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Oakwood Ranch #3
Playing for Keeps
Not yet published
Expected 27 Apr 26It’s all fun and games until fake starts to feel like forever…
My life revolves around two things: football, and family. Romance? Not so much. But my fans have other ideas. And they’ve turned my easy-going life into a nightmare with their campaign to find me a wife…
My childhood best friend Serena thinks it’s hilarious. She’s always wanted the big, swoony love story, but instead, she has a controlling ex she can’t shake breathing down her neck. And then the solution to both our problems hits me: a fake romance. ‘Settling down’ with Serena will get the fans off my back, and having a muscly football player on her arm should be enough to warn off her ex. Plus, we’re best friends, so what could go wrong?
Our first date is set for the city’s annual charity ball. I’m smug as I imagine how easy my life will be after tonight. Except, when my lips touch Serena’s in front of the flashing cameras, when I hear her soft sigh as I dip her lower, something like panic creeps through my chest. I’m not meant for love—letting people down runs in my genes. I can’t do that to Serena. I won’t.
As the story we’re spinning gets bigger, so do the feelings I’ve worked so hard to chase away. We want completely different things. But I can’t stop wondering: do we both want the one thing that counts—each other?
Playing for Keeps is a fun, steamy, friends-to-lovers sports romance, perfect for fans of Liz Tomforde, Stephanie Archer and Elsie Silver. The third in the Oakwood Ranch series, it can also be read as a standalone.
My life revolves around two things: football, and family. Romance? Not so much. But my fans have other ideas. And they’ve turned my easy-going life into a nightmare with their campaign to find me a wife…
My childhood best friend Serena thinks it’s hilarious. She’s always wanted the big, swoony love story, but instead, she has a controlling ex she can’t shake breathing down her neck. And then the solution to both our problems hits me: a fake romance. ‘Settling down’ with Serena will get the fans off my back, and having a muscly football player on her arm should be enough to warn off her ex. Plus, we’re best friends, so what could go wrong?
Our first date is set for the city’s annual charity ball. I’m smug as I imagine how easy my life will be after tonight. Except, when my lips touch Serena’s in front of the flashing cameras, when I hear her soft sigh as I dip her lower, something like panic creeps through my chest. I’m not meant for love—letting people down runs in my genes. I can’t do that to Serena. I won’t.
As the story we’re spinning gets bigger, so do the feelings I’ve worked so hard to chase away. We want completely different things. But I can’t stop wondering: do we both want the one thing that counts—each other?
Playing for Keeps is a fun, steamy, friends-to-lovers sports romance, perfect for fans of Liz Tomforde, Stephanie Archer and Elsie Silver. The third in the Oakwood Ranch series, it can also be read as a standalone.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 27, 2026
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April 21, 2026: ̗̀➛ Pre-read:
Ngl I requested this book purely based on vibes and curiosity!! I haven’t even read the first two in the series (but this can be read as a standalone so thats good!!). Given all that, this is in fact my first Bella North book!! When I saw the tropes list, I waskinda-very-much-so intrigued yk?? 👀 These are all amazing but I lovelovelove slow burn so im very excited to see how its done here!!
🌶️Friends to lovers
🌶️Fake dating
🌶️Sports romance
🌶️Golden retriever boyfriend
🌶️Slow burn
🌶️Workplace romance (sports star vs cheerleader coach)
🌶️Found family
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bella North & Bookouture for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. ⋆˙⟡
Ngl I requested this book purely based on vibes and curiosity!! I haven’t even read the first two in the series (but this can be read as a standalone so thats good!!). Given all that, this is in fact my first Bella North book!! When I saw the tropes list, I was
🌶️Friends to lovers
🌶️Fake dating
🌶️Sports romance
🌶️Golden retriever boyfriend
🌶️Slow burn
🌶️Workplace romance (sports star vs cheerleader coach)
🌶️Found family
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bella North & Bookouture for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. ⋆˙⟡
April 18, 2026
This was a sweet friends to lovers romance. I loved the chemistry with Chase & Serena so much. To be honest though, I hated that she ended up pregnant. The way Chase walked away from her in the most scary time ever, and then came back? I get he has shit going on but to treat his best friend that way, ruined it for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2026
Playing for Keeps hits all those familiar, comforting notes that make a childhood-friends-to-lovers story so hard to put down. There is something incredibly moving about the way Chase looks at Serena with that golden retriever devotion. It makes their transition from best friends to "fake" partners feel both inevitable and deeply sweet. My favorite part of this whole series is the found family vibes! Oakwood Ranch wraps around you like a warm blanket, and the banter is sharp enough to keep you smiling even when the romantic tension starts to ache.
That being said, the story does lean heavily into the typical sports romance playbook, which can make the emotional stakes feel a little predictable at times. While the chemistry is undeniable, the middle of the book stalls slightly as the characters dance around the obvious, leading to some avoidable miscommunication tropes that might leave you wanting a bit more depth. While it's not my favorite of the series, I would still recommend it. It is a lovely, steamy escape that captures the heart of small-town life, even if it doesn't quite deliver the gut-wrenching emotional payoff needed to make it a favorite.
That being said, the story does lean heavily into the typical sports romance playbook, which can make the emotional stakes feel a little predictable at times. While the chemistry is undeniable, the middle of the book stalls slightly as the characters dance around the obvious, leading to some avoidable miscommunication tropes that might leave you wanting a bit more depth. While it's not my favorite of the series, I would still recommend it. It is a lovely, steamy escape that captures the heart of small-town life, even if it doesn't quite deliver the gut-wrenching emotional payoff needed to make it a favorite.
April 15, 2026
3.5⭐️ Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
I enjoyed this SO much more than the first two books! The friends to lovers trope really pulled through for me (plus the fake dating).
I really liked both Chase and Serena, their friendship was great from the start, the way they showed up for each other all the time!
I enjoyed this SO much more than the first two books! The friends to lovers trope really pulled through for me (plus the fake dating).
I really liked both Chase and Serena, their friendship was great from the start, the way they showed up for each other all the time!
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I very much enjoyed this book! It’s not the typical fake dating story and that was definitely a nice surprise.
You get to see them struggle and heal and make mistakes and that felt really really real tbh.
Characters
Serena: Such a great fmc! She’s strong, independent and yearning for a certain kind of love and who can blame her? I definitely loved her and the way she understood Chase without forgetting herself or that it turns somehow toxic
Chase: My brokenhearted boy 💔 while he made mistakes and made me made here and there, he’s such a real character. I felt with him and i hoped with him and im so happy he realized what he wanted and that he deserved what he wanted
All in all they were really sweet! I loved their banter and their friendship and how it turned into so much more. While I don’t usually like certain things that happened at the end (without spoiling), I felt it was fitting for this story!
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with this arc❤️ I really appreciate it! Also thank you to the author of course. I will read more by her!!
I very much enjoyed this book! It’s not the typical fake dating story and that was definitely a nice surprise.
You get to see them struggle and heal and make mistakes and that felt really really real tbh.
Characters
Serena: Such a great fmc! She’s strong, independent and yearning for a certain kind of love and who can blame her? I definitely loved her and the way she understood Chase without forgetting herself or that it turns somehow toxic
Chase: My brokenhearted boy 💔 while he made mistakes and made me made here and there, he’s such a real character. I felt with him and i hoped with him and im so happy he realized what he wanted and that he deserved what he wanted
All in all they were really sweet! I loved their banter and their friendship and how it turned into so much more. While I don’t usually like certain things that happened at the end (without spoiling), I felt it was fitting for this story!
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with this arc❤️ I really appreciate it! Also thank you to the author of course. I will read more by her!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cute fake dating book. I enjoyed the fact that it wasn't your typical "keep the fake a secret from everyone" storyline as all their friends and family were aware of the situation. Definitely a nice, easy sports romance to read. The characters had good depth, but some internal thoughts were quite repetitive.
I knocked a star because I wanted more from the ending. I loathe a pregnancy trope done in this manner, and the ending just felt all around rushed. I jut wanted a little more on their actual relationship and instead it jumped right into the epilogue and post-birth. We didn't really see them legitimately together for very long.
***Thank you Bella North and Bookouture for this ARC. My review is voluntary and all thoughts and opinions are my own***
I knocked a star because I wanted more from the ending. I loathe a pregnancy trope done in this manner, and the ending just felt all around rushed. I jut wanted a little more on their actual relationship and instead it jumped right into the epilogue and post-birth. We didn't really see them legitimately together for very long.
***Thank you Bella North and Bookouture for this ARC. My review is voluntary and all thoughts and opinions are my own***
April 16, 2026
Playing for Keeps by Bella North
2.75 ⭐️ | 2.5 🌶️
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with this advanced listeners copy of Playing for Keeps. I devoured this within a day and I have a lot of thoughts to share but I’ll start by saying boy was I entertained.
Plot Review & Overall Story
Serena and Chase have been best friends for nearly their entire lives. Serena has been secretly in love with Chase but had no desire to lose their friendship (especially after New Years 🥲). Well, all of that changes when these two start a fake dating relationship that quickly bleeds into more.
