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Don't Read the Last Page
Odette Reign
has made a career out of crafting love stories that melt hearts and top bestseller lists. As a celebrated author and indie game creator, she’s built entire worlds where everyone gets their happily ever after. Well, everyone except herself. She’s fresh out of romantic inspiration for her next novel, and much to her dismay, her publisher suggests that Odette find that inspiration in the form of her own dating life.
Cash “Ryker”, the internet’s most elusive gaming legend, has admired Odette's work from afar for over five years. Her games have been his safe place in a world that doesn’t know his name. But with the upcoming Gamer Awards set to honor Odette in person, anonymity isn’t an option anymore. This was his chance to finally act on the feelings he had for her.
As sparks fly, Odette’s ex resurfaces, stirring up the old wounds and casting new doubts. Between her past and the mysterious gamer, who’s suddenly very real, Odette and Ryker find themselves caught in a love story that even she couldn’t have written.
Cash “Ryker”, the internet’s most elusive gaming legend, has admired Odette's work from afar for over five years. Her games have been his safe place in a world that doesn’t know his name. But with the upcoming Gamer Awards set to honor Odette in person, anonymity isn’t an option anymore. This was his chance to finally act on the feelings he had for her.
As sparks fly, Odette’s ex resurfaces, stirring up the old wounds and casting new doubts. Between her past and the mysterious gamer, who’s suddenly very real, Odette and Ryker find themselves caught in a love story that even she couldn’t have written.
- GenresRomance
264 pages, Paperback
Published December 16, 2025
10 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 21, 2025
I enjoyed the witty and sassy banter! The development of their relationship was perfectly paced. This is such a satisfying novel that is worth the read.
December 18, 2025
Don't Read the Last Page was SUCH a good time for me!!! It's a cute romance about a game developer/author and a streamer. It's very character-driven with a lot of emotional healing and found family vibes!
This book felt like it was written specifically for people who love gaming and books and as someone who is both a very active Twitch stream consumer, gamer and reader...this was made for ME. A game developer/author and streamer as the main characters!? Dream life. I loved how naturally those elements were woven into the story and how much heart there was behind them!
I'm also a big fan of insta-love and this one absolutely worked for me. I know slow burn has its place (and I enjoy that too!!!) but sometimes instant love just hits exactly right and then you get to bask in the lovey, cozy, smile inducing moments for the rest of the book! And this book had me smiling a LOT! The scenes between Odette and Ryker were genuinely adorable and I loved how easily they were able to be themselves around each other.
Odette's past relationship really stood out to me and felt painfully relatable. That feeling of losing yourself because everything revolves around making someone else happy was handled in a way that felt honest and emotionally grounded. Watching her work through that, regain her confidence, and grow into herself again made my heart so happy. I was rooting for her the entire time!
I also loved the friendships in this book! Both Odette and Ryker have REAL best friends. The kind who truly care, show up, and support them! And that added so much warmth to the story. The found family vibes here were top tier!
The writing style was super easy to get through and very bingeable! This is absolutely the kind of book you could devour in one sitting. The pacing felt steady at first and then really picked up in the second half in a way that made me want to keep going!!!
Also...not really review-related...but the title "Don't Read the Last Page" sounds so ominous that I fully expected there to be some type of thriller aspect going on here and I kind of love that contrast with how sweet this book actually is.
This book was cute, comforting, and genuinely enjoyable. I loved the romance, the representation, the gaming and bookish elements, and the emotional growth. I already wish there was more so I could stay in this world a little longer (and see Ryker's mom and Odette meet for the first time!!!).
Highly recommend if you're looking for a cozy, insta-love romance that's easy to fall into and hard not to smile through!!!
*Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC! All opinions are my own!*
This book felt like it was written specifically for people who love gaming and books and as someone who is both a very active Twitch stream consumer, gamer and reader...this was made for ME. A game developer/author and streamer as the main characters!? Dream life. I loved how naturally those elements were woven into the story and how much heart there was behind them!
I'm also a big fan of insta-love and this one absolutely worked for me. I know slow burn has its place (and I enjoy that too!!!) but sometimes instant love just hits exactly right and then you get to bask in the lovey, cozy, smile inducing moments for the rest of the book! And this book had me smiling a LOT! The scenes between Odette and Ryker were genuinely adorable and I loved how easily they were able to be themselves around each other.
Odette's past relationship really stood out to me and felt painfully relatable. That feeling of losing yourself because everything revolves around making someone else happy was handled in a way that felt honest and emotionally grounded. Watching her work through that, regain her confidence, and grow into herself again made my heart so happy. I was rooting for her the entire time!
I also loved the friendships in this book! Both Odette and Ryker have REAL best friends. The kind who truly care, show up, and support them! And that added so much warmth to the story. The found family vibes here were top tier!
