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Ballsy Boys #1
Just Playin'
Presley “Elvis” Carlton was at the top of his game. Number one draft pick, engaged to an up and coming model, and voted best player of the decade his first year on the field.
Things were golden... until an accident saw everything important torn from his grasp.
He’s determined to get his life back, and with a strict regime, and no time for a life outside of the game, the last thing he wants is the attention of a curvy university student whose only motto in life is to not take it too seriously.
Can an Australian expat show the struggling sports star there’s more to life than the next win? Or has Willow Underwood chewed off a chunk of man meat too thick for her to swallow?
Just Playin’ is a standalone sports romance romcom that will give you all the feels. It has sexy scenes and several laugh-out-loud moments.
Things were golden... until an accident saw everything important torn from his grasp.
He’s determined to get his life back, and with a strict regime, and no time for a life outside of the game, the last thing he wants is the attention of a curvy university student whose only motto in life is to not take it too seriously.
Can an Australian expat show the struggling sports star there’s more to life than the next win? Or has Willow Underwood chewed off a chunk of man meat too thick for her to swallow?
Just Playin’ is a standalone sports romance romcom that will give you all the feels. It has sexy scenes and several laugh-out-loud moments.
304 pages, Paperback
First published July 31, 2019
2167 people are currently reading
4585 people want to read
About the author
Shandi Boyes
98 books2,203 followersShandi Boyes is a USA Today Bestselling Author who was an avid reader for many years before she discovered the love of writing in February 2016. Her first penned novel 'Perception of Life’ is a new adult rockstar romance that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat until the very last word.
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
In September 2016, her focus shifted to hot alpha men in steamy contemporary reads that sizzle off the pages. Shandi’s novel ‘Enigma of Life’ is an award-winning story on an FBI agent and the subject she was assigned to investigate. Her men are swoon-worthy, devoted, and alpha; and her heroines are strong-willed, determined, and loveable. You should start her stories first thing in the morning, or you may not sleep.
You will laugh and you will cry, but Shandi's characters will stay with you for a lifetime!
Join my newsletter: subscribepage.com/authorshandi
SERIES ORDER:
Perception of Life (Noah and Emily #1)
Reality of Life (conclusion of Noah's story #2)
Fight of Life (Jacob's story - standalone #3)
Player of Life (Nick & Jenny - standalone #4)
Beats of Life (Slater's story - standalone #5)
Enigma:
Enigma of Life (Isaac #1) - ** FREE **
Unraveling an Enigma (Isaac #2)
Enigma: The Mystery Unmasked (Isaac #3)
Enigma: The Final Chapter (conclusion of Isaac's story #4)
Beneath the Secrets (Hugo #1)
Beneath the Sheets (Hugo #2)
Spy Thy Neighbor (Hunter's Story)
The Opposite Effect
I Married a Mob Boss
Second Shot
Bound:
Chains
Links
Bound
Restrained
Russian Mob Chronicles:
Nikolai: A Mafia Prince Romance
Nikolai: Taking Back What's Mine
Nikolai: What's Left of Me
You will laugh and you will cry, but my characters will stay with you forever!
I love writing and reading. They are both my passion. My genre is generally set to new adult and contemporary, with a few twists thrown in.
Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/Author-Shand...
Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B01D8C13WU
Enjoy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 315 reviews
May 22, 2022
4 ❤️❤️❤️❤️ 🏈🔥💃🏻🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️
I was kind of hesitant to read this book, maybe because I wasn’t so thrilled with the cover.
I don’t know who to thank, but it was an amazing sports romance story that I couldn’t stop reading!!!
Willow was such a sassy and independent character with all her curves and smartness, completely stealing the show! “Elvis” was a nice character, having rightfully trust issues, since his ex did great numbers on him.
Their connection and chemistry were spectacular and their relationship grew under a great pace.
Fabulous writing, wonderful characters, quick lines, dual pov.
I liked this story so much❣️
“Unless I’m sitting on your face, my weight is none of your business.” slogan on Willow’s shirt
I was kind of hesitant to read this book, maybe because I wasn’t so thrilled with the cover.
I don’t know who to thank, but it was an amazing sports romance story that I couldn’t stop reading!!!
Willow was such a sassy and independent character with all her curves and smartness, completely stealing the show! “Elvis” was a nice character, having rightfully trust issues, since his ex did great numbers on him.
Their connection and chemistry were spectacular and their relationship grew under a great pace.
Fabulous writing, wonderful characters, quick lines, dual pov.
I liked this story so much❣️
“Unless I’m sitting on your face, my weight is none of your business.” slogan on Willow’s shirt
October 11, 2019
Willow Underwood is an Australian doing her college studies abroad. After a terrible knee injury while dancing, she had to give up a future career in ballet and now has settled for teaching little girls hip hop on the side of her studies. Willow’s never been into sports, until her best friend/roommate Skylar. But against her will, Skylar drags Willow to a 69ers football game and after a couple run ins with a beer can and an asshole, she ends up making friends with a woman named Becca and she ends up having a fun evening at her house. Willow meets one of Becca’s husband’s friends named Elvis, and instantly there is undeniable chemistry between them.
