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Women of W.A.R. #3
Fair Game
How to mend a broken heart...
Darcy Clarke would do anything to play for the new Women’s Aussie Rules league, even put up with her ex, Tony, who just happens to be the coach of the Brisbane Banshees. Tony stomped out of their apartment – and all over heart – two years ago, but she’s moved on, and she deserves her jersey.
As his best friend’s girl, Darcy has always been out of Levi’s reach, even after Tony dropped her and moved out of the apartment they all shared. Now, two years on and still sharing the same apartment, she should be fair game. But Levi is no closer to getting Darcy to think of him as anything but a roommate and a friend.
But when Darcy injures herself in play, Levi’s qualifications as a sports massage therapist are put to good use. Suddenly, their relationship becomes very hands on, and Darcy sees a whole new side of her old friend. A pity he seems immune to her charms. When Tony makes it clear he wants back into her life, she has a decision to make: between the man she once loved and the man who never left her side.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 20, 2018
About the author
Amy Andrews
436 books1,446 followersAmy is an award-winning, USA Today best-selling Aussie author who has written eighty-five contemporary romances in both the traditional and digital markets.
Her books bring all the feels from sass, quirk and laughter to emotional grit and panty-melting heat.
She loves good books and great booze although she'll take mediocre booze if there's nothing else. For many, many years she was a registered nurse which means she knows things. Anatomical things. And she’s not afraid to use them!
She recently took a sea change and lives by the ocean with her husband of 33 years.
Sign up for Amy's newsletter here - http://www.amyandrews.com.au/newslett...
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Her books bring all the feels from sass, quirk and laughter to emotional grit and panty-melting heat.
She loves good books and great booze although she'll take mediocre booze if there's nothing else. For many, many years she was a registered nurse which means she knows things. Anatomical things. And she’s not afraid to use them!
She recently took a sea change and lives by the ocean with her husband of 33 years.
Sign up for Amy's newsletter here - http://www.amyandrews.com.au/newslett...
Follow Amy -
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmyAndrewsAu...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyandrewsb...
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/amy-a...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 23, 2018
3.5 - ”I’m all for equal masturbation rights…” Stars!
The third book of the Women of W.A.R series stands head and shoulders above it’s predecessors, not a massive surprise to me though because Fair Game is penned by Amy Andrews, and in general this is an author that delivers for me when it comes to contemporary romance/erotica.
"Being with you on any level was better than not being with you at all…"
I won’t lie and say this is the best book she has ever written, but it was an easy-going read, about a couple who essentially both have the hots for each other but are frightened to admit it. That is until the villainous ex comes back into the picture, this pushes the adorable Levi Phillips to step out of his good-karma-yoga-zen mentality and go all alpha on Darcy Phillips, the woman of his dreams, seven years friendship and house share, five of which she spent with another guy, the last two they have both spent single.
This is a quick, easy, predictable read, the sexy-times are a little lower in quantity than you would find in a normal Andrews offering, but then it is not the longest book so to be expected. Worth a couple of hours of your time if you are a fan of this authors work.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
The third book of the Women of W.A.R series stands head and shoulders above it’s predecessors, not a massive surprise to me though because Fair Game is penned by Amy Andrews, and in general this is an author that delivers for me when it comes to contemporary romance/erotica.
"Being with you on any level was better than not being with you at all…"
I won’t lie and say this is the best book she has ever written, but it was an easy-going read, about a couple who essentially both have the hots for each other but are frightened to admit it. That is until the villainous ex comes back into the picture, this pushes the adorable Levi Phillips to step out of his good-karma-yoga-zen mentality and go all alpha on Darcy Phillips, the woman of his dreams, seven years friendship and house share, five of which she spent with another guy, the last two they have both spent single.
This is a quick, easy, predictable read, the sexy-times are a little lower in quantity than you would find in a normal Andrews offering, but then it is not the longest book so to be expected. Worth a couple of hours of your time if you are a fan of this authors work.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
January 20, 2018
I’m going to remember ‘Fair Game’ as one of Amy Andrews’s best. For not just the unusual portrayal of a hands-on, sporty, low-maintenance market gardener and the unusual man-bunned, sports therapist, yoga-loving man but also proving, in the world of alpha males and women who sometimes struggle to understand them, that non-stereotypical roles can not only function but function brilliantly.
Who would have thought that an understanding of anatomy would be so useful?
But the best of all? It doesn’t take a footy fan to understand the development of the relationship between Levi and Darcy; Andrews writes their friends-to-lovers journey with a sweet but raunchy and believable build-up, concentrating on characterisation instead, up to the point where you’re convinced that the clothes have to come off (and thankfully they finally do). Levi came across as one of the best top blokes - understanding, supportive and so thoughtful - I’ve had the privilege of reading about and while I didn’t exactly understand Darcy’s initial insistence that a relationship would detract from the many things that were going on in her life, I’m glad that this was resolved fairly easily and quickly with a conclusion that I thought could have benefitted from an epilogue.
Still, ‘Fair Game’ left me a happy camper and considering the reading slump I’ve been having so far, this just made my day.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
Who would have thought that an understanding of anatomy would be so useful?
But the best of all? It doesn’t take a footy fan to understand the development of the relationship between Levi and Darcy; Andrews writes their friends-to-lovers journey with a sweet but raunchy and believable build-up, concentrating on characterisation instead, up to the point where you’re convinced that the clothes have to come off (and thankfully they finally do). Levi came across as one of the best top blokes - understanding, supportive and so thoughtful - I’ve had the privilege of reading about and while I didn’t exactly understand Darcy’s initial insistence that a relationship would detract from the many things that were going on in her life, I’m glad that this was resolved fairly easily and quickly with a conclusion that I thought could have benefitted from an epilogue.
