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Fair Game

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In her designer shoes and power suits, Vivien Monroe couldn’t be more out of place in the video game company she inherited from her eccentric father. Not only does she have to sort out her father’s last request and deal with a younger sister she barely knows, she has to go toe-to-toe with her father’s protégé—a man who makes her think about the last thing she should be thinking about right now.

With his thick-framed glasses and graphic tees, Liam Bennett is the exact opposite of what she needs right now. His relaxed, out-of-the-box attitude reminds her too much of her father’s more exasperating quirks, but his dedication and quiet stubbornness begin to drive her crazy in a completely different way.
 
All Vivien wants is to get back to her life in New York, but someone is stealing the company’s best game ideas, and an FBI agent is sniffing around. She’ll save her father’s legacy for her sister and then she’s out of there—if she can leave Liam behind.

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Taylor Lunsford

11 books17 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,670 reviews3,288 followers
June 2, 2018
3 Everything Not as It Seems Stars
* * * Spoiler Free
From first glance, Vivien Monroe and Liam Bennett seem about as opposite as two people can get.
She is a woman who is hardcore business with the power suits, designer shoes and attitude to match.
She has had to be that way...

Liam Bennett is kick back, passionate in his creativity with computer games and is focused on letting things work themselves out if necessary...He is brilliant, carrying about his family and just an all around good guy...

Liam's laid back ways are also just like the father's who never made Vivien feel she counted... or was truly loved. Her younger sister was the one who benefited from the father's warmth....and now with the passing of her dad, it seems like a cruel joke he left his beloved video gaming company to her to save for the younger sister she doesn't even communicate with...Hah!

So Vivien has her hands full and wants to get the company on track, make sure things are solid, have her sister's interests secure and then get the hell out of Dodge...

But there are a few things that are stopping her...
Like someone is stealing the company's ideas and rushing them to market...
And somehow there is this FBI agent always around and hinting maybe her father's death wasn't exactly how she thought...

And then there is Liam...feelings are developing and she doesn't know what to do with them...well, she knows...but could there ever be any type of future there...after all he is just so different from what she is use to...

This book had a dash of everything to keep you interested...the chemistry was there with a story to boot.

A gifted copy was provided by Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Jeannine.
1,364 reviews45 followers
March 28, 2018
I really liked the sound of this book. Nerdy tech guy and a busy business woman taking over her fathers company. There was some mystery involved, a whole "who done it" type of story line. It was pretty obvious right from the start. I really liked Liam. Vivien was a wee bit too whiny for my taste. She has a few daddy issues and she's a runner. It was a decent story. I did think it dragged on in a part or two. But other than that, it took me a couple of hours to read it.

*ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review*
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,863 reviews1,574 followers
April 9, 2018
I thought this novel was completely adorable! Liam and Vivien were very cute and sexy and it was refreshing to read a non-traditional "dorky" hero who wasn't "alpha to the core." He was sweet and sensitive and a perfect match to Vivien's serious nature. I also enjoyed the mystery aspect of the story as I thought it brought an added flair to the story.

All in all this was a fun story. I would like to thank Netgalley and Entangled for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. 3.5 stars! ~Ratula
Profile Image for Allie.
168 reviews7 followers
April 23, 2018
Later Alpha Males, Nerd Boy is here! While I love the Alpha Male as much as the next girl there is something unreasonably sexy about a guy who loves his mom, his dog, and is willing to let his girl do things her way (unless she's really screwing things up). Not that Vivian is the type of woman who would let a guy take over I love how Liam offers support and assistance without sweeping in and solving the problem. Girl Power!

Liam and Viv throw sparks like the 4th of July from the first meeting and don't disappoint. Their different styles and personalities match in a way you wouldn't expect them to without feeling forced or awkward. A perfectly paced romance with elements of suspense this book does not disappoint. Taylor Lunsford is now a permanent fixture on my One-Click list.
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,900 reviews139 followers
April 28, 2018
Rating: 3.5/5

This is a romance between a nerdy computer game geek, Liam Hale, and a lady dressed for power, Vivien Monroe, who really doesn’t want to be there. Actually she’s someone still coping with her father’s apparent rejection of her after her mother died giving birth to her much adored, can do no wrong, sister. She’s surprised when she inherits her father’s beloved video game company. She has to sort out her father’s last request and try to communicate with her sister who she really doesn’t know. Add on to that list her father’s protégé, Liam Hale, and she’s definitely not a happy young lady. Now have someone stealing their company’s new game release info and producing copy cat games and she’s going to be struggling even more!

