What do you think?
Rate this book
Name of the Game
Cameron
I’ve always tried to compensate for other people's failings. Don’t get me started on my own shortcomings. However, one mistake continues to chase me twelve years into the future. One that I will never forget.
Sarah Matthews is a public menace that will not hesitate to carve out my eyes with the pointy end of her heel, so why is it that despite us continually clashing on how my sister should live her life, she’s the one I go crawling to for help when I need it?
I tell myself I’m only using her for what I need then I’ll have the pleasure of never having to speak to her again. A fake relationship is all it takes, attracting the eyes and ears of the media for our past to rear its angry head.
Sarah
Determined to get my dance studio off the ground I agreed to help Cameron Rhodes, provided that he steps up to help me too.
What I did not agree to was for his ego to ruin all my plans before they could even fruit, no matter how good looking he may be and the history we have together. If he is looking for forgiveness he won’t find it in me.
The more time I am forced to spend with him is dangerous as we both come to terms that this isn’t a game to win but some mistakes can be forgiven and others can’t as the past catches up with us.
Name of the Game is Book two in the Rucked and Ruined series, an interconnected series of stande alones following players in the Hunter Region Hawks Rugby League team. This book may be read as a standealone however it is encouraged to be read as apart of the series.
I’ve always tried to compensate for other people's failings. Don’t get me started on my own shortcomings. However, one mistake continues to chase me twelve years into the future. One that I will never forget.
Sarah Matthews is a public menace that will not hesitate to carve out my eyes with the pointy end of her heel, so why is it that despite us continually clashing on how my sister should live her life, she’s the one I go crawling to for help when I need it?
I tell myself I’m only using her for what I need then I’ll have the pleasure of never having to speak to her again. A fake relationship is all it takes, attracting the eyes and ears of the media for our past to rear its angry head.
Sarah
Determined to get my dance studio off the ground I agreed to help Cameron Rhodes, provided that he steps up to help me too.
What I did not agree to was for his ego to ruin all my plans before they could even fruit, no matter how good looking he may be and the history we have together. If he is looking for forgiveness he won’t find it in me.
The more time I am forced to spend with him is dangerous as we both come to terms that this isn’t a game to win but some mistakes can be forgiven and others can’t as the past catches up with us.
Name of the Game is Book two in the Rucked and Ruined series, an interconnected series of stande alones following players in the Hunter Region Hawks Rugby League team. This book may be read as a standealone however it is encouraged to be read as apart of the series.
- GenresSecond ChanceRomance
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
June 29, 2026
4.5🌟, 3🌶️
My heart went on a complete rollercoaster ride with this one, and I loved every single second of it.
This story masterfully blends intense, long-buried tension with a heartfelt romance between Cameron and Sarah that feels deeply authentic. I especially appreciated the lovely setting, which provided a refreshing and grounded backdrop that made their world feel incredibly real.
The dynamic between Cameron and Sarah is both explosive and tender, perfectly capturing that friction between years of resentment and undeniable, lingering chemistry. Sarah is a refreshingly strong and unapologetic protagonist, while Cameron’s struggle to overcome his past mistakes makes for a compelling, layered journey. The dual-timeline structure is handled with such care, allowing their shared history to unravel and build momentum until their path toward healing feels both earned and inevitable.
Even with a healthy dose of high-heat spice to keep the pages turning, the true strength of this book lies in its emotional core and authentic character growth. It navigates themes of grief and family pressure with grace, ensuring that the lighter, witty banter between the two never distracts from the substantial emotional stakes.
I walked away from this book with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a massive grin on my face.
~~~~
Huge thank you to the lovely Chloe Hart for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
My heart went on a complete rollercoaster ride with this one, and I loved every single second of it.
This story masterfully blends intense, long-buried tension with a heartfelt romance between Cameron and Sarah that feels deeply authentic. I especially appreciated the lovely setting, which provided a refreshing and grounded backdrop that made their world feel incredibly real.
The dynamic between Cameron and Sarah is both explosive and tender, perfectly capturing that friction between years of resentment and undeniable, lingering chemistry. Sarah is a refreshingly strong and unapologetic protagonist, while Cameron’s struggle to overcome his past mistakes makes for a compelling, layered journey. The dual-timeline structure is handled with such care, allowing their shared history to unravel and build momentum until their path toward healing feels both earned and inevitable.
Even with a healthy dose of high-heat spice to keep the pages turning, the true strength of this book lies in its emotional core and authentic character growth. It navigates themes of grief and family pressure with grace, ensuring that the lighter, witty banter between the two never distracts from the substantial emotional stakes.
I walked away from this book with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a massive grin on my face.
~~~~
Huge thank you to the lovely Chloe Hart for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
July 22, 2026
~Book Two in the Rucked and Ruin Series~
🏉 Cameron Rhodes. Captain of the Rugby Team. Taylor swift fan. Ultimately jock with an ego that could take up an entire room...that is until the one woman who can see right through him re enters his life and sets him up for an awakening.
👠 Sarah Matthews. Dancer. Spitfire. And ultimate "put him in his place" type of woman. Absolutely loved her take no shite attitude and how shes soft only for him.
Loved seeing Asher and Brittany's story intertwine with Cam and Sarah's in this one!!
What you can expect:
🏉 Rugby Player x Stripper
🏉 Second chance romance
🏉 Best Friends Brother
🏉 Fake Dating Situationship
🏉 Hate F×cking
🏉 "Good Boy"
🌶🌶/5
🏉 Cameron Rhodes. Captain of the Rugby Team. Taylor swift fan. Ultimately jock with an ego that could take up an entire room...that is until the one woman who can see right through him re enters his life and sets him up for an awakening.
👠 Sarah Matthews. Dancer. Spitfire. And ultimate "put him in his place" type of woman. Absolutely loved her take no shite attitude and how shes soft only for him.
Loved seeing Asher and Brittany's story intertwine with Cam and Sarah's in this one!!
What you can expect:
🏉 Rugby Player x Stripper
🏉 Second chance romance
🏉 Best Friends Brother
🏉 Fake Dating Situationship
🏉 Hate F×cking
🏉 "Good Boy"
🌶🌶/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 14, 2026Disclaimer; I read this book as part of completing PA work for the author so I have not added a rating, but any thoughts included below are my own and honest.
This was super fun! A great balance of tension, spice, humour, and emotion.
This was super fun! A great balance of tension, spice, humour, and emotion.
August 14, 2026
This book hits a little closer to home, being in Australia, and my family are big rugby fans.
I love it!! The relationship goes from childhood friends to a big misunderstanding. They still have to stay connect due to his sister is her best friend, but what they never spoke about is how much they like each other.
I love it!! The relationship goes from childhood friends to a big misunderstanding. They still have to stay connect due to his sister is her best friend, but what they never spoke about is how much they like each other.
August 24, 2026
I LOVED THIS AND I NEED MORE.
Cameron Rhodes, NRL player for the Hunter Region Hawks x Sarah Matthews, determined dance studio owner. Add a fake relationship, a 12-year-old mistake, and years of tension?? Yes please.
But what made me the happiest was how AUSSIE this book felt. The NRL setting, the TV show references, the familiar language and locations — it made me feel so nostalgic and seen. Contemporary romances set in Australia are still too rare and Chloe Hart nailed it. The setting felt authentic, not gimmicky. It was home on the page.
The chemistry between Cameron and Sarah is explosive and tender all at once. Years of hurt, banter that bites, and that undeniable pull that makes fake dating feel so real. Sarah is sharp and unapologetic. Cameron is layered and trying to make amends. Their slow burn had me hooked.
Equal parts tension, heart, and healing. Funny, emotional, and so very Australian.
I didn’t want it to end. Please give me book 3 ASAP!
Cameron Rhodes, NRL player for the Hunter Region Hawks x Sarah Matthews, determined dance studio owner. Add a fake relationship, a 12-year-old mistake, and years of tension?? Yes please.
But what made me the happiest was how AUSSIE this book felt. The NRL setting, the TV show references, the familiar language and locations — it made me feel so nostalgic and seen. Contemporary romances set in Australia are still too rare and Chloe Hart nailed it. The setting felt authentic, not gimmicky. It was home on the page.
The chemistry between Cameron and Sarah is explosive and tender all at once. Years of hurt, banter that bites, and that undeniable pull that makes fake dating feel so real. Sarah is sharp and unapologetic. Cameron is layered and trying to make amends. Their slow burn had me hooked.
Equal parts tension, heart, and healing. Funny, emotional, and so very Australian.
I didn’t want it to end. Please give me book 3 ASAP!
July 1, 2026
Cameron's always tried to compensate for other people's failings. Don’t get him started on his own shortcomings. However, one mistake continues to chase him twelve years into the future. One that he will never forget.
Sarah Matthews is a public menace that will not hesitate to carve out his eyes with the pointy end of her heel, so why is it that despite them continually clashing on how Cameron's sister should live her life, she’s the one he goes crawling to for help when he needs it?
Cameron tells himself he’s only using her for what he needs, then he’ll have the pleasure of never having to speak to her again. A fake relationship is all it takes, attracting the media's eyes and ears and allowing their past to rear its angry head.
Sarah is determined to get her dance studio off the ground; she agreed to help Cameron Rhodes, provided that he steps up to help her too.
What Sarag did not agree to was for his ego to ruin all her plans before they could even bear fruit, no matter how good-looking he may be or how much history they have together. If he is looking for forgiveness, he won’t find it in her.
The more time Sarah is forced to spend with him, the more dangerous it becomes, as they both come to terms with the fact that this isn’t a game to win, but some mistakes can be forgiven and others can’t, as the past catches up with them.