The writing style was super easy to get through and very bingeable! This is absolutely the kind of book you could devour in one sitting. The pacing felt steady at first and then really picked up in the second half in a way that made me want to keep going!!!
Also...not really review-related...but the title "Don't Read the Last Page" sounds so ominous that I fully expected there to be some type of thriller aspect going on here and I kind of love that contrast with how sweet this book actually is.
This book was cute, comforting, and genuinely enjoyable. I loved the romance, the representation, the gaming and bookish elements, and the emotional growth. I already wish there was more so I could stay in this world a little longer (and see Ryker's mom and Odette meet for the first time!!!).
Highly recommend if you're looking for a cozy, insta-love romance that's easy to fall into and hard not to smile through!!!
*Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC! All opinions are my own!*
December 4, 2025
ARC review - Before reading this book I would absolutely look at the trigger warnings. That being said this book hit me emotionally in the best way possible. I could not put it down, Odette and Ryker are easily two of the easiest characters to love in a story together. Ryker is the definition of a golden retriever, and Odette is so strong. Odette does have her weaknesses, but a would anyone else facing the same traumas. Ryker and Odette have the best friends possible and I would love for them to have their own story in the future as well!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf-nrn
December 16, 2025so
unfortunately sometimes a book just doesn't click with me and that's totally okay!
this is sadly a DNF
not because it's bad because I actually thought it was very cute and very fun and I loved the concept of it! I also adored the characters. Ryker was sunshine on a silver platter and I ADORED him. And his relationship with Bennet was ICONIC!
I also really enjoyed how Odette's anxiety and panic were written. It felt real. Not just there for the sake of angst. Her little mannerisms and movements made you be able to tell that she was a very anxious human and I really appreciated how well done that was.
I don't feel right giving a full review for a book I didn't finish so as always I highly recommend you read it for yourself and form your own opinion but I KNOW someone would love this. unfortunately it's just not for me, personally. 🩷
unfortunately sometimes a book just doesn't click with me and that's totally okay!
this is sadly a DNF
not because it's bad because I actually thought it was very cute and very fun and I loved the concept of it! I also adored the characters. Ryker was sunshine on a silver platter and I ADORED him. And his relationship with Bennet was ICONIC!
I also really enjoyed how Odette's anxiety and panic were written. It felt real. Not just there for the sake of angst. Her little mannerisms and movements made you be able to tell that she was a very anxious human and I really appreciated how well done that was.
I don't feel right giving a full review for a book I didn't finish so as always I highly recommend you read it for yourself and form your own opinion but I KNOW someone would love this. unfortunately it's just not for me, personally. 🩷
December 19, 2025
✨️✨️ARC Review✨️✨️
This book is a sweet, cozy romance with a gentle emotional core. The story leans into charm more than intensity however when it does brush against heavier topics, they’re handled thoughtfully and with care.
Odette, a bestselling romance author and indie game creator, is creative, guarded, and quietly vulnerable and the angle of a romance writer struggling to find love in her own life is an enjoyable hook.
The dynamic between Odette and Cash “Ryker” has a soft, comforting quality, especially for readers who enjoy gaming culture woven into romance. Ryker’s long-distance admiration and the transition from anonymity to reality is heartfelt, though at times it feels a little too smooth, making the emotional payoff slightly muted.
The reappearance of Odette’s ex adds some drama and tension, but it doesn’t fully dig as deep as it could, leaving parts of the conflict feeling predictable.
Overall, it’s a charming story that delivers a heartfelt message about opening yourself up and being brave enough to take chances when you're given them.
It may not leave a lasting emotional punch but it’s a greay story for readers looking for a gentle romance with a bit of drama and a happy-hearted tone.
This book is a sweet, cozy romance with a gentle emotional core. The story leans into charm more than intensity however when it does brush against heavier topics, they’re handled thoughtfully and with care.
Odette, a bestselling romance author and indie game creator, is creative, guarded, and quietly vulnerable and the angle of a romance writer struggling to find love in her own life is an enjoyable hook.
The dynamic between Odette and Cash “Ryker” has a soft, comforting quality, especially for readers who enjoy gaming culture woven into romance. Ryker’s long-distance admiration and the transition from anonymity to reality is heartfelt, though at times it feels a little too smooth, making the emotional payoff slightly muted.
The reappearance of Odette’s ex adds some drama and tension, but it doesn’t fully dig as deep as it could, leaving parts of the conflict feeling predictable.
Overall, it’s a charming story that delivers a heartfelt message about opening yourself up and being brave enough to take chances when you're given them.
It may not leave a lasting emotional punch but it’s a greay story for readers looking for a gentle romance with a bit of drama and a happy-hearted tone.