This had the potential to be a 5* story - great plot, intriguing relationships, industrial espionage and romance. The interpersonal relations - or lack of them - is a key feature of this story. Both Vivien and her sister, Greer, have had little to do with each other and both seem too stubborn to give the other a chance. Despite this, Vivien is determined to ensure the business is in great shape for Greer and the only person she trusts to ensure this is herself - even though she knows little about the actual video game industry. There are lots of secrets being kept, especially concerning the FBI involvement and suspicions around how her father died. It just didn’t seem right that she wasn’t told about such matters! Having said that, Liam has to be acknowledged as a brilliant character, excellently portrayed and brought to life in the story. His relationship with his Mum is so good! There are enough red herrings and mysteries to keep you page turning as the story progresses.

This is a fun read, a romance with the added intrigue and family drama.   

I requested and was given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Neal.
1,888 reviews153 followers
April 30, 2018
Vivien is all about her lifestyle requiring power suits and designer shoes, which means she does not fit in at a video game company. Unfortunately for her, she needs to because her dad left her his. Now she's not only struggling to adapt to this new part of her life, but a sister she barely knows and the guy her dad was mentoring. All this while dealing with her own emotional baggage where her dad is concerned.

Liam is the epitome of gamer nerd with his thick glasses and graphic t-shirts. His calm personality that prefers to go with the flow is exactly how Vivien's dad lived and it drove her nuts. But that's not all there is to Liam. He's focused, loyal, dedicated, stubborn, and oh so sexy.

Liam and Vivien may clash in almost all ways, but their chemistry shows they're very compatible. However, both believe nothing can come of their time together as Vivien craves her old life and Liam can't thrive in it. As they work together and continue getting to know one another, they must find out who is stealing game ideas from the company and why. Liam and Vivien also must deal with the FBI agent hanging around and determine whether what they've found with one another is worth changing everything they thought they knew about themselves.

Can Vivien uncover who betrayed her father's trust? Will Vivien and her sister forge a relationship after the tragedy of losing their dad? Can Liam break through Vivien's walls? Will Liam and Vivien take a chance and fully explore their connection? Or is their time together only temporary? Is a HEA possible for two people so seemingly different?

One-click now and follow along as opposites really do attract.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Profile Image for Kristy.
1,432 reviews184 followers
June 26, 2018
3.5 Stars

When Vivien inherits a video game company from her semi-estranged father, her goal is to get in and get out as soon as possible. She doesn’t count on Liam, a nerdy executive who was close to her father, her sister Greer, with whom she has a lot of unresolved issues with, and a mysterious person(s) who’s been stealing from the company and now threatening her.

My favorite thing about Fair Game was the slow burn romance between Vivien and Liam and how they worked through things by communicating and listening. Yes, they had their problems, especially when both of their pasts make them weary of relationships, but overall it was nice to see a relationship where they didn’t just sleep together to solve their problems.

I know what it’s like to constantly butt heads with a sibling and to have grown up in the same house but with such different childhoods. I thought Vivien’s and Greer’s relationship portrayed the rockier side of sibling relationships well and if this turns into a series (I have an inkling it might), I hope we can continue to see them grow.

Lastly, I loved that a dose of mystery and suspense was thrown in here. It added some good scenes and made it more than just your typical contemporary romance. In a world of cookie-cutter contemporaries, Fair Game broke the mold in many ways.
Profile Image for Lauren.
1,030 reviews100 followers
May 21, 2018
*4.5 stars*

I requested Fair Game on a whim. I hadn't heard anything about Taylor Lunsford and/or Fair Game before, but the synopsis had me intrigued. A video game company seemed like a unique setting, and I wanted to know more about the FBI agent. Why were they snooping around?!

The Result? I can't believe I waited so long to read Fair Game, as it is SO GOOD! Addicting as well as fast paced, Fair Game introduces not only a swoony romance but also strong, kick-a$$ characters AND an exciting, suspenseful mystery!