This was a fun, quick, and easy listen. Their friendship was easy to root for and as a reader I wanted to protect Serena at all costs. Chase, on the other hand, was a mixed bag for me. One second I wanted to hold him and the next I wanted to pummel him. You go through it with these characters but I can’t say Chase did enough groveling for me. He messes up BIG (no worries no cheating) and I personally feel like Serena forgave him way too easily. I mean come on girl a DAY, that’s it 😓. He needed therapy and never got it. Am I happy with their happily ever after? Sure, but I can’t say I find it believable. 🤷🏻♀️
Audiobook Review
Friends this is DUET NARRATION!! Woohoo!
The overall production was done well and both narrator’s don’t just read the words on the page they feel them!
I want to talk about our narrators too. I am convinced CJ Bloom can narrate anything and I’d likely enjoy it. How she narrates this character feels incredibly relatable.
Sean Crisden is new to me but I will now be on the lookout for his works. His natural talking voice is very attractive and his passion could be felt in his performance. But there were certain moments when he growled that sounded very cringe 🥲 So much so I said to myself “oh noooo.” Those are far and few in between but it wasn’t my cup of tea.
Should this spill into your TBR and earbuds?
This was okay! It had a strong start and a eh ending. I wanted more from the MMC in development. However, if the story catches your attention I’d say give it a try!
2.75 ⭐️ | 2.5 🌶️
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with this advanced listeners copy of Playing for Keeps. I devoured this within a day and I have a lot of thoughts to share but I’ll start by saying boy was I entertained.
Plot Review & Overall Story
Serena and Chase have been best friends for nearly their entire lives. Serena has been secretly in love with Chase but had no desire to lose their friendship (especially after New Years 🥲). Well, all of that changes when these two start a fake dating relationship that quickly bleeds into more.
This was a fun, quick, and easy listen. Their friendship was easy to root for and as a reader I wanted to protect Serena at all costs. Chase, on the other hand, was a mixed bag for me. One second I wanted to hold him and the next I wanted to pummel him. You go through it with these characters but I can’t say Chase did enough groveling for me. He messes up BIG (no worries no cheating) and I personally feel like Serena forgave him way too easily. I mean come on girl a DAY, that’s it 😓. He needed therapy and never got it. Am I happy with their happily ever after? Sure, but I can’t say I find it believable. 🤷🏻♀️
Audiobook Review
Friends this is DUET NARRATION!! Woohoo!
The overall production was done well and both narrator’s don’t just read the words on the page they feel them!
I want to talk about our narrators too. I am convinced CJ Bloom can narrate anything and I’d likely enjoy it. How she narrates this character feels incredibly relatable.
Sean Crisden is new to me but I will now be on the lookout for his works. His natural talking voice is very attractive and his passion could be felt in his performance. But there were certain moments when he growled that sounded very cringe 🥲 So much so I said to myself “oh noooo.” Those are far and few in between but it wasn’t my cup of tea.
Should this spill into your TBR and earbuds?
This was okay! It had a strong start and a eh ending. I wanted more from the MMC in development. However, if the story catches your attention I’d say give it a try!
March 12, 2026
3.75⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is such a fun sports romance. It’s the kind of book that’s easy to settle into, with a world and characters that make the story feel warm and engaging from the start.
This book combines two of my favorite tropes—fake dating and friends-to-lovers—and I had a lot of fun with that dynamic. Serena and Chase have great chemistry, and their banter throughout the story kept me smiling. There’s a clear sense of comfort and affection between them that makes their relationship feel natural. I also really liked the side characters, who add a lot of personality.
That said, there were a few aspects where I found myself wanting a bit more depth. The book talks a lot about how close Serena and Chase were growing up and how strong their bond has always been, but we don’t get to see many of those moments directly. I think including a dual timeline or flashbacks to their earlier friendship could have strengthened the emotional impact of their relationship.
I also would have loved to spend more time inside Chase’s perspective. The story focuses more on Serena’s evolving feelings, and seeing more of Chase’s feelings would have added another layer to their romance.
There’s also a moment toward the end that didn’t quite land for me—it felt a little unnecessary within the overall storyline. Still, it didn’t take away from the fact that this was a fun read.
Overall, this was an enjoyable sports romance that I’m glad I had the chance to read early. I’m definitely interested in picking up more of Bella North’s books in the future.
This one releases 4/27/26, and I recommend picking it up!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is such a fun sports romance. It’s the kind of book that’s easy to settle into, with a world and characters that make the story feel warm and engaging from the start.
This book combines two of my favorite tropes—fake dating and friends-to-lovers—and I had a lot of fun with that dynamic. Serena and Chase have great chemistry, and their banter throughout the story kept me smiling. There’s a clear sense of comfort and affection between them that makes their relationship feel natural. I also really liked the side characters, who add a lot of personality.
That said, there were a few aspects where I found myself wanting a bit more depth. The book talks a lot about how close Serena and Chase were growing up and how strong their bond has always been, but we don’t get to see many of those moments directly. I think including a dual timeline or flashbacks to their earlier friendship could have strengthened the emotional impact of their relationship.
I also would have loved to spend more time inside Chase’s perspective. The story focuses more on Serena’s evolving feelings, and seeing more of Chase’s feelings would have added another layer to their romance.
There’s also a moment toward the end that didn’t quite land for me—it felt a little unnecessary within the overall storyline. Still, it didn’t take away from the fact that this was a fun read.
Overall, this was an enjoyable sports romance that I’m glad I had the chance to read early. I’m definitely interested in picking up more of Bella North’s books in the future.
This one releases 4/27/26, and I recommend picking it up!
February 6, 2026
Did I stay up until 6am reading this book because I physically couldn’t put it down? yes. But i’m not mad about it and i’d do it again! I said this when I read Game Changer and i’m going to say it again, Bella North can’t write a bad book.
All 3 of the Sullivan men are top tier but oh my god Chase Sullivan has stolen my heart!! Now, he definitely did make me want to grab him and shake some sense into him at points but he made up for it in the end. In previous books, you only caught a glimpse of Chase’s story, so it was really nice getting in his head, seeing him deal with so many inner battles and mourn a relationship he wished he’d had, rather than one that actually existed. His growth throughout the book was beautiful to see!
I am a sucker for friends to lovers, add fake dating into the equation, i’ll absolutely devour it and Playing for Keeps? Devoured!!!! I absolutely adored Serena, as someone who loves a random fact, she’s definitely given me some new ones to use. Chase and Serena together was extremely wholesome to see, watching years of friendship bubble into something so beautiful, i loved their story so much! I’m not going to be able to stop thinking about them, I already want to reread.
If you like a fake dating football romance, with a small town, found family feel to it then this book is definitely for you. I would suggest reading the 2 others in the series before this, both are also great books with so many amazing characters!!
In a world full of Ryans may everybody find their Chase Sullivan!
Thank you netgalley, bookouture and bella north for this arc copy!
All 3 of the Sullivan men are top tier but oh my god Chase Sullivan has stolen my heart!! Now, he definitely did make me want to grab him and shake some sense into him at points but he made up for it in the end. In previous books, you only caught a glimpse of Chase’s story, so it was really nice getting in his head, seeing him deal with so many inner battles and mourn a relationship he wished he’d had, rather than one that actually existed. His growth throughout the book was beautiful to see!
I am a sucker for friends to lovers, add fake dating into the equation, i’ll absolutely devour it and Playing for Keeps? Devoured!!!! I absolutely adored Serena, as someone who loves a random fact, she’s definitely given me some new ones to use. Chase and Serena together was extremely wholesome to see, watching years of friendship bubble into something so beautiful, i loved their story so much! I’m not going to be able to stop thinking about them, I already want to reread.
If you like a fake dating football romance, with a small town, found family feel to it then this book is definitely for you. I would suggest reading the 2 others in the series before this, both are also great books with so many amazing characters!!
In a world full of Ryans may everybody find their Chase Sullivan!
Thank you netgalley, bookouture and bella north for this arc copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.6 ⭐
I enjoyed reading the love story of Serena and Chase. Chase is such a sweet character with deep wounds and I knew it'd be a very interesting character! He was. Serena was also a good character.
📚 Both have been best friends since they met. Both have a struggle of their own and someone suggested they start fake dating as it would solve both their problems. Plus they're not looking to date just now. So they do.
Will the scheme work?
Will they allow themselves to fall for each other?
🌟 I like that Bella North takes the time to have interesting and emotionally layered characters. I also like that it's not cliché and instead brings good intentions into the stories, some new things. Like how a character would raise children encouraging self worth that is self centered and not dépendant on the presence or validation of others.
🥰 When I read the previous book in this series I wanted to read the story of Serena and Chase. I was pleasantly surprised to find the ARC available for request not long after!
Now I just need to read the first book as I don't know the story of Harper & Jake!
🌟 Tropes: fake dating, best friends to lover.
And others but they would spoil some things! But sometimes we want to know so I'll put them bellow. Read at you own risk 😉
😶🌫️ TW: light stalking (not between the MC), grief and loss of a parent.
🌶️ Open door sexual scenes
🚨 Additional tropes but this is spoiler adjacent!
Grief. Third act break up. Accidental pregnancy.
🖋️ I was provided the ARC of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading the love story of Serena and Chase. Chase is such a sweet character with deep wounds and I knew it'd be a very interesting character! He was. Serena was also a good character.
📚 Both have been best friends since they met. Both have a struggle of their own and someone suggested they start fake dating as it would solve both their problems. Plus they're not looking to date just now. So they do.
Will the scheme work?
Will they allow themselves to fall for each other?