December 20, 2025
Heartwarming read 🥺
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
If you love a heartwarming read this is the ones for you. Odette is a Best-Selling Author/Gamer Writer and Ryker is a Anonymous gamer who's been obsessed with her since she wrote her first game.
This is a small town, Insta-Love with a FMC who has emotional scars and an ex you'd probably like to Sparta kick out of existence.
I am a big 'Judge a book by its cover' type of person so when I saw this ARC read I felt the need to sign up for it.
This book was a fast paced but felt slower than it really was. I loved the overall security that Ryker brought to Odette but I kind of liked that Odette didn't depend on him to fight her battles. Jemma is that bxtch 😮💨.
FAVORITE QUOTE:
"I'll be all the inspiration you'll ever need." I meant it, too. She was everything I had hoped for and more. I wanted more time with her.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
If you love a heartwarming read this is the ones for you. Odette is a Best-Selling Author/Gamer Writer and Ryker is a Anonymous gamer who's been obsessed with her since she wrote her first game.
This is a small town, Insta-Love with a FMC who has emotional scars and an ex you'd probably like to Sparta kick out of existence.
I am a big 'Judge a book by its cover' type of person so when I saw this ARC read I felt the need to sign up for it.
This book was a fast paced but felt slower than it really was. I loved the overall security that Ryker brought to Odette but I kind of liked that Odette didn't depend on him to fight her battles. Jemma is that bxtch 😮💨.
FAVORITE QUOTE:
"I'll be all the inspiration you'll ever need." I meant it, too. She was everything I had hoped for and more. I wanted more time with her.
December 20, 2025
This book is a sweet romance that brings together writing and gaming. It follows Odette, a successful author and game creator who really needs some inspiration for her next book. She meets Ryker, a famous but mysterious internet gamer who has been a fan of her work for a long time. Their connection is very fast, and they soon find themselves falling for each other in a way that neither expected.
The story does a great job of showing what it is like to live with anxiety. Ryker is a very supportive and thoughful. Their relationship is built on mutual trust, and it is heartwarming to see how they help each other through their personal struggles.
Their best friends Jemma and Beckett, add a lot of charm and some humor to the story. The "found family" theme makes the book feel warm and uplifting. While there is some drama involving an ex-boyfriend and a few misunderstandings, the focus stays on the deep bond between Odette and Ryker.
It is a light and enjoyable read.
The story does a great job of showing what it is like to live with anxiety. Ryker is a very supportive and thoughful. Their relationship is built on mutual trust, and it is heartwarming to see how they help each other through their personal struggles.
Their best friends Jemma and Beckett, add a lot of charm and some humor to the story. The "found family" theme makes the book feel warm and uplifting. While there is some drama involving an ex-boyfriend and a few misunderstandings, the focus stays on the deep bond between Odette and Ryker.
It is a light and enjoyable read.
December 18, 2025
This story was such a sweet, heartwarming surprise. Don’t Read the Last Page is a charming romance about self-discovery, vulnerability, and the quiet magic that happens when you let someone truly see you.
It really captures the courage it takes to let your guard down and allow someone into the parts of you that you usually keep hidden. It’s a reminder that love isn’t about being perfect, but about being seen and choosing to be brave anyway. Both Odette and Ryker are extremely relatable and I just adored both of them.
If you love:
💗 cute, feel-good romance
💝 emotional growth and self-discovery
💗stories about vulnerability and genuine connection
✨ This one will leave you smiling, swooning, and believing in love just a little more. A truly lovely read. 💕📚
It really captures the courage it takes to let your guard down and allow someone into the parts of you that you usually keep hidden. It’s a reminder that love isn’t about being perfect, but about being seen and choosing to be brave anyway. Both Odette and Ryker are extremely relatable and I just adored both of them.
If you love:
💗 cute, feel-good romance
💝 emotional growth and self-discovery
💗stories about vulnerability and genuine connection
✨ This one will leave you smiling, swooning, and believing in love just a little more. A truly lovely read. 💕📚
December 18, 2025
What do you get when you take two shy 🤭 and anxious people together? Total cuteness 😍
Odette is a author and creates the stories for video games. After a bad relationship ends she is ready to try dating again.
Ryker is a gamer who has been obsessed with Odette's work for ages. Noone knows who he us on live stream because he wears a mask.
These two meet at a event in Odettes honor. Now they can't get enough of each other. They both have to decide if Odette can overcome her insecurities and let Ryker in all the way and if Ryker can reveal who he is to everyone in the world.
#DontReadTheLastPage #JordanBates #Instalove #gamerromance
Odette is a author and creates the stories for video games. After a bad relationship ends she is ready to try dating again.
Ryker is a gamer who has been obsessed with Odette's work for ages. Noone knows who he us on live stream because he wears a mask.
