Hidden Plays

Desert Football #1

by Christie Gordon

Sharing a locker room with my high school rival is bad enough. Pretending to date him? A terrible idea. Trying not to fall for him? Hopeless.JJ
Football is everything—my escape, my future, my one shot to prove I’m not my father’s disappointment.
Then Holden Cox appears. The golden boy who stole my MVP and made me doubt myself.
Now he’s my student trainer, living under my skin, touching me like he owns me.
And to prove a point, I challenge him to fake-date me.
It’s the only way my friends will shut up about my last boyfriend.

One lie. One kiss. One mistake waiting to happen.

Holden

I’m in college to rebuild my future in football, not to be tangled with JJ Matthews.
I told myself I’d never fall for him. I’m not even sure I like guys.
But JJ is different. Always has been.
Now I’m faking kisses that feel too real and wanting things I don’t know how to name.
Keeping this secret could save us both or break me in ways my busted knee never did.

Hidden Plays is the first book in the Desert Football series, which is a spin-off of the Desert Ice Hockey series. It features rivals who can’t keep their hands off each other, a fake boyfriend scheme that feels all too real, a bisexual awakening that changes everything, and found-family teammates cheering for their happily ever after.

Buy now and tackle all the feels. Because when it comes to love, these boys are playing for keeps.

Genres: M M Romance, Sports, Enemies To Lovers, Contemporary, LGBT, Football

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2025

About the author

Christie Gordon is the author of steamy, heartfelt gay romance novels that explore the emotional journey of men discovering themselves and finding love. It all started when she stumbled upon MM fanfiction by accident—and let's just say, it was love at first read. Inspired by the genre's mix of passion and complexity, Christie transitioned from reading about men in love to writing her own stories. After taking fiction writing classes at a local community college, she published her first MM romance novel in 2009 with a small press, and she’s never looked back.
When she’s not writing, Christie watches boys-love dramas, creates digital art, or is serenaded by her snoring one-eyed rescue pug. A graduate of both Electrical Engineering (BS) and Business Administration (MBA), she spends her "day job" navigating the high-tech world, but her heart belongs to the characters who live in her books. Christie currently resides in the Phoenix metro area, though she’s also lived in California’s Bay Area and Minnesota (which probably explains her deep love of pumpkin spiced latte coffees and hockey).
She’s also the proud mother of two young-adult sons who provide plenty of material for stories—usually in the form of chaotic shenanigans. But no matter what, Christie’s always up for a new adventure, whether it's on the page or in the real world.

For information about her and her work, please visit her website at: www.christiegordon.com
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Reviews

[ML · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first read by this author but it won’t be the last. I like books set in my home town but I loathe ASU. 🤣🤣🤣

Holden and JJ are an enemies to lovers. They were hot together. Bi-awakening for Holden. JJ was his match in every way. Fun read with not too much angst. HEA was very sweet. I’ll look forward to Casey’s book next!

[Ash]

The writing is so…off? Idk. Couldn’t get into it and felt like I missed many chapters.

[Dani (Daniiireads)]

DNF 11%

Just not vibing with the writing style

[A Damach · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.4⭐. Dialogue seemed somewhat childish to me.

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Plays is the first book in the new Desert Football series by Christie Gordon. This is the story of JJ and Holden. JJ and Holden were rivals in highschool now JJ is a football player and Holden is the new physical trainer. JJ's last boyfriend ended up having feelings for his teammate and now he needs a way to get his teammates off his back so he gets Holden to pretend to be his new boyfriend. I loved the characters and look forward to learning more about the guys on the team. JJ and Holden are perfect for each other and I loved watching them build a relationship. This story was done so well that it felt real. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
received a free review copy

[Crystal Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

JJ and Holden were high school rivals and not friends. Now that Holden is a student trainer and assigned to help JJ on the ASU football team, tension is a little high. The two aren’t sure how their history is going to play out now.

JJ is still getting over a breakup and his friends think he just needs to get out there or hookup. On the outside JJ seems so confident and cocky, but deep down he is softer, more vulnerable. He wants something deeper. Holden was supposed to go to school on a football scholarship, but a horrible injury his senior year derailed those plains. Now he’s at ASU as a student trainer and going for his masters.

JJ needs a boyfriend, Holden needs JJ to trust him and do his treatment plan. So the two plan to “fake date” to get his friends off his back. But when lines start to blur and Holden starts to feel things, he starts to question his sexuality. I love how patient JJ is with Holden. And Holden is very open and honest with him. The two come out and talk it out and have very open communication. They explore things at their own pace. JJ steps up and he is there for Holden when he needs him.

These characters are so realistic, the stories are relatable. Fears of coming out, but having friends behind them. And then family accept and love them. It was beautiful. And these two, whew they were spicy and couldn’t keep their hands off one another.