🌟 I like that Bella North takes the time to have interesting and emotionally layered characters. I also like that it's not cliché and instead brings good intentions into the stories, some new things. Like how a character would raise children encouraging self worth that is self centered and not dépendant on the presence or validation of others.
🥰 When I read the previous book in this series I wanted to read the story of Serena and Chase. I was pleasantly surprised to find the ARC available for request not long after!
Now I just need to read the first book as I don't know the story of Harper & Jake!
🌟 Tropes: fake dating, best friends to lover.
And others but they would spoil some things! But sometimes we want to know so I'll put them bellow. Read at you own risk 😉
😶🌫️ TW: light stalking (not between the MC), grief and loss of a parent.
🌶️ Open door sexual scenes
🚨 Additional tropes but this is spoiler adjacent!
Grief. Third act break up. Accidental pregnancy.
🖋️ I was provided the ARC of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the Audio ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Playing for Keeps by Bella North (Book 3 in the Oakwood Ranch series) completely stole my heart! This audiobook was an easy 5 stars for me.
First, the dual narration was absolutely fantastic. Having one of my favorite female narrators, CJ Bloom, brought so much life and emotion to the story. The performances truly elevated the experience and made it impossible to stop listening.
Serena and Chase had me hooked from the very beginning. Their fake dating trope felt fresh and different from the typical storyline, which I loved. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and watching their relationship unfold kept me fully invested the entire time.
I’ve really enjoyed this series as a whole, but this one is hands down my favorite in the Oakwood Ranch series. Everything from the characters to the narration to the storyline just worked perfectly.
If you love romance audiobooks with amazing narration and a unique take on fake dating, this one is a must listen!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Playing for Keeps by Bella North (Book 3 in the Oakwood Ranch series) completely stole my heart! This audiobook was an easy 5 stars for me.
First, the dual narration was absolutely fantastic. Having one of my favorite female narrators, CJ Bloom, brought so much life and emotion to the story. The performances truly elevated the experience and made it impossible to stop listening.
Serena and Chase had me hooked from the very beginning. Their fake dating trope felt fresh and different from the typical storyline, which I loved. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and watching their relationship unfold kept me fully invested the entire time.
I’ve really enjoyed this series as a whole, but this one is hands down my favorite in the Oakwood Ranch series. Everything from the characters to the narration to the storyline just worked perfectly.
If you love romance audiobooks with amazing narration and a unique take on fake dating, this one is a must listen!
February 12, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! This was such a cute, quick sports romance.
There’s something about the friends-to-lovers trope that always gets me. Watching that moment when they suddenly realize they may have been in love the entire time—and everything shifts—is so satisfying.
This story also weaves in deeper plot line as well. The main character feels unable to fully experience love until he uncovers the truth about why his mother left when he was a baby. His relationship with his adoptive mom was especially heartwarming, and understanding why he needed that closure made my heart ache for him.
Overall, the dual plotlines worked well together, and the book was well written and easy to fly through.
There’s something about the friends-to-lovers trope that always gets me. Watching that moment when they suddenly realize they may have been in love the entire time—and everything shifts—is so satisfying.
This story also weaves in deeper plot line as well. The main character feels unable to fully experience love until he uncovers the truth about why his mother left when he was a baby. His relationship with his adoptive mom was especially heartwarming, and understanding why he needed that closure made my heart ache for him.
Overall, the dual plotlines worked well together, and the book was well written and easy to fly through.
April 2, 2026
I read this book in a single sitting. It’s fast paced and easy to follow. Both main characters were super believable as individuals but also as a couple.
Only down side is that the fake dating could have used a bit more time to develop and that would have helped the story to flow a bit better without the need to add more tropes.
All in all it’s a ver enjoyable story with well developed characters and cry worthy ending.
I received an ARC from NETGALLY.
Only down side is that the fake dating could have used a bit more time to develop and that would have helped the story to flow a bit better without the need to add more tropes.
All in all it’s a ver enjoyable story with well developed characters and cry worthy ending.
I received an ARC from NETGALLY.
April 18, 2026
This is book 3 of the Oakwood Ranch series narrated in duet by CJ Bloom & Sean Crisden. They did a wonderful job with the narration. The book itself was great! I really enjoyed this listen. Fake dating at its finest! Best friends to lovers written really well. The book had me in my feels for sure. Chase & Serena’s love story was so good. The spice was really good. I would recommend this listen for sure!
April 4, 2026
This is the first book I’ve read by Bella North and it definitely didn’t disappoint!
💖Fake Dating
💖Childhood Friends to Lovers
💖Slow Burn
💖Found Family
💖Sports Romance
I really enjoyed this book! Normally I’m not a fan of the friends to lovers trope but it was done really well throughout this book. I loved Chase and Serena’s friendship and how that developed throughout the book.
Was it a bit predictable in places? Yes but did that bother me? No!
Definitely recommend if you’re looking for an easy sports romance read.
3.5🌟
💖Fake Dating
💖Childhood Friends to Lovers
💖Slow Burn
💖Found Family
💖Sports Romance
I really enjoyed this book! Normally I’m not a fan of the friends to lovers trope but it was done really well throughout this book. I loved Chase and Serena’s friendship and how that developed throughout the book.
Was it a bit predictable in places? Yes but did that bother me? No!
Definitely recommend if you’re looking for an easy sports romance read.
3.5🌟
April 18, 2026
Another amazing installment in the Oakwood Ranch series! I think this is my new favorite. Chase and Serena are the perfect best friends to lovers story, with a side helping of fake dating. Watching these two struggle, make mistakes, recognize their flaws, and heal stronger was a beautiful journey.
The narration was once again fantastic. This book has a lot of big, emotional moments, and these performances did not disappoint!
Now that we’ve seen the last Sullivan brother find his happy ending, I sincerely hope this isn’t the end of Oakwood Ranch! I’m sure I’m not the only one hoping for another romance starring our favorite bartender?
The narration was once again fantastic. This book has a lot of big, emotional moments, and these performances did not disappoint!
Now that we’ve seen the last Sullivan brother find his happy ending, I sincerely hope this isn’t the end of Oakwood Ranch! I’m sure I’m not the only one hoping for another romance starring our favorite bartender?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Got the approval for this one today and I started reading straight away, could not put this one down. It’s quite a fast paced book, the fake dating is more or less done 40-50% in and then I felt that the ending was far too sudden, I felt this book could have benefited from 50~ pages just because the surprise pregnancy came about and then a couple weeks before Chase pulls his head out of his ass, it’s a lot of time we the reader just don’t get with the pacing, but I would have preferred more grovelling from Chase and seeing him being the partner Serena deserves and seeing some of the pregnancy moments, at a scan or something like that just to give us more, see how Chase spoils Serena and is protective as hell over her and the babies. You know, get a glimpse into the work Chase is doing for himself, therapy etc.
The weather updates, random facts and their chemistry. I loved it. I loved how they had a friendship that was basically a base for them like to grow to a couple.
I don’t really like a friends to lovers trope in the sense of one just pining for years and saying nothing. It frustrates me but I wasn’t too bothered in this one. Serena wasn’t just sitting along while Chase was out being a manwhore.
I did not see the surprise pregnancy coming at all. I just figured that Chase would have some realisation that he wanted the same things as Serena. I did love this twist, and I was happy for Serena, I know how it feels to feel somewhat behind in life and I would have thought I’d be at that point too, wondering if it’s an if and not when. Hold on and keep hope.
His reaction to her being pregnant was genuinely horrible and childish. There’s nothing wrong with shock etc BUT he literally RAN away and drove off on the mother of his kids… and then it’s like he shows her a furnished house and it’s all resolved. Nah. He should have been grovelling and literally see him do things to prove this to her, like literally had been friends their entire life and how he treated her then was just upsetting to read. I felt heartbroken for Serena in that moment. He knew too how much being a mom meant to her and took that moment from her. That really angered me and genuinely was the only part of the book that I disliked. I’d consider maybe knocking 0.5/0.75 off the rating so 4.5-4.75 stars
I am so confused why only one of the babies name is said??? Is that just me who is annoyed about that? I’m nosey lol I just want to know. I re read the epilogue three times to be sure I didn’t just miss it. Bella North please tell us!!
I’ve read all of the books from this series, so I loved to get a catch up with them. I love Mad and Izzy. AND Izzy having a baby!! Yes
Mama is the person who person who’ll set you straight. She’s not a meddling character but she delivers the home truths when needed, I love a boy mom who is not afraid to call their sons out and also be a good mom while doing it. Mama should forget being a sports agent and be a therapist for real. She’d help so much. I wanna see Flic get a story, but the three boys have their own books so if this is the end of the series, I’m still happy regardless. Maybe Mama gets with a GM or coach in a book?
It’s a great series. I think this is my favourite one of the series.
The writing style is easy to follow and understand. I was bad at English at school, but always loved reading and the style just made it so easy to completely fall in love with this book.
Thank you so much to Bella North, Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
- fake dating
- dual POV
- friends to lovers
- sports romance
- surprise pregnancy trope
The weather updates, random facts and their chemistry. I loved it. I loved how they had a friendship that was basically a base for them like to grow to a couple.
I don’t really like a friends to lovers trope in the sense of one just pining for years and saying nothing. It frustrates me but I wasn’t too bothered in this one. Serena wasn’t just sitting along while Chase was out being a manwhore.
