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Landry Love #2
The Denial Game
We can be friends, coworkers. Nothing more.
I need a fresh start and a better vetting process for boyfriends.
I kick-start my new life in small-town Landry with a teaching job and a self-imposed dating ban. For the foreseeable future, my life is all about school supplies and celibacy.
But the devastatingly attractive high school football coach who makes me laugh and steals my dry erase markers is hard to ignore.
Taylor Shaw has the whole town under his spell, and he’s determined to win me over, too. Drooling over his chiseled chest as he runs practice drills and fantasizing about inappropriate trysts under the bleachers will only lead down a path of temptation—one I am determined to avoid.
So, I tell him we can be friends and coworkers. Nothing more.
Because the truth is, my family ruins every relationship I ever have, and I won’t risk subjecting Taylor to their underhanded manipulations.
But "just friends” is harder than it sounds.
And celibacy might be downright impossible.
• • • • • • •
The Denial Game is a steamy, laugh out loud, friends to lovers, workplace, secret relationship, small-town, standalone romantic comedy.
I need a fresh start and a better vetting process for boyfriends.
I kick-start my new life in small-town Landry with a teaching job and a self-imposed dating ban. For the foreseeable future, my life is all about school supplies and celibacy.
But the devastatingly attractive high school football coach who makes me laugh and steals my dry erase markers is hard to ignore.
Taylor Shaw has the whole town under his spell, and he’s determined to win me over, too. Drooling over his chiseled chest as he runs practice drills and fantasizing about inappropriate trysts under the bleachers will only lead down a path of temptation—one I am determined to avoid.
So, I tell him we can be friends and coworkers. Nothing more.
Because the truth is, my family ruins every relationship I ever have, and I won’t risk subjecting Taylor to their underhanded manipulations.
But "just friends” is harder than it sounds.
And celibacy might be downright impossible.
• • • • • • •
The Denial Game is a steamy, laugh out loud, friends to lovers, workplace, secret relationship, small-town, standalone romantic comedy.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2021
81 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Amy Alves
9 books307 followersFollow her: https://amyalvesbooks.com/links
Amy is an avid reader of romance, fantasy, and science fiction. Fine, mostly romance, but she sprinkles in other genres now and then.
She began writing a couple of years ago and it’s been a journey she didn’t know she was meant to take. Now she writes the stories she craves and the characters she hopes are real to someone, somewhere.
Amy is an avid reader of romance, fantasy, and science fiction. Fine, mostly romance, but she sprinkles in other genres now and then.
She began writing a couple of years ago and it’s been a journey she didn’t know she was meant to take. Now she writes the stories she craves and the characters she hopes are real to someone, somewhere.
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July 28, 2021
RATING 4.5 STARS
The Denial Game is book two in the Landry Love series by Amy Alves. I fell madly in love with the first book in this series, The Experiment, and also with this small little town called Landry. In book one, we met Emma’s best friend, Lauren, and Jess’s best friend, Taylor. We know something was brewing so now is your chance to find out just what.
Lauren Spengler is the oldest child of the very well to do Spengler Family in San Francisco. Her grandfather is the owner of the multi million dollar telecommunications company, SpenTel. Lauren never quite fit into the niche her parents wanted for her. She was too stubborn, too independent. But she was close with her grandpa. Lauren’s passion was teaching. Not marrying someone her family deemed suitable, and hosting charities and cocktail parties. So she struck out on her own, only to have her father repeatedly meddle in her life. In an effort to bridge the gap with her family, she began to date Andrew, a man working his way up in the company who was close with her father. Until she realized this, too was just another ploy to make her compliant. So Lauren moved to the tiny town of Landry and got a job teaching English at Landry High. It’s there she met a fellow English teacher and the high school football coach. She was instantly smitten. Too bad she’s on a man hiatus. No swooning is allowed. Friends only. She can do it, right?!
Taylor Shaw loves his life in Landry. He too has a past he tries to rise up from. He devotes his life to teaching and preparing kids for their futures, in the hopes they would be better prepared than he was. For a decade, Taylor has done this, never once feeling any attraction to a woman that might be worth exploring. Until the new English teacher came to town. She was quirky, intelligent, gorgeous, sexy, and filled his thoughts. Only, she friend zoned him. But he’s nothing if not persistent. He’ll wear her down.
And so it begins. These two were adorable together. They flirted. They teased. And they did become friends. They got to know each other. But, Lauren was determined to keep things platonic. She is more than aware of what her father could do to Taylor or to the town. She’s not willing to risk it. Not yet anyway.
I enjoyed this book so much. It begins before the timeline of book one so we get Taylor and Lauren’s history from when she first came to Landry. I loved the way they were together but it was also heartbreaking what they’d both been through and what Lauren was willing to give up just to keep others safe from her father.
The next book in the series, book three, is The Forever Plan, and is Evan, the Broody Bartender’s book. I can’t wait to jump in and revisit all of my favorite Landry residents.
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...
The Denial Game is book two in the Landry Love series by Amy Alves. I fell madly in love with the first book in this series, The Experiment, and also with this small little town called Landry. In book one, we met Emma’s best friend, Lauren, and Jess’s best friend, Taylor. We know something was brewing so now is your chance to find out just what.
Lauren Spengler is the oldest child of the very well to do Spengler Family in San Francisco. Her grandfather is the owner of the multi million dollar telecommunications company, SpenTel. Lauren never quite fit into the niche her parents wanted for her. She was too stubborn, too independent. But she was close with her grandpa. Lauren’s passion was teaching. Not marrying someone her family deemed suitable, and hosting charities and cocktail parties. So she struck out on her own, only to have her father repeatedly meddle in her life. In an effort to bridge the gap with her family, she began to date Andrew, a man working his way up in the company who was close with her father. Until she realized this, too was just another ploy to make her compliant. So Lauren moved to the tiny town of Landry and got a job teaching English at Landry High. It’s there she met a fellow English teacher and the high school football coach. She was instantly smitten. Too bad she’s on a man hiatus. No swooning is allowed. Friends only. She can do it, right?!
Taylor Shaw loves his life in Landry. He too has a past he tries to rise up from. He devotes his life to teaching and preparing kids for their futures, in the hopes they would be better prepared than he was. For a decade, Taylor has done this, never once feeling any attraction to a woman that might be worth exploring. Until the new English teacher came to town. She was quirky, intelligent, gorgeous, sexy, and filled his thoughts. Only, she friend zoned him. But he’s nothing if not persistent. He’ll wear her down.
And so it begins. These two were adorable together. They flirted. They teased. And they did become friends. They got to know each other. But, Lauren was determined to keep things platonic. She is more than aware of what her father could do to Taylor or to the town. She’s not willing to risk it. Not yet anyway.
I enjoyed this book so much. It begins before the timeline of book one so we get Taylor and Lauren’s history from when she first came to Landry. I loved the way they were together but it was also heartbreaking what they’d both been through and what Lauren was willing to give up just to keep others safe from her father.
The next book in the series, book three, is The Forever Plan, and is Evan, the Broody Bartender’s book. I can’t wait to jump in and revisit all of my favorite Landry residents.