Still, ‘Fair Game’ left me a happy camper and considering the reading slump I’ve been having so far, this just made my day.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
February 20, 2018
Four and a half stars.
So, last year I got mentioned by Amy Andrews in her newsletter because of my comments on one of her books (and not in a good way), TBH I was flattered but it did make me hesitate over requesting this book from NetGalley - would I be disappointed by the sex to plot ratio? Good news for me, I lurved this book, maybe not so good for those who like Amy at her raunchiest ...
Anyway, this is the third book in the series Women of W.A.R. (Women's Australian Rules football), each book is by a different author, I loved the first book but wasn't thrilled by the blurb for the second so I gave it a miss but liked the blurb for this and, usually, love Amy Andrews' books so I requested it and I can confirm that you can easily read these books as stand-alone novels. The back-story (which is explained) is that a brand new women's league has been created and the women in each novel are players in the inaugural season.
Darcy Clarke has shared a house with Levi Phillips, her ex-boyfriend Tony's ex-friend, since she and Tony were an item and for two years after that. In a bit of a gender stereotype reversal Darcy has a hard physical job as a market-gardener (think lugging huge sacks of compost) and plays the physically demanding game of Australian Rules football (which is not soccer) whereas Levi is a yoga teacher and is all about the wheatgerm and eating clean. However, he is also a total hotty and just the descriptions of him and his messy man-bun brought me out in a hot flush (although these days walking upstairs does that too!).
Darcy and Levi have spent the last two years in a great platonic friendship, eating cheese and Vegemite toasties while watching Netflix on their giant sofa is their go-to evening in. But everything starts to change when Darcy finds out she has been selected to play for the Brisbane Banshees. Everything looks good until Darcy discovers that the coach for the Banshees is none other than her ex, Tony Cameron.
I'm not going to spoil the development of the romance between Darcy and Levi, I mean who doesn't love a friends to lovers novel? Let me just say, I loved Levi passionately, he was kind, generous and totally deserving of Darcy. The sex was hawt (fans self) AND romantic and totally balanced with the plot. I loved the camaraderie between the women on the team, the interactions with Tony were brilliantly done and never strayed into unrealistic territory.
Overall, this was sublime. After giving out two and a half stars left right and centre for most of 2018 so far it was a joy to read this fast-paced, funny and romantic novel - I only wish it had been twice as long!
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
So, last year I got mentioned by Amy Andrews in her newsletter because of my comments on one of her books (and not in a good way), TBH I was flattered but it did make me hesitate over requesting this book from NetGalley - would I be disappointed by the sex to plot ratio? Good news for me, I lurved this book, maybe not so good for those who like Amy at her raunchiest ...
Anyway, this is the third book in the series Women of W.A.R. (Women's Australian Rules football), each book is by a different author, I loved the first book but wasn't thrilled by the blurb for the second so I gave it a miss but liked the blurb for this and, usually, love Amy Andrews' books so I requested it and I can confirm that you can easily read these books as stand-alone novels. The back-story (which is explained) is that a brand new women's league has been created and the women in each novel are players in the inaugural season.
Darcy Clarke has shared a house with Levi Phillips, her ex-boyfriend Tony's ex-friend, since she and Tony were an item and for two years after that. In a bit of a gender stereotype reversal Darcy has a hard physical job as a market-gardener (think lugging huge sacks of compost) and plays the physically demanding game of Australian Rules football (which is not soccer) whereas Levi is a yoga teacher and is all about the wheatgerm and eating clean. However, he is also a total hotty and just the descriptions of him and his messy man-bun brought me out in a hot flush (although these days walking upstairs does that too!).
Darcy and Levi have spent the last two years in a great platonic friendship, eating cheese and Vegemite toasties while watching Netflix on their giant sofa is their go-to evening in. But everything starts to change when Darcy finds out she has been selected to play for the Brisbane Banshees. Everything looks good until Darcy discovers that the coach for the Banshees is none other than her ex, Tony Cameron.
I'm not going to spoil the development of the romance between Darcy and Levi, I mean who doesn't love a friends to lovers novel? Let me just say, I loved Levi passionately, he was kind, generous and totally deserving of Darcy. The sex was hawt (fans self) AND romantic and totally balanced with the plot. I loved the camaraderie between the women on the team, the interactions with Tony were brilliantly done and never strayed into unrealistic territory.
Overall, this was sublime. After giving out two and a half stars left right and centre for most of 2018 so far it was a joy to read this fast-paced, funny and romantic novel - I only wish it had been twice as long!
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
February 15, 2018
I requested this book because of reviews from two Goodreads friends. I’m so glad I did! I loved it!
Darcy Clarke is not a girly girl. She wears loose comfortable clothes and no makeup. She prefers junk food over healthy. She works for a market garden business doing manual labor and digging in the dirt. However, Darcy wants to play professional Aussie Rules women’s football.
Levi Phillips is a sports injury massage therapist who also teaches yoga, eats healthy and prefers comfort over form. He’s been attracted to Darcy for the last 7 years, but the last 2 have made him realize he loves her.
Darcy came to live with Levi when she and Tony moved in together. After 5 years of undermining her confidence, Tony pulls a dickhead move and leaves her. Darcy continues living with Levi. Over the next 2 years, they continue to become even closer friends. Levi is her staunchest supporter. Darcy doesn’t have time for a relationship or a social life because she is focused on making the women’s team and doesn’t want any distractions.