I did not see the surprise pregnancy coming at all. I just figured that Chase would have some realisation that he wanted the same things as Serena. I did love this twist, and I was happy for Serena, I know how it feels to feel somewhat behind in life and I would have thought I’d be at that point too, wondering if it’s an if and not when. Hold on and keep hope.
His reaction to her being pregnant was genuinely horrible and childish. There’s nothing wrong with shock etc BUT he literally RAN away and drove off on the mother of his kids… and then it’s like he shows her a furnished house and it’s all resolved. Nah. He should have been grovelling and literally see him do things to prove this to her, like literally had been friends their entire life and how he treated her then was just upsetting to read. I felt heartbroken for Serena in that moment. He knew too how much being a mom meant to her and took that moment from her. That really angered me and genuinely was the only part of the book that I disliked. I’d consider maybe knocking 0.5/0.75 off the rating so 4.5-4.75 stars
I am so confused why only one of the babies name is said??? Is that just me who is annoyed about that? I’m nosey lol I just want to know. I re read the epilogue three times to be sure I didn’t just miss it. Bella North please tell us!!
I’ve read all of the books from this series, so I loved to get a catch up with them. I love Mad and Izzy. AND Izzy having a baby!! Yes
Mama is the person who person who’ll set you straight. She’s not a meddling character but she delivers the home truths when needed, I love a boy mom who is not afraid to call their sons out and also be a good mom while doing it. Mama should forget being a sports agent and be a therapist for real. She’d help so much. I wanna see Flic get a story, but the three boys have their own books so if this is the end of the series, I’m still happy regardless. Maybe Mama gets with a GM or coach in a book?
It’s a great series. I think this is my favourite one of the series.
The writing style is easy to follow and understand. I was bad at English at school, but always loved reading and the style just made it so easy to completely fall in love with this book.
Thank you so much to Bella North, Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
- fake dating
- dual POV
- friends to lovers
- sports romance
- surprise pregnancy trope
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
@justcallme_linaa_ sur Instagram
🇫🇷 Playing for Keeps, de Bella North
*service presse numérique*
5/5⭐️
Merci à NetGalley pour le SP de Playing for Keeps et wow, je l’ai littéralement dévoré. Impossible de le poser. C’est exactement le genre de romance sportive que j’adore : fake dating + meilleurs amis depuis l’enfance + tension + émotions = combo parfait.
On suit Serena et Chase, meilleurs amis depuis l’école primaire. Lui est quarterback en NFL (avec le hashtag viral #ChasingLove qui n’aide PAS sa tranquillité), elle est coach de cheer, passionnée de météo (oui, et j’ai adoré ce petit côté geek). Quand ses fans deviennent envahissantes et que l’ex de Serena refuse de comprendre que c’est fini, quoi de mieux que de faire semblant de sortir ensemble ? Sauf que… évidemment, les lignes deviennent floues. Et quand on ajoute des sentiments enfouis depuis des années… ça fait des étincelles.
Ce que j’ai le plus aimé, c’est la base de leur relation. Leur amitié est tellement solide, tellement douce. On sent l’histoire entre eux, les souvenirs, les private jokes, les messages au début des chapitres (j’ai A-DO-RÉ ce détail, ça rendait tout encore plus réel). Quand leur relation évolue, ça ne sort pas de nulle part. Ça paraît naturel. Mérité.
Mais surtout… l’émotion. Chase m’a brisé le cœur. Son passé, ses peurs, sa manière de repousser Serena “pour son bien”… j’étais MAL. Le third act conflict m’a vraiment touchée. J’aime quand ça fait mal avant de réparer, et ici ça a fonctionné. Même si j’aurais aimé un peu plus de pages avant l’épilogue pour profiter davantage de leur bonheur.
J’ai aussi adoré la dynamique familiale, les frères, Mama… ça donne une vraie sensation de found family hyper chaleureuse. On s’attache à tout le monde.
🇺🇸 Playing for Keeps, by Bella North
*ARC Review*
5/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Playing for Keeps and wow, I literally devoured it. I couldn’t put it down. It’s exactly the kind of sports romance I love: fake dating + childhood best friends + tension + emotions = the perfect combo.
We follow Serena and Chase, best friends since elementary school. He’s an NFL quarterback (with the viral hashtag #ChasingLove not helping his peace at all), and she’s a cheer coach who’s obsessed with weather (yes, and I loved that geeky side of her). When his fans become too much and Serena’s ex refuses to accept that it’s over, what’s better than pretending to date each other? Except… of course, the lines start to blur. And when you add feelings that have been buried for years? Sparks fly.
What I loved most was the foundation of their relationship. Their friendship is so strong and so soft. You can feel their history, the memories, the inside jokes, the text messages at the beginning of the chapters (I LOVED that detail : it made everything feel more real). When their relationship shifts, it doesn’t come out of nowhere. It feels natural. Earned.
But most of all… the emotion. Chase broke my heart. His past, his fears, the way he pushes Serena away “for her own good”… I was hurting. That third-act conflict really got me. I love when a story hurts a little before it heals, and this one delivered. I just wish we had a few more pages before the epilogue to enjoy their happiness longer.
I also loved the family dynamic : the brothers, Mama… it gives such a warm found family feeling. You get attached to everyone.
With all my love,
Ur Lina 🏑
🇫🇷 Playing for Keeps, de Bella North
*service presse numérique*
5/5⭐️
Merci à NetGalley pour le SP de Playing for Keeps et wow, je l’ai littéralement dévoré. Impossible de le poser. C’est exactement le genre de romance sportive que j’adore : fake dating + meilleurs amis depuis l’enfance + tension + émotions = combo parfait.
On suit Serena et Chase, meilleurs amis depuis l’école primaire. Lui est quarterback en NFL (avec le hashtag viral #ChasingLove qui n’aide PAS sa tranquillité), elle est coach de cheer, passionnée de météo (oui, et j’ai adoré ce petit côté geek). Quand ses fans deviennent envahissantes et que l’ex de Serena refuse de comprendre que c’est fini, quoi de mieux que de faire semblant de sortir ensemble ? Sauf que… évidemment, les lignes deviennent floues. Et quand on ajoute des sentiments enfouis depuis des années… ça fait des étincelles.
Ce que j’ai le plus aimé, c’est la base de leur relation. Leur amitié est tellement solide, tellement douce. On sent l’histoire entre eux, les souvenirs, les private jokes, les messages au début des chapitres (j’ai A-DO-RÉ ce détail, ça rendait tout encore plus réel). Quand leur relation évolue, ça ne sort pas de nulle part. Ça paraît naturel. Mérité.
Mais surtout… l’émotion. Chase m’a brisé le cœur. Son passé, ses peurs, sa manière de repousser Serena “pour son bien”… j’étais MAL. Le third act conflict m’a vraiment touchée. J’aime quand ça fait mal avant de réparer, et ici ça a fonctionné. Même si j’aurais aimé un peu plus de pages avant l’épilogue pour profiter davantage de leur bonheur.
J’ai aussi adoré la dynamique familiale, les frères, Mama… ça donne une vraie sensation de found family hyper chaleureuse. On s’attache à tout le monde.
🇺🇸 Playing for Keeps, by Bella North
*ARC Review*
5/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Playing for Keeps and wow, I literally devoured it. I couldn’t put it down. It’s exactly the kind of sports romance I love: fake dating + childhood best friends + tension + emotions = the perfect combo.
We follow Serena and Chase, best friends since elementary school. He’s an NFL quarterback (with the viral hashtag #ChasingLove not helping his peace at all), and she’s a cheer coach who’s obsessed with weather (yes, and I loved that geeky side of her). When his fans become too much and Serena’s ex refuses to accept that it’s over, what’s better than pretending to date each other? Except… of course, the lines start to blur. And when you add feelings that have been buried for years? Sparks fly.
What I loved most was the foundation of their relationship. Their friendship is so strong and so soft. You can feel their history, the memories, the inside jokes, the text messages at the beginning of the chapters (I LOVED that detail : it made everything feel more real). When their relationship shifts, it doesn’t come out of nowhere. It feels natural. Earned.
But most of all… the emotion. Chase broke my heart. His past, his fears, the way he pushes Serena away “for her own good”… I was hurting. That third-act conflict really got me. I love when a story hurts a little before it heals, and this one delivered. I just wish we had a few more pages before the epilogue to enjoy their happiness longer.
I also loved the family dynamic : the brothers, Mama… it gives such a warm found family feeling. You get attached to everyone.
With all my love,
Ur Lina 🏑
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Quick Summary: A QB/BFF romance
My Review: Playing for Keeps by Bella North is book #3 in the Oakwood Ranch series. It is scheduled for release on 4/27/26.
About the Book: "My life revolves around two things: football, and family. Romance? Not so much.
My childhood best friend Serena thinks it’s hilarious.
And then... a fake romance.
It’s all fun and games until fake starts to feel like forever…"
In My Own Words: Chase and Serena have been best friends since childhood. When they both need a buffer from the world around them, it's only logical that they would look to each other as the solution. But what happens when they each catch feelings?
About the Characters: I have read all three books in this series, and I have enjoyed meeting every character that is a part of this family/found family. The Sullivan tribe and their extended friends and family are endearing and represent what heart, family, and love are all about. This book brought all of them together in another unique way. It was a good read.