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first.
Reader discretion is advised.
Tropes: Fake Dating, Enemies-to-Lovers, Second Chance Romance, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Slow-Burn Romance, Reluctant Allies Mutual Pining, Fake Couple, Dating for Public Image, Pretending Becomes Real, Public Relationship/Private Feelings, Grumpy × Grumpy / Firecracker Pairing, Strong-Willed FMC, Emotionally Burdened MMC, Competent FMC, Protective Brother, Two Equally Stubborn Leads, History-Filled Banter, Past Mistakes Haunt the Present, Redemption Arc, Learning to Forgive, Healing Old Wounds, Guilt and Regret, Can Love Overcome the Past?, Professional Athlete MMC, Small Business Owner FMC, Career Goals vs. Romance, Helping Each Other Succeed, Protective Sibling, Family Conflict, Family Expectations, Forgiveness, Growth Through Vulnerability, Trust Earned Over Time, Rebuilding Relationships, Love After Conflict, Facing the Consequences of the Past.
Name of the Game is the 2nd book in The Rucked and Ruined series by Chloe Hart. Name of the Game is Book Two in the Rucked and Ruined series, an interconnected series of standalones following players in the Hunter Region Hawks Rugby League team. This book may be read as a standalone; however, it is best read as part of the series.
Name of the Game, book 2 in Chloe Hart's The Rucked and Ruined series, plunges readers into an unflinching portrayal of life after past deeds gone wrong and the ragged alliances forged from that darkness.
This contemporary romance follows Cameron Rhodes and Sarah Matthews, both strong-willed in their own ways. Cameron is gorgeous, arrogant, and infuriating, while Sarah is the Queen of pride. Their conflicting perspectives create friction and an unexpected connection.
This novel is particularly engrossing because it confronts how past mistakes weigh on current lives. Cameron, a man defined by his failure to save one person twelve years earlier, is haunted by that event and must struggle against himself to keep others safe from harm.
Sarah, sharp as a tack and unafraid to show it, would make the perfect foil — and tectonic friction point — for Cameron. The dynamic between the brothers, driven in particular by well-guarded care for Cameron’s sister, injects humor and tension into the story. Their bickering feels well-deserved and carries real emotional stakes, despite a strong temptation to slip into clichés.
Chloe’s greatest strength comes from the chemistry and complexity of her leads. Cameron has an instinct to cover for others' failures, even at his own expense — something he does repeatedly throughout season one and partway into season two — which deepens this character beyond just another broody male.
Sarah's ambition to build something meaningful with her dance studio and her level-headed self-worth mean she's not just Cameron's love interest; she, too, is a complex woman who knows what she wants and who she wants.
The "fake relationship" story — a well-known staple of the genre — is reinvigorated here by currents of actual want and respectful building between them. This slow burn keeps readers waiting for more than just lust.
The pairing of personal drama and public scrutiny is well balanced. The story unfolds at a satisfying pace, with tension building as Cameron and Sarah navigate the media spotlight and the secrets they have hidden from each other, while also grappling with their fragile egos. Bringing back the old mistakes that plague Claire adds a delicious sense of suspense to this developing romance without ever overpowering it.
If we take the narrative as it is, Chloe's writing is interesting, easy to read, and maintains a pace that doesn't shortchange emotional depth. At times, tighter editing might have strengthened the narrative and the characters' overall performance even further, especially in scenes near the end, but for a take on this genre and story, mood and style carry it more than well.
Name of the Game is a solid sequel that will please those who enjoy modern romance about imperfect people learning to forgive and move on. It's a tale of unseemly love and regret, arrogant pride and humblest humility; indeed, sometimes the toughest game to win is the one we play against ourselves.
If you like your emotional romances with witty banter, multiple levels of candour, and heartfelt redemption, you'll find a ton to love here; but this doesn't read the same way as an all-lighthearted romance.
Chloe paints a troubling portrait of Cameron and Sarah’s relationship: how do we weigh the cost of our missteps, and what will it take for us to move on into an inescapable future?
Name of the Game isn't a cookbook for answers—but it is an interesting path for creating them.
Sarah Matthews is a public menace that will not hesitate to carve out his eyes with the pointy end of her heel, so why is it that despite them continually clashing on how Cameron's sister should live her life, she’s the one he goes crawling to for help when he needs it?
Cameron tells himself he’s only using her for what he needs, then he’ll have the pleasure of never having to speak to her again. A fake relationship is all it takes, attracting the media's eyes and ears and allowing their past to rear its angry head.
Sarah is determined to get her dance studio off the ground; she agreed to help Cameron Rhodes, provided that he steps up to help her too.
What Sarag did not agree to was for his ego to ruin all her plans before they could even bear fruit, no matter how good-looking he may be or how much history they have together. If he is looking for forgiveness, he won’t find it in her.
The more time Sarah is forced to spend with him, the more dangerous it becomes, as they both come to terms with the fact that this isn’t a game to win, but some mistakes can be forgiven and others can’t, as the past catches up with them.
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first.
Reader discretion is advised.
Tropes: Fake Dating, Enemies-to-Lovers, Second Chance Romance, Forced Proximity, Only One Bed, Slow-Burn Romance, Reluctant Allies Mutual Pining, Fake Couple, Dating for Public Image, Pretending Becomes Real, Public Relationship/Private Feelings, Grumpy × Grumpy / Firecracker Pairing, Strong-Willed FMC, Emotionally Burdened MMC, Competent FMC, Protective Brother, Two Equally Stubborn Leads, History-Filled Banter, Past Mistakes Haunt the Present, Redemption Arc, Learning to Forgive, Healing Old Wounds, Guilt and Regret, Can Love Overcome the Past?, Professional Athlete MMC, Small Business Owner FMC, Career Goals vs. Romance, Helping Each Other Succeed, Protective Sibling, Family Conflict, Family Expectations, Forgiveness, Growth Through Vulnerability, Trust Earned Over Time, Rebuilding Relationships, Love After Conflict, Facing the Consequences of the Past.
Name of the Game is the 2nd book in The Rucked and Ruined series by Chloe Hart. Name of the Game is Book Two in the Rucked and Ruined series, an interconnected series of standalones following players in the Hunter Region Hawks Rugby League team. This book may be read as a standalone; however, it is best read as part of the series.
Name of the Game, book 2 in Chloe Hart's The Rucked and Ruined series, plunges readers into an unflinching portrayal of life after past deeds gone wrong and the ragged alliances forged from that darkness.
This contemporary romance follows Cameron Rhodes and Sarah Matthews, both strong-willed in their own ways. Cameron is gorgeous, arrogant, and infuriating, while Sarah is the Queen of pride. Their conflicting perspectives create friction and an unexpected connection.
This novel is particularly engrossing because it confronts how past mistakes weigh on current lives. Cameron, a man defined by his failure to save one person twelve years earlier, is haunted by that event and must struggle against himself to keep others safe from harm.
Sarah, sharp as a tack and unafraid to show it, would make the perfect foil — and tectonic friction point — for Cameron. The dynamic between the brothers, driven in particular by well-guarded care for Cameron’s sister, injects humor and tension into the story. Their bickering feels well-deserved and carries real emotional stakes, despite a strong temptation to slip into clichés.
Chloe’s greatest strength comes from the chemistry and complexity of her leads. Cameron has an instinct to cover for others' failures, even at his own expense — something he does repeatedly throughout season one and partway into season two — which deepens this character beyond just another broody male.
Sarah's ambition to build something meaningful with her dance studio and her level-headed self-worth mean she's not just Cameron's love interest; she, too, is a complex woman who knows what she wants and who she wants.
The "fake relationship" story — a well-known staple of the genre — is reinvigorated here by currents of actual want and respectful building between them. This slow burn keeps readers waiting for more than just lust.
The pairing of personal drama and public scrutiny is well balanced. The story unfolds at a satisfying pace, with tension building as Cameron and Sarah navigate the media spotlight and the secrets they have hidden from each other, while also grappling with their fragile egos. Bringing back the old mistakes that plague Claire adds a delicious sense of suspense to this developing romance without ever overpowering it.
If we take the narrative as it is, Chloe's writing is interesting, easy to read, and maintains a pace that doesn't shortchange emotional depth. At times, tighter editing might have strengthened the narrative and the characters' overall performance even further, especially in scenes near the end, but for a take on this genre and story, mood and style carry it more than well.
Name of the Game is a solid sequel that will please those who enjoy modern romance about imperfect people learning to forgive and move on. It's a tale of unseemly love and regret, arrogant pride and humblest humility; indeed, sometimes the toughest game to win is the one we play against ourselves.
If you like your emotional romances with witty banter, multiple levels of candour, and heartfelt redemption, you'll find a ton to love here; but this doesn't read the same way as an all-lighthearted romance.
Chloe paints a troubling portrait of Cameron and Sarah’s relationship: how do we weigh the cost of our missteps, and what will it take for us to move on into an inescapable future?
Name of the Game isn't a cookbook for answers—but it is an interesting path for creating them.
July 22, 2026
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity
Name the Game by Chloe Hart ✨
Okay... Chloe Hart, you got me with this one.
Give me a sports romance with fake dating, best friend's brother, and a rugby player, and I'm already sold. But then you throw in a one-tent moment, years of unresolved feelings, and an emotional journey between Cam and Sarah? I couldn't put it down.
I loved watching their relationship evolve from teenage crushes into something so much deeper. The chemistry was there from the beginning, but it was the emotional tension, the longing, and the vulnerability that completely pulled me in. Cam had me smiling more times than I can count, and Sarah's journey felt so genuine and relatable. 💜
I also appreciated the mental health representation. It added another layer to the story and made these characters feel even more real. Chloe Hart handled those moments with so much care while still giving us all the romance, banter, and swoony moments I was hoping for.