I am not a fan of the man bun, but Levi is so awesome, I overlooked his one flaw (IMO). He just got Darcy. He was patient, kind, understanding, supportive, encouraging and thoughtful. I struggled a little bit with Darcy’s insistence at keeping him at arm’s length. I loved how it was all resolved but really would have liked an epilogue. The ending was a little too abrupt for me.
The sex scenes? Fanning myself. The feelings and heat these two generate are amazing.
This is my first book by this author and I will be looking for more!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
Darcy Clarke is not a girly girl. She wears loose comfortable clothes and no makeup. She prefers junk food over healthy. She works for a market garden business doing manual labor and digging in the dirt. However, Darcy wants to play professional Aussie Rules women’s football.
Levi Phillips is a sports injury massage therapist who also teaches yoga, eats healthy and prefers comfort over form. He’s been attracted to Darcy for the last 7 years, but the last 2 have made him realize he loves her.
Darcy came to live with Levi when she and Tony moved in together. After 5 years of undermining her confidence, Tony pulls a dickhead move and leaves her. Darcy continues living with Levi. Over the next 2 years, they continue to become even closer friends. Levi is her staunchest supporter. Darcy doesn’t have time for a relationship or a social life because she is focused on making the women’s team and doesn’t want any distractions.
I am not a fan of the man bun, but Levi is so awesome, I overlooked his one flaw (IMO). He just got Darcy. He was patient, kind, understanding, supportive, encouraging and thoughtful. I struggled a little bit with Darcy’s insistence at keeping him at arm’s length. I loved how it was all resolved but really would have liked an epilogue. The ending was a little too abrupt for me.
The sex scenes? Fanning myself. The feelings and heat these two generate are amazing.
This is my first book by this author and I will be looking for more!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
March 1, 2018
I couldn’t relate or bond with the characters or warm up to the writing style.
Otherwise this was definitely a sweet realistic story.
Can see the MCs strolling on st Kilda beach holding hands, but I just couldn’t connect.
Safety:
HFN ending. I also didn’t enjoy the way heroine declared her love in the end.
Otherwise this was definitely a sweet realistic story.
Can see the MCs strolling on st Kilda beach holding hands, but I just couldn’t connect.
Safety:
HFN ending. I also didn’t enjoy the way heroine declared her love in the end.
February 17, 2018
I love Amy Andrews’s stories and this one is a beauty, hot, steamy and so very sensual and sporty to boot as well. MS Andrews knows how to write a story that is sure to pull the reader in from the first page, her characters are easy to like, and they are strong, smart and fabulous, this is the third book in this series about woman playing Aussie Rules in their first national competition and in this one we meet Darcy Clarke who has been picked to play for the Brisbane Banshees and we journey with her to an awesome HEA.
Darcy is over the moon at being picked for the team, she loves her footy and has put everything into it, she has been single for the last two years after her boyfriend Tony walked out on her, she is still sharing the apartment with Levi Phillips who was Tony’s best friend and for two years they have become close friends they are there for each other and he is so easy to talk to. Darcy is determined to focus on her footy and winning the grand final but when her ex Tony is appointed coach of the team she puts the past behind and looks to the future.
Levi is a physio therapist and yoga teacher he has a man bun and is gorgeous but he is calm, cool and collected but he has always had feelings for Darcy during the years that she was with Tony but in the last two years that they have become friends and he is biding his time to finally let her know how he feels after the footy season, he knows what it means to her. But fate steps in and with Tony pushing and an injury to Darcy things happen a bit faster than was planned.
This really is a fabulous friends to lovers story, I absolutely loved Levi what a sexy hero he is so loving, caring and thoughtful and yeh he knows how to make a girl smile and Darcy what a heroine truly when Levi opens up to her about his feelings although shocked she is in and opening up about her feelings as well they make the perfect couple. This story will make you laugh and smile the banter between Darcy and Levi is the best and the sensual romance and journey to that stupendous HEA is so very good, thank you MS Andrews for another keeper, I highly recommend this one.
Darcy is over the moon at being picked for the team, she loves her footy and has put everything into it, she has been single for the last two years after her boyfriend Tony walked out on her, she is still sharing the apartment with Levi Phillips who was Tony’s best friend and for two years they have become close friends they are there for each other and he is so easy to talk to. Darcy is determined to focus on her footy and winning the grand final but when her ex Tony is appointed coach of the team she puts the past behind and looks to the future.
Levi is a physio therapist and yoga teacher he has a man bun and is gorgeous but he is calm, cool and collected but he has always had feelings for Darcy during the years that she was with Tony but in the last two years that they have become friends and he is biding his time to finally let her know how he feels after the footy season, he knows what it means to her. But fate steps in and with Tony pushing and an injury to Darcy things happen a bit faster than was planned.
This really is a fabulous friends to lovers story, I absolutely loved Levi what a sexy hero he is so loving, caring and thoughtful and yeh he knows how to make a girl smile and Darcy what a heroine truly when Levi opens up to her about his feelings although shocked she is in and opening up about her feelings as well they make the perfect couple. This story will make you laugh and smile the banter between Darcy and Levi is the best and the sensual romance and journey to that stupendous HEA is so very good, thank you MS Andrews for another keeper, I highly recommend this one.
February 21, 2018
This was a great read. Darcy is a strong, determined woman who isn’t afraid to go after what she wants, while Levi is everything – supportive, sexy and awesome. It’s friends to lovers in the best way, and I really enjoyed it.