[Poly Voltaire · Rating 5 out of 5]

-Yeah supportive boyfriend !!!!!!
-and so much comfort
-Dislike / Enemies to lovers
-Emotional and sexual intimacy
-To believe in love ;)
-First Times
-Be awakening
-Caretaking
-Supportive Friends/ families
-Coming to terms with who you are
-Family issues
-Past injury (and the grief that follows/ the after)

I loved this book.
Actually one of the best I read this year.
Their relationship felt so natural…⭐️
I laughed so much and just couldnt put it down.
Holden and JJ are made for each other, I loved seeing the different struggles of these two as a couple but also in their working life.
There was no third act break up or misunderstandings over minor things, so it was quite refreshing. These two are such a sweet couple, i fell in love with Holden And JJ 🥺💗.

Loved how much they comfort each other during tough times and are just here, standing by each other’s side, supporting the other. There was a sweet caretaking scene. Holden and JJ were each other’s pilar, throughout all the story they needed each other and were just here, like anchors. And the trust these two have toward the other, they deserved to find their happy end, they’re too Precious !
They just support each other always … And it was just so wholesome and beautiful… This read healed some part of me I didn’t even know was wounded …

Their relationship felt so Real, realistic and natural.

This book is mainly about finding and accepting yourself the live you can give and receive.
And wow, the last scene was perfection, I was waiting for it since the start ;)
Be aware though, it deals with some serious topics such as addiction, grief, coming to term with who you are, accepting love …

Hope you enjoy their story as much as I did !!!

4,5⭐️



Here are some of my favorite quotes/ moments —>

“JJ, you’ve shown me so much.” I hugged him and kissed his hair. “Today was such a shitshow, and you were unwavering through it all.” He lifted to look deeply into my eyes. “And I’ll continue it. You deserve it, Holden.” He brushed his lips across my cheek and in my ear, whispered, “You’re it for me, babe. I don’t care what anyone says or how long we’ve been together. I know it. I feel it in my soul.” As he raised his head and his gaze crept back to mine, his eyes glistened. “Seeing you hurt today almost killed me. I’d do anything to take away your pain.” He bit his lip. My eyes prickled. “JJ, I feel the same way. How is this possible?” In three months, he’d stolen every speck of my heart and soul. “When you meet the one, you know it.” With a soft smirk, he kissed the tip of my nose. “Agreed.” A broad smile stretched my lips. He made me happy, even in the worst of times. If we’d been together through my injury, how much easier would it have been?»


« Throwing the covers down, I stepped from the bed, rummaged through my dresser drawers and slipped a pair of briefs and pajama bottoms up my legs. “You want some clothes?” Would they fit him? He was a little broader than I but not as tall. Turning, I peeked at him. He lay in bed, eyes closed. “Holden.” As a grin teased my lips, I crawled over the bed and straddled him. “It’s time to get up and have breakfast.” Leaning down, I kissed him again. “Come on.” »

[Anne Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a brand-new series called desert football and in this first book we get to know Jordan JJ a bit better because you see we met him in Christie’s last book called icing the play. And in that Book JJ lost his boyfriend to a teammate. And in the beginning of this book he is still struggling with losing miles his teammates want him to go to a gay club and meet somebody and hook up but that’s never been JJ scene. He likes to get to know the guy before he takes it further, and if honest, his friends just don’t understand that.
On the first day back in training, JJ comes face-to-face with Holden who was his high school nemesis. Holden was on the same team as JJ but he felt that Holden as a quarterback didn’t pass him the ball because he didn’t like his sexuality. There’s a lot of animosity between him and Holden. But Holden is now here as one of his trainers so they need to work this out. The coach suggests that Holden takes JJ out to lunch so they can talk, but this talk changed everything. Holden knew that JJ held a grudge against him and it was making his job harder as his trainer, because he was questioning everything. But when they go and eat and Holden gets to know JJ a bit better. Holden understands him a bit better. And for JJ to trust him he needs to be his fake boyfriend and go on a date to the gay bar so he can take pictures of JJ enjoying himself so his friends get off his back. Holden isn’t homophobic and it really grates on him that JJ throws it in his face all the time so he agrees. And here starts weird feelings for Holden who always thought he was straight, so where can this go??
I’ve got to say I felt the sexual chemistry between these two straight away. There was this tension between them that just made everything electric. They had this banter I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know these two. And a simple night starts a to protectiveness in both of these men for each other. I’ve got to say the chemistry is off the chart and I really really don’t wanna give too much away. All I’m gonna say is a really good read that made me smile and laugh in places and the chemistry is really electric between these two. A great read and I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
I received a ARC from the author and this is me leaving my honest review.

[Sara Jane · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the only story I've read from this author and I wasn't impressed. @ Ch. 3, A speedo clad shot boy offered Holden free shots for kisses and Holden said No. JJ physically pushed Holden toward the guy and gave him permission. He grabbed Holden by the neck a kissed him. Holden had to push the guy away and all JJ did was laugh... There were several times Holden was uncomfortable at the "gay bar" but JJ didn't care. He just taunted him into changing his mind. (CH. 3) Explained below.