We get: 🖤 Fake Dating 🖤 Best Friend's Brother 🖤 Rugby Player × Stripper 🖤 One Tent 🖤 Teenage Friends to Lovers 🖤 Sports Romance 🖤 Australian Setting 🖤 Mental Health Representation
This was the perfect balance of heart, humor, and romance, and by the time I reached the last page, I wasn't ready to let Cam and Sarah go.
If you're looking for a romance that's equal parts sweet, emotional, and filled with chemistry, Name the Game definitely deserves a spot on your TBR.
Español: Aver... Chloe Hart definitivamente me conquistó con este libro.
Dame una historia con fake dating, el hermano del mejor amigo, un jugador de rugby, y ya tienes toda mi atención. Pero además le sumas una escena de una sola tienda de campaña, años de sentimientos guardados y el hermoso desarrollo de la relación entre Cam y Sarah... simplemente no pude dejar de leer.
Me encantó ver cómo su historia evolucionó desde su adolescencia hasta convertirse en algo mucho más profundo. La química entre ellos estuvo presente desde el principio, pero fue la tensión, el anhelo y la vulnerabilidad lo que realmente hizo que me enamorara de esta historia. Cam me hizo sonreír muchísimas veces, y el crecimiento de Sarah se sintió muy auténtico.
También quiero destacar la representación de la salud mental. Aportó mucha profundidad a la historia y Chloe Hart manejó esos temas con muchísimo cuidado, sin dejar de regalarnos momentos románticos, divertidos y llenos de emoción.
Encontrarás: 🖤 Fake Dating 🖤 Hermano del mejor amigo 🖤 Jugador de rugby × Bailarina exótica 🖤 Una sola tienda de campaña 🖤 Amigos desde adolescentes hasta enamorados 🖤 Romance deportivo 🖤 Ambientación en Australia 🖤 Representación de salud mental
Este libro logró el equilibrio perfecto entre romance, humor y momentos emotivos, y cuando terminé la última página, no estaba lista para despedirme de Cam y Sarah.
Si disfrutas los romances con muchísima química, desarrollo emocional y personajes que se sienten reales, Name the Game merece un lugar en tu TBR.
Name the Game by Chloe Hart ✨
Okay... Chloe Hart, you got me with this one.
Give me a sports romance with fake dating, best friend's brother, and a rugby player, and I'm already sold. But then you throw in a one-tent moment, years of unresolved feelings, and an emotional journey between Cam and Sarah? I couldn't put it down.
I loved watching their relationship evolve from teenage crushes into something so much deeper. The chemistry was there from the beginning, but it was the emotional tension, the longing, and the vulnerability that completely pulled me in. Cam had me smiling more times than I can count, and Sarah's journey felt so genuine and relatable. 💜
I also appreciated the mental health representation. It added another layer to the story and made these characters feel even more real. Chloe Hart handled those moments with so much care while still giving us all the romance, banter, and swoony moments I was hoping for.
We get: 🖤 Fake Dating 🖤 Best Friend's Brother 🖤 Rugby Player × Stripper 🖤 One Tent 🖤 Teenage Friends to Lovers 🖤 Sports Romance 🖤 Australian Setting 🖤 Mental Health Representation
This was the perfect balance of heart, humor, and romance, and by the time I reached the last page, I wasn't ready to let Cam and Sarah go.
If you're looking for a romance that's equal parts sweet, emotional, and filled with chemistry, Name the Game definitely deserves a spot on your TBR.
Español: Aver... Chloe Hart definitivamente me conquistó con este libro.
Dame una historia con fake dating, el hermano del mejor amigo, un jugador de rugby, y ya tienes toda mi atención. Pero además le sumas una escena de una sola tienda de campaña, años de sentimientos guardados y el hermoso desarrollo de la relación entre Cam y Sarah... simplemente no pude dejar de leer.
Me encantó ver cómo su historia evolucionó desde su adolescencia hasta convertirse en algo mucho más profundo. La química entre ellos estuvo presente desde el principio, pero fue la tensión, el anhelo y la vulnerabilidad lo que realmente hizo que me enamorara de esta historia. Cam me hizo sonreír muchísimas veces, y el crecimiento de Sarah se sintió muy auténtico.
También quiero destacar la representación de la salud mental. Aportó mucha profundidad a la historia y Chloe Hart manejó esos temas con muchísimo cuidado, sin dejar de regalarnos momentos románticos, divertidos y llenos de emoción.
Encontrarás: 🖤 Fake Dating 🖤 Hermano del mejor amigo 🖤 Jugador de rugby × Bailarina exótica 🖤 Una sola tienda de campaña 🖤 Amigos desde adolescentes hasta enamorados 🖤 Romance deportivo 🖤 Ambientación en Australia 🖤 Representación de salud mental
Este libro logró el equilibrio perfecto entre romance, humor y momentos emotivos, y cuando terminé la última página, no estaba lista para despedirme de Cam y Sarah.
Si disfrutas los romances con muchísima química, desarrollo emocional y personajes que se sienten reales, Name the Game merece un lugar en tu TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My Rating: ★★★★½
Name Of The Game by Chloe Hart is an emotionally engaging contemporary romance that combines second-chance tension, fake dating chaos, and long-buried resentment into a story that feels both heartfelt and addictive. Built around a shared history neither character can fully escape, the novel explores forgiveness, personal growth, and the complicated reality that some wounds never truly heal, no matter how much time has passed.
Where this story shines most strongly is through the dynamic between Cameron and Sarah. Their relationship is layered with years of unresolved hurt, frustration, and undeniable chemistry, creating a constant push-and-pull that drives the narrative forward. The fake relationship trope is handled particularly well, allowing both characters to confront the mistakes of their past while gradually rediscovering the connection that once existed between them. Their banter feels natural, their conflict feels earned, and their emotional journey remains compelling throughout.
The pacing is one of the novel's greatest strengths. From the opening chapters, the story captures attention and rarely lets go. Each interaction between Cameron and Sarah adds another piece to their shared history, steadily building both emotional investment and romantic tension. The balance between lighter moments and heavier themes helps maintain momentum while ensuring the emotional beats land with impact.
One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the Australian setting. Contemporary romances set in Australia remain surprisingly rare, and seeing familiar locations, language, and cultural references woven naturally into the story made the reading experience even more immersive. The setting never feels forced or gimmicky; instead, it becomes an authentic part of the characters' world and adds a refreshing element to the romance.
Beyond the central relationship, the novel also explores themes of grief, accountability, family expectations, and redemption. While several darker subjects are touched upon throughout the story, they are balanced effectively against the romance, creating a narrative that feels emotionally substantial without losing its heart.
I would strongly recommend Name Of The Game to readers who enjoy fake dating romances, second-chance love stories, emotional character development, and couples forced to confront their shared past. Readers looking for strong chemistry, meaningful growth, and a romance that balances humour with heartfelt emotion will likely find this especially enjoyable.
Overall, this is a captivating, emotionally driven romance that delivers equal parts tension, heart, and healing. With memorable characters, authentic emotional stakes, and a wonderfully Australian backdrop, Name Of The Game is the kind of story that pulls you in from the first chapter and refuses to let go until the very last page.
Name Of The Game by Chloe Hart is an emotionally engaging contemporary romance that combines second-chance tension, fake dating chaos, and long-buried resentment into a story that feels both heartfelt and addictive. Built around a shared history neither character can fully escape, the novel explores forgiveness, personal growth, and the complicated reality that some wounds never truly heal, no matter how much time has passed.
Where this story shines most strongly is through the dynamic between Cameron and Sarah. Their relationship is layered with years of unresolved hurt, frustration, and undeniable chemistry, creating a constant push-and-pull that drives the narrative forward. The fake relationship trope is handled particularly well, allowing both characters to confront the mistakes of their past while gradually rediscovering the connection that once existed between them. Their banter feels natural, their conflict feels earned, and their emotional journey remains compelling throughout.
The pacing is one of the novel's greatest strengths. From the opening chapters, the story captures attention and rarely lets go. Each interaction between Cameron and Sarah adds another piece to their shared history, steadily building both emotional investment and romantic tension. The balance between lighter moments and heavier themes helps maintain momentum while ensuring the emotional beats land with impact.
One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the Australian setting. Contemporary romances set in Australia remain surprisingly rare, and seeing familiar locations, language, and cultural references woven naturally into the story made the reading experience even more immersive. The setting never feels forced or gimmicky; instead, it becomes an authentic part of the characters' world and adds a refreshing element to the romance.
Beyond the central relationship, the novel also explores themes of grief, accountability, family expectations, and redemption. While several darker subjects are touched upon throughout the story, they are balanced effectively against the romance, creating a narrative that feels emotionally substantial without losing its heart.
I would strongly recommend Name Of The Game to readers who enjoy fake dating romances, second-chance love stories, emotional character development, and couples forced to confront their shared past. Readers looking for strong chemistry, meaningful growth, and a romance that balances humour with heartfelt emotion will likely find this especially enjoyable.
Overall, this is a captivating, emotionally driven romance that delivers equal parts tension, heart, and healing. With memorable characters, authentic emotional stakes, and a wonderfully Australian backdrop, Name Of The Game is the kind of story that pulls you in from the first chapter and refuses to let go until the very last page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
review of advanced reader copy sent by the Author.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
What to expect:
Fake dating • Best Friends Brother • Dual POV • NRL player x Stripper • Skinny Dipping • They waited for each other •
This book was great. I adored the characters. The banter is fantastic, the yearning and chemistry 10/10!