Neither Darcy nor Levi are your typical romance protagonists. She’s the sporty go-getter, while he’s the sexy support, she’s the one who’s been hurt by love and unwilling to be hurt again, while he’s been languishing for her in the background. They stand all the typical tropes on their heads and they do it brilliantly. Plus, underneath it all, they’re really good friends – who happen to share some scorching chemistry.
Best of all: Levi is willing to stand back and let Darcy achieve her dreams, putting her wants and needs way ahead of his own. And Darcy isn’t an idiot when it comes to Tony. That was the plot strand that made me most wary of this book, but I’m glad it once again didn’t go in the obvious direction.
Having said all that, I felt a bit let down by the conflict. I expected better of Darcy than what she does, and as cute as the making up was… I still wanted to slap her for some of the things she’d said.
Which is a shame, because the rest of this book is great. It’s hot, Darcy is kick-ass and Levi is amazing. It’s Amy Andrews doing what she does best and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
Neither Darcy nor Levi are your typical romance protagonists. She’s the sporty go-getter, while he’s the sexy support, she’s the one who’s been hurt by love and unwilling to be hurt again, while he’s been languishing for her in the background. They stand all the typical tropes on their heads and they do it brilliantly. Plus, underneath it all, they’re really good friends – who happen to share some scorching chemistry.
Best of all: Levi is willing to stand back and let Darcy achieve her dreams, putting her wants and needs way ahead of his own. And Darcy isn’t an idiot when it comes to Tony. That was the plot strand that made me most wary of this book, but I’m glad it once again didn’t go in the obvious direction.
Having said all that, I felt a bit let down by the conflict. I expected better of Darcy than what she does, and as cute as the making up was… I still wanted to slap her for some of the things she’d said.
Which is a shame, because the rest of this book is great. It’s hot, Darcy is kick-ass and Levi is amazing. It’s Amy Andrews doing what she does best and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
April 17, 2018
Another well written and steamy read from this Aussie author. I liked Levi's man bun and the fact he was a little different from the normal hero type. Also that Darcy worked in a gardening centre - normal jobs - not billionaires!!!
The scenes relating to Vlad were fun and I had a chuckle over those. I liked that the H/h's relationship was slow burn and they were best friends for most of the book. Great opening scene at the airport, by the way. I'm not a football lover, but the football did not overtake the story and I enjoyed reading about Darcy playing the game and her interaction with the other players. It was well balanced with the romance and did not detract from it.
My one negative comment however is about one particular piece of grammar. Several time I read :- "Her and Levi went/did etc". It should be :- "She and Levi went/did". The editor (Escape Publishing) should have corrected that. If you break the sentence into two parts it's easy to figure out which version is correct. eg-(Her went.../Levi went.../She went...) Although, sad to say, I'm reading that error a lot in contemporary books these days, as well as hearing it on TV (reporters) and in day to day conversation in general.
That said, I recommend this book and any book that Amy Andrews writes. 9/10 for a sizzling, entertaining read.
The scenes relating to Vlad were fun and I had a chuckle over those. I liked that the H/h's relationship was slow burn and they were best friends for most of the book. Great opening scene at the airport, by the way. I'm not a football lover, but the football did not overtake the story and I enjoyed reading about Darcy playing the game and her interaction with the other players. It was well balanced with the romance and did not detract from it.
My one negative comment however is about one particular piece of grammar. Several time I read :- "Her and Levi went/did etc". It should be :- "She and Levi went/did". The editor (Escape Publishing) should have corrected that. If you break the sentence into two parts it's easy to figure out which version is correct. eg-(Her went.../Levi went.../She went...) Although, sad to say, I'm reading that error a lot in contemporary books these days, as well as hearing it on TV (reporters) and in day to day conversation in general.
That said, I recommend this book and any book that Amy Andrews writes. 9/10 for a sizzling, entertaining read.
May 12, 2019
Not particularly well-written or well-executed. Big leaps in the timeline (days, weeks, months - especially in the beginning) and no sustainable conflict. The ex turned footy coach is a non-factor since the heroine repeatedly tells anybody with a heartbeat that she's over him. That leaves the conflict to the inability of both hero and heroine to OPEN THEIR MOUTHS AND JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER ALREADY OMG!!!! There's a "we're so hot for each other and have been celibate for so long let's just disregard using a condom" scene (these never fail to annoy me) and the heroine has a meltdown at the end to spur the romance towards the Black Moment that has her coming off as hysterical - but then we'd miss out on the completely eye-rolling declaration of love during the BIGGEST FOOTY MATCH OF HER CAREER. During the game's halftime no less.
Loosey-goosey writing and no emotional depth to the romance. The reader is TOLD the heroine's break-up with her ex devastated her, made her stronger but we don't actually SEE that. We're TOLD the hero has pined for her for years but I never saw or felt how these two characters were in love with each other. The very definition of mediocre.
On the bright side - I read it in one sitting.
Loosey-goosey writing and no emotional depth to the romance. The reader is TOLD the heroine's break-up with her ex devastated her, made her stronger but we don't actually SEE that. We're TOLD the hero has pined for her for years but I never saw or felt how these two characters were in love with each other. The very definition of mediocre.
On the bright side - I read it in one sitting.
March 2, 2018
Darcy Clarke’s dreams are coming true. She’s going to play for the Brisbane Banshees in the Women’s Australian Rules competition. The only cloud on the horizon? The new coach is her ex-boyfriend, who dumped her and broke her heart two years ago, and now seems to want back into her life and her bed!