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...
April 23, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
I recieved a ARC copy of The Denial Game and this is my honest review!
LAUREN= BADA$$ WOMAN!!
I absolutely loved The Denial Game. Everything about this book was so well written.
This book hooks you in and doesn’t let you go until you know how Lauren & Taylor get their HEA.
The chemistry and Banter between them is everything.
I loved loved loved Taylors mom and the events she had played in this book.
Even tho Lauren is a powerhouse of a woman, i wanted to shake her so many times.
Taylor just made me fall in love with him.
I couldn’t imagine Lauren with anyone but Taylor and vice versa. These two together is amazing!
I’m so thankful i was given the opportunity to read this book.
I love the town of Landry and all of it’s small town craziness!!
I was so excited to learn how they got their HEA.Amy Alves killed it and I can’t wait for the next book.
🔥🔥🔥
I recieved a ARC copy of The Denial Game and this is my honest review!
LAUREN= BADA$$ WOMAN!!
I absolutely loved The Denial Game. Everything about this book was so well written.
This book hooks you in and doesn’t let you go until you know how Lauren & Taylor get their HEA.
The chemistry and Banter between them is everything.
I loved loved loved Taylors mom and the events she had played in this book.
Even tho Lauren is a powerhouse of a woman, i wanted to shake her so many times.
Taylor just made me fall in love with him.
I couldn’t imagine Lauren with anyone but Taylor and vice versa. These two together is amazing!
I’m so thankful i was given the opportunity to read this book.
I love the town of Landry and all of it’s small town craziness!!
I was so excited to learn how they got their HEA.Amy Alves killed it and I can’t wait for the next book.
September 9, 2021
Such a good book.
The second in the Landry series focusing on Lauren and Taylor.
Lauren is such a feisty, headstrong female character who goes after what she wants.
Taylor is such a hot, caring man who likes to help everyone.
Meeting each other through work the attraction is immediate, their past is a constant holding them both back.
The slow burn gave me anxiety (in a good way)
The plot was so well written and I loved the twists and secrets that came out.
A beautiful HEA which was well deserved, I can't wait for book 3.
The second in the Landry series focusing on Lauren and Taylor.
Lauren is such a feisty, headstrong female character who goes after what she wants.
Taylor is such a hot, caring man who likes to help everyone.
Meeting each other through work the attraction is immediate, their past is a constant holding them both back.
The slow burn gave me anxiety (in a good way)
The plot was so well written and I loved the twists and secrets that came out.
A beautiful HEA which was well deserved, I can't wait for book 3.
April 28, 2021
This book is part two of Amy’s Landry Love series. This small town, friends to lovers romance has steam, slow burn, laugh out loud moments and swoon worthy, passion scenes.
Lauren is the tiny but mighty new teacher in town who is full of sass and has a dramatic and brutal family background that has her on a dating hiatus.
Taylor is the hunky, large and in charge football coach/teacher with a broken dream of making it to the NFL and with deep wounds and regrets from a prior relationship.
Their careers keep them in extremely close proximity which allows all the opportunities to fuel their heated desires for one another. Each day they broke each other down a little bit more. At times I was so frustrated with them, then two minutes later my heart was squeezing with happiness for them.
Amy created two perfectly flawed characters that brought out the absolute worst and best in one another. Their story was unique and at times strangely unbelievable, but then the next scene everything fell into place and I was nodding along as it all made sense.
Favorites from book one of the series make their appearance and newish characters for what’s to come in the series were more present. I am very excited for book three to come this summer.
“The urge to jump him and ask him to put a baby in me is strong. Well, fuck. That went from sweet to carnal quickly.”
** I was provided a complimentary advance copy of this novel. This is a voluntary review including my honest opinion. No compensation was provided for this review **
Lauren is the tiny but mighty new teacher in town who is full of sass and has a dramatic and brutal family background that has her on a dating hiatus.
Taylor is the hunky, large and in charge football coach/teacher with a broken dream of making it to the NFL and with deep wounds and regrets from a prior relationship.
Their careers keep them in extremely close proximity which allows all the opportunities to fuel their heated desires for one another. Each day they broke each other down a little bit more. At times I was so frustrated with them, then two minutes later my heart was squeezing with happiness for them.
Amy created two perfectly flawed characters that brought out the absolute worst and best in one another. Their story was unique and at times strangely unbelievable, but then the next scene everything fell into place and I was nodding along as it all made sense.
Favorites from book one of the series make their appearance and newish characters for what’s to come in the series were more present. I am very excited for book three to come this summer.
“The urge to jump him and ask him to put a baby in me is strong. Well, fuck. That went from sweet to carnal quickly.”
** I was provided a complimentary advance copy of this novel. This is a voluntary review including my honest opinion. No compensation was provided for this review **
April 4, 2021
What a beautifully woven small town romance that melted my heart. This story brought out all of the feels, I found myself laughing, screaming and crying while reading. Just reading the prologue I knew this was a book that I would't be able to put down and I was right. Lauren's character is strong and fierce with a horrible family she must push past to get the future she deserves. Taylor has his own relationship history and is hesitant to start a relationship while Lauren is hesitant based on her family drama. The chemistry between these two was wonderful, but I truly appreciated their friendship just as much if not more. Their banter and back and forth made me smile every time. There are twists and turns that I didn't see coming towards the end that made this such a unique read. I also adored the small town of Landry and the secondary characters that will be great additions to the series.
April 9, 2021
I can’t begin to tell you how wonderful this book is. I love Lauren so much, she is strong, independent, witty, and oh so sassy. She has her share of family drama but somehow still manages to be a kind loving person. Taylor is an ex football star who every girl fantasizes about. However, it isn’t enough that he is sexy, he is also the town Boy Scout and all around amazing romantic guy. The slow burn at the beginning had me screaming in frustration but was totally worth the wait to get to the very steamy scenes between Lauren and Taylor. I also love Landry, the town, with all it’s nosy yet amazing people. This book has a little of everything, from romance, sarcasm, family drama, intrigue and the wonderful HEA we all hope for! I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a strong, smart mouthed heroine and a sexy, romantic hero. I can’t wait for the next book about the inhabitants of Landry.
May 29, 2021
After reading The Experiment, I was definitely eager to get some back story and find out more about the relationship between Lauren and Taylor.
Taylor is not used to being friend zoned, but that’s just what Lauren does. Relegated to just friends and coworkers but with a spark that refuses to be extinguished, along with Taylor hoping Lauren will want to end her “man-hiatus”...with him, their slow burn was something else!
The pranks, teasing and flirting were highly entertaining. This is such a fun and witty read that made me giggle and smile throughout.
A must read, sweet, steamy, feel good romance!
Taylor is not used to being friend zoned, but that’s just what Lauren does. Relegated to just friends and coworkers but with a spark that refuses to be extinguished, along with Taylor hoping Lauren will want to end her “man-hiatus”...with him, their slow burn was something else!
The pranks, teasing and flirting were highly entertaining. This is such a fun and witty read that made me giggle and smile throughout.
A must read, sweet, steamy, feel good romance!
