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Rock City Renegades #5
Clock Play
Not yet published
Expected 27 Aug 26AUSTIN
All I ever wanted was to play football. I made it my life, sacrificing romantic relationships, figuring I’d have all the time in the world after I hung up my cleats for good. But here I am: in my late thirties, single, and ready to accept that I may never have a family of my own. But everything changes the moment I lay eyes on Paris Bellamy—the beautiful, strong, captivating single mother of three who’s more than ten years my junior.
I’m supposed to be coaching her sons and working alongside her at the Renegades facility, but when my cravings to care for her become too incessant to ignore, I find myself on her doorstep, desperate to be let in.
She wants to find herself after years of being torn down by her toxic ex. I’m determined to show her just how priceless she is, but can I be the man she needs? Or will I be left to go on without the woman and children who’ve quickly become the best part of my days?
PARIS
Being married with a baby before having a high school diploma certainly wasn’t what I had planned for my life. Neither was being a divorced mother of three at twenty-six years old, but that’s exactly where I ended up. Now, as the brand-new administrative assistant to the owner of the Rock City Renegades, I’m finally excited to be standing on my own after relying on others for far too long.
The last thing I expected was to develop a crush on my sons’ football coach, retired Renegades quarterback, Austin Baker. Unfortunately, his bright blue eyes and unyielding charm pulled me under at first sight, and now he’s showing me what it’s like to be cared for in ways I never thought I was worthy of.
My kids adore him, and I’m falling fast, but am I enough to keep a man like Austin Baker happy? Or has my past broken me so badly that I have nothing left to offer?
All I ever wanted was to play football. I made it my life, sacrificing romantic relationships, figuring I’d have all the time in the world after I hung up my cleats for good. But here I am: in my late thirties, single, and ready to accept that I may never have a family of my own. But everything changes the moment I lay eyes on Paris Bellamy—the beautiful, strong, captivating single mother of three who’s more than ten years my junior.
I’m supposed to be coaching her sons and working alongside her at the Renegades facility, but when my cravings to care for her become too incessant to ignore, I find myself on her doorstep, desperate to be let in.
She wants to find herself after years of being torn down by her toxic ex. I’m determined to show her just how priceless she is, but can I be the man she needs? Or will I be left to go on without the woman and children who’ve quickly become the best part of my days?
PARIS
Being married with a baby before having a high school diploma certainly wasn’t what I had planned for my life. Neither was being a divorced mother of three at twenty-six years old, but that’s exactly where I ended up. Now, as the brand-new administrative assistant to the owner of the Rock City Renegades, I’m finally excited to be standing on my own after relying on others for far too long.
The last thing I expected was to develop a crush on my sons’ football coach, retired Renegades quarterback, Austin Baker. Unfortunately, his bright blue eyes and unyielding charm pulled me under at first sight, and now he’s showing me what it’s like to be cared for in ways I never thought I was worthy of.
My kids adore him, and I’m falling fast, but am I enough to keep a man like Austin Baker happy? Or has my past broken me so badly that I have nothing left to offer?
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication August 27, 2026
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August 19, 2026
✨ARC Book Review✨
This was such a sweet romance. I was quite surprised by the diversity in C.L. Rose’s writing. I recently read Red Zone, and this book has such a different vibe.
Austin is set to be the new coach of the youth football team, which just so happens to include Paris’s son. They work together and see each other frequently at practices. Austin ends up finding ways to be helpful to Paris around the house, etc. Eventually, they both start to feel there’s more here than just friendship.
I really liked Austin. I mean, he’s legit a catch. No notes. He always put Paris first, even when it was a new friendship. I loved how sensitive he was during conversations about intimacy and exploring new things. Honestly, the man never missed.
Paris has a lot on her shoulders. I thought she was, at times, self sabotaging, but she also has more than just her own feelings to think about. I felt sympathetic toward her discussions about purity culture and being made to feel like she had to do things in life a certain way. I can sympathize with her insecurities. I felt like Austin was so nurturing in helping her embrace her own body. Those moments were very endearing.
I very much liked the range in C.L. Rose’s writing. The intimacy scenes were so hot, but the book overall felt nurturing and cozy. A lot like Austin’s energy, you always knew he would have Paris’s back, and you could just feel that throughout the book.
This was such a sweet romance. I was quite surprised by the diversity in C.L. Rose’s writing. I recently read Red Zone, and this book has such a different vibe.
Austin is set to be the new coach of the youth football team, which just so happens to include Paris’s son. They work together and see each other frequently at practices. Austin ends up finding ways to be helpful to Paris around the house, etc. Eventually, they both start to feel there’s more here than just friendship.
I really liked Austin. I mean, he’s legit a catch. No notes. He always put Paris first, even when it was a new friendship. I loved how sensitive he was during conversations about intimacy and exploring new things. Honestly, the man never missed.
Paris has a lot on her shoulders. I thought she was, at times, self sabotaging, but she also has more than just her own feelings to think about. I felt sympathetic toward her discussions about purity culture and being made to feel like she had to do things in life a certain way. I can sympathize with her insecurities. I felt like Austin was so nurturing in helping her embrace her own body. Those moments were very endearing.
I very much liked the range in C.L. Rose’s writing. The intimacy scenes were so hot, but the book overall felt nurturing and cozy. A lot like Austin’s energy, you always knew he would have Paris’s back, and you could just feel that throughout the book.
August 16, 2026
Clock Play by CL Rose eARC Review 💜
10/10 no notes. Perfection.
Candice knew we have been waiting for Austin’s story and my gosh, did she deliver. He is hands down my favorite MMC that she has ever written and that is saying something.
There is just something about this story that was so sweet and beautiful, I really couldn’t get enough. It is such a real representation about opening yourself up to love after betrayal and loss of trust.
Austin and Paris are truly a perfect match. Their chemistry is insane and his immediate love for her children had me swooning. He is a caretaker through and through and when Paris finally lets him in, their love is something so unique and powerful.
I’m obsessed. I don’t think I can say enough good things about this book. And also, the spice is immaculate just like all of her books. Austin lets Paris explore her sexuality after it being something she was ashamed of for her entire life and it’s so empowering to witness.
What to expect:
🏈 Age Gap
🧸 Single Mom/Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
🧸 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
🧸 Service Dom
Thank you so much CL Rose for the arc!
10/10 no notes. Perfection.
Candice knew we have been waiting for Austin’s story and my gosh, did she deliver. He is hands down my favorite MMC that she has ever written and that is saying something.
There is just something about this story that was so sweet and beautiful, I really couldn’t get enough. It is such a real representation about opening yourself up to love after betrayal and loss of trust.
Austin and Paris are truly a perfect match. Their chemistry is insane and his immediate love for her children had me swooning. He is a caretaker through and through and when Paris finally lets him in, their love is something so unique and powerful.
I’m obsessed. I don’t think I can say enough good things about this book. And also, the spice is immaculate just like all of her books. Austin lets Paris explore her sexuality after it being something she was ashamed of for her entire life and it’s so empowering to witness.
What to expect:
🏈 Age Gap
🧸 Single Mom/Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
🧸 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
🧸 Service Dom
Thank you so much CL Rose for the arc!
August 21, 2026
The way I loved this book with every fibre of my being 🥹
August 17, 2026
4.5⭐️ Daddy Austin is in the house and boy is he a walking green flag! This man just wants to find a woman who he loves, can take care of, and start a family with. And when Paris enters his world, he feels an immediate connection. Despite her being strong, independent, and wanting to make it on her own, seeing her let Austin help was so sweet. And this man truly is perfect with her kids - like instant swoon because he does not hesitate to love and care for them as well. They truly are perfect for each other and I loved their chemistry!
What to expect:
🏈 age gap
🏈 single mom
🏈 football coach
🏈 found family
🏈 caretaking
🏈 service dom
What to expect:
🏈 age gap
🏈 single mom
🏈 football coach
🏈 found family
🏈 caretaking
🏈 service dom
August 14, 2026
Daddy Austin 🙌. This man was born to be a daddy in every sense of the word. The way he was with Paris and her kids was literally everything. To say that I throughly enjoyed this book would be an understatement because what do you mean this man is a service dom to a woman who was raised to serve her husband? My thought when reading this was Daddy Austin has entered the chat and wants to serve Paris, chefs kiss.
Paris is newly divorced with three children and has her first job ever as Mr. Grant’s secretary. In walks Daddy Austin as not only her brothers friend but her sons football coach. Paris had no chances of not falling for this man in the least bit (see: grey sweatpants).
Austin is literally the most perfect partner and role model for her children. We love a straight forward king and reading her spicy book to her over the phone, 😮💨. This man was sweet, considerate and had a filthy mouth. The way that Candice wrote Austin, the wait was definitely worth it. Will never be over Kingsley Hotel Club😂.
I love reading Paris’ journey of finding her true self again with the help of Austin. So amazing to read a woman overcoming all of her past and giving a new life a chance, not only for her children but for herself speaks volumes. And her getting a found family in the process, I just wanted to hug her.