On the surface, Vivien seems like the ultimate ice queen. She's cold and uninviting. She doesn't want to make small talk and, most importantly, she doesn't want to dwell on the past. While I wanted her to give her family and the company a chance, I could completely understand her actions. I would've been just as angry as Vivien was if I was in her shoes. It wasn't cool what her father did after her mother died, pulling away from Vivien while in the process becoming closer and closer to her sister. I think it would be easy to develop resentment. As the book progresses, however, Vivien begins to loosen up (thanks to Liam!), and I adored the "new" Vivien. She was just as tough and fearless as before, but she now had some more heart, some more compassion. She focused on fixing past relationships with her sister and best friend and she even dove into some new relationships. It wasn't an instantaneous fix, and that's what made it more believable, in my opinion. Vivien is someone you can't help but root for. I wanted her to find her family as well as peace, and if she found romance on the way...well, I wouldn't be complaining.

The best way to describe Liam? An adorable and sexy nerd! As soon as he was introduced, I knew I was going to love him. I loved how passionate he was about his work, especially when it came to keeping the company the way Vivien's father envisioned it. He was a trustworthy guy, one you would want on your side no matter what. I also adored how nerdy he could get. He loved his video games - that's for sure - and he wasn't willing to hide that love for anyone even someone as icy as Vivian. What I liked the most about Liam, however, was how positive and go-with-the-flow he was. He was always willing to see the best in everyone. Some people wouldn't have tried so hard with Vivien, but her personality and the wall she had built didn't detour him.

Fair Game mainly focuses on Vivien's return to Texas. She had a lot on her plate, such as finding a new CEO, discovering who was leaking their new games to other companies, and dealing with all the people that get in her way in the process. I'll admit that I was slightly worried about the video game focus. I've never been big on video games, and I don't know the first thing about them; however, my lack of knowledge didn't hinder my enjoyment one bit. Vivien turned out to be the same way I was. Additionally, I loved the mole storyline. It was suspenseful, and while the bad guy was apparent from the start, it didn't dull my enjoyment one bit. Instead, the mystery focused on finding the evidence, which was harder to find than one would expect. I also liked how Taylor used the mole storyline to increase Vivien's interest in the company and her family. I enjoyed seeing Vivien became so determined to save the day, slowly understanding why Liam and her sister would do anything for the company in the process. Last but not least, the romance between Liam and Vivien? One of the best parts! I loved how they started as frenemies and slowly morphed into something else, as not only did it bring about some excellent tension but also some great banter. They had an easy, natural relationship as the book progressed.

Overall, Fair Game is an exciting new romance, perfect for fans who love their romance with a side of sabotage. This may be my first book by Taylor but it certainly won't be my last!

*ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

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Profile Image for Claire - The Coffeeholic Bookworm.
1,257 reviews109 followers
June 17, 2018
A romance between a nerd and the Ice Queen - this was a really promising read.

Vivien had come back to Monroe Tech, her father's company that she had early on despised. Jed Monroe built this gaming tech company for his family, but his daughter Vivien didn't share his sentiments.  She wasn't even able to attend Jed's funeral because she prioritized her work in New York than take part in her father's legacy. Until the reading of his will prompted her to go back and run the company that was rightfully hers and act as the big sister to Greer, the sister she hadn't built connection over the years. 

And then there's Jed's boy genius, the protege, Liam Hale, who was supposed to be the next CEO of the company. Confident, smart, power-driven, dedicated and a dog lover - qualities of a man she should be patronizing and campaign for. Plus, he was ridiculously hot, gorgeous and sexy. Definitely boss-worthy. But wait, there's more.. Why was his ex-girlfriend slash beautiful FBI agent  poking her nose in her father's company? And why was there any kind of investigation happening in her father's death? 

This has been quite a story, a little dragging at the beginning, but definitely picked up the pace towards the latter part of the book. I can't say I like Vivien Monroe, this woman was too tough and hard to love. She was like a force of a thousand suns, too fastidious and worked up. She had put a wall around herself and never trusted herself to get clingy or associated with anything that composed of family. She had been hurt when her father wasn't there for her during her mother's demise, so it was understandable how she wasn't completely happy upon her return to MT. But she repeatedly thought about that instance every time she had to deal with Liam and her sister Greer. I was really getting annoyed at her for all the negative vibes surrounding her. I wasn't a big fan of her, really. I prefer the younger sister better, who was not only full of snark and drive, but also innocent and loving and caring at the same time. 

