What do you think?
Rate this book
Nolan U Football #4
The Illicit Play
He's the disciplined running back they all rely on…and the last thing he needs is a mind-blowing attraction to his teammate's younger sister. But this siren has some kind of power over him that he's struggling to resist…
I didn't mean to see her naked in the bathroom that day, but she just stood there, smirking at me. It was like she wanted me to look… but like hell I'm going there.
Her brother is overly protective to say the least and I'm not about to go messing with her. I respect him too much to even look at her again. Although, that's proving to be an impossible challenge now that she's living at Football Frat and crossing my path whenever she can.
It's taking everything in me to ignore her…until I find out that she's not the golden girl her brother thinks she is. In fact, this girl is trouble, and I'm the guy she keeps calling to save her. And every time I do, it's that much harder to fight this pull between us.
She wants me… how much longer can I keep hiding the fact that I want her too?
The Illicit Play is a stand alone, sweet and spicy NA football romance with no cheating and a guaranteed happy ending. Perfect for fans of Kelsie Rae, Hannah Gray and Rebecca Jenshak.
I didn't mean to see her naked in the bathroom that day, but she just stood there, smirking at me. It was like she wanted me to look… but like hell I'm going there.
Her brother is overly protective to say the least and I'm not about to go messing with her. I respect him too much to even look at her again. Although, that's proving to be an impossible challenge now that she's living at Football Frat and crossing my path whenever she can.
It's taking everything in me to ignore her…until I find out that she's not the golden girl her brother thinks she is. In fact, this girl is trouble, and I'm the guy she keeps calling to save her. And every time I do, it's that much harder to fight this pull between us.
She wants me… how much longer can I keep hiding the fact that I want her too?
The Illicit Play is a stand alone, sweet and spicy NA football romance with no cheating and a guaranteed happy ending. Perfect for fans of Kelsie Rae, Hannah Gray and Rebecca Jenshak.
554 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
311 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Katy Archer
46 books289 followersKaty Archer is the author of sweet and spicy college sports romance. Her debut novel, The Forbidden Freshman, released in February 2024 and is for fans of slow burn hockey romance, forbidden love, and found families.
In her novels you're guaranteed to find happy endings, protective book boyfriends and sassy heroines. Welcome to the world of Nolan U, where love is a game changer…
You can find out more on her website and sign up for a sneak peek of The Forbidden Freshman!
In her novels you're guaranteed to find happy endings, protective book boyfriends and sassy heroines. Welcome to the world of Nolan U, where love is a game changer…
You can find out more on her website and sign up for a sneak peek of The Forbidden Freshman!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 2, 2025
These Nolan U crew drive me batty. I'd rate this one 2.5 stars. The whole first smex event was just not something I cared for. (SPOILERS AHEAD) It was hard to like the h after that.
h is temporarily staying in the football house to help her injured brother, Wiley. H accidentally walked in on her in the shower. 🙃 He tries to avoid h. They both have issues
backstory on h
h was going to college in Chicago. Everybody thinks she’s the “good girl”. She became friends with Cleo, who led h into doing bad things, like stealing, skipping class, failing school, partying, and having ONS with randoms. Sometimes she would wake up with multiple random people in bed with her. So orgies
Now she’s at the football house, and she starts to do bad things again because she enjoys the rush. For example, she steals nail polish from the store. The manager confronts her. H happened to be in there and saved her. Then later, she goes to a party and gets drugged. H has to come help her.
backstory on H
H dated OW, Teah. Teah broke up with him 2 months prior. He is struggling hard because Teah is now dating another guy. An “exciting” guy. H’s POV is cringe because he does nothing but think of Teah (when he’s not lusting over h)
Cleo is now blackmailing h. h has to send her money, or Cleo threatens to send pictures to her parents showing them she’s not a perfect angel.
h’s life is spiraling fast, and she doesn’t know what to do. She goes into a liquor store and steals a beer. Gets caught. She doesn’t call her brother, she calls H. 😬
h finally breaks down and tells H everything.
h kisses H. He tells her they can’t have a relationship. Bro code (plus, his long-term relationship had just ended 2 months prior. He was still hung up on his ex) So they go back to avoiding each other for a while.
Then, the camping trip during spring break. Everybody ends up canceling for one reason or another, so it’s just H and h going. She has plans to finally have smex with H even though he has told her multiple times it can’t happen. She is determined (ugh, this is screaming desperation)
Yuck. One of H’s POVs right before the camping trip (Blake is h)
“Glancing right, I take in Blake and wish for just a second that she was Teah” 🤨
H would try to defuse any smexual situation, and she just would not quit. Yes, he was attracted to her, but he kept making it clear he didn’t want to go there.
🚩48% in the book🚩
They went swimming and h's body got super cold, where it almost went into a dangerous situation. H was trying to warm her up, and one way was with body heat. Then this all happened......
H had her in the tent under a sleeping bag. He had his underwear on, but she just grabbed his penis and shoved his underwear down and took charge. She started to do oral on him, then she flipped herself around into the 69 position 😬 When she got "off," she then quickly implanted herself on him.
He starts yelling out “protection! I’m not wearing anything.”
She goes “I’m on the pill” and “I’m clean.”
Afterwards, she’s happy, but he is not. He feels shame and regret.
And she describes him as looking sick.
She’s awful. I’m sorry, but this is all just so uncool
(This whole scene was just not cool, IMO. Naturally, others may see/read it differently, but it just didn't sit well with me.)
At this time, I started to skim. All the secrets about h are revealed. Then h’s brother finds out about H and h. He’s mad at H and thinks he’s just using his sister as a rebound. (Ya think?)
*sidenote* EVERY. SINGLE. THOUGHT. from H's POV leads anybody to believe he is still hung up on Teah. Yes, he thinks about smex with h all the time, but the other stuff...it's all Teah.
Then, Teah and her wild new boyfriend are in a car accident. Clearly, Teah’s parents LOVE H and don’t like the wild boyfriend. H and h go to the hospital. H fights with the new boyfriend, getting the new boyfriend removed from the hospital (even though it's clear the new boyfriend loves Teah)
h sees H with Teah’s parents....and she starts to maybe realize that he loves Teah. h is thinking to herself, "Teal is perfect. I'm messy, and he doesn't need somebody like me."
h decides to walk away
Teah is NOT HAPPY when she wakes up and realizes her boyfriend was kicked out and H is there. H starts to realize that maybe Teah actually loves her boyfriend. They actually talk.