One trope I love is a single parent because the bound the children have with the person that comes into their life by choice always gets me right in the feels. Chapter 37, Candice, you know what you did and my ovaries will never be the same after. All three of Paris’ kids stole my heart from the beginning and all I wanted to say was f*ck you Braxton and that Austin was such a sucker for these kids.
I love how every series, Candice writes these incredible found families that we get to see grow with each couple. This one was so special because I feel like everyone wanted Austin to find his person so all hands were on deck. The way every one just swooped in to help, just made my heart melt.
Thank you to C. L. Rose for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
✨Age gap
✨Single mom x coach
✨Caretaking
✨Workplace romance
✨Service dom
✨Found family
Paris is newly divorced with three children and has her first job ever as Mr. Grant’s secretary. In walks Daddy Austin as not only her brothers friend but her sons football coach. Paris had no chances of not falling for this man in the least bit (see: grey sweatpants).
Austin is literally the most perfect partner and role model for her children. We love a straight forward king and reading her spicy book to her over the phone, 😮💨. This man was sweet, considerate and had a filthy mouth. The way that Candice wrote Austin, the wait was definitely worth it. Will never be over Kingsley Hotel Club😂.
I love reading Paris’ journey of finding her true self again with the help of Austin. So amazing to read a woman overcoming all of her past and giving a new life a chance, not only for her children but for herself speaks volumes. And her getting a found family in the process, I just wanted to hug her.
One trope I love is a single parent because the bound the children have with the person that comes into their life by choice always gets me right in the feels. Chapter 37, Candice, you know what you did and my ovaries will never be the same after. All three of Paris’ kids stole my heart from the beginning and all I wanted to say was f*ck you Braxton and that Austin was such a sucker for these kids.
I love how every series, Candice writes these incredible found families that we get to see grow with each couple. This one was so special because I feel like everyone wanted Austin to find his person so all hands were on deck. The way every one just swooped in to help, just made my heart melt.
Thank you to C. L. Rose for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
✨Age gap
✨Single mom x coach
✨Caretaking
✨Workplace romance
✨Service dom
✨Found family
August 18, 2026
I’ll be the very first person to admit that the single parent (mom or dad) trope is not my favourite.. stresses me out 😂 but ONCE AGAIN if C.L. Rose writes it, I’m reading it and BOY OH BOY did I LOVEEE Paris and Austin! I mean, the mouth on this man?! Holy hell. And seeing this strong, powerful, beautiful woman come into her own and discover herself? Just stunning. I couldn’t have imagined it any better than what it was! FULL RTC!
————————————
I don’t think these two could have given me any more than I got. They quite literally are a match made in heaven and if you believe in soul mates.. these two are IT! A single mom of 3 whose ex husband is a total loser paired up with a capable, gorgeous, older man who wants nothing more than to GIVE, GIVE, GIVE?? I mean, come on.
Candi can make a fan out of me for basically every single trope. I told my friend, this book played out like a TV show in my head the entire time. It was so enjoyable, easy, and fun to imagine. One of those books that just leaves you smiling wide at the end. Austin is THE MAN. He has the best personality, the sweetest, kindest soul, and Paris just counted her lucky stars to be with him, and him with her.
God bless these two for handling parenting with such ease and relate-ability. God bless these three kids for their fun personalities that made reading them so much fun. And god bless Candi for bringing a lot of struggles that parents go through to light. I could relate to some of Paris’ thoughts and feelings so much throughout this story. I too have had leftover Dino Nuggets and a glass of wine for dinner a time or two 😜
I’m sad to see this series that I’ve loved so much for the past year come to an end, but as always I’m so exited to see what Candi comes up with next for us all. Lots more kinks. Lots more spice. And lots more sports!
————————————
I don’t think these two could have given me any more than I got. They quite literally are a match made in heaven and if you believe in soul mates.. these two are IT! A single mom of 3 whose ex husband is a total loser paired up with a capable, gorgeous, older man who wants nothing more than to GIVE, GIVE, GIVE?? I mean, come on.
Candi can make a fan out of me for basically every single trope. I told my friend, this book played out like a TV show in my head the entire time. It was so enjoyable, easy, and fun to imagine. One of those books that just leaves you smiling wide at the end. Austin is THE MAN. He has the best personality, the sweetest, kindest soul, and Paris just counted her lucky stars to be with him, and him with her.
God bless these two for handling parenting with such ease and relate-ability. God bless these three kids for their fun personalities that made reading them so much fun. And god bless Candi for bringing a lot of struggles that parents go through to light. I could relate to some of Paris’ thoughts and feelings so much throughout this story. I too have had leftover Dino Nuggets and a glass of wine for dinner a time or two 😜
I’m sad to see this series that I’ve loved so much for the past year come to an end, but as always I’m so exited to see what Candi comes up with next for us all. Lots more kinks. Lots more spice. And lots more sports!
August 18, 2026
eARC Review
🏈 Age Gap
🧸 Single Mom/Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
🧸 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
🧸 Service Dom
Paris Bellamy, a teenage mom who became a wife at a young age, finds her feet swept out from under her by none other than her son’s youth football coach, sweet baby Austin Baker, after divorcing her selfish, absent-father ex.
Austin…The patient sweet man that he is! Going at Paris’ speed, encouraging her to be more vocal about her wants and needs, and helping her feel confident in her 3x postpartum body-SWOON.
Paris…the supermom who overextends herself thinking she has to do it all by herself. When she lets Austin take some of the load off with his caretaking and acts of service-GAME OVER.
The spice HIT per usual with anything Candice writes!
The found family that rally for her in a time of need/emergency with the previous characters-THE BEST!
I’m so glad Austin got his HEA!
Thank you Candice for the opportunity to read early!
5⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Releases August 27th
🏈 Age Gap
🧸 Single Mom/Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
🧸 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
🧸 Service Dom
Paris Bellamy, a teenage mom who became a wife at a young age, finds her feet swept out from under her by none other than her son’s youth football coach, sweet baby Austin Baker, after divorcing her selfish, absent-father ex.
Austin…The patient sweet man that he is! Going at Paris’ speed, encouraging her to be more vocal about her wants and needs, and helping her feel confident in her 3x postpartum body-SWOON.
Paris…the supermom who overextends herself thinking she has to do it all by herself. When she lets Austin take some of the load off with his caretaking and acts of service-GAME OVER.
The spice HIT per usual with anything Candice writes!
The found family that rally for her in a time of need/emergency with the previous characters-THE BEST!
I’m so glad Austin got his HEA!
Thank you Candice for the opportunity to read early!
5⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Releases August 27th
August 22, 2026
ALLLLLL THE STARS
UGHHHH. So good
FRTC
UGHHHH. So good
FRTC
Review of advance copy received from Author
💜Clock Play💜
In the words of Bailey (Jett) James ” All I have to say is buckle up, babe. You’re in for one hell of a ride.”
I love every MMC (and FMC) that Candice writes but Daddy Austin takes the cake… two words .. Service Dom 🙌🏼
This man….. I have been so excited to see him finally get his happy ending and this could not have been a more perfect fit for him! The longing of wanting a family of his own.. uhh be stil my heart!
Paris is an amazing FMC. A recently divorced mom who was practically a single married woman raising three kids at very young age with little to no help from her spouse or family. Gosh my heart went out to her and her determination to give her kids a better life! She was raised in strict household that values purity and as someone from the south who also grew up with this type of culture I connected with easily.
Paris and Austin characters compliment each other so well! He wants to take care of her in and out of the bedroom. She wants to work and be independent but also would love to have a partner help share the load.
There were funny moments, spicy moments and tender, emotional ones that pulled at my mama heartstrings!
Things that stood out:
The care taking!! It could be bringing coffee, moving items in a storage closet so they don’t fall in her or even mowing the lawn- they might now seem big but they mattered!
That office scene!! OMG HOT AF!🌶️🥵🥵🥵 Daddy Austin the Pleasure Dom was in the building! The spice is top tier as always!!
The found family!! The girl group bringing Paris into the fold was so fun to read. I love women supporting women! The whole Renegade crew is one of my favorite groups to read about! I loved seeing side characters from the other books!
The playful banter! I honestly was grinning through most of the book!
They both have been let down by partners in the past and both have insecurities. The vulnerability and longing… whew.
Austin forming bonds with the kiddos had me tearing up and at times thinking my ovaries would explode!
I cannot recommend this book enough!! If you want to read about a man who wants to be a supportive partner and family man then look no further, Daddy Austin Baker is here to take care of you!!
🏈 Age Gap
💜 Single Mom/Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
💜 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
💜Service Dom
🏈Toys as Teammates
💜Forehead kisses
🏈 “Hey, Coach” x “Baby Girl”
SPICY Microtropes:
Toys as teamates (plug)
“Good girl”
Mutual self care
He 💦 in his pants
He reads spicy books to her
Consent King
Semi public smex
Panty stuffing
Sp!t play
Thank you to C.L. Rose and team for the ARC of Clock play! All opinions are my own.
In the words of Bailey (Jett) James ” All I have to say is buckle up, babe. You’re in for one hell of a ride.”
