Spark

Love & Rugby #1

by Susan Scott Shelley, Chantal Mer

Spending his fortieth birthday in a club filled with twenty-somethings and members of his brother’s rugby team isn’t Finlay Davidson’s idea of fun, but falling into the arms of a sexy stranger who looks as out of place as Finlay feels, entices him to stay. For a decade, he’s partnered with his siblings, focused on building a successful family business and ensuring the well-being of his employees. Romance hasn’t been a priority, but meeting the man, who moonlights as a bouncer and is one of his brother’s teammates, shifts his world and ignites his desire for more.

For the past year and a half, Mateo Rossi Ayala’s life has revolved around working two jobs, bouncing on weekends and doing home remodels during the week. His only respite is the weekly rugby games and practices with teammates who have become like family. Meeting Finlay, his rugby teammate’s brother, is a spark of light in a hectic life consumed by commitments and responsibilities, strong enough for Mateo to believe that the unattainable is possible.

The intensity of their immediate connection outweighs Finlay’s hesitation over dating someone who plays a dangerous sport, and makes Mateo determined to fit their relationship into his life without dropping any balls. When their worlds turn upside down, Finlay’s fears and Mateo’s worst nightmare collide. With their differences and doubts laid bare, can their burgeoning relationship survive the strain or will their bond be severed?

Genres: Sports, M M Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary, Sports Romance, LGBT, Amazon

269 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 11, 2022

About the author

USA TODAY bestselling author Susan Scott Shelley writes romance with heat and heart that celebrates love without limits. A city girl who likes being out in nature as often as possible, she has yet to meet a plant she hasn’t wanted to take home and she really wants a pet crow.
Learn more at https://www.susanscottshelley.com

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spark is book one in the Love & Rugby series by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer. This is a sexy, sweet MM romance that I’ve been wanting to read for a long time. The cover is gorgeous and is what first drew me in.



Let’s start with Finlay Davidson. He is the CEO and owns, along with his two younger siblings, a condom company. Fin’s younger brother is Cam whom we met in the prequel, Spiral. It’s Finlay’s fortieth birthday and he has been forced by his siblings, to celebrate at a club. He would much rather be spending the evening at home but he doesn’t want to disappoint his brother and sister. But, when he is on the way back to their table with his arms full and is almost toppled over, two strong arms grab him and save him from disaster. As soon as they touch, Finlay feels it, that connection that you only read about in romance books. Suddenly his night looks a lot better.



Mateo Rossi Ayala is exhausted which is pretty much the norm lately. Mateo’s day job is renovating homes. He loves it but it’s tough, physical work. He also works four nights a week as a bouncer at a large club. Caffeine is about the only thing that keeps Mateo going. Mateo also plays rugby in the local recreational league. They practice once a week and play their games every Saturday. Even though he’s running on fumes, rugby is his favorite part of the week. It’s time spent with men that is more like family than just friends. And it’s a chance to shut off his mind from all of his worries and just have fun. He’s at work in the club when he first spots the man about to topple over. As soon as he grabs him, he doesn’t want to let him go.



I love when the two main characters have that instant connection, when they just can’t look away from each other and that’s exactly what happened with these two. Their lives couldn’t be more different. And Mateo is so busy he worries that Finlay will lose interest in him since he has so little time. But then their world is turned upside down which brings them closer together.



This was such a sweet story. In the end, though, these are two strong willed men who have been on their own for a very long time. They are both stubborn and independent. And I love that they both have meddling families! Even though they came together so quickly and so easily, they still have plenty to work through. The question is, will what they built in their short time together be enough to get them through the tough times?

The next book in the series, book two, Smolder, is Fin’s brother, Cam’s book. Cam is a single father to his adorable little girl, Olive!

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[Antisocial Recluse · Rating 3 out of 5]

they had me at rugby…

but lost me in the torrid, purple haze of the narrative. A little rugby action but not much focus on it, except as a conflict. Very MF in disguise feeling to this one.