Levi is her flatmate, the best friend whose shoulder she cried on when Tony broke her heart… and the guy she’s starting to realize she has feelings for beyond just friendship. Of course, she has no idea that Levi has been harbouring a crush on her ever since she was his best friend’s girl.
I’m not always a huge fan of friends-to-lovers romances (real-life bad experience!) but this was masterfully done, with lots of mutual pining and chemistry from both leads. There were a couple of really steamy sex scenes and a fabulous bit where Darcy told Tony in no uncertain terms what she thought of him. Levi was a gorgeous hero, the yoga instructor with a man-bun who is incredibly supportive of Darcy’s sporting career in a delightful role reversal to the usual tropes.
All of the books in this Women of W.A.R. series have featured some great female friendships, and I do hope the series doesn’t stop with these three books. There are plenty of characters here who could have great stories of their own. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these three, each of which can absolutely be read as a standalone story, and am happy to give this one five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
Levi is her flatmate, the best friend whose shoulder she cried on when Tony broke her heart… and the guy she’s starting to realize she has feelings for beyond just friendship. Of course, she has no idea that Levi has been harbouring a crush on her ever since she was his best friend’s girl.
I’m not always a huge fan of friends-to-lovers romances (real-life bad experience!) but this was masterfully done, with lots of mutual pining and chemistry from both leads. There were a couple of really steamy sex scenes and a fabulous bit where Darcy told Tony in no uncertain terms what she thought of him. Levi was a gorgeous hero, the yoga instructor with a man-bun who is incredibly supportive of Darcy’s sporting career in a delightful role reversal to the usual tropes.
All of the books in this Women of W.A.R. series have featured some great female friendships, and I do hope the series doesn’t stop with these three books. There are plenty of characters here who could have great stories of their own. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these three, each of which can absolutely be read as a standalone story, and am happy to give this one five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
February 2, 2018
This is another winner from Amy Andrews! A bit of a slow burn, but really satisfying (although maybe a little rushed?) at the ending .
Darcy has just been recruited for the first national Aussie Rules footy team (I wish this book came with a set of YouTube clips, by the way), and her coach is an ex-lover Tony. Don't worry, he's boring and not that important to the plot. The love interest is Levi, her roommate for the past 7 years! More importantly, he's a yoga instructor and has a man bun. FINE.
It's a total slow burn, he's been in love with her forever but doesn't want to ruin what they have. She's blissfully unaware of his interests, but has been noticing him more and more. This felt like a long delay to them hooking up, and then a pretty short turn around to the HEA. Nevertheless, a book I enjoyed, as always, by this author.
Darcy has just been recruited for the first national Aussie Rules footy team (I wish this book came with a set of YouTube clips, by the way), and her coach is an ex-lover Tony. Don't worry, he's boring and not that important to the plot. The love interest is Levi, her roommate for the past 7 years! More importantly, he's a yoga instructor and has a man bun. FINE.
It's a total slow burn, he's been in love with her forever but doesn't want to ruin what they have. She's blissfully unaware of his interests, but has been noticing him more and more. This felt like a long delay to them hooking up, and then a pretty short turn around to the HEA. Nevertheless, a book I enjoyed, as always, by this author.
January 25, 2018
Fair game by amy andrews.
Darcy clarke always wanted to play professional football. Now she gets her chance. Levi phillips has been trying to get with darcy but she keeps turning him down. Will they get together and fall in love with each other?
A very good read. I liked darcy. I liked the ending too. 4*.
Darcy clarke always wanted to play professional football. Now she gets her chance. Levi phillips has been trying to get with darcy but she keeps turning him down. Will they get together and fall in love with each other?
A very good read. I liked darcy. I liked the ending too. 4*.
January 26, 2018
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an ARC of Fair Game. As usual, Amy Andrews produces a book that is hot, hot, hot but full of emotional depth and intensity. It had me hooked from the first page. And the sexual tension... did I mention HOT?!
Read
February 21, 2018My first ever AFLW related romance title!
July 15, 2018
*SBTB Quarterly Challenge - August 4. A is for: Read a book where the author’s first or last name begins with A.*
Amy Andrews writes some of the best Aussie, sports, and short-form romances. And this one is no exception.
Positioning the leads as long time roommates, friends, with a long burning crush made the shorter length work. Both the characters were well fleshed out and felt real.
And the Brisbane setting shines through. If I would have known about hot dudes doing yoga on South Bank on Saturday mornings, I would have gotten up early when I lived there.
Its only fault is that I wanted more.
Amy Andrews writes some of the best Aussie, sports, and short-form romances. And this one is no exception.
Positioning the leads as long time roommates, friends, with a long burning crush made the shorter length work. Both the characters were well fleshed out and felt real.
And the Brisbane setting shines through. If I would have known about hot dudes doing yoga on South Bank on Saturday mornings, I would have gotten up early when I lived there.
Its only fault is that I wanted more.
February 20, 2018
At last, Darcy Clarke’s dream of playing professional football had come true. The new Women’s Aussie Rules league is now a reality, and nothing will dampen Darcy’s enthusiasm, not even the fact that her ex-boyfriend, Tony Cameron, is the team coach. Darcy is over him, but is Tony over her? Meanwhile, Darcy’s roommate of seven years, Levi Phillips, has been pining, and mentally damning Tony for the five years Tony and Darcy were together. Levi has been suffering from a huge case of unrequited love … or so he thought …
Amy Andrews. First, men’s rugby, now women’s Aussie rules football, and just as brilliant! I couldn’t wait to read this book, because a female athlete: please, give me more! I could so identity with Darcy; she was a heroine very close to my heart. I felt I experienced every one of her challenges; I wanted her to make it in football, I wanted her to see how much Levi loved her, I wanted her to have everything. And Levi? Best book boyfriend ever! Caring, considerate, attentive; there was not a sliver of the alpha a-hole manwhore in this superb hero. I was in heaven while reading FAIR GAME! I also Ms. Andrews’ depiction of Tony. I swooned, I bit my nails a bit, and Amy Andrews even made me giggle on a day that was not the happiest for me.