JJ convinced Holden to come to a "gay bar" to prove he wasn't homophobic, could trust him and to get his friends off his back about the ex. In Ch 3, As they head to the entrance some "twink" asked for a threesome obviously they declined, Holden to the rescue. As they walked in a speedo clad shot boy offers free shots for a kiss, Holden declined but JJ just pushed him at the guy and then laughed as the guy manhandled Holden! When Holden pushed him away JJ kinda had a change of heart and told the guy he was a little aggressive but "thanks for warming him up for me". He then taunts Holden about the kiss until Holden kisses him. FUCKING BARF. ***So poor Holdens first male kiss was a rando JJ forced him to kiss!!*** ANOTHER reason Holden came was because JJ hated the "gay bar" scene so he protected him from randos. Which he did several times. Yet when some leather clad guy hit of Holden, JJ just stayed back watching with a smirk. It wasn't until the guy rubbed his hand up Holdens thigh grazing his balls that JJ stepped in. The leather guy goes off on them about dating straight guys.

JJ was a selfish prick in the beginning over some high school drama. Holden feelings were new and uncomfortable for him, but his dick really liked JJ.

LIKES:

**The spice was very believable. I appreciated that they didn't go from blow jobs to anal. It was a slow but heated progression. I also loved that they didn't use porn as a study guide.

**Everyone in Holden's circle were shocked but accepted his sexuality.

**Side character, Eli, was great I would love to read his story.

HONORABLE DISLIKES:
**62% in and the MCs are still talking about JJs ex Myles. GET THE FUCK OVER IT! They literally only dated a few months and never got past the kissing stage. Myles was in love with his high school friend and when he came to town they got together. Cooper just happened to be JJs teammate.

**Can we normalize naming the "gay bar' in books instead of referring to it as "gay bar" throughout the whole fucking book. 49 times!!!

**JJ convinced Holden to keep texting him after the bar in exchange for doing the exercises Holden assigned him. They end up meeting for a second "date" but it was interrupted by JJs ex. They flirted relentlessly in front of Holden even going as far as JJ sliding close to the guy and putting his hand on his thigh. By this point the MCs had already kissed and connected. Holden left upset and the next day JJ bragging to friends about getting laid. (You find out later he didn't)

**Holdens brother was a big subject of the story. He was an alcoholic and drug user. At the end of the story he crashes and get seriously injured and agrees to rehab. We NEVER find out why he started drinking and partying in MIDDLE school. I was expecting maybe a traumatic experience of some sort but nope. We got nothing.

**JJ liked to overshare about his sex life with Holden(Harry) to all his buddies. (Before Holden came out to them) Holden was upset about it and asked him not to do that anymore. JJs response....something along the lines of....Come on you know how guys are.

The homophobe taunts toward Holden were unwarranted and unnecessary

Casey is a HUGE man whore in throughout the book so I'm not sure if Ill read his story.

[JG · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Hidden Plays” is the first book in Christie Gordon’s new Desert football series. As the first book in this series, it’s certainly a stand alone story, but having read all of her other series from Mesa Boys to Rock U to Desert Ice Hockey, it was really fun to catch the references to her prior series, from characters to bands and even to a bakery. Some of the main tropes you’ll find in this book are enemies to lovers, fake dating, and bisexual awakening.

Main character JJ was first introduced in the Desert Ice Hockey series and was featured more heavily in the final book in that series (Icing the Play) as a love interest of Myles. Things don’t work out between JJ and Myles, however, and JJ is a bit down about it in the earlier parts of the book. He wants to get over Myles, be in a relationship, and find real love, not just hookups/flings; the gay bar scene is not his thing at all, though his roommates are pushing it for him. He’s a senior on the ASU college football team, living with a group of other queer football players, and is hoping for an NFL spot after graduation.

Main character Holden is new to this universe, however he’s not new to JJ. As it turns out, they played high school football on the same team, though Holden’s career was cut short after an injury and he had to pivot, ending up also at ASU studying athletic training.

When Holden shows up as a student trainer for JJ’s team, JJ is displeased. Despite his attraction to Holden, JJ holds a grudge against him for getting the MVP award in high school when JJ thought he should have been the rightful awardee and felt that (prior to the injury), Holden sabotaged his chances of getting the award by not passing the ball to him often enough. He suspects that this is because Holden is homophobic. JJ doesn’t want to work with Holden because of their history, but the coach insists that they work things out. Somehow, a lunch that JJ begrudgingly attends to try to clear the air turns into a fake date at the gay club so that Holden can prove to JJ he’s not homophobic and to get JJ to trust his training advice and in return, JJ can get his nosy roommates off his back about dating. The fake date at the club is not only eye opening for Holden, but somehow progresses to an entire fake relationship. Ultimately, there is an amusing combo of fake and real dating between the men and their relationship continues all while JJ and Holden both face some family challenges before coming out (literally for Holden) on the other side with a happily ever after.