[Juniper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mateo (Teo) and Finlay have strong chemistry and it’s super fun watching them go from their first meeting to dating to something more. They fit together, but there are obstacles and there is baggage you can see waiting for them miles before it all comes crashing down. Waiting for that disaster wasn’t great, but there were plenty of lovely moments along the way, and I did like both characters as individuals—they’re kind and caring and more alike than either realizes. For the most part, I was fully along for the narrative journey. However, for me, there’s a bit of cognitive dissonance in the inevitable reconciliation after the inevitable 70% mark complication. Without spoilers, it felt like the story tries to drive home the point that relationships are about communication and respecting boundaries by having Teo and Finlay’s friends and loved ones preach that point to them while simultaneously running roughshod over those boundaries themselves. I think it’s supposed to be cute and loving…but it felt intrusive and controlling to me and I kind of hated it. Not enough to not love the resulting HEA, or to not enjoy the book overall, however. 4 out of 5 stars.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book*

[Crisana]

DNF 18%. Too many people around the couple and I am not in the mood to weed through all the secondary characters to get to some (maybe) better bits.

[S.M. Harshell · Rating 4 out of 5]

**I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Gay Romance Reviews.**

SPARK is the first book in the Love & Rugby series.

Mateo and Finley meet on Finley's fortieth birthday get together. Mateo is a bouncer at the club Finley and his brother, Cam and his rugby friends were at. Mateo also plays with rugby with the guys. When Cam sees the immediate attraction between his friend and his brother of course he tries setting them up.

Mateo is trying to dig out from the debt he has accumulated helping out his sister so he's working construction during the day and bounces at the club a few nights a week plus trying to renovate his house isn't leaving a lot of time for a relationship but for Finley he's willing to try.

Finley owns a condom company with his siblings and works hard but is willing to take any spare time Mateo is willing to give to him. Finley comes with his own baggage regarding the dangerous sport Mateo and his brother play.

Their chemistry is immediate but the first few chapters were had for me to get lost in. When I finally found my stride I thoroughly enjoyed the read but I did put it down quite a few times not connecting with the characters. I am glad I kept picking it back up though since I did enjoy it. I was hit with an emotional pull I wasn't expecting. I love when someone's (or in this case two someones) writing can bring tears to my eyes.

I can't wait to see what's next for Cam!!

[Betty Loves Books Galore · Rating 4 out of 5]

story of Finlay and Mateo

This is a best friend’s brother to more romance, featuring Finlay Davidson and Mateo Rossi Ayala, and is book one in the Love & Rugby series.

This is a pretty cute read. They go on dates are and pretty much in each other’s pockets. Mateo ends up getting injured playing rugby and Finlay looks after him but he oversteps when it comes to paying the bills and Mateo’s pride sees them breaking up. It was a low angst read up until that point. Meddling siblings see them reconciling.

Finlay’s granny sounds hilarious, I wish she was in the book more but I’ve got a feeling she appears throughout the series. There are lots of interesting side characters in this one, great avenues for future books.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM sports romance
Best friend’s brother
CEO x Contractor
Rich x poor
Rugby team
Meddling sibling
Dates
Spicy times & dirty talk
Hilarious granny
S*x toys
Accident on the field
Pride
Third act break up
HEA

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finley's brother Cam dragged him out to celebrate his 40th in a club. Finley didn't want to be there and it was not his crowd, but mostly his brother's. But one good thing came of going along with Cam's cajoling. He meets Mateo for the first time and they both are affected by it. Each of them is so busy and neither has made time for romance in their lives of late. They are each what the other needs in that their connection and chemistry is instant and despite the fact that they don't feel they have time they can't let each other get away. They realize that there is something special there. They just need to make time for each other and work through the individual issues that make each of them question if they can make a go of it. They are both good, hardworking, responsible guys who deserve something for themselves and it was good to see that by the end they grab onto one another and make it work.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finlay Davidson falls fast and had for Mateo Tossi Ayala, but it was never his plan to fall for a rugby player. He knows what can happen to rugby players, and how injury can be devastating and adversely affect the rest of their lives. Mateo, for his part, is afraid of being left alone, given his own history, and guards his heart, avoiding commitment at all costs. If he's free, he's safe, right? Wrong! Mateo is lost in the sweetness of Finlay's heart, and Finlay finds Mateo's pull undeniable. But Mateo's independent streak, and his refusal to let others help him the way he helps them causes big problems for Finlay, whose love language is taking care of those he loves. Mateo's anger at Finlay breaks them both, and it's wonderful to watch how their loved ones come together to help them climb over the hill that rises between them. I loved the banter, the camaraderie, the love between these men, and between them and their loved ones. This was an all-around sweet, feel-good story!

