual narration by Ryan West and Summer Morton was great. They both suited the MCs and I had a really great time listening to them.
Audio ARC provided by Dreamscape Media and NetGalley.
These thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 16, 2025
Ok the way I loved Penelope and Mac was completely wild. They start off in such a fun, sexy way and I could not get enough of how much fun they had together.
When new info comes to light and Pen decides to break things off, I felt so bad for the way that Mac pined for her so hard. Not one to give up though, he concocts the perfect plan to win Pen back and this man goes all in. The way he executes his perfect grovel was absolutely perfect for them and I swooned so hard at all the ways that Mac showed Penny that she was the woman for him.
Between executing his perfect plan to win Penny back and his deliciously dirty mouth and actions, there's no way Penny could resist and their fall back together was so beautiful, funny, sexy and perfect for them!
TROPES:
Small Town
Bartender x Librarian
Found Family
Second Chance
Mental Health Rep
Thank you to M. Harley and Page & Vine for the ARC.
When new info comes to light and Pen decides to break things off, I felt so bad for the way that Mac pined for her so hard. Not one to give up though, he concocts the perfect plan to win Pen back and this man goes all in. The way he executes his perfect grovel was absolutely perfect for them and I swooned so hard at all the ways that Mac showed Penny that she was the woman for him.
Between executing his perfect plan to win Penny back and his deliciously dirty mouth and actions, there's no way Penny could resist and their fall back together was so beautiful, funny, sexy and perfect for them!
TROPES:
Small Town
Bartender x Librarian
Found Family
Second Chance
Mental Health Rep
Thank you to M. Harley and Page & Vine for the ARC.
May 19, 2026
PENNY AND MAC MY BELOVEDS!!!!
Finally getting to Penny and Mac’s story has been one of the best things to happen in this series! I absolutely adored Mac’s attitude and vibes to grovel (“grovel, bitch” was my FAVORITE LINE HANDS DOWN!!!!), and his eagerness to win her back was so fun to read!
And Penny was such a fun character to get to know! From her glitter-bombing Mac’s car to her overall personality and sunshine attitude and relationship with everyone in Faircloud (Sandy my angel I love you), I’m dreaming of being besties with her!!!
Penny and Mac’s chemistry was so hot and so good and I ate every last bit of this book up!! My jaw was on the floor at times, my feet were kicking as I read, I loooooooooove M’s writing and will forever read anything she publishes!!!!!
This book made me reminisce on Aspen and Boone’s and Theo and Rhodes’ books and got me SO EXCITED for Ellie and Logan’s book!!!!!!!!
Finally getting to Penny and Mac’s story has been one of the best things to happen in this series! I absolutely adored Mac’s attitude and vibes to grovel (“grovel, bitch” was my FAVORITE LINE HANDS DOWN!!!!), and his eagerness to win her back was so fun to read!
And Penny was such a fun character to get to know! From her glitter-bombing Mac’s car to her overall personality and sunshine attitude and relationship with everyone in Faircloud (Sandy my angel I love you), I’m dreaming of being besties with her!!!
Penny and Mac’s chemistry was so hot and so good and I ate every last bit of this book up!! My jaw was on the floor at times, my feet were kicking as I read, I loooooooooove M’s writing and will forever read anything she publishes!!!!!
This book made me reminisce on Aspen and Boone’s and Theo and Rhodes’ books and got me SO EXCITED for Ellie and Logan’s book!!!!!!!!
November 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the one!! Mac surprised me throughout the entire book and I could not turn the page fast enough. This is definitely my favorite in the series (so far) and it’s gonna be pretty hard to top!
Mac has been in the background through the first 2 books and he definitely has that mysterious, broody vibe that I’m a sucker for. Penny is loud, colorful and every bit the wild card Mac didn’t realize he was signing up for. The pink glitter?? Still laughing out loud about that one. I loved this dynamic and the way he wasn’t letting her go so easy…this is a second chance romance and my oh my, the groveling and yearning is TOP NOTCH.
Yes, I totally get why Penny was keeping Mac at arms length…but I was on the edge of my seat thinking JUST TAKE HIM BACK!! He’s such a sweetie pie underneath that rough exterior and again…the man surprised me. I was not prepared for all that but I’m definitely not complaining! 🖤🖤
#mhartley #thegamesweplay #romancereads #books
This is the one!! Mac surprised me throughout the entire book and I could not turn the page fast enough. This is definitely my favorite in the series (so far) and it’s gonna be pretty hard to top!
Mac has been in the background through the first 2 books and he definitely has that mysterious, broody vibe that I’m a sucker for. Penny is loud, colorful and every bit the wild card Mac didn’t realize he was signing up for. The pink glitter?? Still laughing out loud about that one. I loved this dynamic and the way he wasn’t letting her go so easy…this is a second chance romance and my oh my, the groveling and yearning is TOP NOTCH.
Yes, I totally get why Penny was keeping Mac at arms length…but I was on the edge of my seat thinking JUST TAKE HIM BACK!! He’s such a sweetie pie underneath that rough exterior and again…the man surprised me. I was not prepared for all that but I’m definitely not complaining! 🖤🖤
#mhartley #thegamesweplay #romancereads #books
May 24, 2026
⭐️3.5
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC. ALC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 💛
This was a super cute second-chance small-town romance. I loved the premise of this book. I loved the dynamic of going back to the past and also the present, but I will admit the main conflict of the characters felt so minor. I felt like it could have been resolved a bit quicker. But I did love seeing Mac grovel. He truly put in the effort to win Penny back, and those moments were some of my favorite parts of the book. Penny and Mac I did enjoy seeing them together, they had such good chemistry, and I honestly never doubted their connection towards each other. It felt real, but the only thing lacking was the main conflict.