April 12, 2021
A friends to lovers slow burn romance between two teachers; one from a wealthy family and the other an ex NFL prospect.
Lauren has recently left the cushiony lifestyle her parents had forced her to live. Her family owns and mostly runs a big tech company. Lauren doesn’t want any part of the galas and banquets if it means she can be herself. Following her passion of teaching, she lands in Landry high for a teaching position.
Taylor was raised in Landry and only left for the football scholarship. Tragedy strikes and keeps him from an NFL career. In efforts to put his life back together and in good use, he moves back home to teach. Taylor becomes fast friends with Lauren when she moves into the classroom next door. That friendship starts to develop into more, but outside forces are determined to break them apart.
The is the second book in the Landry Love series, but it can be read as a standalone. The book was told from Lauren and Taylor’s POV. I felt the immediate attraction between the two of them. I loved their pranks with each other! Lauren’s family drama was really interesting. Lots of schemes and surprises kept me questioning what the ulterior motives were. I thought some scenes could have been condensed. Some of the same ideas or conversations were repeated. I really liked the last chapters of the book. Loved all the little things Lauren did to win back Taylor and show him how much she cared. It had the perfect happy ending!
Lauren has recently left the cushiony lifestyle her parents had forced her to live. Her family owns and mostly runs a big tech company. Lauren doesn’t want any part of the galas and banquets if it means she can be herself. Following her passion of teaching, she lands in Landry high for a teaching position.
Taylor was raised in Landry and only left for the football scholarship. Tragedy strikes and keeps him from an NFL career. In efforts to put his life back together and in good use, he moves back home to teach. Taylor becomes fast friends with Lauren when she moves into the classroom next door. That friendship starts to develop into more, but outside forces are determined to break them apart.
The is the second book in the Landry Love series, but it can be read as a standalone. The book was told from Lauren and Taylor’s POV. I felt the immediate attraction between the two of them. I loved their pranks with each other! Lauren’s family drama was really interesting. Lots of schemes and surprises kept me questioning what the ulterior motives were. I thought some scenes could have been condensed. Some of the same ideas or conversations were repeated. I really liked the last chapters of the book. Loved all the little things Lauren did to win back Taylor and show him how much she cared. It had the perfect happy ending!
April 23, 2021
The Denial Game is book 2 in the Landry Love Series and can be read as a standalone, but is best read following the first book. This is a small-town, sweet, workplace romance featuring Lauren and Taylor. Lauren was born into a wealthy family and was set to take over the family business at the insistence of her family. Lauren is feisty, independent, determined, and does not want that life. She instead leaves it behind to settle in Landry where she meets her extremely handsome coworker Taylor. Taylor is the sexy, previously NFL hopeful turned high school football coach who has hesitations of his own, but has a big heart.
The chemistry between these two was sizzling and they fit together so well. Both are struggling with things from their past causing them to deny the intense attraction between them. The slow burn between these two will have you anxious to see the moment Lauren and Taylor reach their HEA. I loved seeing their relationship as it progressed from coworkers to friends, and eventually to lovers. I absolutely loved this book, it was beautifully written, emotional, I fell in love with the characters and the town of Landry! I loved the unexpected twists and turns and cannot wait to read more by Amy Alves!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The chemistry between these two was sizzling and they fit together so well. Both are struggling with things from their past causing them to deny the intense attraction between them. The slow burn between these two will have you anxious to see the moment Lauren and Taylor reach their HEA. I loved seeing their relationship as it progressed from coworkers to friends, and eventually to lovers. I absolutely loved this book, it was beautifully written, emotional, I fell in love with the characters and the town of Landry! I loved the unexpected twists and turns and cannot wait to read more by Amy Alves!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 5, 2021
This was the cutest small town romance from @amyalves.author. Lauren is trying to run away from her manipulative family that wants to turn her into a docile wife, and in the process she discovers small town life—and Taylor. The two become fast friends and it's clear that something is growing between them. But when Lauren's family baggage threatens their barely-started relationship, she has to take matters into her own hands.
The banter between Chicken and Bandit (otherwise known as Lauren and Taylor) was super cute; I couldn't wait for the two of them to finally get together. Be warned that this is a slow burn romance—there were several instances where I wanted to throw the book at Lauren to just stop fighting her feelings and kiss the hot guy already. But the HEA is worth it!
The banter between Chicken and Bandit (otherwise known as Lauren and Taylor) was super cute; I couldn't wait for the two of them to finally get together. Be warned that this is a slow burn romance—there were several instances where I wanted to throw the book at Lauren to just stop fighting her feelings and kiss the hot guy already. But the HEA is worth it!
April 23, 2021
This was such a wonderful story. We met Lauren and Taylor in book one of this series, and while this book can be read as a stand-alone, I definitely recommend reading in order. This was such a great friends to lovers romance. There was some drama, I definitely cried, but overall it was a heartwarming and sometimes steamy story. Lauren was relatable and Taylor was so swoony. Now I am counting down till book three comes out!
April 10, 2021
A solid shiny 4.5 stars for book #2 in the Landry Love series!
I only took off half a star purely because this book didn't make me feel quite as deeply as book #1.
But I still loved it!
Lauren is the kind of heroine that I absolutely love. She has baggage and is a little bit flawed, but is also tenacious, compassionate, confident (when not faced with potential serial killers), witty, sarcastic, and full of sass!
Taylor. Sweet, sweet Taylor! He is definitely a bandit because he completely stole my heart and I never want it back 🥰❤🥰
He's a meddler. A mr fix it. He wants to just help everyone and fix things for everyone, so when he can't do that for Lauren it's so hard for him.
And my god, another slooooooow burn! Almost killed me yet again!! But totally worth it.
Chicken & Bandit are HOT 🥵🥵🔥🔥
I'm moving to Landry.
Roll on Landry Love #3
I only took off half a star purely because this book didn't make me feel quite as deeply as book #1.
But I still loved it!
Lauren is the kind of heroine that I absolutely love. She has baggage and is a little bit flawed, but is also tenacious, compassionate, confident (when not faced with potential serial killers), witty, sarcastic, and full of sass!
Taylor. Sweet, sweet Taylor! He is definitely a bandit because he completely stole my heart and I never want it back 🥰❤🥰
He's a meddler. A mr fix it. He wants to just help everyone and fix things for everyone, so when he can't do that for Lauren it's so hard for him.
And my god, another slooooooow burn! Almost killed me yet again!! But totally worth it.
Chicken & Bandit are HOT 🥵🥵🔥🔥
I'm moving to Landry.
Roll on Landry Love #3
April 22, 2021
I LOVED the next entry in the Landry Series. This book is seriously hot.
Lauren is a complete badass who is self-possessed, confident, and just a little bit savage. Taylor is a big cinnamon roll who's appetite for love is almost as big as his sweet tooth.
The author TORTURES this couple, putting them through the ringer to earn their HEA - and I loved every minute. The town of Landry is charming and a key part of the story evolution.
I want more!!!
Lauren is a complete badass who is self-possessed, confident, and just a little bit savage. Taylor is a big cinnamon roll who's appetite for love is almost as big as his sweet tooth.