Love that this book is based in Australia.
We follow our FMC Sarah Matthews; she is working as a stripper while trying to get her dance studio off the ground.
She agrees to fake date our MMC Cameron Rhodes. He needs to win a competition, and she needs a dance partner.
Now these two have a history, they went to school together. Were quite happy together until Sarah overhears a phone conversation between Cameron and his sister Brittany (Sarah's best friend). Cameron says some horrible things about Sarah.
So, lovers turn into enemies. Now they can't stand to be in the same room as each other. How are they possibly going to make this arrangement work?!
I really enjoyed Sarah's character, she's strong, brave and confident. She isn't ashamed of who she is and what she does, to keep herself and her family fed and a roof over their heads.
She hasn't had an easy life, but she knows what she wants and will do anything to make it happen.
Cameron, this man has also had a rough upbringing, and he carries the weight of other people's bad choices on his shoulders. He has also made some terrible mistakes, especially when it comes to Sarah.
He said something things in the heat of the moment, and that decision has haunted him for the last 12 years.
I loved the preludes in this book, with the dual pov it really helps to see both sides of what happened all those years ago.
Holy moly the yearning and chemistry between these too was CRAZY!
You could feel all the emotions while you were reading.
These two thought they could fake date for a couple of months and then go their separate ways 😂😂😂.
This book has quite a bit of spice.... the tequila bottle scene 🤭 IYKYK
Loved the banter in this book, these two know exactly what to say to mess with the other.
Love the nicknames they have for each other.
Loved the plot and pacing of this book. It had me hooked from the very beginning, needing to know what was coming next. And held my attention all the way through.
The fact that these two unknowingly waited for each other all those years is so special. 💖
I thought the ending was perfect!
The trigger warning page was hilarious, as a fellow Aussie; I couldn't help but laugh as I was reading this section 😂
Can't wait for the next one.
Thank you to the Author for sending me a copy of your book. 🩷
⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
What to expect:
Fake dating • Best Friends Brother • Dual POV • NRL player x Stripper • Skinny Dipping • They waited for each other •
This book was great. I adored the characters. The banter is fantastic, the yearning and chemistry 10/10!
Love that this book is based in Australia.
We follow our FMC Sarah Matthews; she is working as a stripper while trying to get her dance studio off the ground.
She agrees to fake date our MMC Cameron Rhodes. He needs to win a competition, and she needs a dance partner.
Now these two have a history, they went to school together. Were quite happy together until Sarah overhears a phone conversation between Cameron and his sister Brittany (Sarah's best friend). Cameron says some horrible things about Sarah.
So, lovers turn into enemies. Now they can't stand to be in the same room as each other. How are they possibly going to make this arrangement work?!
I really enjoyed Sarah's character, she's strong, brave and confident. She isn't ashamed of who she is and what she does, to keep herself and her family fed and a roof over their heads.
She hasn't had an easy life, but she knows what she wants and will do anything to make it happen.
Cameron, this man has also had a rough upbringing, and he carries the weight of other people's bad choices on his shoulders. He has also made some terrible mistakes, especially when it comes to Sarah.
He said something things in the heat of the moment, and that decision has haunted him for the last 12 years.
I loved the preludes in this book, with the dual pov it really helps to see both sides of what happened all those years ago.
Holy moly the yearning and chemistry between these too was CRAZY!
You could feel all the emotions while you were reading.
These two thought they could fake date for a couple of months and then go their separate ways 😂😂😂.
This book has quite a bit of spice.... the tequila bottle scene 🤭 IYKYK
Loved the banter in this book, these two know exactly what to say to mess with the other.
Love the nicknames they have for each other.
Loved the plot and pacing of this book. It had me hooked from the very beginning, needing to know what was coming next. And held my attention all the way through.
The fact that these two unknowingly waited for each other all those years is so special. 💖
I thought the ending was perfect!
The trigger warning page was hilarious, as a fellow Aussie; I couldn't help but laugh as I was reading this section 😂
Can't wait for the next one.
Thank you to the Author for sending me a copy of your book. 🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2026
This was my first book by the author who kindly gifted me a copy 💖 though after reading this I may have to go back and read book 1! (Interconnected standalones so this isn’t necessary it’s just I enjoyed it that much I want to read book 1)
Where do I start… Name of the game is a sports contemporary romance that follows our MMC Cameron Rhodes a rugby player through his career starting from high school and our FMC Sarah Matthew’s as she navigates life as a stripper to assist her mother in keeping their heads above water whilst secretly nursing a dream of owning her own dance studio.
The story follows the two whilst the story slowly unravels their background and how similar they both struggled as kids in a less than friendly environment.
Due to this Cam feels a strong pull towards Sarah and the urge to protect her which subsequently Sarah reads wrong and thinks he’s trying to draw attention to her and humiliate her.
Cam wins her over when he invites her on a friendly camping trip with his friends where Sarah allows her walls to fall down and the two become close. Flash forward to the months after the trip where the pressure is on to graduate. Due to this neither one explores the lingering feelings between them until the fateful night of the graduation party where cam plans to peruse Sarah. Sadly her drink is spiked and the Sarah he thought he knew is painted in a different light and unbeknownst to him she’s his sisters best friend and he quickly learns the line of work they’re both in.
This is where lines blur and words are spoken in anger and cam abandons Sarah leading to a 12 year heated rivalry until a mutually beneficial fake dating agreement is struck and well could there be a second chance HEA on the cards afterall?
I found this story equally parts captivating and frustrating in the best way. It leaves you feeling every single emotion from both main characters whilst appreciating the camaraderie demonstrated from both characters and their chosen family proving that not all family is blood. The character development is a hell of a rollercoaster leaving you screaming into the pages more than once but eventually leaves you with a warmth that makes you believe that everyone deserves a second chance and not all love stories are picture perfect, sometimes they are messy and real.
I thoroughly enjoyed this storyline and thank Chloe Hart for the ARC opportunity. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future :)
Where do I start… Name of the game is a sports contemporary romance that follows our MMC Cameron Rhodes a rugby player through his career starting from high school and our FMC Sarah Matthew’s as she navigates life as a stripper to assist her mother in keeping their heads above water whilst secretly nursing a dream of owning her own dance studio.
The story follows the two whilst the story slowly unravels their background and how similar they both struggled as kids in a less than friendly environment.
Due to this Cam feels a strong pull towards Sarah and the urge to protect her which subsequently Sarah reads wrong and thinks he’s trying to draw attention to her and humiliate her.
Cam wins her over when he invites her on a friendly camping trip with his friends where Sarah allows her walls to fall down and the two become close. Flash forward to the months after the trip where the pressure is on to graduate. Due to this neither one explores the lingering feelings between them until the fateful night of the graduation party where cam plans to peruse Sarah. Sadly her drink is spiked and the Sarah he thought he knew is painted in a different light and unbeknownst to him she’s his sisters best friend and he quickly learns the line of work they’re both in.
This is where lines blur and words are spoken in anger and cam abandons Sarah leading to a 12 year heated rivalry until a mutually beneficial fake dating agreement is struck and well could there be a second chance HEA on the cards afterall?
I found this story equally parts captivating and frustrating in the best way. It leaves you feeling every single emotion from both main characters whilst appreciating the camaraderie demonstrated from both characters and their chosen family proving that not all family is blood. The character development is a hell of a rollercoaster leaving you screaming into the pages more than once but eventually leaves you with a warmth that makes you believe that everyone deserves a second chance and not all love stories are picture perfect, sometimes they are messy and real.
I thoroughly enjoyed this storyline and thank Chloe Hart for the ARC opportunity. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2026
"Name of the Game" is the second book in The Rucked and Ruined series. Each book operates in an interconnected world of characters, however can be read as standalones as they follow players on the Hawks Rugby team.
Sarah and Cameron met in high school, and after getting off on the wrong foot, they connect before graduation on a weekend camping trip where a rain storm creates a "one tent" situation and they end up being each other's firsts. After a graduation party gone wrong where Sarah gets drugged, Cameron has some sharp words for both Sarah *and* her best friend, his sister, and so begins a decade of mutual dislike, hate, and distance. Life throws them together again as Cameron struggles to maintain a good public image as a professional rugby player, and Sarah needs a dance partner to help with a routine for her new studio so she can make a successful go of it and quit stripping to pay the bills. So begins their fake dating arrangement.
What to expect:
🏉Rugby player MMC
👠Stripper/dance instructor FMC
🏉Best friend's brother
👠Second chance romance
🏉Each other's firsts
👠Toxic family backgrounds/trauma
🏉Fake dating
My Take:
This book was a quick and easy read, but despite that, it wasn't my favorite. The pacing was all over the place, there were lots of time jumps and information relevant to the story that happens off page but isn't explained/explored and it leaves the reader feeling like they are missing something, which personally, left me feeling pretty dissatisfied. I also feel like there were multiple storylines that weren't progressing the plot at all, and could have completely been left out to make things smoother overall, and to leave more time for the development of the relationship and conflicts that *were* moving the plot foward. Also, even though the two main characters were childhood sweethearts, so to speak...even that relationship/romance was really rushed and I didn't feel connected to them or invested in them as a couple at all throughout the story. Very "eh" for me on most fronts for this one. But for second-chance romance fans, it'd probably be worth a read.