Kaboom...H realizes maybe he loves h. *eyeroll* but she has left the hospital.
h goes home and packed all her stuff. She has nowhere to go except the one place she feels free. The camping spot where she fell in love with H. Except she gets lost and falls down a cliff. H goes to find her. They admit their love to each other. He has to take her to the hospital for hypothermia and a busted ankle 🙄
Absolutely nothing happened with blackmailing Cleo. She sent the pictures to h’s parents- then nothing. 🤷♀️
Sorry, I just felt like H would have taken Teah back and h was a 2nd choice. h was not a likable character, IMO
h is temporarily staying in the football house to help her injured brother, Wiley. H accidentally walked in on her in the shower. 🙃 He tries to avoid h. They both have issues
backstory on h
h was going to college in Chicago. Everybody thinks she’s the “good girl”. She became friends with Cleo, who led h into doing bad things, like stealing, skipping class, failing school, partying, and having ONS with randoms. Sometimes she would wake up with multiple random people in bed with her. So orgies
Now she’s at the football house, and she starts to do bad things again because she enjoys the rush. For example, she steals nail polish from the store. The manager confronts her. H happened to be in there and saved her. Then later, she goes to a party and gets drugged. H has to come help her.
backstory on H
H dated OW, Teah. Teah broke up with him 2 months prior. He is struggling hard because Teah is now dating another guy. An “exciting” guy. H’s POV is cringe because he does nothing but think of Teah (when he’s not lusting over h)
Cleo is now blackmailing h. h has to send her money, or Cleo threatens to send pictures to her parents showing them she’s not a perfect angel.
h’s life is spiraling fast, and she doesn’t know what to do. She goes into a liquor store and steals a beer. Gets caught. She doesn’t call her brother, she calls H. 😬
h finally breaks down and tells H everything.
h kisses H. He tells her they can’t have a relationship. Bro code (plus, his long-term relationship had just ended 2 months prior. He was still hung up on his ex) So they go back to avoiding each other for a while.
Then, the camping trip during spring break. Everybody ends up canceling for one reason or another, so it’s just H and h going. She has plans to finally have smex with H even though he has told her multiple times it can’t happen. She is determined (ugh, this is screaming desperation)
Yuck. One of H’s POVs right before the camping trip (Blake is h)
“Glancing right, I take in Blake and wish for just a second that she was Teah” 🤨
H would try to defuse any smexual situation, and she just would not quit. Yes, he was attracted to her, but he kept making it clear he didn’t want to go there.
🚩48% in the book🚩
They went swimming and h's body got super cold, where it almost went into a dangerous situation. H was trying to warm her up, and one way was with body heat. Then this all happened......
H had her in the tent under a sleeping bag. He had his underwear on, but she just grabbed his penis and shoved his underwear down and took charge. She started to do oral on him, then she flipped herself around into the 69 position 😬 When she got "off," she then quickly implanted herself on him.
He starts yelling out “protection! I’m not wearing anything.”
She goes “I’m on the pill” and “I’m clean.”
Afterwards, she’s happy, but he is not. He feels shame and regret.
And she describes him as looking sick.
She’s awful. I’m sorry, but this is all just so uncool
(This whole scene was just not cool, IMO. Naturally, others may see/read it differently, but it just didn't sit well with me.)
At this time, I started to skim. All the secrets about h are revealed. Then h’s brother finds out about H and h. He’s mad at H and thinks he’s just using his sister as a rebound. (Ya think?)
*sidenote* EVERY. SINGLE. THOUGHT. from H's POV leads anybody to believe he is still hung up on Teah. Yes, he thinks about smex with h all the time, but the other stuff...it's all Teah.
Then, Teah and her wild new boyfriend are in a car accident. Clearly, Teah’s parents LOVE H and don’t like the wild boyfriend. H and h go to the hospital. H fights with the new boyfriend, getting the new boyfriend removed from the hospital (even though it's clear the new boyfriend loves Teah)
h sees H with Teah’s parents....and she starts to maybe realize that he loves Teah. h is thinking to herself, "Teal is perfect. I'm messy, and he doesn't need somebody like me."
h decides to walk away
Teah is NOT HAPPY when she wakes up and realizes her boyfriend was kicked out and H is there. H starts to realize that maybe Teah actually loves her boyfriend. They actually talk.
Kaboom...H realizes maybe he loves h. *eyeroll* but she has left the hospital.
h goes home and packed all her stuff. She has nowhere to go except the one place she feels free. The camping spot where she fell in love with H. Except she gets lost and falls down a cliff. H goes to find her. They admit their love to each other. He has to take her to the hospital for hypothermia and a busted ankle 🙄
Absolutely nothing happened with blackmailing Cleo. She sent the pictures to h’s parents- then nothing. 🤷♀️
Sorry, I just felt like H would have taken Teah back and h was a 2nd choice. h was not a likable character, IMO
September 7, 2025
Review 📖
The Illicit Play
Nolan U Football Book 3
Written by Katy Archer
@addictedtocollegesportsromance
Blake and Grady’s romance started off so unique. I was so curious on how it would go that I was ready to dive right in after reading the tease at the end of the surprise play. I'm a huge fan of Blake’s spunky attitude. She's not afraid to show or tell Grady how she feels.
One hot encounter and they both can't stop reliving what they saw. But to Grady, Blake is off-limits because she is his best friend's sister and he's been through enough recently that he doesn't have to worry about Grady and his sister. There is definite chemistry between them and Grady won't be able to ignore it forever. These two are perfect for each other and that is a hard thing to ignore when they cannot constantly feel the tension between them. Full of angst with a side of who will give in first? let me tell you when the moment does happen hot damn!
I enjoyed Blake and Grady's story. It was a very entertaining ride and I'm a huge fan of the brothers' best friend trope.
I'm excited to read Tyrell's story as I'm so curious to see how it will unfold for him and the girls who got away but I also have a feeling it's going to hurt at the same time.
#nolanu
#footballromance
#onlyonetent
#brothersbestfriend
#forcedproximity
#forbbiden
#Flash
#Vixen
#Bee
#trouble
#bearfreakinggrylls
#hikingtrip
#footballfrat
#secretromance
#Wilson
#Newman
#Blackbear
#🐻🐝
#baby
#cosmicmatch
The Illicit Play
Nolan U Football Book 3
Written by Katy Archer
@addictedtocollegesportsromance
Blake and Grady’s romance started off so unique. I was so curious on how it would go that I was ready to dive right in after reading the tease at the end of the surprise play. I'm a huge fan of Blake’s spunky attitude. She's not afraid to show or tell Grady how she feels.