[Bkwrm24 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finlay and Mateo ❤️
3.5 Stars ⭐️

The struggle was real for these two sweethearts!! They had to navigate through obstacles, unpack major baggage and deal with some well meaning friends and siblings!!! From the moment these two set eye one each other it was on, you could feel the instant chemistry, and then some. Their relationship build was on point with some very sweet and tender moments as well as the perfect amount of heat. It wasn't easy for them but In the end these two get their HEA ❤️ I really liked this story, the characters were great, the side characters intriguing and engaging enough to want to know more about them...I have a wish list...ahem...Cam and Herc are on my top 2. I would most definitely recommend this series is off to a great start.

* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very enjoyable, relaxing read. It felt like an everyday tale of a friend falling in love when he least expected it.

I love how both Finlay and Mateo are driven, focused, and know what they want in life. I feel like this is a reflection of their ages. They weren't looking to meet someone but by chance they met. And with the help of family/friend they are brought together again. Finlay and Mateo make time for one another and put the effort into their relationship. That's what every relationship needs to grow and flourish. Even when trouble strikes they are there for each other. They might have different views and it causes friction; but at the end of the day they communicate.

Their story is real, beautiful, and heartwarming.

The supporting characters are wonderful and I can't wait to read some of their stories in the other books in this standalone series.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding a love for guys who play rugby recently so I was interested in this series surrounding a group of guys who play the game. Focus of the series is more on the romance between the MC's but the authors created a detailed group of friends and family who help the MC's find each other and overcome the issues that prevent them from finding a lasting love. First up is Fin and Mateo who have a strong attraction but are hampered by Fin's fear for Teo's possible injury due to a childhood incident. I loved the creation of a close family group who are actively involved in the MC's lives and give advice and support as Fin and Teo build a relationship. Excited to read about the other pairings that will be coming in future books in the series.

[Janice Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mateo is a hardworking man with a lot of responsibilities, but he manages to take time for rugby as way to de-stress on the weekends. Finlay is busy with his family business and not focusing on romance and ends up at his brother’s rugby game. The two meet and fall for each other, but they have to decide if they can overcome their reservations and make romance and each other as an important priority.

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the instant connection the MC’s had. They had great chemistry and were respectful of each other and their views. I enjoyed watching their connection grow into something really special. They were so sweet together and I loved watching them fall in love.

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Traci S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4⭐️
I liked the writing style in Spark, the authors do a really good job writing dialogue which sounds natural. The two main characters are also quite well developed, I liked that they were a bit older and their chemistry was both sweet and steamy. I loved the found family aspect of the plot and was happy to see this is a series as I am interested in seeing more of the rugby team. There is some drama as as neither Mateo nor Finlay are used to communicating in a relationship. An overall sweet read, I liked both of the MCs and the side characters were very engaging.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Tracy Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Mateo(Teo) and Finlay meet in a club where Teo has a second job as a bouncer. They have amazing chemistry and after a little nudge from Cam, who is Finlay’s brother and Teo’s friend and rugby teammate, they begin dating. Teo and Finlay both have issues. Finlay doesn’t want Teo to play rugby and Teo doesn’t want financial help from Finlay. There is a bit of angst as they work things out, but love wins and there is a sweet ending. This was a very quick read for me and I was invested in both mc’s. Spark was a great start and I am looking forward to the rest of the series.

[Ida Umphers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was in the mood for an instant connection romance and this one fit the bill perfectly. I also liked that our two main characters had some life experience and responsibilities. In fact, you could just feel how exhausted Mateo was trying to work two jobs to support his family and still playing rugby on the weekends as his only source of relaxation and fun. It also made sense that Finlay being older would understand the dangers of the sport and worry about Mateo. I totally bought the chemistry between these two and enjoyed watching them negotiate their relationship while dealing with real life and friends and family.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Work hard, play hard, love harder! Finley, rethinks his choice of spending his 40th in a club with his younger brother's rugby team. Mateo, is a hard working man. He balances two time consuming jobs and plays rugby on the weekends. They meet and have an immediate hot connection. They drag some heavy baggage while trying to balance their attraction. Can they have a relationship in spite of their differences? Reading of their struggle, their walking the tightrope, how deeply the feels entwine their hearts is absolutely delicious. Good story. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Malia Winger · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a series that shows promise! While celebrating his birthday in a club with his siblings , Finlay meets Mateo, a weekend bouncer and rugby team mate of his brother.. Even though there is initial attraction when Finlay finds out that Mateo plays rugby he steps back. However since Finlay's brother loves to matchmake the two men find themselves thrown together again. Finlay tries to deal with Mateo's love of playing rugby but they are tested when the worst happens and Mateo suffers an injury. This story is an excellent of what happens when two caretakers clash and have to work out their issues.