Chase - > Talented QB, protector, bestie, family oriented but guarded in certain respects, playful uncle, insecure in matters of the heart related to partner commitment, scarred by past
Serena - > Quirky, focused, determined, patient at a cost, hesitant, fun loving auntie, all in kind of heart
About the Conflict: While the conflict in this book scored low, in my estimation, the conflict points were notable and telling. Both leads had a long standing internal, personal struggle in regard to certain relationship elements. Those aspects led to tension, doubt, insecurity, and not so great choices. Well, that made for good reading, which I was totally here for.
I personally loved the inner tug of war that Chase had dealing with the unresolved matters he faced. It added texture to his life. I loved the mental health nod and the surrounding supports that were expressly available to him. Where his character was headed along that storyline, I was totally following. It came across as realistic. In the end, I was left as he was, for better or worse. That made for good reading, as well.
The other situation that shall not be named (so as to avoid spoilers) was... I could say a lot, but I won't, but it was a tick, tick, boom situation.
About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by CJ Bloom and Sean Crisden. This duo did a stellar job. I enjoyed their rhythm and enthusiastically expressive efforts.
My Final Say: I really liked this story. It had more layers that I expected. In the end, I got what I got and so did Chase and Serena. Growth happened and realization dawned.
Honorable Mention: Bella North wrote the heck out of what I will call the hot & spicy real deal. OKKKKAAAYYY!
Other: Readers who enjoy sports romances, found family love fests, fake dating scenarios, and BFF/friends to lovers encounters will like this romance novel.
TROPES:
🌶️Friends to lovers
🌶️Fake dating
🌶️Sports romance
🌶️Golden retriever boyfriend
🌶️Slow burn
🌶️Workplace romance (sports star vs cheerleader coach)
🌶️Found family
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Level: 🌶️🌶️
Format: 🎧
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Bookouture), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest review. It was a fantastic listening experience. I am grateful for the opportunity.
My Review: Playing for Keeps by Bella North is book #3 in the Oakwood Ranch series. It is scheduled for release on 4/27/26.
About the Book: "My life revolves around two things: football, and family. Romance? Not so much.
My childhood best friend Serena thinks it’s hilarious.
And then... a fake romance.
It’s all fun and games until fake starts to feel like forever…"
In My Own Words: Chase and Serena have been best friends since childhood. When they both need a buffer from the world around them, it's only logical that they would look to each other as the solution. But what happens when they each catch feelings?
About the Characters: I have read all three books in this series, and I have enjoyed meeting every character that is a part of this family/found family. The Sullivan tribe and their extended friends and family are endearing and represent what heart, family, and love are all about. This book brought all of them together in another unique way. It was a good read.
Chase - > Talented QB, protector, bestie, family oriented but guarded in certain respects, playful uncle, insecure in matters of the heart related to partner commitment, scarred by past
Serena - > Quirky, focused, determined, patient at a cost, hesitant, fun loving auntie, all in kind of heart
About the Conflict: While the conflict in this book scored low, in my estimation, the conflict points were notable and telling. Both leads had a long standing internal, personal struggle in regard to certain relationship elements. Those aspects led to tension, doubt, insecurity, and not so great choices. Well, that made for good reading, which I was totally here for.
I personally loved the inner tug of war that Chase had dealing with the unresolved matters he faced. It added texture to his life. I loved the mental health nod and the surrounding supports that were expressly available to him. Where his character was headed along that storyline, I was totally following. It came across as realistic. In the end, I was left as he was, for better or worse. That made for good reading, as well.
The other situation that shall not be named (so as to avoid spoilers) was... I could say a lot, but I won't, but it was a tick, tick, boom situation.
About the Audiobook: This novel was narrated by CJ Bloom and Sean Crisden. This duo did a stellar job. I enjoyed their rhythm and enthusiastically expressive efforts.
My Final Say: I really liked this story. It had more layers that I expected. In the end, I got what I got and so did Chase and Serena. Growth happened and realization dawned.
Honorable Mention: Bella North wrote the heck out of what I will call the hot & spicy real deal. OKKKKAAAYYY!
Other: Readers who enjoy sports romances, found family love fests, fake dating scenarios, and BFF/friends to lovers encounters will like this romance novel.
TROPES:
🌶️Friends to lovers
🌶️Fake dating
🌶️Sports romance
🌶️Golden retriever boyfriend
🌶️Slow burn
🌶️Workplace romance (sports star vs cheerleader coach)
🌶️Found family
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Level: 🌶️🌶️
Format: 🎧
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Bookouture), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest review. It was a fantastic listening experience. I am grateful for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s something really special about returning to a series where you already feel connected to the characters, and this book absolutely delivered on that front. I’ve loved getting to know the Sullivan family, and this installment had me especially invested from the start—and experiencing it in audio made that return even more immersive.
The duet narration is a standout for me. Both narrators (CJ Bloom and Sean Crisden) bring warmth and nuance to their performances, but Crisden in particular completely embodies Chase. His delivery adds so much charm and emotional depth, making it easy to empathize with the character’s internal struggles and fall even harder for the relationship at the center of the story.
This is a friends-to-lovers romance that truly works (coming from someone who often finds that trope to be a hard sell). The history between the characters feels genuine, and their emotional dynamics are well-developed—his belief that he’s not the right person for her, contrasted with her long-held feelings, creates a compelling push-and-pull that carries much of the story. Watching their relationship shift, particularly through the fake dating setup, was both satisfying and, at times, genuinely heartwarming.
For the majority of the book, I was completely swept up in their story. The character work is strong, the chemistry is undeniable, the way they consistently showed up for each other tugged at my heart, and there’s a softness to their connection that makes it easy to root for them. Serena is independent and emotionally grounded, and Chase has a warmth (and golden retriever energy) to him that makes his internal struggles feel believable rather than frustrating—at least for most of the book.
The third act is where things became a bit more complicated for me. While I could understand the motivations behind the conflict, some of the choices—particularly around how Chase handled distance and communication—were harder to reconcile with the relationship that had been built earlier in the story. It didn’t take away from everything that came before, but it did shift my emotional experience in those final chapters.
That said, the ending does bring things back to a satisfying place, and I appreciated the overall direction of the resolution, even if I found myself wishing for a bit more emotional payoff along the way.
All in all, this was a strong addition to the series and a very enjoyable read, made even more engaging by the narration. I’m already looking forward to whatever comes next in this world—especially if a strongly hinted-at story about a certain beloved bartender is on the horizon…
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
The duet narration is a standout for me. Both narrators (CJ Bloom and Sean Crisden) bring warmth and nuance to their performances, but Crisden in particular completely embodies Chase. His delivery adds so much charm and emotional depth, making it easy to empathize with the character’s internal struggles and fall even harder for the relationship at the center of the story.
This is a friends-to-lovers romance that truly works (coming from someone who often finds that trope to be a hard sell). The history between the characters feels genuine, and their emotional dynamics are well-developed—his belief that he’s not the right person for her, contrasted with her long-held feelings, creates a compelling push-and-pull that carries much of the story. Watching their relationship shift, particularly through the fake dating setup, was both satisfying and, at times, genuinely heartwarming.
For the majority of the book, I was completely swept up in their story. The character work is strong, the chemistry is undeniable, the way they consistently showed up for each other tugged at my heart, and there’s a softness to their connection that makes it easy to root for them. Serena is independent and emotionally grounded, and Chase has a warmth (and golden retriever energy) to him that makes his internal struggles feel believable rather than frustrating—at least for most of the book.
The third act is where things became a bit more complicated for me. While I could understand the motivations behind the conflict, some of the choices—particularly around how Chase handled distance and communication—were harder to reconcile with the relationship that had been built earlier in the story. It didn’t take away from everything that came before, but it did shift my emotional experience in those final chapters.
That said, the ending does bring things back to a satisfying place, and I appreciated the overall direction of the resolution, even if I found myself wishing for a bit more emotional payoff along the way.
All in all, this was a strong addition to the series and a very enjoyable read, made even more engaging by the narration. I’m already looking forward to whatever comes next in this world—especially if a strongly hinted-at story about a certain beloved bartender is on the horizon…
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for my audiobook arc of Playing for Keeps. All opinions are my own.
Now, the reason I requested this audiobook was that I adore CJ Bloom, one of the narrators. I'll gush about her work in a moment, but first about the book:
One sentence summary: former pro-cheerleader and pro-football player are BFFs forever...until they fake date.
This was a fast-paced read with a few smiles along the way. Their friendship was an easy sell. I enjoyed the sweet banter and care they had for one another. Serena was an interesting FMC; her personality was a blend of Elle Woods and Elena Gilbert: smart, sweet, and a vastly underestimated blonde.
Chase was a wee bit of a harder character to enjoy. He seemed to be stuck on one beat and unable to see past himself. His choices at the end were heartbreaking, and I really struggled with him as a character in general.
Side note: Perhaps the following confusion was because I jumped in at book three, but I wasn't sold on the football league as a whole. It felt much too small a machine (then again, I'm from Texas, where football (high school, collegiate, and pro) is HUGE. And he was supposed to be baby-Peyton Manning adjacent? Who knows.)
There are some bigger "tropes" at play, but it was nice to see them done with Ms. North's own flavor. For example, the two main characters (Serena and Chase) fake dated, but their friends were in on the deception. The found family was believable, and I really enjoyed the story when they were around. There is a bigger trope that might be triggering for some readers, so (no spoilers!), but I would give the book a skim if you find you're in a tender place regarding family planning.