The author TORTURES this couple, putting them through the ringer to earn their HEA - and I loved every minute. The town of Landry is charming and a key part of the story evolution.
I want more!!!
September 24, 2021
This is the story of Lauren & Taylor from The Experiment, and I couldn't be glad enough that finally they have their own story.
A heartfelt romance between Lauren, who wants nothing to do with her parents tech company & follows her teaching passion which leads her to Landry High and Taylor, born & bought up in Landry, who only left the town for a football scholarship & is hopeful of an NFL career.
I love small town romances. The charm, the proximity, the closeness, all of it has a different vibe to the story.
Lauren is a rebel. She stands for what she believes in. Her family background story gave a lot of clarity about why she ended up in Landry.
Taylor, a sexy bearded football coach, will reside in your heart instantly.
The
The chemistry between these is two is fire, whether is comes to prank wars, sarcastic comebacks or the actual steam. I loved the cute nicknames & the inside jokes they had going on.
After tons of family drama & angst, their bond is unbreakable.
I truly enjoyed it. Thank you so much for the arc, @amyalves.author .
Comes out on 22nd Arpil, get your copies now.
A heartfelt romance between Lauren, who wants nothing to do with her parents tech company & follows her teaching passion which leads her to Landry High and Taylor, born & bought up in Landry, who only left the town for a football scholarship & is hopeful of an NFL career.
I love small town romances. The charm, the proximity, the closeness, all of it has a different vibe to the story.
Lauren is a rebel. She stands for what she believes in. Her family background story gave a lot of clarity about why she ended up in Landry.
Taylor, a sexy bearded football coach, will reside in your heart instantly.
The
The chemistry between these is two is fire, whether is comes to prank wars, sarcastic comebacks or the actual steam. I loved the cute nicknames & the inside jokes they had going on.
After tons of family drama & angst, their bond is unbreakable.
I truly enjoyed it. Thank you so much for the arc, @amyalves.author .
Comes out on 22nd Arpil, get your copies now.
August 22, 2021
Book two of this series, The Denial Game, overlaps in the same time period as the Experiment, book one in the Landry Love series, and so we get to see what happens between Taylor Shaw, a high school teacher and football coach, and Lauren Spengler.
I just loved Lauren’s strength and passion to teach, and also her self-worth and ability to reflect honestly on her toxic relationship with her family. It was very painful for her, but I admire her so much for being true to herself, and walking away from a family fortune and becoming what the family expected. She still participated on the board and several projects for this multi-media conglomerate, but it was on her terms.
I just loved how at ease she was in her own skin, how down to earth, and how she uprooted her life to start a new one in the same town as her bestie, Emma, who fell in love with Jess, the guy next door, who happens to be friends with Taylor. This is my opinion could easily be read first and then you can dive into the Experiment, book one, because you will just love this small town and want to read them all.
I just love, love, love Amy’s writing and the witty, flirty banter between Lauren and Taylor. Love how he was smitten from day one, and all the clever ways he came up with just to be near her. I laughed out loud over and over, and loved how they started out as friends then became more.
Both have emotional baggage and this book became quite angsty at times. She eventually confided in him of her family’s control, and while I admired her independence and how she tried to protect him, he never really knew the extent of their toxicity until she had to make the greatest sacrifice of all. Just wish they could have recorded her dad’s conversations and exposed him earlier, but good wins out over evil every time, and our girl got him good in the end!
Lauren and Taylor were truly two kindred spirits who got each other and loved each other deeply. I loved all their pranks, and how devoted they were to educating our youth. Our world needs good teachers like them. Love how Taylor came to terms with a past horrific experience and learned how to forgive him self, move on, and count his blessings. Both Lauren and Taylor was so deserving of love and I routed for them the entire time.
I love all of the interconnected characters in this town and how they bring it to life, and I’m looking forward to more love connections in this series. Hoping Jess’s doctor brother, Garrett finds love too!
I just loved Lauren’s strength and passion to teach, and also her self-worth and ability to reflect honestly on her toxic relationship with her family. It was very painful for her, but I admire her so much for being true to herself, and walking away from a family fortune and becoming what the family expected. She still participated on the board and several projects for this multi-media conglomerate, but it was on her terms.
I just loved how at ease she was in her own skin, how down to earth, and how she uprooted her life to start a new one in the same town as her bestie, Emma, who fell in love with Jess, the guy next door, who happens to be friends with Taylor. This is my opinion could easily be read first and then you can dive into the Experiment, book one, because you will just love this small town and want to read them all.
I just love, love, love Amy’s writing and the witty, flirty banter between Lauren and Taylor. Love how he was smitten from day one, and all the clever ways he came up with just to be near her. I laughed out loud over and over, and loved how they started out as friends then became more.
Both have emotional baggage and this book became quite angsty at times. She eventually confided in him of her family’s control, and while I admired her independence and how she tried to protect him, he never really knew the extent of their toxicity until she had to make the greatest sacrifice of all. Just wish they could have recorded her dad’s conversations and exposed him earlier, but good wins out over evil every time, and our girl got him good in the end!
Lauren and Taylor were truly two kindred spirits who got each other and loved each other deeply. I loved all their pranks, and how devoted they were to educating our youth. Our world needs good teachers like them. Love how Taylor came to terms with a past horrific experience and learned how to forgive him self, move on, and count his blessings. Both Lauren and Taylor was so deserving of love and I routed for them the entire time.
I love all of the interconnected characters in this town and how they bring it to life, and I’m looking forward to more love connections in this series. Hoping Jess’s doctor brother, Garrett finds love too!
May 13, 2021
So. The first half of book is great. Lauren and Taylor are cute, have great chemistry, and a whole cast of amusing side characters. All the things I loved in the Experiment(book 1). It runs in the same timeline, which I was eh about(because it limited the potential development for Lauren and Taylor).
Cue up the Lauren's family drama, and watch the quality free fall. In order for that plot to work Lauren's nature is revealed to be liar, coward, and manipulator. In other words everything that happens after the 60%, is a rampage to destroy anything positive. Worse, it tarnished bits of book 1 too- Really undermining Emma and Lauren's "friendship" as hollow, one sided and a convenience for Lauren.
Lauren trusts no one while begging everyone to wait, with vague promises of plans. Plans that are mainly running, hiding and hurting everyone around her. On purpose. Consciously. She's unintentionally written the same as Stephen/the villain/her father, but somehow I'm supposed to like her?
First her plan is to cheat on Taylor. Which Taylor discovers while she's on a date with another guy. So then she settles for just hiding him. And then dumping him for his own good, while channeling her inner sociopath- to be as brutal as possible about it, by bringing up his past trauma.
And the family corporate drama continues. I can honestly say, I didn't like Lauren at this point, and I did not give the tiniest fuck about what happened to her grandfather's company. But a solid chunk is wasted on it, like the structure of a fictional corporate board is the main priority and makes all of the terrible things worth it. Uhhhm. No.
The entire family drama could have been avoided ENTIRELY if Lauren had had an honest conversation with her grandfather. AT ANY POINT.