What I enjoy about all of Christie’s books is that they’re in the first person and are super descriptive. You really get a sense of people’s appearance, behavior, and the setting from how they’re written. They also strike a great balance between sweet and steamy. “Hidden Plays” was no different. I look forward to what’s next for the ASU football boys in the rest of this series.

[Jim Freihofer · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading about JJ & Myles's unfortunate breakup in the Desert Ice Hockey series, and then their "no chance of romance" final schism in the prequel to Desert Football Series, here we have Book #1 featuring JJ still jonesing over Myles and seemingly unable to totally process it and move on. Luckily JJ has his senior year at ASU and the start of football season to distract him. That is, until his old nemesis from high school Holden enters the scene as the new team trainer, and immediately gets assigned to JJ's position and rehabbing JJ's nagging injury.

We get immediate conflict between these two - but there's just enough potential to bury the hatchet. That potential comes to the surface when JJ needs a fake boyfriend to get his other queer football buddies off his back about his Myles breakup funk. In exchange for Holden playing the role of JJ's new boyfriend, JJ agrees to Holden's therapy plans.

Somewhere around the time that training camp ends and the first game of the season is almost here, cupid shoots some arrows and there's potential for a real romance. The fakeness just gets too hard to keep going, the guys realize it, and they also realize through some really interesting interaction that they actually have feelings for each other. Steamy, steamy, and more steamy!

Ever since we met him, JJ has never been my favorite Christie Gordon character. He's a serial monogamist and pretty inflexible sometimes. But at about the 50% mark of this one I started to like him more and the book really took off for me at that point. There's some angst towards the end regarding Holden's brother that brings both families together and gives both of the guys the opportunity to disclose their relationship. Bringing it out in the open really seals the deal, and Christie gives us a great HEA to close the circle. Really looking forward to book #2 in this new series, and we get a hint that it's Casey the QB's turn at bat! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Jacqueline Norman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC for an honest review.

This is a cute, low-angst, childhood enemies to lovers story. It moves a little too quickly for my taste. There are a few editing mistakes. Notably, chapter 3 is titled the wrong character.

The story is very Hallmark. It is a quick and easy read, with some heat to it. It does not dwell on the sport itself, but football is the driving setting and character framing device. Good for those who don't want to read about sports, but want to read about buff athletes.

Overall, 4/5 stars. Fun, sweet love story, but could use some development in my opinion.

Potential spoilers:
I love bi-awakenings, but this went really fast. I wish there was more development. The heat cranked up exponentially with each spicy scene and it felt rushed. The mc who definitely never thought about same-sex people before was pretty quick to jump all the way in. There was very little confusion or fear.

The spice moved fast, the love moved fast, the plot moved fast. Any potential conflicts were nearly immediately resolved, within a chapter or two.

It bothered me a lot that in the first chapter nearly every character was introduced with a hair and eye color. I really didn't care and couldn't keep them straight. I would have rather had something defining and memorable about them-tattoos, scars, unique build, style, something. I forgot all the descriptors almost immediately and had my own visions in my head on their appearances.

That said, I didn't dislike it. I just wish the story had been more stretched out and developed. I loved Noel, one of the mc's brother. The addiction aspect was a great character build. I wanted more of him. I was almost disappointed when his arc resolved so quickly.

As mentioned above, this was very Hallmark. Minor conflicts, quick love story, neat resolution and HEA. And no act 3 breakup, as often happens. It's feel-good fluff, with some spice.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one in the author’s new Desert Football series, somewhat interconnected with her Desert Ice Hockey series, and features JJ, one of the characters from Icing the Play who had fallen for Myles before Myles and Cooper got together.

JJ had never been comfortable with hooking up. He needed to feel a connection with someone before he felt comfortable enough to be intimate with them but his friends were determined that hooking up with someone would help him get over his feelings for Myles. When Holden, the quarterback from his high school playing days who stole JJ’s coveted MVP award becomes the trainer for his team, JJ gets the chance for a little payback while still getting his friends off his back by having Holden pretend to be his boyfriend.

Holden… when he was first mentioned… I was fully prepared not to care for him—how dare he steal JJ’s award! But I couldn’t help but like him after we got a chance to know him… he was just as sweet and sometimes insecure as JJ was and he wasn’t at all the bad guy JJ thought. For his part, as someone who had always considered himself to be straight, he was understandably confused but when he started falling for JJ, it was so sweet as he was trying really hard to be honest about the way he felt and not lead JJ on… that’s when I loved him!

