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Gamer Girls #6
For the Win
When you have nothing else to lose, you have everything to gain.
Rhaven grew up hiding behind the keys of a computer or the controller of a console. It was easier than trying to face the real world. Out there, she was a lie. Out there, people called her Ethan and assumed she was a man.
Because that was what her birth certificate said. Unfortunately, she could only be her real self online and at the gamer events she was so addicted to. Around her hometown, people just assumed she was a typical little gay man – not that they were ok with that either.
So it was safer to hide. Easier, too.
Then the man of her dreams decides to drop in for a casual visit, and she doesn't know what to do. Meeting with him means letting him see the version of herself that she's always hated. She could tell him no, but she really doesn't want to. After all, this guy is perfect.
He says he doesn't care, but everyone does.
He says he understands, but how can he?
He says he wants to fall in love, but those types of stories never feature people like her – until now.
The Gamer Girls series features strong women and the men who love them. Knowledge about gaming and/or gamer culture is not necessary to enjoy this story. Graphic language and situations that are suitable for a mature audience are included. FOR THE WIN is a standalone novel which moves forward a larger story.
TRIGGER WARNING: discussions of transgender issues, bullying, cyber harassment, violence, mental health issues, and more. This is a love story, but finding love isn't always easy.
Rhaven grew up hiding behind the keys of a computer or the controller of a console. It was easier than trying to face the real world. Out there, she was a lie. Out there, people called her Ethan and assumed she was a man.
Because that was what her birth certificate said. Unfortunately, she could only be her real self online and at the gamer events she was so addicted to. Around her hometown, people just assumed she was a typical little gay man – not that they were ok with that either.
So it was safer to hide. Easier, too.
Then the man of her dreams decides to drop in for a casual visit, and she doesn't know what to do. Meeting with him means letting him see the version of herself that she's always hated. She could tell him no, but she really doesn't want to. After all, this guy is perfect.
He says he doesn't care, but everyone does.
He says he understands, but how can he?
He says he wants to fall in love, but those types of stories never feature people like her – until now.
The Gamer Girls series features strong women and the men who love them. Knowledge about gaming and/or gamer culture is not necessary to enjoy this story. Graphic language and situations that are suitable for a mature audience are included. FOR THE WIN is a standalone novel which moves forward a larger story.
TRIGGER WARNING: discussions of transgender issues, bullying, cyber harassment, violence, mental health issues, and more. This is a love story, but finding love isn't always easy.
552 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2020
173 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
December 4, 2020
This book, no this entire series, has wormed its way into my heart and is there to stay. This book has opened my eyes to the bigger picture. It has enlightened me on numerous topics and subjects that I have only really heard about. And I am grateful for that. I can honestly say that these books have impacted my life for the better.
I personally have not experienced any of the themes that run throughout this series, but I am aware that they are all very much real and can happen to anyone. I cannot wait to read the final book in this series in a little over a week!! And knowing that we will see these characters again in a new series called Flawed just puts the cherry on the sundae!
I personally have not experienced any of the themes that run throughout this series, but I am aware that they are all very much real and can happen to anyone. I cannot wait to read the final book in this series in a little over a week!! And knowing that we will see these characters again in a new series called Flawed just puts the cherry on the sundae!
September 29, 2024
This book was just wow. I like Rhaven's story.
She is transgender, living in a small rural town where people have a very black and white view of the world and don't accept grey. And while the story starts out not really good for her, she also gets a lot of good moments during the bad time. But she is smart and sees how lucky she is.
I thought the Romance would go a different way than the other books, but sadly it didn't. This book had all emotions included: crying, laughing out loud, love, hate and so on. It was really long but so worth it.
I still curious, if we will see a cross over between the Gamer Girls and The Shades of trouble. There were little ones, because Knock and Agent Raige will make an appearence in Shades of Trouble. But I thought that one Shade of Trouble (side) character has his story in the Gamer Girls book. Let's see, one book to go!
I highly recommend this book and you don't need to be a Gamer to love it or relate to it.
Edit 2024:
I felt like rereading Gamer Girls. I really forgot, how long this books are but they are so worth it. I love this series. I had to stop here with only one book to go, but this month I picked so many long books and I need a break, read something different.
She is transgender, living in a small rural town where people have a very black and white view of the world and don't accept grey. And while the story starts out not really good for her, she also gets a lot of good moments during the bad time. But she is smart and sees how lucky she is.
I thought the Romance would go a different way than the other books, but sadly it didn't. This book had all emotions included: crying, laughing out loud, love, hate and so on. It was really long but so worth it.
I still curious, if we will see a cross over between the Gamer Girls and The Shades of trouble. There were little ones, because Knock and Agent Raige will make an appearence in Shades of Trouble. But I thought that one Shade of Trouble (side) character has his story in the Gamer Girls book. Let's see, one book to go!
I highly recommend this book and you don't need to be a Gamer to love it or relate to it.