These two meet at a event in Odettes honor. Now they can't get enough of each other. They both have to decide if Odette can overcome her insecurities and let Ryker in all the way and if Ryker can reveal who he is to everyone in the world.
#DontReadTheLastPage #JordanBates #Instalove #gamerromance
December 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Don't Read the Last Page by Jordan Bates
This is a super cute instant-love story about Odette and Ryker. The kicker is that they both have secret identities! Odette is a witch, a video game creator, and an author. Ryker is a gamer/streamer who keeps his identity a secret due to his famous family. He has also been harboring a massive crush on her for years. 😊 Odette has a horrible ex who caused her some major trauma. It was very sweet to see her connect with Ryker and learn that she could trust again and for them to become better together than they thought possible. Their best friends need their own story, too. I want to know about their past!
I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Jordan Bates, and The Author Agency for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️
Don't Read the Last Page by Jordan Bates
This is a super cute instant-love story about Odette and Ryker. The kicker is that they both have secret identities! Odette is a witch, a video game creator, and an author. Ryker is a gamer/streamer who keeps his identity a secret due to his famous family. He has also been harboring a massive crush on her for years. 😊 Odette has a horrible ex who caused her some major trauma. It was very sweet to see her connect with Ryker and learn that she could trust again and for them to become better together than they thought possible. Their best friends need their own story, too. I want to know about their past!
I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Jordan Bates, and The Author Agency for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️
December 20, 2025
Don’t Read the Last Page by Jordan Bates
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was super cute! An author and also famous game creator meets her number one fan, supporter, and masked streamer. Ryker and Odette were so cute together, I loved watching their relationship grow. Bates did a great job depicting the panic and anxiety both characters experiences throughout the book, and also wrote excellent characters with some pretty great romance (and spice🌶️) included!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was super cute! An author and also famous game creator meets her number one fan, supporter, and masked streamer. Ryker and Odette were so cute together, I loved watching their relationship grow. Bates did a great job depicting the panic and anxiety both characters experiences throughout the book, and also wrote excellent characters with some pretty great romance (and spice🌶️) included!
December 18, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book and being a gamer girl and a love for reading I knew this book was going to be great! I loved the anxiety rep as I sometimes get anxiety about little things to. I really liked how the main characters met and how being open with one another was the number one thing they needed for healing and trust. If your looking for a cutesy some spice mixed In gamer/ romance book writer you will love this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2025
Ryker and Odette
I have never felt more seen while reading a book.
Jordan Bates is a new to me author that has touched on so many real life issues that women and men face daily.
Anxiety and panic attacks.
I appreciated that it was both the female and male MC’s that suffered from anxiety.
The love that they find is just beautiful.
Please read this book so that you too can see the struggles that are faced and how they overcome them.
One of my favorite books of this year.
I have never felt more seen while reading a book.
Jordan Bates is a new to me author that has touched on so many real life issues that women and men face daily.
Anxiety and panic attacks.
I appreciated that it was both the female and male MC’s that suffered from anxiety.
The love that they find is just beautiful.
Please read this book so that you too can see the struggles that are faced and how they overcome them.
One of my favorite books of this year.
December 16, 2025
Two wounded souls meet each other and learn that love doesn't have to go as planned. Sometimes you have to take things one day at a time, even if you have no idea where that will ultimately lead you. Our MCs are both struggling with their identity in some way, and once they start confiding in each other, they realize that not everything has to be a secret and that it's okay to count on their closest friends.
December 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I struggled a bit with this one. I think it was the timeline and including instalove despite the FMC recovering from abuse from an ex. It was super cute relationship between FMC and MMC but just seemed a bit unrealistic for me.
I struggled a bit with this one. I think it was the timeline and including instalove despite the FMC recovering from abuse from an ex. It was super cute relationship between FMC and MMC but just seemed a bit unrealistic for me.
December 16, 2025
I struggled to get caught up in the storyline and engaged with the characters. From reading the author’s acknowledgements I feel this was a very personal storyline for her and I commend her for putting it out in the world; however, this just wasn’t a book that fit well with me.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
December 13, 2025
This book pulled me in fast and refused to let go. From the very first chapters, there’s a constant sense of tension and curiosity that makes it impossible to put down. Every time I thought I knew where the story was headed, it twisted just enough to keep me guessing.
Jordan Bates does an amazing job building suspense while layering in emotion, making the characters feel real, flawed, and deeply human. The pacing is sharp, the atmosphere is unsettling in the best way, and the mystery unfolds in a way that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
Jordan Bates does an amazing job building suspense while layering in emotion, making the characters feel real, flawed, and deeply human. The pacing is sharp, the atmosphere is unsettling in the best way, and the mystery unfolds in a way that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
December 7, 2025
Rating 3.5/5⭐
Spice 3.5/5 🌶️
✨ Insta-Love
✨ Found family
✨ Depiction of anxiety disorder + panick attack
✨ Depiction of a psychologically abusive relationship
Reading this book felt like being wrapped in a fluffy blanket with a cup of coffee and my cat on my lap on a rainy day; comfortable, peaceful, lovely. As someone with an anxiety disorder, I felt very validated reading this book and could relate to Odette a lot.