Narration:
-CJ Bloom was fantastic. Her voice reminds me a bit of Kristen Bell, and it really worked with this story. I look forward to listening to more of the books she narrates!
-The male narrator was new to me. I ended up googling him to see if this was his first audiobook to narrate....it wasn't. His style was fine in normal conversation, but the moment the prose veered into silly, romantic, or emotional... yeah. Not for me. (I may have audibly said "ick!" during one of their love scenes due to a....growl/groan/moan? It sounded like my dog when she yawns. Weird choice, but ok.)
An easy 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 for the sweet friendship, narration, and fast pace. Other stars knocked off for Chase's weird choices and male narration.
Now, the reason I requested this audiobook was that I adore CJ Bloom, one of the narrators. I'll gush about her work in a moment, but first about the book:
One sentence summary: former pro-cheerleader and pro-football player are BFFs forever...until they fake date.
This was a fast-paced read with a few smiles along the way. Their friendship was an easy sell. I enjoyed the sweet banter and care they had for one another. Serena was an interesting FMC; her personality was a blend of Elle Woods and Elena Gilbert: smart, sweet, and a vastly underestimated blonde.
Chase was a wee bit of a harder character to enjoy. He seemed to be stuck on one beat and unable to see past himself. His choices at the end were heartbreaking, and I really struggled with him as a character in general.
Side note: Perhaps the following confusion was because I jumped in at book three, but I wasn't sold on the football league as a whole. It felt much too small a machine (then again, I'm from Texas, where football (high school, collegiate, and pro) is HUGE. And he was supposed to be baby-Peyton Manning adjacent? Who knows.)
There are some bigger "tropes" at play, but it was nice to see them done with Ms. North's own flavor. For example, the two main characters (Serena and Chase) fake dated, but their friends were in on the deception. The found family was believable, and I really enjoyed the story when they were around. There is a bigger trope that might be triggering for some readers, so (no spoilers!), but I would give the book a skim if you find you're in a tender place regarding family planning.
Narration:
-CJ Bloom was fantastic. Her voice reminds me a bit of Kristen Bell, and it really worked with this story. I look forward to listening to more of the books she narrates!
-The male narrator was new to me. I ended up googling him to see if this was his first audiobook to narrate....it wasn't. His style was fine in normal conversation, but the moment the prose veered into silly, romantic, or emotional... yeah. Not for me. (I may have audibly said "ick!" during one of their love scenes due to a....growl/groan/moan? It sounded like my dog when she yawns. Weird choice, but ok.)
An easy 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 for the sweet friendship, narration, and fast pace. Other stars knocked off for Chase's weird choices and male narration.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I absolutely gobbled this book up! Listened to the whole audiobook in one day! I was gifted an ALC of Playing for Keeps and cannot rave enough about the duet narration. CJ Bloom and Sean Crisden deliver an exceptional performance, perfectly capturing the joy, tension, heartbreak, and love between the FMC and MMC. Their narration transforms the story into a fully immersive experience, making you feel like you’re living alongside the characters rather than simply listening in. At its heart, this is a deeply emotional friends-to-lovers romance. The FMC is strong, independent. She has weathered personal financial struggles and relationship disappointments with resilience and compassion. She is also unapologetically emotionally supportive to her best friend - who has been her constant through it all. And who is that best friend, the MMC of course. While he hasn’t faced financial hardship, he carries emotional scars of his own. Firmly believing he’s not meant for a true romantic love or family of his own. When a media slip-up and an annoying ex create the perfect storm, fake dating seems like a harmless solution. Nothing could go wrong --- said nobody ever! Past feelings buried deep for the FMC, and a new awakening of feelings for our MMC have these two embarking on a possible 'what if.' Then the first plot twist occurs, followed by the second. The first I didn't see coming, but the second one was anticipated early on in the story. Was it a bit predictable in places? Yes. Did that stop me from eagerly listening to the audiobook on and off throughout my day whenever possible? Absolutely not. Overall I rate this book a 4 star read/listen, and a 2-3 chili pepper for two events of on page intimate scenes written on the page. The scenes are tastefully written though and not over the top. Additionally, if explicit on-page details are not for you, then you could easily skip over these sections and it would not deter from the story.
If you are craving a romantic, cozy, hopeful, heartfelt story of friends to loves then do not hesitate to add Playing for Keeps to your TBR. I highly recommend the audiobook for this novel as the two narrators did this book justice in every way. Thank you to author Bella North, NetGalley, and Bookouture Audio for allowing me to be a part of this ALC team.
#PlayingForKeeps #BellaNorth #NetGalley #BookOutureAudio #OakwoodRanchSeries #RomanceBooks
If you are craving a romantic, cozy, hopeful, heartfelt story of friends to loves then do not hesitate to add Playing for Keeps to your TBR. I highly recommend the audiobook for this novel as the two narrators did this book justice in every way. Thank you to author Bella North, NetGalley, and Bookouture Audio for allowing me to be a part of this ALC team.
#PlayingForKeeps #BellaNorth #NetGalley #BookOutureAudio #OakwoodRanchSeries #RomanceBooks
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This one didn't really hit the same for me as the previous two did. It was an okay read, it just felt very clique and predictable to me.
The story follows Chase and Serena who have been best friends for years. Serena is in love with her best friend and after one new years kiss that Serena thought would move them into the more than friends category, Chase unfortunately doesn't and he makes her promise to always be his best friend. Serena is heartbroken and takes takes that as her sign that he'll never have feelings for her and so she buries her feelings down deep .. right up until Chase asks her to be his fake date to get stop all his female football fans from trying to become his girlfriend.
Now this was a cute story in itself and I feel like the story started really well. However as the story progressed I just felt like Serena was just doing too much. It was always her going out of her way for him and it didn't feel reciprocated imo. It was like she had zero self preservation.
The weather thing got a bit irritating after a while - I did not need that much weather info in the story.
The story also for veered too much on the smut side for this couple to me. We went way too quickly from we can't cross this boundary to let's absolutely just do the most. There didn't seem to be any - are we really doing this? Or does this feel weird. I dunno I feel like there should have been more of a transition. I just got to a point where I lost the connection to them as a couple.
Chase obviously had his issues but I think there just wasn't the communication there that I would normally like. We just went from I fucked up to then just doing this big grand gesture and ok yes let's just completely forget every douchebag thing you've done for the last 6 weeks. I find it hard to believe she could so easily just go back to trusting him straight away so the ending felt extremely rushed. I also think he was a bit of a dick that just kinda got used to Serena always being there and doing the most. Then all of a sudden eptihany hits and he learns the error of his ways. It just didn't feel believable to me.
It's an okay read if you're just after a pallette cleanser. I prefer fmc's that make the man work for it and I just felt like Serena gave everything up on a platter and it felt kinda easy. Didn't hate it but didn't love it either.
The story follows Chase and Serena who have been best friends for years. Serena is in love with her best friend and after one new years kiss that Serena thought would move them into the more than friends category, Chase unfortunately doesn't and he makes her promise to always be his best friend. Serena is heartbroken and takes takes that as her sign that he'll never have feelings for her and so she buries her feelings down deep .. right up until Chase asks her to be his fake date to get stop all his female football fans from trying to become his girlfriend.
Now this was a cute story in itself and I feel like the story started really well. However as the story progressed I just felt like Serena was just doing too much. It was always her going out of her way for him and it didn't feel reciprocated imo. It was like she had zero self preservation.
The weather thing got a bit irritating after a while - I did not need that much weather info in the story.
The story also for veered too much on the smut side for this couple to me. We went way too quickly from we can't cross this boundary to let's absolutely just do the most. There didn't seem to be any - are we really doing this? Or does this feel weird. I dunno I feel like there should have been more of a transition. I just got to a point where I lost the connection to them as a couple.
Chase obviously had his issues but I think there just wasn't the communication there that I would normally like. We just went from I fucked up to then just doing this big grand gesture and ok yes let's just completely forget every douchebag thing you've done for the last 6 weeks. I find it hard to believe she could so easily just go back to trusting him straight away so the ending felt extremely rushed. I also think he was a bit of a dick that just kinda got used to Serena always being there and doing the most. Then all of a sudden eptihany hits and he learns the error of his ways. It just didn't feel believable to me.
It's an okay read if you're just after a pallette cleanser. I prefer fmc's that make the man work for it and I just felt like Serena gave everything up on a platter and it felt kinda easy. Didn't hate it but didn't love it either.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
(Duet Narration Audiobook) Serena, a football cheerleader, and Chase, a pro football quarterback, have been friends since childhood. Serena has been in love with him since they were 16 though. Serena has plans to tell Chase how she feels but after a drunken kiss realizes Chase doesn’t reciprocate the feelings, so she keeps things to herself. Jump to 6 years later and they’re still best friends, but agree to fake date in order to get her ex off her back and to stop his fans from trying to set him up with dates. The fake dating leads to real feelings on their part though before things take a turn.