One hot encounter and they both can't stop reliving what they saw. But to Grady, Blake is off-limits because she is his best friend's sister and he's been through enough recently that he doesn't have to worry about Grady and his sister. There is definite chemistry between them and Grady won't be able to ignore it forever. These two are perfect for each other and that is a hard thing to ignore when they cannot constantly feel the tension between them. Full of angst with a side of who will give in first? let me tell you when the moment does happen hot damn!
I enjoyed Blake and Grady's story. It was a very entertaining ride and I'm a huge fan of the brothers' best friend trope.
I'm excited to read Tyrell's story as I'm so curious to see how it will unfold for him and the girls who got away but I also have a feeling it's going to hurt at the same time.
#nolanu
#footballromance
#onlyonetent
#brothersbestfriend
#forcedproximity
#forbbiden
#Flash
#Vixen
#Bee
#trouble
#bearfreakinggrylls
#hikingtrip
#footballfrat
#secretromance
#Wilson
#Newman
#Blackbear
#🐻🐝
#baby
#cosmicmatch
October 2, 2025
I knew from Grady and Blake’s interaction at the end of The Surprise Play that they were going to have chemistry. And they delivered! Grady views Blake as off-limits because she is his best friend/teammate’s younger sister. But Grady can’t ignore their chemistry forever. Especially when both keep reliving what happened in the bathroom. Blake makes ignoring her impossible, especially because they live in the same house. She gets enjoyment in making him uncomfortable in front of her brother.
Grady is a cinnamon roll. He is the one you call when you need help, with anything. He is dependable. Always has a plan. Blake has played the brainiac daughter/little sister role as she was expected to. Feeling suffocated by expectations. It’s no wonder at the first sign of freedom she tried to find who she is outside those expectations.
Grady has been plagued with someone else’s opinions about himself. Blake is the firecracker that really lit up his world. Grady shows Blake a whole new perspective through the serenity of the outdoors. He helped bring a calmness to her.
As always, Katy had me crying in the last 10% of the book. Can’t wait for Tyrell’s book. From the last chapter, I have a feeling I might need a whole tissue box for that one.
Grady is a cinnamon roll. He is the one you call when you need help, with anything. He is dependable. Always has a plan. Blake has played the brainiac daughter/little sister role as she was expected to. Feeling suffocated by expectations. It’s no wonder at the first sign of freedom she tried to find who she is outside those expectations.
Grady has been plagued with someone else’s opinions about himself. Blake is the firecracker that really lit up his world. Grady shows Blake a whole new perspective through the serenity of the outdoors. He helped bring a calmness to her.
As always, Katy had me crying in the last 10% of the book. Can’t wait for Tyrell’s book. From the last chapter, I have a feeling I might need a whole tissue box for that one.
September 26, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
The Illicit Play is the latest release in Nolan U Football series by author Katy Archer.
In this Brother’s Best Friend, Forced Proximity, Forbidden, Secret Romance, we follow the story of Nolan U Football team running back Grady Newman and Blakely ‘Blake’ Wilson little sister of Wily in their dual narrative.
The story of Grady and Blake definitely started with a bang, if you take into account the peek we were given at the end of Wily and Satch’s story The Surprise Play with Grady’s chapter that had him meeting Blake in the most unexpected ways.
It was no surprise that Grady and Blake’s story would go onto be entertaining at times.
Seeing the way Blake would tease him and flirt with him, trying to push his buttons was funny to see. More so, since she didn’t want to accept no as an answer. Even though you could see his feelings were mutual.
Although it made it a nice change of pace, seeing the guy, in this case Grady trying to hold off, be strong and not give into temptation. Especially when it meant breaking bro-code. It made me love his character even more. The fact that he was willing to put others before himself and his feelings.
That side of their journey, along with the constant back and forth, pushing and pulling made the story more enjoyable, it added a light-ness, considering what the other side bought forth.
As well as allowing us to see more evolving occurring in their relationship that would eventually take them in a slowly but surely something more. Seeing as the chemistry was very much there, alive and sending off sparks with every new interaction between Grady and Blake.
The other aspect of the story came from being serious and sometimes intense, given the angsty-ness alongside the deep emotions ventured through and felt.
Particularly when it came to what we learn of Blake and her story, especially her past that continued to play a major part in her life at Nolan U. Given the struggles and trouble she found herself in from the situations she put herself in, sometimes leading to potential danger.
I will say I do wish there had been some more shown in regards to Blake’s backstory. More so towards the end, since what was showcased just didn’t seem enough to wrap it all up once and for all in my opinion at least.
In the end, The Illicit Play still made for a good read. Especially when it came to seeing Grady be there for Blake in so many ways, when she felt she had no one she could really turn to. And be the person she didn’t know she needed. Her hero of sorts.
It ultimately made for the right combination of entertaining and seriousness.
And from the little peeks and then the last chapter from Tyrell, safe to say I am looking forward to his and Dani’s story The Perfect Play next.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Illicit Play is the latest release in Nolan U Football series by author Katy Archer.
In this Brother’s Best Friend, Forced Proximity, Forbidden, Secret Romance, we follow the story of Nolan U Football team running back Grady Newman and Blakely ‘Blake’ Wilson little sister of Wily in their dual narrative.
The story of Grady and Blake definitely started with a bang, if you take into account the peek we were given at the end of Wily and Satch’s story The Surprise Play with Grady’s chapter that had him meeting Blake in the most unexpected ways.
It was no surprise that Grady and Blake’s story would go onto be entertaining at times.
Seeing the way Blake would tease him and flirt with him, trying to push his buttons was funny to see. More so, since she didn’t want to accept no as an answer. Even though you could see his feelings were mutual.
Although it made it a nice change of pace, seeing the guy, in this case Grady trying to hold off, be strong and not give into temptation. Especially when it meant breaking bro-code. It made me love his character even more. The fact that he was willing to put others before himself and his feelings.
That side of their journey, along with the constant back and forth, pushing and pulling made the story more enjoyable, it added a light-ness, considering what the other side bought forth.
As well as allowing us to see more evolving occurring in their relationship that would eventually take them in a slowly but surely something more. Seeing as the chemistry was very much there, alive and sending off sparks with every new interaction between Grady and Blake.
The other aspect of the story came from being serious and sometimes intense, given the angsty-ness alongside the deep emotions ventured through and felt.
Particularly when it came to what we learn of Blake and her story, especially her past that continued to play a major part in her life at Nolan U. Given the struggles and trouble she found herself in from the situations she put herself in, sometimes leading to potential danger.