At 85%, she's all "Taylor I'm going to prove I love you, can I?" And let me tell you. His door mat/punching bag character, was not the one that needed to be convinced.
I'm not sure how grand gestures prove she won't continue to treat him like shit. But he's ready to take her back instantly. Even though she's not sorry for anything she did. She learned nothing. Grew nowhere.
She's sorry he's upset and hurt, yet would do it all the same way over again.
This book really ruined Lauren, and made me feel bad for Taylor. Where the Experiment/book 1 was all about Emma's determination to grow, this one is about Lauren's commitment to stagnate.
It looks like book 3 is pulling the runs the same timeline/happens as the same time.
I am a lot less excited for it.
Cue up the Lauren's family drama, and watch the quality free fall. In order for that plot to work Lauren's nature is revealed to be liar, coward, and manipulator. In other words everything that happens after the 60%, is a rampage to destroy anything positive. Worse, it tarnished bits of book 1 too- Really undermining Emma and Lauren's "friendship" as hollow, one sided and a convenience for Lauren.
Lauren trusts no one while begging everyone to wait, with vague promises of plans. Plans that are mainly running, hiding and hurting everyone around her. On purpose. Consciously. She's unintentionally written the same as Stephen/the villain/her father, but somehow I'm supposed to like her?
First her plan is to cheat on Taylor. Which Taylor discovers while she's on a date with another guy. So then she settles for just hiding him. And then dumping him for his own good, while channeling her inner sociopath- to be as brutal as possible about it, by bringing up his past trauma.
And the family corporate drama continues. I can honestly say, I didn't like Lauren at this point, and I did not give the tiniest fuck about what happened to her grandfather's company. But a solid chunk is wasted on it, like the structure of a fictional corporate board is the main priority and makes all of the terrible things worth it. Uhhhm. No.
The entire family drama could have been avoided ENTIRELY if Lauren had had an honest conversation with her grandfather. AT ANY POINT.
At 85%, she's all "Taylor I'm going to prove I love you, can I?" And let me tell you. His door mat/punching bag character, was not the one that needed to be convinced.
I'm not sure how grand gestures prove she won't continue to treat him like shit. But he's ready to take her back instantly. Even though she's not sorry for anything she did. She learned nothing. Grew nowhere.
She's sorry he's upset and hurt, yet would do it all the same way over again.
This book really ruined Lauren, and made me feel bad for Taylor. Where the Experiment/book 1 was all about Emma's determination to grow, this one is about Lauren's commitment to stagnate.
It looks like book 3 is pulling the runs the same timeline/happens as the same time.
I am a lot less excited for it.
April 25, 2021
Thank you soo much Amy for sending us an ARC copy of your book.
Gahh this book!!! It's just wow. I was gripped from the very beginning of the story. It's compelling and alluring and takes you hostage from the get-go.
Lauren is a fiesty take no bull, not afraid to speak her mind women. She has been treated as the black sheep of her family since she can remember, however finding out the true intentions of her father and the manipulations he tries to enforce on her to make her compliant within the family and the telecommunications business gives Lauren the kick up the bum to leave her family, the ex who was under daddy's thumb and the life she hates behind.
When she finally lands in Landry, the love she feels from strangers is enlightening and she begins to build a life in the beautiful small town but her past is always lurking and her new life is something she doesn't want to be destroyed.
Taylor is the coach for the school football team. He was all set for going pro until an accident changed his life path, but this great big, sexy hulk of a man is the most caring patient and incredible man to grace Landry. He stayed in his home town after his accident and used the accident to helps make sure that other young athletes didn't get above themselves and made sure they all went to college with the best attitude they possibly could. Unfortunately, the guilt of the past still hangs over Taylor preventing him from fully moving on with his life until one fiesty, sexy and ballsy teacher starts working in the class next door.
The relationship between these two characters is hilarious, romantic, frustrating but my god is it hot. These two trying to stay away from each other is like a ship trying to stay away from water, never going to happen. You will seriously laugh, cry scream and shout at this book but trust me you will come out of it with a Cheshire cat grin on your face and still feel reeling from their story. I am soo gutted it's over as I felt like a part of their journey in reading the book.
Amy this book is amazing and I can't recommend it enough for people to go and read this story, trust me you will not regret it.
My Overall rating is 5 💋💋💋💋💋
my passion rating us 4 1/2 💋💋💋💋😘
Gahh this book!!! It's just wow. I was gripped from the very beginning of the story. It's compelling and alluring and takes you hostage from the get-go.
Lauren is a fiesty take no bull, not afraid to speak her mind women. She has been treated as the black sheep of her family since she can remember, however finding out the true intentions of her father and the manipulations he tries to enforce on her to make her compliant within the family and the telecommunications business gives Lauren the kick up the bum to leave her family, the ex who was under daddy's thumb and the life she hates behind.
When she finally lands in Landry, the love she feels from strangers is enlightening and she begins to build a life in the beautiful small town but her past is always lurking and her new life is something she doesn't want to be destroyed.
Taylor is the coach for the school football team. He was all set for going pro until an accident changed his life path, but this great big, sexy hulk of a man is the most caring patient and incredible man to grace Landry. He stayed in his home town after his accident and used the accident to helps make sure that other young athletes didn't get above themselves and made sure they all went to college with the best attitude they possibly could. Unfortunately, the guilt of the past still hangs over Taylor preventing him from fully moving on with his life until one fiesty, sexy and ballsy teacher starts working in the class next door.
The relationship between these two characters is hilarious, romantic, frustrating but my god is it hot. These two trying to stay away from each other is like a ship trying to stay away from water, never going to happen. You will seriously laugh, cry scream and shout at this book but trust me you will come out of it with a Cheshire cat grin on your face and still feel reeling from their story. I am soo gutted it's over as I felt like a part of their journey in reading the book.
Amy this book is amazing and I can't recommend it enough for people to go and read this story, trust me you will not regret it.
My Overall rating is 5 💋💋💋💋💋
my passion rating us 4 1/2 💋💋💋💋😘
March 28, 2021
5 Stars! There's no denying I loved this book!
Lauren - teaching has always been her passion, not the family business, much to her father's annoyance. So when she finds out he and boyfriend have been using her to progress their own careers, she decides enough is enough and finally tries to break free and follow her dream. Unfortunately this was easier said than done. After starting at Landry High she starts to make some great new friends, including the hot coach who works next door. With a self-imposed man-hiatus, due to her father's constant threats, she's knows they can't be more than friends...right?
Taylor -his dreams of joining the NFL after college gets crushed after a terrible accident that ended up also ruining his ex-girlfriend's life. He's now a high school coach, but still carries around the guilt from his youth. He's not one for flings, but also is scared to once again open up his heart for more. This all changes when he meets the new sexy English teacher. Their connection is instantaneous, the spark, the sexual chemistry...it's all there. So why does she keep friend-zoning him?