Unfortunately this book didn’t do it for me, and I spent too much time feeling frustrated. Serena’s ex, who works for the same team she does, was stalking her and threatening her job. Yet she didn’t want to get him in trouble at work so she chose not to say anything, and it even got to the point of him threatening her position unless she got back together with him. Chase wanted her to go to HR, but she put it off. Then her ex comes to her apartment and starts screaming at her and banging on the door, she reasons that calling the police is not the answer as it would be silly to do so, and what would she tell them? How about your ex is stalking you and acting violent‽
Then in the third act Chase, who has abandonment issues after his parents gave him up, did the exact same thing to Serena when things got serious. His reasoning was he didn’t want to be like his folks and end up leaving one day, so he was going to leave now. It made absolutely no sense, and was really frustrating. Unfortunately I don’t feel he groveled enough, and he really should have sought out therapy and worked on his issues. Serena forgave him too easily in my opinion.
The narration is what made me give the book an extra star and CJ Bloom and Sean Crisden did a great job and I liked their performance. While the book had potential, I spent too much time being annoyed at the characters, and that made it less enjoyable for me. I want to thank Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the copy of this audiobook though, and I voluntarily chose to leave a review.
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
M/F
Contemporary Romance
Unfortunately this book didn’t do it for me, and I spent too much time feeling frustrated. Serena’s ex, who works for the same team she does, was stalking her and threatening her job. Yet she didn’t want to get him in trouble at work so she chose not to say anything, and it even got to the point of him threatening her position unless she got back together with him. Chase wanted her to go to HR, but she put it off. Then her ex comes to her apartment and starts screaming at her and banging on the door, she reasons that calling the police is not the answer as it would be silly to do so, and what would she tell them? How about your ex is stalking you and acting violent‽
Then in the third act Chase, who has abandonment issues after his parents gave him up, did the exact same thing to Serena when things got serious. His reasoning was he didn’t want to be like his folks and end up leaving one day, so he was going to leave now. It made absolutely no sense, and was really frustrating. Unfortunately I don’t feel he groveled enough, and he really should have sought out therapy and worked on his issues. Serena forgave him too easily in my opinion.
The narration is what made me give the book an extra star and CJ Bloom and Sean Crisden did a great job and I liked their performance. While the book had potential, I spent too much time being annoyed at the characters, and that made it less enjoyable for me. I want to thank Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the copy of this audiobook though, and I voluntarily chose to leave a review.
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
M/F
Contemporary Romance
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My Rating: ★★★★½
Playing For Keeps by Bella North is a contemporary sports romance that blends fake dating charm, childhood best-friends-to-lovers tension, and emotional vulnerability into a story that feels both lighthearted and heartfelt. Set against the backdrop of professional football and public scrutiny, the narrative leans into forced proximity, media pressure, and the quiet unraveling of feelings that were never as “fake” as they seemed.
Where this novel shines most clearly is in its character dynamic. The connection between the hero and Serena feels natural and deeply rooted, built on years of friendship that translate seamlessly into romantic tension. Their chemistry develops with a sense of familiarity and ease, making every shift; from playful banter to something more emotionally charged; feel believable and earned. The fake dating trope is handled with confidence, allowing the emotional stakes to build organically rather than relying on unnecessary drama.
The pacing is smooth and engaging, particularly as the story moves from its playful premise into more emotionally grounded territory. The transition from friendship to romance is gradual enough to feel authentic, while still maintaining enough momentum to keep the reader invested. If anything, a touch more exploration of the deeper emotional conflicts, particularly around commitment and fear of letting others down, could have added even more depth, but the story remains compelling throughout.
Because of this balance between warmth, tension, and emotional growth, the reading experience feels both comforting and satisfying. The romance isn’t just about falling in love, but about confronting long-held fears and allowing vulnerability to take the lead. That emotional undercurrent gives the story a resonance that lingers beyond its lighter, more playful moments.
I would strongly recommend Playing For Keeps to readers who enjoy fake dating, best-friends-to-lovers dynamics, protective yet emotionally guarded heroes, and sports romance with genuine heart. Those looking for a story that blends swoon-worthy moments with meaningful character development will likely find this especially enjoyable.
Overall, this is a charming, emotionally engaging, and quietly swooney read that delivers on both romance and character depth; proving that sometimes the best love stories are the ones that were there all along.
Playing For Keeps by Bella North is a contemporary sports romance that blends fake dating charm, childhood best-friends-to-lovers tension, and emotional vulnerability into a story that feels both lighthearted and heartfelt. Set against the backdrop of professional football and public scrutiny, the narrative leans into forced proximity, media pressure, and the quiet unraveling of feelings that were never as “fake” as they seemed.
Where this novel shines most clearly is in its character dynamic. The connection between the hero and Serena feels natural and deeply rooted, built on years of friendship that translate seamlessly into romantic tension. Their chemistry develops with a sense of familiarity and ease, making every shift; from playful banter to something more emotionally charged; feel believable and earned. The fake dating trope is handled with confidence, allowing the emotional stakes to build organically rather than relying on unnecessary drama.
The pacing is smooth and engaging, particularly as the story moves from its playful premise into more emotionally grounded territory. The transition from friendship to romance is gradual enough to feel authentic, while still maintaining enough momentum to keep the reader invested. If anything, a touch more exploration of the deeper emotional conflicts, particularly around commitment and fear of letting others down, could have added even more depth, but the story remains compelling throughout.
Because of this balance between warmth, tension, and emotional growth, the reading experience feels both comforting and satisfying. The romance isn’t just about falling in love, but about confronting long-held fears and allowing vulnerability to take the lead. That emotional undercurrent gives the story a resonance that lingers beyond its lighter, more playful moments.
I would strongly recommend Playing For Keeps to readers who enjoy fake dating, best-friends-to-lovers dynamics, protective yet emotionally guarded heroes, and sports romance with genuine heart. Those looking for a story that blends swoon-worthy moments with meaningful character development will likely find this especially enjoyable.
Overall, this is a charming, emotionally engaging, and quietly swooney read that delivers on both romance and character depth; proving that sometimes the best love stories are the ones that were there all along.
February 6, 2026
Another great read in this series! I was going to say the final Oakwood Ranch book but I do wonder if we might get a book for Flic and possibly a new mystery football team owner?! Perhaps that will be a new series though?!
Playing for keeps follows Jake and Dylan’s brother Chase. We’ve met him and his best friend Serena in their books. Biologically Chase is actually their cousin but they were raised together as brothers after his mother abandoned him age 2, and his father has never been in his life. So despite the love and support of the rest of his family, Chase has always felt there was something missing, and maybe something wrong with him. He’s vowed that marriage and kids will never be on the cards for him because of this- he doesn’t want to repeat his biological parents’ mistakes.
Chase and Serena have been best friends since they were children. Her ex is causing trouble- he won’t take no for an answer. Everyone thinks Chase needs to find love. So when it’s suggested that fake dating for a little while might solve both their problems, it feels like a no brainer. But will they be able to keep strictly in the friend zone afterwards?
I absolutely loved Serena! She is such a warm, nurturing soul and a wonderful friend. I really liked the layers to her character and what a hard worker she was. I loved Chase for the most part but he really frustrated me towards the end and I was pretty mad at him a couple of times! I would have liked to see the mental health aspect of his abandonment explored a little deeper, and the ending felt quite rushed. I think the resolution could have been a bit longer and it would have been great to see more of them when they were fully together. From memory this was similar to book 2 where the ending felt rushed too.
Overall an enjoyable read and I’m keeping my fingers crossed for another book set in this world so we can revisit Chase and Serena again in the future.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Playing for keeps follows Jake and Dylan’s brother Chase. We’ve met him and his best friend Serena in their books. Biologically Chase is actually their cousin but they were raised together as brothers after his mother abandoned him age 2, and his father has never been in his life. So despite the love and support of the rest of his family, Chase has always felt there was something missing, and maybe something wrong with him. He’s vowed that marriage and kids will never be on the cards for him because of this- he doesn’t want to repeat his biological parents’ mistakes.
Chase and Serena have been best friends since they were children. Her ex is causing trouble- he won’t take no for an answer. Everyone thinks Chase needs to find love. So when it’s suggested that fake dating for a little while might solve both their problems, it feels like a no brainer. But will they be able to keep strictly in the friend zone afterwards?
I absolutely loved Serena! She is such a warm, nurturing soul and a wonderful friend. I really liked the layers to her character and what a hard worker she was. I loved Chase for the most part but he really frustrated me towards the end and I was pretty mad at him a couple of times! I would have liked to see the mental health aspect of his abandonment explored a little deeper, and the ending felt quite rushed. I think the resolution could have been a bit longer and it would have been great to see more of them when they were fully together. From memory this was similar to book 2 where the ending felt rushed too.
Overall an enjoyable read and I’m keeping my fingers crossed for another book set in this world so we can revisit Chase and Serena again in the future.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was first introduced to Bella North through “Score to Settle,” and I really enjoyed that book and its characters. Ever since then, I have been excited to see where this series would go next. I am always a fan of a good sports romance series, especially when it builds a strong cast of characters across multiple books. Even though I did not get a chance to read book two yet, I was still really glad to jump into this one.
One thing I appreciated right away is that I did not feel lost at all by skipping the previous installment. Both main characters were introduced earlier in the series, so it was nice to already have a bit of familiarity with them. This story also includes two of my favorite tropes, friends to lovers and fake relationship, which is always a winning combination for me. Watching their dynamic shift from friendship into something deeper was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Chase is one of those characters that is just easy to like from the start. He had a warmth and steadiness that made him very easy to root for. Serena took a little longer to grow on me, but by the end, I was definitely invested in her as well. I especially enjoyed their friendship and the foundation it gave their relationship. That connection made the emotional moments feel more genuine and earned.