I loved that Odette could live out everyone's dream: living next to your best friend. Though I thought the MMC also living next to his best friends was a bit too much 🙈 Strong and healthy friendships in books are always something I enjoy a lot in a story and this one was full of friendship love 💕
Ryker's and Odettes's dates were so well described that I felt like I was truly there and wished I got to love these activities with my partner.
This book is for you if you want a cozy love story in a gaming environment where you don't have to read the last page to know all will be well ✨
Spice 3.5/5 🌶️
✨ Insta-Love
✨ Found family
✨ Depiction of anxiety disorder + panick attack
✨ Depiction of a psychologically abusive relationship
Reading this book felt like being wrapped in a fluffy blanket with a cup of coffee and my cat on my lap on a rainy day; comfortable, peaceful, lovely. As someone with an anxiety disorder, I felt very validated reading this book and could relate to Odette a lot.
I loved that Odette could live out everyone's dream: living next to your best friend. Though I thought the MMC also living next to his best friends was a bit too much 🙈 Strong and healthy friendships in books are always something I enjoy a lot in a story and this one was full of friendship love 💕
Ryker's and Odettes's dates were so well described that I felt like I was truly there and wished I got to love these activities with my partner.
This book is for you if you want a cozy love story in a gaming environment where you don't have to read the last page to know all will be well ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
aww, I think I love a sweet gamer boy.
Odette is a writer who has lost her inspiration and can't seem to get past a first date, and Ryker is the mysterious masked gamer who has obsessed over her from afar.
This story was filled with love and cute cozy moments, as Odette and Ryker find the inner strength to grow and bloom in confidence. The anxiety representation was well written, feeling genuine and respectful.
A fast and fun read, it was hard to put down and felt like a warm hug.
I was lucky to receive an ARC of this story, and my opinions of this book are my own.
Odette is a writer who has lost her inspiration and can't seem to get past a first date, and Ryker is the mysterious masked gamer who has obsessed over her from afar.
This story was filled with love and cute cozy moments, as Odette and Ryker find the inner strength to grow and bloom in confidence. The anxiety representation was well written, feeling genuine and respectful.
A fast and fun read, it was hard to put down and felt like a warm hug.
I was lucky to receive an ARC of this story, and my opinions of this book are my own.
December 16, 2025
Don’t Read the Last Page is adorable, heartfelt, and impossibly easy to fall in love with. Ryker is so gone for Odette from the very beginning, and their first interaction had me instantly aching for more. Jordan Bates absolutely nails their insta-love chemistry, it's believable, warm, and so well crafted.
The anxiety representation is another standout. It feels authentic, gentle, and respectfully written, adding so much depth to Odette’s character. And Ryker? Bold, direct, and wonderfully sincere. He doesn’t play games. Even though he's normally more subdue, he tells her he wants her, and he means it. I was so giddy about their dynamic, it's impossible not to root for them.
I also loved Jemma and Beckett! This book is cute, cozy, and beautifully written. I’d absolutely recommend it.
Thank you to The Author Agency and Jordan Bates for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The anxiety representation is another standout. It feels authentic, gentle, and respectfully written, adding so much depth to Odette’s character. And Ryker? Bold, direct, and wonderfully sincere. He doesn’t play games. Even though he's normally more subdue, he tells her he wants her, and he means it. I was so giddy about their dynamic, it's impossible not to root for them.
I also loved Jemma and Beckett! This book is cute, cozy, and beautifully written. I’d absolutely recommend it.
Thank you to The Author Agency and Jordan Bates for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
December 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Favorite quote:
“Fu**ing coriander”
Don’t Read the Last Page by Jordan Bates was an overall enjoyable read, but it didn’t quite stick the landing for me. I liked the characters and the journey, but the ending felt a little underwhelming. The final conflict revolves around a misunderstanding tied to the FMC’s past, and the resolution wraps up so quickly that it didn’t give me the depth or emotional punch I was hoping for.
Still, the story had good moments and kept me engaged, it just needed a stronger finish for me to fully love it.
🌶️
Favorite quote:
“Fu**ing coriander”
Don’t Read the Last Page by Jordan Bates was an overall enjoyable read, but it didn’t quite stick the landing for me. I liked the characters and the journey, but the ending felt a little underwhelming. The final conflict revolves around a misunderstanding tied to the FMC’s past, and the resolution wraps up so quickly that it didn’t give me the depth or emotional punch I was hoping for.