I love every MMC (and FMC) that Candice writes but Daddy Austin takes the cake… two words .. Service Dom 🙌🏼
This man….. I have been so excited to see him finally get his happy ending and this could not have been a more perfect fit for him! The longing of wanting a family of his own.. uhh be stil my heart!
Paris is an amazing FMC. A recently divorced mom who was practically a single married woman raising three kids at very young age with little to no help from her spouse or family. Gosh my heart went out to her and her determination to give her kids a better life! She was raised in strict household that values purity and as someone from the south who also grew up with this type of culture I connected with easily.
Paris and Austin characters compliment each other so well! He wants to take care of her in and out of the bedroom. She wants to work and be independent but also would love to have a partner help share the load.
There were funny moments, spicy moments and tender, emotional ones that pulled at my mama heartstrings!
Things that stood out:
The care taking!! It could be bringing coffee, moving items in a storage closet so they don’t fall in her or even mowing the lawn- they might now seem big but they mattered!
That office scene!! OMG HOT AF!🌶️🥵🥵🥵 Daddy Austin the Pleasure Dom was in the building! The spice is top tier as always!!
The found family!! The girl group bringing Paris into the fold was so fun to read. I love women supporting women! The whole Renegade crew is one of my favorite groups to read about! I loved seeing side characters from the other books!
The playful banter! I honestly was grinning through most of the book!
They both have been let down by partners in the past and both have insecurities. The vulnerability and longing… whew.
Austin forming bonds with the kiddos had me tearing up and at times thinking my ovaries would explode!
I cannot recommend this book enough!! If you want to read about a man who wants to be a supportive partner and family man then look no further, Daddy Austin Baker is here to take care of you!!
🏈 Age Gap
💜 Single Mom/Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
💜 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
💜Service Dom
🏈Toys as Teammates
💜Forehead kisses
🏈 “Hey, Coach” x “Baby Girl”
SPICY Microtropes:
Toys as teamates (plug)
“Good girl”
Mutual self care
He 💦 in his pants
He reads spicy books to her
Consent King
Semi public smex
Panty stuffing
Sp!t play
Thank you to C.L. Rose and team for the ARC of Clock play! All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
Dang Daddy Austin really knows how to take care of a girl. We find ourself swooning at first meeting... He picked up her tampons for her. What a man! We have a bit of a age gap here, but she's 26 and he's 38 so it doesn't count. They're out of college, it's not icky now. (That's my arbitrary standard, here. It's how I allow myself to lust after current NHL players that aren't Sidney Crosby. Don't @ me). Anyway, we see Austin yearning for what his friends had being the last of the singles in a coupled up crew. In comes his friends little sister, three kids in tow, and just the prettiest sight he's laid his eyes on - presumably. The Renegades have found their matches (minus all the redshirts we don't even know the names of)!
Well. I loved it. I loved this story Austin was so sweet, even though he got off on acts of service, I'm totally fine with that. I think my husband could take note. Obviously, every man should be a service dom. It's only fair. Maybe we'd choose less bears if more men were service doms. I digress. This story follows a single mom just breaking out of a bad marriage where both parties were too young and immature to have been married at 18. It was a bad idea and their parents shouldn't have made that happen. While she's doing better than most 26 year olds in general because of her brother's wealth, she's making a go at being on her own with her kids for the first time in her life.
Austin is dealing with what his goals after playing are. He is leaning toward coaching, but he's dealing with an eligibility issue, so he's coaching the teenyboppers for the organization. He's also dealing with the cutest kid fanboying over all his teammates meanwhile calling him out for having the most sacks. I love it. Rhys wasn't trying to be savage, but he absolutely was. I love the humor laced in between the love story and serious matters. Honestly, it's refreshing. We have a new initiates into the Jett/Bailey guess bedroom gang. Their poor guest bedroom. But at least this time it wasn't a battle of moans like it was between Emmett and Maddox. That was still wild. I love it.
Anywho, if you appreciate a giver, read this book. Austin is basically Pitbull and will give you everything, tonight. Definitely read this book. It's sweet, it's sexy, it's funny, and it's a load of fun. And don't worry, you'll have loads of it. If you don't get my meaning, I'm using innuendo. It's not that deep... but Austin is. Alright I'm done. Enjoy this. I sure did.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received and eARC from the Author/Smuthood. My opinions are my own.
Well. I loved it. I loved this story Austin was so sweet, even though he got off on acts of service, I'm totally fine with that. I think my husband could take note. Obviously, every man should be a service dom. It's only fair. Maybe we'd choose less bears if more men were service doms. I digress. This story follows a single mom just breaking out of a bad marriage where both parties were too young and immature to have been married at 18. It was a bad idea and their parents shouldn't have made that happen. While she's doing better than most 26 year olds in general because of her brother's wealth, she's making a go at being on her own with her kids for the first time in her life.
Austin is dealing with what his goals after playing are. He is leaning toward coaching, but he's dealing with an eligibility issue, so he's coaching the teenyboppers for the organization. He's also dealing with the cutest kid fanboying over all his teammates meanwhile calling him out for having the most sacks. I love it. Rhys wasn't trying to be savage, but he absolutely was. I love the humor laced in between the love story and serious matters. Honestly, it's refreshing. We have a new initiates into the Jett/Bailey guess bedroom gang. Their poor guest bedroom. But at least this time it wasn't a battle of moans like it was between Emmett and Maddox. That was still wild. I love it.
Anywho, if you appreciate a giver, read this book. Austin is basically Pitbull and will give you everything, tonight. Definitely read this book. It's sweet, it's sexy, it's funny, and it's a load of fun. And don't worry, you'll have loads of it. If you don't get my meaning, I'm using innuendo. It's not that deep... but Austin is. Alright I'm done. Enjoy this. I sure did.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I received and eARC from the Author/Smuthood. My opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book? 10/10
Out of the entire Rock City Renegades series, I think this one might actually be my favorite. And listen … I was not a huge fan of the single-mom trope. But so many authors have done it justice, and Candice absolutely nailed it with Paris and Austin.
First of all, WE FINALLY GOT OUR RETIRED FOOTBALL PLAYER HIS HAPPY ENDING. And the fact that it’s with his baseball-playing buddy’s sister?! I’m obsessed.
And THEN we get the setup for the baseball buddy’s book?!
Candace, I need it immediately.
I loved watching Paris finally come out of her shell. She married her high school sweetheart because she got pregnant, and unfortunately, he was not a good man. Worse, he never truly wanted to be a family with her. And while that would have been one thing on its own, her parents forced them into a marriage.
And before anyone says, “That doesn’t really happen.”
Yes. It absolutely does.
I thought Candice including that piece of Paris’s story was incredibly important because it shaped so much of who she became.
Then Austin comes along, and this man barely knows her, but he sees her. He doesn’t wait for her to ask. He just handles things. He takes care of her. He protects her. He wants to be there for her emotionally AND physically.
And honestly?
That is the kind of person you need in your life.
Someone who wants to take care of you because they genuinely WANT to. Not because you asked. Not because they have to. Because loving you means showing up for you.
And let me just say this because I’m right in the middle of it …
THE SPICE
Out. Of. This. World.
I’m going to say something I stand firmly behind: next to Sara Cate, I think Candice writes some of the best kink I’ve ever read. Those two are at the absolute top of my list.
And I think what makes it work so well is the emphasis on safety, trust, communication, and consent. The kink never feels disconnected from the relationship - it’s part of the trust they build with each other, and I love that.
This book is truly THAT good.
Clock Play is the final Rock City Renegades book, and Candace set us up perfectly for what’s coming next.
And I promise you …
You’re going to want to read this one.
Out of the entire Rock City Renegades series, I think this one might actually be my favorite. And listen … I was not a huge fan of the single-mom trope. But so many authors have done it justice, and Candice absolutely nailed it with Paris and Austin.
First of all, WE FINALLY GOT OUR RETIRED FOOTBALL PLAYER HIS HAPPY ENDING. And the fact that it’s with his baseball-playing buddy’s sister?! I’m obsessed.
And THEN we get the setup for the baseball buddy’s book?!
Candace, I need it immediately.
I loved watching Paris finally come out of her shell. She married her high school sweetheart because she got pregnant, and unfortunately, he was not a good man. Worse, he never truly wanted to be a family with her. And while that would have been one thing on its own, her parents forced them into a marriage.
And before anyone says, “That doesn’t really happen.”
Yes. It absolutely does.
I thought Candice including that piece of Paris’s story was incredibly important because it shaped so much of who she became.
Then Austin comes along, and this man barely knows her, but he sees her. He doesn’t wait for her to ask. He just handles things. He takes care of her. He protects her. He wants to be there for her emotionally AND physically.
And honestly?
That is the kind of person you need in your life.
Someone who wants to take care of you because they genuinely WANT to. Not because you asked. Not because they have to. Because loving you means showing up for you.
And let me just say this because I’m right in the middle of it …
THE SPICE
Out. Of. This. World.
I’m going to say something I stand firmly behind: next to Sara Cate, I think Candice writes some of the best kink I’ve ever read. Those two are at the absolute top of my list.
And I think what makes it work so well is the emphasis on safety, trust, communication, and consent. The kink never feels disconnected from the relationship - it’s part of the trust they build with each other, and I love that.