This book was so good, I LOVED it!! In the beginning though, I was wondering what had happened to the JJ from Icing the Play ‘cause, at first, THIS JJ was NOTHING like that one but don’t worry, he’s so sweet, he couldn’t maintain that level of butt headedness for long and his natural sweet self couldn’t help but shine through. If you haven’t already read Icing the Play, or really any or all of the Desert Ice Hockey series, you should check ‘em out after this one, it’s an awesome series and SO worth reading!! Highly recommend, 5 stars!!

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

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it comes to love it seems like JJ just can’t find the one he was meant to be with. The last guy he liked ended up having feelings for his teammate and since then he has been trying to figure out a way to move on. Never did he expect that his high school rival would be his solution. When JJ sees Holden working for their college football team as a new physical trainer, he is less than happy. How can he trust Holden after how they acted around one another in high school? Especially when JJ has to put his trust in Holden when it comes to his health? All Holden wants is to be good at his job. He lost his chance for a football career back in high school after a terrible injury, being a physical therapist has become his new dream. But when JJ keeps giving him a hard time he isn’t sure what to do to gain his trust. Turns out, JJ has some ideas. JJ needs his roommates to back off about his love life and his ex. Having a fake boyfriend should do that right? He asks Holden to be his secret boyfriend and in exchange he’ll listen to him when it comes to his PT. But that sparks the beginning of what will be a very sweet relationship. Holden never felt attracted to guys before and yet JJ changes everything for him. He may still be figuring out who he is but with JJ by his side, he knows it will all be okay. Sweet story all around. It was nice to see JJ finally find his happy ending. And I really liked getting to know Holden as well! Looks like we have some interesting football players and I can’t wait to see the rest of them get their happy endings in this series.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[CreativeFreake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started first with the Desert Ice Hockey series and am now I am carrying forward with Desert Football series. I really enjoy this author's writing style. I have fallen in love with all the characters in these series (main and side) and can't wait for the next in line to find their forever.

In this book JJ has a hard, cocky exterior which hides his vulnerable side. Holden seemed like a guy who is comfortable in his own skin. He was a quieter character who seemed to question himself a lot in the beginning. Their hate for each other was palpable and well written and when that hate turned to genuine like, it was believable. I'm not a huge fan of the "fake boyfriend" trope but it worked in this story line.

It didn't take Holden long to decide he wanted JJ and not only so that he could get him to follow his PT plan. He was questioning his sexuality and was forced to make a decision after JJ made him believe he was getting closer to someone else. Once they started their relationship, they were hot and heavy, things started to go very quickly, and they were all in. JJ helped Holden through some family issues which help to solidify their relationship and made them stronger together. Through Holden’s family issues, JJ was able to resolve some family issues of his own.

There was no real angst in this story, just genuine dislike to like and a soft building of a strong relationship through trust, difference, and support. I like that the epilogue is a fairytale happy ending where the MC's get everything they worked so hard for. I can close the book with a happy heart.

I am really looking forward to the next story in this series :)

[Kurohagi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was eagerly awaiting this volume! I loved JJ's character in Icing the Play and couldn't wait to find out more about his story.
Although their relationship was short-lived and didn't go very deep, the breakup with Myles was quite painful for JJ.
JJ is such a funny and endearing character. Beneath his confident exterior, he hides great vulnerabilities and past wounds that prevent him from getting off to a good start with Holden.
Holden is also very endearing, but much more serious. He has to negotiate with JJ in order to work with him.
I love seeing the revelations and realizations of each other's wounds around a shared event from the past. I like seeing them grow closer as they realize their mistakes and gradually form a strong bond, and Holden's discovery of his bisexuality.
If you liked the Desert Ice Hockey series, you'll love this one !

---

J'attendais ce tome avec impatience ! J'ai adoré le personnage de JJ dans Icing the Play et j'avais hâte de découvrir son histoire.
Bien que leur relation ait été courte et ne se soit pas beaucoup approfondie, la rupture avec Myles a été plutôt douloureuse pour JJ.
JJ est un personnage tellement drôle et attachant. Sous ses allures sûr de lui, il cache de grandes vulnérabilités et des blessures passées qui ne le font pas repartir du bon pied avec Holden.
Holden est lui aussi très attachant, beaucoup plus sérieux. Il doit négocier avec JJ pour pouvoir travailler avec lui.
On aime voir, les révélations et les réalisations des blessures de l'un et l'autre autour d'un évènement commun du passé. On aime les voir se rapprocher en réalisant leurs méprises et peu à peu créer un lien fort et la découverte pour Holden de sa bisexualité.
Un tome dans la lignée des Desert Ice Hockey.

[Steve Pardue · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Hidden Plays' marks the exciting first installment in Christie Gordon’s new series centered around college football. Following the successful 'Desert Ice Hockey' series, this book introduces readers to a house full of gay college football players navigating their individual journeys in a relatable and heartfelt manner. The clever intertwining of their stories ensures that readers remain connected to all the characters throughout the series.