Edit 2024:
I felt like rereading Gamer Girls. I really forgot, how long this books are but they are so worth it. I love this series. I had to stop here with only one book to go, but this month I picked so many long books and I need a break, read something different.
December 1, 2020
I'm not crying you are!
Wow! I'll admit I knew nothing about gaming and even less about the LGBTQ community, but I'm the type of person who really wants to learn and understand others even if I don't necessarily like what I find out about myself and the others. This book and the characters are so real and multifaceted that I can't say thank you enough to the authors for making me aware of some of my prejudices and allowing me the opportunity to see and deal with them. Rhaven's internal struggle with whether or not to reveal her secret to her family broke my heart as a mother who would die/kill for her children. Knowing the she has a community of live and support that loved her made me want that for ALL! Breaton and Psyc I fell in love with the love that they both showed Rhaven and letting her know that she was worthy of it. When a book can make you change or educate you about subjects that are uncomfortable but need to be discussed...it makes you understand just why reading is so important to your personal growth in this complexed and ofttimes cruel world. To Auryn and Kitty thank you, thank you for bringing these characters to life and for helping me lead a more informed one...be blessed.
Wow! I'll admit I knew nothing about gaming and even less about the LGBTQ community, but I'm the type of person who really wants to learn and understand others even if I don't necessarily like what I find out about myself and the others. This book and the characters are so real and multifaceted that I can't say thank you enough to the authors for making me aware of some of my prejudices and allowing me the opportunity to see and deal with them. Rhaven's internal struggle with whether or not to reveal her secret to her family broke my heart as a mother who would die/kill for her children. Knowing the she has a community of live and support that loved her made me want that for ALL! Breaton and Psyc I fell in love with the love that they both showed Rhaven and letting her know that she was worthy of it. When a book can make you change or educate you about subjects that are uncomfortable but need to be discussed...it makes you understand just why reading is so important to your personal growth in this complexed and ofttimes cruel world. To Auryn and Kitty thank you, thank you for bringing these characters to life and for helping me lead a more informed one...be blessed.
November 30, 2020
Love!
Pure and unadulterated! These books..my God...and I think this is my favorite by far. As a mom of a beautiful LGBTQP 16 year old young lady. The coming out story of Rhaven had me crying throughout this book...ugly , sad and lovely , happy tears. I wish all families reacted to their child coming out as beautifully as Rhaven's father and brother did. Unfortunately , in wearing my "free mom hugs" to pride events and hearing the heartbreaking stories of my daughters peers, I have realized that sadly this is nowhere near the case.
I don't understand it at all. How can your child's natural state cause a parent to turn on them. I don't get it! There is no reality in which I could love my children less!
Thank you for this book..this whole series! It a thing of beauty!
Pure and unadulterated! These books..my God...and I think this is my favorite by far. As a mom of a beautiful LGBTQP 16 year old young lady. The coming out story of Rhaven had me crying throughout this book...ugly , sad and lovely , happy tears. I wish all families reacted to their child coming out as beautifully as Rhaven's father and brother did. Unfortunately , in wearing my "free mom hugs" to pride events and hearing the heartbreaking stories of my daughters peers, I have realized that sadly this is nowhere near the case.
I don't understand it at all. How can your child's natural state cause a parent to turn on them. I don't get it! There is no reality in which I could love my children less!
Thank you for this book..this whole series! It a thing of beauty!
June 13, 2022
Yeah, that was me crying on my lunch break while finishing this book.
This was great. I was kind of hoping for something slightly different in the romance dept., but it is still good. I just got myself overhyped, especially with Knock talking to all the main characters about his polyam relationship.
This was great. I was kind of hoping for something slightly different in the romance dept., but it is still good. I just got myself overhyped, especially with Knock talking to all the main characters about his polyam relationship.
January 9, 2021
I loved this book
The header says it all. I did. I loved it. From the first page to the last I loved it, every paragraph and every conversation between the characters and every description of gaming action. It was awesome. What was even more awesome was the way the authors had very obviously seriously researched what is like to transition from male to female. They had spoken to people who knew what it would be like for Rhaven to come out, from the physical to the emotional. It was handled sympathetically with honesty and humour. I can’t profess to know what it’s like to transition but I do have friends who have questioned their gender identity and have been open and honest enough to discuss it with me and this book rings true to me.
I love Rhaven. Her character has always been interesting, sort of 'in' with the main characters but always on the periphery. In this book we dive completely into Rhaven’s life and it is a fantastic journey. It starts in a complete contrast to how she is seen in the other books, a darkly glamorous women who kicks butt in FPS games. We meet her working at the GasNGo in her uniform with her deadname 'Ethan' on her tag.
We meet her Dad and her brother who are loving and kind, but don’t really understand her and know her only as Ethan. We see small town America in all it’s glory, where everyone knows your name and your business and think they have the right to comment on your life choices.
We also see Braden decide to visit Rhaven, who has a massive crush on, because he’s only a couple of hours drive away for business reasons. His presence triggers a lot of things for Rhaven, both good and bad.