This book is truly THAT good.
Clock Play is the final Rock City Renegades book, and Candace set us up perfectly for what’s coming next.
And I promise you …
You’re going to want to read this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So I’ve started this series with Book 5… but no regrets at all, and I’ve already lined up the next C.L. Rose book in this series that I want to read. Book 4, here I come! In other words, if you’re interested in the blurb but haven’t read the other books, don’t let it stop you by any means.
This was a sweet, warm read. Paris and Austin first run into each other on Paris’s first day at her new job, when Austin helps her gather her things after she accidentally drops her bag. He then proceeds to escort her to her office and starts bringing her coffees every morning just to see her.
Not having read any C.L. Rose books before I didn’t know what to expect, but I guessed before Austin tells Paris that there’s something specific about him which means he loves to help, do things for her and, well, pleasure her. He meets Paris and immediately starts doing this throughout the book. This consistency shapes Austin’s personality, as do the internal monologues that show how interested he is in Paris and how badly he wants a family of his own, now that he’s retired from the NFL. Austin is a sweetheart and dominant in a good way, constantly wanting Paris to do well and get stronger, while realising he can’t just barge into her life.
Paris is great: she’s taking back her power after getting divorced from the ultimate slime ball (who we meet a couple of times) and is starting her first(!) paying job after being a stay-at-home mum for years. Although there are a few work-based scenes (the supply cupboard plays an important role 😉), her work doesn’t get described in much detail. Paris juggles her work, her children, making friends and seeing Austin, showing how much a single parent has to deal with to keep things rolling.
When Paris and Austin get together Austin really allows Paris to discover her wants and needs, while gently pushing her to explore. Given how ashamed she was after her awful ex-husband, this is empowering to read.
I’m not normally a single-mum tripe fan, but this is seriously a good one. Definitely recommended!
Thanks to C.L. Rose and The Smuthood for the ARC.
This was a sweet, warm read. Paris and Austin first run into each other on Paris’s first day at her new job, when Austin helps her gather her things after she accidentally drops her bag. He then proceeds to escort her to her office and starts bringing her coffees every morning just to see her.
Not having read any C.L. Rose books before I didn’t know what to expect, but I guessed before Austin tells Paris that there’s something specific about him which means he loves to help, do things for her and, well, pleasure her. He meets Paris and immediately starts doing this throughout the book. This consistency shapes Austin’s personality, as do the internal monologues that show how interested he is in Paris and how badly he wants a family of his own, now that he’s retired from the NFL. Austin is a sweetheart and dominant in a good way, constantly wanting Paris to do well and get stronger, while realising he can’t just barge into her life.
Paris is great: she’s taking back her power after getting divorced from the ultimate slime ball (who we meet a couple of times) and is starting her first(!) paying job after being a stay-at-home mum for years. Although there are a few work-based scenes (the supply cupboard plays an important role 😉), her work doesn’t get described in much detail. Paris juggles her work, her children, making friends and seeing Austin, showing how much a single parent has to deal with to keep things rolling.
When Paris and Austin get together Austin really allows Paris to discover her wants and needs, while gently pushing her to explore. Given how ashamed she was after her awful ex-husband, this is empowering to read.
I’m not normally a single-mum tripe fan, but this is seriously a good one. Definitely recommended!
Thanks to C.L. Rose and The Smuthood for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance reader copy of this book, and I’m delighted to share my honest review!
Paris is a divorced mom of three. Never did she imagine that after getting pregnant in high school and being forced to marry the father by her parents, she would end up divorced at 26. Thankfully, her brother, a talented professional baseball player, has always been there for her. So, when Paris finally decides to leave her husband and start a new life, he is right there to help. Using his connections, he gets her a job with the Renegades—and that’s where this new chapter begins.
Austin is a former Renegades player. A talented athlete, he is now waiting for his opportunity to become a coach. In the meantime, he helps coach kids for the Renegades program. When he realizes that the woman he hasn’t been able to take his eyes off at the office is also the mother of two of the boys on his team, he knows he needs to be careful. The attraction is there, but he initially keeps his distance. As he slowly allows himself to open up to the possibility of being with Paris, she welcomes it—and their relationship begins to grow.
Austin is a service Dom and an absolute green flag of a man. He starts by helping Paris around her yard, supporting her with the kids, and taking care of her whenever she needs it. And when he even takes care of her needs while she’s curled up in bed reading a spicy book… that definitely helps break down some of the tension between them!
Paris’s resilience, especially despite her upbringing and a useless ex-husband, made her such a fun character to read. I loved watching her find her independence, gain confidence, and build a life that was truly her own. And then there’s Austin—a hot former baseball player who is more than ready to dote on both Paris and her kids. Austin has always wanted children, and while they may not be biologically his, he embraces Paris’s kids wholeheartedly and becomes an important part of their lives. Watching him step into that role was one of my favorite parts of their relationship.
Paris is a divorced mom of three. Never did she imagine that after getting pregnant in high school and being forced to marry the father by her parents, she would end up divorced at 26. Thankfully, her brother, a talented professional baseball player, has always been there for her. So, when Paris finally decides to leave her husband and start a new life, he is right there to help. Using his connections, he gets her a job with the Renegades—and that’s where this new chapter begins.
Austin is a former Renegades player. A talented athlete, he is now waiting for his opportunity to become a coach. In the meantime, he helps coach kids for the Renegades program. When he realizes that the woman he hasn’t been able to take his eyes off at the office is also the mother of two of the boys on his team, he knows he needs to be careful. The attraction is there, but he initially keeps his distance. As he slowly allows himself to open up to the possibility of being with Paris, she welcomes it—and their relationship begins to grow.
Austin is a service Dom and an absolute green flag of a man. He starts by helping Paris around her yard, supporting her with the kids, and taking care of her whenever she needs it. And when he even takes care of her needs while she’s curled up in bed reading a spicy book… that definitely helps break down some of the tension between them!
Paris’s resilience, especially despite her upbringing and a useless ex-husband, made her such a fun character to read. I loved watching her find her independence, gain confidence, and build a life that was truly her own. And then there’s Austin—a hot former baseball player who is more than ready to dote on both Paris and her kids. Austin has always wanted children, and while they may not be biologically his, he embraces Paris’s kids wholeheartedly and becomes an important part of their lives. Watching him step into that role was one of my favorite parts of their relationship.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
This was the sweetest way to end what has been a fantastic series! This is book 5 of the Rock City Renegades series and as always it brought all the feels, the laughs, the spice, and of course… Daddy Austin. It’s definitely bittersweet because I was absolutely not ready to say goodbye to this series, but what a beautiful ending!
Austin is the man I’ve been waiting for. He’s older, HOT, protective, and a total caretaker (with the kink to boot), which, frankly, is my jam. He had to retire football due to injury but has spent his time supporting his team and friends along the way and thought when he retired he'd settle down and find a family, but he's not found the ONE until...along comes Paris. Paris is his best friend’s sister, a single mum of three, and after Austin helps her land a job at the Renegades facility, they suddenly have to work together while being ridiculously attracted to each other. And Austin with her kids, was everything! The way he cares for those three like they’re his own, and watching him fall for Paris AND her children had my ovaries doing cartwheels. Paris has been through a lot with her neglectful ex and is trying to rebuild her confidence and figure out who she is again. I loved watching Austin show her exactly how worthy she is of love, care and happiness. Their relationship was just so damn SWEET… with plenty of heat to balance it out. As always, Candice gave us the perfect mix of heartfelt moments, hilarious banter, swoony romance and spice that had me fanning myself. I'm just going to say, 'the desk scene' I was hooked! The way I love this team both the guys and the gals, this girl group are the best, the way the accept Paris and her kids into the fold was gorgeous, and a shoutout to the cutest kiddos, Rhys, Rowan and Lennon had my whole heart.
I really didn’t want this series to end, but if we had to say goodbye to the Rock City Renegades, Clock was one hell of a way to do it.
This was the sweetest way to end what has been a fantastic series! This is book 5 of the Rock City Renegades series and as always it brought all the feels, the laughs, the spice, and of course… Daddy Austin. It’s definitely bittersweet because I was absolutely not ready to say goodbye to this series, but what a beautiful ending!
Austin is the man I’ve been waiting for. He’s older, HOT, protective, and a total caretaker (with the kink to boot), which, frankly, is my jam. He had to retire football due to injury but has spent his time supporting his team and friends along the way and thought when he retired he'd settle down and find a family, but he's not found the ONE until...along comes Paris. Paris is his best friend’s sister, a single mum of three, and after Austin helps her land a job at the Renegades facility, they suddenly have to work together while being ridiculously attracted to each other. And Austin with her kids, was everything! The way he cares for those three like they’re his own, and watching him fall for Paris AND her children had my ovaries doing cartwheels. Paris has been through a lot with her neglectful ex and is trying to rebuild her confidence and figure out who she is again. I loved watching Austin show her exactly how worthy she is of love, care and happiness. Their relationship was just so damn SWEET… with plenty of heat to balance it out. As always, Candice gave us the perfect mix of heartfelt moments, hilarious banter, swoony romance and spice that had me fanning myself. I'm just going to say, 'the desk scene' I was hooked! The way I love this team both the guys and the gals, this girl group are the best, the way the accept Paris and her kids into the fold was gorgeous, and a shoutout to the cutest kiddos, Rhys, Rowan and Lennon had my whole heart.