I loved this book so much! It has everything you could want; humour, drama, a perfect combination of insta-lust but also slow burn, and of course with oodles of steam along the way! The banter between the MCs is just hilarious, but also super heart-warming at times when they open up about their pasts. Taylor is 100% book boyfriend goals. He's all in, no matter how many times Lauren tries to push him away when she thinks she's helping. Plus 6ft4 of footballer muscle and a heart of gold...yes please!
Can't wait Evan's book! The grumpy bartender needs his HEA!
**Honest ARC review**
No cheating. No cliff-hanger. HEA guaranteed.
Lauren - teaching has always been her passion, not the family business, much to her father's annoyance. So when she finds out he and boyfriend have been using her to progress their own careers, she decides enough is enough and finally tries to break free and follow her dream. Unfortunately this was easier said than done. After starting at Landry High she starts to make some great new friends, including the hot coach who works next door. With a self-imposed man-hiatus, due to her father's constant threats, she's knows they can't be more than friends...right?
Taylor -his dreams of joining the NFL after college gets crushed after a terrible accident that ended up also ruining his ex-girlfriend's life. He's now a high school coach, but still carries around the guilt from his youth. He's not one for flings, but also is scared to once again open up his heart for more. This all changes when he meets the new sexy English teacher. Their connection is instantaneous, the spark, the sexual chemistry...it's all there. So why does she keep friend-zoning him?
I loved this book so much! It has everything you could want; humour, drama, a perfect combination of insta-lust but also slow burn, and of course with oodles of steam along the way! The banter between the MCs is just hilarious, but also super heart-warming at times when they open up about their pasts. Taylor is 100% book boyfriend goals. He's all in, no matter how many times Lauren tries to push him away when she thinks she's helping. Plus 6ft4 of footballer muscle and a heart of gold...yes please!
Can't wait Evan's book! The grumpy bartender needs his HEA!
**Honest ARC review**
No cheating. No cliff-hanger. HEA guaranteed.
April 22, 2021
I was SO excited to go back to Landry; I'm convinced this may be my favorite romance small-town ever. Amy hit it out of the park with this one, so I highly suggest you pick it up ASAP. You've got family conflict, a haunted past, undeniable chemistry and attraction, a meddling small-town, and a delicious slow burn - what more could you want?
Amy does a great job of making her characters feel very real and Taylor and Lauren are no exceptions. By page 30, you're so excited for Lauren to get away from her family and start over in Landry, and by page 60, you wish that you could heal Taylor's past, and also have him be your forever football coach and teacher. While you're rooting for Lauren and Taylor to heal and move beyond their pasts, you're also hoping they'll find their way together. As a teacher's bff, I really appreciate the moments of teaching and coaching weaved into the story; you can tell that these two are great at what they do and really care about their jobs and their community- it just really hooks you into the story even more. And, if I can be honest for a second? Taylor has definitely made his way towards the top of my book boyfriend list- not only because of how he looks when he works out, but because of that kind-heart and caring nature. I found myself not wanting to leave Landry when it was over (good thing Amy's already dropped hints about book 3! 😁)
This book is a standalone, but actually takes place in an overlapping timeline with Landry Love 1, the Experiment, and we get to see another side of some of the interactions between Taylor and Lauren we saw in that first book. It was a really fun bonus, so while the two can be read totally separately, the timeline nerd in me loves this so much.
I give this one ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and a moderate steam rating.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Amy does a great job of making her characters feel very real and Taylor and Lauren are no exceptions. By page 30, you're so excited for Lauren to get away from her family and start over in Landry, and by page 60, you wish that you could heal Taylor's past, and also have him be your forever football coach and teacher. While you're rooting for Lauren and Taylor to heal and move beyond their pasts, you're also hoping they'll find their way together. As a teacher's bff, I really appreciate the moments of teaching and coaching weaved into the story; you can tell that these two are great at what they do and really care about their jobs and their community- it just really hooks you into the story even more. And, if I can be honest for a second? Taylor has definitely made his way towards the top of my book boyfriend list- not only because of how he looks when he works out, but because of that kind-heart and caring nature. I found myself not wanting to leave Landry when it was over (good thing Amy's already dropped hints about book 3! 😁)
This book is a standalone, but actually takes place in an overlapping timeline with Landry Love 1, the Experiment, and we get to see another side of some of the interactions between Taylor and Lauren we saw in that first book. It was a really fun bonus, so while the two can be read totally separately, the timeline nerd in me loves this so much.
I give this one ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and a moderate steam rating.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2021
***Thank you to the author for giving me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review***
This is the second book in the series and although you could read the books as a standalone, I feel they would be best enjoyed read as a series and in order.
You have Lauren who comes from a privileged, wealthy lifestyle really doesn’t want to have any part of that world. She seems to be a down to earth girl who just enjoys the simplicities in life. She decided to chase her dreams and do something that she loved which was teaching. When she moved to Landry for a position at the high school things definitely changed for her.
You have Taylor who had really big dreams and wanted to make it pro with his football career. Things don’t work out as planned like he wanted them to though because something happens and it takes all his chances he had of going pro.
Of course, what romance book would this be if both of the characters didn’t have an instant connection, even if it’s just friendship, and things spark from there? This is why I absolutely loved this book (and this series so far!) is that you do have that quiet little sleepy town with these wonderful characters that seem to be destined to find each other but you also have drama and such that tries to keep the cosmos from letting two people be together.
I absolutely LOVED Lauren and Taylor’s story and I just fell in love with this town even more. I sure wish this town existed because I would move there in a heartbeat!!
This is the second book in the series and although you could read the books as a standalone, I feel they would be best enjoyed read as a series and in order.
You have Lauren who comes from a privileged, wealthy lifestyle really doesn’t want to have any part of that world. She seems to be a down to earth girl who just enjoys the simplicities in life. She decided to chase her dreams and do something that she loved which was teaching. When she moved to Landry for a position at the high school things definitely changed for her.
You have Taylor who had really big dreams and wanted to make it pro with his football career. Things don’t work out as planned like he wanted them to though because something happens and it takes all his chances he had of going pro.
Of course, what romance book would this be if both of the characters didn’t have an instant connection, even if it’s just friendship, and things spark from there? This is why I absolutely loved this book (and this series so far!) is that you do have that quiet little sleepy town with these wonderful characters that seem to be destined to find each other but you also have drama and such that tries to keep the cosmos from letting two people be together.
I absolutely LOVED Lauren and Taylor’s story and I just fell in love with this town even more. I sure wish this town existed because I would move there in a heartbeat!!
April 22, 2021
Title: The Denial Game
Author: Amy Alves
Hero/Heroine: Taylor and Lauren
Trope: Friends to Lovers
THE GOOD 😁
Taylor and Lauren. Lauren and Taylor. Tayren. Laulor (I can’t decide what their celebrity couple name should be). These pair gave me all of the feels, and a whole load more. The banter, the sass and the eventual sexy times combined together made this one of the ultimate friends to lovers romances in my opinion.
Escaping the clutches of her toxic family, Lauren is determined to continue to teach whilst making her own rules for how she wants to live her life. When she meets Taylor, a fellow teacher at the school where she’s just got a job, and tries to take him out with a set of keys (if you know you know), a beautiful friendship between the two is born.