The mystery surrounding the company and her uncle's scheming candor was a little predictable, from the moment his involvement was mentioned. The other characters provided better entertainment and juice in the story and made Vivien's character more tolerable. 

Now, Liam, Liam, Liam. This computer geek with chic is definitely a heart-stopper. I'm all for nerds and smart bespectacled guys, I found them rather cute and exciting and have lots to offer than those corporate billionaire alphas. Liam Hale surpasses them in his own unique geeky way. He was the driving force that Vivien needed to stand her ground and see what was missing in her life. I loved Liam from the moment he brought his dog Flynn to work. A nerd with his trusted dog, now that's a sight to behold. 

Fair Game is a fairly good story especially to gaming enthusiasts and mystery romance lovers like me. Taylor Lunsford's writing was notably remarkable and provided enough mystery to get her readers going.
Profile Image for Anne .
468 reviews73 followers
April 5, 2018
"A very adorkable read."

This is one of the reasons why I love Entangled Publishing. They produce books that does not stick to traditional romance style. They allow their authors to add their own flavor in the story to make it more tasteful.

With this book by author Taylor Lunsford, she offers her readers a story that's more than just a romance but a story of how two different people find a way to connect with each other no matter what their differences may be.

In the story, Vivien, the Ice princess was forced to fill-in the position his father vacated after his sudden tragic death. The ice princess wanted nothing yo do with it since she loathed her father for a long time now and that she's not interested in something that she felt like have stolen her father from her childhood. There she met the resident nerd boy (Clark Kent version, so he's yummy) Liam and his dog who welcomed her on her first arrival in the company for a dreaded board meeting. From there, things come spiraling uncontrollably with death threats hanging over her and her sister's head. She also learned that there has been a foul play in the company and probably on her father's death. During all those time, Liam stood by her, supporting her everytime.

I loved the characters as well as the story build-up. This has been so right up my alley. The main characters may be poles apart but they work. I love how the circumstances brought them closer together.

Finding the perpetrator with death threats lopming around them, I love how the author played the story. The character development as well as the story's are what kept me hanging on in every page of the book.

My first book from the author and certainly not the only book I'll have from her.

Thank you again to the publisher, Entangled: Amara, to the author Taylor Lunsford and NetGalley for a chance to review this.

*I voluntary read an advance review copy. All thought and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Bette Hansen.
5,073 reviews40 followers
April 22, 2018
Not a bad read. In fact I liked the overall premise. Geeky tech guy Liam Bennett having to deal with uptight new owner Vivien Monroe. Someone who knows nothing about the gaming business. Unfortunately Vivien drove me crazy. She really wants nothing to do with the business yet she won't just let Liam handle things. She feels she needs to stay involved and save the business for her sister. She just whines a little too much for my taste. Instead of fighting with Liam she should have embraced his knowledge. There is a nice little opposite attract romance with a bit of mystery thrown in to keep things interesting. If I had liked the characters a bit more this would have been quite enjoyable so based on this I would have to recommend.
Profile Image for Ayekah.
1,123 reviews
April 5, 2018
I wanted to like this one so much. There is a good plot in place and I really liked Liam, resident computer geek. I didn't care for Vivien for a variety of reasons. Her younger sister who she really didn't have a relationship with Greer didn't work for me at all. I think it was that both women were too superficial and had a hard time relating to them. Lastly the book was too long for it's own good.
Could have been so much better in a shorter version. It was fairly predictable and that was ok. I'm just thankful for Liam in this one.