I really didn’t want this series to end, but if we had to say goodbye to the Rock City Renegades, Clock was one hell of a way to do it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
MF Age Gap / Football Romance
“Yes, Coach”
Amazing read!!! Oh I’ve been waiting on Austin’s story since I met him…. And his relationship journey did not disappoint ❤️❤️ He is perfection and his woman Paris couldn’t have been better suited for him. Her ‘baggage’ (her words) was everything he was longing for.
‘We can be friends who have nicknames and hang out in barely lit closets for way longer than necessary because one of us is developing a weird protective streak over the other. People do it all the time. Right?’
This was the perfect kind of slow burn, insta lust on both side and they both proceeded with caution / tried to fight the attraction. While not overly spicy, what was there was ‘chef’s kiss’. There were parts I was in tears because it was either so sweet or heartbreaking.. the kids were adorable and ‘Coach’ was amazing with them.
The Renegade’s family came through once again and I’m so sad to see this series end.
But I am excited for the new series to begin, first with a Christmas novella then with Memphis’ story
No cheating, no OWD, with a HEA
“Bless those smutty books for teaching you to talk like that.”
* Age Gap 38 / 26
* Single Mom of 3 (8,6&18 months)
* Friends’s Sister
* Workplace
* Retired NFL Quarterback
* Kids Football Coach
* Caretaker
* Service Dom
* Sexual Exploitation / Awakening
* Found Family
* Caramel Cappuccinos & the Storage Closet
“I’ve given up on trying to make sense of it, Baby Girl,” he says, huffing a soft laugh. “All I know is that I want to be the one who takes care of you when you forget to take care of yourself.”
“You have every right to feel your feelings, Paris. And I don’t blame you for reacting the way you did, when your intention all along was to protect the kids. I’ll move at whatever pace you’re comfortable with, and I’ll never push you into anything you aren’t ready for.”
“Yes, Coach”
Amazing read!!! Oh I’ve been waiting on Austin’s story since I met him…. And his relationship journey did not disappoint ❤️❤️ He is perfection and his woman Paris couldn’t have been better suited for him. Her ‘baggage’ (her words) was everything he was longing for.
‘We can be friends who have nicknames and hang out in barely lit closets for way longer than necessary because one of us is developing a weird protective streak over the other. People do it all the time. Right?’
This was the perfect kind of slow burn, insta lust on both side and they both proceeded with caution / tried to fight the attraction. While not overly spicy, what was there was ‘chef’s kiss’. There were parts I was in tears because it was either so sweet or heartbreaking.. the kids were adorable and ‘Coach’ was amazing with them.
The Renegade’s family came through once again and I’m so sad to see this series end.
But I am excited for the new series to begin, first with a Christmas novella then with Memphis’ story
No cheating, no OWD, with a HEA
“Bless those smutty books for teaching you to talk like that.”
* Age Gap 38 / 26
* Single Mom of 3 (8,6&18 months)
* Friends’s Sister
* Workplace
* Retired NFL Quarterback
* Kids Football Coach
* Caretaker
* Service Dom
* Sexual Exploitation / Awakening
* Found Family
* Caramel Cappuccinos & the Storage Closet
“I’ve given up on trying to make sense of it, Baby Girl,” he says, huffing a soft laugh. “All I know is that I want to be the one who takes care of you when you forget to take care of yourself.”
“You have every right to feel your feelings, Paris. And I don’t blame you for reacting the way you did, when your intention all along was to protect the kids. I’ll move at whatever pace you’re comfortable with, and I’ll never push you into anything you aren’t ready for.”
Review of advance copy
4.75⭐️
Right out of the gate I will tell you I was NOT ready for Austin Baker & I sure as he'll wasn't ready for DADDY Austin. Yes, I have seen him in the other books but he never really stood out but not in a bad way. BUT I am eating my words now just like he did Paris🙌. I absolutely fell in love with him.
Dedication:
To the parents who spend so much time being everything to everyone else that they forget about themselves...
Daddy Austin is here.
Within the first chapter I was already tearing up and it wasn't the last time I done that. It is just something about a single mom that gets me every time but add a man like Austin and I am done for.
There is so much I can say about this book but the biggest thing is: Paris was a single mom with 0 help except her brother (baseball player) but with his job he isn't there much. She stopped being Paris Bellamy the woman. She turned into Paris Bellamy divorced and single mom to 3 kids. Austin was there to help her find her confidence and have someone to lean on.
Tropes:
💜 Banter
🏈 Age Gap (38 x 26)
💜 Single Mom (3 kids)
🏈 Workplace Romance
💜 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
💜 Service Dom
🏈 “Coach” x “Baby Girl”
💜 One tired momma
If those aren't convincing enough then maybe these will:
🔥 Consent King
🥵 “Good girl”
🔥 Toys as teammates
🔥 He's an eater
🥵 Snow balling
🔥 He reads to her
🥵 Pulic-ish spicey times
🔥 He may come💦 in his pants
🥵 Peachy play
🔥 He's a big boy
🥵 There is a panty stuffing scene that was amazing
Thank you C.L. Rose for the early copy. Above are my honest thoughts.
Right out of the gate I will tell you I was NOT ready for Austin Baker & I sure as he'll wasn't ready for DADDY Austin. Yes, I have seen him in the other books but he never really stood out but not in a bad way. BUT I am eating my words now just like he did Paris🙌. I absolutely fell in love with him.
Dedication:
To the parents who spend so much time being everything to everyone else that they forget about themselves...
Daddy Austin is here.
Within the first chapter I was already tearing up and it wasn't the last time I done that. It is just something about a single mom that gets me every time but add a man like Austin and I am done for.
There is so much I can say about this book but the biggest thing is: Paris was a single mom with 0 help except her brother (baseball player) but with his job he isn't there much. She stopped being Paris Bellamy the woman. She turned into Paris Bellamy divorced and single mom to 3 kids. Austin was there to help her find her confidence and have someone to lean on.
Tropes:
💜 Banter
🏈 Age Gap (38 x 26)
💜 Single Mom (3 kids)
🏈 Workplace Romance
💜 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
💜 Service Dom
🏈 “Coach” x “Baby Girl”
💜 One tired momma
If those aren't convincing enough then maybe these will:
🔥 Consent King
🥵 “Good girl”
🔥 Toys as teammates
🔥 He's an eater
🥵 Snow balling
🔥 He reads to her
🥵 Pulic-ish spicey times
🔥 He may come💦 in his pants
🥵 Peachy play
🔥 He's a big boy
🥵 There is a panty stuffing scene that was amazing
Thank you C.L. Rose for the early copy. Above are my honest thoughts.
August 22, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Austin was soooo worth the wait!
As a mom myself, single mom romances always hit different for me. CL Rose did a fantastic job exhibiting the reality of a lot of moms out there - we are overworked, overstimulated, and overtired 🤣 the way Austin stepped up, in more ways than one, made my heart so happy.
I truly related heavily to Paris in her struggles with her self esteem, the mom guilt, and the burnout of being the a single (or default) parent. Being a mom is tough and her story really touched my heart. She truly had such a rough start to motherhood, but I am glad she was able to rise from the ashes and find a community of amazing people to surround herself with.
Austin, Austin, Austin…. I freaking LOVE that man. He seriously stepped up for both Paris and the kids and he was the perfect man for the job. All of the little things he did for Paris, whether it was to make her smile or just give her some reprieve, absolutely melted my heart. The MOUTH on his man?! The FREAK of this man?! Oh yes. It was amazing. No notes.
The found family in all of CL Rose’s books is incredible and this one definitely did not disappoint, that epilogue had me CRYING.
While I am sad this series is coming to an end, that prologue has me ready for what’s coming next!
Thank you so much CL Rose for the opportunity to receive and review this eARC. All thoughts & opinions are my own 💗
Tropes:
- Age Gap
- Single Mom/Coach
- Workplace Romance
- Caretaking
- Found Family
- Service Dom
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Austin was soooo worth the wait!
As a mom myself, single mom romances always hit different for me. CL Rose did a fantastic job exhibiting the reality of a lot of moms out there - we are overworked, overstimulated, and overtired 🤣 the way Austin stepped up, in more ways than one, made my heart so happy.
I truly related heavily to Paris in her struggles with her self esteem, the mom guilt, and the burnout of being the a single (or default) parent. Being a mom is tough and her story really touched my heart. She truly had such a rough start to motherhood, but I am glad she was able to rise from the ashes and find a community of amazing people to surround herself with.
Austin, Austin, Austin…. I freaking LOVE that man. He seriously stepped up for both Paris and the kids and he was the perfect man for the job. All of the little things he did for Paris, whether it was to make her smile or just give her some reprieve, absolutely melted my heart. The MOUTH on his man?! The FREAK of this man?! Oh yes. It was amazing. No notes.