This book was enthralling as I got sucked into Rhaven’s world and saw the whole ‘main table’ group work together both in game, and out, to protect the vulnerable and stand up for equality.
I believe that the authors originally planned that this book would be the last in the series but Rhaven got away from them and lead them to have to write another book to finish it all off. I can only say that I so glad that they let Rhaven have her way because this was an excellent book, with drama, emotion, laughter, love and steaming hot sex. This entire series is a fantastic journey and I can’t wait for the next book, which I’m sure I’ll read on release day, like I did this one. But I also know I’ll be sad when it’s over because this journey has been epic!
The header says it all. I did. I loved it. From the first page to the last I loved it, every paragraph and every conversation between the characters and every description of gaming action. It was awesome. What was even more awesome was the way the authors had very obviously seriously researched what is like to transition from male to female. They had spoken to people who knew what it would be like for Rhaven to come out, from the physical to the emotional. It was handled sympathetically with honesty and humour. I can’t profess to know what it’s like to transition but I do have friends who have questioned their gender identity and have been open and honest enough to discuss it with me and this book rings true to me.
I love Rhaven. Her character has always been interesting, sort of 'in' with the main characters but always on the periphery. In this book we dive completely into Rhaven’s life and it is a fantastic journey. It starts in a complete contrast to how she is seen in the other books, a darkly glamorous women who kicks butt in FPS games. We meet her working at the GasNGo in her uniform with her deadname 'Ethan' on her tag.
We meet her Dad and her brother who are loving and kind, but don’t really understand her and know her only as Ethan. We see small town America in all it’s glory, where everyone knows your name and your business and think they have the right to comment on your life choices.
We also see Braden decide to visit Rhaven, who has a massive crush on, because he’s only a couple of hours drive away for business reasons. His presence triggers a lot of things for Rhaven, both good and bad.
This book was enthralling as I got sucked into Rhaven’s world and saw the whole ‘main table’ group work together both in game, and out, to protect the vulnerable and stand up for equality.
I believe that the authors originally planned that this book would be the last in the series but Rhaven got away from them and lead them to have to write another book to finish it all off. I can only say that I so glad that they let Rhaven have her way because this was an excellent book, with drama, emotion, laughter, love and steaming hot sex. This entire series is a fantastic journey and I can’t wait for the next book, which I’m sure I’ll read on release day, like I did this one. But I also know I’ll be sad when it’s over because this journey has been epic!
February 13, 2021
This was REALLY close to a 5 for me, but there were a few moments that were a little too repetitive for me on an emotional level. In particular, a lot of dialogue about not being good enough for each. While I do understand that this is a relevant issue for Rhaven and Braden and that they need to overcome this obstacle of low confidence, I just felt like as a reader I didn’t necessarily need to be the witness to multiple versions of that conversation. I imagine they also have that convo a lot off screen too.
The other thing that held it back for me is I didn’t feel like the Psyc storyline was resolved. I was hoping that he stuck around and it would end up being menage for this one since I don’t think he got a fair shake. It wasn’t like he was friend just looking for a ONS, he really had feeling for her and I was a little heart broken over his last line about how he knew he was making the biggest mistake of his life by walking away.
I liked everything else about this story. As with the others there is a lot of cheesy gamer dialog and behavior, but I’ve mentioned in earlier reviews that while this would be a little cringey in any other books, it totally works for these stories because it’s extremely realistic. This one is an emotional rollercoaster.
The other thing that held it back for me is I didn’t feel like the Psyc storyline was resolved. I was hoping that he stuck around and it would end up being menage for this one since I don’t think he got a fair shake. It wasn’t like he was friend just looking for a ONS, he really had feeling for her and I was a little heart broken over his last line about how he knew he was making the biggest mistake of his life by walking away.
I liked everything else about this story. As with the others there is a lot of cheesy gamer dialog and behavior, but I’ve mentioned in earlier reviews that while this would be a little cringey in any other books, it totally works for these stories because it’s extremely realistic. This one is an emotional rollercoaster.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2020
Amazing!
Absolutely loved Rhaven's story! To read about her courage, and learning she is worth it was so good. Loved everything with Braden and Rhaven coming together!
Absolutely loved Rhaven's story! To read about her courage, and learning she is worth it was so good. Loved everything with Braden and Rhaven coming together!
November 22, 2021
Loved this!
This might be the first romance book I've read that had a trans woman as the lead and I loved it. Rhaven's story brought a lot of trans issues to light for me in relationships and society in general.
In this gamer world where the terrorist faction declared war on women, Rhaven is a huge target, not only for being a woman, but also for being trans. It's an intense read, but also really moving especially to watch as Rhaven's friends and family rally around her when she's attacked by the Kings of Gaming. She transforms from being afraid to being a role model for anyone who has suffered from being bullied for being different. I love her.
This might be the first romance book I've read that had a trans woman as the lead and I loved it. Rhaven's story brought a lot of trans issues to light for me in relationships and society in general.