I also really enjoyed the found family aspect. I love any book with found family, and I especially loved these characters. I loved how they were so invested in helping their friends. The audiobook was also so good. I liked both narrators for Penny and Mac. They might be some of my new favorite narrators. I really loved how they brought the characters to life really well.
Overall, this was a cute and fun listen. I would totally recommend this book for people who love small-town romance, second-chance, and found family.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC. ALC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 💛
This was a super cute second-chance small-town romance. I loved the premise of this book. I loved the dynamic of going back to the past and also the present, but I will admit the main conflict of the characters felt so minor. I felt like it could have been resolved a bit quicker. But I did love seeing Mac grovel. He truly put in the effort to win Penny back, and those moments were some of my favorite parts of the book. Penny and Mac I did enjoy seeing them together, they had such good chemistry, and I honestly never doubted their connection towards each other. It felt real, but the only thing lacking was the main conflict.
I also really enjoyed the found family aspect. I love any book with found family, and I especially loved these characters. I loved how they were so invested in helping their friends. The audiobook was also so good. I liked both narrators for Penny and Mac. They might be some of my new favorite narrators. I really loved how they brought the characters to life really well.
Overall, this was a cute and fun listen. I would totally recommend this book for people who love small-town romance, second-chance, and found family.
May 25, 2026
They went from a secret relationship to barely speaking… until Mac decided he wanted Penny back, and she definitely made him work for it. The angst between Penny and Mac was high, which made their story fun to follow, though it felt a little long at times.
I loved seeing Mac fully commit to proving himself instead of just relying on his charm. The pink glitter bomb situation was hilarious, and this series continues to deliver cute small-town romances with men willing to do whatever it takes for their women. If only all men were like the Faircloud men! I also could’ve used fewer cigarette/smoking references with Mac because I wasn’t really sure where that was going.
Overall, another fun and flirty small-town romance with lots of chemistry and second-chance moments.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC.
I loved seeing Mac fully commit to proving himself instead of just relying on his charm. The pink glitter bomb situation was hilarious, and this series continues to deliver cute small-town romances with men willing to do whatever it takes for their women. If only all men were like the Faircloud men! I also could’ve used fewer cigarette/smoking references with Mac because I wasn’t really sure where that was going.
Overall, another fun and flirty small-town romance with lots of chemistry and second-chance moments.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC.
October 16, 2025
What a freaking cute little cutie pootie book, because he literally became the man in the story. I love the whole revenge part with the pink glitter, I mean, you go girl. The tension between the two was giving and wanting to be with each other. Mac, can we say you made groveling your b**ch, and yes, you did it well. It's from the small things like giving her favorite flowers, helping her friends out, and designing a whole menu about her to the big ask of setting up a scavenger hunt of all her favorite things. I mean, truly, he did everything right, and he made up for the mistake, and he literally made Penny his girl, and she fell for him like she should. The characters were both chef's kisses and would love to see them start up a little family.
May 20, 2026
I am honestly conflicted between a 3/4 stars, but let's give it a 4.
This book is majorly grovelling and spicy. A lot of books do not have characters who grovel as much, but our FMC made sure he did. I am not a fan of the fallout, and at the start, the timelines were indeed a bit confusing. Also, note that I read this book as a standalone, so understanding the side characters was a bit hard, but you easily get over it fast.
While I liked that the book was filled with grovelling, I still felt that I didn't really get to know or understand the characters for who they were as individuals. I wanted to understand them better to have more context on their hesitation, worries and personality. Otherwise, it was a decent book.
This book is majorly grovelling and spicy. A lot of books do not have characters who grovel as much, but our FMC made sure he did. I am not a fan of the fallout, and at the start, the timelines were indeed a bit confusing. Also, note that I read this book as a standalone, so understanding the side characters was a bit hard, but you easily get over it fast.
While I liked that the book was filled with grovelling, I still felt that I didn't really get to know or understand the characters for who they were as individuals. I wanted to understand them better to have more context on their hesitation, worries and personality. Otherwise, it was a decent book.
May 25, 2026
**Review of** The Games We Play
by M. Hartley
Narrated by Summer Morton & Ryan West
3⭐️ 5🌶️
This one leans heavily into the spice while keeping the overall story fairly light. The secret romance and scorned-woman storyline added plenty of drama, with a touch of second-chance romance woven throughout.
If you’re looking for a steamy, fast-paced romance with lots of chemistry, this delivers. Readers who prefer deeper character development and a stronger plot may find themselves wanting more substance behind the romance.
The narration by Summer Morton and Ryan West kept the story engaging and added to the tension between the characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC.
by M. Hartley
Narrated by Summer Morton & Ryan West
3⭐️ 5🌶️
This one leans heavily into the spice while keeping the overall story fairly light. The secret romance and scorned-woman storyline added plenty of drama, with a touch of second-chance romance woven throughout.
If you’re looking for a steamy, fast-paced romance with lots of chemistry, this delivers. Readers who prefer deeper character development and a stronger plot may find themselves wanting more substance behind the romance.
The narration by Summer Morton and Ryan West kept the story engaging and added to the tension between the characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC.
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