[YonnoMaus · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded. Honestly this was just meh. Nothing spectacular or unique, but not terrible either. The metaphors and similes were so weird sometimes. And Olive was such an unrealistic 6-year-old. Gran was… not cool or hip or whatever positive thing I was supposed to feel about her. The romance was super cheesy at times and the plot predictable. Honestly, the only reason I rounded up was because the sisters of both MCs gave it to them straight and were pretty spot on with how each of them acted inappropriately. That said, I don’t feel at all compelled to read the other books in the series. That might change, but for the time being this will be all from this series for me.

[T Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

The two main characters in this book are quite likable. The entire friend and family group all add charm to this story. The romance moves along quickly so naturally there are hiccups. The hiccups add some upheaval but like all good love stories the heroes patch things up and you’re enjoying their HeA by the close of the reading. These two struggle but their struggles only make you like them more. Enjoyable with the mild drama and a good time all around. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.

[Saskia Veldhuis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read with good chemistry between the MCs. There wasn't all that much playing rugby involved, but I'm not a sports fan so no issue for me. I'm surprised Mateo didn't die from the stresses he lived with. Finlay's trauma is well written and it's understandable that his reluctance to tell Mateo about it was to make the plot, but with all the emphasis on communicating it was a bit weird that they kept not communicating. It's good to have a story about two people both used to having the caretaker role, which clashes. I'm looking forward to the next book.

[DD · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet start to a series. I really enjoyed this first book and the characters have me excited for what’s to come. There’s a lot of great humor and banter, which is at the top of my favorite list. The stars of Spark are Mateo and Finlay, and their meeting prove Spark an apt title. They have immediate chemistry. The great start to their relationship is deterred by sheer stubbornness and lack of communication. Like a crazy amount of stubbornness. Men… Thank goodness they have great real and found families that have their backs and get them on the right track. I can’t wait for the rest of the rugby team to find love. And the covers of these books, whew wow, amazing.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Before I got into the story I knew this book would be easy to read, it was really well written and just had a nice flow. The story had 2 very sexy MC's who had big chemistry together and it didn't take too long for the steamy scenes to start. There is a slight angsty part which was definitely needed to create some tense narrative, so it wasn't all sweetness. You are rooting for both of them throughout. It was a really dreamy happy ending and I can't wait to read book 2.

[Readingbks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one in the Love & rugby series by Susan Scott Shelley and Chantal Mer! This is the first time that I've read books by these authors! I really enjoyed Finlay and Mateo's story and it was witty, sweet, romantic, and angsty! The characters were beautifully written and the story was complex and yet such a wonderful read! I read an advanced copy of this story and this is my unbiased review! I can't wait to read book two!

[kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Finley's brother Cam dragged him out to celebrate his 40th in a club he wasn't expecting to meet someone he connected with.
Mateo feels the same connection.
I enjoyed Finlay and Mateo's story and it was witty, sweet, romantic, and angsty!
You will be rooting for these two to get their HEA.
I'm looking forward to the next book.

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

These are new authors to me but ones I’ll definitely be reading more of!
What a lovely read! Just full of friendships, laughter, family, love and the cutest kid!
Mateo and Finlay are in need of each other and Fin’s brother Cam can see this so acts as matchmaker and does a wonderful job!
There is a little drama, lots of sweetness, plenty of hotness and a HEA, it’s a perfectly written book!

[Maria771 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Finlay and Mateo, it is the first book in Love & Rugby series. This is a insta connection story with just the right amount of heat to make it interesting. The characters are complex and perfect for each other. I loved the writing style. Can't wait to see what happens next. Definitely recommended.

I received this book as an Arc and I am happily reviewing it voluntarily.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 1 in a rugby m/m series and a first read for me by these authors and I loved it! Light on rugby, but filled with excellent characters, and just the right amount of steam. I loved Mateo and Finlay!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

He is spending his 40th year in a club filled with younger men and he felt so out of place. He will meet another man who seems as out of place as him. Could this be the start of something new? Can they get closer? How will it all go? See just how they get on

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Great Story. So much baggage. These two, Mateo and Finlay, grab you and each other and just bind you to them. You really want them to work out but there is so much, can they really see the other side?

[Megz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adorable rom-com romance

This was very adorable. It also felt like a book that was heavily inspired by rom-com tropes including the locking them in a room to sort things out trope. Very cute and I love their chemistry. It moves very very fast but it was cute.