In this gamer world where the terrorist faction declared war on women, Rhaven is a huge target, not only for being a woman, but also for being trans. It's an intense read, but also really moving especially to watch as Rhaven's friends and family rally around her when she's attacked by the Kings of Gaming. She transforms from being afraid to being a role model for anyone who has suffered from being bullied for being different. I love her.
Want to read
February 5, 2021🎁 Gamer Girls Box Set - Books 4-7 is FREE on Amazon today (2/5/2021)! 🎁
September 20, 2021
The ONLY reason this is 3 stars instead of 4 is because of how the book dragged at the end. I'm not sure but this may have been the longest book in the series so far. If it wasn't, it sure felt like it.
First let me say that I adore Rhaven. I have been rooting for her since she was introduced. She deserves all of the GOOD. The introduction of a trans character was a happy surprise and I was thrilled to read her story. I was all up in my feels. From the bullshit she had to deal with, to her coming out to her family, to the backlash and treatment of her by society.
She is a Gamer Girl who rolled with all the adversity and came out on top.
When Braden was introduced in book one he was a dick. I'm sure we all hated him immediately after the first few interactions. However he totally redeemed himself with Dez and showed that he was so excepting, caring, and loyal. I am not the least bit surprised that he and Rhaven were on the path of an HEA. However the addition of Psyhc and his bond with Rhaven fucked with my emotions. I love that Psych is straight, that he has a connection and pull to Rhaven. I want them to have an HEA. Spoiler there is some poly love in this story but it was a bit misleading.
The KoG is starting to get hella annoying. I feel like I figured out who the leader was in the first book. I swear to glob if it is who I think it is, I'm going to be pissed af.
So for the dragging. I feel like there was a chapter or two of just filler. I understand that everything in this series serves a purpose. But at the same time I got bored. It's like so much was happening then all of a sudden we were just going through the motions. With that said, I was happy to catch up with the Flawed crew and to see how the business has grown. I believe if I'm following the time line correctly it's been 4-5 years since the release of Silk.
First let me say that I adore Rhaven. I have been rooting for her since she was introduced. She deserves all of the GOOD. The introduction of a trans character was a happy surprise and I was thrilled to read her story. I was all up in my feels. From the bullshit she had to deal with, to her coming out to her family, to the backlash and treatment of her by society.
She is a Gamer Girl who rolled with all the adversity and came out on top.
When Braden was introduced in book one he was a dick. I'm sure we all hated him immediately after the first few interactions. However he totally redeemed himself with Dez and showed that he was so excepting, caring, and loyal. I am not the least bit surprised that he and Rhaven were on the path of an HEA. However the addition of Psyhc and his bond with Rhaven fucked with my emotions. I love that Psych is straight, that he has a connection and pull to Rhaven. I want them to have an HEA. Spoiler there is some poly love in this story but it was a bit misleading.
The KoG is starting to get hella annoying. I feel like I figured out who the leader was in the first book. I swear to glob if it is who I think it is, I'm going to be pissed af.
So for the dragging. I feel like there was a chapter or two of just filler. I understand that everything in this series serves a purpose. But at the same time I got bored. It's like so much was happening then all of a sudden we were just going through the motions. With that said, I was happy to catch up with the Flawed crew and to see how the business has grown. I believe if I'm following the time line correctly it's been 4-5 years since the release of Silk.
February 12, 2021
Another hit
Another amazing book in this series. I’m so hooked and cannot wait for the final instalment. I’ve been inspired and comforted by these characters. These two authors have done an amazing job of speaking these people feel so life-like and genuine. They’re real and flawed characters and I think that’s part of what appeals to me. Keep up the amazing work!!!!
Another amazing book in this series. I’m so hooked and cannot wait for the final instalment. I’ve been inspired and comforted by these characters. These two authors have done an amazing job of speaking these people feel so life-like and genuine. They’re real and flawed characters and I think that’s part of what appeals to me. Keep up the amazing work!!!!
September 26, 2021
I didn't read the whole thing, because this book isn't really for me. I'm not trans, but I'm nonbinary, and this book just tries too hard, in a sort of "look at me, mommy, am I doing it right?" kind of way.
I like inclusive stuff, but I would've liked this better if it wasn't so on the nose, trying to tick all the boxes of trying to make the plot inclusive. And also downright patronising at times as if I, as the reader, don't know how to behave around people who are trans or don't prescribe to a certain gender. And that's why I feel this book isn't for me, at all. It's for cis women who could stand to learn a few things about inclusivity. The book is stuck up on gender, all the while having the romantic interest saying he didn't care about gender. Sorry, I'm just now realizing that that may probably be why I couldn't read it. I'd like to read a book with trans or nonbinary characters that just isn't that much about gender. It just is what it is, and that's the way it should be.
Also, all the gamer jargon bored me (and I'm a gamer, though honestly not as much as I used to be). My eyes just glazed over.