I will say I do wish there had been some more shown in regards to Blake’s backstory. More so towards the end, since what was showcased just didn’t seem enough to wrap it all up once and for all in my opinion at least.
In the end, The Illicit Play still made for a good read. Especially when it came to seeing Grady be there for Blake in so many ways, when she felt she had no one she could really turn to. And be the person she didn’t know she needed. Her hero of sorts.
It ultimately made for the right combination of entertaining and seriousness.
And from the little peeks and then the last chapter from Tyrell, safe to say I am looking forward to his and Dani’s story The Perfect Play next.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2025
I was obsessed with the chemistry between Blake and Grady just from the one scene we got in the book before this and Katy Archer delivered here. There was a lot of back and forth will they won’t they angst and their banter was everything.
Grady is this sweet cinnamon roll kinda character who really struggles with some words that stuck with him about who he is. It was such a journey watching him realize everything he is and can be. Watching him learn about himself and about Blake. Blake is witty and fun but she’s hiding a secret underneath her give no fs attitude.
I loved the banter between them the most. Blake is so funny and witty and she made their journey so worth the read. We get another dose of Wiley and his crazy antics and I love that each book you get to go a little deeper for all these characters who live within their found families. It’s like the story never ends.
I loved the friendship they formed with each other and how much they were there for each other despite everything. I am looking forward to what comes next with Tyrell and his girl.
Grady is this sweet cinnamon roll kinda character who really struggles with some words that stuck with him about who he is. It was such a journey watching him realize everything he is and can be. Watching him learn about himself and about Blake. Blake is witty and fun but she’s hiding a secret underneath her give no fs attitude.
I loved the banter between them the most. Blake is so funny and witty and she made their journey so worth the read. We get another dose of Wiley and his crazy antics and I love that each book you get to go a little deeper for all these characters who live within their found families. It’s like the story never ends.
I loved the friendship they formed with each other and how much they were there for each other despite everything. I am looking forward to what comes next with Tyrell and his girl.
September 27, 2025
Cosmic Love
Blake and Grady’s attraction is instant, and no matter how much Grady tries to keep his distance, Blake has other ideas. However, Blake is struggling with past choices made and how quickly the wrong path and dishonesty can spiral.
Grady is supportive of Blake and encourages her to open up to her family with what makes her happy, rather than going along with what is expected of her. Keeping their relationship a secret has it’s own repercussions, but when a scare for Blake’s safety happens, the depth of their love helps Blake find her true self and the courage to stand up for what she wants.
Blake and Grady’s attraction is instant, and no matter how much Grady tries to keep his distance, Blake has other ideas. However, Blake is struggling with past choices made and how quickly the wrong path and dishonesty can spiral.
Grady is supportive of Blake and encourages her to open up to her family with what makes her happy, rather than going along with what is expected of her. Keeping their relationship a secret has it’s own repercussions, but when a scare for Blake’s safety happens, the depth of their love helps Blake find her true self and the courage to stand up for what she wants.
October 1, 2025
Ohh the Feels!! The Illicit Play has taken me in an emotional roller coaster with Blake and Grady’s story. Their story is a college football story with secrets, and finding oneself. Blake has been through a lot with her rebel actions and finally being open with Grady was freeing for her. I love how calm and protective Grady is and how he became the biggest supporter for her. Their chemistry is to die for and when they stop fighting the attraction things just started to come together. I love reading about the other couples and seeing how they would do anything for their friends. I love their story and can’t wait to read the next one!!
September 22, 2025
Grady and Blake bring the perfect mix of tension and temptation
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
The Illicit Play by Katy Archer is a fun and steamy forbidden romance that captures the thrill of wanting what you shouldn’t have. Grady, the disciplined running back, is determined to keep his hands off Blake—his teammate’s younger sister—but she makes ignoring her impossible. Their push-and-pull creates delicious tension, with Blake’s boldness clashing against Grady’s restraint until sparks finally fly. While the “can’t but want to” moments felt a touch repetitive, their chemistry and eventual payoff made the journey worthwhile. Sweet, spicy, and full of football frat vibes, this is a solid addition to the Nolan U Football series.
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
The Illicit Play by Katy Archer is a fun and steamy forbidden romance that captures the thrill of wanting what you shouldn’t have. Grady, the disciplined running back, is determined to keep his hands off Blake—his teammate’s younger sister—but she makes ignoring her impossible. Their push-and-pull creates delicious tension, with Blake’s boldness clashing against Grady’s restraint until sparks finally fly. While the “can’t but want to” moments felt a touch repetitive, their chemistry and eventual payoff made the journey worthwhile. Sweet, spicy, and full of football frat vibes, this is a solid addition to the Nolan U Football series.
September 23, 2025
This book is Nolan U football book 4, I found this book such an enjoyable read. As soon as I finished I was left feeling overjoyed with the ending and how this love story played out.
I love a forbidden romance and this one didn’t disappoint. The male main character Grady is a player for the Nolan U Cougars and the female main character Blake is the sister of one of his teammates and best friend Wily, the male main character of the last book in the series.
After Wily became injured Blake went to stay at football frat to help him out but there was also another reason that is revealed in the book. This let to the forced proximity of Blake and Grady and it was chefs kiss🤌🏼
Grady and Blake bonded from the get go and it was lovely to read, as Grady shared his love for hiking with Blake who fell in love with it and used it as an escape from other things going on. I loved the way Grady helped Blake through a difficult time when she felt like she had no one to turn to.
I absolutely love this series and the way Katy Archer always ends her books with an insight into the next book of the series.
If you love a forbidden romance this one is for you!!! Paperback is out today and the kindle edition is out on the 30th of September!⭐️
I love a forbidden romance and this one didn’t disappoint. The male main character Grady is a player for the Nolan U Cougars and the female main character Blake is the sister of one of his teammates and best friend Wily, the male main character of the last book in the series.
After Wily became injured Blake went to stay at football frat to help him out but there was also another reason that is revealed in the book. This let to the forced proximity of Blake and Grady and it was chefs kiss🤌🏼
Grady and Blake bonded from the get go and it was lovely to read, as Grady shared his love for hiking with Blake who fell in love with it and used it as an escape from other things going on. I loved the way Grady helped Blake through a difficult time when she felt like she had no one to turn to.
I absolutely love this series and the way Katy Archer always ends her books with an insight into the next book of the series.
If you love a forbidden romance this one is for you!!! Paperback is out today and the kindle edition is out on the 30th of September!⭐️
September 9, 2025
Grady and Blake are the perfect couple. Katy does a great job bringing these characters to life and making you feel everything they are feeling. If you have loved the other books in this series, you will love this one as well.