I loved the role reversals in FAIR GAME: how wonderful to read about a female athlete, one who really cares about her sport, whose sport is not a plot device but her reason for living. Levi is the massage therapist, and I also appreciated that there was no ethical fine line to be thread. I lived Levi and Darcy’s friendship as if it were my own; I loved the camaraderie between the female footballers; I loved how Levi and Darcy behaved like responsible adults in every aspect of their lives. Just a tiny little thing: would it be possible to have Genevieve’s story, even if only a short story, fifty pages? She was awesome! I just want more of the Women of W.A.R.
What more can I say? Super fast-paced; beautifully written as always; the sex scenes are steamy, passionate, and tender; the dialogues feel genuine, and the banter is great; and the romance happens in a realistic timeframe. FAIR GAME is yet another fabulous book by Amy Andrews!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Amy Andrews. First, men’s rugby, now women’s Aussie rules football, and just as brilliant! I couldn’t wait to read this book, because a female athlete: please, give me more! I could so identity with Darcy; she was a heroine very close to my heart. I felt I experienced every one of her challenges; I wanted her to make it in football, I wanted her to see how much Levi loved her, I wanted her to have everything. And Levi? Best book boyfriend ever! Caring, considerate, attentive; there was not a sliver of the alpha a-hole manwhore in this superb hero. I was in heaven while reading FAIR GAME! I also Ms. Andrews’ depiction of Tony. I swooned, I bit my nails a bit, and Amy Andrews even made me giggle on a day that was not the happiest for me.
I loved the role reversals in FAIR GAME: how wonderful to read about a female athlete, one who really cares about her sport, whose sport is not a plot device but her reason for living. Levi is the massage therapist, and I also appreciated that there was no ethical fine line to be thread. I lived Levi and Darcy’s friendship as if it were my own; I loved the camaraderie between the female footballers; I loved how Levi and Darcy behaved like responsible adults in every aspect of their lives. Just a tiny little thing: would it be possible to have Genevieve’s story, even if only a short story, fifty pages? She was awesome! I just want more of the Women of W.A.R.
What more can I say? Super fast-paced; beautifully written as always; the sex scenes are steamy, passionate, and tender; the dialogues feel genuine, and the banter is great; and the romance happens in a realistic timeframe. FAIR GAME is yet another fabulous book by Amy Andrews!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 24, 2018
Title: Fair Game
Series: Women of War Book #3
Stand Alone Title: yes
Author: Amy Andrews
Genre: Romance
Blurb: How to mend a broken heart...Darcy Clarke would do anything to play for the new Women’s Aussie Rules league, even put up with her ex, Tony, who just happens to be the coach of the Brisbane Banshees. Tony stomped out of their apartment – and all over heart – two years ago, but she’s moved on, and she deserves her jersey.
As his best friend’s girl, Darcy has always been out of Levi’s reach, even after Tony dropped her and moved out of the apartment they all shared. Now, two years on and still sharing the same apartment, she should be fair game. But Levi is no closer to getting Darcy to think of him as anything but a roommate and a friend.
But when Darcy injures herself in play, Levi’s qualifications as a sports massage therapist are put to good use. Suddenly, their relationship becomes very hands on, and Darcy sees a whole new side of her old friend. A pity he seems immune to her charms. When Tony makes it clear he wants back into her life, she has a decision to make: between the man she once loved and the man who never left her side.
Favorite quote(s)/excerpt(s): Christ, if she wanted d$@k, she could have his. God knew, it was hard as a freaking rock at the moment. Granted it wasn’t bright pink. Or as big. But it was flesh and blood. It was real. And he knew what to do with it.
Thoughts: It’s always interesting to read a book with strong, physical female sports figures, and this one added one of my favorite troupe’s – friends to lovers. Levi has a had a thing for Darcy for forever, but for the majority of it she was his best friend’s girl…then his ex-best friend’s girl……and then he got placed in the ‘friend zone’. What’s a guy to do? But with the dreaded ex lurking back on the horizon again, Levi has the push he needs to make their relationship more. As we all know, it’s not that easy to switch from friends to lovers….at least not without losing your friend in the process. Overall a pretty god friends-to-lovers book, particularly if you’re a fan of sports themed books.
Rating: B
Other books in this series: Game On by Nicola Marsh Long Game by Catherine Evans
Series: Women of War Book #3
Stand Alone Title: yes
Author: Amy Andrews
Genre: Romance
Blurb: How to mend a broken heart...Darcy Clarke would do anything to play for the new Women’s Aussie Rules league, even put up with her ex, Tony, who just happens to be the coach of the Brisbane Banshees. Tony stomped out of their apartment – and all over heart – two years ago, but she’s moved on, and she deserves her jersey.
As his best friend’s girl, Darcy has always been out of Levi’s reach, even after Tony dropped her and moved out of the apartment they all shared. Now, two years on and still sharing the same apartment, she should be fair game. But Levi is no closer to getting Darcy to think of him as anything but a roommate and a friend.