**advanced copy from NetGalley and Entangled for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,842 reviews18 followers
March 31, 2018
Fair Game by Taylor Lunsford an adorkable four-star read. This is the first read by this author and I sure I will be waiting on reading more, I’m married to a nerd so this story was one that I knew I needed to have in my life, I will admit I have a soft spot for nerds in my heart and Liam Bennett may just be pushed to the top, the author manages to describe him in such detail that you can really imagine him, but it’s not so in depth and detailed that you lose interest half way through. He is a great character hunky and sweet, what more could you want from in a man. Vivian Monroe was a good character but there was something amiss, she had a hard story to tell and the author did a very good job but I do feel more detail could have been put in just to tie up a few loose ends. But that is just my option and many others will not agree. Overall this is a great fun and sweet read, with an underlying story of intrigue and drama who done it, and will we find out in the end? If you are in the mood for some geeky love and drama, then you won’t go wrong with this story.
Profile Image for books are love.
3,190 reviews23 followers
June 17, 2018
When I began the book I honestly did not like Vivian. I thought she was stuck up and was looking down at those at MT and her sister. She was so angry and defensive. She had an issue with Liam before meeting him due to this anger and where it stems from. Heck she didn’t even want to be around anyone at MT or get to know them. She ran from relationships and people. Only buried herself in her work. As the story went on you see that she is more complex but takes awhile to get used to.

Liam on the other hand loved from the moment I read about him. He was kind, patient,giving and passionate. He loved his work and the people he worked with. The buying his mom a home near him so he could have her around and check on her swoony but the stepbrother deal really cements it so does his puppy FLynn. The way he intuitively put people at ease and didn’t treat them like they were commodities but people to listen to and share successes and failures with was amazing. How he was with Greer and the situation ahead of him was awesome as well. Greer for him was a little sister and he loved and protected her like one while still respecting her and her talent. So meeting Greer’s sister and seeing her anger and serious business attitude must have been a shocker but he took it in stride. He was patient and understanding with her. He knew what she needed and didn’t push. This was Liam he respected others and their boundaries, knew what they needed and when and was there for them when they needed someone. He was so loving and caring. He was also, with Eli taking on the weight of the world and the company as well. When Vivian came in he was honest with her and told her about the game copying. Just left out the investigation into her dad’s death-knowing it would push her to far.

In the weeks, Vivian was there she got the company to be more orderly without losing its edge. The investigation was moving along and security was being ramped up. The threats though increased. As did her attraction to Liam and his to her. We see Sophia-the FBI agent and Liam’s ex-begin to see Liam’s suspensions as one to take seriously. We see VIvian open up to Liam and them start a steamy affair. Only this doesn’t always go as planned for Vivian’s need for control and to keep him in a box doesn’t always meet with his passionate and kind side. When things hit a climax and wowza do we get one-Vivian makes a choice that hurts those around her and sets her relationship with her sister that is already wary at best down a spiral that is hard to stop.

Only Eli,Greer and Liam soldier on and find a way to prove what and who is behind the wanting to destroy MT. And vivian realizes her mistake and comes back to help. Her and Liam are on shaky ground because she hurt him but his love for her knows why and he is amazing here as well. I love the trap they set and how the mouse took the cheese and got caught.

The story was really well written and nicely paced. You get the right ratio of romance to suspense that it keeps you on the edge of your seat while heating it up at the same time. We get a glimpse of another romance in the horizon with Eli and Greer but also at a family splintered come together and a woman learn to forgive and move forward learning what family and love means and finding it in Liam and her sister.
Profile Image for Bec.
1,661 reviews42 followers
May 5, 2018

Vivien Monroe can't believe she's inherited her father's company, not when they were estranged for years. Yet, she's determined to do what's right for the company and the sister she barely knows. Luckily, she's got an ally in her father's protégé since the company is facing trouble with someone stealing the company's gaming ideas, which has drawn the attention of an FBI agent determined to find the culprit. Will Vivien be able to save her family's legacy, have a better relationship with her sister and then leave or will she realize that being back in Texas is the best thing that's happened to her in a long time?

This was such an interesting and riveting read, of which I loved it from the very beginning, as the heroine can't believe she's in the situation she's in since she didn't have a good relationship with her father and finds it hard to understand why he made the decision he did. Will she be able do turns things around for the company and make sure the FBI finds what they need to take down whoever is sabotaging the company? Will Vivien stay and get to know her sister better or will she return to her old life? However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine meet that had me reading quickly, determined to discover whether the heroine will give Liam a chance since he knows a lot about the company and could be a very good ally.

As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories, what the heroine faces with the trouble someone is determined to cause and I could understand why the heroine feels the way she does about being back home. Her relationship with her father was strained. Why did her father treat her the way he did? Why was it really hard for her father to be around her? Moreover, both the main characters were fantastic and I loved how determined the hero was to help the heroine, especially because not only does the company need her but so does Vivien's sister who she doesn't have a very close relationship. Will she ever have a close relationship with her sister?