September 24, 2025
I am so in love with this series! This couple was great and Grady is literally the best book boyfriend. I also loved getting to continue seeing Wily and Satch in this book, and continue on Wily's recovery. Just love so much and cannot wait for the next book! ❤️
September 12, 2025
I love Blake and Grady so much. Blake is the wild one who needs Grady to help claim her. He helps ground her and helps her find her true self. I love their dynamic and the way Blake’s character grew throughout this book.
October 6, 2025
blake was annoying, grady was still obsessed with his ex….not her best work
February 20, 2026
4.5.
Ok. Someone tell me how to get on Katy Archer’s ARC team!! I love this group of friends. I love the little mentions of the hockey crew too!! If you like college romance… you need to be reading her books. Start with Forbidden Freshman ❤️❤️
Ok. Someone tell me how to get on Katy Archer’s ARC team!! I love this group of friends. I love the little mentions of the hockey crew too!! If you like college romance… you need to be reading her books. Start with Forbidden Freshman ❤️❤️
September 29, 2025
ARC Review of The Illicit Play Book 4 in The Nolan U Football Series by Katy Archer This book is part of an interconnected series but can be read as a stand alone but I recommend at least reading The Surprise Play (Wily and Elizabeth’s book) before this one for a better understanding of the characters since Blake is Wily's little sister and she’s in that book quite a bit and Grady's final chapter in The Surprise Play leads us into the beginning of this book. Grady is part of the football team and is in all the previous books. I absolutely loved this book it is a 5 star read for me, I am obsessed with this whole series and the whole Nolan U world. I love how real and relatable it is and all the feels and emotions and the depth of this book. I love the topics addressed in this book of the pressure of being perfect and then the rush of freedom being away at college and then being influenced by others, making bad choices and getting in trouble and dealing with the consequences. What Blake’s going through breaks my heart she is spiraling and really struggling but is hiding it and won’t ask anyone for help she just keeps lying and doesn’t know how to get out of it. I love Grady is such a good guy and always helping others even when he’s having a tough time. Also I love their random inner thoughts they have they are so funny. This is a brother’s teammate, brother’s best friend, college, roommates, secrets, spicy, slow burn, football romance. This is Grady and Blake's story. Grady is a junior at Nolan U and a running back on the football team he lives at Football Frat with the other guys. Blake is Wily’s little sister and she just moved into Football Frat to help Wily while he recovers from his knee surgery. Blake was attending her first year of college in Chicago when she packed up and left to come stay with her brother in Colorado. Grady recently had his heart broken when his girlfriend who he was in love with broke up with him two months ago, he can’t get her out of his head and still loves her but he is also navigating his attraction to Blake and his guilt for wanting his best friend’s little sister. Blake has been hiding major secrets about what really happened in Chicago from everyone, especially her parents and brother. She is trying to forget about her problems when she gets into trouble at a party and Grady ends up coming to her rescue and finding out one of her secrets. Blake keeps getting in trouble and Grady bails her out again but he sees she’s struggling and wants to help her she confides in him all her secrets she is so afraid of her brother and parents finding out how bad she messed up that she keeps digging herself deeper until she doesn’t see a way out. I love how Grady is there for her even while going through his own struggles and heartbreak. Even though he wants her he refuses to cross that line because of Wily, but when Grady takes Blake on a hiking trip with him for spring break, the nature, forced proximity, and privacy has them crossing that line and he can’t fight it anymore. I love watching their relationship grow and watching them let go and having Blake find herself and watching Grady truly figure out want he really wants and want to do with his life. I highly recommend this book
October 7, 2025
Blake and Grady
So I wasn’t too interested in Blake when she appeared in Wily’s book. Usually the little sisters in these sports books are portrayed as being virginal, sweet, smart and perfect. Boring! For a while, that’s what everyone including Grady thought of Blake. She is so much more and carried a huge secret with her when she appeared at the frat house. So when the facade that Blake perfected over the years cracks, Grady is right there to help pick up the pieces.
I love that these two actually communicate openly and honestly before things get really physical. And they don’t make judgments about each other based on superficial things. Grady is honorable and loyal to his friends. Even when he’s been betrayed. (Looking at you Teah!) He’s also forgiving and tolerant. He seems to be the most self-aware MMC in this series. Basically he treats people the way he’d like to be treated. I can see him being a lifelong friend to everyone at the football frat.
And yeah, when all her secrets come out, Blake is one cringey hot mess but thankfully, she’s young enough to recover and start over. She was frustrating and annoying at times but also very relatable in not wanting to disappoint her parents and Wily. Like so many of us girls, she’s a complex woman just trying to find a path to happiness. I’m glad she was able to find her way to doing what she wanted rather than what her family expected. She has to start over pretty much from scratch but I know that she’ll enjoy the journey with Grady by her side, This story is about forgiving yourself, finding your own path, taking accountability for past mistakes and owning them. And of course, finding and nurturing a deep and lasting love.
Like most of this series, it’s very well written. I love the banter between the different characters from previous books and also the small references to a couple of Hockey House characters. That series will always be my favorite. So excited to read about Dani and Tyrell next.
So I wasn’t too interested in Blake when she appeared in Wily’s book. Usually the little sisters in these sports books are portrayed as being virginal, sweet, smart and perfect. Boring! For a while, that’s what everyone including Grady thought of Blake. She is so much more and carried a huge secret with her when she appeared at the frat house. So when the facade that Blake perfected over the years cracks, Grady is right there to help pick up the pieces.
I love that these two actually communicate openly and honestly before things get really physical. And they don’t make judgments about each other based on superficial things. Grady is honorable and loyal to his friends. Even when he’s been betrayed. (Looking at you Teah!) He’s also forgiving and tolerant. He seems to be the most self-aware MMC in this series. Basically he treats people the way he’d like to be treated. I can see him being a lifelong friend to everyone at the football frat.
And yeah, when all her secrets come out, Blake is one cringey hot mess but thankfully, she’s young enough to recover and start over. She was frustrating and annoying at times but also very relatable in not wanting to disappoint her parents and Wily. Like so many of us girls, she’s a complex woman just trying to find a path to happiness. I’m glad she was able to find her way to doing what she wanted rather than what her family expected. She has to start over pretty much from scratch but I know that she’ll enjoy the journey with Grady by her side, This story is about forgiving yourself, finding your own path, taking accountability for past mistakes and owning them. And of course, finding and nurturing a deep and lasting love.