I like inclusive stuff, but I would've liked this better if it wasn't so on the nose, trying to tick all the boxes of trying to make the plot inclusive. And also downright patronising at times as if I, as the reader, don't know how to behave around people who are trans or don't prescribe to a certain gender. And that's why I feel this book isn't for me, at all. It's for cis women who could stand to learn a few things about inclusivity. The book is stuck up on gender, all the while having the romantic interest saying he didn't care about gender. Sorry, I'm just now realizing that that may probably be why I couldn't read it. I'd like to read a book with trans or nonbinary characters that just isn't that much about gender. It just is what it is, and that's the way it should be.
Also, all the gamer jargon bored me (and I'm a gamer, though honestly not as much as I used to be). My eyes just glazed over.
May 7, 2023
Tale of two stories -some spoilers
The first half is filled with so much whining. Repetitive convos about their insecurities. Of course IRL insecurities don’t go away after one convo but the same info was being said in multiple scenes.
Consistency with character storyline issues. She went from being a gas station attendant to thinking she could maybe do IT or maybe work at a hotel to all of a sudden being devastated her world was coming down because she didn’t get a contract and saying she lost everything even though she just won $50,000. She didn’t have a plan for a contract and then the world was over because she didn’t get it. Also, She does all this coding and never considers finding entry positions or courses for coding? So irrationally emotional. No consistent logical reasoning in her story.
Then it’s like a switch flips and she is confident and insecurities are gone and she is ready to be the hero and takes on the world. Where did any of that come from? The ending of the book was strong if you could believe in the quick turnaround in the character. This book definitely does a good job of building the anticipation for the final battle against KoG.
The first half is filled with so much whining. Repetitive convos about their insecurities. Of course IRL insecurities don’t go away after one convo but the same info was being said in multiple scenes.
Consistency with character storyline issues. She went from being a gas station attendant to thinking she could maybe do IT or maybe work at a hotel to all of a sudden being devastated her world was coming down because she didn’t get a contract and saying she lost everything even though she just won $50,000. She didn’t have a plan for a contract and then the world was over because she didn’t get it. Also, She does all this coding and never considers finding entry positions or courses for coding? So irrationally emotional. No consistent logical reasoning in her story.
Then it’s like a switch flips and she is confident and insecurities are gone and she is ready to be the hero and takes on the world. Where did any of that come from? The ending of the book was strong if you could believe in the quick turnaround in the character. This book definitely does a good job of building the anticipation for the final battle against KoG.
January 4, 2021
Awesome!!!
No way to adequately say how awesome this was. Try thinking Star Trek, Star Wars and Game of Thrones awesome! Add in N.Y.P.D. Special victims unit and computer games with totally real people/characters in a virtual and a " real" reality. This author doesn't do easy common subjects . I am sure this has long needed to be brought out in a way that clueless old folks (like me) and none gamers could understand and relate to let alone actually truely comprehend the enormity of this silent, hidden "under the rug" problems
Read these books start with Flawed abd follow through in sequence. See if you learn anything about computer games, types of sexual orientation, harrassment, bullying, physical abuse/attacks, and the handicap in manpower, funds, and yes expertise to handle this type of scenario the police and other legal protectors must wirk under/with.
P.S. best have a backlog of premade or T.V. dinners in the freezer. These stories DO NOT COME WITH A RELIABLE PAUSE BUTTON.😉
No way to adequately say how awesome this was. Try thinking Star Trek, Star Wars and Game of Thrones awesome! Add in N.Y.P.D. Special victims unit and computer games with totally real people/characters in a virtual and a " real" reality. This author doesn't do easy common subjects . I am sure this has long needed to be brought out in a way that clueless old folks (like me) and none gamers could understand and relate to let alone actually truely comprehend the enormity of this silent, hidden "under the rug" problems
Read these books start with Flawed abd follow through in sequence. See if you learn anything about computer games, types of sexual orientation, harrassment, bullying, physical abuse/attacks, and the handicap in manpower, funds, and yes expertise to handle this type of scenario the police and other legal protectors must wirk under/with.
P.S. best have a backlog of premade or T.V. dinners in the freezer. These stories DO NOT COME WITH A RELIABLE PAUSE BUTTON.😉
November 13, 2025
For The Win Read Gamer Girls
Such a brilliant series, it’s inspirational.
In this the penultimate book of the series we get a close up look at the gamer girl Rhaven and Braden one of the lead developers at Deviant Games, that’s the fictional company that created the computer games that are mentioned in the series. If that sounds intimidating there’s no need to worry, you don’t need any knowledge (in depth or otherwise) to be able to enjoy the series.
Rhaven is only ever truly relaxed and happy when she’s playing online or when she attends the PLG Tournaments and meets up with her friends. When she’s back home she has to live with the lie that her life currently is. Rhaven’s birth name was Ethan and Rhaven is transgender. A surprise call from Braden her long time crush leads Rhaven to get a taste of what her life could be like. She’s going on her first ever date.