But what Willow doesn’t know is Elvis is actually Presley “Elvis” Carlson, one of the key players for the 69ers. And Becca’s husband is one of Presley’s teammates. Presley had everything going for him—he was at the height of his career and was about to get married—but an accident changed everything for him. And now he wants to know what it would be like to date a woman without her being hypnotized by his fame. So Presley decides to keep his true identity a secret from Willow. Although they can’t seem to keep their hands off each other, Presley’s secret could end up tearing them apart for good.
Just Playin’ by Shandi Boyes is a standalone sports romance. I found this book to be a lot of fun; both Willow and Presley were likable characters. I had a hard time following the story at times and I’m unsure if I jive with the author’s writing style. i never fully connected with the romance like I wanted to. And I disliked the addition of the “ex girlfriend” trope thrown in there sporadically. 3/5 stars.
But what Willow doesn’t know is Elvis is actually Presley “Elvis” Carlson, one of the key players for the 69ers. And Becca’s husband is one of Presley’s teammates. Presley had everything going for him—he was at the height of his career and was about to get married—but an accident changed everything for him. And now he wants to know what it would be like to date a woman without her being hypnotized by his fame. So Presley decides to keep his true identity a secret from Willow. Although they can’t seem to keep their hands off each other, Presley’s secret could end up tearing them apart for good.
Just Playin’ by Shandi Boyes is a standalone sports romance. I found this book to be a lot of fun; both Willow and Presley were likable characters. I had a hard time following the story at times and I’m unsure if I jive with the author’s writing style. i never fully connected with the romance like I wanted to. And I disliked the addition of the “ex girlfriend” trope thrown in there sporadically. 3/5 stars.
July 26, 2019
New Genre For Me But A Hit!!!
As an Aussie I totally loved the elements of this story. American Football Hero meets Aussie Ex Ballerina/College Student studying abroad. I can so relate to Willow as I'm not into sports either but this just works!!!
Willow is not your average book heroine who's slim and perfect. She's a Real woman who's big chested, has love handles and tummy rolls, we as real women can relate too. She's bubbly, kind and has Sass. She's just so loveable!!!
I found myself laughing out loud many times with the clever and witty way it was written. You just won't be able to help yourself.
Presley's past makes him cautious and a little arrogant. He's drop dead gorgeous, has a smile that makes women swoon but Willow doesn't care.
Willow is free spirited and full of light. She makes you want to dance!!!
I think many will relate to Willow as their Soul Sister. I know I did!!
I love when a story grips you and draws you in as this one does.
Oh did I forget to mention it's Hot!!! 😉
I don't usually like Books that revolve around sports but I've definitely been Converted!!!
Another Must Read!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As an Aussie I totally loved the elements of this story. American Football Hero meets Aussie Ex Ballerina/College Student studying abroad. I can so relate to Willow as I'm not into sports either but this just works!!!
Willow is not your average book heroine who's slim and perfect. She's a Real woman who's big chested, has love handles and tummy rolls, we as real women can relate too. She's bubbly, kind and has Sass. She's just so loveable!!!
I found myself laughing out loud many times with the clever and witty way it was written. You just won't be able to help yourself.
Presley's past makes him cautious and a little arrogant. He's drop dead gorgeous, has a smile that makes women swoon but Willow doesn't care.
Willow is free spirited and full of light. She makes you want to dance!!!
I think many will relate to Willow as their Soul Sister. I know I did!!
I love when a story grips you and draws you in as this one does.
Oh did I forget to mention it's Hot!!! 😉
I don't usually like Books that revolve around sports but I've definitely been Converted!!!
Another Must Read!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 29, 2023
DNF at 70%.
Note to writer: that whole "chinese" masseuse bit was really off-putting. Honestly, I feel this needs to be edited out because it has zero relevance to the story.
Note to writer: that whole "chinese" masseuse bit was really off-putting. Honestly, I feel this needs to be edited out because it has zero relevance to the story.
January 25, 2025
It was a decent read. I liked Willow's Character, she is strong and sassy.
April 4, 2022
All in all I did not like this book, I don't even know why I finished it.
In fact, whilst I was reading it I made a list of all the things I didn't like:
1. The negative/harmful stereotypes mentioned about different ethnicities?? At one point, the female MC stated she was a sports therapist "not a Chinese masseuse". I have no idea what ethnicity has to do with the topic, but it's a harmful comment that should not be ignored. There are more negative comments about those of African ethnicity, but I can't remember a direct quote from the top of my head.
2. This book was so clearly written by a millennial. Usually, I don't mind millennial humour, but the author was so clearly trying to appeal to younger generations. They mentioned flossing!! It was so cringe, I had to take a break from reading.
3. The alpha male comments?? Spoiler: the male MC talks himself out of being in love, because he's the "alpha male" and can't be in love first. Also, now I think about it, there was no love confession...the words simply weren't spoken...?
4. An Ed Sheeran song was mentioned. Look, I don't mind Ed Sheeran, but let's not bring him up in books - there are plenty of other artists.
5. "My current squeeze" is what the male MC called the love interest, months into their relationship. How temporary does that sound? Also the male MC wouldn't stop talking about his ex fiancé - like all the time...
6. His name!! I can admit, "E" is cute (I can't be blamed, I grew up watching Gossip Girl), but Elvis?? Even though his name is Presley?? I get the nickname, but I'm currently nit-picking.