Thank you to Iris influencer society, as well as the author for the eARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sarah and Cameron met in high school, and after getting off on the wrong foot, they connect before graduation on a weekend camping trip where a rain storm creates a "one tent" situation and they end up being each other's firsts. After a graduation party gone wrong where Sarah gets drugged, Cameron has some sharp words for both Sarah *and* her best friend, his sister, and so begins a decade of mutual dislike, hate, and distance. Life throws them together again as Cameron struggles to maintain a good public image as a professional rugby player, and Sarah needs a dance partner to help with a routine for her new studio so she can make a successful go of it and quit stripping to pay the bills. So begins their fake dating arrangement.
What to expect:
🏉Rugby player MMC
👠Stripper/dance instructor FMC
🏉Best friend's brother
👠Second chance romance
🏉Each other's firsts
👠Toxic family backgrounds/trauma
🏉Fake dating
My Take:
This book was a quick and easy read, but despite that, it wasn't my favorite. The pacing was all over the place, there were lots of time jumps and information relevant to the story that happens off page but isn't explained/explored and it leaves the reader feeling like they are missing something, which personally, left me feeling pretty dissatisfied. I also feel like there were multiple storylines that weren't progressing the plot at all, and could have completely been left out to make things smoother overall, and to leave more time for the development of the relationship and conflicts that *were* moving the plot foward. Also, even though the two main characters were childhood sweethearts, so to speak...even that relationship/romance was really rushed and I didn't feel connected to them or invested in them as a couple at all throughout the story. Very "eh" for me on most fronts for this one. But for second-chance romance fans, it'd probably be worth a read.
Thank you to Iris influencer society, as well as the author for the eARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read
June 28, 2026Our story begins with Cameron and Sarah 12 years ago, they met while they were in private school, she was the shy and introverted girl who was working odd jobs to help her mom and sister make ends meet, and he was the rugby team’s star who hoped to make it to the NRL one day and who understands better than most what it’s like to have a complicated past & feel like an outcast and who wants to make sure she feels like she belongs, hopefully with him.
Things were starting to look up after an amazing camping trip that changed everything, but then reality came crashing back and drove them apart, 12 years later destiny brought them back together, she’s best friends with his sister and in desperate need of a dance partner and after making it to the NRL he needs a fake girlfriend, someone to keep him out of trouble and help him win the team and the fans over, what could be better than to fake date each other, after all no strings attached right? WRONG! The more time they spend together, the more they realize that maybe it isn’t over, maybe it never was, and it was all just a big misunderstanding… could their relationship survive if they take the fake out of dating? Only time will tell…
Let me start by saying I truly enjoyed this book, loved how Cam & Sarah’s relationship went from friends to enemies to lovers, I feel like nowadays it’s rare when you get to truly feel like the FMC and MMC hate each other and at moments it felt like they truly despised each other! I also enjoyed how they were both flawed and complex characters, that left so much room for growth, the chemistry between the two of them didn’t hurt either! One minute they were bickering and the next they were kissing! The tension was off the charts! This book managed to keep me wanting to guess what would happen next and boy was I wrong!
Finally I really enjoyed that Sarah was such a strong FMC who worked as a exotic dancer and wasn’t ashamed of her choices and what she had to do in order to survive, that made me like her even more, overall I truly enjoyed this book just make sure to check your trigger warnings!
Thank you so much to Iris influencer society and the author for the arc!
Things were starting to look up after an amazing camping trip that changed everything, but then reality came crashing back and drove them apart, 12 years later destiny brought them back together, she’s best friends with his sister and in desperate need of a dance partner and after making it to the NRL he needs a fake girlfriend, someone to keep him out of trouble and help him win the team and the fans over, what could be better than to fake date each other, after all no strings attached right? WRONG! The more time they spend together, the more they realize that maybe it isn’t over, maybe it never was, and it was all just a big misunderstanding… could their relationship survive if they take the fake out of dating? Only time will tell…
Let me start by saying I truly enjoyed this book, loved how Cam & Sarah’s relationship went from friends to enemies to lovers, I feel like nowadays it’s rare when you get to truly feel like the FMC and MMC hate each other and at moments it felt like they truly despised each other! I also enjoyed how they were both flawed and complex characters, that left so much room for growth, the chemistry between the two of them didn’t hurt either! One minute they were bickering and the next they were kissing! The tension was off the charts! This book managed to keep me wanting to guess what would happen next and boy was I wrong!
Finally I really enjoyed that Sarah was such a strong FMC who worked as a exotic dancer and wasn’t ashamed of her choices and what she had to do in order to survive, that made me like her even more, overall I truly enjoyed this book just make sure to check your trigger warnings!
Thank you so much to Iris influencer society and the author for the arc!
June 30, 2026
Format: 📱 eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check CWs before reading - though be aware, some might make you inappropriately giggle
Let me start by saying that whilst this is an interconnected standalone, I do highly recommend reading book one (Out of My League) first, as there are a lot of narrative crossovers within, and Sarah and Cam's book would give spoilers for the couple in OoML.
I utterly adored how Hart set this one up, with the pivotal moments in Sarah and Cam's teenage years playing out before we get to the here and now. She utilised the childhood prelude scenes amazingly, which made for a smoother read than having flashbacks randomly scattered throughout the present narrative.
As always, I was utterly obsessed with the fake dating part of the story, and boy, did the enemies-to-lovers, second chance vibes really up the ante of the fake relationship plot. The push and pull between Sarah and Cam was amazing; you could feel the tension as they both warred with past and present feelings. The banter throughout the book is *chefs kiss* - I especially like that Sarah nicknamed Cam "Goldilocks" and kept it going, even when the "fake" dropped from their relationship.
Now I will admit, the progression from "fake" to "real" didn't read as smoothly as other fake relationship trope stories I've read, but I still enjoyed the journey that Sarah and Cam went on, both individually and together. And props to Hart for that third act drama - did not see that coming at all, and I was certainly holding my breath reading a few select chapters, wondering just how things were going to pan out or resolve.
As always, absolutely love supporting Aussie authors, and bonus when their books are set within our beautiful country!
Another fun read from Hart, and excited for book three in the series, after that teaser chapter at the end of this one! Also, keeping everything crossed that Dominik has a chance to shine as an MMC in his own book.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check CWs before reading - though be aware, some might make you inappropriately giggle
Let me start by saying that whilst this is an interconnected standalone, I do highly recommend reading book one (Out of My League) first, as there are a lot of narrative crossovers within, and Sarah and Cam's book would give spoilers for the couple in OoML.
I utterly adored how Hart set this one up, with the pivotal moments in Sarah and Cam's teenage years playing out before we get to the here and now. She utilised the childhood prelude scenes amazingly, which made for a smoother read than having flashbacks randomly scattered throughout the present narrative.
As always, I was utterly obsessed with the fake dating part of the story, and boy, did the enemies-to-lovers, second chance vibes really up the ante of the fake relationship plot. The push and pull between Sarah and Cam was amazing; you could feel the tension as they both warred with past and present feelings. The banter throughout the book is *chefs kiss* - I especially like that Sarah nicknamed Cam "Goldilocks" and kept it going, even when the "fake" dropped from their relationship.
Now I will admit, the progression from "fake" to "real" didn't read as smoothly as other fake relationship trope stories I've read, but I still enjoyed the journey that Sarah and Cam went on, both individually and together. And props to Hart for that third act drama - did not see that coming at all, and I was certainly holding my breath reading a few select chapters, wondering just how things were going to pan out or resolve.
As always, absolutely love supporting Aussie authors, and bonus when their books are set within our beautiful country!
Another fun read from Hart, and excited for book three in the series, after that teaser chapter at the end of this one! Also, keeping everything crossed that Dominik has a chance to shine as an MMC in his own book.
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
July 8, 2026
She needed a dance partner. He needed a fake girlfriend. I needed a minute to catch my breath because the chemistry between these two is off the charts.
Chloe Hart completely hooked me with Name of the Game. If you love the best friend’s brother trope, second chances, and enemies-to-lovers stories with an insane amount of tension and sharp banter, then you should add this to your list immediately. Plus, it is a rugby romance set in Australia.
The story follows Cameron, a broody rugby player carrying a ton of guilt from his past, and Sarah, a fiercely independent woman working her butt off to get her own dance studio up and running. After a brutal falling-out in high school, they have spent the last 12 years completely hating each other. But when Cameron desperately needs to rehab his public image, and Sarah finds herself short on options to fund her studio, they are forced to swallow their pride. Striking a mutually beneficial fake dating deal is the last thing either of them wants, but it is the only way to get what they need… even if it means surviving each other first.
What I loved most about this book is Sarah. She is so strong, completely unapologetic about her choices, and takes absolutely zero nonsense from Cameron's massive ego. Their banter is sharp, chaotic, and incredibly hot. They truly feel like fire and gasoline; one minute, they are trading insults, and the next… the chemistry just completely takes over. The push-and-pull is intense, and when the slow burn finally snaps. Holy hell... the spice is next-level and completely delivered.
It does get a bit heavy with some darker themes and past trauma, so definitely check the trigger warnings, but watching these two stubborn, flawed people finally let their guards down in private was everything. It is messy, it is real, it is incredibly sexy, and it is the perfect weekend binge.
Thank you so much to @chloehart.author for my ARC. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Chloe Hart completely hooked me with Name of the Game. If you love the best friend’s brother trope, second chances, and enemies-to-lovers stories with an insane amount of tension and sharp banter, then you should add this to your list immediately. Plus, it is a rugby romance set in Australia.
The story follows Cameron, a broody rugby player carrying a ton of guilt from his past, and Sarah, a fiercely independent woman working her butt off to get her own dance studio up and running. After a brutal falling-out in high school, they have spent the last 12 years completely hating each other. But when Cameron desperately needs to rehab his public image, and Sarah finds herself short on options to fund her studio, they are forced to swallow their pride. Striking a mutually beneficial fake dating deal is the last thing either of them wants, but it is the only way to get what they need… even if it means surviving each other first.