But when Darcy injures herself in play, Levi’s qualifications as a sports massage therapist are put to good use. Suddenly, their relationship becomes very hands on, and Darcy sees a whole new side of her old friend. A pity he seems immune to her charms. When Tony makes it clear he wants back into her life, she has a decision to make: between the man she once loved and the man who never left her side.
Favorite quote(s)/excerpt(s): Christ, if she wanted d$@k, she could have his. God knew, it was hard as a freaking rock at the moment. Granted it wasn’t bright pink. Or as big. But it was flesh and blood. It was real. And he knew what to do with it.
Thoughts: It’s always interesting to read a book with strong, physical female sports figures, and this one added one of my favorite troupe’s – friends to lovers. Levi has a had a thing for Darcy for forever, but for the majority of it she was his best friend’s girl…then his ex-best friend’s girl……and then he got placed in the ‘friend zone’. What’s a guy to do? But with the dreaded ex lurking back on the horizon again, Levi has the push he needs to make their relationship more. As we all know, it’s not that easy to switch from friends to lovers….at least not without losing your friend in the process. Overall a pretty god friends-to-lovers book, particularly if you’re a fan of sports themed books.
Rating: B
Other books in this series: Game On by Nicola Marsh Long Game by Catherine Evans
February 26, 2018
This was a wonderful book I really enjoyed it, I do not know anything about this sport but I LOVED the romance in this book
Darcy is over the moon at being picked for the team, she loves her footy and has put everything into it, she has been single for the last two years after her boyfriend Tony walked out on her, she is still sharing the apartment with Levi Phillips who was Tony’s best friend and for two years they have become close friends they are there for each other and he is so easy to talk to. Darcy is determined to focus on her footy and winning the grand final but when her ex Tony is appointed coach of the team she puts the past behind and looks to the future.
Levi is a physio therapist and yoga teacher he has a man bun and is gorgeous but he is calm, cool and collected but he has always had feelings for Darcy during the years that she was with Tony but in the last two years that they have become friends and he is biding his time to finally let her know how he feels after the footy season, he knows what it means to her. But fate steps in and with Tony pushing and an injury to Darcy things happen a bit faster than was planned.
Darcy is over the moon at being picked for the team, she loves her footy and has put everything into it, she has been single for the last two years after her boyfriend Tony walked out on her, she is still sharing the apartment with Levi Phillips who was Tony’s best friend and for two years they have become close friends they are there for each other and he is so easy to talk to. Darcy is determined to focus on her footy and winning the grand final but when her ex Tony is appointed coach of the team she puts the past behind and looks to the future.
Levi is a physio therapist and yoga teacher he has a man bun and is gorgeous but he is calm, cool and collected but he has always had feelings for Darcy during the years that she was with Tony but in the last two years that they have become friends and he is biding his time to finally let her know how he feels after the footy season, he knows what it means to her. But fate steps in and with Tony pushing and an injury to Darcy things happen a bit faster than was planned.
April 4, 2018
I like a good sports romance, but let's face it: they are mostly the same. It is hard to come up with new twists. So I was excited to see a series with women as the professional athletes. I also love Amy Andrews. I was not disappointed at all.
In fact, I thought Andrews went above and beyond with inverting the stereotypes but without banging on about it in obvious ways. For example, Levi is a caretaking kind of person who is concerned that he isn't very good at listening to his intuition and who understands that Darcy needs him to be patient. He's a fairly subtle mix of stereotype inversion and character building. He's just dreamy.
Darcy isn't exactly the stereotype of trying to be a man to be in a man's world. She isn't ashamed of crying occasionally. (I don't know what a corked thigh is, but I am pretty sure I would be bawling.) But she is trying to compartmentalize her life in the way men tend to do, and it doesn't work. Genevieve reminds her to handle things like a woman, and everything works out. I really liked Darcy and her courage -- especially at the end.
I loved this book and will definitely reread it.
In fact, I thought Andrews went above and beyond with inverting the stereotypes but without banging on about it in obvious ways. For example, Levi is a caretaking kind of person who is concerned that he isn't very good at listening to his intuition and who understands that Darcy needs him to be patient. He's a fairly subtle mix of stereotype inversion and character building. He's just dreamy.
Darcy isn't exactly the stereotype of trying to be a man to be in a man's world. She isn't ashamed of crying occasionally. (I don't know what a corked thigh is, but I am pretty sure I would be bawling.) But she is trying to compartmentalize her life in the way men tend to do, and it doesn't work. Genevieve reminds her to handle things like a woman, and everything works out. I really liked Darcy and her courage -- especially at the end.
I loved this book and will definitely reread it.
March 4, 2018
I enjoyed this, it is the first in the Women of W.A.R series I have read and will be checking out the others. Darcy has been drafted to the Women's AFL and has lots going on, her ex comes back into her life as the coach and is quite and unlikable guy. Her flatmate is secretly in love with her and when Darcy's ex returns to the picture he in pushed to make Darcy aware of his feelings, at the same time Darcy realises she may have feelings for him. I enjoyed the characters, the sex scenes and romance were fun and hot, a quick read, but a good one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Escape Publishing for a copy in return for an honest review
Thanks to NetGalley and Escape Publishing for a copy in return for an honest review
July 13, 2018
This novella was very fun.
January 23, 2018
Fair Game by Amy Andrews is a best friends to lovers read with many scorching moments. This is the third book on the Women of W.A.R series. A series that has showcased some likeable characters, including Darcy and Levi from this instalment by author Amy Andrews.
