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The Dating Playbook #3
Defining the Rules
It started with friendship.
The best stories always do.
Our story sounds unlikely.
Bizarre.
A fable.
Like wine and cheese and my favorite pair of jeans,
Things got better over time—
Too good, it seemed.
Arlo Kostas was the starting running back for Brighton University.
His quick smile and sharp wit
Was enough to disarm even the biggest cynic.
And his perfectly defined abs and more perfect face,
Convinced the rest.
I was homesick,
Counting down the days until I returned home for spring break when we met.
Clinging to memories I’d been trying to hold onto for years
And then he tipped my world upside down.
Maybe it was bad luck.
Perhaps we were jinxed,
But things between Arlo and I were doomed,
Right from the very start.
We were supposed to be friends but like everything,
Lines kept getting blurred,
Now, we’re Defining the Rules.
Defining the Rules is a complete standalone and a part of The Dating Playbook series.
The best stories always do.
Our story sounds unlikely.
Bizarre.
A fable.
Like wine and cheese and my favorite pair of jeans,
Things got better over time—
Too good, it seemed.
Arlo Kostas was the starting running back for Brighton University.
His quick smile and sharp wit
Was enough to disarm even the biggest cynic.
And his perfectly defined abs and more perfect face,
Convinced the rest.
I was homesick,
Counting down the days until I returned home for spring break when we met.
Clinging to memories I’d been trying to hold onto for years
And then he tipped my world upside down.
Maybe it was bad luck.
Perhaps we were jinxed,
But things between Arlo and I were doomed,
Right from the very start.
We were supposed to be friends but like everything,
Lines kept getting blurred,
Now, we’re Defining the Rules.
Defining the Rules is a complete standalone and a part of The Dating Playbook series.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2020
1491 people are currently reading
1529 people want to read
About the author
Mariah Dietz
33 books1,855 followersThe One-Night Scrimmage, A New Forbidden/Secret Sports Romance is Coming May 20th!
Mariah Dietz is a USA Today Bestselling Author and self-proclaimed nerd. She lives with her husband and sons in North Carolina.
Mariah grew up in a tiny town outside of Portland, Oregon where she spent most of her time immersed in the pages of books that she both read and created.
She has a love for all things that include her family, good coffee, books, traveling, and dark chocolate. She's also been known to laugh at her own jokes.
Learn More:
→ www.mariahdietz.com
→ Sign-Up to Receive my Newsletter
→ Join My Reader Group on FB
→ Follow me on FB
Mariah Dietz is a USA Today Bestselling Author and self-proclaimed nerd. She lives with her husband and sons in North Carolina.
Mariah grew up in a tiny town outside of Portland, Oregon where she spent most of her time immersed in the pages of books that she both read and created.
She has a love for all things that include her family, good coffee, books, traveling, and dark chocolate. She's also been known to laugh at her own jokes.
Learn More:
→ www.mariahdietz.com
→ Sign-Up to Receive my Newsletter
→ Join My Reader Group on FB
→ Follow me on FB
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
May 16, 2021
Only been 6 months since I read it for the first time, and it’s still a great story. Just one thing though, if Arlo is half French (on his mom’s side) and half Italian (on his dad’s side), why is his last name Kostas? I know it as a Greek name but google let me know it can also be Spanish. So can someone please explain that to me?
This was top notch! Favourite of the series thus far, and I liked it so much better from beginning to end. Loved Arlo, loved Olivia! No complaints about them as individuals, or together. I love love love that they started with friendship and then moved on to a romantic relationship. I loved even more that they were both real people who made mistakes and didn't have a chip on their shoulders or a saviour complex (like Raegan, ooops).
I love the fact that she's giving us stories with new characters but what about the (very important) secondary characters in this story? I'm talking about Pax (!!!!!!), Rose, Ian (!), etc. - when do we get their stories?
There were some issues with the story, ngl, but they seem pretty minute after the fact. A ton of typos (and this always bothers me), wc and more - nothing a good proofreader can't fix (and I volunteer as tribute if this is the quality of writing she delivers every time).
I think I may have just found another favourite author, and I can't wait to get to Tyler's story - but after Saturday, because I have 30 bajillion things due and of course this is finally when I get back into reading after months.
This was top notch! Favourite of the series thus far, and I liked it so much better from beginning to end. Loved Arlo, loved Olivia! No complaints about them as individuals, or together. I love love love that they started with friendship and then moved on to a romantic relationship. I loved even more that they were both real people who made mistakes and didn't have a chip on their shoulders or a saviour complex (like Raegan, ooops).
I love the fact that she's giving us stories with new characters but what about the (very important) secondary characters in this story? I'm talking about Pax (!!!!!!), Rose, Ian (!), etc. - when do we get their stories?
There were some issues with the story, ngl, but they seem pretty minute after the fact. A ton of typos (and this always bothers me), wc and more - nothing a good proofreader can't fix (and I volunteer as tribute if this is the quality of writing she delivers every time).
I think I may have just found another favourite author, and I can't wait to get to Tyler's story - but after Saturday, because I have 30 bajillion things due and of course this is finally when I get back into reading after months.
December 31, 2020
I am a sucker for a great friends-to-lovers romance and this one was amazing. I loved how all of the pieces of the story fit so beautifully together. An exceptional read that I am sure I'll devour again!
July 25, 2020
DEFINING THE RULES is the third instalment in Maria Dietz’s contemporary, new adult THE DATING PLAYBOOK erotic, college romance series. This is Brighton College football star Arlo Kostas, and junior Olivia Reid’s story line. DEFINING THE RULES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Arlo and Olivia) DEFINING THE RULES follows the building relationship between twenty one year old, college juniors , football star Arlo Kostas, and Olivia Reid. Arlo Kostas has been side lined with a potential career ending injury, a career that has yet to start. Meeting his coach’s daughter Olivia Reid, stirs something deep within our story line hero but their relationship remains strictly in the friend zone, a zone that Arlo refuses to cross. As Olivia continues to pine for a boy back home, Arlo struggles with an uncertain future but a future he is hoping involves Olivia Reid. With the approach of spring break, Arlo offers to show Olivia the sights of metro Seattle in anticipation of her return to her home in Texas. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Arlo and Olivia, and the potential fall-out as secrets and lies threaten Olivia’s less than well-ordered life, and the possibility of Arlo losing it all.
Arlo Kostas is friends with Olivia’s roommate Rosa, and as such Arlo is constantly in Olivia’s orbit. Their growing friendship finds our couple doing relationship activities but a relationship that neither one is willing to label in the face of potential blow back from coaches, friends and the boy back home. The relationship between Arlo and Olivia is one of immediate attraction; a definite palpable sexual energy but Arlo struggles with an uncertain future, and Olivia battles between head and heart where her family and her heart align. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and seductive.
We are reintroduced to Arlo’s friends and fellow teammates: Lincoln Beckett and Raegan Lawson (Bending the Rules #1 / Breaking the Rules #2); team captain Paxton Lawson; Arlo's friends Caleb and Poppy; Olivia’s father Coach Harris and his wife Whitney, her roommate Rosa; Olivia’s friend back home Matt, and Arlo’s ex girlfriend Jade.
DEFINING THE RULES is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of secrets, lies, heart break and disappointment. The premise is engaging and inspiring ; the characters are colorful, impassioned and spirited; the romance is intimate, tender and heart warming.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual first person perspectives (Arlo and Olivia) DEFINING THE RULES follows the building relationship between twenty one year old, college juniors , football star Arlo Kostas, and Olivia Reid. Arlo Kostas has been side lined with a potential career ending injury, a career that has yet to start. Meeting his coach’s daughter Olivia Reid, stirs something deep within our story line hero but their relationship remains strictly in the friend zone, a zone that Arlo refuses to cross. As Olivia continues to pine for a boy back home, Arlo struggles with an uncertain future but a future he is hoping involves Olivia Reid. With the approach of spring break, Arlo offers to show Olivia the sights of metro Seattle in anticipation of her return to her home in Texas. What ensues is the slow building romance and relationship between Arlo and Olivia, and the potential fall-out as secrets and lies threaten Olivia’s less than well-ordered life, and the possibility of Arlo losing it all.
Arlo Kostas is friends with Olivia’s roommate Rosa, and as such Arlo is constantly in Olivia’s orbit. Their growing friendship finds our couple doing relationship activities but a relationship that neither one is willing to label in the face of potential blow back from coaches, friends and the boy back home. The relationship between Arlo and Olivia is one of immediate attraction; a definite palpable sexual energy but Arlo struggles with an uncertain future, and Olivia battles between head and heart where her family and her heart align. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate and seductive.
We are reintroduced to Arlo’s friends and fellow teammates: Lincoln Beckett and Raegan Lawson (Bending the Rules #1 / Breaking the Rules #2); team captain Paxton Lawson; Arlo's friends Caleb and Poppy; Olivia’s father Coach Harris and his wife Whitney, her roommate Rosa; Olivia’s friend back home Matt, and Arlo’s ex girlfriend Jade.
DEFINING THE RULES is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of secrets, lies, heart break and disappointment. The premise is engaging and inspiring ; the characters are colorful, impassioned and spirited; the romance is intimate, tender and heart warming.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 29, 2020
This was my favorite of the series so far! Defining The Rules was the third book in Mariah’s The Dating Playbook Series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I recommend you read them all. It was a very sweet, sassy, and sexy friends to lovers romance, but buckle up, it was a bumpy ride!
Olivia wanted her old life back, she was unsure how to live in the world she now belonged to. She couldn’t wait to graduate to be able to move back home. But would meeting Arlo change that?
It started out as just friends but soon blossomed into something more. Could she really start something when she knew she was leaving? Would he be enough to make her stay? Or would it be the worst mistake of her life?
I loved Arlo so much in the first two books but I fell even more! I just wanted to hug him! Their journey was heartbreaking at times but their love for one another was out of this world! I am not sure how Mariah can top this one, but I’m looking forward to finding out!!
Olivia wanted her old life back, she was unsure how to live in the world she now belonged to. She couldn’t wait to graduate to be able to move back home. But would meeting Arlo change that?
It started out as just friends but soon blossomed into something more. Could she really start something when she knew she was leaving? Would he be enough to make her stay? Or would it be the worst mistake of her life?
I loved Arlo so much in the first two books but I fell even more! I just wanted to hug him! Their journey was heartbreaking at times but their love for one another was out of this world! I am not sure how Mariah can top this one, but I’m looking forward to finding out!!
July 23, 2020
Just a heads up, I read this book in one sitting, and I really enjoyed it!
Arlo and Oliva meet through a mutual friend and Grace assumes Arlo has slept with said friend. Turns out, Arlo didn't and starts running into Grace more and more. Arlo just suffered a devastating injury that has put his last year of college football in jeopardy - not to mention his possible future NFL career. He's struggling with his injury and doesn't know how to cope with what it means. His girlfriend also broke up with him when the injury happened and he's not feeling relationships at the moment. Olivia on the other hand has had the same boyfriend since the sixth grade, but he goes to school in her home state of Texas (she's going to school in Seattle). However, things are a little rocky for them with their relationship being long distance. She's also dealing with a father who is also (emotionally) distance and is trying to navigate her current family dynamic. There is an added wrinkle to her family when she discovers a secret that threatens everything she has ever known about her own mother after agreeing to help Arlo turnaround his bad luck around.
As Arlo and Olivia spend more time together helping the other with their problems, their friendship starts to become something more than friendship. However, they each have their own stuff to work through. Grace has to learn to deal with change and decide what she really wants. Arlo has to learn to work through his injury and to trust Grace after a misunderstanding occurs that threatens his future.
You will see familiar characters from Dietz's previous books, which was super nice. This was a fun read and was what I needed at the moment!
I received a review copy for an honest review.
Arlo and Oliva meet through a mutual friend and Grace assumes Arlo has slept with said friend. Turns out, Arlo didn't and starts running into Grace more and more. Arlo just suffered a devastating injury that has put his last year of college football in jeopardy - not to mention his possible future NFL career. He's struggling with his injury and doesn't know how to cope with what it means. His girlfriend also broke up with him when the injury happened and he's not feeling relationships at the moment. Olivia on the other hand has had the same boyfriend since the sixth grade, but he goes to school in her home state of Texas (she's going to school in Seattle). However, things are a little rocky for them with their relationship being long distance. She's also dealing with a father who is also (emotionally) distance and is trying to navigate her current family dynamic. There is an added wrinkle to her family when she discovers a secret that threatens everything she has ever known about her own mother after agreeing to help Arlo turnaround his bad luck around.
As Arlo and Olivia spend more time together helping the other with their problems, their friendship starts to become something more than friendship. However, they each have their own stuff to work through. Grace has to learn to deal with change and decide what she really wants. Arlo has to learn to work through his injury and to trust Grace after a misunderstanding occurs that threatens his future.
You will see familiar characters from Dietz's previous books, which was super nice. This was a fun read and was what I needed at the moment!
I received a review copy for an honest review.
July 30, 2020
I loved the vibe of this book. The friends to lovers aspect of it was fabulous.
Arlo Kostas is such a flirt, he could make a nun blush. Olivia does try to resist his charms but it’s futile because he really is that irresistible.
Poor injured Arlo can’t play his beloved football and thinks he is cursed but Olivia is his good luck charm and can ward off the evil. He could have absolutely charmed his way into my pants.
Loved him. Loved Olivia. Love the gentle, building romance between them. Loved the little twists in the plot.
Arlo Kostas is such a flirt, he could make a nun blush. Olivia does try to resist his charms but it’s futile because he really is that irresistible.
Poor injured Arlo can’t play his beloved football and thinks he is cursed but Olivia is his good luck charm and can ward off the evil. He could have absolutely charmed his way into my pants.
Loved him. Loved Olivia. Love the gentle, building romance between them. Loved the little twists in the plot.
July 29, 2020
I can’t say enough about this book! I’ve loved Mariah from the very first book of hers that I read and this one is a new favorite!
Arlo and Olivia are my new favorite couple. This is a beautiful, slow burn romance that has you on the edge of your seat, wondering what’s going to happen next. I loved catching up with the old gang and really enjoyed learning more about Arlo and how amazing he is. Olivia is this strong, amazing woman and I just loved how everything evolved! I don’t want to give anything away, but please go read this right now!!!
Arlo and Olivia are my new favorite couple. This is a beautiful, slow burn romance that has you on the edge of your seat, wondering what’s going to happen next. I loved catching up with the old gang and really enjoyed learning more about Arlo and how amazing he is. Olivia is this strong, amazing woman and I just loved how everything evolved! I don’t want to give anything away, but please go read this right now!!!
August 14, 2020
3.5 stars
I was pretty excited to read this and was lucky enough to win a digital ARC through a Goodreads drawing!
I loved Arlo from the very beginning of this series and wanted him to fall for someone awesome. Olivia had her issues, but she was a good fit for Arlo, and I liked how willing she was to help him overcome his sudden string of "bad luck".
But, it was a slow-burn kind of story that didn't really start getting to the feels until close to 70% in. And there was this drawn-out mystery involving Olivia's family that was fairly predictable to me and that didn't really seem to contribute anything to the story, other than causing me to dislike Olivia's father and to inflate the word count.
Other than that, I enjoyed this book, and I feel it was a good addition to the series. And, we were introduced to another prospective couple for a future book (Olivia's roommate, Rose, who hooks up with guys, but doesn't date them, and Ian, a player on the football team who is a pretty nice guy). Their story won't be the next one, though, and apparently it won't be Paxton's story, either. It will instead be about Tyler Banks, a player who was introduced in this book. and who replaced Arlo while he was injured. It's titled Exploring the Rules, and is expected to release Oct 1.
I was pretty excited to read this and was lucky enough to win a digital ARC through a Goodreads drawing!
I loved Arlo from the very beginning of this series and wanted him to fall for someone awesome. Olivia had her issues, but she was a good fit for Arlo, and I liked how willing she was to help him overcome his sudden string of "bad luck".
But, it was a slow-burn kind of story that didn't really start getting to the feels until close to 70% in. And there was this drawn-out mystery involving Olivia's family that was fairly predictable to me and that didn't really seem to contribute anything to the story, other than causing me to dislike Olivia's father and to inflate the word count.
Other than that, I enjoyed this book, and I feel it was a good addition to the series. And, we were introduced to another prospective couple for a future book (Olivia's roommate, Rose, who hooks up with guys, but doesn't date them, and Ian, a player on the football team who is a pretty nice guy). Their story won't be the next one, though, and apparently it won't be Paxton's story, either. It will instead be about Tyler Banks, a player who was introduced in this book. and who replaced Arlo while he was injured. It's titled Exploring the Rules, and is expected to release Oct 1.
August 1, 2020
4.25 stars
A really sweet slow burn read. First book I’ve read of this author. I look forward to Rose and hopefully Ian’s book.
A really sweet slow burn read. First book I’ve read of this author. I look forward to Rose and hopefully Ian’s book.
October 22, 2022
4 You're Worth Forever Stars
Defining the Rules is the third book in The Dating Playbook series by Mariah Dietz.
I like how the author incorporated so much background. The hard parts of both Olivia and Arlo's lives, beyond them safely falling into each other. Liv's parental mess of a tangled web was a pivotal focus for their relationship to grow, but also for her to finally become more assured of herself. It's interesting how finding out her mother might not have been the one to actually give birth to her allowed her to realize and accept that the woman who raised her would always be her Mom.
I hope the next book allows us to see what becomes of Arlo's football career. We were given a small taste at the end of this book that allows hope he will make back on the field in time to impress some NFL scouts before he graduates. I so loved watching this man who appears to always be so upbeat find the true happiness his life was missing.
I also enjoyed how much we got to know Rose and see the possibilities for her and Ian building a relationship. Because I am so sure that they will be something amazing in the future. Right now she just has to get into the headspace that will allow her to even date, before she's even willing to accept the momentous way in which he hopes to care for her.
I liked the way in which Arlo and Olivia's lives weaved together before they even realized how many ways in which they were already connected.
Defining the Rules is the third book in The Dating Playbook series by Mariah Dietz.
I like how the author incorporated so much background. The hard parts of both Olivia and Arlo's lives, beyond them safely falling into each other. Liv's parental mess of a tangled web was a pivotal focus for their relationship to grow, but also for her to finally become more assured of herself. It's interesting how finding out her mother might not have been the one to actually give birth to her allowed her to realize and accept that the woman who raised her would always be her Mom.
I hope the next book allows us to see what becomes of Arlo's football career. We were given a small taste at the end of this book that allows hope he will make back on the field in time to impress some NFL scouts before he graduates. I so loved watching this man who appears to always be so upbeat find the true happiness his life was missing.
I also enjoyed how much we got to know Rose and see the possibilities for her and Ian building a relationship. Because I am so sure that they will be something amazing in the future. Right now she just has to get into the headspace that will allow her to even date, before she's even willing to accept the momentous way in which he hopes to care for her.
I liked the way in which Arlo and Olivia's lives weaved together before they even realized how many ways in which they were already connected.
March 14, 2021
INTENSE SLOW BURN + FRIENDS-TO-LOVERS!!
This book was a serious SLOW BURN!!! I felt like I would explode from the tension seeping from these pages! SO INTENSE at moments!
Arlo Kostas is one of the football players at Brighton University that was first introduced as a friend & roommate of Lincoln (Dating Playbook #1 Hero). His carefree and goofy attitude made me instantly like him so when I got to this book I was excited he got a story. Circumstances throw him and Olivia Reid together and from there it just catapults into one of the best friendships I've read in a long time! So many factors keep these two from taking immediate steps to each other regardless of the obvious attraction that surrounds them. The push and pull between them combined with the banter will have you smiling as you turn your pages. Don't think you are getting off without your heartstrings getting pulled a couple times though!
The friend crew in this series just gets better with each book; adding in another friend to the already amazing mix from book 1. I love it!
Below is the series! While I suggest reading the entire series to get the complete feeling of this great crew...I understand some might not. So book 1 and 2 need to be read together (same couple) and then the others in this series can be read as standalones!
The Dating Playbook
1. Bending the Rules (brothers best friend!)
2. Breaking the Rules (brothers best friend!)
3. Defining the Rules (Friends-to-Lovers)
4. Exploring the Rules (Enemies-to-Lovers)
5. Forgetting the Rules (Second-Chance)
6. Writing the Rules - COMING APRIL 29th! (Fake Dating)
This book was a serious SLOW BURN!!! I felt like I would explode from the tension seeping from these pages! SO INTENSE at moments!
Arlo Kostas is one of the football players at Brighton University that was first introduced as a friend & roommate of Lincoln (Dating Playbook #1 Hero). His carefree and goofy attitude made me instantly like him so when I got to this book I was excited he got a story. Circumstances throw him and Olivia Reid together and from there it just catapults into one of the best friendships I've read in a long time! So many factors keep these two from taking immediate steps to each other regardless of the obvious attraction that surrounds them. The push and pull between them combined with the banter will have you smiling as you turn your pages. Don't think you are getting off without your heartstrings getting pulled a couple times though!
The friend crew in this series just gets better with each book; adding in another friend to the already amazing mix from book 1. I love it!
Below is the series! While I suggest reading the entire series to get the complete feeling of this great crew...I understand some might not. So book 1 and 2 need to be read together (same couple) and then the others in this series can be read as standalones!
The Dating Playbook
1. Bending the Rules (brothers best friend!)
2. Breaking the Rules (brothers best friend!)
3. Defining the Rules (Friends-to-Lovers)
4. Exploring the Rules (Enemies-to-Lovers)
5. Forgetting the Rules (Second-Chance)
6. Writing the Rules - COMING APRIL 29th! (Fake Dating)
Read
February 3, 2022This book is good, but I just felt things were a little slow and I don't know why I felt Arlo's insecurity had him running out. Look out for Rose and Olivia's relationship, friendship like theirs is what I need.
I loved this quote because I always thought the same tooo!
Rose and I decided that pussy is now the term for being tough and ball sack is the term for the weak.I mean,it's accurate .A guy barely hits his nuts and falls over,meanwhile, women are having babies every minute of every day and I don't think I have to tell you where they are coming out of.
I loved this quote because I always thought the same tooo!
Rose and I decided that pussy is now the term for being tough and ball sack is the term for the weak.I mean,it's accurate .A guy barely hits his nuts and falls over,meanwhile, women are having babies every minute of every day and I don't think I have to tell you where they are coming out of.
January 30, 2024
Defining the Rules is the third book in The Dating Playbook series, but can be read as a standalone. This is a great slow burning friends to lovers story!
Arlo has definitely had a run of bad luck...sidelined from football with an injury, he continues to have a string of misfortune. But meeting Olivia may mean his luck is changing! Their friendship is fun and easy, and as Olivia tries to help Arlo change his negative feelings to positives, she ends up on her own life changing journey. Their chemistry was amazing, and I was immediately rooting for them! The slow burn build up and eventual collision of two people falling in love and desperately needing one another is HOT! I also loved the friendship between Olivia and Rose. They are representative of the kind of best friendship we all should have - women who are really “present” in each other’s lives and would do anything to support each other.
BRAVO Mariah! I will definitely be picking up the next book in the series ASAP!
Add to your TBR if you like:
-Slow Burn
-Friends to Lovers
-College Romance
-Football Player x Coach's Daughter
Arlo has definitely had a run of bad luck...sidelined from football with an injury, he continues to have a string of misfortune. But meeting Olivia may mean his luck is changing! Their friendship is fun and easy, and as Olivia tries to help Arlo change his negative feelings to positives, she ends up on her own life changing journey. Their chemistry was amazing, and I was immediately rooting for them! The slow burn build up and eventual collision of two people falling in love and desperately needing one another is HOT! I also loved the friendship between Olivia and Rose. They are representative of the kind of best friendship we all should have - women who are really “present” in each other’s lives and would do anything to support each other.
BRAVO Mariah! I will definitely be picking up the next book in the series ASAP!
Add to your TBR if you like:
-Slow Burn
-Friends to Lovers
-College Romance
-Football Player x Coach's Daughter
June 13, 2021
Curses and good luck charms
I so loved this book! I loved watching Arlo and Olivia's friendship develop and grow. They are so cute together and their friendship effortless. Arlo is such a good guy and everything he does to get Olivia fall in love with Seattle...swoon! 😍 I hope we get updates on them in future books as I am anxious to see how everything pans out for Arlo and football.
I so loved this book! I loved watching Arlo and Olivia's friendship develop and grow. They are so cute together and their friendship effortless. Arlo is such a good guy and everything he does to get Olivia fall in love with Seattle...swoon! 😍 I hope we get updates on them in future books as I am anxious to see how everything pans out for Arlo and football.
February 15, 2025
swooned ❤️
This book had me swooning so hard! Arlo is the man! Hot and sweet and totally in love❤️. Liv finds it hard to trust but realizes Arlo is her other half! I love how she “pussied” up immediately when she heard what was being done to Arlo. The are true love ❤️❤️❤️
This book had me swooning so hard! Arlo is the man! Hot and sweet and totally in love❤️. Liv finds it hard to trust but realizes Arlo is her other half! I love how she “pussied” up immediately when she heard what was being done to Arlo. The are true love ❤️❤️❤️
March 18, 2025
aww this was so so good. arlo and olivia’s relationship progressed slowly, but in a way that was perfect for them. witnessing them fall in love without fully registering it was too sweet 🥹 definitely will re-read this
song: you belong with me - taylor swift 💕
song: you belong with me - taylor swift 💕
August 1, 2020
Absolutely loved this book! There were so many stories going on and I was almost afraid that they wouldn’t all wrap up. But, in the end, everything was answered! The mystery back and forth on Juliet was awesome! I really enjoyed the unknown! Excellent read!!
July 26, 2020
Oh sweet, sweet Arlo!!! You can be my Hulk and Thor any day. ❤❤❤ Olivia is perfect for him. Their bond is amazing, their story perfect. Defining the Rules is a must read!!!
July 30, 2020
Wow! Wow! Wow! I was really surprised by how much I loved this book. After reading Bending and Breaking the Rules I just couldn't wait to read more about these characters. I loved Reagan and Lincoln, but Arlo! Arlo! Arlo and Olivia just did it to me. I totally fell in live with these two characters. Oh how much I loved those two.
So I have to admit that Defining the Rules is even better than the first two books (and I already loved those).
Defining the Rules is just everything! It's such an amazing, heartfelt and passionate book. It's definitely a new favourite of mine and one of the best books I've read this year! I don't think I can find the right words to describe how much I loved this book! You just have to experiance it for yourself. And believe me, it's definitely worth it!
Defining the Rules is quite long, but I love big books (haha) and I never got bored, on the contrary! I couldn't stop reading!
I really liked the beginning of this book, how Arlo and Olivia met and then how their friendship developed. It's kinda slow burn but then again not... I just really enjoyed that this is one of those few books where you actually get to know the characters inside and out, and it doesn't just focus on the sexual tension or general erotica. This book is all about the characters and their freindship, how they get to know each other through the book and their development as characters and in their friendship. It's just extraordinary! Definitely a masterpiece.
So, if you read even just one book this year, let it be this one! You won't be disappointed.
So I have to admit that Defining the Rules is even better than the first two books (and I already loved those).
Defining the Rules is just everything! It's such an amazing, heartfelt and passionate book. It's definitely a new favourite of mine and one of the best books I've read this year! I don't think I can find the right words to describe how much I loved this book! You just have to experiance it for yourself. And believe me, it's definitely worth it!
Defining the Rules is quite long, but I love big books (haha) and I never got bored, on the contrary! I couldn't stop reading!
I really liked the beginning of this book, how Arlo and Olivia met and then how their friendship developed. It's kinda slow burn but then again not... I just really enjoyed that this is one of those few books where you actually get to know the characters inside and out, and it doesn't just focus on the sexual tension or general erotica. This book is all about the characters and their freindship, how they get to know each other through the book and their development as characters and in their friendship. It's just extraordinary! Definitely a masterpiece.
So, if you read even just one book this year, let it be this one! You won't be disappointed.
October 23, 2020
Another friends-to-lovers story, this one comes from a different angle. In the books from this series I've read so far, I find I can't help but like Arlo. He seems so easy going and the life of the party. But, when he's injured and is unable to play football for the season, his world turns upside down. There's a chance he'll lose his scholarship, and he's pushing himself to overcome the knee injury that could steal his future. And... he believes he's been cursed.
Olivia wants to graduate from college and go home. Never mind that she has no family back in Texas to go home to, she misses her friends, her sort-of boyfriend, and the heat that she doesn't get going to school in the northwest. When she wakes one morning to find Arlo sitting at her kitchen table, she discovers something more than she expected while attending college. She finds a friend, someone who is kind, who sticks up for those in need, and someone who has a heart not everyone sees. Perhaps she sees too much. Especially when one action could ruin everything between them.
I think this might be my favorite of the stories. The way these two talk themselves out of becoming more than friends is laughable, and the sweet moments they have together are so poignant for each of them. And then there's the kitten...
I've enjoyed reading this author's books. They've been a pleasant break from what is going on in the world. And I'm looking forward to the release of another book in this series.
Olivia wants to graduate from college and go home. Never mind that she has no family back in Texas to go home to, she misses her friends, her sort-of boyfriend, and the heat that she doesn't get going to school in the northwest. When she wakes one morning to find Arlo sitting at her kitchen table, she discovers something more than she expected while attending college. She finds a friend, someone who is kind, who sticks up for those in need, and someone who has a heart not everyone sees. Perhaps she sees too much. Especially when one action could ruin everything between them.
I think this might be my favorite of the stories. The way these two talk themselves out of becoming more than friends is laughable, and the sweet moments they have together are so poignant for each of them. And then there's the kitten...
I've enjoyed reading this author's books. They've been a pleasant break from what is going on in the world. And I'm looking forward to the release of another book in this series.
April 9, 2022
This book is my favorite of the whole series (not that the others books isn't, actually i love the series, but this one definitely have my heart). Here we have Arlo's story and i have to say: I WANT ARLO FOR MYSELF (where i can buy one of this? Kkkkkk). Arlo combines caractheristics like: hot guy, a perfect smile (in my imagination, of curse, but it's still works), a good humor and a good heart. Seriously, this book made me laugh and fell in love for the characters so fast and so deeply that i finished and needed more. Olivia is a girl that completes him and i love her too. Like the most books from the author i have to say that i love how she manage themes that you didn't see, often, like animal preservation, zoos and ambiental causes. I simply in love for this book, and definitely it's one on my favorites.
May 2, 2021
Sweet and easy read
Arlo believes he was cursed by an old lady on a drunken night out. He’s had a string of bad luck, starting with tearing his ACL and being unable to play football for the remainder of his junior year at college. He’s feeling the pressure to get back on the field because scouts will be watching and he desperately wants to be drafted next year.
One morning he goes round to Rose’s apartment (his biology partner) and meets her roommate, Olivia. After spending some time with her, he notices he has good luck whenever they’re together. Great luck even. And so decides that she’s his lucky charm.
They slowly start to develop feelings for each other, but there are obstacles standing in their way. Namely Olivia’s father, who is Arlo’s coach, and her sort-of-but-not on-again-off-again boyfriend, Matt, back in Texas.
Arlo and Olivia were actually so cute together! You witness the building of their slow and tentative friendship, and watch it blossom into something much deeper. Something neither of them seem ready to acknowledge. Throw in a bit of mystery and drama and BAM! That’s this book in a nutshell.
I love Olivia and Rose’s friendship too, how strong they are together and how much they lean on each other when times get tough. And Arlo is such a good guy. He’s a gentleman, thoughtful, a great friend, yet aware of his faults which just makes him so endearing.
This was a sweet, easy read, with a dollop of smut towards the end for good measure.
Arlo believes he was cursed by an old lady on a drunken night out. He’s had a string of bad luck, starting with tearing his ACL and being unable to play football for the remainder of his junior year at college. He’s feeling the pressure to get back on the field because scouts will be watching and he desperately wants to be drafted next year.
One morning he goes round to Rose’s apartment (his biology partner) and meets her roommate, Olivia. After spending some time with her, he notices he has good luck whenever they’re together. Great luck even. And so decides that she’s his lucky charm.
They slowly start to develop feelings for each other, but there are obstacles standing in their way. Namely Olivia’s father, who is Arlo’s coach, and her sort-of-but-not on-again-off-again boyfriend, Matt, back in Texas.
Arlo and Olivia were actually so cute together! You witness the building of their slow and tentative friendship, and watch it blossom into something much deeper. Something neither of them seem ready to acknowledge. Throw in a bit of mystery and drama and BAM! That’s this book in a nutshell.
I love Olivia and Rose’s friendship too, how strong they are together and how much they lean on each other when times get tough. And Arlo is such a good guy. He’s a gentleman, thoughtful, a great friend, yet aware of his faults which just makes him so endearing.
This was a sweet, easy read, with a dollop of smut towards the end for good measure.
April 24, 2023
loved this book!
I haven’t read a friends to lovers trope in a while, and this book did not disappoint.
I was so excited to read Arlo’s story after his appearance in Reagan and
Linclon’s story.
I genuinely laughed out loud a good hundred times whilst reading this book. The 1 and 2nd book(about Lincoln and Rae) were funny too don’t get me wrong, but
Arlo is just so much more of a funny character. Probably because he’s so carefree and chill but also charismatic, as opposed to Lincoln who; whilst being charismatic, is also a lot more private and strategic.
Arlo just makes me want to smile, so something bad happening to him just makes me want to scream “why him!!!”😅
I really like Olivia too. Honestly speaking, before reading this book, I would never in a million years willingly read a book that has a southern character in it😅(no offence to and southerners reading this) it’s just because I’m not the biggest fan of the accent (mostly for guys) so I don’t really want to be imagining the southern accent when reading the characters words. But I think the fact that Olivia was the southern one rather than Arlo made it a lot easier to digest I guess, plus I like her personality. And this book has made be not hate the southern accent for character in a book as much as I used to for female characters at least (baby steps😅)
Overall though, this book is most definitely worth the read, and the £5 I spent on it haha. I would 100% read it again and recommend others to read this book!
I haven’t read a friends to lovers trope in a while, and this book did not disappoint.
I was so excited to read Arlo’s story after his appearance in Reagan and
Linclon’s story.
I genuinely laughed out loud a good hundred times whilst reading this book. The 1 and 2nd book(about Lincoln and Rae) were funny too don’t get me wrong, but
Arlo is just so much more of a funny character. Probably because he’s so carefree and chill but also charismatic, as opposed to Lincoln who; whilst being charismatic, is also a lot more private and strategic.
Arlo just makes me want to smile, so something bad happening to him just makes me want to scream “why him!!!”😅
I really like Olivia too. Honestly speaking, before reading this book, I would never in a million years willingly read a book that has a southern character in it😅(no offence to and southerners reading this) it’s just because I’m not the biggest fan of the accent (mostly for guys) so I don’t really want to be imagining the southern accent when reading the characters words. But I think the fact that Olivia was the southern one rather than Arlo made it a lot easier to digest I guess, plus I like her personality. And this book has made be not hate the southern accent for character in a book as much as I used to for female characters at least (baby steps😅)
Overall though, this book is most definitely worth the read, and the £5 I spent on it haha. I would 100% read it again and recommend others to read this book!
December 8, 2020
In the first 2 books in this series, we meet Arlo. His friendship with the guys, as well as Rae Rae, lets us know he is a loyal guy who stands by those he loves, but relationships aren't something he has given much thought to. The one girl he thought could be more than a hook -ups leaves him at the beginning of what he calls his bad luck. Things seem to be piling up against him - until he meets Olivia.
Olivia has been living in the Seattle area for 4 years expecting to return to Texas once she finishes college. Her life took a turn which landed her permanently living with her dad. Their relationship isn't easy and hits an even rougher patch when lies are revealed. Her friendship with Arlo is unexpected but something she can't ignore. The ease they have is refreshing. I loved the way they were friends before jumping into anything together. Their relationship develops slowly while their lives are changing around them. From a curse to a family secret, Arlo and Olivia find themselves leaning on each other. Through it all they realize what they have built is much better than friendship, it's real love.
Olivia's best friend,Rose, is an interesting character. Her no date rule hopefully changes in the next book. She deserves a great guy to show her what love is all about!
Olivia has been living in the Seattle area for 4 years expecting to return to Texas once she finishes college. Her life took a turn which landed her permanently living with her dad. Their relationship isn't easy and hits an even rougher patch when lies are revealed. Her friendship with Arlo is unexpected but something she can't ignore. The ease they have is refreshing. I loved the way they were friends before jumping into anything together. Their relationship develops slowly while their lives are changing around them. From a curse to a family secret, Arlo and Olivia find themselves leaning on each other. Through it all they realize what they have built is much better than friendship, it's real love.
Olivia's best friend,Rose, is an interesting character. Her no date rule hopefully changes in the next book. She deserves a great guy to show her what love is all about!
January 28, 2021
First and for most, I hearby claim Arlo as my forever book boyfriend.
This is another amazing book by Mariah Dietz. (It can be a standalone but I highly recommend reading Bending the Rules and Breaking the Rules first.)
A friends to lovers slow burn. It's witty and sexy and so sweet.
We saw some of Arlo in Lincoln and Reagan's story but I'm so glad he got his own book. He is funny and caring and loyal and just a really good guy. He believes he has been cursed, as one bad thing after another happens. After being injured, he's determined to get back on the field as quickly as possible and enlists Olivia's help in breaking the curse.
Olivia has always wanted to move back to Texas. She also has a not quite dating but has been in love with since they were kids guy there. With this in mind she strictly friend zones Arlo. Their friendship begins to build into something more though as they spend time together trying to break the curse and also as she starts to discover life altering news about herself.
Seeing their relationship blossom so naturally you'll fall in love yourself.
My favorite quote ever!
"But you're guacamole, babe. And I don’t want him to treat you like you're run-of-the-mill salsa."- Rose
This is another amazing book by Mariah Dietz. (It can be a standalone but I highly recommend reading Bending the Rules and Breaking the Rules first.)
A friends to lovers slow burn. It's witty and sexy and so sweet.
We saw some of Arlo in Lincoln and Reagan's story but I'm so glad he got his own book. He is funny and caring and loyal and just a really good guy. He believes he has been cursed, as one bad thing after another happens. After being injured, he's determined to get back on the field as quickly as possible and enlists Olivia's help in breaking the curse.
Olivia has always wanted to move back to Texas. She also has a not quite dating but has been in love with since they were kids guy there. With this in mind she strictly friend zones Arlo. Their friendship begins to build into something more though as they spend time together trying to break the curse and also as she starts to discover life altering news about herself.
Seeing their relationship blossom so naturally you'll fall in love yourself.
My favorite quote ever!
"But you're guacamole, babe. And I don’t want him to treat you like you're run-of-the-mill salsa."- Rose
August 2, 2022
This book was surprisingly good for me. I figured they were be friends for a few chapters then be lover for the rest of the book but nope. Their friendship really submitted a real relationship near the end of the book. They were both falling in with each other at the same time or that is what I felt like. I did cry, laughed and got mad. I didn't expected this book to be more about her and about him the twists and tons of who her mother was was really shocking and how his curse disappeared when she was around. I love Olivia and Arlo so much. I'm also glad that I saw a bit of Lincoln and Reagan and saw them in other people's point of views. I love the relationship between Rose and Olivia I love how Rose and Arlo are just friends. I'm hoping that in the next book with you I'll figure out what Rosie's story is but I can understand why she doesn't want a relationships because of what happened with her family. I can't wait to eat the next books in a series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2020
Arlo found his lucky charm
Love Olivia and Arlo's story! Arlo isn't a total douche canoe (thankfully) but he isn't known for his commitment level; lots of casual relationships/sex and not really putting relationships a priority for him. However, that changes with Olivia.
Olivia thinks she knows what she wants in life. She quickly comes to realize that what she really wants/needs isn't what she thought they were.
They started out as casual friends that became close friends. They would both move heaven and earth to be there for the other person; in good and bad times. That was the major catalyst that made them realize they had fallen in love with the other.
On a side note: All of Arlo's "bad luck" is ridiculously funny.
Perfect story of bad luck, family secrets, football injury angst, a not-really-boyfriend boyfriend and a lucky charm.
Love Olivia and Arlo's story! Arlo isn't a total douche canoe (thankfully) but he isn't known for his commitment level; lots of casual relationships/sex and not really putting relationships a priority for him. However, that changes with Olivia.
Olivia thinks she knows what she wants in life. She quickly comes to realize that what she really wants/needs isn't what she thought they were.
They started out as casual friends that became close friends. They would both move heaven and earth to be there for the other person; in good and bad times. That was the major catalyst that made them realize they had fallen in love with the other.
On a side note: All of Arlo's "bad luck" is ridiculously funny.
Perfect story of bad luck, family secrets, football injury angst, a not-really-boyfriend boyfriend and a lucky charm.
August 10, 2020
I received an advanced copy of this book and am choosing to review it. This the second book of the series, the first one is a duet but you can dive in because this is a standalone there’s need to read the first one unless you’re ocd there’s some mention of the first couple but not mayor spoilers. Arlo is the star of the football team of his college he suffered a injury and think that his cursed since then he met Oliva through a moot friend. Olivia want to show him that there’s no such thing as curse so they star spending time together which lead them to developing a friendship. The story is a slow burn, I love the way their friendship and love develops. It has funny moments, tear jerker and steamy. HEA
January 20, 2021
What's worth forever?!
I'm not sure how I read 1,2 & 4 in this series and skipped right past Arlo. But perfect timing because Ian and Rose are coming in about a week.
I have had a soft spot for Arlo for some time, he gives you this comfort of knowing you're gonna fall in love with him. Olivia is like so many, afraid of change because it means learning to move forward while trying to hold on to memories of the past. These two had an ease about them, their friendship was a beautiful thing. I'm always amazed at the pressure placed on college athletes and the business it is. I think a main thing I loved about this book was showing that ALL relationships take effort. I'm so glad this was Arlo's journey, Liv was everything he needed and more.
I'm not sure how I read 1,2 & 4 in this series and skipped right past Arlo. But perfect timing because Ian and Rose are coming in about a week.
I have had a soft spot for Arlo for some time, he gives you this comfort of knowing you're gonna fall in love with him. Olivia is like so many, afraid of change because it means learning to move forward while trying to hold on to memories of the past. These two had an ease about them, their friendship was a beautiful thing. I'm always amazed at the pressure placed on college athletes and the business it is. I think a main thing I loved about this book was showing that ALL relationships take effort. I'm so glad this was Arlo's journey, Liv was everything he needed and more.
May 24, 2021
A cute romance read.
Olivia is a sweet southern belle. Arlo is flirty and confident. He’s currently injured from playing football and thinks he’s cursed. Bad luck follows him except when he’s around Olivia. She finds out some things about her past and it’s a major part of the book. Arlo helps her throughout this process. They become best friends and they slowly start to fall for each other.
I liked this book and their friendship. There was some drama besides her family that I think didn’t have to be included. Especially toward the end. Some scenes go on for too long and I skimmed through those. Not the most memorable. Overall the romance was okay and I enjoyed the book, just wasn’t my favorite.
3 Stars.
Olivia is a sweet southern belle. Arlo is flirty and confident. He’s currently injured from playing football and thinks he’s cursed. Bad luck follows him except when he’s around Olivia. She finds out some things about her past and it’s a major part of the book. Arlo helps her throughout this process. They become best friends and they slowly start to fall for each other.
I liked this book and their friendship. There was some drama besides her family that I think didn’t have to be included. Especially toward the end. Some scenes go on for too long and I skimmed through those. Not the most memorable. Overall the romance was okay and I enjoyed the book, just wasn’t my favorite.
3 Stars.
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