This book gives an insight into the world of a transgender woman, the turmoil, pain, grief and daily challenges that are all driven by fear. Well worth reading, can’t recommend this highly enough.
Such a brilliant series, it’s inspirational.
In this the penultimate book of the series we get a close up look at the gamer girl Rhaven and Braden one of the lead developers at Deviant Games, that’s the fictional company that created the computer games that are mentioned in the series. If that sounds intimidating there’s no need to worry, you don’t need any knowledge (in depth or otherwise) to be able to enjoy the series.
Rhaven is only ever truly relaxed and happy when she’s playing online or when she attends the PLG Tournaments and meets up with her friends. When she’s back home she has to live with the lie that her life currently is. Rhaven’s birth name was Ethan and Rhaven is transgender. A surprise call from Braden her long time crush leads Rhaven to get a taste of what her life could be like. She’s going on her first ever date.
This book gives an insight into the world of a transgender woman, the turmoil, pain, grief and daily challenges that are all driven by fear. Well worth reading, can’t recommend this highly enough.
June 17, 2023
It is really nice to see Raven get her own book! This book does get the love triangle she is in resolved, and you also see how important friendships are in bonds.
Raven's world falls apart on her when the Kings of Gaming post an "ad" in her local paper wanting to know if anyone knows who she is. She lives in a small town in Montana and the news that she is trans does not go well. But her friends are there for her, and her love interests come through when she needs them.
Her story is rocky the whole way through, because of the hate from the Kings of Gaming. They just do not want her to be happy and be successful. She uses this to push the matter, and finds that there are others that needed to see a lady like her to live their truths.
Auryn and Kitty spent a lot of time researching and finding out how a person like Raven would feel about a lot of things. There are intimacy and sex scenes that are well done with body dysmorphia and help a cis person put themselves in those shoes.
Raven's world falls apart on her when the Kings of Gaming post an "ad" in her local paper wanting to know if anyone knows who she is. She lives in a small town in Montana and the news that she is trans does not go well. But her friends are there for her, and her love interests come through when she needs them.
Her story is rocky the whole way through, because of the hate from the Kings of Gaming. They just do not want her to be happy and be successful. She uses this to push the matter, and finds that there are others that needed to see a lady like her to live their truths.
Auryn and Kitty spent a lot of time researching and finding out how a person like Raven would feel about a lot of things. There are intimacy and sex scenes that are well done with body dysmorphia and help a cis person put themselves in those shoes.
November 30, 2020
No more single author books for either of you; this is the only way now!
Damn, these are good. I'm not sure either of you should be allowed to write your own individual books anymore. I mean, each of you, your books are good. Really good actually...but together, my God you two are amazing. These are not solely romances or gamer girl books. I feel like I've ruin the full gamut of human emotion in each of them. They give a glimpse into so many of the microcosms that make up our world today, and the ails and horror hidden in them, in a way that is illuminating, affirming, and so inspiring. It's all a little to real to be so much of an escape, while somehow giving me all this hope that things might turn out even half as well in the real world. I can't wait until the last one is out, then I can binge them all in one sitting. I'm so excited.
Damn, these are good. I'm not sure either of you should be allowed to write your own individual books anymore. I mean, each of you, your books are good. Really good actually...but together, my God you two are amazing. These are not solely romances or gamer girl books. I feel like I've ruin the full gamut of human emotion in each of them. They give a glimpse into so many of the microcosms that make up our world today, and the ails and horror hidden in them, in a way that is illuminating, affirming, and so inspiring. It's all a little to real to be so much of an escape, while somehow giving me all this hope that things might turn out even half as well in the real world. I can't wait until the last one is out, then I can binge them all in one sitting. I'm so excited.
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December 19, 2020Really like this series. I wasn't sure about this book before starting, just worried I'd have issues relating, but it was a really good book and I both liked and related to the main characters. It was really interesting to learn more about being transgender, and I think that will help me relate to others IRL (the best fiction definitely impacts and makes us reflect on our reality).
I had a few minor annoyances with the book, but it'd be a boring world if everyone did what you think they should, no? Definitely nothing that would stop me from recommending the book. One of the things I didn't like was left open at the end of the book, but don't worry, it's happily tied up in a ribbon in the next two books.
All in all, I would recommend this series. A lot of fun, a lot of girl power, a lot of diverse perspectives.
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited.
I had a few minor annoyances with the book, but it'd be a boring world if everyone did what you think they should, no? Definitely nothing that would stop me from recommending the book. One of the things I didn't like was left open at the end of the book, but don't worry, it's happily tied up in a ribbon in the next two books.
All in all, I would recommend this series. A lot of fun, a lot of girl power, a lot of diverse perspectives.
Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited.
December 8, 2021
Floored. I've never read a book with a first person trans gendered POV and I see now why I should've a long time ago. I had the appropriate definition in my brain but honestly I don't think I had fully wrapped my head around the concept. One of the things I liked best about this book was that the huge cast of characters fell all over the spectrum of understanding and acceptance. Most had some confusion about it. Even if it was just hey I want to be supportive, but I have no idea how. Hell even the character transitioning was still working on fully accepting herself as female.
It's depth like this that makes these books really stand out for me. Also the tension was really leveling up in this book and I legit wound up pulling an all nighter to finish reading it. And at 5:45am when I did, I immediately downloaded the next book!
It's depth like this that makes these books really stand out for me. Also the tension was really leveling up in this book and I legit wound up pulling an all nighter to finish reading it. And at 5:45am when I did, I immediately downloaded the next book!
December 1, 2020
Wow, just Wow!
Rhaven!!! You rock! You go girl! This was such a great book in the series. Rhaven being a transgender female, it was a heart breaking wild ride. I felt that it seemed too easy, which is always the fact when you are surrounded by people with money. I loved that she acknowledged that when things started heating up. I completely love this series and love that it is LGBTQ friendly. Our world needs more empathy and kindness for those who don't fit in the box. I love that Dez was part of the story line again. I love that girl, well... I love all of these strong gamer girls. I am looking forward to the final book. Although For The Win is a standalone novel, it is part of a bigger story line you don't want to miss. Full novel, no cliffhanger and a HEA.
Rhaven!!! You rock! You go girl! This was such a great book in the series. Rhaven being a transgender female, it was a heart breaking wild ride. I felt that it seemed too easy, which is always the fact when you are surrounded by people with money. I loved that she acknowledged that when things started heating up. I completely love this series and love that it is LGBTQ friendly. Our world needs more empathy and kindness for those who don't fit in the box. I love that Dez was part of the story line again. I love that girl, well... I love all of these strong gamer girls. I am looking forward to the final book. Although For The Win is a standalone novel, it is part of a bigger story line you don't want to miss. Full novel, no cliffhanger and a HEA.
December 9, 2020
Oh my gosh this is so good! This made me cry, mad, scared, sappy, fall in love multiple times, just all the feels. That scene when Psyc was leaving had me in tears, I’m crying just thinking about it. Like how could you do that to me and to him?! We need to find that man a love and he should get his own story. Pretty please?! That should entice anyone else to definitely read the series and to continue with the series.
If I could give this above five stars I totally would. The realism and action was off the charts. I just couldn’t get enough of this. I cannot wait for the next book! The suspense and guessing and just everything is killing me!! Auryn Hadley and Kitty you both rock! Well done on depicting such real life and honest emotions and journeys for Rhaven and Braden.
If I could give this above five stars I totally would. The realism and action was off the charts. I just couldn’t get enough of this. I cannot wait for the next book! The suspense and guessing and just everything is killing me!! Auryn Hadley and Kitty you both rock! Well done on depicting such real life and honest emotions and journeys for Rhaven and Braden.
December 16, 2020
Oohhhhh
Dang it Kitty and Auryn keep the hits coming. I was skeptical of reading this book simply because I have not been in a good place in life. But Auryn and Kitty have a way of taking you out of your real life, look away from your own problems, while still helping you get stronger. Books are my escape just like games are for these women that go through such a wide array of issues. I enjoyed Rhaven’s story from start to finish. I wasn’t sure if I would but as always these ladies came through with a banger. They hit on things that some authors tend to stray from. They empower women while also empowering the men in their lives that support them. Game Over is next but I’m not ready for it to end!!
Dang it Kitty and Auryn keep the hits coming. I was skeptical of reading this book simply because I have not been in a good place in life. But Auryn and Kitty have a way of taking you out of your real life, look away from your own problems, while still helping you get stronger. Books are my escape just like games are for these women that go through such a wide array of issues. I enjoyed Rhaven’s story from start to finish. I wasn’t sure if I would but as always these ladies came through with a banger. They hit on things that some authors tend to stray from. They empower women while also empowering the men in their lives that support them. Game Over is next but I’m not ready for it to end!!
January 17, 2021
Beautifully written
I don't actually tend to read LGBTQ books. I have nothing but respect and love for the lifestyle, it's just not my personal preference in books. But I'm obsessed with this series and wasn't willing to skip the storyline. And I'm immensely grateful that I did. I grew up in an area not too dissimilar to Rhaven's small town, and reading this made me realize just how brave my childhood LGBTQ friends were to stand loud and proud, and just how many more probably didn't have the support to be who they wanted to be. Kudos to the authors for not shying away from the difficult subjects, and for crafting believable characters who people facing their own trials can relate to. This is by far my favorite book in one of my all-time favorite series.
I don't actually tend to read LGBTQ books. I have nothing but respect and love for the lifestyle, it's just not my personal preference in books. But I'm obsessed with this series and wasn't willing to skip the storyline. And I'm immensely grateful that I did. I grew up in an area not too dissimilar to Rhaven's small town, and reading this made me realize just how brave my childhood LGBTQ friends were to stand loud and proud, and just how many more probably didn't have the support to be who they wanted to be. Kudos to the authors for not shying away from the difficult subjects, and for crafting believable characters who people facing their own trials can relate to. This is by far my favorite book in one of my all-time favorite series.