7. Their relationship was founded upon lies! No thank you!! (Spoiler) She didn't even know who he was for months? And then found out and he didn't even grovel? Not for me.
8. The slang was so obscene and rude at times. Trust me, I am no stranger to lewd comments in a jovial manner, but this book felt so dirty. Every line was an innuendo. It was so blatantly cringe also!! The only example needed: "I’ll always love you, Will, but I don’t have to like you right now.” - Female MCs best friend.
9. You know that makeup scene in book between couples after they've messed up? Yeah, didn't happen. At least, not in the usual heart-to-heart you expect and desire. No she (spoiler) turns up to his rugby (American football) game and they have a snog and that's about it. Saying that though, I am sleep deprived and probably skim read through the ending so I could finish the book as soon as possible...
10. And finally!! The couple definitely didn't make it a full year, let alone past the epilogue. Their relationship was built on sexual innuendos and a fixation with each other's bodies. I didn't get a sense of deep connection at all. It was very lacking.
In fact, whilst I was reading it I made a list of all the things I didn't like:
1. The negative/harmful stereotypes mentioned about different ethnicities?? At one point, the female MC stated she was a sports therapist "not a Chinese masseuse". I have no idea what ethnicity has to do with the topic, but it's a harmful comment that should not be ignored. There are more negative comments about those of African ethnicity, but I can't remember a direct quote from the top of my head.
2. This book was so clearly written by a millennial. Usually, I don't mind millennial humour, but the author was so clearly trying to appeal to younger generations. They mentioned flossing!! It was so cringe, I had to take a break from reading.
3. The alpha male comments?? Spoiler: the male MC talks himself out of being in love, because he's the "alpha male" and can't be in love first. Also, now I think about it, there was no love confession...the words simply weren't spoken...?
4. An Ed Sheeran song was mentioned. Look, I don't mind Ed Sheeran, but let's not bring him up in books - there are plenty of other artists.
5. "My current squeeze" is what the male MC called the love interest, months into their relationship. How temporary does that sound? Also the male MC wouldn't stop talking about his ex fiancé - like all the time...
6. His name!! I can admit, "E" is cute (I can't be blamed, I grew up watching Gossip Girl), but Elvis?? Even though his name is Presley?? I get the nickname, but I'm currently nit-picking.
7. Their relationship was founded upon lies! No thank you!! (Spoiler) She didn't even know who he was for months? And then found out and he didn't even grovel? Not for me.
8. The slang was so obscene and rude at times. Trust me, I am no stranger to lewd comments in a jovial manner, but this book felt so dirty. Every line was an innuendo. It was so blatantly cringe also!! The only example needed: "I’ll always love you, Will, but I don’t have to like you right now.” - Female MCs best friend.
9. You know that makeup scene in book between couples after they've messed up? Yeah, didn't happen. At least, not in the usual heart-to-heart you expect and desire. No she (spoiler) turns up to his rugby (American football) game and they have a snog and that's about it. Saying that though, I am sleep deprived and probably skim read through the ending so I could finish the book as soon as possible...
10. And finally!! The couple definitely didn't make it a full year, let alone past the epilogue. Their relationship was built on sexual innuendos and a fixation with each other's bodies. I didn't get a sense of deep connection at all. It was very lacking.
April 6, 2022
This was such a cute freaking read! Now, I will say there are a shit load of stereotypes in this book. About football players and bigger woman and so on. I had no issues with this, but be sure to keep that in mind if it's not something you enjoy.
Okay now let me gas this shit up.
I freaking loved this book. I read it in one sitting, in my office and had to hold in my laughter way too much. Give me anything with a plus size fmc and I'm gonna eat that shit up. And the cherry on top, a plus size woman who is so fucking secure in herself. Love to see it! Now keep in mind, when I say this I don't mean she was not insecure or didn't feel like he was too good for her (a jock with a six... no eight pack) because she totally did. But I think that's why I loved the book even more. I related to Willow when it came to that.
I didn't really connect to Presley as much as I would have liked to, but it's totally okay because Willow is a babe. Also, I have seen the infamous t-shirt Willow wears being a massive selling point on socials but no one is talking about something even better (okay I'm reaching but its close) IT'S AN AGE-GAP ROMANCE. Willow is 21 and Presley is 31. *sigh* if only I had known earlier.
Anyway, loved it. It was shit funny. I loved reading about a character who is the same age as me, who has the same body type I have being such a bad ass and so unapologetic but also being so vulnerable. It felt as if the author was a mind reader at times.
Okay now let me gas this shit up.
I freaking loved this book. I read it in one sitting, in my office and had to hold in my laughter way too much. Give me anything with a plus size fmc and I'm gonna eat that shit up. And the cherry on top, a plus size woman who is so fucking secure in herself. Love to see it! Now keep in mind, when I say this I don't mean she was not insecure or didn't feel like he was too good for her (a jock with a six... no eight pack) because she totally did. But I think that's why I loved the book even more. I related to Willow when it came to that.
I didn't really connect to Presley as much as I would have liked to, but it's totally okay because Willow is a babe. Also, I have seen the infamous t-shirt Willow wears being a massive selling point on socials but no one is talking about something even better (okay I'm reaching but its close) IT'S AN AGE-GAP ROMANCE. Willow is 21 and Presley is 31. *sigh* if only I had known earlier.