Both Taylor and Lauren have things in their past that they’re either trying to escape from or make amends for, which in turn is what binds them together, and ultimately, tears them apart. I was constantly cheering for them and praying that Lauren would find her way back from the situation with her family.
I adored the story, the characters and being able to revisit the gorgeously quirky town of Landry. If you haven’t read The Experiment, then hop to it, and once you’re done with that, binge read The Denial Game. You will not regret it.
THE BAD ☹️
Lauren’s family. What’s the plural for a group of dickheads? Apart from her Grandad, he was just adorable.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: A small town, steamy friends to lovers romance that had me gripped from the first to the very last word.
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Amy Alves
Hero/Heroine: Taylor and Lauren
Trope: Friends to Lovers
THE GOOD 😁
Taylor and Lauren. Lauren and Taylor. Tayren. Laulor (I can’t decide what their celebrity couple name should be). These pair gave me all of the feels, and a whole load more. The banter, the sass and the eventual sexy times combined together made this one of the ultimate friends to lovers romances in my opinion.
Escaping the clutches of her toxic family, Lauren is determined to continue to teach whilst making her own rules for how she wants to live her life. When she meets Taylor, a fellow teacher at the school where she’s just got a job, and tries to take him out with a set of keys (if you know you know), a beautiful friendship between the two is born.
Both Taylor and Lauren have things in their past that they’re either trying to escape from or make amends for, which in turn is what binds them together, and ultimately, tears them apart. I was constantly cheering for them and praying that Lauren would find her way back from the situation with her family.
I adored the story, the characters and being able to revisit the gorgeously quirky town of Landry. If you haven’t read The Experiment, then hop to it, and once you’re done with that, binge read The Denial Game. You will not regret it.
THE BAD ☹️
Lauren’s family. What’s the plural for a group of dickheads? Apart from her Grandad, he was just adorable.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: A small town, steamy friends to lovers romance that had me gripped from the first to the very last word.
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 20, 2021
I loved this book!
We meet Lauren and Taylor in The Experiment.
Now, when I started reading The Denial Game, I was initially confused. It begins BEFORE Emma and Jess meet, so I double-checked to see if I'd read them out of order.
But I hadn't.
Then, as I read more, it dawned on me that the timelines are woven together.
WHAT??!
The skill needed to pull of this type of writing is immense, and Amy freaking delivered.
Anyway, back to the book.
Lauren's a feisty, badass, and smart-mouthed woman whose family is nothing short of slimy, manipulating ass-hats.
Well, except for her grandpa, who's adorable.
Because of them, Lauren has to steer clear of anything that remotely makes her happy, especially...
Taylor, a 'behemoth' of a man who has a past that still haunts him.
When these two meet, sparks don't just fly, the explode!
Lauren's man hiatus becomes increasingly weaker the more these two interact.
Taylor lets her know he's not messing around in his interest of her.
They can't seem to stay away from each other.
I don't want to give any more details away.
You NEED this series.
You'll laugh, yell, and get choked up as they struggle to find the happiness they desperately deserve.
I can't wait for book 3!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
We meet Lauren and Taylor in The Experiment.
Now, when I started reading The Denial Game, I was initially confused. It begins BEFORE Emma and Jess meet, so I double-checked to see if I'd read them out of order.
But I hadn't.
Then, as I read more, it dawned on me that the timelines are woven together.
WHAT??!
The skill needed to pull of this type of writing is immense, and Amy freaking delivered.
Anyway, back to the book.
Lauren's a feisty, badass, and smart-mouthed woman whose family is nothing short of slimy, manipulating ass-hats.
Well, except for her grandpa, who's adorable.
Because of them, Lauren has to steer clear of anything that remotely makes her happy, especially...
Taylor, a 'behemoth' of a man who has a past that still haunts him.
When these two meet, sparks don't just fly, the explode!
Lauren's man hiatus becomes increasingly weaker the more these two interact.
Taylor lets her know he's not messing around in his interest of her.
They can't seem to stay away from each other.
I don't want to give any more details away.
You NEED this series.
You'll laugh, yell, and get choked up as they struggle to find the happiness they desperately deserve.
I can't wait for book 3!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
April 22, 2021
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
In the second instalment of the Landry Love series, we’re focusing on Lauren and Taylor’s story. Full of pranks, scare tactics, and family drama, The Denial Game is a steamy read that will have you rooting for the characters the entire time.
I knew I wanted Lauren’s story from the moment I met her in The Experiment (Jess and Emma’s story). Her and Taylor’s “friendship” throughout book 1 was chemical and comical and everything in between. And book 2 did not disappoint. Not one bit!
Taylor and Lauren’s chemistry is sizzling hot—it makes you wonder how they managed to stay off each other for so long. Although, the wait made everything much steamier and passionate. But like all good love stories, the past catches up to the present and reeks havoc in the new world, throwing everything askew. The author does an amazing job at bringing the character’s struggles to life and throws an epic curveball into the plot that you don’t see coming! It intensifies everything, and draws the reader in indefinitely. You. Need. To. Know. What. Happens.
If you love small town romances, meddling neighbours, and intense family drama integrated into epic love journeys, then this book is for you! Get ready to fall in love with Bandit and Chicken and all their little nuances.
Available now!
In the second instalment of the Landry Love series, we’re focusing on Lauren and Taylor’s story. Full of pranks, scare tactics, and family drama, The Denial Game is a steamy read that will have you rooting for the characters the entire time.
I knew I wanted Lauren’s story from the moment I met her in The Experiment (Jess and Emma’s story). Her and Taylor’s “friendship” throughout book 1 was chemical and comical and everything in between. And book 2 did not disappoint. Not one bit!
Taylor and Lauren’s chemistry is sizzling hot—it makes you wonder how they managed to stay off each other for so long. Although, the wait made everything much steamier and passionate. But like all good love stories, the past catches up to the present and reeks havoc in the new world, throwing everything askew. The author does an amazing job at bringing the character’s struggles to life and throws an epic curveball into the plot that you don’t see coming! It intensifies everything, and draws the reader in indefinitely. You. Need. To. Know. What. Happens.
If you love small town romances, meddling neighbours, and intense family drama integrated into epic love journeys, then this book is for you! Get ready to fall in love with Bandit and Chicken and all their little nuances.
Available now!
March 31, 2021
She’s trying to get away from her family and their crazy ideas of how she should live her life. Her plan includes not dating so they can’t interfere. He is trying to make up for a mistake he made as a teenager. His road to redemption doesn’t include her. But you know what they say about best laid plans...
OMG... Taylor... I want dibs on him! He is so amazing! The guy needs to give himself credit for all the amazing things he has done for so many people! He is funny and sweet, and such an amazing teacher! So is Lauren! I love how real they are with their students. Teaching and having fun! I wish I had more teachers like that growing up! And the banter between these two? Oh boy! They are hysterical! These are two amazing characters with such depth to them! They will reach out of the pages and grab you, not letting go until their story is complete! I sat on the edge of my seat, with my heart in my stomach as I waited for them to find a way. My absolute favorite part is her plan to win him over! Bandit and Chicken posters! Amazing! And don’t forget about that ending... so dang good!