Like most of this series, it’s very well written. I love the banter between the different characters from previous books and also the small references to a couple of Hockey House characters. That series will always be my favorite. So excited to read about Dani and Tyrell next.
September 30, 2025
Katy Archer does it again! I am so amazed by each story she puts out that continues to bring us into the Nolan U universe while presenting real life situations that many, myself included, can relate to. It makes reading her work so much fun and this book is no exception.
Here we have a story of a forbidden romance-the teammate’s sister who is off limits no matter how much she is wanted. However, through some fun and flirty banter and continued rescuing, it proves hard to resist. Grady and Blake are complete opposites yet they complement each other in the best of ways. Where Grady is sensible, level headed and reliable, Blake is wild, fun loving, and secret keeping. She puts off that she has it all together and is sweet and innocent, while in reality, she is lost and doesn’t know who she is, making choices that leave her spiraling further and further. Through many rescues and close proximity situations, we see Blake and Grady grow closer and closer, helping each other in the best of ways, navigating some of life’s biggest challenges while learning some of the most valuable lessons.
With Katy’s writing, not only do I feel like I’m there with these two, I feel like my heart strings are being tugged multiple times while I laugh, cry, and swoon in all of the best ways. Thank you for these two characters and this story. It was one I didn’t know I needed until I read it. Can’t wait to see where we go next 🥰
Here we have a story of a forbidden romance-the teammate’s sister who is off limits no matter how much she is wanted. However, through some fun and flirty banter and continued rescuing, it proves hard to resist. Grady and Blake are complete opposites yet they complement each other in the best of ways. Where Grady is sensible, level headed and reliable, Blake is wild, fun loving, and secret keeping. She puts off that she has it all together and is sweet and innocent, while in reality, she is lost and doesn’t know who she is, making choices that leave her spiraling further and further. Through many rescues and close proximity situations, we see Blake and Grady grow closer and closer, helping each other in the best of ways, navigating some of life’s biggest challenges while learning some of the most valuable lessons.
With Katy’s writing, not only do I feel like I’m there with these two, I feel like my heart strings are being tugged multiple times while I laugh, cry, and swoon in all of the best ways. Thank you for these two characters and this story. It was one I didn’t know I needed until I read it. Can’t wait to see where we go next 🥰
September 28, 2025
I enjoyed Grady and Blake's romance. The chemistry between these two was incandescent and their attraction was simply undeniable. The storyline is packed with tension, drama, emotion, feels, heart, humor, poignancy and spice that provides a solid workout for your own feelings and emotions as this couple's relationship blooms. I thought Grady was big time swoon worthy and just a really good all-around guy. As for Blake, well I must admit she was not my favorite character. I often felt for her and even at times kind of liked her, but I had some very big issues with her that just bothered me so much that they proved to insurmountable to let go or move past. Despite that this was a very good book and it is in an awesome series that I highly recommend.
September 27, 2025
Grady is the reliable one, the pacemaker, the organiser and the boring one. At least according to his ex-girlfriend. The one he thought he was going to marry one day. Blake is the nerd and studious one, and she is taking care of her big brother after his surgery. Or she was like that before she went to college in Chicago and everything exploded. The chemistry, the tension, the attraction between Blake and Grady is powerful but forbidden. Can they find their way to each other and fight for their relationship? Spicy, powerful and full of tension and feelings.
October 9, 2025
I am reviewing as an ARC reader. My heart goes out to Blake while reading this. I hate that she felt like she couldn’t tell Wiley what went down in Chicago and had to keep it to herself. She was one of my favorite characters throughout the series. I’m glad Grady finally moved on from his ex and gave Blake a chance. They really needed each other. My only complaint was that this was the classic best friends sister romance, where it’s a secret relationship and the brother finds them in a cliche moment and it causes a whole fight. Other than that it was good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2025
loved this
Man did I love this book so much. Their chemistry is off the charts and what she went through is hard to get over. She finds her purpose and he is there to help her sort through and pick up the pieces. He’s the perfect book boyfriend I loved it
Man did I love this book so much. Their chemistry is off the charts and what she went through is hard to get over. She finds her purpose and he is there to help her sort through and pick up the pieces. He’s the perfect book boyfriend I loved it
October 8, 2025
This book was so good! Honestly I stayed up so late to finish this book! Was worth the read and all the hotness from it! ♥️ can’t wait for the last one! Also, can’t wait to find out who goes pro and their HEA!!
October 4, 2025
love love love
I have read all of her books and each one keeps me coming back for the next! ❤️ and the spicy scenes. I mean 😅
I have read all of her books and each one keeps me coming back for the next! ❤️ and the spicy scenes. I mean 😅
October 4, 2025
A massive book! Can’t wait until the next release. Great writing.
November 4, 2025
2.5/5 ⭐️
I’ve loved all of Katy Archer’s books so far, but this one fell short for me, unfortunately.
I feel like I read a completely different book from everyone else based on reviews. This one just felt messy.
Grady’s still hung up on Teah and Blake is a complete mess, which there’s nothing wrong with that, but I feel like Blake needs to be single and figure out herself and Grady needs to take the time to get over Teah. It felt very lusty and that Blake was more of a filler for Grady, a second choice.
I received this book as an ARC in return for an honest review.
~ARC Review
I’ve loved all of Katy Archer’s books so far, but this one fell short for me, unfortunately.
I feel like I read a completely different book from everyone else based on reviews. This one just felt messy.
Grady’s still hung up on Teah and Blake is a complete mess, which there’s nothing wrong with that, but I feel like Blake needs to be single and figure out herself and Grady needs to take the time to get over Teah. It felt very lusty and that Blake was more of a filler for Grady, a second choice.
I received this book as an ARC in return for an honest review.
~ARC Review
September 29, 2025
❀“Sh*t, she’s fire. And I’m gonna get so f*cking burned in this forest.” ♥
Through all the books in this series, Grady has always come across as such a sweetheart, and I was so glad to see that those glimpses of him proved to be completely accurate here. Blake, on the other hand, was incredibly relatable: constantly weighed down by the pressure to excel academically, terrified of disappointing her family, and paralyzed by the fear of failure. What I loved most was how vulnerable she allowed herself to be with Grady. Even when she couldn’t open up to anyone else, she trusted him enough to let him in, which made their connection feel so genuine and layered. Archer’s careful crafting of Blake’s character was outstanding; from her internal struggles to the mask she wore in public, every detail of her mental state was written with so much care and authenticity.