The found family in all of CL Rose’s books is incredible and this one definitely did not disappoint, that epilogue had me CRYING.
While I am sad this series is coming to an end, that prologue has me ready for what’s coming next!
Thank you so much CL Rose for the opportunity to receive and review this eARC. All thoughts & opinions are my own 💗
Tropes:
- Age Gap
- Single Mom/Coach
- Workplace Romance
- Caretaking
- Found Family
- Service Dom
Review of advance copy
OMG, DADDY AUSTIN! 🥰🔥
To say I loved this book would be a massive understatement. I’ve been curious about Austin since Book 1, so I was so excited to finally get his story and, most importantly, his HEA. And let me tell you… Austin and Paris were absolutely perfect for each other. They each brought exactly what the other needed, and watching their relationship unfold was everything. ❤️
My heart broke for Paris and everything she had been through, but she is such a strong, loving woman and an incredible mother. She deserved her happiness, and Austin was exactly the man she needed. And Austin? He was everything I expected and SO much more. Daddy Austin was 🔥🔥🔥, and that man absolutely delivered!
Chapter 37 completely wrecked me. I was sobbing right along with Austin. 🥹😭 The way he connected with all three children melted my heart, and his first experience with the first day of school was pure gold. 🥰🥹 Those moments made me love him even more.
And the spice? PERFECT. 🔥 “Bless those smutty books for teaching you to talk like that.” 😉 That line had me cackling!
One of my favorite things about this series is getting to see all the previous characters again and watching this beautiful found family continue to grow. It makes the whole series feel so warm, connected, and special. ❤️
C.L. Rose absolutely knocked this one out of the park. I laughed, swooned, cried, and fell completely in love with Austin and Paris.
Thank you so much, C.L. Rose, for the opportunity to read this amazing book as an ARC. I loved every minute of it! ❤️🥰
To say I loved this book would be a massive understatement. I’ve been curious about Austin since Book 1, so I was so excited to finally get his story and, most importantly, his HEA. And let me tell you… Austin and Paris were absolutely perfect for each other. They each brought exactly what the other needed, and watching their relationship unfold was everything. ❤️
My heart broke for Paris and everything she had been through, but she is such a strong, loving woman and an incredible mother. She deserved her happiness, and Austin was exactly the man she needed. And Austin? He was everything I expected and SO much more. Daddy Austin was 🔥🔥🔥, and that man absolutely delivered!
Chapter 37 completely wrecked me. I was sobbing right along with Austin. 🥹😭 The way he connected with all three children melted my heart, and his first experience with the first day of school was pure gold. 🥰🥹 Those moments made me love him even more.
And the spice? PERFECT. 🔥 “Bless those smutty books for teaching you to talk like that.” 😉 That line had me cackling!
One of my favorite things about this series is getting to see all the previous characters again and watching this beautiful found family continue to grow. It makes the whole series feel so warm, connected, and special. ❤️
C.L. Rose absolutely knocked this one out of the park. I laughed, swooned, cried, and fell completely in love with Austin and Paris.
Thank you so much, C.L. Rose, for the opportunity to read this amazing book as an ARC. I loved every minute of it! ❤️🥰
Review of advance copy
ARC REVIEW: 5/5 ⭐️
I devoured this book in one night. I couldn’t put it down. I was pulled in by Austin and Paris from page one and just couldn’t pull myself away. This is the first book I’ve read by C.L. Rose, but I fully intend to go back for more! If you need a cute, kick your feet and giggle type of book, this one is it!!
Paris is a recently divorced single mom who is trying to get her life on track. When Paris’ brother helps her find a job as a secretary to the owner of the Renegades football team, she never expected to meet the man of her dreams. Austin is a former pro quarterback who was forced to retire after a shoulder injury. Now Austin spends his days at the Renegades’ field helping the current players and hoping to get himself a coaching job with the team.
Austin is tired of being the only single friend in the group, but is weary of meeting women after a very public and traumatic breakup. He’s ready to have a family of his own, but he’s starting to wonder if that will ever happen for him. Paris has no interest in dating and only wants to focus on being the best mom possible to her kids.
When Austin and Paris meet on the first day of Paris’ new job, she’s really hoping the butterflies she feels is just a silly crush; but Austin continues to show up for her and show her what it’s like to truly be taken care of.
Tropes:
⭐️ Age Gap
⭐️ Single Mom/Coach
⭐️ Workplace Romance
⭐️ Caretaking
⭐️ Found Family
⭐️ Service Dom
I devoured this book in one night. I couldn’t put it down. I was pulled in by Austin and Paris from page one and just couldn’t pull myself away. This is the first book I’ve read by C.L. Rose, but I fully intend to go back for more! If you need a cute, kick your feet and giggle type of book, this one is it!!
Paris is a recently divorced single mom who is trying to get her life on track. When Paris’ brother helps her find a job as a secretary to the owner of the Renegades football team, she never expected to meet the man of her dreams. Austin is a former pro quarterback who was forced to retire after a shoulder injury. Now Austin spends his days at the Renegades’ field helping the current players and hoping to get himself a coaching job with the team.
Austin is tired of being the only single friend in the group, but is weary of meeting women after a very public and traumatic breakup. He’s ready to have a family of his own, but he’s starting to wonder if that will ever happen for him. Paris has no interest in dating and only wants to focus on being the best mom possible to her kids.
When Austin and Paris meet on the first day of Paris’ new job, she’s really hoping the butterflies she feels is just a silly crush; but Austin continues to show up for her and show her what it’s like to truly be taken care of.
Tropes:
⭐️ Age Gap
⭐️ Single Mom/Coach
⭐️ Workplace Romance
⭐️ Caretaking
⭐️ Found Family
⭐️ Service Dom
August 20, 2026
ARC REVIEW!
Thank you The Smuthood and CL Rose for the ARC!!
Found another spicy sports romance author with a freaking good series that is severely underrated! Yayyy! 😭🔥
DADDY AUSTIN 🔥 Green-flag Austin 🔥 Service-dom Austin 🔥 What else?! He’s too perfect! 😭
How lucky is Paris to find a man with a service-dom side like Austin?! He is exactly the man she needs! 🥺
This beautiful story has an age-gap trope between a hot coach and his employee, who also happens to be his best friend’s sister—and a single mom with THREE kids and a douchebag ex who makes her question everything about herself, all while she’s juggling life and raising her kids alone. :(
And then there’s Austin, who helps her rediscover herself and understand her own needs and sexuality. 🥺 It was so beautiful to read, and honestly, they’re just MADE for each other! Austin wants a family, while Paris wants a man who can accept both her and her three kids. 🥺🥺🥺
It was also so beautiful to read about the kids finding a father figure in Austin. Like, HOW is this man so perfect?! 🥺🥺 He fits into their little family so naturally, and seeing their bond develop was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book! 😭💕
And I almost forgot to mention—the spice in this book is alsoooo yummmmm 🔥👀
Now I NEED to read another book in this series too! She really got me with this one because the found-family aspect in this book was also so sweet to read! 🥺💕
Thank you The Smuthood and CL Rose for the ARC!!