With the heroine, she's resilient, courageous, hard-working and I liked that she was willing to do everything she can to make sure everything is running smoothly with the company before she makes any big decisions. I also liked that she gave the hero a chance, even though it's not easy for her to trust after everything she went through with her last relationship. While the hero, he's a good guy in the way he's determined to make the heroine see how good she is for the company. He can be persuasive and isn't afraid to push Vivien when he thinks she needs it. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero is how supportive he was of not only the heroine but also her sister who definitely needs his support just as much as Vivien.

Overall, Ms. Lunsford has delivered a very good read in this book where emotions run high at times; the chemistry between Vivien and Liam was strong; the romance was deliciously hot with the hero determined to show the heroine how much he wants her; and the ending had me liking how brave the heroine was in doing everything she could to make things right with everyone she's let down, especially Liam and her sister. How could she live with herself if she didn't do everything she could to save the company from someone determined to use it for their own personal gain? Will the FBI get their man with Vivien's help? However, it was how things turned out for the hero and heroine that had me cheering because they're good together and nothing should keep them apart. I would recommend Fair Game by Taylor Lunsford, if you enjoy boss-employee romances, the friends to lovers trope, or books by authors Tonya Burrows, Cathy Skendrovich, Allison B. Hanson and Claudia Shelton.
Profile Image for Lauren loves llamas.
849 reviews110 followers
April 24, 2018
A nerdy romance involving a video game company? Heck yeah! This simultaneously cute and angsty romance between an Ice Queen and her Nerd Boy was so much fun to read.

“She knew where she stood in the corporate setting, knew how to stay in control and get shit done. But here? In the place that had eaten up every waking moment of her dad’s life from the day her mother died? She’d spent so long resenting this place she didn’t know where to begin.”


Vivien was angsty and troubled, and with good reason, as she’s being forced into temporarily taking over the family company as CEO after her father’s death. Returning to Texas for two weeks to appoint a new CEO was a hardship for her, both because her job in NYC couldn’t seem to understand the purpose of bereavement leave and leave her alone and also because it brought back bad memories of being ignored by her father, Jed, in favor of the company or her sister, Greer. The last thing she expected was to fall for Liam, the creative director and her father’s star employee. Liam was such a cute, nerdy cinnamon roll. He’s handsome, smart and he knows how to cook – how could anyone resist? I certainly can’t – I married one! I thought he was also exceedingly patient with Vivien, especially given her tendency to run away when things get uncomfortable for her (one of my personal pet peeves).

As the story progresses, we find out more about Vivien and Jed’s relationship. One of my favorite parts was the revelation of how differently the main characters viewed Jed – Vivien, Liam and Greer have each had such different experiences with him, and each experience is treated as valid. I also liked watching Vivien and Greer try to figure out how to have a real relationship.

While the character development was great, the weakest part of the story was the mystery. It was hit-you-over-the-head obvious who the villain was. I also didn’t care for the fact that Liam kept a very important bit of information from Vivien. I understood his reasons – and even Vivien agreed with them in the end! – but I’m not a fan of the keeping-things-from-the-hero/heroine trope, and I was glad that it didn’t play that much of a part in the big misunderstanding.

Overall, though, I enjoyed this very much, and I’m hoping that there will be a sequel with Greer! If you like nerdy cinnamon roll heroes and lots of angst, you’ll love this book!

I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
1,744 reviews15 followers
June 13, 2022
I thought this was a cute romantic story. There is Vivien Monroe, the eldest daughter of Jed Monroe the head of Monroe Tech. A company Jed set up for his family to keep his idea of gaming going and to have something for both of his daughters to run after he is gone. She has a younger sister Greer who she had not knowing that she had cancer. She found out she had cancer after having Greer when she spotted a lump. Then they have an Uncle Baron, her mother's brother who wants to be CEO of their father's company for some reason, that is to be discovered when you read this book. At first, I just liked this book but the more I read I loved it. We Liam Hale the VP Game Development and Vivien's father's mentee. Liam came to the company right out of college and Jed her father mentor him, but it didn't take much because he is creatively a genius. Then there is Greer, Vivien's sister who she has a strange relationship. Vivien distant herself from her family because she felt like her father didn't love her. She did all kinds of things to get her father's attention, but she felt like he didn't care what she did. So, we have Vivien who works for an investment company in New York coming home to take care of her father's company, one she tried to distance herself from. Then there is her Uncle Barton who is trying to make himself CEO of the company for some reason and fast. Then we have his two nieces Vivien and Greer and Liam and the head of Security feeling like there is something going on at the company and the uncle might be behind it all. This story contained lots of drama and then some romance, but it is definitely an unusual romance considering its the Nerd and the high-powered executive who has to sort out the video game company and then get back to her investment firm in New York or does she have to? I thought this was a good read and would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Johnaka- Amity Book Blog.
1,158 reviews16 followers
June 4, 2018
“Nerd boy and his Ice Queen, 3 stars”



Liam looked at his mentor like a father figure and developed a close relationship with Jed and his youngest daughter Greer. In all the years he worked for Jed he never met his oldest daughter, just heard how she was taking Wall Street by storm. Never in his wildest dreams did he think he would only meet her because of a tragedy. Will Vivian the Ice Queen live up to her reputation or will she start to thaw?

Vivian didn’t expect to get a call while working out of the country telling her she needed to come home. She didn’t expect to ever step back in Texas let alone spend time at her father’s business. Vivian has an estranged sister and her father’s prodigy breathing down her neck. Will she crave under the pressure of her past coming forward or will she own it?

I genuinely liked the idea of Fair Game. The plot was on point and I liked the mystery throughout the story. What I didn’t care for is I figured out the mystery early on and I really didn’t care for the heroine. I just really wanted to strangle her. With that said though I loved everyone else in the story. I really hope Lunsford writes a story for Greer. If you like a closed off heroine and a solid hero this may be a story for you.

Plot-5/5

Characters-3/5

Heat-3/5

Writing style-3/5

Overall-3/5

Profile Image for J.
270 reviews
June 4, 2018
I just didn't care for this one. While I liked Liam I had a really hard time connecting with the other characters. Vivian kind of lived up to her "ice queen" title and I don't feel like she ever really loosened up. She had major daddy issues which it briefly explained and made her issues a little more understandable, but I never really felt like I had a decent explanation of WHY her dad was like that. It really didn't make much sense.

And Greer. She was just flat out horrible. What a nasty, bratty, sister. She knew exactly how her father had treated Viv and yet acted like the martyr because Vivian didn't want to be around them. Sounds like she was daddy's little princess and did nothing at all to ever help Viv. And yet she had to be the hurt party in every instance. She played a big part in bringing the book down for me.

The story line was ok but the pace of the book was...so...slow. It just dragged on and on and on. It really could have been half the length. Less book and less angst from Greer would have been a big move in holding my interest longer. As much as I really liked Liam, this one just wasn't for me.

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Shruti.
953 reviews4 followers
May 21, 2018
I would say this is 2.5 stars, but I'm rounding up to be nice. It wasn't that this book was BAD, but there were a lot of parts that felt like they were dragging, and the mystery/suspense aspect didn't really live up. It was predictable and obvious and there weren't many, if any, twists.

However, the redeeming factor was definitely the main relationship between Viv and Liam. I absolutely adored them together. I love whenever we get homeless romantic Hero and "ice princess" heroine. I enjoyed them growing into a partnership and their easy domesticity and affection.

What I hated, though, was the big climactic fight and how it was set up to be that Viv was completely in the wrong. That entire section, combined with a lack of apology from either Greer or Liam, really annoyed me. I liked Greer enough, and maybe it was a result of being in Viv's POV, but I'm not a Greer fan for her lack of empathy for her sister.

But again, the main relationship saved this book, and that's why I'll round up to 3 stars.
Profile Image for Melenareads .
3,339 reviews79 followers
April 22, 2018
Vivian has come back to Texas after her father's death to temporarily take over as CEO of his gaming company. There she meets Liam, an adorable and nerdy employee. She's never been good at relationships, but there is an attraction between them that they both feel.

I love video games and it was fun that the company wasn't just a regular corporation that is featured in so many books. The author does a good job of not making it too difficult, though, for a non-gamer to understand and appreciate the story.

While I enjoyed the plot more as the story progressed, I did find it difficult to connect with the characters, especially Vivian. The reasons behind her hesitancy to remain as CEO and to get close to Liam are well explained, but I did like Liam a bit more.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sandie Book Boyfriend Reviews.
529 reviews15 followers
June 21, 2018
When I saw this come across my email I really wanted to read it, I mean a hot nerdy video game dude and a badass business chick what could be better?

Vivian is an Ice Queen who lives up to her reputation. She comes back home to Texas to take over her father's gaming company after his death. She has a baby sister Geer that she is not very close to and it shows.

Then there is Liam Hale protege of Vivian's late father. I liked Liam he was a sweet guy. I enjoyed the book, I liked the plot but I just couldn't connect with Vivian. I got where she was coming from and that she had major daddy issues and jealous of her baby sister but she was a bit too irritable for me. Overall I did enjoy the premise and the character growth but there were a few points in the story where it dragged a bit but all in all, it was a good read.
2,354 reviews14 followers
April 16, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) I am sad to say that I didn't love the book, didn't hate it but just wasn't satisfying to me. Even though I totally love alpha's I also do enjoy a computer geek, and I did like myself Liam, but it is a shame he ended up with someone like Vivien, she annoyed the hell out of me. I found her whiny and fake he deserved someone with more depth and she sadly was not it.. So would I read it again most likely not, but I leave the option of reading or not reading up to you..
Profile Image for Clare.
216 reviews
June 6, 2018
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. This is the first book I've read by Taylor Lunsford. This is a really good book. I really liked Liam and Vivien. Vivien has a strong, take no prisoners personality, and Liam, a born nurturer, offers her a safe place to fall when she needs it. Their personalities really complement each other. I also really liked the family dynamics taking place in this book. I especially enjoyed Vivien's sister, Greer, and look forward to reading more about her. Overall, this was a very enjoyable book.
Profile Image for A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog.
2,787 reviews107 followers
June 9, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Taylor Lunsford. This is a really good book. I really liked Liam and Vivien. Vivien has a strong, take no prisoners personality, and Liam, a born nurturer, offers her a safe place to fall when she needs it. Their personalities really complement each other. I also really liked the family dynamics taking place in this book. I especially enjoyed Vivien's sister, Greer, and look forward to reading more about her. Overall, this was a very enjoyable book.

Reviewed by: Clare M.
Profile Image for Margo Roberts.
70 reviews11 followers
June 23, 2018
New York woman Vivian comes back home to Texas to take over her father's gaming company and meets one of his employee, Liam, an adorably geek with an attitude that drives her crazy. As she helps her family and the business, she begins to fall for the small town life again and Liam himself. But when the work she's doing comes to a close, she has to plan her next move. Does she live the town she's starting to fall in love with and the guy too?

I thought it was a likable story!



I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews163 followers
March 31, 2018
Liam often n questions his decisions, "what was he thinking? Inviting Viv into his house was a dumb idea. Her, that close to his bed, his couch , hell— his kitchen table ; it was asking for trouble. Bad enough he got half-hard just looking at her..." Vivien is often taken off guard, “dinner? With your mother?” Vivien repeated the words slowly, as if she were trying to process a calculus equation." I liked this book, I loved Liam.
Profile Image for Deanna.
204 reviews
May 6, 2018
This was a solid romance with some suspense. I liked the characters especially Liam. He was an adorable "nerdy" book boyfriend. Vivien was suck an ice queen that she was a little unlikable but that speaks to the talent of the author. The reader gets to see the transition of the character. Good read. Thank you Entangled Publishing for the ARC of this title via NetGalley.
Profile Image for poppy.
4,590 reviews28 followers
October 3, 2018
I just loved Lian and I really enjoyed this book. Liam and Viv could not have been any more different but the chemistry between them was off the charts hot I really enjoy a good geek romance and this one did not disappoint it was a wonderful read with super characters that you just can't help but like. A great addition to the Entangled books.
Profile Image for Meghan.
737 reviews2 followers
June 24, 2019
Good premise- not such a good execution. Vivien got on my nerves right from page one. Liam while he was ok I just didn’t really like him all that much. I just found myself not crying what happened and in the end definitely skimmed through the last little bit.

*I received a copy from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
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