Still, the story had good moments and kept me engaged, it just needed a stronger finish for me to fully love it.
December 13, 2025
Cute gamer boy and writer girl. She has past problems with a horrid relationship, and he's super shy so he says. I mean unless he's with her!
Also Parker deserved worse.
Also Parker deserved worse.
December 5, 2025
Firstly, thank you so much Jordan, for sharing Odette and Ryker with me. I can’t even begin to tell you how much of an impact their story has on me as I saw myself within them.
This book is an absolute must read as it perfectly collides two of my favorite worlds~ books and gaming. This story revolves around Odette and Ryker and their journey to not only finding love, but also finding peace within their lives. My heart ached so much for O, learning new things about her, but through strength and Jemma by her side, she is one of the strongest gals to overcome trials and continue to persevere.
The banter between friends, the yearning that this man has for the FMC, the protectiveness, the vulnerability… everything about it was perfect. Easy to follow. Extremely likable characters and overall just the best found family.
🥹🩷
This book is an absolute must read as it perfectly collides two of my favorite worlds~ books and gaming. This story revolves around Odette and Ryker and their journey to not only finding love, but also finding peace within their lives. My heart ached so much for O, learning new things about her, but through strength and Jemma by her side, she is one of the strongest gals to overcome trials and continue to persevere.
The banter between friends, the yearning that this man has for the FMC, the protectiveness, the vulnerability… everything about it was perfect. Easy to follow. Extremely likable characters and overall just the best found family.
🥹🩷
December 7, 2025
This book was so different than the Ink Wells series but somehow so perfectly Jordan Bates. I loved the slight fantasy of Odettes life and all her creations. I don’t think I’ve ever read a story about a streamer and I throughly enjoyed Ryker. There was not a single thing I didn’t like about this book. I wish it was longer or that there were more than one book, I’d love for this to become a series!!!
December 6, 2025
Love this couple! They are so sweet together. Love that they communicate and share themselves and there isn't drama about it. More like reading about real people and not fiction
December 17, 2025
Amazon
When writer/game writer Odette meets gamer/streamer Ryker, it's insta-love for these two people with some damage to their psyches.
Before I start my review, I have to say that I'm not a gamer nor am I into the whole streaming culture, so a lot of this story is out of my wheelhouse, and sort of hard for me to connect with. That being said, it's still a cute, sweet story and I like Ryker and Odette, especially Ryker. He's been obsessed with her for years, but actually being with her face to face is a whole new dimension for him, and his feelings only expand from there. Odette's anxiety was hard to read at times, but relatable in a lot of ways, for probably a lot of people. Not only are Ryker and Odette super cute, but their two best friends, Jemma and Beckett are too. I'm hoping their story is next *hint hint*.
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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December 22, 2025
Odette Reign has made a career out of crafting love stories that melt hearts and top bestseller lists. As a celebrated author and indie game creator, she’s built entire worlds where everyone gets their happily ever after. Well, everyone except herself. She’s fresh out of romantic inspiration for her next novel, and much to her dismay, her publisher suggests that Odette find that inspiration in the form of her own dating life.
Cash “Ryker”, the internet’s most elusive gaming legend, has admired Odette's work from afar for over five years. Her games have been his safe place in a world that doesn’t know his name. But with the upcoming Gamer Awards set to honor Odette in person, anonymity isn’t an option anymore. This was his chance to finally act on the feelings he had for her.
As sparks fly, Odette’s ex resurfaces, stirring up the old wounds and casting new doubts. Between her past and the mysterious gamer, who’s suddenly very real, Odette and Ryker find themselves caught in a love story that even she couldn’t have written.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Insta-Love, Found Family, Mental Health Rep, Spice, Writer FMC, Indie Game Creator FMC, HEA, Out of Romantic Inspiration, Gamer MMC, Gamer Awards, Loss of Anonymity, Resurfaced Ex, Stir up old Wounds, Casting New Doubts, Mysterious Gamer.
Don’t Read the Last Page by Jordan Bates.
There were two reasons this book called to me. First because I love to game and I dream of writing a book, if I only had the focus. The other, my husband is also a gamer and while he may not stream his gaming sessions, he loves to game and that’s all that matters. And let me say I am so happy that I picked up this book, it was just stunning and I greatly enjoyed it.
Getting to watch Ryker and Odette navigate their way through their feelings was so much fun and I just loved it. I could understand why they were both so nervous, and they had very real reasons to be nervous, and then getting to watch as everything slowly unfold that forces Ryker and Odette to face their insecurities intimately and face-to-face. They have this amazing chemistry between them and it builds naturally through the story and I just loved watching them grow together and it was so incredibly satisfying to see everything come together beautifully.