Anyway, loved it. It was shit funny. I loved reading about a character who is the same age as me, who has the same body type I have being such a bad ass and so unapologetic but also being so vulnerable. It felt as if the author was a mind reader at times.
September 22, 2019
Long review with hidden spoilers after the general review.
This book started as the funny story of Willow and Elvis, a dancer and a football player. I laughed a lot and loved a lot at the beginning while reading the start and development of their relationship, but then I just lost the connection with it. I feel like the drama was not well written and the end didn't get the impact we were waiting for.
*SPOILERS*
So let's start with the fact that Willow doesn't know the full name of the person she's dating. Come on, seriously? It was not only sex. They were fully dating by the time she found out who he was. Besides that, we have the annoying ex who doesn't want to leave him alone. She was flirting with stalking, and he was supposedly tired and annoyed of her, but he still would let her call him after every game instead of blocking her number. But he was over her? I don't think so.
And then we get Willow thinking as a feminist, but then acting like a manipulable girl who pities herself. Feminism is about empowering yourself, not about risking your whole life for a man who doesn't appreciate it. First, when she helped him get his arm fix, and then not telling his trainer he was seriously injured. She could've lost her job AND her license, and he was mad because she was trying to do what was best for him. Then, she instantly quiting to her internship (even though she only had two more days to go), risking losing her scholarship and her place at school, and all because she was hurt because of what he said? I mean, yes, she had every right to be mad at him since he acted like a stupid cry baby, but that's why you work hard to show him you don't need him, not act like a teenage girl and quiting. And finally, that big fight she had with Sky after she found out Willow was Elvis' girlfriend, she telling Sky she was only jealous because she was happy with the man she always wanted and didn't tell her about it. That was a dick move. A horrible thing to say. Like what Elvis told you about dancing. Which takes me to the part where he was waiting for her to go running after him and show him that she cares after HE made a stupid mistake and told her something that made her feel like shit. That's just utterly selfish and egocentric. On top of that, he being mad about her being insecure is just plain stupid because words don't fix them, actions do and Elvis didn't show her she was worth it and she was important to him in those few days before.
I felt like Presley was toxic and insecure himself after his relationship with Lillian (which is understandable) but he needed to grow up and stop being such and asswhole at times. He was practically perfect at the beginning and then he had a terrible change of attitude. Fighting with a reporter on live tv and assaulting him while everyone watched is not smart. Therefore, Willow finding out about the three mosqueters plan and she beating then when they were three and she just one was very unbelievable and not well developed, in my opinion. And then taking a play from Elvis book and fighting herself, hitting the bitch in the face. Just too much.
This could've been a great story if the author had developed her ideas better. I also feel like some parts were not understandable since English is not my first languages and many times for me it was hard to get what the author wanted to say or express. I don't know if it was the vocabulary or the writing, but this has never happen to me with any book. This wouldn't be an author U would recommend from my perspective.
This book started as the funny story of Willow and Elvis, a dancer and a football player. I laughed a lot and loved a lot at the beginning while reading the start and development of their relationship, but then I just lost the connection with it. I feel like the drama was not well written and the end didn't get the impact we were waiting for.
*SPOILERS*
So let's start with the fact that Willow doesn't know the full name of the person she's dating. Come on, seriously? It was not only sex. They were fully dating by the time she found out who he was. Besides that, we have the annoying ex who doesn't want to leave him alone. She was flirting with stalking, and he was supposedly tired and annoyed of her, but he still would let her call him after every game instead of blocking her number. But he was over her? I don't think so.
And then we get Willow thinking as a feminist, but then acting like a manipulable girl who pities herself. Feminism is about empowering yourself, not about risking your whole life for a man who doesn't appreciate it. First, when she helped him get his arm fix, and then not telling his trainer he was seriously injured. She could've lost her job AND her license, and he was mad because she was trying to do what was best for him. Then, she instantly quiting to her internship (even though she only had two more days to go), risking losing her scholarship and her place at school, and all because she was hurt because of what he said? I mean, yes, she had every right to be mad at him since he acted like a stupid cry baby, but that's why you work hard to show him you don't need him, not act like a teenage girl and quiting. And finally, that big fight she had with Sky after she found out Willow was Elvis' girlfriend, she telling Sky she was only jealous because she was happy with the man she always wanted and didn't tell her about it. That was a dick move. A horrible thing to say. Like what Elvis told you about dancing. Which takes me to the part where he was waiting for her to go running after him and show him that she cares after HE made a stupid mistake and told her something that made her feel like shit. That's just utterly selfish and egocentric. On top of that, he being mad about her being insecure is just plain stupid because words don't fix them, actions do and Elvis didn't show her she was worth it and she was important to him in those few days before.
I felt like Presley was toxic and insecure himself after his relationship with Lillian (which is understandable) but he needed to grow up and stop being such and asswhole at times. He was practically perfect at the beginning and then he had a terrible change of attitude. Fighting with a reporter on live tv and assaulting him while everyone watched is not smart. Therefore, Willow finding out about the three mosqueters plan and she beating then when they were three and she just one was very unbelievable and not well developed, in my opinion. And then taking a play from Elvis book and fighting herself, hitting the bitch in the face. Just too much.
This could've been a great story if the author had developed her ideas better. I also feel like some parts were not understandable since English is not my first languages and many times for me it was hard to get what the author wanted to say or express. I don't know if it was the vocabulary or the writing, but this has never happen to me with any book. This wouldn't be an author U would recommend from my perspective.
September 5, 2019
First time reading this author and am happy to have discovered her. I enjoyed Elvis and Willow!! Loved Becca and Dalton and Danny and hope we get more from Skyler and others.. So much fun Grab a copy and Enjoy!!! First read on Kindle Unlimited with my own thoughts.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
May 25, 2022
3.5⭐️
I laughed out loud many times! Willow was hilarious, and cause I’m Aussie I can relate a lot to her humour. The ex girlfriend drama felt a little forced and the way things escalated then fizzled out towards the end could of been handled better. There were parts that were just ok throughout but overall it was a fun sports romance.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: 1st in series, can be read as a standalone.
TROPES: M/F adult, age gap (h is 21, H is 30), sports (NFL) rom-com.
SIZE: 286 (last page) Kindle pages.
PLOT: 📚📚📚📚📚/5
ROMANCE: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️/5
SPICE/STEAM: 🌶🌶.5/5
TRIGGERS: 😈/5 (past drinking problem, death of parents)
MY STORY SUMMARY:
Willow meets Elvis through a new friend. She isn’t a sports fan so it’s no wonder she doesn’t recognise him. After his years in a toxic relationship he decides not to reveal his profession until he sees where things go with Willow. They face situations involving his ex and his career troubles which put things to the test.
⛔️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
I laughed out loud many times! Willow was hilarious, and cause I’m Aussie I can relate a lot to her humour. The ex girlfriend drama felt a little forced and the way things escalated then fizzled out towards the end could of been handled better. There were parts that were just ok throughout but overall it was a fun sports romance.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: 1st in series, can be read as a standalone.
TROPES: M/F adult, age gap (h is 21, H is 30), sports (NFL) rom-com.
SIZE: 286 (last page) Kindle pages.
PLOT: 📚📚📚📚📚/5
ROMANCE: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️/5
SPICE/STEAM: 🌶🌶.5/5
TRIGGERS: 😈/5 (past drinking problem, death of parents)
MY STORY SUMMARY:
Willow meets Elvis through a new friend. She isn’t a sports fan so it’s no wonder she doesn’t recognise him. After his years in a toxic relationship he decides not to reveal his profession until he sees where things go with Willow. They face situations involving his ex and his career troubles which put things to the test.
⛔️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
Want to read
January 15, 2021🎁FREE on Amazon & on Apple Book today (1/15/2021)!🎁
July 23, 2019
This was such a fabulous rom com.
I snort-laughed and spat my drink out a couple of times.
It was also a close call at one stage with my bladder and an epic laughing fit!!!
Willow will have your belly moving as her quirky, sassy, outrageously funny personality comes to life in Just Playin’.
She is the perfect character. The girl you want to be bff’s with, the girl you want to be, or in Elvis’s case, the girl you want to be with!
And Elvis is the Star football player that everyone wants to be with.. but Willow doesn’t know what he does.
We get the side splitting funny moments, some serious moments but overall this book was the perfect pick me up!
You will totally fall in love with Willow and Elvis. But you will also fall in love with a few other the side characters that help make this book sparkle ❤️
I snort-laughed and spat my drink out a couple of times.
It was also a close call at one stage with my bladder and an epic laughing fit!!!
Willow will have your belly moving as her quirky, sassy, outrageously funny personality comes to life in Just Playin’.
She is the perfect character. The girl you want to be bff’s with, the girl you want to be, or in Elvis’s case, the girl you want to be with!
And Elvis is the Star football player that everyone wants to be with.. but Willow doesn’t know what he does.
We get the side splitting funny moments, some serious moments but overall this book was the perfect pick me up!
You will totally fall in love with Willow and Elvis. But you will also fall in love with a few other the side characters that help make this book sparkle ❤️
September 26, 2019
OMG
Willow could be my favourite book chick ever!
She has some amazing one liners that set the cocky and confident Elvis right back in his place.
Elvis thinks he has it all right up up until he takes on to the family’s jewels by the Aussie chick he never saw coming. And willow, she doesn’t have a clue who the million dollar football superstar in her bed actually is.
A great read and it quickly became one of my favs! Shandi has nailed sports romance and now I want more!
Willow could be my favourite book chick ever!
She has some amazing one liners that set the cocky and confident Elvis right back in his place.
Elvis thinks he has it all right up up until he takes on to the family’s jewels by the Aussie chick he never saw coming. And willow, she doesn’t have a clue who the million dollar football superstar in her bed actually is.
A great read and it quickly became one of my favs! Shandi has nailed sports romance and now I want more!
April 29, 2021
While I liked the banter between Willow & Elvis, it didn't make up for the rest of the book. Things stretched into the unbelievable at times - who dates someone without knowing their name? Almost everything that happens in the last half of the book is one idiot thing after another - I understand that charcters & situations in romance novels are exaggerated reality, but this was beyond that.
November 3, 2021
This was so bad. I’d be shocked if you told me the author has watched a game of football in their life, like shocked. They were referring the playoffs as finals and they were losing playoff games but advancing??? Also jfc the like melodrama especially at the end with fiancé was just too much. In gen glad the shit is over.
February 11, 2021
The characters & story were ok and while I saw hints of the comedy throughout the narrative, the writing style of wordiness & repetition was a negative for me.
Also, some of it was too crude for me. (I'm not big on bathroom humor)
Also, some of it was too crude for me. (I'm not big on bathroom humor)
May 6, 2022
This was good, but...
The beginning was kind of jumbled. There was a lot introduced initially and the whole situation with Elvis was a little confusing for me. Maybe I was tired? or reading things wrong, but his injury and relationship info dump didn't make a lot of sense to me.
Also there was Elvis' friend and his wife. Reading this, the way it was written, I almost felt like there was a book before this one that was about those two characters and I should've known more, but was stumped. It felt like when you're having a conversation and someone mentions a friend and you pretend like you know who they're talking about, even though you don't have the vaguest idea, so you just nod along and hope no one asks you any questions.
Anyhoo.
This book was funny, although at times it almost seemed like it was trying too hard to be funny. Still, I had a few laugh out loud moments reading it.
I liked Willow and Elvis was okay.
I might read the other books in this series, we'll see. I also might check out some of this author's other books. Again, we'll see.
The beginning was kind of jumbled. There was a lot introduced initially and the whole situation with Elvis was a little confusing for me. Maybe I was tired? or reading things wrong, but his injury and relationship info dump didn't make a lot of sense to me.
Also there was Elvis' friend and his wife. Reading this, the way it was written, I almost felt like there was a book before this one that was about those two characters and I should've known more, but was stumped. It felt like when you're having a conversation and someone mentions a friend and you pretend like you know who they're talking about, even though you don't have the vaguest idea, so you just nod along and hope no one asks you any questions.
Anyhoo.
This book was funny, although at times it almost seemed like it was trying too hard to be funny. Still, I had a few laugh out loud moments reading it.
I liked Willow and Elvis was okay.
I might read the other books in this series, we'll see. I also might check out some of this author's other books. Again, we'll see.
December 18, 2022
I’m not giving spoilers. I will tell you I was so immersed in this book I want to read it all over again even though I just finished it. I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so hard when reading a book. OMG the author has an aptitude for humor that will actually have you busting a gut, snort laughing, tears streaming down your face while trying not pee on yourself from laughing so freaking hard!!! I read the car scene three times. You’ll know what I’m talking about when you read it!!! I can’t wait to read the rest of the authors books!!!
December 5, 2019
So over the past few months I have been in a book slump, couldn't find anything that really interested me. But the past couple books I have read I have absolutely loved. Hitting all the right spots for me.
Willow is another character that I just fell in love with. She is so spunky and quirky. She never does what you think she's going to do. She doesn't take herself too seriously and she just loves to have fun. At first I was a little annoyed with the constant descriptions of her physical appearance. She's curvy, and she has stomach fat, and rolls when she bends a certain way. I hate this. For me, as a reader, I put myself in the shoes of the character I'm reading about. And honestly the last thing I want to read about is someone's insecurities about their weight. In my fictional head, my body is banging! Why would I want to be dragged down the weight insecurities of the person I'm reading about? Luckily, this let up after the book got started. It also ended up being a key part of the story. And I liked how that all played out. So I'm glad it wasn't constantly in my face, her being "curvy."
Presley "Elvis" Carlton, was superstar QB trying to find his way back to the top. After some injuries and a disastrous personal life, he was just starting to climb his way back out of the hole he created, when he meets the vivacious Willow. He tried to fight his attraction to her, but it's hard to stay away from someone as awesome and unique as Willow. The girl cracked me up. I was literally laughing out loud like a loon at parts of this book.
There were many twists and turns, Willow doesn't really care for football, so Elvis doesn't bother to tell her that's his job. Then drama with his ex and endorsement deals. It all mixes together to make for a great story with some drama mixed in. The characters were so lovable. You really just ended up routing for both of them. But again, Willow really stands out as the star, despite Elvis being a literal celebrity.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FAVORITE QUOTES
"You're the exact reason gene pools need lifeguards."
~Willow
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If I could explain this weekend in only one word it would be outrageously-f*cking-fantastic.
What? When it's hyphenated, it's only one word. I found that out the hard way when I submitted my English essay earlier this month.
~Willow
Willow is another character that I just fell in love with. She is so spunky and quirky. She never does what you think she's going to do. She doesn't take herself too seriously and she just loves to have fun. At first I was a little annoyed with the constant descriptions of her physical appearance. She's curvy, and she has stomach fat, and rolls when she bends a certain way. I hate this. For me, as a reader, I put myself in the shoes of the character I'm reading about. And honestly the last thing I want to read about is someone's insecurities about their weight. In my fictional head, my body is banging! Why would I want to be dragged down the weight insecurities of the person I'm reading about? Luckily, this let up after the book got started. It also ended up being a key part of the story. And I liked how that all played out. So I'm glad it wasn't constantly in my face, her being "curvy."
Presley "Elvis" Carlton, was superstar QB trying to find his way back to the top. After some injuries and a disastrous personal life, he was just starting to climb his way back out of the hole he created, when he meets the vivacious Willow. He tried to fight his attraction to her, but it's hard to stay away from someone as awesome and unique as Willow. The girl cracked me up. I was literally laughing out loud like a loon at parts of this book.
There were many twists and turns, Willow doesn't really care for football, so Elvis doesn't bother to tell her that's his job. Then drama with his ex and endorsement deals. It all mixes together to make for a great story with some drama mixed in. The characters were so lovable. You really just ended up routing for both of them. But again, Willow really stands out as the star, despite Elvis being a literal celebrity.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FAVORITE QUOTES
"You're the exact reason gene pools need lifeguards."
~Willow
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If I could explain this weekend in only one word it would be outrageously-f*cking-fantastic.
What? When it's hyphenated, it's only one word. I found that out the hard way when I submitted my English essay earlier this month.
~Willow
dnf-2021
September 13, 2021DNF
Read
April 14, 2024Dnf at 35%. Idk I just wasn’t feeling it and thought the characters were trying to hard 🤷♀️
July 19, 2025
boring and cringy there’s no connection just a sexual attraction meh
May 8, 2024
This book had such a great story that I wish was developed a little further. Definitely a laugh out loud read!
September 18, 2021
It wasn’t my favorite. I could not put it down but it reminded me of a bad movie. The way they solved problems seemed cheesy as well as the way the characters started to hang out right away. I could over look it but towards the end it was too much for me. The cheesieness was to chessey even for me. The spice wasn’t that good either so I really don’t know why I couldn’t put it down. The ending was bad and was like a bad rom com. Nothing with reading again. Sorry. :)
October 3, 2019
Ok read
The story was ok, and with some editing it could have been really good. The Hero was sweet and successful, the heroine was a really likable girl. I loved her confidence in herself and that she wasn’t constantly on a diet. Back to the need for editing... There were just a lot of unanswered questions and it really jumped around. There were also random references made that I just didn’t get. At one look I was checking amazon for other books leading up to this one, it had that “I just started in the middle of a series” feel. I also had a hard time understanding this guys thought process on dating. He stayed with an absolutely horrible led person for 9 years. He caught her cheating but later made the reference that he would have taken her back (why?). They were engaged but he referenced how he had never loved her (then why the 9 years). He never actually says I love you to the h while in the story even though he thinks it. His thought process is like he worships her etc but his actions aren’t really there, the epilogue reveals that he had just proposed. At this point they have been together for almost 2.5 years, I just don’t get the delay? I would have liked to have seen more of his feelings played out to her instead of just us reading his inner dialogue. It was still sweet but the romance was lost I guess?
The story was ok, and with some editing it could have been really good. The Hero was sweet and successful, the heroine was a really likable girl. I loved her confidence in herself and that she wasn’t constantly on a diet. Back to the need for editing... There were just a lot of unanswered questions and it really jumped around. There were also random references made that I just didn’t get. At one look I was checking amazon for other books leading up to this one, it had that “I just started in the middle of a series” feel. I also had a hard time understanding this guys thought process on dating. He stayed with an absolutely horrible led person for 9 years. He caught her cheating but later made the reference that he would have taken her back (why?). They were engaged but he referenced how he had never loved her (then why the 9 years). He never actually says I love you to the h while in the story even though he thinks it. His thought process is like he worships her etc but his actions aren’t really there, the epilogue reveals that he had just proposed. At this point they have been together for almost 2.5 years, I just don’t get the delay? I would have liked to have seen more of his feelings played out to her instead of just us reading his inner dialogue. It was still sweet but the romance was lost I guess?
August 26, 2019
3.5 Stars; possibly 4.
Willow, college student that isn't the biggest football fan.
Elvis, an injured NFL quarterback that is working his way back to the top.
They meet when she helps out Elvis's BFF wife. Not being a football fan, Willow doesn't know who he is. and as most stories like this goes, when the herione doesn't recognize the hero.. The hero decides not to tell b/c he likes someone to know him for him and not because of his "name".
Of course, I love this cheesy bit and it was written well.
What dropped the star and a half. Willow.
**Like the story says... her strong willed, sarcastic, funny self came across to much at times. I needed her to calm down and just talk normal girl.
**When she does find out who he is, it was toooo understanding. I needed a little angst. Some push and pull banner. That didn't form much of a conflict at the time but did add to Willow's mistrust.
I thought the Elvis was a great her. The side characters were great. There were lots of ahh moments, funny, serious and traitorous moments.
Dual POV. Overall a well written enjoyable story. Willow was just a little if not alot over the top at times.
Willow, college student that isn't the biggest football fan.
Elvis, an injured NFL quarterback that is working his way back to the top.
They meet when she helps out Elvis's BFF wife. Not being a football fan, Willow doesn't know who he is. and as most stories like this goes, when the herione doesn't recognize the hero.. The hero decides not to tell b/c he likes someone to know him for him and not because of his "name".
Of course, I love this cheesy bit and it was written well.
What dropped the star and a half. Willow.
**Like the story says... her strong willed, sarcastic, funny self came across to much at times. I needed her to calm down and just talk normal girl.
**When she does find out who he is, it was toooo understanding. I needed a little angst. Some push and pull banner. That didn't form much of a conflict at the time but did add to Willow's mistrust.
I thought the Elvis was a great her. The side characters were great. There were lots of ahh moments, funny, serious and traitorous moments.
Dual POV. Overall a well written enjoyable story. Willow was just a little if not alot over the top at times.
May 22, 2022
Oh man oh man.
This book started out strong for me but as it went on, it just kind of fell away. I actually really like Presley and Willow, I thought the chemistry was there and they were instantly comfortable around each other and how they interacted together. I liked how their story progressed and the little things they did for each other here and there. But that’s where most of the positives end…😬
I’m a big sports fan and the portrayal of this professional football team was just so hard for me to read. So much of it was improbable and leaned on the side of ridiculous. And the portrayal of her internship in the way she was automatically on her own without guidance from her supervisor was so inaccurate and random.
I hated the way the conflict was handled…both people didn’t understand what the other was mad about and then it was didn’t actually resolve that nicely? And then you also had a group of “villains” acting out some far-fetched plot against the Hero and it was just absolutely bizarre!
Like I said, Presley and Willow were actually really cute, but the crazy things going on in the background kind of took away from their story. ✨
This book started out strong for me but as it went on, it just kind of fell away. I actually really like Presley and Willow, I thought the chemistry was there and they were instantly comfortable around each other and how they interacted together. I liked how their story progressed and the little things they did for each other here and there. But that’s where most of the positives end…😬
I’m a big sports fan and the portrayal of this professional football team was just so hard for me to read. So much of it was improbable and leaned on the side of ridiculous. And the portrayal of her internship in the way she was automatically on her own without guidance from her supervisor was so inaccurate and random.
I hated the way the conflict was handled…both people didn’t understand what the other was mad about and then it was didn’t actually resolve that nicely? And then you also had a group of “villains” acting out some far-fetched plot against the Hero and it was just absolutely bizarre!
Like I said, Presley and Willow were actually really cute, but the crazy things going on in the background kind of took away from their story. ✨
Read
July 31, 2019🏈 Just Playin’ — LIVE! 🏈
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VXGXLM9
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07VXGXLM9
AUS: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07VXGXLM9
FREE to read in Kindle Unlimited!
Presley “Elvis” Carlton was at the top of his game. Number one draft pick, engaged to an up-and-coming model, and voted best player of the decade his first year on the field.
Things were golden. . . until an accident saw everything important torn from his grasp.
He’s determined to get his life back, and with a strict regime, and no time for a life outside of the game, the last thing he wants is the attention of a curvy college student whose only motto in life is to not take it too seriously.
Can an Australian expat show the struggling sports star there’s more to life than the next win? Or has Willow Underwood chewed off a chunk of man meat too thick for her to swallow?
Just Playin’ is a standalone sports romance RomCom that will give you all the feels. It has sexy scenes and several laugh-out-loud moments.
US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VXGXLM9
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07VXGXLM9
AUS: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B07VXGXLM9
FREE to read in Kindle Unlimited!
Presley “Elvis” Carlton was at the top of his game. Number one draft pick, engaged to an up-and-coming model, and voted best player of the decade his first year on the field.
Things were golden. . . until an accident saw everything important torn from his grasp.
He’s determined to get his life back, and with a strict regime, and no time for a life outside of the game, the last thing he wants is the attention of a curvy college student whose only motto in life is to not take it too seriously.
Can an Australian expat show the struggling sports star there’s more to life than the next win? Or has Willow Underwood chewed off a chunk of man meat too thick for her to swallow?
Just Playin’ is a standalone sports romance RomCom that will give you all the feels. It has sexy scenes and several laugh-out-loud moments.
July 25, 2019
I’ve read multiple sports romance books and after reading Just Playin’, I would’ve never guessed that this was the first time Shandi Boyes had ever dabbled into this genre. This book is everything you expect in a sports romance book but with a whole bunch more. This book truly had me laughing out loud in nearly every chapter and I’m pretty positive people thought I was crazy with how much I laughed. Once you meet the wonderful Willow you will understand that her personality is bigger than life and once you add in Elvis you’ve got pure perfection. You also meet some other characters in this book that make you fall in love with them as well and I’m hoping this isn’t the last time we hear from them. As I mentioned above, you could not tell this was Shandi’s first sports rom-com book, you’d expect this was her speciality after reading Just Playin’. You will not be disappointed in reading this book and you will be laughing so hard that your ribs hurt.
November 6, 2019
Simply Brilliant!
“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
Wow what a great read this was. I laughed until I cried and even cried a little when I wasn't laughing. This book had all the emotions but was so unlike any other sports romance or rom-com I have ever read. The storyline was pure perfection! The characters made me fall in love so hard I'm still sad it's over. I want more! So so much more!
This was the first book I have read from this author but it sure wont be the last. There were so many good inspirations in this work of art that has my hopes running high! This was definitely 5 gold stars for sure!
“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
Wow what a great read this was. I laughed until I cried and even cried a little when I wasn't laughing. This book had all the emotions but was so unlike any other sports romance or rom-com I have ever read. The storyline was pure perfection! The characters made me fall in love so hard I'm still sad it's over. I want more! So so much more!
This was the first book I have read from this author but it sure wont be the last. There were so many good inspirations in this work of art that has my hopes running high! This was definitely 5 gold stars for sure!
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