There were a couple of things that kept this from being a full five-star read for me. Without getting into too much detail, I did find myself wishing for a bit more background in certain areas, and I would have loved a slightly more expanded epilogue. And on a lighter note, I still cannot quite get on board with the NFL team names, but that is just a personal preference.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It had great tropes, likable characters, and a story that kept me engaged. I am definitely still interested in this series and look forward to going back to read book two and seeing what comes next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
One thing I appreciated right away is that I did not feel lost at all by skipping the previous installment. Both main characters were introduced earlier in the series, so it was nice to already have a bit of familiarity with them. This story also includes two of my favorite tropes, friends to lovers and fake relationship, which is always a winning combination for me. Watching their dynamic shift from friendship into something deeper was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Chase is one of those characters that is just easy to like from the start. He had a warmth and steadiness that made him very easy to root for. Serena took a little longer to grow on me, but by the end, I was definitely invested in her as well. I especially enjoyed their friendship and the foundation it gave their relationship. That connection made the emotional moments feel more genuine and earned.
There were a couple of things that kept this from being a full five-star read for me. Without getting into too much detail, I did find myself wishing for a bit more background in certain areas, and I would have loved a slightly more expanded epilogue. And on a lighter note, I still cannot quite get on board with the NFL team names, but that is just a personal preference.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It had great tropes, likable characters, and a story that kept me engaged. I am definitely still interested in this series and look forward to going back to read book two and seeing what comes next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Playing for Keeps
Rating: 4/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Bella North for the e-arc!
——
Tropes:
* Friends-to-lovers
* Fake dating
* Childhood best friends
* Sports romance
* Football player x cheerleader/weather forecaster
* Forced proximity
——
First off, I have read the first two books in the series and have enjoyed them both so it is safe to say that I enjoyed reading this one too! I am usually not a fan of the friends-to-lovers trope but Bella North has changed my mind! From beginning to end, there was so much angst and so many moments where I felt overwhelmed by Serena’s feelings!
Serena’s character is very relatable in the sense that she is just wants to be loved and have the dream of creating her own family. Aside from that, Serena’s character was so passionate about everything she did and never gave up when it came to helping Chase. I loved Serena and Chase’s friendship a lot. There was so many unsaid feelings between them and they just added to the angst. Since book 1, I have been interested in Chase’s history so much and let’s just say, it made me sob when everything unfolded. I cried from Chase feeling as if he doesn’t deserve a happy ending due to being abandoned by his biological parents and then when he pushed Serena away to “protect” her.
Another thing I love about this book, and series in general, is the found family aspect! The relationship between Chase and his brothers were beautiful; and Mama truly held them all together. I know I’m going to miss them all so much.
Okay, next will be a spoiler!!!!!! SPOILER WARNING.
The accidental pregnancy had me in tears because Serena always wanted to start her own family and when that happened, I just knew that Chase was going to walk away because he wasn’t in the right mind/ready. This caused so much pain but I loved every bit of it. And my girl Serena, you gave in too fast to him when he wanted to come back! I needed more from Chase!
Overall, loved and adored the book and series!
Rating: 4/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Bella North for the e-arc!
——
Tropes:
* Friends-to-lovers
* Fake dating
* Childhood best friends
* Sports romance
* Football player x cheerleader/weather forecaster
* Forced proximity
——
First off, I have read the first two books in the series and have enjoyed them both so it is safe to say that I enjoyed reading this one too! I am usually not a fan of the friends-to-lovers trope but Bella North has changed my mind! From beginning to end, there was so much angst and so many moments where I felt overwhelmed by Serena’s feelings!
Serena’s character is very relatable in the sense that she is just wants to be loved and have the dream of creating her own family. Aside from that, Serena’s character was so passionate about everything she did and never gave up when it came to helping Chase. I loved Serena and Chase’s friendship a lot. There was so many unsaid feelings between them and they just added to the angst. Since book 1, I have been interested in Chase’s history so much and let’s just say, it made me sob when everything unfolded. I cried from Chase feeling as if he doesn’t deserve a happy ending due to being abandoned by his biological parents and then when he pushed Serena away to “protect” her.
Another thing I love about this book, and series in general, is the found family aspect! The relationship between Chase and his brothers were beautiful; and Mama truly held them all together. I know I’m going to miss them all so much.
Okay, next will be a spoiler!!!!!! SPOILER WARNING.
The accidental pregnancy had me in tears because Serena always wanted to start her own family and when that happened, I just knew that Chase was going to walk away because he wasn’t in the right mind/ready. This caused so much pain but I loved every bit of it. And my girl Serena, you gave in too fast to him when he wanted to come back! I needed more from Chase!
Overall, loved and adored the book and series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After reading the first two books in the series, I was so excited to jump into this story because I wanted to learn more about Chase, as I could tell he was dealing with some inner challenges, and I wanted to dive deeper into those. I felt like Chase was such an interesting character and great MMC because he had golden retriever energy, but also deep down was dealing with feelings of being left and did not deserve the love his brothers and their wives had. But he always had someone by his side, his best friend, Serena. She was a strong, independent FMC who knew what she wanted out of a relationship. I love her so much, and how she was always there for everyone, but also knew what she wanted out of her own life.
Their friendship was perfect; they both were there for each other and always there to support without crossing the line (even if they both wanted to). But when Chase is swarmed by every single female in Denver because he is the hottest bachelor in town, and Serena's ex won't leave her alone, Chase and Serena decide to fake date to hopefully help solve both their love life problems. I love a fake dating story, and even better, this is a friends-to-lovers, which I love even more. As sometimes the timelines can feel fast in these romances, but because they both know each other so well, that was not an issue. I loved that they both knew that they were crossing a line, but after fake dating, taking the plunge did not seem as scary.
I don't love a third-act breakup, but I think this one was done very well and made sense with the rest of the story. The twist at the end I was not expecting but loved so much, and just made the whole story come together so well. I do wish we got some more information on how the football team does with the rest of their season, but that is just because I love football
This whole series is really fun to read, and I am happy I read the first two books before this one, but this would also make a great standalone!
Their friendship was perfect; they both were there for each other and always there to support without crossing the line (even if they both wanted to). But when Chase is swarmed by every single female in Denver because he is the hottest bachelor in town, and Serena's ex won't leave her alone, Chase and Serena decide to fake date to hopefully help solve both their love life problems. I love a fake dating story, and even better, this is a friends-to-lovers, which I love even more. As sometimes the timelines can feel fast in these romances, but because they both know each other so well, that was not an issue. I loved that they both knew that they were crossing a line, but after fake dating, taking the plunge did not seem as scary.
I don't love a third-act breakup, but I think this one was done very well and made sense with the rest of the story. The twist at the end I was not expecting but loved so much, and just made the whole story come together so well. I do wish we got some more information on how the football team does with the rest of their season, but that is just because I love football
This whole series is really fun to read, and I am happy I read the first two books before this one, but this would also make a great standalone!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Although he is the star quarterback of the Denver Stormhawks, and has the best family he could ask for, Chase has never been able to get over the fact that his birth parents abandonned him before he was 2 years old. Determined he wouldn’t repeat their mistakes, he has made it clear that a family is not in the cards for him, happiest to just be the fun uncle to his sibling’s kids. Despite this, his best friend has been standing by his side since they were 9 years old. As someone who knows him better than anyone else, she has been his one constant over the years. When his lack of love life becomes a hashtag, with women throwing themselves at his feet, determined to be the next Mrs Sullivan, he is at his wits end.
Serena has always dreamed of a large family and an epic love, and while at one point she thought she might find that with Cjase, he made it clear that he doesn’t want the same things, and so she has forced herself to move on. When her controlling ex refuses to take no as an answer, Chase’s sister in law suggests that they pretend to date, to help get her ex, and the fans off both their backs. While on the surface the plan seems easy, just adding a little PDA to their already daily time spent together, Serena fears what will happen if she reopens that box on her feelings that she hid away so many years ago.
I received an early copy of this book from NetGalley, and like the other ones in this series, I absolutely loved it! Chase and Serena were constants in the first two books, and were basically in an abstinent relationship all along, but adding the physical element to the mix opened a whole other can of worms. I love how Chase is only able to be vulnerable with Serena, with her being his safe space with her presence alone, never trying to fix things for him. Although her feelings for him were made evident in the prologue, I enjoyed watching him slowly figure out that there could be more to their relationship than they’ve had in the past two decades.
Serena has always dreamed of a large family and an epic love, and while at one point she thought she might find that with Cjase, he made it clear that he doesn’t want the same things, and so she has forced herself to move on. When her controlling ex refuses to take no as an answer, Chase’s sister in law suggests that they pretend to date, to help get her ex, and the fans off both their backs. While on the surface the plan seems easy, just adding a little PDA to their already daily time spent together, Serena fears what will happen if she reopens that box on her feelings that she hid away so many years ago.
I received an early copy of this book from NetGalley, and like the other ones in this series, I absolutely loved it! Chase and Serena were constants in the first two books, and were basically in an abstinent relationship all along, but adding the physical element to the mix opened a whole other can of worms. I love how Chase is only able to be vulnerable with Serena, with her being his safe space with her presence alone, never trying to fix things for him. Although her feelings for him were made evident in the prologue, I enjoyed watching him slowly figure out that there could be more to their relationship than they’ve had in the past two decades.
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