♥“I’m a tr-tr…train wreck, Grady.” ❀
Grady himself absolutely stole the show for me. He didn’t surpass Carson as my favorite Nolan U Football MMC, but he easily cemented himself as a solid second. I mean, how can you not love a man who cooks, cleans, adores nature, and goes out of his way to help people even when it costs him something? He was a quiet beam of support for Blake through everything, never pushing her before she was ready, but always being there when she needed him. Their dynamic was such a delight, especially with Blake often being the more assertive one when it came to pushing their relationship forward. Grady’s attempts to keep things platonic out of respect for his friendship with Wily were both admirable and heartbreaking, because it was clear how much he wanted her. That tension, the pull between restraint and desire, gave their relationship an undercurrent of heat even before anything physical happened, and when it finally did, it felt well-earned and deeply tied to their emotional bond.
♥ “...I resist the urge to reach out…and assure her that any guy would be lucky to have her. Even just one date with this woman would make a guy’s year.” ❀
Not everything was smooth sailing, of course. The situation with Teah was frustrating; it wasn’t quite “other-woman drama,” but it skirted close enough to make me bristle at times. I understood both Blake and Grady’s perspectives, though, and while stronger communication might have cleared things up, it did serve its purpose in creating that big “tension moment.” My only real frustration was how often Grady compared Blake to Teah in his internal monologue; it happened enough that it started to grate, even though it highlighted just how different Blake truly was.
❀ “He’s the one who makes me feel safe enough to be myself…I’ve never felt more free than when I’m with him.” ♥
What I adored most, though, was how wholesome Grady and Blake’s journey felt. The way Grady bonded with Blake over something he genuinely loved, and in turn helped her rediscover herself and carve out her own future, was so moving. Their romance was tender, supportive, and heartfelt, but also threaded with sparks of tension that kept me hooked. By the end, it felt less like a simple love story and more like a partnership built on trust, healing, and mutual growth.
Spice: 2/5
Tropes:
♥ Brother’s Best Friend/Teammate ❀
❀ Found Family ♥
♥ Secret Romance ❀
❀ Protective MMC ♥
♥ “So, no, you can’t control life…Life is still gonna kick you in the balls and point at you, laughing its head off while you writhe on the ground in pain.” ❀
♥❀♥---ARC Review---❀♥❀
Through all the books in this series, Grady has always come across as such a sweetheart, and I was so glad to see that those glimpses of him proved to be completely accurate here. Blake, on the other hand, was incredibly relatable: constantly weighed down by the pressure to excel academically, terrified of disappointing her family, and paralyzed by the fear of failure. What I loved most was how vulnerable she allowed herself to be with Grady. Even when she couldn’t open up to anyone else, she trusted him enough to let him in, which made their connection feel so genuine and layered. Archer’s careful crafting of Blake’s character was outstanding; from her internal struggles to the mask she wore in public, every detail of her mental state was written with so much care and authenticity.
♥“I’m a tr-tr…train wreck, Grady.” ❀
❀ “You’re my train wreck.” ♥
Grady himself absolutely stole the show for me. He didn’t surpass Carson as my favorite Nolan U Football MMC, but he easily cemented himself as a solid second. I mean, how can you not love a man who cooks, cleans, adores nature, and goes out of his way to help people even when it costs him something? He was a quiet beam of support for Blake through everything, never pushing her before she was ready, but always being there when she needed him. Their dynamic was such a delight, especially with Blake often being the more assertive one when it came to pushing their relationship forward. Grady’s attempts to keep things platonic out of respect for his friendship with Wily were both admirable and heartbreaking, because it was clear how much he wanted her. That tension, the pull between restraint and desire, gave their relationship an undercurrent of heat even before anything physical happened, and when it finally did, it felt well-earned and deeply tied to their emotional bond.
♥ “...I resist the urge to reach out…and assure her that any guy would be lucky to have her. Even just one date with this woman would make a guy’s year.” ❀
Not everything was smooth sailing, of course. The situation with Teah was frustrating; it wasn’t quite “other-woman drama,” but it skirted close enough to make me bristle at times. I understood both Blake and Grady’s perspectives, though, and while stronger communication might have cleared things up, it did serve its purpose in creating that big “tension moment.” My only real frustration was how often Grady compared Blake to Teah in his internal monologue; it happened enough that it started to grate, even though it highlighted just how different Blake truly was.
❀ “He’s the one who makes me feel safe enough to be myself…I’ve never felt more free than when I’m with him.” ♥
What I adored most, though, was how wholesome Grady and Blake’s journey felt. The way Grady bonded with Blake over something he genuinely loved, and in turn helped her rediscover herself and carve out her own future, was so moving. Their romance was tender, supportive, and heartfelt, but also threaded with sparks of tension that kept me hooked. By the end, it felt less like a simple love story and more like a partnership built on trust, healing, and mutual growth.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Spice: 2/5
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tropes:
♥ Brother’s Best Friend/Teammate ❀
❀ Found Family ♥
♥ Secret Romance ❀
❀ Protective MMC ♥
♥ “So, no, you can’t control life…Life is still gonna kick you in the balls and point at you, laughing its head off while you writhe on the ground in pain.” ❀
September 21, 2025
Every book in this series seems to up the emotional ante from the previous installment, and The Illicit Play is no exception. Full of angst and smexual tension, it follows the story of Football Frat’s ultimate good guy, Grady. He’s the responsible one. The level-headed, loyal, honorable one who watches out for everyone. So, it really isn’t a surprise when he takes it upon himself to help Blake in her time of need. But he soon finds out that she’s a force to be reckoned with and surprises him in more ways than just their first meeting. She also causes him a lot of new problems, not the least of which is insane chemistry and the fact she’s his best friend’s little sister, and therefore, completely off limits.
Unfortunately for Grady, no one told Blake that. Or actually, they (and he) did, but she doesn’t really care. She’s decided that she wants Grady and is going to do whatever it takes to get him. Vibrant and bubbly, she makes everyone smile. What we find is that her spunky persona is really a defense mechanism to hide the scared, lost-her-way girl who finds herself in a landslide of trouble. Luckily for her, Grady doesn’t have it in him to not help.
The great thing about this pair is that they rescue each other in more ways than one. They bring out the best in each other and honestly couldn’t be more perfect together. It just takes a little time and a few bumps in the hiking path to get to their happily ever after.
This author does emotion and character development so well, and her writing flows beautifully. The found family of everyone at Football Frat is so much fun, and so “always there” for each other, you’ll want to move in with them, I guarantee!
I’m loving this series! Can’t wait for Tyrell’s story!