Review copy received from Escape Publishing via Netgalley
Review copy received from Escape Publishing via Netgalley
July 19, 2018
Another winner from Amy Andrews. I've really enjoyed every book of hers that I've read. I've been reading her Sydney Smoke series that features teammates on a male rugby team, so I was excited to read a book that featured a female Aussie Rules football player and I wasn't disappointed. Darcy was a great heroine - strong, determined, talented, and overjoyed to finally realize her dream of playing for a professional ball club. Meanwhile, Levi was a wonderful hero, a genuinely nice guy who was so supportive of her dreams and her lifestyle. I also loved that she didn't waste any time on her ex and his mind games and she didn't let him drag her down.
July 11, 2018
I am a fan of Amy Andrews contemporary romances, and I love a good sports romance, so I was very much looking forward to this series. Not surprisingly this was my favourite novella of the three - a great unrequited love story! Levi was adorable, Darcy was a focused kick-ass athlete, and I loved their dynamic and relationship. Overall a great, quick read. I would highly recommend checking out Game On (Women of W.A.R.) as well!
April 17, 2018
Sexy and fun, I have the other two books in the series too. My only complaint is that I'd like to see some wlw protagonists!
July 7, 2018
Meh? They should both learn how to use their words.
January 16, 2019
It’s riddled with typos, but I really enjoyed this book. The hero is so sweet.
Read
November 4, 2021DNF. No reason why these two can't be together which took me out of the story... Didn't work for me unfortunately.
June 27, 2019
I would like to thank netgalley and Escape Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Interesting to see a sports romance where the heroine is the athlete, though the ending was a bit of a let down.
Interesting to see a sports romance where the heroine is the athlete, though the ending was a bit of a let down.
April 13, 2025
This was my first Women of W.A.R. read—and my first rugby read! It was a short read featuring a strong female lead who finds herself and her passion after a breakup. It is a romance between two rugby lovers secretly into each other and too scared to admit it.
Was it groundbreaking and memorable? *frowning head shake*
Darcy Clarke - 8/10
Our strong a*** FMC is getting her chance to play professional women's rugby with the Brisbane Banshees, but the new coach is the last man she dated, Tony, who didn't leave things well. Darcy has worked HARD to be where she is today—both in terms of her favorite sport and picking up the pieces after Tony left. She lives with Tony's former best friend, Levi, even though it has been years since Tony was in either of their lives.
Overall, I liked her character- specifically her drive and leadership inside her team. However… I felt like she didn’t stand out as a character beyond her love of rugby. I would have loved to hear more about how she got there, what she was doing to promote rugby, and more about the other girls. While the sportsmanship was mentioned, it wasn’t enough for me. This is a professional women’s sport! Let's give that some more time.
My favorite quote from the book captures what I wanted more of in this read. I loved Darcy's drive and love for the sport. I want to know how she put herself back together. I want to know how she grew.
Levi Phillips- 6/10
Our MMC is a sports physical therapist and yogi who helps care for his female remate's body when she gets injured. He has been secretly in love with her for years and is waiting for the perfect moment to tell her.
While I thought he was sweet, I found him too soft and passive. He is constantly reaching for perfection, trying to make things perfect instead of enjoying the moment they are in. I worry about the longevity of this relationship simply because he seems to live in his head. I can't see the passive to alpha transition being a character trait that ages well for him without bringing up other conflicts.
Overall, I would pick up this read again. It was cute and predictable. I don’t think I would recommend it to a friend unless they played women’s rugby.
Romance - 2/5
Overall read - 2.5/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Escape Publishing for giving me a free copy in exchange for a review. I'm sorry I missed the requested reading window & am thankful to the Seattle Library for having a copy of the ebook available on Libby.
Was it groundbreaking and memorable? *frowning head shake*
Darcy Clarke - 8/10
Our strong a*** FMC is getting her chance to play professional women's rugby with the Brisbane Banshees, but the new coach is the last man she dated, Tony, who didn't leave things well. Darcy has worked HARD to be where she is today—both in terms of her favorite sport and picking up the pieces after Tony left. She lives with Tony's former best friend, Levi, even though it has been years since Tony was in either of their lives.
Overall, I liked her character- specifically her drive and leadership inside her team. However… I felt like she didn’t stand out as a character beyond her love of rugby. I would have loved to hear more about how she got there, what she was doing to promote rugby, and more about the other girls. While the sportsmanship was mentioned, it wasn’t enough for me. This is a professional women’s sport! Let's give that some more time.
‘Nothing distracts me when my world is in balance.’ (98%)
My favorite quote from the book captures what I wanted more of in this read. I loved Darcy's drive and love for the sport. I want to know how she put herself back together. I want to know how she grew.
Levi Phillips- 6/10
Our MMC is a sports physical therapist and yogi who helps care for his female remate's body when she gets injured. He has been secretly in love with her for years and is waiting for the perfect moment to tell her.
While I thought he was sweet, I found him too soft and passive. He is constantly reaching for perfection, trying to make things perfect instead of enjoying the moment they are in. I worry about the longevity of this relationship simply because he seems to live in his head. I can't see the passive to alpha transition being a character trait that ages well for him without bringing up other conflicts.
Overall, I would pick up this read again. It was cute and predictable. I don’t think I would recommend it to a friend unless they played women’s rugby.
Romance - 2/5
Overall read - 2.5/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Escape Publishing for giving me a free copy in exchange for a review. I'm sorry I missed the requested reading window & am thankful to the Seattle Library for having a copy of the ebook available on Libby.
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