What I loved most about this book is Sarah. She is so strong, completely unapologetic about her choices, and takes absolutely zero nonsense from Cameron's massive ego. Their banter is sharp, chaotic, and incredibly hot. They truly feel like fire and gasoline; one minute, they are trading insults, and the next… the chemistry just completely takes over. The push-and-pull is intense, and when the slow burn finally snaps. Holy hell... the spice is next-level and completely delivered.
It does get a bit heavy with some darker themes and past trauma, so definitely check the trigger warnings, but watching these two stubborn, flawed people finally let their guards down in private was everything. It is messy, it is real, it is incredibly sexy, and it is the perfect weekend binge.
Thank you so much to @chloehart.author for my ARC. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
June 29, 2026
We meet Sarah and Cameron when they are teenagers. Sarah is used to taking care of her siblings and others, with her mother having to be the sole financial provider of the family. She learned to put the needs of others before her own, and when offered a weekend getaway - simply enjoying life for a bit - she takes the opportunity to act normal just for a short amount of time.
Cameron comes with his own baggage but got the chance to live a more financially stable life.
The connection between them is obvious. But then something happens that causes them to drift away from each other.
Twelve years later, we meet them again, and the pull is still there. An opportunity presents itself, benefiting both of them, and they suddenly must confront what happened in the past and accept that there is still something there they cannot avoid any longer.
It was pretty obvious what would happen, but that didn’t take away from me enjoying the journey. Sarah is a character I instantly connected to, and her becoming a strong woman who looks out for herself and her small group of friends was one of my highlights. Cameron had the best intentions at heart, but it didn’t always come across as intended. Their interactions and connection came across so well, and we get quite a bit of spice - but I actually didn’t mind that. It didn’t take over the main story, which is something I appreciated.
With this being part of an interconnected series, it does work as a stand-alone. If you come across this, don’t shy away from giving it a try by itself.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, and I felt that I got more out of it than what the blurb was promising, and this is something I was very happy about.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cameron comes with his own baggage but got the chance to live a more financially stable life.
The connection between them is obvious. But then something happens that causes them to drift away from each other.
Twelve years later, we meet them again, and the pull is still there. An opportunity presents itself, benefiting both of them, and they suddenly must confront what happened in the past and accept that there is still something there they cannot avoid any longer.
It was pretty obvious what would happen, but that didn’t take away from me enjoying the journey. Sarah is a character I instantly connected to, and her becoming a strong woman who looks out for herself and her small group of friends was one of my highlights. Cameron had the best intentions at heart, but it didn’t always come across as intended. Their interactions and connection came across so well, and we get quite a bit of spice - but I actually didn’t mind that. It didn’t take over the main story, which is something I appreciated.
With this being part of an interconnected series, it does work as a stand-alone. If you come across this, don’t shy away from giving it a try by itself.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book, and I felt that I got more out of it than what the blurb was promising, and this is something I was very happy about.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ ARC Review ✨️ - Name of the Game by Chloe Hart – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sarah and Cam really delivered on the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers vibes. Former teenage sweethearts turned sworn enemies, these two spend so much of the book fighting their feelings while simultaneously yearning for each other, and it made for a seriously entertaining ride.
Between the tension, nicknames, banter, drama, and spice, there was never a dull moment. Just when I thought things were finally settling down, something else would happen to throw everything back into chaos. Sarah is sassy, stubborn, and refuses to back down, while Cam's rugby-star confidence hides years of unresolved feelings, making their chemistry impossible to ignore.
I also loved that Sarah works as a dancer. It was refreshing to see a FMC who owned her choices and wasn't ashamed of them. The world Chloe built was so well written, and the side characters were fantastic. I'd read Brittany and Archer's story in a heartbeat, and I'd happily pick up a book about Ally too.
There were a few sections that felt like they dragged a little, but overall this was a really enjoyable read that kept me invested in Sarah and Cam's journey. Cam also made some choices that had me questioning his sanity more than once, but if romance characters made sensible decisions all the time, we'd have a much shorter book. 😂
As always, I love reading an Australian book that's actually set in Australia. The places are familiar, the language feels natural, and there's something special about recognising locations and references instead of having to translate everything in my head. It makes the story feel that little bit more authentic and relatable.
Sarah and Cam really delivered on the friends-to-enemies-to-lovers vibes. Former teenage sweethearts turned sworn enemies, these two spend so much of the book fighting their feelings while simultaneously yearning for each other, and it made for a seriously entertaining ride.
Between the tension, nicknames, banter, drama, and spice, there was never a dull moment. Just when I thought things were finally settling down, something else would happen to throw everything back into chaos. Sarah is sassy, stubborn, and refuses to back down, while Cam's rugby-star confidence hides years of unresolved feelings, making their chemistry impossible to ignore.
I also loved that Sarah works as a dancer. It was refreshing to see a FMC who owned her choices and wasn't ashamed of them. The world Chloe built was so well written, and the side characters were fantastic. I'd read Brittany and Archer's story in a heartbeat, and I'd happily pick up a book about Ally too.
There were a few sections that felt like they dragged a little, but overall this was a really enjoyable read that kept me invested in Sarah and Cam's journey. Cam also made some choices that had me questioning his sanity more than once, but if romance characters made sensible decisions all the time, we'd have a much shorter book. 😂
As always, I love reading an Australian book that's actually set in Australia. The places are familiar, the language feels natural, and there's something special about recognising locations and references instead of having to translate everything in my head. It makes the story feel that little bit more authentic and relatable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was my first book by this author, and I will confess I stopped after a few chapters and went back to read book 1 in the series. You don’t really neeeed to but I hate coming into a series after the first book and tbh, here, I really didn’t understand half of what was going on without having read book 1. So do with that what you will.
Sarah and Cam are kind of a strange couple. They have this connection in high school, they are each other’s firsts, then Cam opens his big fat mouth and she overhears him spewing some bs and they hate each other for the next dozen years. Which really sucks because Sarah’s best friend is Cam’s sister. They find themselves in need of assistance the other can provide and enter a fake relationship.
I’ll be honest, I’m still scratching my head with this one, but I did enjoy it. I found the writing to be difficult. The pacing was weird, there were a lot of holes that you had to kind of plug by context, and, truthfully, Sarah and Cam both had personality transplants which threw me for a loop. I will say I almost, very nearly, dnf when I thought the author was going to commit one of my cardinal sins against readers, but it was quickly cleared up and so I continued. All in all it was kind of a wild ride. There was a lot of drama which served to push their relationship along when it could’ve been better served by deeper character development, not outside tragedies.
Overall an entertaining story. Dominik needs his own book. There’s a lot of potential there and I’d be interested to see how the author tackles him.
Thank you to Chloe Hart for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Sarah and Cam are kind of a strange couple. They have this connection in high school, they are each other’s firsts, then Cam opens his big fat mouth and she overhears him spewing some bs and they hate each other for the next dozen years. Which really sucks because Sarah’s best friend is Cam’s sister. They find themselves in need of assistance the other can provide and enter a fake relationship.
I’ll be honest, I’m still scratching my head with this one, but I did enjoy it. I found the writing to be difficult. The pacing was weird, there were a lot of holes that you had to kind of plug by context, and, truthfully, Sarah and Cam both had personality transplants which threw me for a loop. I will say I almost, very nearly, dnf when I thought the author was going to commit one of my cardinal sins against readers, but it was quickly cleared up and so I continued. All in all it was kind of a wild ride. There was a lot of drama which served to push their relationship along when it could’ve been better served by deeper character development, not outside tragedies.
Overall an entertaining story. Dominik needs his own book. There’s a lot of potential there and I’d be interested to see how the author tackles him.
Thank you to Chloe Hart for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 6, 2026
Thank you to the author, Chloe Hart, for a copy of the Name of the Game in exchange for my honest review. While this is book two in the series, you absolutely can read this as a stand alone!
I don't know where to begin. There are so many layers to this book, the writing was done so well! We have past childhood trauma that rears its ugly head, but also we do have communication that helps to heal and understand where the main characters are coming from.
Sarah and Cameron where friends in high school. Cameron blames Sarah for the path his sister took, just trying to survive. Now that they are back in each other's lives, he needs her and they begin to fake date. In exchange, Cameron helps Sarah with her dance studio. Can the past stay in the past?
I loved their past and I love the relationship they build int he present day. Things aren't fixed overnight, but I loved how the MCs were able to hear the other's perspective and take that into consideration. You could argue there is miscommunication, but I think life just happened to them. As a trope, I would argue this one isn't it as things couldn't be solved with a simple conversation, there were many more layers and misconceptions. I especially loved how under Cameron's hard shell was an absolute gentleman.
This is a solid 4 star read for me. Again, I really like how the relationship progressed and how we actually understand their backgrounds. Beautifully written, this book deserves to be read by as many people as possible!
I don't know where to begin. There are so many layers to this book, the writing was done so well! We have past childhood trauma that rears its ugly head, but also we do have communication that helps to heal and understand where the main characters are coming from.
Sarah and Cameron where friends in high school. Cameron blames Sarah for the path his sister took, just trying to survive. Now that they are back in each other's lives, he needs her and they begin to fake date. In exchange, Cameron helps Sarah with her dance studio. Can the past stay in the past?
I loved their past and I love the relationship they build int he present day. Things aren't fixed overnight, but I loved how the MCs were able to hear the other's perspective and take that into consideration. You could argue there is miscommunication, but I think life just happened to them. As a trope, I would argue this one isn't it as things couldn't be solved with a simple conversation, there were many more layers and misconceptions. I especially loved how under Cameron's hard shell was an absolute gentleman.