Unfortunately for Grady, no one told Blake that. Or actually, they (and he) did, but she doesn’t really care. She’s decided that she wants Grady and is going to do whatever it takes to get him. Vibrant and bubbly, she makes everyone smile. What we find is that her spunky persona is really a defense mechanism to hide the scared, lost-her-way girl who finds herself in a landslide of trouble. Luckily for her, Grady doesn’t have it in him to not help.
The great thing about this pair is that they rescue each other in more ways than one. They bring out the best in each other and honestly couldn’t be more perfect together. It just takes a little time and a few bumps in the hiking path to get to their happily ever after.
This author does emotion and character development so well, and her writing flows beautifully. The found family of everyone at Football Frat is so much fun, and so “always there” for each other, you’ll want to move in with them, I guarantee!
I’m loving this series! Can’t wait for Tyrell’s story!
September 30, 2025
I loved this one! It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention the entire time. I loved getting to dive deeper into knowing Grady and he is exactly who we thought he was throughout the rest of the series. He is a sweetheart, steady and just a good guy that people can count on. It turns out that is what Blake needs right now. Blake is his teammate's little sister so Grady doesn't want to go there though he is majorly drawn to her, he has no plans on crossing that line, until things start coming out. Grady is paying enough attention that he sees the cracks in Blake's mask that she is putting on for everyone else. She is feeling a lot of pressure and fear of failure and making some bad choices and getting herself into trouble. She is reaching out Grady to rescue her and he continually shows up and sees what is going on. I loved that Blake felt safe enough with Grady that she lets that mask down for him and lets herself be vulnerable with him and not only letting him see it but also talking to him about it. She is living at football frat as well so they definitely are around each other a lot which makes not crossing that line difficult as the feelings grow and they really get to know each other. I loved seeing them support each other as they built a friendship and relationship before finally crossing that line on a hiking/camping trip. Grady has been dealing with his heartbreak as his girlfriend he thought and was serious about broke up with him and he is trying to find his way forward and healing from it. I loved how genuine these two came across and their connection, it made reading and engaging with the story and characters very easy! This can be read as a standalone but it's great to see previous characters from the series again and where they are at as the football house is very close. I can't wait for the next one!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
September 29, 2025
Whew, I knew this was going to be a good one, and this book knocked my socks off. Blake Wilson is the younger sister of Grady Newman’s best friend, and she is staying at the Nolan U Football Frat to help out her brother after he was injured. What her brother doesn’t know, but Grady will soon find out, is that Blake isn’t the sweet, seemingly innocent young woman she pretends to be.
Wow, these characters blew me away! Blake, when it comes right down to it, is very unhappy with the direction her life is going in, so when she goes off to college, she experiences a freedom she has never before known. This gets her into trouble that she has no idea how to get herself out of, and because of her family’s expectations she doesn't think she can turn to them, so she gets into even more trouble. Grady is the studious planner, and he has everything planned out so he knows exactly where his life is going. He is the dependable one, so when he unwittingly helps Blake out a jam, he is the one Blake will call to bail her out of the latest trouble she finds herself in. I loved these characters and how their relationship develops. The are very realistic and engaging characters and I was glued to the pages of the book. This book is emotional and steamy with some unexpected twists in to plot and a happily ever after that kept me engrossed until the last page. I highly recommend this wonderfully written college sports romance to anyone.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.
Wow, these characters blew me away! Blake, when it comes right down to it, is very unhappy with the direction her life is going in, so when she goes off to college, she experiences a freedom she has never before known. This gets her into trouble that she has no idea how to get herself out of, and because of her family’s expectations she doesn't think she can turn to them, so she gets into even more trouble. Grady is the studious planner, and he has everything planned out so he knows exactly where his life is going. He is the dependable one, so when he unwittingly helps Blake out a jam, he is the one Blake will call to bail her out of the latest trouble she finds herself in. I loved these characters and how their relationship develops. The are very realistic and engaging characters and I was glued to the pages of the book. This book is emotional and steamy with some unexpected twists in to plot and a happily ever after that kept me engrossed until the last page. I highly recommend this wonderfully written college sports romance to anyone.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.
January 18, 2026
🐻🐝🏈 The Illicit Play 🏈🐝🐻 jumps right out of the third book and straight into Grady’s story. Make sure you read the first three in the series to get everyone’s backstories!
I’m so glad this book picked the series back up after the downfall (my opinion 😬) of the last one.
Grady & Blake were PERFECT 🖤 and saved each other from the inevitable self-sabotage they were both bound and determined to pull off.
This book had me clutching my pearls one minute and kicking my feet the next. The forbidden energy is top-tier, the spice is SPICING 🌶️🌶️🌶️, and the characters? Flawed, messy, and dangerously addictive. I loved watching the lines blur, the control snap, and the slow descent into “screw it, I want you” territory 😮💨
And can we talk about the emotional undertones sneaking in like 👀?? Because excuse me, I did NOT sign up to feel things while being this turned on. Rude.
If you like your romances dark-leaning, morally gray, tension-so-thick-you-could-cut-it, and just a little bit wrong in the best way? Congratulations, this book is your new personality 😌🖤
✨ Final verdict: OBSESSED.
✨ Read it for the spice. Stay for the chaos.
✨ Would I recommend? Immediately. Without hesitation.
#IllicitPlay #KatyArcher #BookstagramReads #SpicyRomance #ForbiddenRomance #MorallyGray #BookTokMadeMeReadIt #ReadAtYourOwnRisk 😈📖🔥
I’m so glad this book picked the series back up after the downfall (my opinion 😬) of the last one.
Grady & Blake were PERFECT 🖤 and saved each other from the inevitable self-sabotage they were both bound and determined to pull off.
This book had me clutching my pearls one minute and kicking my feet the next. The forbidden energy is top-tier, the spice is SPICING 🌶️🌶️🌶️, and the characters? Flawed, messy, and dangerously addictive. I loved watching the lines blur, the control snap, and the slow descent into “screw it, I want you” territory 😮💨
And can we talk about the emotional undertones sneaking in like 👀?? Because excuse me, I did NOT sign up to feel things while being this turned on. Rude.
If you like your romances dark-leaning, morally gray, tension-so-thick-you-could-cut-it, and just a little bit wrong in the best way? Congratulations, this book is your new personality 😌🖤
✨ Final verdict: OBSESSED.
✨ Read it for the spice. Stay for the chaos.
✨ Would I recommend? Immediately. Without hesitation.
#IllicitPlay #KatyArcher #BookstagramReads #SpicyRomance #ForbiddenRomance #MorallyGray #BookTokMadeMeReadIt #ReadAtYourOwnRisk 😈📖🔥
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews