What do you think?
Rate this book
The Bluffing Game
She came to Billionaires’ Valley to marry rich. Her grumpy new boss is determined to ruin every date.
I have a move to Billionaires’ Valley, marry a billionaire, and never worry about money again. (Okay, there’s another reason I came to Santa Capinari. I’m looking for the father I’ve never met. But nobody needs to know that. Not even my sister.)
Three days in, I’m living in a cockroach-infested studio and waiting tables for the grumpiest man in town. Dalton Leone is rude, bossy, and far too good-looking for his own good. His four-year-old son, Toby, has decided I’m going to be his new mommy. And every time I line up a date with a potential billionaire, Dalton shows up and ruins it.
Now I’m stuck under his roof, in his bed, and I’ve bet him a hundred dollars he can’t keep his hands off me for a week.
I came here to marry a billionaire. I didn’t come here to fall for a grumpy single dad.
Grumpy boss, single dad, his kid falls first, only one bed, forced proximity, ex-mafia protector, she wants a billionaire, small town romance, and found family.
I have a move to Billionaires’ Valley, marry a billionaire, and never worry about money again. (Okay, there’s another reason I came to Santa Capinari. I’m looking for the father I’ve never met. But nobody needs to know that. Not even my sister.)
Three days in, I’m living in a cockroach-infested studio and waiting tables for the grumpiest man in town. Dalton Leone is rude, bossy, and far too good-looking for his own good. His four-year-old son, Toby, has decided I’m going to be his new mommy. And every time I line up a date with a potential billionaire, Dalton shows up and ruins it.
Now I’m stuck under his roof, in his bed, and I’ve bet him a hundred dollars he can’t keep his hands off me for a week.
I came here to marry a billionaire. I didn’t come here to fall for a grumpy single dad.
Grumpy boss, single dad, his kid falls first, only one bed, forced proximity, ex-mafia protector, she wants a billionaire, small town romance, and found family.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 24, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
September 26, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This was a fun read but I have to admit that i did get a little frustrated with Sage I want to shake her a few times!! She only wanted to marry a billionaire! Can’t wait to see what happens next!
“have a plan for my life.
Move to Billionaires' Valley. Marry rich. Sail off into the sunset with my gorgeous husband and never worry about money again”
“have a plan for my life.
Move to Billionaires' Valley. Marry rich. Sail off into the sunset with my gorgeous husband and never worry about money again”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had some fun drama! I loved following Sage’s journey to find a man. I did think it was a little odd that she only wanted a billionaire, but shoot your shot, I guess! Once she met Dalton, the flirting was off the charts! You could tell the attraction was mutual and palpable!
When Sage started working for Dalton, I just knew things were going to escalate! The romance between them was definitely fun and sassy! I also enjoyed the subplots throughout the book. They added extra depth to the story and made Sage’s character more intriguing.
In the final quarter of the book, I became frustrated with Sage. Perhaps it was a maturity thing. I believe she had a right to be annoyed, but it seemed like it took her a long time to see the bigger picture. To be fair, she had a lot to process.
This book had some fun drama! I loved following Sage’s journey to find a man. I did think it was a little odd that she only wanted a billionaire, but shoot your shot, I guess! Once she met Dalton, the flirting was off the charts! You could tell the attraction was mutual and palpable!
When Sage started working for Dalton, I just knew things were going to escalate! The romance between them was definitely fun and sassy! I also enjoyed the subplots throughout the book. They added extra depth to the story and made Sage’s character more intriguing.
In the final quarter of the book, I became frustrated with Sage. Perhaps it was a maturity thing. I believe she had a right to be annoyed, but it seemed like it took her a long time to see the bigger picture. To be fair, she had a lot to process.
September 25, 2026
This is a 3.5 star read rounded up. Thank you to the author for a review copy in exchange for a voluntary honest review. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to connect to Sage. The beginning of the book with her looking to find a billionaire kind of put me off a bit. However, that’s the core of the book. You can’t always get what you want but sometimes you get what you need. This is the beginning of a series. The reader is introduced to several characters that will eventually get their own book but this is Sage and Dalton’s book. The two have great chemistry and the banter between the two in the book is the best. He is a single dad and her boss so it’s a workplace romance. But I also love her interactions with Toby. There is just enough of the mafia subplot that keeps this unique and engaging. Pure entertainment. Workplace romance, single dad, banter, mafia and found family.
September 24, 2026
This book had all of my favorite tropes.
I read this book in a week.
Tropes
Grumpy boss
Only One Bed
Single Dad
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I read this book in a week.
Tropes
Grumpy boss
Only One Bed
Single Dad
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sage came looking for a billionaire and somehow ended up with Dalton. Honestly, watching that plan go completely sideways was half the fun!
This was such a lighthearted and entertaining rom-com. Sage and Dalton had me laughing throughout, and I loved the unexpected mix of humor, romance, and drama. Sage starts out determined to find and marry a billionaire, but Dalton and his complicated mafia past were definitely not what she had in mind.
Dalton’s son, Toby, was an absolute sweetheart and added another layer of charm to the story. I also loved getting to see familiar characters alongside the new ones, which has me looking forward to the upcoming books even more.
A fun, easy read with plenty of laughs, some unexpected drama, and a happily ever after that proves sometimes the thing you think you want is not the thing that makes you happiest.
This was such a lighthearted and entertaining rom-com. Sage and Dalton had me laughing throughout, and I loved the unexpected mix of humor, romance, and drama. Sage starts out determined to find and marry a billionaire, but Dalton and his complicated mafia past were definitely not what she had in mind.
Dalton’s son, Toby, was an absolute sweetheart and added another layer of charm to the story. I also loved getting to see familiar characters alongside the new ones, which has me looking forward to the upcoming books even more.
A fun, easy read with plenty of laughs, some unexpected drama, and a happily ever after that proves sometimes the thing you think you want is not the thing that makes you happiest.
October 2, 2026
Single Dad, Enemies-to-Lovers, Grumpy x Sunshine. I love it all, and J.S. Cooper has it in The Bluffing Game. I was fully invested from the get-go. What I thought was a straightforward single-dad romance was far from it. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the banter between Sage and Dalton. His jealousy when she went out on dates. And some of those dates were hilarious! But The Bluffing Game was more than this. The plot had several twists and turns, and I loved every moment because it definitely surprised me. I enjoyed Sage and her younger sister and the challenges they faced. But Dalton had a whole different side—a former life that comes back unexpectedly. The Bluffing Game was well done.
Thank you to J.S. Cooper for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to J.S. Cooper for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 26, 2026
💗 The Bluffing Game 💗
(( Spoiler-Free ARC Review ))
Title- The Bluffing Game
Author- J.S. Cooper
Genre- Contemporary Romance
Series- Desperately Single Seeking Billionaire
Trope City-
💗 One Bed
💗 Forced Proximity
💗 Enemies to Lovers
💗 Single Dad
💗 Grumpy Boss
Sage is on her mission- to find her a billionaire man! I laughed reading that little journey for her. As an FMC, you could feel her lack of emotional maturity a bit. She gets a job working for Billionaire Dalton (MMC) who may or may not have a tricky mafia family past. I really enjoy good banter. These two had the chemistry and the banter. It kept me committed and intrigued. I’m a mom, so I’m instantly a sucker for a good parent MC. Dalton has a son named Toby. Tony is adorable! I love the depth a child brings out in the parent character. So many layers to peel back about Dalton! What is a romance without some twists, secrets, drama, spice, chemistry, wit and a little self discovery!
Thank you J.S. Cooper for sharing this arc with me! 💗
(( Spoiler-Free ARC Review ))
Title- The Bluffing Game
Author- J.S. Cooper
Genre- Contemporary Romance
Series- Desperately Single Seeking Billionaire
Trope City-
💗 One Bed
💗 Forced Proximity
💗 Enemies to Lovers
💗 Single Dad
💗 Grumpy Boss
Sage is on her mission- to find her a billionaire man! I laughed reading that little journey for her. As an FMC, you could feel her lack of emotional maturity a bit. She gets a job working for Billionaire Dalton (MMC) who may or may not have a tricky mafia family past. I really enjoy good banter. These two had the chemistry and the banter. It kept me committed and intrigued. I’m a mom, so I’m instantly a sucker for a good parent MC. Dalton has a son named Toby. Tony is adorable! I love the depth a child brings out in the parent character. So many layers to peel back about Dalton! What is a romance without some twists, secrets, drama, spice, chemistry, wit and a little self discovery!
Thank you J.S. Cooper for sharing this arc with me! 💗
October 6, 2026
Book: The Bluffing Game
Author: J.S. Cooper
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rate:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book! Thank you so much to J.S. Cooper for an Advanced Readers Copy!
I loved Dalton and Sage! I loved that Sage was able to felt like she needed a billionaire to realizing she was strong enough and all she needed was to find her person! I loved the flirting and banter between them! I loved the enemies to lovers vibe this books gives also the slow burn as well! I loved all of there sweet moments together and how they realized they only wanted each other!
I loved that Dalton is a grumpy boss with a secret and a child! I love how protective he is of Sage too and those he loves!
I thought Toby Dalton’s son was the cutest and I loved how he loved Sage right away! I also loved the name that Sage got him!
I loved all the side characters in this book! I loved the family secrets from this book as well! I love a book with a good family secret vibe that could be dangerous!
This book is a must read!
#thebluffinggame #jscooper #romancebooks
Author: J.S. Cooper
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rate:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book! Thank you so much to J.S. Cooper for an Advanced Readers Copy!
I loved Dalton and Sage! I loved that Sage was able to felt like she needed a billionaire to realizing she was strong enough and all she needed was to find her person! I loved the flirting and banter between them! I loved the enemies to lovers vibe this books gives also the slow burn as well! I loved all of there sweet moments together and how they realized they only wanted each other!
I loved that Dalton is a grumpy boss with a secret and a child! I love how protective he is of Sage too and those he loves!
I thought Toby Dalton’s son was the cutest and I loved how he loved Sage right away! I also loved the name that Sage got him!
I loved all the side characters in this book! I loved the family secrets from this book as well! I love a book with a good family secret vibe that could be dangerous!
This book is a must read!
#thebluffinggame #jscooper #romancebooks
Read
September 19, 2026Bluffing Game
JS Cooper
Sage and Rosie Meadows moved away from their hometown, Coconut Beach. Their goal is to relocate to Santa Capinari, Billionaires’ Valley. There they hope to win the love of billionaires and become acquainted with Sage’s biological father. While looking for work this journey takes them to Mama’s Kitchen restaurant. After being hired at Mama’s the girls instantly become friends with Lucia and Izzy. Sage and Rosie are introduced to Jimmy the fish, Dalton, Brett, and Roman who are additional characters in this book.
This is the beginning of Sage and Dalton’s love story.
There are complications, twists and turns along the way with a happily ever after ending.
Well worth the read.
JS Cooper
Sage and Rosie Meadows moved away from their hometown, Coconut Beach. Their goal is to relocate to Santa Capinari, Billionaires’ Valley. There they hope to win the love of billionaires and become acquainted with Sage’s biological father. While looking for work this journey takes them to Mama’s Kitchen restaurant. After being hired at Mama’s the girls instantly become friends with Lucia and Izzy. Sage and Rosie are introduced to Jimmy the fish, Dalton, Brett, and Roman who are additional characters in this book.
This is the beginning of Sage and Dalton’s love story.
There are complications, twists and turns along the way with a happily ever after ending.
Well worth the read.
September 27, 2026
This was such a lighthearted and entertaining rom-com. Sage and Dalton had me laughing throughout, and I loved the unexpected mix of humor, romance, and drama. Sage starts out determined to find and marry a billionaire, but Dalton and his complicated mafia past were definitely not what she had in mind. Jaime always delivers the most beautiful romances that I never fail to fall in love with.
Did Not Finish
October 30, 2026What is this book? The writing is atrocious, the plot line non-existent. You moved to a city to meet a billionaire husband??? Um, what? And sir, your son is a feral child.
Not interested in continuing.
Not interested in continuing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this book ! Pulled an all nighter just to finish the story!
Did Not Finish
September 30, 2026I couldn’t do it. I read the first maybe 50 pages and it was almost painful. The writing style was just hard for me to get hooked on the book and the whole premise of the book was for Rosie and Sage to marry rich men.
September 17, 2026
The Bluffing Game is so compelling I read it in one day, finishing long after my bedtime! Dalton and Sage were a fantastic couple, fighting feelings, hiding secrets, and giving off sparks! There is some danger and intrigue along with the romance, adding an intriguing element to the story. I loved the friendships and family aspects of this book, too. All in all, this was a great read, and the beginning of a great series. I received an advance reader copy of this book.
September 24, 2026
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿
I honestly had such a fun time with The Bluffing Game. I went into this expecting a light, spicy romance with a grumpy single dad and a woman determined to find herself a billionaire, but I ended up getting so much more invested in Sage and Dalton than I expected. Their first meeting had me smiling because Sage has such a personality, and the banter between them immediately had that kind of back and forth that made me want to keep reading just to see what they would say to each other next.
Sage was probably one of my favorite parts of this book because she is confident, sarcastic, stubborn, and definitely not afraid to give Dalton a hard time. I loved watching her go from being completely determined to find her rich husband to slowly realizing that maybe what she actually wanted was something completely different. She came to Santa Capinari looking for security and believing that money could give her the life she wanted, but Dalton and Toby brought out a softer side of her that I really enjoyed seeing. Her relationship with Rosie was also such a sweet part of the story, and I loved how protective they were of each other and how much they genuinely felt like sisters and best friends.
And Dalton. He is definitely grumpy, frustrating, protective, and sometimes way too stubborn for his own good, but I really enjoyed getting to see the softer side of him, especially when it came to Toby. His relationship with his son was honestly one of my favorite things about him, and watching Sage slowly become part of that little world was so cute. Toby completely stole so many of the scenes he was in, and I loved the moments where Sage and Toby were together because you could really see how naturally she fit into their lives.
The chemistry between Sage and Dalton was probably what kept me hooked the most. They were constantly pushing each other's buttons, flirting, challenging each other, and trying very hard to pretend they weren't attracted to one another when it was painfully obvious that they were. I loved the tension between them, especially because neither of them wanted to be the first one to admit just how much the other person was getting under their skin. Their relationship also had plenty of spicy moments, but I especially liked the quieter moments where their connection started feeling like more than attraction. There was something about watching Dalton slowly let Sage into his life that made their relationship feel more meaningful as the story went on.
I also really liked that there was more going on underneath the romance. Sage has her own reasons for coming to Santa Capinari and some things she is keeping to herself, while Dalton has his own secrets and a past that creates some danger for both of them. I liked having those pieces slowly come together because it gave the story more than just the romance, and I was definitely curious to see how everything would eventually come out. Sage's search for her biological father also added an emotional layer that I wasn't expecting, especially with how much it connected to her feelings about family and belonging.
One of my favorite things about Sage's journey was seeing how much her idea of what she wanted changed without her losing herself in the process. She started out thinking she needed money and security, but by the end, she understood that what she was really looking for was love, family, and that feeling of belonging. I really liked that realization because it tied so much of her character arc together, and her relationship with Dalton and Toby made that feel even more important.
Overall, The Bluffing Game was such an entertaining read for me. I loved the banter, the chemistry, the grumpy single dad energy, the family moments, the secrets, and all the little moments where Sage and Dalton slowly stopped fighting what was happening between them. I definitely found myself smiling at their interactions more than once, and I loved seeing Sage become part of Dalton and Toby's little family. This was a fun, spicy, emotional romance that kept me invested in the characters, and I really enjoyed watching them figure out that sometimes what you think you want isn't necessarily what will make you happy.
I honestly had such a fun time with The Bluffing Game. I went into this expecting a light, spicy romance with a grumpy single dad and a woman determined to find herself a billionaire, but I ended up getting so much more invested in Sage and Dalton than I expected. Their first meeting had me smiling because Sage has such a personality, and the banter between them immediately had that kind of back and forth that made me want to keep reading just to see what they would say to each other next.
Sage was probably one of my favorite parts of this book because she is confident, sarcastic, stubborn, and definitely not afraid to give Dalton a hard time. I loved watching her go from being completely determined to find her rich husband to slowly realizing that maybe what she actually wanted was something completely different. She came to Santa Capinari looking for security and believing that money could give her the life she wanted, but Dalton and Toby brought out a softer side of her that I really enjoyed seeing. Her relationship with Rosie was also such a sweet part of the story, and I loved how protective they were of each other and how much they genuinely felt like sisters and best friends.
And Dalton. He is definitely grumpy, frustrating, protective, and sometimes way too stubborn for his own good, but I really enjoyed getting to see the softer side of him, especially when it came to Toby. His relationship with his son was honestly one of my favorite things about him, and watching Sage slowly become part of that little world was so cute. Toby completely stole so many of the scenes he was in, and I loved the moments where Sage and Toby were together because you could really see how naturally she fit into their lives.
The chemistry between Sage and Dalton was probably what kept me hooked the most. They were constantly pushing each other's buttons, flirting, challenging each other, and trying very hard to pretend they weren't attracted to one another when it was painfully obvious that they were. I loved the tension between them, especially because neither of them wanted to be the first one to admit just how much the other person was getting under their skin. Their relationship also had plenty of spicy moments, but I especially liked the quieter moments where their connection started feeling like more than attraction. There was something about watching Dalton slowly let Sage into his life that made their relationship feel more meaningful as the story went on.
I also really liked that there was more going on underneath the romance. Sage has her own reasons for coming to Santa Capinari and some things she is keeping to herself, while Dalton has his own secrets and a past that creates some danger for both of them. I liked having those pieces slowly come together because it gave the story more than just the romance, and I was definitely curious to see how everything would eventually come out. Sage's search for her biological father also added an emotional layer that I wasn't expecting, especially with how much it connected to her feelings about family and belonging.
One of my favorite things about Sage's journey was seeing how much her idea of what she wanted changed without her losing herself in the process. She started out thinking she needed money and security, but by the end, she understood that what she was really looking for was love, family, and that feeling of belonging. I really liked that realization because it tied so much of her character arc together, and her relationship with Dalton and Toby made that feel even more important.
Overall, The Bluffing Game was such an entertaining read for me. I loved the banter, the chemistry, the grumpy single dad energy, the family moments, the secrets, and all the little moments where Sage and Dalton slowly stopped fighting what was happening between them. I definitely found myself smiling at their interactions more than once, and I loved seeing Sage become part of Dalton and Toby's little family. This was a fun, spicy, emotional romance that kept me invested in the characters, and I really enjoyed watching them figure out that sometimes what you think you want isn't necessarily what will make you happy.
September 28, 2026
💰❤️ She Came Looking for a Billionaire and Found Something Better ❤️💰
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Stars | 🌶️🌶️ 2 Chili Peppers
Sage came looking for a billionaire and somehow ended up with Dalton.
Honestly, watching that plan go completely sideways was half the fun. 😂
The Bluffing Game was such a lighthearted and entertaining rom-com. Sage and Dalton had me laughing throughout, and I loved the unexpected mix of humor, romance, drama, and just enough secrets to keep things interesting.
Sage arrives in Santa Capinari with a very specific plan. She wants to find herself a billionaire husband, secure the life she thinks she wants, and hopefully find some answers about her biological father along the way.
Instead, she gets a job waiting tables and a grumpy boss who seems determined to ruin every date she goes on.
Not exactly what she had in mind.
Dalton is definitely NOT the billionaire Sage came looking for, but he is a single dad, a restaurant owner, ridiculously attractive, protective, and carrying around a complicated past that keeps getting more interesting as the story unfolds.
And the banter between these two? SO much fun.
They are constantly pushing each other's buttons, challenging each other, and pretending they aren't attracted to one another when absolutely everyone can see what's happening. Their chemistry kept me invested, and I loved how their relationship slowly shifted from irritation and attraction into something that felt much more meaningful.
I also really enjoyed Sage as a character. She is confident, stubborn, sarcastic, and absolutely determined to get what she wants. I did feel like she could be a little emotionally immature at times, but I also liked watching her realize that maybe the life she thought she wanted wasn't actually the life that would make her happiest.
She came to Billionaires' Valley looking for money and security.
What she actually found was something much more valuable.
And then there's Toby. ❤️
I am a mom, so obviously I'm going to be a sucker for a good parent romance, and Dalton's relationship with his four-year-old son was one of my favorite parts of the book. Toby was such a sweetheart, and I loved seeing how much depth having a child brought out in Dalton.
There is just something about watching a grumpy man completely soften around his kid that gets me every time.
And Toby definitely has his own opinions about Sage. 😂
The story also has a fun mix of secrets, danger, Dalton's complicated mafia history, forced proximity, and some unexpected drama. I liked that there was more happening underneath the romance without the suspense completely taking over the book.
The found-family element was another highlight for me. I enjoyed getting to know the new characters while also seeing familiar faces, and I'm already curious about the upcoming books. There's clearly more happening in Santa Capinari, and I am absolutely here for it.
What I really liked about Sage's journey was that she doesn't have to completely change who she is. She just starts realizing that money isn't necessarily the answer to what she's been searching for. Sometimes the thing you think you need and the thing that actually makes you happy are two very different things.
And apparently, Sage's happily-ever-after wasn't waiting at the finish line with a billionaire.
It was a grumpy former-mafia protector with a cute kid. 😂❤️
Overall, The Bluffing Game was a fun, easy read with plenty of laughs, great banter, chemistry, spice, family moments, secrets, and enough drama to keep things moving. Sage and Dalton were entertaining from beginning to end, and I loved watching their carefully planned lives get completely derailed by each other.
Sometimes the best love story is the one you never planned for.
Thank you to J.S. Cooper for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Stars | 🌶️🌶️ 2 Chili Peppers
Sage came looking for a billionaire and somehow ended up with Dalton.
Honestly, watching that plan go completely sideways was half the fun. 😂
The Bluffing Game was such a lighthearted and entertaining rom-com. Sage and Dalton had me laughing throughout, and I loved the unexpected mix of humor, romance, drama, and just enough secrets to keep things interesting.
Sage arrives in Santa Capinari with a very specific plan. She wants to find herself a billionaire husband, secure the life she thinks she wants, and hopefully find some answers about her biological father along the way.
Instead, she gets a job waiting tables and a grumpy boss who seems determined to ruin every date she goes on.
Not exactly what she had in mind.
Dalton is definitely NOT the billionaire Sage came looking for, but he is a single dad, a restaurant owner, ridiculously attractive, protective, and carrying around a complicated past that keeps getting more interesting as the story unfolds.
And the banter between these two? SO much fun.
They are constantly pushing each other's buttons, challenging each other, and pretending they aren't attracted to one another when absolutely everyone can see what's happening. Their chemistry kept me invested, and I loved how their relationship slowly shifted from irritation and attraction into something that felt much more meaningful.
I also really enjoyed Sage as a character. She is confident, stubborn, sarcastic, and absolutely determined to get what she wants. I did feel like she could be a little emotionally immature at times, but I also liked watching her realize that maybe the life she thought she wanted wasn't actually the life that would make her happiest.
She came to Billionaires' Valley looking for money and security.
What she actually found was something much more valuable.
And then there's Toby. ❤️
I am a mom, so obviously I'm going to be a sucker for a good parent romance, and Dalton's relationship with his four-year-old son was one of my favorite parts of the book. Toby was such a sweetheart, and I loved seeing how much depth having a child brought out in Dalton.
There is just something about watching a grumpy man completely soften around his kid that gets me every time.
And Toby definitely has his own opinions about Sage. 😂
The story also has a fun mix of secrets, danger, Dalton's complicated mafia history, forced proximity, and some unexpected drama. I liked that there was more happening underneath the romance without the suspense completely taking over the book.
The found-family element was another highlight for me. I enjoyed getting to know the new characters while also seeing familiar faces, and I'm already curious about the upcoming books. There's clearly more happening in Santa Capinari, and I am absolutely here for it.
What I really liked about Sage's journey was that she doesn't have to completely change who she is. She just starts realizing that money isn't necessarily the answer to what she's been searching for. Sometimes the thing you think you need and the thing that actually makes you happy are two very different things.
And apparently, Sage's happily-ever-after wasn't waiting at the finish line with a billionaire.
It was a grumpy former-mafia protector with a cute kid. 😂❤️
Overall, The Bluffing Game was a fun, easy read with plenty of laughs, great banter, chemistry, spice, family moments, secrets, and enough drama to keep things moving. Sage and Dalton were entertaining from beginning to end, and I loved watching their carefully planned lives get completely derailed by each other.
Sometimes the best love story is the one you never planned for.
Thank you to J.S. Cooper for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 9, 2026
She went looking for a billionaire and ended up with a grumpy boss, his adorable child, and a potential security problem. Personally, I would be contacting whoever wrote the brochure for Billionaires’ Valley. There has clearly been a misunderstanding.
The Bluffing Game by J. S. Cooper has the kind of romance setup that appeals to the part of me that loves watching a carefully planned life get absolutely demolished by an inconvenient man. Our heroine wants financial security and a wealthy husband. Honestly? In this economy, I understand the vision. Unfortunately, waiting tables for Dalton Leone was not on her manifestation board.
Dalton is a single dad with an attitude, a complicated past, and a habit of interfering with her dates. He calls it protection. I call it an excellent reason to ask why a man who isn’t your boyfriend has appointed himself the head of your boyfriend selection committee. There’s something deliciously aggravating about that dynamic: she’s trying to pursue her plans while he keeps becoming the interruption she can’t ignore.
My feelings about his behavior are where the swooning and side-eye meet. I love a protective romance hero, but I also want the heroine to have room to make her own choices. Being attractive does not automatically qualify someone to manage another adult’s social calendar. Dalton’s appeal, for me, lies in that tension between wanting to feel safe with him and wanting to tell him to kindly mind his business. Preferably while standing slightly closer.
Then there’s his four-year-old, who apparently has a much clearer idea of what he wants than either adult. She’s shopping for a husband; this little boy is recruiting a mother. Someone in this situation has organizational skills. That element gives the setup a softer emotional pull, because becoming attached to a child carries a different weight from being attracted to his father. A handsome man can complicate your plans. A hopeful little kid can go straight for your heart.
The ex-mafia element raises the stakes beyond an inconvenient workplace crush. Dalton’s past brings danger into her life, and suddenly the question of who she’s dating becomes considerably less pressing than who thinks she belongs to him. This is definitely a premise that asks me to embrace the drama. We have employment complications, romantic interference, danger, and forced proximity. At this point, her original life plan needs a recovery team.
And then comes the shared bed and the hundred-dollar wager over his self-control. I appreciate the commitment to making an already complicated situation worse. Neither wants the floor, neither wants to give in, and apparently turning attraction into a competitive sport seems sensible. That combination of pride, temptation, and stubbornness is exactly where this setup gets its cheeky appeal.
My biggest reservation is how much this romance asks the reader to enjoy possessiveness and escalating chaos. Those ingredients can be entertaining, but the emotional connection matters to me just as much as the proximity. I want reasons to root for two people beyond the fact that they’re attractive and the sleeping arrangements are inconvenient.
Still, the central predicament is wonderfully messy: trying to choose a future that looks perfect on paper while being drawn toward someone who complicates every item on the list.
She wanted a wealthy husband and a peaceful life. Instead, she got Dalton.
I hope she kept the receipt for the plan.
The Bluffing Game by J. S. Cooper has the kind of romance setup that appeals to the part of me that loves watching a carefully planned life get absolutely demolished by an inconvenient man. Our heroine wants financial security and a wealthy husband. Honestly? In this economy, I understand the vision. Unfortunately, waiting tables for Dalton Leone was not on her manifestation board.
Dalton is a single dad with an attitude, a complicated past, and a habit of interfering with her dates. He calls it protection. I call it an excellent reason to ask why a man who isn’t your boyfriend has appointed himself the head of your boyfriend selection committee. There’s something deliciously aggravating about that dynamic: she’s trying to pursue her plans while he keeps becoming the interruption she can’t ignore.
My feelings about his behavior are where the swooning and side-eye meet. I love a protective romance hero, but I also want the heroine to have room to make her own choices. Being attractive does not automatically qualify someone to manage another adult’s social calendar. Dalton’s appeal, for me, lies in that tension between wanting to feel safe with him and wanting to tell him to kindly mind his business. Preferably while standing slightly closer.
Then there’s his four-year-old, who apparently has a much clearer idea of what he wants than either adult. She’s shopping for a husband; this little boy is recruiting a mother. Someone in this situation has organizational skills. That element gives the setup a softer emotional pull, because becoming attached to a child carries a different weight from being attracted to his father. A handsome man can complicate your plans. A hopeful little kid can go straight for your heart.
The ex-mafia element raises the stakes beyond an inconvenient workplace crush. Dalton’s past brings danger into her life, and suddenly the question of who she’s dating becomes considerably less pressing than who thinks she belongs to him. This is definitely a premise that asks me to embrace the drama. We have employment complications, romantic interference, danger, and forced proximity. At this point, her original life plan needs a recovery team.
And then comes the shared bed and the hundred-dollar wager over his self-control. I appreciate the commitment to making an already complicated situation worse. Neither wants the floor, neither wants to give in, and apparently turning attraction into a competitive sport seems sensible. That combination of pride, temptation, and stubbornness is exactly where this setup gets its cheeky appeal.
My biggest reservation is how much this romance asks the reader to enjoy possessiveness and escalating chaos. Those ingredients can be entertaining, but the emotional connection matters to me just as much as the proximity. I want reasons to root for two people beyond the fact that they’re attractive and the sleeping arrangements are inconvenient.
Still, the central predicament is wonderfully messy: trying to choose a future that looks perfect on paper while being drawn toward someone who complicates every item on the list.
She wanted a wealthy husband and a peaceful life. Instead, she got Dalton.
I hope she kept the receipt for the plan.
September 29, 2026
I’ll admit, when I first started this series I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. JS Cooper books haven’t been favorites of mine in the past. I’m either annoyed at the context of the story or one, if not all of the characters. She redeemed herself with this book though, especially with how these characters are introduced in the first book. I finished the first book not liking the cousins and to be honest, I didn’t know how they would get written. I was kind of dreading reading their books but wanted to see it out and how it would go. She didn’t make them as annoying in this book like I originally thought. There were aspects of Sage’s personality I didn’t like and were a deal breaker with giving this book a 5. I got annoyed with Sage’s idea of a perfect man being embedded as a billionaire which seemed to carry her thoughts throughout the book, even with Dalton throwing himself at her, openly flirting and making his interest known. She annoyed me in this book based on her stubbornness and refusing help or to show a weakness or vulnerability as well. I also misjudged this book based on the title and description when this was first announced. I was under the impression that Dalton was going to be an undercover billionaire but didn’t show it and was sticking to being a regular guy as he was getting to know Sage. I don’t know if I’m happy or disappointed about this. On the one hand, I’m glad Sage finally did drop her standards of wanting a billionaire and that she fell for the good guy even without a ton of money. At the same time, it would have been a nice surprise with having her find out he’s a billionaire in hiding this whole time. Both stories would have a different vibe though and you can go either way with it. In this case, I don’t know how I feel but I did like this book more than I thought. The added mafia theme was a surprise but I’m glad it was basically used as a way to describe Dalton’s past and didn’t showcase that as his current life. The whole time you don’t know about this part of his life was a fun mystery to me. I kept trying to figure it out while reading it and came up empty. It wasn’t until he came clean about this part of his life that everything just clicked into place. The cagey comments, cryptic things Dalton and Lucia say when getting to know Sage and Rosie and the mystery of Toby’s mother. It was a nice fun thing to figure out during the book even though I tend to stay away from mafia stories unless the plot pulls me in or the description of the book speaks to me. It also had more spice than I thought it would which is always a nice surprise and definitely welcome. This was also the first book I have been able to read quickly while on vacation due to less rocking on the cruise and not so much nausea like I was getting in the beginning of this trip. Overall, this gets a 4 because the story pulled me in and kept me interested. I wanted to see how Sage and Dalton get together and wanted to know more about him. The plot was intriguing and grabbed me. I couldn’t put it down. Unfortunately though, Sage’s attitude and personality annoyed me and while she does get better, it wasn’t enough to warrant a 5 rating. I couldn’t get past her attitude or need to find a billionaire even though she does realize that’s not what she wants anymore.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2026
I want to live in Santa Capinari...
🔖 Single Dad
🔖 Enemies-to-lovers
🔖 Small Town
🔖 Secrets
🔖 Seeking billionaire husband
🔖 Girl Gang, the best
🔖 Mafia World
🔖 Banter
🔖 Delicious Slow Burn that turns into fire
🅼🆈 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂:
My top most favourite thing about this book has to be the gorgeous small town of Santa Capinari and even though it's a town of rich folks, yet the way it's written in the story made me want to go and live there.
So Sage and her sister decide to go and settle in this new place and look for billionaire husbands and they are excited for their plan but everything doesn't exactly go as planned.
Sage and Rosie get extremely lucky when they make an acquaintance of a waitress at a diner who later becomes a very good friend of theirs, Izzy.
Fate smiles upon them when they get jobs as waitresses at a newly opened restaurant and also make friends with the owner's sister and get the fourth member of their girl gang in Lucia.
But right from day one Sage has verbal matches with the owner himself and crazy chemistry which she does her best to ignore because her goals are different.
Dalton and Sage have crazy chemistry right from day one and I have to say I enjoyed their banter a lot and how much the sparks were growing but they would deny them.
My other favourite part and I absolutely loved it was the girl gang and the sweet friendship Sage and Rosie find even though they are new in town.
Also what is going on with Dalton's friend Roman and Lucia...oohh.
But I'm most intrigued about Brett and Rosie as Rosie is a sweet girl and Brett the ultimate grumpy man but the way she keeps on flirting with him and testing him and the way he doesn't show how much she's affecting him, oohh, I'm so ready for their book.
Initially though, I found it difficult to get in this book but I'm glad I did read ahead because I have become as much a part of these characters especially the girl gang now as they all are amazing together.
Little Toby was so cute and adorable and I have to say I admired Dalton for the father he was and the man he was.
Dalton and Sage have some really spice filled times together. That scene where they both are in birthday suits and she bets him to not touch her at all but does everything to tease him was BEYOND FREAKING HOT.🥵🔥🌶️
Sage, I felt, was silly and weird in certain places with the way she behaved and the way she acted and I was like ...girlllll, reallyy??
Rosie was a sweetheart and as were Lucia and Izzy.
Can't wait to dive into Rosie's book next.
🔖 Single Dad
🔖 Enemies-to-lovers
🔖 Small Town
🔖 Secrets
🔖 Seeking billionaire husband
🔖 Girl Gang, the best
🔖 Mafia World
🔖 Banter
🔖 Delicious Slow Burn that turns into fire
🅼🆈 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂:
My top most favourite thing about this book has to be the gorgeous small town of Santa Capinari and even though it's a town of rich folks, yet the way it's written in the story made me want to go and live there.
So Sage and her sister decide to go and settle in this new place and look for billionaire husbands and they are excited for their plan but everything doesn't exactly go as planned.
Sage and Rosie get extremely lucky when they make an acquaintance of a waitress at a diner who later becomes a very good friend of theirs, Izzy.
Fate smiles upon them when they get jobs as waitresses at a newly opened restaurant and also make friends with the owner's sister and get the fourth member of their girl gang in Lucia.
But right from day one Sage has verbal matches with the owner himself and crazy chemistry which she does her best to ignore because her goals are different.
Dalton and Sage have crazy chemistry right from day one and I have to say I enjoyed their banter a lot and how much the sparks were growing but they would deny them.
My other favourite part and I absolutely loved it was the girl gang and the sweet friendship Sage and Rosie find even though they are new in town.
Also what is going on with Dalton's friend Roman and Lucia...oohh.
But I'm most intrigued about Brett and Rosie as Rosie is a sweet girl and Brett the ultimate grumpy man but the way she keeps on flirting with him and testing him and the way he doesn't show how much she's affecting him, oohh, I'm so ready for their book.
Initially though, I found it difficult to get in this book but I'm glad I did read ahead because I have become as much a part of these characters especially the girl gang now as they all are amazing together.
Little Toby was so cute and adorable and I have to say I admired Dalton for the father he was and the man he was.
Dalton and Sage have some really spice filled times together. That scene where they both are in birthday suits and she bets him to not touch her at all but does everything to tease him was BEYOND FREAKING HOT.🥵🔥🌶️
Sage, I felt, was silly and weird in certain places with the way she behaved and the way she acted and I was like ...girlllll, reallyy??
Rosie was a sweetheart and as were Lucia and Izzy.
Can't wait to dive into Rosie's book next.
September 27, 2026
J.S. Cooper kicks off her brand-new Desperately Single Seeking Billionaire series with The Bluffing Game, taking us straight into Billionaire Valley… or, more accurately, the rather more glamorous Santa Capinari.
For Sage and her sister, the plan is simple: after growing up never really having roots, it’s time to find themselves a rich husband and finally secure the life they’ve always dreamed of.
But, of course, this is a J.S. Cooper story… so absolutely nothing is about to go according to plan! 😂
Especially for Sage, who finds herself constantly butting heads with Dalton — a single dad and struggling restaurant owner who is definitely NOT the elusive billionaire she’s supposed to be looking for.
There’s just one little problem… Dalton’s four-year-old son has taken a serious shine to Sage. ❤️
And what follows is a fabulous mix of laugh-out-loud moments, undeniable chemistry and two people who seem determined to get under each other’s skin, while Sage continues her quest for the elusive billionaire and Dalton keeps getting in the way.
💕 Beyond the Synopsis…
This was such a fun introduction to a brand-new series. Sage and Dalton’s interactions had me smiling, especially when you add a four-year-old into the mix who clearly has his own ideas about who belongs in his life!
I loved watching Sage’s carefully laid-out plans begin to unravel as Dalton becomes increasingly difficult to ignore. There’s plenty of humour, some great chemistry and that wonderful feeling that perhaps the person you’re looking for isn’t necessarily the person you expected to find.
I’m also intrigued to see where the series takes us next and to discover more about the characters and their lives as we move further into Billionaire Valley.
💜 Read it for…
✨ A billionaire hunt that doesn’t quite go to plan
✨ A grumpy single dad
✨ A seriously adorable four-year-old
✨ Laugh-out-loud moments
✨ Bickering and chemistry
✨ A fun new series with plenty more to come
⭐ WOB65 Verdict ⭐
A fun, flirty and feel-good start to a brand-new series. Sage may have arrived looking for a billionaire, but sometimes romance has a funny way of getting in the way of the plan! 💕
For Sage and her sister, the plan is simple: after growing up never really having roots, it’s time to find themselves a rich husband and finally secure the life they’ve always dreamed of.
But, of course, this is a J.S. Cooper story… so absolutely nothing is about to go according to plan! 😂
Especially for Sage, who finds herself constantly butting heads with Dalton — a single dad and struggling restaurant owner who is definitely NOT the elusive billionaire she’s supposed to be looking for.
There’s just one little problem… Dalton’s four-year-old son has taken a serious shine to Sage. ❤️
And what follows is a fabulous mix of laugh-out-loud moments, undeniable chemistry and two people who seem determined to get under each other’s skin, while Sage continues her quest for the elusive billionaire and Dalton keeps getting in the way.
💕 Beyond the Synopsis…
This was such a fun introduction to a brand-new series. Sage and Dalton’s interactions had me smiling, especially when you add a four-year-old into the mix who clearly has his own ideas about who belongs in his life!
I loved watching Sage’s carefully laid-out plans begin to unravel as Dalton becomes increasingly difficult to ignore. There’s plenty of humour, some great chemistry and that wonderful feeling that perhaps the person you’re looking for isn’t necessarily the person you expected to find.
I’m also intrigued to see where the series takes us next and to discover more about the characters and their lives as we move further into Billionaire Valley.
💜 Read it for…
✨ A billionaire hunt that doesn’t quite go to plan
✨ A grumpy single dad
✨ A seriously adorable four-year-old
✨ Laugh-out-loud moments
✨ Bickering and chemistry
✨ A fun new series with plenty more to come
⭐ WOB65 Verdict ⭐
A fun, flirty and feel-good start to a brand-new series. Sage may have arrived looking for a billionaire, but sometimes romance has a funny way of getting in the way of the plan! 💕
September 22, 2026
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
I will admit, the whole "moving to a rich town to bag a billionaire" plan sounded a little chaotic on paper… but I blew through this in a single sitting. Turns out, having her broke, grumpy boss constantly crash and ruin her dates was more entertaining than any actual billionaire could have been.
The Bluffing Game by J.S. Cooper is book one in the Desperately Single Seeking Billionaire series, and it was such a fun, easy read to get lost in.
What made reading this so addictive was the sheer chaos between Sage and Dalton. Sage rolls into town with one specific goal… marry a billionaire and never stress about money again! Instead, she ends up waiting tables for the broody, broke owner of the local restaurant… who makes it his personal mission to show up and determinedly sabotage every. single. date. She goes on. Their back-and-forth banter is razor-sharp, hilarious, and packed with that delicious tension where you are practically screaming at your Kindle… "Will you two just kiss already?!"
And Dalton? Total protective, brooding green flag in disguise. The dynamic between him and his sweet four-year-old completely melted my heart. Watching his sweet little boy fall for Sage… completely stole my heart.
When the plot kicks up with past mob ties, real danger, and the inevitable "only one bed" forced proximity, the stakes get real. The tension between them at night in that beach house… had my pulse racing. You can feel the chemistry crackling off the pages, and when they finally stop bluffing, the emotional payoff and heat are so filling.
It is suspenseful, witty, and unexpectedly tender, which left me needing book two for the side characters!
The Bluffing Game is releasing on September 24th; make sure to add this to your TBR.
Huge thank you to J.S. Cooper for my early ARC! All thoughts and reactions are 100% human-written, completely my own, and no AI was used.
I will admit, the whole "moving to a rich town to bag a billionaire" plan sounded a little chaotic on paper… but I blew through this in a single sitting. Turns out, having her broke, grumpy boss constantly crash and ruin her dates was more entertaining than any actual billionaire could have been.
The Bluffing Game by J.S. Cooper is book one in the Desperately Single Seeking Billionaire series, and it was such a fun, easy read to get lost in.
What made reading this so addictive was the sheer chaos between Sage and Dalton. Sage rolls into town with one specific goal… marry a billionaire and never stress about money again! Instead, she ends up waiting tables for the broody, broke owner of the local restaurant… who makes it his personal mission to show up and determinedly sabotage every. single. date. She goes on. Their back-and-forth banter is razor-sharp, hilarious, and packed with that delicious tension where you are practically screaming at your Kindle… "Will you two just kiss already?!"
And Dalton? Total protective, brooding green flag in disguise. The dynamic between him and his sweet four-year-old completely melted my heart. Watching his sweet little boy fall for Sage… completely stole my heart.
When the plot kicks up with past mob ties, real danger, and the inevitable "only one bed" forced proximity, the stakes get real. The tension between them at night in that beach house… had my pulse racing. You can feel the chemistry crackling off the pages, and when they finally stop bluffing, the emotional payoff and heat are so filling.
It is suspenseful, witty, and unexpectedly tender, which left me needing book two for the side characters!
The Bluffing Game is releasing on September 24th; make sure to add this to your TBR.
Huge thank you to J.S. Cooper for my early ARC! All thoughts and reactions are 100% human-written, completely my own, and no AI was used.
October 6, 2026
Dalton is our hot MMC and Sage is our shallow MFC. Shallow is how she is for the majority of the story, and she was not my favorite character. I’m not naive enough to think that there truly aren't women out in the dating world only looking for a rich husband and when you find out her childhood, you sort of understand, but just sort of. Rich and successful are valid characteristics for a potential match, but to take it to the notch of “billionaire?” That is extreme.
As the story unfolds, we find out that moving to this small Southern California town has more potential history for Sage than she first lets on, but it’s not enough for this reader to remember her continual mention of “billionaire.” It gets old, really fast.
Dalton is another story. He’s likable from the get-go! He’s hot, he’s a provider, he’s a businessman with a lot of potential, and he’s a great dad. He checks a lot of boxes and he’s falling for Sage; but again, he doesn’t check that first box for Sage, so she dismisses him.
Both characters have a lot of baggage, seriously who doesn’t and it wouldn’t be a great story if they both didn’t. By the end of the story, Sage is definitely more likable, but I don’t love her. I will say that as she gets answers to her “real” reason for coming to Cali, I did have potential tears in my eyes because it is a heart wrenching story and pivotable part of the story. So there is that!
The ending leaves room for more stories, and I do love a good series to follow.
As the story unfolds, we find out that moving to this small Southern California town has more potential history for Sage than she first lets on, but it’s not enough for this reader to remember her continual mention of “billionaire.” It gets old, really fast.
Dalton is another story. He’s likable from the get-go! He’s hot, he’s a provider, he’s a businessman with a lot of potential, and he’s a great dad. He checks a lot of boxes and he’s falling for Sage; but again, he doesn’t check that first box for Sage, so she dismisses him.
Both characters have a lot of baggage, seriously who doesn’t and it wouldn’t be a great story if they both didn’t. By the end of the story, Sage is definitely more likable, but I don’t love her. I will say that as she gets answers to her “real” reason for coming to Cali, I did have potential tears in my eyes because it is a heart wrenching story and pivotable part of the story. So there is that!
The ending leaves room for more stories, and I do love a good series to follow.
October 2, 2026
“I have a plan for my life.
Move to Billionaires' Valley. Marry rich. Sail off into the sunset with my gorgeous husband and never worry about money again.
Three days after arriving, I have a job waiting tables for the grumpiest man in Santa Capinari.
Not my dream job, nor my dream boss. And there are no billionaires in sight.
Dalton Leone is rude and
obnoxious. Add to that he's a single dad whose four-year-old has decided that he wants me to be his new mommy. No thank you!
I'll continue searching for Mr. Right, not Mr. Grumpy.
Every time I line up a date with a potential match, Dalton shows up.”
What I love about JS Cooper books is they are entertaining and fun. I laugh out loud so hard that I have to wipe the tears away to continue reading. The characters are realistic and human with flaws and dreams. This book is so good that it is one that I will read again and again. Sage and her sister Rosie move to a town where they can find billionaire husbands but what they find is so much better. The push and pull between Dalton and Sage is crazy good. Their chemistry is amazing. This book does have a few surprises in it as well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and highly recommend it. It is more than 5 star worthy. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. I loved all the characters in this book. Jimmie the Fish needs a book as well.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Move to Billionaires' Valley. Marry rich. Sail off into the sunset with my gorgeous husband and never worry about money again.
Three days after arriving, I have a job waiting tables for the grumpiest man in Santa Capinari.
Not my dream job, nor my dream boss. And there are no billionaires in sight.
Dalton Leone is rude and
obnoxious. Add to that he's a single dad whose four-year-old has decided that he wants me to be his new mommy. No thank you!
I'll continue searching for Mr. Right, not Mr. Grumpy.
Every time I line up a date with a potential match, Dalton shows up.”
What I love about JS Cooper books is they are entertaining and fun. I laugh out loud so hard that I have to wipe the tears away to continue reading. The characters are realistic and human with flaws and dreams. This book is so good that it is one that I will read again and again. Sage and her sister Rosie move to a town where they can find billionaire husbands but what they find is so much better. The push and pull between Dalton and Sage is crazy good. Their chemistry is amazing. This book does have a few surprises in it as well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and highly recommend it. It is more than 5 star worthy. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. I loved all the characters in this book. Jimmie the Fish needs a book as well.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
September 26, 2026
Sage packed her bags with one mission in mind: move to town and bag herself a billionaire. So naturally, watching that entire plan go completely off the rails when she ended up with Dalton was the absolute best part for me!
This was such a fun, lighthearted rom-com that had me laughing the whole way through. Sage was fully committed to marrying rich, but Dalton and his wildly complicated mafia past were definitely not on her vision board. Yet the back-and-forth between them? Elite. The banter, the chemistry, the unexpected drama—it all just worked so well.
And can we talk about Dalton being a single dad? His son, Toby, completely stole my heart! I always love how having a kid peels back those broody, protective layers on a male lead, and watching Dalton soften up around his son (and Sage) added so much depth to his character.
This book really hit every single trope sweet spot:
Workplace romance
Grumpy boss / Single dad
A surprisingly juicy mafia subplot
Top-tier banter & spice
Heartwarming found family vibes
It was pure, chaotic entertainment with just enough twists and heart to keep you totally hooked. If you love a rom-com where the universe gives the main character exactly what she needs instead of what she planned, throw this straight onto your TBR.
Thank you to J.S. Cooper for the ARC!
This was such a fun, lighthearted rom-com that had me laughing the whole way through. Sage was fully committed to marrying rich, but Dalton and his wildly complicated mafia past were definitely not on her vision board. Yet the back-and-forth between them? Elite. The banter, the chemistry, the unexpected drama—it all just worked so well.
And can we talk about Dalton being a single dad? His son, Toby, completely stole my heart! I always love how having a kid peels back those broody, protective layers on a male lead, and watching Dalton soften up around his son (and Sage) added so much depth to his character.
This book really hit every single trope sweet spot:
Workplace romance
Grumpy boss / Single dad
A surprisingly juicy mafia subplot
Top-tier banter & spice
Heartwarming found family vibes
It was pure, chaotic entertainment with just enough twists and heart to keep you totally hooked. If you love a rom-com where the universe gives the main character exactly what she needs instead of what she planned, throw this straight onto your TBR.
Thank you to J.S. Cooper for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Sage & her sister Rosie move to “Billionaire Valley”, they have one goal in mind - marry a billionaire to secure their futures. After moving around a lot as children & never having time to put down roots, that’s what these girls crave.
After a brief encounter at a bar, they meet properly when Sage is introduced to her new boss. Yup, you guessed it. Dalton.
Dalton is a single dad, a struggling new restaurant owner & grumpy. He is not looking for love or marriage. He’s the total opposite of what Sage came looking for - but you absolutely cannot deny the spark between them.
Sage denies her feelings for Dalton for a long time; joining an app & going on dates to find her dream guy. But Dalton just can’t leave her alone & follows her. So when things get hairy with one date, Dalton steps in to save the princess from the dragon. Dalton isn’t exactly a choir boy himself, he’s ex-mafia & that’s definitely not on Sage’s checklist for her new husband.
As they spend more time together, Sage begins to realise that marrying a billionaire isn’t what is most important, it’s finding someone who sees you for you & wants you regardless.
The banter between the pair had me laughing out loud, & when they finally gave into their feelings for each other; the spice hit the spot.
After a brief encounter at a bar, they meet properly when Sage is introduced to her new boss. Yup, you guessed it. Dalton.
Dalton is a single dad, a struggling new restaurant owner & grumpy. He is not looking for love or marriage. He’s the total opposite of what Sage came looking for - but you absolutely cannot deny the spark between them.
Sage denies her feelings for Dalton for a long time; joining an app & going on dates to find her dream guy. But Dalton just can’t leave her alone & follows her. So when things get hairy with one date, Dalton steps in to save the princess from the dragon. Dalton isn’t exactly a choir boy himself, he’s ex-mafia & that’s definitely not on Sage’s checklist for her new husband.
As they spend more time together, Sage begins to realise that marrying a billionaire isn’t what is most important, it’s finding someone who sees you for you & wants you regardless.
The banter between the pair had me laughing out loud, & when they finally gave into their feelings for each other; the spice hit the spot.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🚨 SPOILER ALERT: READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!I am giving The Bluffing Game by J.S. Cooper a solid 4-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐A captivating, high-stakes romantic game filled with secrets, sharp banter, undeniable attraction, and intense emotional chemistry! ♠️🎲✨ARC Disclosure: A big thank you to New York Times bestselling author J.S. Cooper and the publisher for providing an advance review copy (eARC) of this book! All thoughts, fanatical reactions, and honest reflections shared in this review are entirely my own. The ReviewThe Bluffing Game by J.S. Cooper delivers an addictive blend of high-stakes intrigue and delicious romantic tension! From the very beginning, the chemistry between the main leads is electric as they navigate a game where neither wants to reveal their true cards.The back-and-forth banter is sharp, witty, and keeps you turning pages quickly. While a few twists were slightly predictable, the overall tension, forced proximity moments, and swoon-worthy male lead make this an incredibly fun, satisfying read!The GoodA brooding, handsome male lead with undeniable green-flag protective energy, clever mind games, fast-paced dialogue, and electric chemistry!The Not So GoodCertain plot reveals felt a bit predictable, but the romantic payoff made it well worth the ride!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Meeting Each Other was Kismet -
Sage had a plan she wanted to follow, which included the criterion for finding a forever partner, but fate threw her a curve ball and led her towards a man who really didn’t fit what she wanted. Dalton didn’t do relationships, but he felt an inexplicable connection with Sage from the moment they met, but even though he tried everything possible to dismiss his growing feelings for her, he found himself acting in an unusual manner. Spending time together allowed their attraction to grow, especially after stolen kisses, sensual touches and alleged platonic dates.
Unfortunately, Sage and Dalton’s willpower didn’t hold for long, especially after he became her support whilst she uncovered a secret family member, which led to them opening up their hearts to the possibility of a happily ever after. Thankfully, Sage and Dalton finally acknowledged their love for each other and went on to build the life that they both deserved. If you like steamy, instalove romance stories heart, that will draw you in from the first page and keep you eagerly turning the pages all the way through to the end, then look no further than this entertaining book.
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sage had a plan she wanted to follow, which included the criterion for finding a forever partner, but fate threw her a curve ball and led her towards a man who really didn’t fit what she wanted. Dalton didn’t do relationships, but he felt an inexplicable connection with Sage from the moment they met, but even though he tried everything possible to dismiss his growing feelings for her, he found himself acting in an unusual manner. Spending time together allowed their attraction to grow, especially after stolen kisses, sensual touches and alleged platonic dates.
Unfortunately, Sage and Dalton’s willpower didn’t hold for long, especially after he became her support whilst she uncovered a secret family member, which led to them opening up their hearts to the possibility of a happily ever after. Thankfully, Sage and Dalton finally acknowledged their love for each other and went on to build the life that they both deserved. If you like steamy, instalove romance stories heart, that will draw you in from the first page and keep you eagerly turning the pages all the way through to the end, then look no further than this entertaining book.
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2026
★★★★★
Couldn’t put it down, read it in one sitting!
Okay wow, I did NOT expect to get this hooked so fast. I picked up “The Bluffing Game” expecting a light, fun read and ended up staying up way past midnight because I refused to stop until I finished it.
Dalton is exactly the kind of grumpy, overprotective love interest I’m a sucker for, and the heroine’s whole “move to Billionaire’s Valley and marry rich” plan getting derailed by her impossible boss had me laughing out loud more than once. The banter between them is so good, and that bet? I was living for every second of it. The slow burn tension when they end up sharing a bed and neither one will admit they want to be there was so perfect…not rushed, but not dragged out either.
I also loved that Dalton’s kid is part of the story. He’s so cute! it added a lot of heart to a book that’s already funny and swoony. And the little mafia/danger subplot gave it just enough edge to keep things interesting without taking over the romance.
The author nailed the balance of humor, heat, and heart here. If you like grumpy single dad heroes, fake-ish relationship tension, and a heroine who actually has a personality and a plan of her own, you need this book. Already looking for the next one in the series!
Thank you J. S. Copper for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review!
Couldn’t put it down, read it in one sitting!
Okay wow, I did NOT expect to get this hooked so fast. I picked up “The Bluffing Game” expecting a light, fun read and ended up staying up way past midnight because I refused to stop until I finished it.
Dalton is exactly the kind of grumpy, overprotective love interest I’m a sucker for, and the heroine’s whole “move to Billionaire’s Valley and marry rich” plan getting derailed by her impossible boss had me laughing out loud more than once. The banter between them is so good, and that bet? I was living for every second of it. The slow burn tension when they end up sharing a bed and neither one will admit they want to be there was so perfect…not rushed, but not dragged out either.
I also loved that Dalton’s kid is part of the story. He’s so cute! it added a lot of heart to a book that’s already funny and swoony. And the little mafia/danger subplot gave it just enough edge to keep things interesting without taking over the romance.
The author nailed the balance of humor, heat, and heart here. If you like grumpy single dad heroes, fake-ish relationship tension, and a heroine who actually has a personality and a plan of her own, you need this book. Already looking for the next one in the series!
Thank you J. S. Copper for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review!
October 5, 2026
Just finished The Bluffing Game and @jscooperauthor you gave me another one that I have fallen in love with!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved Dalton and Sage! Here we have Sage trying to seem like she is a damsel in distress and needs a billionaire to make her life easier, but she doesn’t. She’s independent and just trying to find a missing piece. Dalton is a man trying to act like he doesn’t need anybody himself, tries to put it out that he is not interested in marriage and it’s so far from the truth. Once Sage comes into the picture, he’s secretly trying to throw that out the window. He immediately wants to be her protector and more. He’s a single dad, grumpy, puts his family first. What more can you want from an MMC?!
Both hold secrets from the other, while Sage slowly shares those secrets with Dalton, he continues to keep secrets from Sage. This quickly becomes a problem from Sage, but it takes no time for her sister to bring it to her attention that Sage is just like Dalton and kept secrets from her.
The tension, the banter, the one bed situation, single dad, grumpy, phew! Thank you again JS Cooper for the opportunity to read this. It checked all my boxes and more! I’m even more excited for Brett and Rosie!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved Dalton and Sage! Here we have Sage trying to seem like she is a damsel in distress and needs a billionaire to make her life easier, but she doesn’t. She’s independent and just trying to find a missing piece. Dalton is a man trying to act like he doesn’t need anybody himself, tries to put it out that he is not interested in marriage and it’s so far from the truth. Once Sage comes into the picture, he’s secretly trying to throw that out the window. He immediately wants to be her protector and more. He’s a single dad, grumpy, puts his family first. What more can you want from an MMC?!
Both hold secrets from the other, while Sage slowly shares those secrets with Dalton, he continues to keep secrets from Sage. This quickly becomes a problem from Sage, but it takes no time for her sister to bring it to her attention that Sage is just like Dalton and kept secrets from her.
The tension, the banter, the one bed situation, single dad, grumpy, phew! Thank you again JS Cooper for the opportunity to read this. It checked all my boxes and more! I’m even more excited for Brett and Rosie!!
Review of advance copy
I honestly wasn't sure what to expect when I started this reading this one.
I mean, a woman purposely moving to a certain area, looking for a rich man to marry so she feels comfortable in life - can we say, "Gold digger?!"
Ms. Cooper definitely doesn't shy away from that assumption but she writes one entertaining story that will have you thinking twice about Sage and her "wants" in a man.
Sage has goals and is very protective of her sister. What she does not expect is Dalton to bring more chaos to her life. Dalton doesn't want a marriage, but he also doesn't want Sage dating anyone that he views as not good enough for her.
The banter between Sage and Dalton is probably the most entertaining part of this book. The chemistry is undefinable from the get-go but these two just play it off with their bickering and taunting of one another. I loved it!
I really enjoyed how this story flowed and nothing ever felt rushed or forced to happen. We do get some suspense piled in on this one, but it blends into the storyline well and just adds another layer to the overall story.
The Bluffing Game is a great start to Cooper's newest series.
I mean, a woman purposely moving to a certain area, looking for a rich man to marry so she feels comfortable in life - can we say, "Gold digger?!"
Ms. Cooper definitely doesn't shy away from that assumption but she writes one entertaining story that will have you thinking twice about Sage and her "wants" in a man.
Sage has goals and is very protective of her sister. What she does not expect is Dalton to bring more chaos to her life. Dalton doesn't want a marriage, but he also doesn't want Sage dating anyone that he views as not good enough for her.
The banter between Sage and Dalton is probably the most entertaining part of this book. The chemistry is undefinable from the get-go but these two just play it off with their bickering and taunting of one another. I loved it!
I really enjoyed how this story flowed and nothing ever felt rushed or forced to happen. We do get some suspense piled in on this one, but it blends into the storyline well and just adds another layer to the overall story.
The Bluffing Game is a great start to Cooper's newest series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews