Forever Blake

Once Upon a Player #3

by Elena Matthews

𝗢𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘂𝗽𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲…

𝗔 𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀, “𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆, 𝗮 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗹𝗶𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝘂𝗽𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻.”

𝗦𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁…

...𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗮𝗹𝗹.

Hotshot lawyer Blake has always lived the bachelor life, never wanting to be with a woman more than once.

Until Ever comes along.

When a one-night stand turns into an unexpected life-altering weekend, Blake desperately wants to see her again.

What Blake doesn’t anticipate is seeing her so soon … as she’s being introduced to him as the new summer intern, who happens to be the boss’s twenty-two-year-old daughter.

A dead man walking, Blake makes it clear to Ever that nothing can happen again. He has too much riding on his career.

However, the electrical charge between them is unlike anything he’s ever felt, and when the tension gets to be too much, Blake finds it impossible to stay away from her.

Will Blake risk it all for Ever, or will he let the ten-year age gap and the fact that she’s his boss’s daughter get in the way of his happiness?

Genres: Contemporary

Unknown Binding

Published April 16, 2021

About the author

Receptionist by day, author by night, Elena Matthews is from Manchester, United Kingdom, the home of Manchester United, MediaCity, and of course, Coronation Street. When Elena isn’t writing, she can be found with her nose in a book or watching guilty pleasures, such as Grey’s Anatomy. And, when she isn’t doing those things, you can often find her on Facebook, or obsessing over Kellan Kyle, book-boyfriend extraordinaire.

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Full list of books

Reviews

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Blake by Elena Matthews is book 3 in the Once Upon a Player Series. This is the story of Blake and Ever. I did feel this was a standalone book. Blake has watch his siblings fall in love and so this book is his road to happiness. Ever and Blake have a one night stand that comes back to haunt them a few days later when they find that they will be working at the same law firm. But Blake is a Jr at the firm and Ever is a intern but whose father is in charge and that is where the fun begins. This was a steamy but funny read. I will be looking for more book from this author.

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading stories where the premise is a one night stand gone awry! Throw in an age-gap and I am in reader bliss! Forever Blake has a few more tropes that enhanced my overall experience with the story. The close proximity / office romance is what gave Blake and Ever the realism they needed for such a short book. Because they had no choice but to work together, it gave them a step-up in the get to know you department. When you see a person on the daily, as opposed to maybe once a week, you tend to fall faster if the chemistry and compatibility are sparking off the charts. That’s what this story has. It’s a big package that worked really well all around. It allowed the story that much more realism and relatability.

I’ve read this series from the beginning and what caught my eye at first was the cover, because yes, I’m that girl LOL It has been a great reading experience from the very first page. Elena Matthews gives us well written stories with delicious spark, realistic scenarios and relatable circumstances. Go forth and enjoy!

[AND 1515 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Age is just a number; however maturity is a choice....
by and1515

Blake had been out toasting the town with his siblings and their significant others.
When she caught his eye and so he kept watching her and yeah she wasn't his go to flavor of the female persuasion.
But hey a man should occasionally sample new varieties and he was hoping she'd be up to a little private partying after closing time.
And wow oh wow she had him totally tied in knots and about ready to blast off at any moment until he honestly couldn't see straight.
Then he went to work and his Monday just became a little more exciting then he normally expected and oh yeah he was trying to breath.
Blake was still trying to wrap his head around the fact he got hot and jiggy with a beautiful woman who Unfortunately now was someone he really probably shouldn't have.
Because hay there are certain codes that a few good guys for some dumb reason feel totally obliged to follow without question.
However there's nothing hotter than a woman how knows how to handle a some jerk trying to tear her down.
And nope he wasn't going to let his brain over rule his best side because honestly he was extremely famished.
Blake was totally blind-sided by an outrageously angry adversary who nailed him with a hefty one-two punch to his face and his pride.
And like an even bigger fool Blake made the worst mistake in his life.
Still once his sanity finally returns he'll need a huge miracle and maybe even a tasty bribe.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Escape to the pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written love story with a slight twist on the boss/junior employee trope.

I loved both the characters, especially Ever who was written as such a strong woman who most definitely knew her own mind. I loved how she put Blake in his place in the beginning when he was freaking out about them having slept together and her age.
But then I really liked how Blake came to his senses and realised how his behaviour was unacceptable.

The family interactions are great and whilst I don’t feel I had to have read the previous stories to enjoy this, I’m eager to do so having read this book.

In fact, I’m excited to see how Jace and Kiki turn out...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blake has just been promoted to a junior partner, and he goes out to celebrate and finally runs across a woman (Ever) who might challenge his rule about only having one night stands. Unfortunately Ever wasn't willing to give him more than some time on the weekend, but sometimes fate has other things in store. Blake doesn't take it so well when he runs across Ever again, will he ruin his chance with Ever? Do they even have a future? I loved Ever she is sassy, smart and willing to teach Blake some lessons (even if she is younger than him). Blake is certainly confident, caring and knows he is good at his job, but he is going to insert his foot in his mouth at times. I loved both Blake and Ever, and their romance and challenges.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this one!
Let’s face it, I had my doubts about Blake the ‘man whore’. Who wouldn’t, right??? But boy is he a redeemable character! I loved him almost from the first page. He came across as a ‘only in it for the fun’ party guy, but then he catches feelings and can’t stop thinking about her - Ever. Of course that could be because now he has to see her everyday and ignore his feelings for her.
Ha ha ha!!!!
What’s a man to do?

I typically prefer dual POV - this one is only from Blake’s POV which is really unique. I love it!

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great romance with some drama.
Blake and Ever are great characters. She is smart, sassy and sexy. She definitely knows what she wants and is not afraid goes after.
Blake, one sharp lawyer but needs some kick in the behind to put his priorities in order.
His brothers are hoot.
Really enjoyable series.I started from this book and have no idea how I missed others, twins story.
Time to read theirs story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cheryl T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don’t make super important decisions when you are drunk off scotch.

Blake and Ever’s story was so good.

Ever was strong and sassy. She worked hard at her intern job plus had her job at Happy Hour. She maybe should have waited until the scotch wore off before making any hasty decisions.

Blake was confident and cocky. He tried really hard to keep things professional between himself and Ever, but what are you going to do when you’ve found the one? He also maybe should have waited until the scotch wore off before making any hasty decisions.

Really enjoyed this story. Can’t wait for Jace’s book!!

[Sua · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a one night stand together, Blake and Ever are shocked to find out a couple days later that they work in the same law firm where Ever is newly interning and that she is also the bosses daughter where Blake is junior partner for. The office romance between this couple is funny with their witty bantering and so sweet with their feelings being more developed as they work together. There was a good amount of steamy scenes between them and the secrecy of their relationship kept you wondering how things would unfold when people found out about them.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book with strong characters in Blake and Ever. The author does a great job developing her characters and painting her scenes. She gives them a hot chemistry and weaves an entertaining story line. The story moves quickly and smoothly and is an enjoyable read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Gemma Hodgson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this read, easy and fun not to heavy. Really good laughs in places.
I’m enjoying reading the series develop and reading the different brothers but still seeing the others crop up.
Age gap/ forbidden love was written very well and not unbelievable how it happened either.

I received a free copy and leaving a voluntary review.

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the theme of this storyline it was entertaining and the characters engaging and well developed with plenty of chemistry throughout the pages.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can we all agree that this cover is so very yummy?! I can honestly say that Blake will be in my mind's eye for a very long time since I can't stop staring at this cover to be honest. Anyway, Blake had a one night stand that became so much more despite his playboy ways, so he ended up spending the weekend with Ever, but when he comes to work, he learns that she's the new summer intern AND the boss's daughter to boot. Can you say complicated?! He's doing his best to stay away from her but the connection these two have isn't about to take his concerns into consideration (plus they see each other everyday because of work) so let the crazy games begin. These two have an intense chemistry which was so potent that I certainly felt it come through my kindle. I also was on the edge of my seat waiting for their secret to come to light as all dirty (and I mean dirty sexy) little secrets always come to light so I promise you don't want to miss this story! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVE this series and always look forward to the next book, and Blake's was certainly no different.

Blake and Everly meet at a bar and have an incredible one-night stand. But then, when they come face-to-face at the office, suddenly a fling turns into something so much more.

Throw in an age-gap romance, and well, your fingers will be flying through the pages of your kindle as you read this beauty, and you will for certain fall in love with Blake. There is a perfect amount of steam and witty banter to keep you laughing and wanting to jump into the book and become one of the characters yourself.

This was a great addition to the series, and I hope Elena comes out with more!

[Ashley Hampton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have loved every story in this series, and have been anticipating Blake’s book simply because I couldn’t wait for this womanizer to fall on his knees for a woman. I can say I am a fan favorite of an office romance, a age gap romance, a book filled with witty banter, and Forever Blake had all three.

I adore Elena Matthews’ writing in the general sense. She captivates my attention and has me head of her hills for her characters by the end, and Blake and Ever was no different. I gobbled this book up in no time. The writing was easy to follow, and the development flowed nicely. I have seen a similar storyline, but Matthews made this one her own. Forever Blake was a light hearted Romance that held witty banter and great dialogue.

I really enjoyed getting to know Ever. I loved how sassy and independent she was. Not only can she hang with the best, but she is unbelievably smart. Blake is just how I imagined him, but to see a sensitive side to him is what made this book for me. Overall, Forever Blake was a really good book, and I look forward to this authors future work.

*I RECOMMEND

[Corinne Akers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forever Blake

Oh my!! This books gives you all the feels! Blake and Everly meet at a bar where she is tending bar. The chemistry between them explodes off the pages of this book. Everly is fiesta, witty, intelligent and gives Blake a run for his money!! He’s never been challenged by a woman before, and he finds that he loves every minute of it!! After spending hours talking, they decide to have a one night stand and then go their separate ways!! But, after one incredible night, they both start to feel more for each other - even though neither will admit it!! Fast forward to Monday morning and Blake is in his bosses office waiting to meet his new intern, who also is his bosses daughter!! When he stands to meet Reagan, his eyes lock onto none other than Everly!! Wait - What?!?! What ensues afterwards is a journey into friendship and falling in love! I loved everything about this book! It was sexy, funny, breathtaking, romantic and suspenseful!! Definitely a page turner!! A must read romance for sure!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blake has a great one night stand with an amazing woman, Ever. At work the next week, Blake is introduced to his new intern, Reagan. But Ever and Reagan are one and the same. Oh, and she is his bosses daughter. He tries to resist her but how can he resist the perfect woman?
Opinion
This is great novella. The characters are absolutely loveable. (Even though Blake can be an arrogant egomaniac.) The setting was interesting as most of the book took place at work, and they certainly did some stuff at work I would never do. The story flowed so seamlessly that the reader feels like they are there. I have enjoyed reading this series so much and look forward to the rest.
Many thanks to Bare Naked Words for providing me with an ARC of this book.

[Kelly Kemmerly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This family of players never stops amazing me. Blake is the third brother to fall, but not without complications that raise the bar. Ever casts her spell on Blake as she tends bar and spends “one magical” night with him. NO attachments. NO last names. NO replays. Lust, orgasms, and all night carnage is the only requirement, check.
Ever has her plans to attend Harvard Law after the summer intern position is over. She’s set and Blake is just a bit of fun. Blake carries on as the new junior partner at one of the best law firms in the city. Life is good, until both Ever and Blake realize they crawled deep under each other’s skin.
Explosive, sexy, and full of electric banter from all characters!

[CS · Rating 4 out of 5]

3 1/2 Stars

It helped that Reagan/Ever was pretty level headed, and whip smart when she got tangled up with Blake during her internship prior to attending law school. Blake crossed all sorts of lines as he pursued his attraction to Ever who was ten years younger, his new intern, and his boss’s daughter.
Lots of forbidden sexy scenes that led to a bit of growing up for them both.
Their relationship was sweet despite the steamy scenes they shared.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LLS · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great addition to this series! Blake and Ever meet at the bar where she is bartending and that meeting results in an agreed upon one night stand. They meet again at the law firm where Blake is a junior partner and Ever is the new intern and the boss's much younger daughter. This was a fun read for anyone who enjoys office age gap romance. I really enjoyed reading their journey to happiness! Love this series

Thank you for the privilege of reading this book! Well done

[Brooke Rollins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! Elena really does write the best books no matter what trope it is. This one is a mixture of an age difference/ workplace...there’s about four different ones and I love it so much! Plus the bonus of getting to see the rest of the family and where they are is always my favorite. I definitely tried to savor this story and I’m so sad to finish it. I never wanted it to end!!

[Maja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first read from this author. I absolutely loved the first person point of view of the story. This is a deal breaker for me. This story made me laugh, specially at the beginning. I will read more from this author in the future.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathy Mccalmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the once upon a player series. This is blake and ever story. the Passion between them is incredible.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melissa B · Rating 4 out of 5]

An age-gap romance story about a staunch bachelor and the new intern. It was a nice steamy read with likable characters and nicely paced.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[BusyM3 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun and entertaining read. The story will hold your attention, the characters are likeable and fit well together. Looking forward to read more in this series.

I am voluntarily leaving a review.