February 2, 2021
I loved that Rhaven got to be pampered and get everything she deserved. I haven’t read the rest of the series and I get the impression this book is somehow lighter but it still had a never ending focus on the abject horribleness of thousands of gamers which made it frustrating but sadly believable. I felt Rhaven was authentically written as a newly out trans girl, and it’s so rare to see a trans girl in romance so I truly cherished it. I do wish there could have been less focus on her transition though. While it wasn’t Braden’s book as much as Rhaven’s, I enjoyed seeming bun grow although this character arc felt less visible and I wish we had a little more time to see his growth. Overall, a great read with lots of suspense and flawed, believable characters. Oh and that one scene... yes!!
February 8, 2021
For the Win, book 5 of the Gamer Girls series, is an ebook I downloaded from Kindle Unlimited. This book may be one of my favorite books in the series. Not only are Rhaven, Braden, and Psyc nicely complex characters, the authors have done an awesome job (and plenty of research) to bring us a story that is deeply emotional and eye-opening for a cis woman like myself who doesn't know how to relate to a person in transition. The sensitivity to the issue, and the struggles to be who they need to be, were wonderfully illustrated so that I could empathize and better understand their point of view. Love is love, and it's beautiful how these authors have managed to combine so many lifestyle choices in the series. GG is one I'll reread over time.
May 7, 2023
A slow start (spoilers included)
I did debate skipping reading this book at around 25% - my main gripe was that I hated Rhaven's mental gymnastics of twisting everything that was said to fit her narrative. I understand it is a symptom of depression, having suffered it myself, but it felt repetitive and I read books to escape this, y'know?!
So I soldiered on. I felt for poor Psyc and how he didn't get his HEA. And nothing further was mentioned after the hotel room trashing - why not? I must have read a different book to everyone else because this was one of my least favourite (up there with #5/collateral damage)...and yet despite these negatives, I still deem it a 4/5...but only just.
I did debate skipping reading this book at around 25% - my main gripe was that I hated Rhaven's mental gymnastics of twisting everything that was said to fit her narrative. I understand it is a symptom of depression, having suffered it myself, but it felt repetitive and I read books to escape this, y'know?!
So I soldiered on. I felt for poor Psyc and how he didn't get his HEA. And nothing further was mentioned after the hotel room trashing - why not? I must have read a different book to everyone else because this was one of my least favourite (up there with #5/collateral damage)...and yet despite these negatives, I still deem it a 4/5...but only just.
December 13, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. As with the other books in this series, it really hit on some sensitive subjects that might be offensive to some. However, I thought it was amazing. The main character is a transgender woman, who fights discrimination, hate and ignorance and finds that she is loved by friends, family and the man of her dreams. It was a real tear jerker for me as my son is transgender and I have seen him struggle with these same issues. These problems are things that so many people face everyday and not just trans people and these books address that. These books are very courageous and I truly have loved them. Thank you, Auryn Hadley!
January 22, 2021
This particular story made me feel so emotional throughout. I've been waiting to hear more about Rhaven & this book did not disappoint!!
I've said this in some of the other Gamer Girls book reviews- these books are so much more than just girls who play video games. They're filled with hard subjects like inequality, racism, abuse, trauma, personal struggles & doubts, strong women, men who aren't threatened by strong women & the type of family that isn't blood related. Honestly, each book becomes my new favorite. I'm going to be so sad when it's all over but at the same time I can't wait to see how it ends. I'll treasure this series forever!! 💛
I've said this in some of the other Gamer Girls book reviews- these books are so much more than just girls who play video games. They're filled with hard subjects like inequality, racism, abuse, trauma, personal struggles & doubts, strong women, men who aren't threatened by strong women & the type of family that isn't blood related. Honestly, each book becomes my new favorite. I'm going to be so sad when it's all over but at the same time I can't wait to see how it ends. I'll treasure this series forever!! 💛
August 8, 2023
Good Read
Rhaven for the win!! Rhaven’s story brings to light something that I will never understand, why can’t people just live their own lives and and let others live theirs. I cheered when her father and brother gave her their support. And the way Braden loves her is amazing.
I love this series, this group of misfits, this group of survivors, most of all, I love how we’re shown the most imperfect perfection. All of these flawed characters actually show you how to be a good human. These characters are some of the best characters I've read in a while. I like how you get references, mentions from the previous books but not a complete recap. On to book seven.
Rhaven for the win!! Rhaven’s story brings to light something that I will never understand, why can’t people just live their own lives and and let others live theirs. I cheered when her father and brother gave her their support. And the way Braden loves her is amazing.
I love this series, this group of misfits, this group of survivors, most of all, I love how we’re shown the most imperfect perfection. All of these flawed characters actually show you how to be a good human. These characters are some of the best characters I've read in a while. I like how you get references, mentions from the previous books but not a complete recap. On to book seven.
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