Found another spicy sports romance author with a freaking good series that is severely underrated! Yayyy! 😭🔥
DADDY AUSTIN 🔥 Green-flag Austin 🔥 Service-dom Austin 🔥 What else?! He’s too perfect! 😭
How lucky is Paris to find a man with a service-dom side like Austin?! He is exactly the man she needs! 🥺
This beautiful story has an age-gap trope between a hot coach and his employee, who also happens to be his best friend’s sister—and a single mom with THREE kids and a douchebag ex who makes her question everything about herself, all while she’s juggling life and raising her kids alone. :(
And then there’s Austin, who helps her rediscover herself and understand her own needs and sexuality. 🥺 It was so beautiful to read, and honestly, they’re just MADE for each other! Austin wants a family, while Paris wants a man who can accept both her and her three kids. 🥺🥺🥺
It was also so beautiful to read about the kids finding a father figure in Austin. Like, HOW is this man so perfect?! 🥺🥺 He fits into their little family so naturally, and seeing their bond develop was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book! 😭💕
And I almost forgot to mention—the spice in this book is alsoooo yummmmm 🔥👀
Now I NEED to read another book in this series too! She really got me with this one because the found-family aspect in this book was also so sweet to read! 🥺💕
August 20, 2026
Austin Baker- what a dream boat!!! Service Dom, all round caregiver and just genuine nice guy with a filthy mouth- what could be more perfect?? The fact that this man hasn’t been looking for his own happy ever after because he desperately wants to settle down with a family tugged at my heart strings. When he gives his friend’s sister Paris a helping hand with a job with the Renegades the last thing he expects is to fall head over heels for the younger, single mum of three. Paris has a lot on her plate and has never had any support from her ex husband- so for Austin to start showing up and caring not only about her but her kids too is a real big deal. She’s not got a lot of experience and he is so patient with her, going at her own pace and to see whether the spark of attraction they have is with pursuing. And wow does this man show up! He’s there at every opportunity to care for Paris and her children. Not only is this man the most caring human being - he truly wants the best for them even if things don’t work out with their mum. And this man’s mouth?? Wow. Yep, this one is going to make you blush… because he gives Paris the freedom to explore sexually whilst also making her feel seen and respected all at the same time. Chapter 30?? Yep that’s going to live rent free for a while! Let’s not also forget the found family and group of women and men that rally to help as always in this group. Loved it 🥰
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: Age gap, workplace romance, service dom, single mom x coach, caretaking, found family
I was so excited to receive this title as an ARC read. Another 5 star masterpiece by C.L. Rose with a great story and perfect spice that didn’t take away from the plot. Austin’s story was one I was waiting for throughout the whole Rock City Renegades series and boy did he deliver! I mean Austin being a service dom and his kink being care taking; I mean c’mon. The ways Austin went above and beyond for Paris between the coffee, getting Renegade friends to show up for her kids, and taking care of her when she was sick just showed how down bad he was for her. Paris was also a great FMC; she was a great mom to her kids but when trying to find herself sexually with Austin showed just because you are a mom doesn’t mean you have to loose yourself. The exploration or her sexuality was also tastefully done and when Austin read her spicy book out loud to her that whole scene was so hot.🔥🔥 That being said I really love how as the series evolves the found family aspect gets so strong with each additional book. The girl gang are true girls girls, they stand by each other and build each other up. The guys also showed up for both Austin and Paris helping in their own special ways. I cannot wait for to see what is next with the new Vegas Vortex series!! I have a feeling Memphis is going to deliver as a MMC.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: Age gap, workplace romance, service dom, single mom x coach, caretaking, found family
I was so excited to receive this title as an ARC read. Another 5 star masterpiece by C.L. Rose with a great story and perfect spice that didn’t take away from the plot. Austin’s story was one I was waiting for throughout the whole Rock City Renegades series and boy did he deliver! I mean Austin being a service dom and his kink being care taking; I mean c’mon. The ways Austin went above and beyond for Paris between the coffee, getting Renegade friends to show up for her kids, and taking care of her when she was sick just showed how down bad he was for her. Paris was also a great FMC; she was a great mom to her kids but when trying to find herself sexually with Austin showed just because you are a mom doesn’t mean you have to loose yourself. The exploration or her sexuality was also tastefully done and when Austin read her spicy book out loud to her that whole scene was so hot.🔥🔥 That being said I really love how as the series evolves the found family aspect gets so strong with each additional book. The girl gang are true girls girls, they stand by each other and build each other up. The guys also showed up for both Austin and Paris helping in their own special ways. I cannot wait for to see what is next with the new Vegas Vortex series!! I have a feeling Memphis is going to deliver as a MMC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review for Clock Play by C.L. Rose
(Out August 27th)
First of all, thank you to C.L. Rose and the Smuthood for giving me the wonderful opportunity to read this ARC. I really loved it!
This was the first book of C.L. Rose that I've read. This was the fifth book in the Rock City Renegades series, but it can be read as a standalone. After reading this one, I'm definitely going back to read her other books!
As someone who watches football, but still doesnt understand all of the terms, I thought it was really cool that there was a glossary for different football terms at the beginning. Its very clear that there was knowledge and research put into the book, which is always wonderful to see.
The kids were adorable! I love the cute and wholesome moments when kids are in books, even when they are as rambunctious as Rhys. 🤭 The water balloon fight scene was my favorite.
Austin really is the perfect guy! Sweet, handsome, caring, the best father figure, etc. I love how he treats Paris, the way she truly deserves! I also loved seeing the family they became in the end.
The found family in this book was beautiful, seeing how much they genuinely care for each other and the lengths they go to support them.
I didnt want this book to end at all! It was so sweet, it made me say 'Awww' and want to cry. This was also an incredibly spicy read. 🥵 Austin and Paris's chemistry was off the charts! 🔥
(Out August 27th)
First of all, thank you to C.L. Rose and the Smuthood for giving me the wonderful opportunity to read this ARC. I really loved it!
This was the first book of C.L. Rose that I've read. This was the fifth book in the Rock City Renegades series, but it can be read as a standalone. After reading this one, I'm definitely going back to read her other books!
As someone who watches football, but still doesnt understand all of the terms, I thought it was really cool that there was a glossary for different football terms at the beginning. Its very clear that there was knowledge and research put into the book, which is always wonderful to see.
The kids were adorable! I love the cute and wholesome moments when kids are in books, even when they are as rambunctious as Rhys. 🤭 The water balloon fight scene was my favorite.
Austin really is the perfect guy! Sweet, handsome, caring, the best father figure, etc. I love how he treats Paris, the way she truly deserves! I also loved seeing the family they became in the end.
The found family in this book was beautiful, seeing how much they genuinely care for each other and the lengths they go to support them.
I didnt want this book to end at all! It was so sweet, it made me say 'Awww' and want to cry. This was also an incredibly spicy read. 🥵 Austin and Paris's chemistry was off the charts! 🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
What A Book! What A Story! C.L. Rose does it over and over with every book she writes. I was in such a book slump and along came Clock Play that pulled me out of my slump, thank you soooo much for this book.
I love a single parent, that doesn’t have it all put together and makes me feel like everything I am doing in the world is so relatable. Everyone needs a champion in their life, and this is so what Austin is for Paris. But not just that, the women in the C.L. Rose universe coming together to make Paris feel like she has people to lean on, made the story too. It takes a village, and I am soooo glad Paris found her village.
Austin blew me away, not only does he step up to help Paris out, he is such an incredible character. I was hoping from other books, he would get his own story and here we are.
Austin and Paris in their own worlds are lost. And what a wonderful pair they become. They help each other to get out of their funks, but also to make themselves better.
This is such an incredible and spicy love story. I gobbled every word that C.L. Rose wrote all up. I loved Paris’ three children, Rowan the protector, Lennon the adorable doll that loves Austin instantly (which melted my heart) and Rhys who was sooooo fun and entertaining. I read this book too fast. But I can’t wait to read it all over again, it was amazing!!!
I love a single parent, that doesn’t have it all put together and makes me feel like everything I am doing in the world is so relatable. Everyone needs a champion in their life, and this is so what Austin is for Paris. But not just that, the women in the C.L. Rose universe coming together to make Paris feel like she has people to lean on, made the story too. It takes a village, and I am soooo glad Paris found her village.
Austin blew me away, not only does he step up to help Paris out, he is such an incredible character. I was hoping from other books, he would get his own story and here we are.
Austin and Paris in their own worlds are lost. And what a wonderful pair they become. They help each other to get out of their funks, but also to make themselves better.
This is such an incredible and spicy love story. I gobbled every word that C.L. Rose wrote all up. I loved Paris’ three children, Rowan the protector, Lennon the adorable doll that loves Austin instantly (which melted my heart) and Rhys who was sooooo fun and entertaining. I read this book too fast. But I can’t wait to read it all over again, it was amazing!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Austin & Paris
Well time to call time of death right now because Austin came and he conquered, phew this book was everything!!
I devoured this in a day, i didn't want to put it down Austin has me in a chokehold I dont even want to get out of. The man that we have been waiting for since Bad Call was everything we could have wanted and more.
The acts of service, the care taking, the dirty mouth... need i say more?!
Loved Paris and her journey of discovering who she was outside of being a mum and its something i wholeheartedly related to. Having Austin be there for her growth and find her confidence was so beautiful.
All I can say is Chapter 37 had me swooning my heart out! The way Austin was with Paris and the kids will forever be stuck in my head.
Read this book, read this series you will not be disappointed!
5⭐️ 3.5🌶
💜Age Gap
💜Single Mom/Coach
💜Workplace Romance
💜Caretaking
💜Found Family
💜Service Dom
Bonus Points go towards the found family. I love the snippets of all the characters and where their lives have taken them. How they show up for each other is so beautiful not to mention the banter between them is so funny!
I am dying for Memphis' book and cannot wait for this next series
Thankyou to CL Rose for the opportunity to read this one early 🫶🏻
Well time to call time of death right now because Austin came and he conquered, phew this book was everything!!
I devoured this in a day, i didn't want to put it down Austin has me in a chokehold I dont even want to get out of. The man that we have been waiting for since Bad Call was everything we could have wanted and more.
The acts of service, the care taking, the dirty mouth... need i say more?!
Loved Paris and her journey of discovering who she was outside of being a mum and its something i wholeheartedly related to. Having Austin be there for her growth and find her confidence was so beautiful.
All I can say is Chapter 37 had me swooning my heart out! The way Austin was with Paris and the kids will forever be stuck in my head.
Read this book, read this series you will not be disappointed!
5⭐️ 3.5🌶
💜Age Gap
💜Single Mom/Coach
💜Workplace Romance
💜Caretaking
💜Found Family
💜Service Dom
Bonus Points go towards the found family. I love the snippets of all the characters and where their lives have taken them. How they show up for each other is so beautiful not to mention the banter between them is so funny!
I am dying for Memphis' book and cannot wait for this next series
Thankyou to CL Rose for the opportunity to read this one early 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
DADDY AUSTIN - yes to whatever that man says and also all men should have a sit down with him and get some lessons on what it is to be a MAN!