I loved Ryker’s friendship with Beckett; I honestly think that it was one of the highlights of the entire story. And Beckett’s commentary is absolutely perfect and is absolute gold. Of course, where Ryker has Beckett, Odette has Jemma. And I swear Jemma is the best friend that any woman could ever hope to have, she’s loyal, encouraging, and she’s always got Odette’s back no matter what. And the chemistry, attraction and sparks between Beckett and Jemma just added an entire extra layer of charm, entertainment, and possible relationship to the book and you can’t help but hope that they get their own HEA in the end.
I can’t tell you how wonderful this book it. It has the perfect amount of spice knitted in. And I appreciated how Jordan added in the representation of mental health through anxiety and how perfectly honest it was portrayed. We are reminded how life isn’t perfect, and having the chance to see how a character is working through something that heavy rather than managing to just magically overcoming all the hard stuff, it helped to make this book feel all that much more real and meaningful.
I really can’t tell you how special Jemma and Beckett are and how much I fell in love with them. And I am sure that after you read this book, you’ll agree with me that this is a cute, cozy book that it just elegantly and entrancingly written.
Cash “Ryker”, the internet’s most elusive gaming legend, has admired Odette's work from afar for over five years. Her games have been his safe place in a world that doesn’t know his name. But with the upcoming Gamer Awards set to honor Odette in person, anonymity isn’t an option anymore. This was his chance to finally act on the feelings he had for her.
As sparks fly, Odette’s ex resurfaces, stirring up the old wounds and casting new doubts. Between her past and the mysterious gamer, who’s suddenly very real, Odette and Ryker find themselves caught in a love story that even she couldn’t have written.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Insta-Love, Found Family, Mental Health Rep, Spice, Writer FMC, Indie Game Creator FMC, HEA, Out of Romantic Inspiration, Gamer MMC, Gamer Awards, Loss of Anonymity, Resurfaced Ex, Stir up old Wounds, Casting New Doubts, Mysterious Gamer.
Don’t Read the Last Page by Jordan Bates.
There were two reasons this book called to me. First because I love to game and I dream of writing a book, if I only had the focus. The other, my husband is also a gamer and while he may not stream his gaming sessions, he loves to game and that’s all that matters. And let me say I am so happy that I picked up this book, it was just stunning and I greatly enjoyed it.
Getting to watch Ryker and Odette navigate their way through their feelings was so much fun and I just loved it. I could understand why they were both so nervous, and they had very real reasons to be nervous, and then getting to watch as everything slowly unfold that forces Ryker and Odette to face their insecurities intimately and face-to-face. They have this amazing chemistry between them and it builds naturally through the story and I just loved watching them grow together and it was so incredibly satisfying to see everything come together beautifully.
I loved Ryker’s friendship with Beckett; I honestly think that it was one of the highlights of the entire story. And Beckett’s commentary is absolutely perfect and is absolute gold. Of course, where Ryker has Beckett, Odette has Jemma. And I swear Jemma is the best friend that any woman could ever hope to have, she’s loyal, encouraging, and she’s always got Odette’s back no matter what. And the chemistry, attraction and sparks between Beckett and Jemma just added an entire extra layer of charm, entertainment, and possible relationship to the book and you can’t help but hope that they get their own HEA in the end.
I can’t tell you how wonderful this book it. It has the perfect amount of spice knitted in. And I appreciated how Jordan added in the representation of mental health through anxiety and how perfectly honest it was portrayed. We are reminded how life isn’t perfect, and having the chance to see how a character is working through something that heavy rather than managing to just magically overcoming all the hard stuff, it helped to make this book feel all that much more real and meaningful.
I really can’t tell you how special Jemma and Beckett are and how much I fell in love with them. And I am sure that after you read this book, you’ll agree with me that this is a cute, cozy book that it just elegantly and entrancingly written.
December 20, 2025
Don't Read The Last Page follows the story of Odette, an author who creates both books and games, and Ryker, a gamer.
After a messy past relationship, Odette wasn’t sure she would ever experience true love again. Ryker, on the other hand, had admired her long before they ever truly crossed paths. From the moment he started playing her game, he developed a quiet crush on her, one he never voiced, but showed through unwavering support.
The way their story unfolded, from beginning to end, was truly beautiful. I loved every milestone of their journey, their first meeting, the unplanned link-up, their first kiss, their date, the moment Ryker revealed his true identity, and when they finally made their relationship known. Even with so many lovely scenes throughout the book, the moments where they openly claimed each other and said “I love you” stood out the most for me and were easily my favourite parts of the story. I also loved how Ryker handled her ex when he tried to cross boundaries, and how their relationship was free from unnecessary fights or drama, which made their connection feel even more genuine and refreshing.
I can't talk about these two without talking about their best friends who also helped their relationship.