This book expertly delves into the lives of JJ Matthews and Holden Cox, two young men facing the trials of college life while unpacking family issues and personal growth. Gordon's character development is commendable, allowing readers to empathize with the protagonists as they confront their challenges head-on. Through the lens of their evolving relationship, readers are treated to a beautiful narrative of self-discovery and love.

What sets 'Hidden Plays' apart is Christie Gordon's ability to infuse humor alongside emotional depth. The blend of angst, heat, and heartwarming moments helps create a well-rounded reading experience. Fans of the author will appreciate how these elements are skillfully woven into the plot, providing both laughter and tears. Each character's journey is rich with emotion, promising a compelling read that resonates beyond the pages.

'Hidden Plays' is off to a fantastic start, laying the groundwork for a series that promises to deliver unforgettable stories filled with love, humor, and growth. Readers are sure to embrace this new chapter in Gordon's literary offerings.

[Michelle N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Plays is the first book in the new Desert Football series by Christie Gordon. This series spins off from the Desert Ice Hockey series. In fact, we met main character JJ Matthews in the last book of that series, Icing the Play, when he was dating hockey player Myles.
I loved the Desert Hockey series and was excited to read this series but I was not sure if I was going to like JJ in his own story. His character was kind of annoying to me in Myles story. His personality was able to develop in the series prequel Fumbling Hearts. JJ is a lot more complicated than he initially lets on. JJ has a successful college football career and a great group of friends but he is lonely. He really fell for Myles and not only does he miss him, he has to deal with his teammate, Cooper, being in love with him. Things get even harder when his old high school rival, Holden becomes the team’s new student trainer. JJ seems to have a lot of emotions that are all over the place with all of the changes that are happening around him.
JJ and Holden are old high school rivals and JJ holds a grudge. Due to a career ending injury Holden is trying to get his life on track and did not account for all of the feelings that come up when he sees JJ. This is a great story about two former rivals building trust and a relationship with each other. Holden’s bi-awakening is well written and his relationship with JJ is really sweet. I enjoyed this story a lot and I am glad that JJ got his happy ending and we got to know more about the football crew. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Djw · Rating 4 out of 5]

JJ + Holden - sweet & spicy

"I'm taking what's mine." (Ch. 11, Holden)

"When you meet the one, you know it." (Ch. 18, JJ)

JJ is still trying to recover from his attraction to Myles (from Desert Ice Hockey series) when his former high school quarterback and rival joins the team roster as a student trainer.

Holden has decided to become a trainer because he just wants to be a part of football after his career ending injury in high school. He wasn't expecting JJ to still hold a grudge against him. He's also never liked guys, so what are all these feelings?

JJ makes a deal with Holden to fake date to help JJ with his friends, but lines quickly start to blur for both of them. Holden soon starts struggling to accept what's happening and who he's attracted to as his real feelings for JJ grow. Holden seeks help from Eli to figure out what happening to him then it's full throttle as he goes after what he wants - JJ.

Through the help of friends, family, and much needed long talks together they make it to their well deserved HEA. Always love the open, yet sometimes hesitant, lines of communication between Christie Gordon's characters. They don't dwell too long before they reach out for help and then each other.

Sweet and super spicy bi-awakening romance between two enemies to unlikely friends to more to forever. It was great to see JJ finally getting his HEA. Wonderful start to the Desert Football and spin off from Desert Ice Hockey.

[Nancy Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hidden Plays is the first book in the new Desert Football series by Christie Gordon.

JJ and Holden were rivals in highschool (they played in the same football team).

JJ is now a football player while Holden, when he lost his chance for a football career back in high school after a bad injury, became a professional trainer.

After JJ’s breakup (in the previous book) his roommates advise him to go out and go clubbing, but JJ isn't interested in hookups and wants a serious relationship.

He asks Holden for help: if Holden plays his fake boyfriend, JJ will do Holden's therapy but they soon realize that they actually have feelings for each other.

There's some light angst in the end of the book about Holden's brother.

I loved the characters and I can’t wait to know better JJ’s friends!

This was a really sweet story, JJ and Holden are perfect for each other and I loved watching them fall in love!

Can’t wait for book 2!

I received a copy of this book for my honest review.

TROPES:

Driven Athlete
Fallen Golden Boy
Bi-Awakening
Fake Dating
Enemies to Lovers
Hurt/Comfort
Secret Relationship
Messy Emotions
Bedroom Toys


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Libro carinissimo! Ha tutto quello che amo: risveglio bisessuale, ambientata al college, sport romance e anche spicy oltre ad essere entrambi i protagonisti dolcissimi!
Ha pochissimo angst (che riguarda il fratello di Holden ma niente tra i protagonisti). È stata una lettura piacevole e lo consiglio a tutti coloro che vogliono passare qualche ora spensierata!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up to 5
This was an entertaining tale of two former high school football players who didn’t get along back then and start out the same way when Holden shows up as an intern team trainer on JJ’s college football team. When Holden is assigned JJ as one of the team members he is responsible for, JJ isn’t very happy about it, resisting his training regimen, until he basically blackmails Holden into going with him to a gay bar in exchange for trying the stretching routine. Starting that night, Holden’s “straight” identification begins to unravel, starting with a kiss and moving on to other enjoyable pastimes with JJ. Discovering he isn’t as straight as he thought he was is a process Holden must wrap his head around, but he is soon enthusiastically learning things from JJ that he had never dreamed of, contemplating coming out to friends and family, looking forward to a future with this unexpected love of his life.