This is a solid 4 star read for me. Again, I really like how the relationship progressed and how we actually understand their backgrounds. Beautifully written, this book deserves to be read by as many people as possible!
June 30, 2026
In Name of the Game neemt Chloe Hart ons mee in een wereld waar de inzet hoog is en de regels van het spel constant veranderen. Het verhaal draait om een intense chemie, verborgen agenda's en de dunne lijn tussen liefde en strategie. Vanaf de allereerste pagina is het duidelijk dat de hoofdpersonages elkaar niet zomaar kunnen vertrouwen, wat zorgt for een constante onderhuidse spanning.
Wat maakt dit boek zo goed?
De Dynamiek (Cat & Mouse Game): De absolute kracht van dit boek ligt in de interactie tussen de hoofdpersonages. Het is een heerlijk 'kat-en-muisspel' waarbij de machtsverhoudingen voortdurend verschuiven. Wie heeft de touwtjes in handen en wie geeft zich als eerste bloot?
Sterke Emoties & Onvoorspelbaarheid: Chloe Hart schrijft vlot en weet de spanning (zowel de romantische als de plotgerichte) strak gespannen te houden. De personages zijn complex; ze hebben gebreken, geheimen en een scherp randje, waardoor ze menselijk en intrigerend blijven.
Sfeer en Setting: De wereld waarin het verhaal zich afspeelt voelt tastbaar en draagt bij aan het gevoel dat er op elk moment iets kan barsten. Het is meeslepend, een tikje donker op de juiste momenten, en onmogelijk om weg te leggen.
Eindoordeel: Name of the Game is een absolute pageturner voor iedereen die houdt van romantiek met een scherp randje, sterke dialogen en een flinke dosis spanning. Chloe Hart bewijst met dit boek dat liefde soms het gevaarlijkste spel is dat je kunt spelen.
Wat maakt dit boek zo goed?
De Dynamiek (Cat & Mouse Game): De absolute kracht van dit boek ligt in de interactie tussen de hoofdpersonages. Het is een heerlijk 'kat-en-muisspel' waarbij de machtsverhoudingen voortdurend verschuiven. Wie heeft de touwtjes in handen en wie geeft zich als eerste bloot?
Sterke Emoties & Onvoorspelbaarheid: Chloe Hart schrijft vlot en weet de spanning (zowel de romantische als de plotgerichte) strak gespannen te houden. De personages zijn complex; ze hebben gebreken, geheimen en een scherp randje, waardoor ze menselijk en intrigerend blijven.
Sfeer en Setting: De wereld waarin het verhaal zich afspeelt voelt tastbaar en draagt bij aan het gevoel dat er op elk moment iets kan barsten. Het is meeslepend, een tikje donker op de juiste momenten, en onmogelijk om weg te leggen.
Eindoordeel: Name of the Game is een absolute pageturner voor iedereen die houdt van romantiek met een scherp randje, sterke dialogen en een flinke dosis spanning. Chloe Hart bewijst met dit boek dat liefde soms het gevaarlijkste spel is dat je kunt spelen.
July 11, 2026
Thank you to the author and Iris Influencer Society for my gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this one. I loved the FMC and her sass towards the MMC kept me laughing. I also enjoyed the MMC - golden retriever for sure but get him behind closed doors….🥵.
I enjoyed that the book started out with the MCs past and built up from there. I don’t love when a book gives you bits and pieces of characters’ pasts when it is the reason for tension and animosity in the story. This did not in any way affect my rating but the 6 preludes seemed unnecessary - just make them chapters because that is what they were.
I did not give this a full 5 stars because I felt that there book jumped around at times without flagging it for the reader. It left me confused and I had to reread things to make sure I hadn’t missed something. I will also note that this is the second book in the series and I did not read the first book before this one. Because of that, I didn’t know what happened with MMC’s sister and best friend - I wish it had been super briefly explained. But also…it makes me want to read the first book so I know what happened so that’s a win!
All in all, this was a sweet second-chance romance involving a rugby player and exotic dancer/dance instructor. The two hate each other but agree to fake date to improve his image and help her with a dance showcase. Through in some spice and that is the TL/DR of this book.
I really enjoyed this one. I loved the FMC and her sass towards the MMC kept me laughing. I also enjoyed the MMC - golden retriever for sure but get him behind closed doors….🥵.
I enjoyed that the book started out with the MCs past and built up from there. I don’t love when a book gives you bits and pieces of characters’ pasts when it is the reason for tension and animosity in the story. This did not in any way affect my rating but the 6 preludes seemed unnecessary - just make them chapters because that is what they were.
I did not give this a full 5 stars because I felt that there book jumped around at times without flagging it for the reader. It left me confused and I had to reread things to make sure I hadn’t missed something. I will also note that this is the second book in the series and I did not read the first book before this one. Because of that, I didn’t know what happened with MMC’s sister and best friend - I wish it had been super briefly explained. But also…it makes me want to read the first book so I know what happened so that’s a win!
All in all, this was a sweet second-chance romance involving a rugby player and exotic dancer/dance instructor. The two hate each other but agree to fake date to improve his image and help her with a dance showcase. Through in some spice and that is the TL/DR of this book.
June 28, 2026
“Name of the Game” Chloe Hart 🦄🏕️
Thank you so much to Chloe Hart for the gifted ARC! 💛
I really enjoyed Name of the Game! It had a great mix of romance, emotional depth and suspense that kept me wanting to know what had happened between Cameron and Sarah all those years ago.
The dual timeline worked really well and slowly pieced everything together without giving too much away. I loved how much focus there was on the characters' past trauma and how it shaped them into who they are in the present.
The chemistry and banter between Cameron and Sarah were great and I loved seeing their walls slowly come down as they spent more time together.
For me personally, some of the spicy scenes took me out of the story at times. I was so invested in the emotional side of the plot that I found myself wanting more of that instead. That's definitely just a personal preference though.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with plenty of emotion, tension and character growth. If you love sports romance with fake dating, emotional healing and a bit of mystery surrounding the past, I'd definitely recommend adding this to your tbr.
Tropes:
🏉 Sports romance
💕 Fake dating
⚡ Enemies to lovers
🕰️ Dual timeline
❤️ Past trauma & healing
🏠 Forced proximity
✨ Interconnected standalone
🌶️ Open-door romance
RELEASE DAY TOMORROW 29th JUNE
Thank you so much to Chloe Hart for the gifted ARC! 💛
I really enjoyed Name of the Game! It had a great mix of romance, emotional depth and suspense that kept me wanting to know what had happened between Cameron and Sarah all those years ago.
The dual timeline worked really well and slowly pieced everything together without giving too much away. I loved how much focus there was on the characters' past trauma and how it shaped them into who they are in the present.
The chemistry and banter between Cameron and Sarah were great and I loved seeing their walls slowly come down as they spent more time together.
For me personally, some of the spicy scenes took me out of the story at times. I was so invested in the emotional side of the plot that I found myself wanting more of that instead. That's definitely just a personal preference though.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with plenty of emotion, tension and character growth. If you love sports romance with fake dating, emotional healing and a bit of mystery surrounding the past, I'd definitely recommend adding this to your tbr.
Tropes:
🏉 Sports romance
💕 Fake dating
⚡ Enemies to lovers
🕰️ Dual timeline
❤️ Past trauma & healing
🏠 Forced proximity
✨ Interconnected standalone
🌶️ Open-door romance
RELEASE DAY TOMORROW 29th JUNE
June 29, 2026
Friends to enemies to lovers, former teenage sweethearts , misunderstandings , secrets , love , passion, pain , obstacles, drama , regrets , healing, second chances , angst , humor , witty banter , family and friendships, forced proximity, fake dating, a dual timeline, characters that are not only so likable and relatable but also broken and flawed just like we all are !! I have to say after reading the first book In this series ( a series which has very quickly captured my heart 💜) I honestly did not think anything could get any better . But Cameron and Sarah’s story was so much more than I expected it to be. It’s beautiful, it’s heartbreaking, it’s heartwarming and there were so many things about it that resonated with me in ways I never expected. I loved the progression of their relationship. How it wasn’t always easy and they had to put so much work into it to get their happy ending . Both faced challenges together and separately that had an emotional impact on their lives . They may not have had the smoothest journey but in the end they ended up being exactly what each other needed .
July 3, 2026
3 ⭐️
Before diving into this review I want to thank the IRIS Influencer Society for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
Despite getting through this book quickly and it being easy to read, I didn’t have the best time with it. I found the male main character insufferable for most of this book, which is a quick way to lower my rating and enjoyment of the story. I did actually like the main female character, but still have some unanswered questions in regards to events of the past. Additionally, the plot events within this book felt confusing and disjointed, and it felt like new things were popping up randomly with no context only to be brushed over. I did enjoy the darker elements of this plot but I just wish they were built up more throughout instead of feeling like they were put there for the sake of it.
I do think this book had promise, and I still did have an okay time reading it but maybe it’s just not the book for me. I would definitely still recommend this for fans of romances with darker themes, and thank you again to the IRIS Influencer Society and the author for this ARC.
Before diving into this review I want to thank the IRIS Influencer Society for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
Despite getting through this book quickly and it being easy to read, I didn’t have the best time with it. I found the male main character insufferable for most of this book, which is a quick way to lower my rating and enjoyment of the story. I did actually like the main female character, but still have some unanswered questions in regards to events of the past. Additionally, the plot events within this book felt confusing and disjointed, and it felt like new things were popping up randomly with no context only to be brushed over. I did enjoy the darker elements of this plot but I just wish they were built up more throughout instead of feeling like they were put there for the sake of it.