Jemma was always available for Odette, calming her during every panic and anxiety, helping her to remain sane While Beckett was always there for Ryker, helping not just to hide his identity but also being a true friend.
I love that both friends also had a relationship, I wish there was a different book about them 🥹
Odette also practiced witchcraft. This is the first time I'll be reading about witchcraft in a book and it's really different from what I know.
She practiced it just for her own good.
I don't want spoilers in my review so I'll be stopping here 🥹💕
I 100% recommend this book and I can assure you that you'll enjoy reading it ❤️
After a messy past relationship, Odette wasn’t sure she would ever experience true love again. Ryker, on the other hand, had admired her long before they ever truly crossed paths. From the moment he started playing her game, he developed a quiet crush on her, one he never voiced, but showed through unwavering support.
The way their story unfolded, from beginning to end, was truly beautiful. I loved every milestone of their journey, their first meeting, the unplanned link-up, their first kiss, their date, the moment Ryker revealed his true identity, and when they finally made their relationship known. Even with so many lovely scenes throughout the book, the moments where they openly claimed each other and said “I love you” stood out the most for me and were easily my favourite parts of the story. I also loved how Ryker handled her ex when he tried to cross boundaries, and how their relationship was free from unnecessary fights or drama, which made their connection feel even more genuine and refreshing.
I can't talk about these two without talking about their best friends who also helped their relationship.
Jemma was always available for Odette, calming her during every panic and anxiety, helping her to remain sane While Beckett was always there for Ryker, helping not just to hide his identity but also being a true friend.
I love that both friends also had a relationship, I wish there was a different book about them 🥹
Odette also practiced witchcraft. This is the first time I'll be reading about witchcraft in a book and it's really different from what I know.
She practiced it just for her own good.
I don't want spoilers in my review so I'll be stopping here 🥹💕
I 100% recommend this book and I can assure you that you'll enjoy reading it ❤️
December 10, 2025
This was the most unusual romance story because it brought me into the world of gaming – something I know nothing about. The author does a great job painting that world to the extent that you feel a part of it. I admire the strong female main character, Odette, who has overcome so much heartache and a horrible previous relationship to build an amazing career and surround herself with friends who love her. Ryker is a famous gamer and streamer with a hidden identity who goes by the tag of CovertRetriever. Ryker has reasons to keep his identity hidden, and he loves and supports Odette from afar for many years. Finally, he gets the courage to meet her in person and sparks fly immediately! Odette and Ryker are truly meant for each other. Both of them have issues with crowds and anxiety – these are mentioned with great care and knowledge by the author. It’s truly heartwarming to see their passionate love story unfold with the mutual trust and support they give one another. The other part of the story I loved is how devoted each of their best friends are to them. Odette’s friendship with Jemma and Ryker’s friendship with Beckett is so inspiring! Their found family gives them strength to move forward confidently in life. I could feel the love and heart that the author put into this story and it really left me feeling hopeful and uplifted.
December 7, 2025
This book appealed to me because my husband is a gamer (not a streamer but no one’s perfect) and while I may not write books, I sure love to read them. And I’m so glad I picked this one up, because it was amazing.
I loved watching Ryker and Odette navigate their feelings. They’re both nervous for very real reasons, and everything that unfolds forces them to face those insecurities head-on. Their chemistry builds so naturally, and seeing them grow together was incredibly satisfying.
Ryker’s friendship with Beckett is one of the highlights, Beckett’s commentary is pure gold. And Odette has Jemma, who is the best friend everyone wishes they had: loyal, encouraging, and always in Odette’s corner. The sparks between Beckett and Jemma added a whole extra layer of charm and entertainment to the book.
The story itself was so good, with just the right amount of spice woven in. I also appreciated the representation of anxiety and how honestly it’s portrayed. Life isn’t perfect, and seeing a character work through something that heavy, instead of magically overcoming it, made the book feel real and meaningful. I received this as an ARC and all this reflects my honest opinion.
I hope I'll be all the inspiration you ever need.
I loved watching Ryker and Odette navigate their feelings. They’re both nervous for very real reasons, and everything that unfolds forces them to face those insecurities head-on. Their chemistry builds so naturally, and seeing them grow together was incredibly satisfying.
Ryker’s friendship with Beckett is one of the highlights, Beckett’s commentary is pure gold. And Odette has Jemma, who is the best friend everyone wishes they had: loyal, encouraging, and always in Odette’s corner. The sparks between Beckett and Jemma added a whole extra layer of charm and entertainment to the book.
The story itself was so good, with just the right amount of spice woven in. I also appreciated the representation of anxiety and how honestly it’s portrayed. Life isn’t perfect, and seeing a character work through something that heavy, instead of magically overcoming it, made the book feel real and meaningful. I received this as an ARC and all this reflects my honest opinion.
I hope I'll be all the inspiration you ever need.
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