Engaging characters, bi-awakening, an enthusiastic student in all things gay, supportive teammates, family drama, and finding the one person for you is an entertaining, low angst story set at ASU with a house of gay football players, friends of the gay hockey players set in Christie’s Desert Ice Hockey series. Time to go back to college with a new set of gay young men on the sports teams at Arizona State University.

I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.

[Anij · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I couldn’t look at him like this and lie to him."

I was hesitant to read this book since I never found JJ that interesting in "Icing the Play" but this is the first book in the new series and I knew I would want to read others so I went ahead and signed up for it. Well, shame on me. I was so wrong. JJ was actually almost nothing like I thought. He was actually funny, smart, loyal and surprisingly a romantic. He doesn't hook up like most of the friends. He needs to have an emotional connection to sleep with anyone. I really liked him.

Holden was very entertaining as we watched him go from completely straight to JJ's committed boyfriend. The scene in the gay bar was absolutely priceless! I kept laughing out loud. It was also hysterical watching him try to rationalize his new feeling and desire without admitting what was actually happening. It was even funnier because he and JJ really disliked each other a lot.

Once they got together the story went from funny to sweet and spicy. JJ had so much he wanted to teach Holden.

The main focus of the book is actually their love story. We also meet and get to know all the members of the Desrrt Dog's house, some more than others. JJ's bff Casey is next and he seems very amusing. I also really liked kind, compassionate Eli.

I enjoyed this low angst, steamy/sweet story that will leave you smiling at the end.

[Bill Bottomley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.

Two football rivals who hate each other. Only one is gay. And just as in her previous series on hockey players, the guys in the house are all queer. Both MCs are cool and very sympathetic. JJ is the gay one who quickly develops feelings for Holden, his former high school rival. And of course they’re reciprocated. What started out as a fake date quickly turns into the real thing, but they expend a lot of effort keeping the relationship secret, mostly for Holden reputation as being straight. Their situation is not without conflicts. Holden has an alcoholic/drug addict older brother and JJ feels that his father has been very standoffish since JJ came out. Both handle the problems in a credible way (i.e. initially badly) while sticking together. All of the characters, MCs and secondary, are believable and help work their way through the difficulties. The ending is a happy one, as can be expected, and everyone contributes to plot development. The storyline is fairly straightforward with some detours along the way but I found myself buying into the way the story moved along. The book was a tad long but that didn’t take away from my enjoyment.

I can happily recommend this book and I’m looking forward to the next one.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Plays by Christie Gordon is the first in a new series about football players at ASU. Jordan’s (JJ) dream is to make it to the NFL with his heartbreak over the summer his friends will not stop harassing him to start dating again. When his regular trainer leaves unexpectedly Holden finds out the new trainer was Holden, he was not happy. Holden was surprised to find JJ was a wide receiver at ASU and really didn’t want to deal with the arrogance he still possessed when he was in high school. But he took JJ on to help him with the
soft tissue issues he has been having if only he could get JJ to trust him and his routines to help him succeed. As they meet to talk their issues out JJ talks Holden into pretending to be his boyfriend so his friends will lay off him about dating or hooking up to get over his crush on Myles. While helping out JJ, Holden realizes he likes JJ as a person and likes spending time with him. As time goes on Holden and JJ have turned more serious. Who knew a grudge against each other would turn into something more. I really enjoyed this book. JJ and Holden were sweet and lovely and to see some of the behind the scenes for college football was fun. This was a great start to a new series.

[Marion · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the New Desert Football series and it can be a standalone read. This is the story of Jordan (JJ) Matthews and Holden Cox. The two were rivals on their high school football team. Then an accident changed Holden's career path. JJ went on to play for the Arizona State University. He is unhappily surprised when Holden shows back up inhis life. Holden is a physical therapy student at the University and he has been chosen to be the new student trainer for the team. And he has been assigned to work with JJ. Neither one is very happy about it. Holden wants to succeed in his new job so he agrees to JJ's ridiculous proposal. He will pretend to be a mysterious boyfriend to JJ to get his team and house mates off his back. In return, JJ will give Holden's exercise and rehab program an honest try. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I loved the characters and look forward to learning more about the other guys on the team. I enjoyed watching Holden's and JJ's relationship slowly evolve. I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I look forward to reading the next book in this series. This is a great enemies to lovers story.