Landry is such an amazing little town, and even includes my all time favorite grumpy bartender, Evan! (Who is getting his HEA in book #3!!!) These are definitely my kind of people 😉
I absolutely love Amy’s style of writing and way with words! Do not miss this story! You will love it!
OMG... Taylor... I want dibs on him! He is so amazing! The guy needs to give himself credit for all the amazing things he has done for so many people! He is funny and sweet, and such an amazing teacher! So is Lauren! I love how real they are with their students. Teaching and having fun! I wish I had more teachers like that growing up! And the banter between these two? Oh boy! They are hysterical! These are two amazing characters with such depth to them! They will reach out of the pages and grab you, not letting go until their story is complete! I sat on the edge of my seat, with my heart in my stomach as I waited for them to find a way. My absolute favorite part is her plan to win him over! Bandit and Chicken posters! Amazing! And don’t forget about that ending... so dang good!
Landry is such an amazing little town, and even includes my all time favorite grumpy bartender, Evan! (Who is getting his HEA in book #3!!!) These are definitely my kind of people 😉
I absolutely love Amy’s style of writing and way with words! Do not miss this story! You will love it!
March 27, 2021
In the first novel, Emma moves to the small town of Landry to escape her past and finds a dating coach to teach her how not to be awkward in the dating scene. This second novel pictured above is about Emma’s best friend Lauren, who moves to the town months before Emma. She is passionate about teaching and has a meet cute with another teacher at the school, Taylor. They have to work together to get out from under the thumb of Lauren’s manipulative family in order to gain freedom for their relationship.
This book has great banter... I loved Taylor’s character, almost as much as I loved Jess from the 1st novel.
This woman is the queen of knowing how to build up a relationship between two characters. Though I should probably call her the respectable title she earned, author, instead of women. In the middle of this novel, the stories have some overlap, but you get a completely separate perspective, therefore, every detail still feels fresh and not monotonous.
This book has great banter... I loved Taylor’s character, almost as much as I loved Jess from the 1st novel.
This woman is the queen of knowing how to build up a relationship between two characters. Though I should probably call her the respectable title she earned, author, instead of women. In the middle of this novel, the stories have some overlap, but you get a completely separate perspective, therefore, every detail still feels fresh and not monotonous.
April 7, 2021
Great Small Town Love Story with Great Characters!
Lauren's life totally consists of user and manipulators with the exception of her best friend Emma. She is passionate about her chosen profession of teaching which does not meet with her haughty family's approval. Lauren's family keeps interfering and she finally ends up in the small town of Landry. Landry's description and population make you want to move there.
Lauren is small but mighty and nearly takes out the school's coach in their first meeting. Lots of laughs, angst, and love throughout the book. Love how the author kept you guessing on what her family's plotting involved and where the story was going next.
I received an ARC and this is a voluntary review.
Lauren's life totally consists of user and manipulators with the exception of her best friend Emma. She is passionate about her chosen profession of teaching which does not meet with her haughty family's approval. Lauren's family keeps interfering and she finally ends up in the small town of Landry. Landry's description and population make you want to move there.
Lauren is small but mighty and nearly takes out the school's coach in their first meeting. Lots of laughs, angst, and love throughout the book. Love how the author kept you guessing on what her family's plotting involved and where the story was going next.
I received an ARC and this is a voluntary review.
April 13, 2021
The second book in the Landry Love Series is every bit as lovable and enjoyable as the first.
The Denial Game is littered with Amy Alves' trademark humour, laugh out loud moments and witty back and forth dialogue. But in between that, there are sparkling moments of intrigue, as well as sweetness and vulnerability.
I adored both Lauren and Taylor, they're both so well rounded and multi-dimensional they leap out of the pages.
This is a slow burn romance so we're kept waiting for that HEA, but their relationship is built up beautifully and I loved watching that transition from strangers to friends to lovers, and their inevitable fall.
This is a beautifully written story and I can't wait for the next installment.
The Denial Game is littered with Amy Alves' trademark humour, laugh out loud moments and witty back and forth dialogue. But in between that, there are sparkling moments of intrigue, as well as sweetness and vulnerability.
I adored both Lauren and Taylor, they're both so well rounded and multi-dimensional they leap out of the pages.
This is a slow burn romance so we're kept waiting for that HEA, but their relationship is built up beautifully and I loved watching that transition from strangers to friends to lovers, and their inevitable fall.
This is a beautifully written story and I can't wait for the next installment.
April 2, 2021
I´m feeling conflicted about this book. Don't get me wrong I L.OV.E. it, my conflict comes to decide if I'm more like Taylor with his sweet tooth or more like Lauren with her sassy personality...and to get scared easily by movies or books (that's a story for another day).
The book is longer than the previous one in Landry Love Series but it trap me so much in the story that I couldn't stop reading it, made me gain a few pounds with just the food mention, laugh at so many situations and rage to very specific characters.
Landry Life League is back! And I'm hoping for the next book to have more intrusion and gossip from them.
The book is longer than the previous one in Landry Love Series but it trap me so much in the story that I couldn't stop reading it, made me gain a few pounds with just the food mention, laugh at so many situations and rage to very specific characters.
Landry Life League is back! And I'm hoping for the next book to have more intrusion and gossip from them.
May 1, 2021
A sweet, small town romance. Lauren moves to Landry to escape her manipulative parents and live out her dream of being a teacher. She quickly meets Taylor, a coach and fellow teacher, who has a dark moment in his past he’s still struggling to get through. As Lauren and Taylor develop feelings for each other, Lauren worries her father will scare Taylor away by threatening his job.
Going through this story, I couldn’t help but be reminded of a steamier Hallmark movie. It has the romantic comedy element along with the sweetness and problem that leads to strain in the developing relationship.
Thanks to Amy Alves for providing me with a copy to review!
Going through this story, I couldn’t help but be reminded of a steamier Hallmark movie. It has the romantic comedy element along with the sweetness and problem that leads to strain in the developing relationship.
Thanks to Amy Alves for providing me with a copy to review!
May 29, 2021
This is a must read, sweet, steamy, feel good romance!
After reading The Experiment, I was definitely eager to get some back story and find out more about the relationship between Lauren and Taylor.
Taylor is not used to being friend zoned, but that’s just what Lauren does. Relegated to just friends and coworkers but with a spark that refuses to be extinguished, along with Taylor hoping Lauren will want to end her “man-hiatus”...with him, their slow burn was something else!
The pranks, teasing and flirting were highly entertaining. This is such a fun and witty read that made me giggle and smile throughout.
After reading The Experiment, I was definitely eager to get some back story and find out more about the relationship between Lauren and Taylor.
Taylor is not used to being friend zoned, but that’s just what Lauren does. Relegated to just friends and coworkers but with a spark that refuses to be extinguished, along with Taylor hoping Lauren will want to end her “man-hiatus”...with him, their slow burn was something else!
The pranks, teasing and flirting were highly entertaining. This is such a fun and witty read that made me giggle and smile throughout.
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