Austin & Paris well they were everything and more. Both in different places in their lives but equally searching for something they didn’t know they needed. Watching Paris be a parent and a single parent at that, was inspiring. Candice really showed the trials and tribulations on what it is to be a mum and showed how much an actual village can help you through one of the most intense but rewarding experiences of your life. Letting people in and accepting help sometimes can be hard but when you have someone who wants to do it purely because they want to help and they enjoy it well it’s just beautiful!
Austin the man that he is - the care giving, acts of service were just so refreshing to see in an MMC, his intentions were just purely wanting to take care of her, he was a cinnamon roll until he wasn’t! THAT MANS MOUTH HAD BE SWEATING! Candice always writes spice and dirty talk in a way that’s is mesmerising 🤣
Chapter 37 - without spoilers because it had me CRYING - if you are a parent it will make you melt.
5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
⏰ Age Gap
⏰ Service/Pleasure Dom
⏰ Single Mum/Coach
⏰ Found Family
⏰ mutual healing
Austin & Paris well they were everything and more. Both in different places in their lives but equally searching for something they didn’t know they needed. Watching Paris be a parent and a single parent at that, was inspiring. Candice really showed the trials and tribulations on what it is to be a mum and showed how much an actual village can help you through one of the most intense but rewarding experiences of your life. Letting people in and accepting help sometimes can be hard but when you have someone who wants to do it purely because they want to help and they enjoy it well it’s just beautiful!
Austin the man that he is - the care giving, acts of service were just so refreshing to see in an MMC, his intentions were just purely wanting to take care of her, he was a cinnamon roll until he wasn’t! THAT MANS MOUTH HAD BE SWEATING! Candice always writes spice and dirty talk in a way that’s is mesmerising 🤣
Chapter 37 - without spoilers because it had me CRYING - if you are a parent it will make you melt.
5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
⏰ Age Gap
⏰ Service/Pleasure Dom
⏰ Single Mum/Coach
⏰ Found Family
⏰ mutual healing
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC Review✨
“Clock Play” by C.L. Rose
Rating: 4.75⭐️
Spice: 4.5🌶️
What a way to end an amazing series! Even though I still don’t fully understand the game of football, the Rock City Renegades series has become one of my favorite sports romance series.
Austin and Paris had such a sweet friendship from the beginning, which just grew spicier and more intense as the story progressed. I loved how Austin never infantilized Paris, really respected her as a single mom, and respected her time with her kids. Another aspect of this series that I really love is the sisterhood between all of the WAGS and how they all welcomed Paris into their circle. Not only do they definitely add some comedy, but I love getting to see characters from previous books in the series. This author knows how to write men who will make you swoon, and Austin Baker is certainly one of them. If you love a man with a filthy mouth who would go to the ends of the earth for his girl, Clock Play better be on your TBR!
Thank you so much to C.L. Rose for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Why You’ll Love It:
🏈 Age Gap
🧸 Single Mom x Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
🧸 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
🧸 Service Dom
“Clock Play” by C.L. Rose
Rating: 4.75⭐️
Spice: 4.5🌶️
What a way to end an amazing series! Even though I still don’t fully understand the game of football, the Rock City Renegades series has become one of my favorite sports romance series.
Austin and Paris had such a sweet friendship from the beginning, which just grew spicier and more intense as the story progressed. I loved how Austin never infantilized Paris, really respected her as a single mom, and respected her time with her kids. Another aspect of this series that I really love is the sisterhood between all of the WAGS and how they all welcomed Paris into their circle. Not only do they definitely add some comedy, but I love getting to see characters from previous books in the series. This author knows how to write men who will make you swoon, and Austin Baker is certainly one of them. If you love a man with a filthy mouth who would go to the ends of the earth for his girl, Clock Play better be on your TBR!
Thank you so much to C.L. Rose for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Why You’ll Love It:
🏈 Age Gap
🧸 Single Mom x Coach
🏈 Workplace Romance
🧸 Caretaking
🏈 Found Family
🧸 Service Dom
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️ Oh man was this book good, Austin can get it! We knew from previous books that Austin wanted more out of his life and was looking for love and family, fortunately he finds it in Paris and her three children.
I loved that Austin was so patient with Paris, especially since she had been in a disappointing marriage and had no self-confidence. Austin knew just what she needed, and was fine to take things as her pace. His interactions with her kids were so sweet, you could see how much he cared for them. Austin's proclivities were unexpected and so hot! I was happy that Paris gained confidence in herself and her abilities as a mother, and realized it was ok to ask for help.
The found family aspect of these books is great and I love how much they all care for each other. Paris was included right away, and it was clear she found the family she had been missing. The relationship was not one sided though, as Paris and the kids brought so much joy and fulfillment to Austin's life. I'm sad to see this series end, but really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading the book about Paris's brother! I want to thank The Smuthood and C.L. Rose for the copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to leave a review.
5/5 on the Spicy Scale
Past marital neglect
I loved that Austin was so patient with Paris, especially since she had been in a disappointing marriage and had no self-confidence. Austin knew just what she needed, and was fine to take things as her pace. His interactions with her kids were so sweet, you could see how much he cared for them. Austin's proclivities were unexpected and so hot! I was happy that Paris gained confidence in herself and her abilities as a mother, and realized it was ok to ask for help.
The found family aspect of these books is great and I love how much they all care for each other. Paris was included right away, and it was clear she found the family she had been missing. The relationship was not one sided though, as Paris and the kids brought so much joy and fulfillment to Austin's life. I'm sad to see this series end, but really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading the book about Paris's brother! I want to thank The Smuthood and C.L. Rose for the copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to leave a review.
5/5 on the Spicy Scale
Past marital neglect
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the first book I’ve read by C.L. Rose, and it won’t be the last! It’s the last of an interconnected standalone series, and I didn’t have any trouble keeping up with the cast of characters or enjoying the relationship between Austin and Paris. He is down bad from the moment he meets her. What I love about him is that he doesn’t see her or her history as something to be fixed, but he still wants to take the best care of her, in and out of the bedroom.
Paris moves a bit slower in their relationship because of her history (3 amazing kids by an ex who just couldn’t be bothered), but Austin gives her time, space, and encouragement to heal. He reminds her that not only is she a bada$$ who can do it all, she doesn’t have to do it all alone. Whether it’s Austin taking something off her plate, or the newfound friends who have taken her in like she’s always been there, Paris has so much support she never expected.
Found family (whether it’s friendships or a relationship with someone whose kids they adore) is one of my favorite tropes, and it’s here in absolute spades. Add that to the service dom of it all? Hold me up because my knees are buckling.
Thanks so much to The Smuthood and the author for an advance copy of this book!
Paris moves a bit slower in their relationship because of her history (3 amazing kids by an ex who just couldn’t be bothered), but Austin gives her time, space, and encouragement to heal. He reminds her that not only is she a bada$$ who can do it all, she doesn’t have to do it all alone. Whether it’s Austin taking something off her plate, or the newfound friends who have taken her in like she’s always been there, Paris has so much support she never expected.
Found family (whether it’s friendships or a relationship with someone whose kids they adore) is one of my favorite tropes, and it’s here in absolute spades. Add that to the service dom of it all? Hold me up because my knees are buckling.
Thanks so much to The Smuthood and the author for an advance copy of this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐4 ARC Review
The absolute sweetest end to the series! Right from the start, our entire ARC team was desperate for Austin! We all felt that true Daddy energy rolling off him and well... Candice didn't disappoint!
Paris and Austin were meant for each other. All Austin wants is to have a family, a wife and kids to care for, dote on, and spoil to his hearts content. All Paris wants is a man who will give her the love she desperately wants, while accepting her kids as his own and providing the love and support their own shit father never gave. They each had what the other needed in spades and were not scared to give, especially Austin. I loved the way he took care of Paris, especially when she got sick. They could not have been more perfect together!
Those kids 🥹 I loved Rowan's grown up man of the house attitude, and Rhys's chaos of climbing shower curtains, but most of all, Lennon!! Oh sweet baby girl, the first time she uttered 'dada' was a heart stealer!
As always, the spice was on point - especially the desk scene cos... PHEW 🥵 And their connection was so hot!
Another great book from Candice and I can't wait for the next series to begin!
The absolute sweetest end to the series! Right from the start, our entire ARC team was desperate for Austin! We all felt that true Daddy energy rolling off him and well... Candice didn't disappoint!
Paris and Austin were meant for each other. All Austin wants is to have a family, a wife and kids to care for, dote on, and spoil to his hearts content. All Paris wants is a man who will give her the love she desperately wants, while accepting her kids as his own and providing the love and support their own shit father never gave. They each had what the other needed in spades and were not scared to give, especially Austin. I loved the way he took care of Paris, especially when she got sick. They could not have been more perfect together!
Those kids 🥹 I loved Rowan's grown up man of the house attitude, and Rhys's chaos of climbing shower curtains, but most of all, Lennon!! Oh sweet baby girl, the first time she uttered 'dada' was a heart stealer!
As always, the spice was on point - especially the desk scene cos... PHEW 🥵 And their connection was so hot!
Another great book from Candice and I can't wait for the next series to begin!
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