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

JJ was first introduced in Icing the Play, he dated Myles before Myles realised he only had eyes for Cooper. At that time, I liked JJ, so I pleased he is the first to get his HEA.
Still feeling upset over Myles, JJ is being nagged by his teammates to go out and meet someone, but JJ doesn't want just a hook-up. Holden after being injured, knowing he can't have a career in the NFL, is studying as student trainer. JJ has still not forgiven Holden over an incident at High School, so how will Holden get JJ to work with him and how will JJ get his teammates of his back.
Holden was a likeable character and at the start, I could not understand why JJ despised him but as we learn more of their backstory, you can see why the incident affected JJ. But even with all of JJ animosity towards Holden, Holden stepped up to help.
The relationship blurs from fake to real seamlessly and I enjoyed watching them get closer to closer, stepping up when it was needed.
This was a quick read as there was always something going on. I know less about American Football then I do about Hockey, but my lack of knowledge did not stop me enjoying this story. With JJ's best friend Casey's story teased I am looking forward to meeting more of the Desert Football team

[Brianna Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good bi-awakening story that starts with JJ talking his former high school enemy, Holden, into pretending to be a fake boyfriend in exchange for accepting his advice and exercises as his new team trainer. During their night at the bar, it quickly becomes clear that they have a major connection beyond their mutual dislike of each other. The jealousy and banter before they accept their feelings was so fun. The shower scene was so hot and became one of my favorite spicy scenes I have read! I loved that the parents were also somewhat acquainted. Their excitement at realizing they knew each other was too cute. The support they gave to each other, both professionally and personally, was so beautiful to read. It was so nice and healing for Holden to make it to the NFL, even though he thought that dream was lost with his injury. It also made my heart so happy for Holden and Noel to reconnect, thought it took some obstacles. The epilogue was everything I could have asked for! I can’t wait to see how Casey’s love of any hookup may or may not change. This is going to be another great series! I received an advanced copy directly from the author and this is my honest review.

[Babara-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

BI-AWAKENING ENEMIES TO LOVERS!💕🏈🩷💜💙

I have been looking forward to JJ’s story since Myles broke his sweet heart for Cooper and boy what a story it is!

You get rivals, you get enemies and then you get JJ /Jordan Mathews and Holden Cox or Harry Smith as he was known to JJ’s roommates…

A fake date with JJ in a gay club to get JJ’s nosey interfering but caring teammates off his back leads straight student trainer Holden Cox to discover he is not so straight after all…

I loved their “fake“ dates that showcased just how strong their connection was and how easy Holden adjusted from being straight to being bi-sexual and attracted to a man but not just any man- Jordan Mathews- his rival and enemy from high school!

JJ was such a sweetheart and supportive partner when Holden needed him the most and Holden was the perfect trainer to support and help JJ with his thigh bone injury!

Together they were explosive and meant to be each others perfect person with family issues and the NFL potential draught picks looming….they were a match made in heaven…

I look forward to Casey finally meeting his match next…

I voluntarily received an ARC from the author for an honest non biased review.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, first there was the Mesa Boys series, then there was the Rock U series, then there was the Desert Ice Hockey series, and now we have the Desert Football series. We're getting a decent book universe here apparently although there's not as many cameos from previous series as there are in some other book universes I've read. This first book is about JJ and Holden, and it is full of tropes; we have the bisexual awakening for Holden, we have the fake-to-real boyfriend trope, and we have the enemies-to-lovers trope. Part of the plot is about Holden coming to terms with being bisexual and coming out, but another big part of it is about Holden having to deal with his brother Noel being an addict. By the end of the book, Noel is doing well in his recovery, JJ has an NFL contract with the Arizona Cardinals where Holden is able to be hired as a trainer, and they get engaged and have bought a house. So, basically, it has all the positivity of a typical HEA by this author; hardly ever do her MCs have negative consequences in their out and proud lives. Overall, it was a good sports romance, and I enjoyed it. I think I'll have fun reading this series.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mash up enemies-to-lovers, coach-player, and fake-dating tropes and you have this book. And I am here for it. JJ and Holden have a past, a past that leaves a bad taste in each of their mouths. JJ is sure Holden had it out for him in high school because he's gay. And Holden thinks JJ is nothing more than a loud mouth and a braggart. When they are forced to work together on the ASU team, those tensions come right back to the surface. JJ is out and proud, but is not that interested in hook ups. He wants a relationship, but his friends won't get off his back about getting laid. Holden is not gay, but he agrees to play JJ's fake boyfriend to get his cooperation with a new training system. True attraction takes hold and the fake relationship becomes very real. There is some good stuff in this one around family dynamics and how coming out is treated. As always, Gordon creates a fun group of friends that are a joy to read. I like the small connections to her past series as well. Would recommend.