I do think this book had promise, and I still did have an okay time reading it but maybe it’s just not the book for me. I would definitely still recommend this for fans of romances with darker themes, and thank you again to the IRIS Influencer Society and the author for this ARC.
July 13, 2026
I had the opportunity to receive this book for free from IRIS, and I’m really thankful for that.
The author strongly encourages readers to start with the first book in the series before reading this one. However, I read it as a standalone and realized it’s not necessary. You can follow the story perfectly, although you may encounter some spoilers related to Brit and Asher’s story.
Cam and Sarah had a difficult childhood where they met and developed feelings for each other. Later, they became enemies. However, this is one of the aspects I didn’t enjoy about the book… they don’t really feel like enemies.
Then they enter into a fake girlfriend agreement, and the story develops from there.
I really liked Sarah because she does everything in her power to support her family and friends. Cam is also a strong character, and it’s nice to see how much he cares about others.
But overall, I didn’t enjoy the book that much. I think it’s partly because I didn’t believe in the enemies-to-lovers dynamic, and everything felt a bit… forced.
This is my honest and voluntary review.
The author strongly encourages readers to start with the first book in the series before reading this one. However, I read it as a standalone and realized it’s not necessary. You can follow the story perfectly, although you may encounter some spoilers related to Brit and Asher’s story.
Cam and Sarah had a difficult childhood where they met and developed feelings for each other. Later, they became enemies. However, this is one of the aspects I didn’t enjoy about the book… they don’t really feel like enemies.
Then they enter into a fake girlfriend agreement, and the story develops from there.
I really liked Sarah because she does everything in her power to support her family and friends. Cam is also a strong character, and it’s nice to see how much he cares about others.
But overall, I didn’t enjoy the book that much. I think it’s partly because I didn’t believe in the enemies-to-lovers dynamic, and everything felt a bit… forced.
This is my honest and voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sarah is a woman holding the weight of her family on her shoulders while unapologetically doing whatever she can to keep them afloat. She knows who she is and what she wants within her means and will put anyone in their place.
Cam is a man with the weight of trauma and wanting what's best for his sister. He tries to do what he thinks is right, and despite his poor judgement, he is a lovable character.
They are both sacrificing their interest for one another to keep their hearts intact and love turns to hate.
It is a very spicy book with some questionable acts 😅 and the banter and sarcasm will have you giggling.
I do love how it is unapologetically down to earth. With some spirts romance, it seems like more upperclass, but this one was 100% commoner and was so easy to relate to.
Nachos' pov was so funny.
Qoutes
Dear god, i created an asshole 😹 - goldilocks
"She's an independent feral." he craks open a drink and smirks. "I just domesticated her a little."
Cam is a man with the weight of trauma and wanting what's best for his sister. He tries to do what he thinks is right, and despite his poor judgement, he is a lovable character.
They are both sacrificing their interest for one another to keep their hearts intact and love turns to hate.
It is a very spicy book with some questionable acts 😅 and the banter and sarcasm will have you giggling.
I do love how it is unapologetically down to earth. With some spirts romance, it seems like more upperclass, but this one was 100% commoner and was so easy to relate to.
Nachos' pov was so funny.
Qoutes
Dear god, i created an asshole 😹 - goldilocks
"She's an independent feral." he craks open a drink and smirks. "I just domesticated her a little."
June 29, 2026
This was a fun sexy story!
Cameron is a rugby player Sarah an aspiring dancer.
He’s from the childcare system and she’s helping to take care of her family.
He also has a sister, but unfortunately wasn’t taken in by the same family as Cameron so their dynamic is very interesting.
Sarah and Cameron are school mates. She comes off to people as awkward maybe weird until Cameron invites her on a camping trip with the class and their worlds collide in the best way!
Years later Cameron is a professional rugby player Sarah a nightclub adult dancer.
Things definitely heat up in all directions after that.
Bit of a friends to enemies to lovers going on.
I like how Sarah had no shame or regret about her decision to be a dancer while she practiced and learned the craft of being a professional dancer as well.
Cameron definitely has issues, but he’s a sweetheart
Definitely recommend
Thanks Iris society for the ARC
Cameron is a rugby player Sarah an aspiring dancer.
He’s from the childcare system and she’s helping to take care of her family.
He also has a sister, but unfortunately wasn’t taken in by the same family as Cameron so their dynamic is very interesting.
Sarah and Cameron are school mates. She comes off to people as awkward maybe weird until Cameron invites her on a camping trip with the class and their worlds collide in the best way!
Years later Cameron is a professional rugby player Sarah a nightclub adult dancer.
Things definitely heat up in all directions after that.
Bit of a friends to enemies to lovers going on.
I like how Sarah had no shame or regret about her decision to be a dancer while she practiced and learned the craft of being a professional dancer as well.
Cameron definitely has issues, but he’s a sweetheart
Definitely recommend
Thanks Iris society for the ARC
July 14, 2026
This is a fun edgy sports romance set in Australia with a FMC who is a Strip Club Dancer & the MMC is a Professional Rugby Player.
We get to know the FMC & MMC when they’re in high school in the prelude and how they become friends and fall for each other the first time round.
This book tracks their journey from how they became friends, to enemies, to something in between, to lovers.
In the present day, the characters have repressed their feelings for each other so as circumstances bring them closer together, the fake dating setup keeps them close but we all know it’s just an excuse coz he wants to spend more time with her but he’s too chicken to say how he really feels. She’s trying to break away from night club dancing and start her own studio. He’s needing to liven up his public image and social media presence.
Tropes: sports romance ~ fake dating ~ best friend's brother ~ dual pov ~ enemies to lovers vibes ~ forced proximity ~ one tent ~ second chance feelings ~
We get to know the FMC & MMC when they’re in high school in the prelude and how they become friends and fall for each other the first time round.
This book tracks their journey from how they became friends, to enemies, to something in between, to lovers.
In the present day, the characters have repressed their feelings for each other so as circumstances bring them closer together, the fake dating setup keeps them close but we all know it’s just an excuse coz he wants to spend more time with her but he’s too chicken to say how he really feels. She’s trying to break away from night club dancing and start her own studio. He’s needing to liven up his public image and social media presence.
Tropes: sports romance ~ fake dating ~ best friend's brother ~ dual pov ~ enemies to lovers vibes ~ forced proximity ~ one tent ~ second chance feelings ~
Review of advance copy received from Author
A true enemies to lovers story. I was so engrossed in the story.
The way the relationship played out between Sarah & Cam was a slow burn but you could feel the tension with them. I liked that Sarah was her own person, strong, and did what she had to do to make money. The chemistry between Sarah and Cam, was hot, even though there was alot of animosity between them.
The story had just the right amount of spice, without going overboard which I liked. I wasnt sure what to expect out of this book, but the emotional depth that was portrayed in it by the characters was great. Each character had their own baggage they were dealing with, which definitely added to the story, along with he suspense.
The story did get intense toward the end, so check those trigger warnings.
Overall an engaging read!
The way the relationship played out between Sarah & Cam was a slow burn but you could feel the tension with them. I liked that Sarah was her own person, strong, and did what she had to do to make money. The chemistry between Sarah and Cam, was hot, even though there was alot of animosity between them.
The story had just the right amount of spice, without going overboard which I liked. I wasnt sure what to expect out of this book, but the emotional depth that was portrayed in it by the characters was great. Each character had their own baggage they were dealing with, which definitely added to the story, along with he suspense.
The story did get intense toward the end, so check those trigger warnings.
Overall an engaging read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book truly was just not for me. It starts with 8 chapters of backstory, which puts chapter 1 starting 22% into the book. I knew pretty early in that I did not like Cam, the MMC. I'd hoped that once we got into present day, I'd change my mind, but that never happened, and in my opinion, he had no redeeming qualities.
There was a lot happening in the plot, but for the most part we are told about things happening, but don't actually see it. Things like we know that Sarah and Cam are working together on a dance routine, but we see very little of them actually working together. I think because of that, we missed out on seeing any moments that actually built chemistry between them, so the relationship felt very flat.
There was a lot happening in the plot, but for the most part we are told about things happening, but don't actually see it. Things like we know that Sarah and Cam are working together on a dance routine, but we see very little of them actually working together. I think because of that, we missed out on seeing any moments that actually built chemistry between them, so the relationship felt very flat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Name of the Game
Fake Dating
Best Friends Brother
Second Chances
Rugby Player x Stripper
Mental Health Rep
Australian Romance
One Tent
Protective MMC
Sarah and Cameron have always had this connection. High School romance gone wrong. Words that pierce the soul. Time jump expected.
A decade later.... can Sarah and Cameron put the past behind them to see what has been right in front of them ? One proposal, stolen moments, energy charged encounters and one massive secret.
Name of the game has more going on than being centered around the main characters. You will fall in love with the best friends, while laughing at their expense.
Name of the Game is a dangerous love story of Second Chances that you secretly root for.
Fake Dating
Best Friends Brother
Second Chances
Rugby Player x Stripper
Mental Health Rep
Australian Romance
One Tent
Protective MMC
Sarah and Cameron have always had this connection. High School romance gone wrong. Words that pierce the soul. Time jump expected.
A decade later.... can Sarah and Cameron put the past behind them to see what has been right in front of them ? One proposal, stolen moments, energy charged encounters and one massive secret.
Name of the game has more going on than being centered around the main characters. You will fall in love with the best friends, while laughing at their expense.
Name of the Game is a dangerous love story of Second Chances that you secretly root for.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews