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Miami Piranhas #5
Playing Deep
Kenyon Ellis knows getting involved with Julian Anderson is an enormous mistake—but from the very first night, he finds him annoying, intriguing and ultimately, irresistible.
One, Kenyon is a player, and Julian is a reporter, so hooking up with him, no matter how spectacular the nights are, is a terrible idea.
Two, he’s falling for him, even if Julian continues to be prickly and impossible. But every time Julian’s walls shift, Kenyon sees the real man behind the attitude, and he only wants more.
Three, between the Piranhas and the charity work he’s committed to, Kenyon really doesn’t have the time for a relationship—but a relationship with Julian turns out to be exactly what he wants.
Maybe even exactly what he needs.
But when Julian starts calling out his performance on the field, the last thing Kenyon expects is his betrayal. But is it betrayal? Or does Julian see something in Kenyon that he’s lost?
The answer leads him not only to love, but to the biggest crossroads of his life.
The fifth and final Miami Piranhas book.
One, Kenyon is a player, and Julian is a reporter, so hooking up with him, no matter how spectacular the nights are, is a terrible idea.
Two, he’s falling for him, even if Julian continues to be prickly and impossible. But every time Julian’s walls shift, Kenyon sees the real man behind the attitude, and he only wants more.
Three, between the Piranhas and the charity work he’s committed to, Kenyon really doesn’t have the time for a relationship—but a relationship with Julian turns out to be exactly what he wants.
Maybe even exactly what he needs.
But when Julian starts calling out his performance on the field, the last thing Kenyon expects is his betrayal. But is it betrayal? Or does Julian see something in Kenyon that he’s lost?
The answer leads him not only to love, but to the biggest crossroads of his life.
The fifth and final Miami Piranhas book.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 15, 2023
122 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Beth Bolden
77 books685 followersA lifelong Oregonian, Beth Bolden has just recently moved to North Carolina with her supportive husband and their sweet kitten, Earl Grey. Beth still believes in Keeping Portland Weird, and intends to be just as weird in Raleigh.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published fourteen novels and five short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
January 4, 2023
So the journey of the Miami Piranhas comes to a close and I am absolutely gutted! I have loved every one of the books in this series and I still can't quite decide if this one, Kenyon and Julian's romance, has beaten Coach and Scott's.
I think I'm still hedging to Asa finally getting his man after a lifetime of knowing Scott but this one has taken it close to the line.
Kenyon's not looking for anything when he bumps into Julian in a seedy bar during Spring training but there's a spark between them which won't be denied from the start.
And there's no reason their hook-up's should stop just because Julian's a reporter with CBS covering the Piranhas' games is there?!
This book is a real mixture of UST, angsty longing which neither man will admit to, secrets and wishes that ultimately won't be denied.
The timeline overlaps with that of some of the previous books in the series, so we get snippets of the rest of the guys but from Kenyon's perspective inside the dressing room and Julian's insightful commentary in his matchday reports and questions.
It's as funny in places as the rest of the series has been, but there's also a sense of more weight being given to the narrative. Kenyon isn't a football or I'll die guy, it's a means to an end for him, helping him find sponsors and donors for his charitable foundation.
He knows how tough it was being a black kid in school with dyslexia, he got help, but loads of other kids don't and so his foundation is really his driving purpose.
Julian's hiding secrets of his own, a foster kid who's never been put first, his boss Nikki's faith in him as a reporter gives him the drive to be successful, but he knows it comes with strings.
Watching these two nuggets fall in love is both exhilarating and frustrating because they're in denial for so long, knowing they're pushing the boundaries of every rule about fraternisation.
I probably got more emotional at this book than any of the others in the series I think, even though each one has had moments that caught my heartstrings and twisted them all up in a ball.
But it's in watching Julian realise that Kenyon will always put him first, be there for him, want him in spite of all his prickles, that this book becomes joyous and the causer of leaky eyes!
I am so sad to be leaving the Piranhas behind but I know Beth has plans for some of the guys here which will mean we will see them all again and I cannot wait to discover where she goes with the spin-off series!
As ever, I beta read this book for Beth.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
I think I'm still hedging to Asa finally getting his man after a lifetime of knowing Scott but this one has taken it close to the line.
Kenyon's not looking for anything when he bumps into Julian in a seedy bar during Spring training but there's a spark between them which won't be denied from the start.
And there's no reason their hook-up's should stop just because Julian's a reporter with CBS covering the Piranhas' games is there?!
This book is a real mixture of UST, angsty longing which neither man will admit to, secrets and wishes that ultimately won't be denied.
The timeline overlaps with that of some of the previous books in the series, so we get snippets of the rest of the guys but from Kenyon's perspective inside the dressing room and Julian's insightful commentary in his matchday reports and questions.
It's as funny in places as the rest of the series has been, but there's also a sense of more weight being given to the narrative. Kenyon isn't a football or I'll die guy, it's a means to an end for him, helping him find sponsors and donors for his charitable foundation.
He knows how tough it was being a black kid in school with dyslexia, he got help, but loads of other kids don't and so his foundation is really his driving purpose.
Julian's hiding secrets of his own, a foster kid who's never been put first, his boss Nikki's faith in him as a reporter gives him the drive to be successful, but he knows it comes with strings.
Watching these two nuggets fall in love is both exhilarating and frustrating because they're in denial for so long, knowing they're pushing the boundaries of every rule about fraternisation.
I probably got more emotional at this book than any of the others in the series I think, even though each one has had moments that caught my heartstrings and twisted them all up in a ball.
But it's in watching Julian realise that Kenyon will always put him first, be there for him, want him in spite of all his prickles, that this book becomes joyous and the causer of leaky eyes!
I am so sad to be leaving the Piranhas behind but I know Beth has plans for some of the guys here which will mean we will see them all again and I cannot wait to discover where she goes with the spin-off series!
As ever, I beta read this book for Beth.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
February 16, 2023
4.5
This was so close to perfect for me.
I love Beth Bolden and her story world, I really missed the Riptide when their series ended, and now I'm going to miss the Piranhas. She writes teams and found-families so well, there isn't a book of hers that I haven't really enjoyed.
Kenyon and Julian were really good together, I just needed a bit more emotional punch - I struggle to feel that when a book isn't first person, but this series has given me all the happy feels throughout.
Cannot wait for the new football series to come!
This was so close to perfect for me.
I love Beth Bolden and her story world, I really missed the Riptide when their series ended, and now I'm going to miss the Piranhas. She writes teams and found-families so well, there isn't a book of hers that I haven't really enjoyed.
Kenyon and Julian were really good together, I just needed a bit more emotional punch - I struggle to feel that when a book isn't first person, but this series has given me all the happy feels throughout.
Cannot wait for the new football series to come!
February 10, 2023
I received an ARC and leave this review voluntarily.
This one was hard for me to rate. It's like there were two warring sections of Julian and Kenyon's story. It took me a LONG time to warm up to them, especially Julian. We meet them, they hook up and then we jump until like 6 months later. All their relationship was based on was sex. We didn't get any sort of intimacy between them, but then all of a sudden feelings were caught and my gut reaction was WHY? I didn't particularly like Julian as a person up until somewhere around the 50-60% mark when he started becoming something resembling a human being.
That's when the second part of this starts to evolve. We start to see Julian in more human scenarios, coming out from behind his walls and it was beautiful. Maybe that is the genius behind Beth's portrayal of these two. We don't get to know Julian until Kenyon has finally started to break down walls and obstacles designed to keep the world from Julian and his real self.
I laughed and cried during the last parts of the book, the football, the team, teammates, and comraderie were perfect and I really didn't want this series to end. No lie, I love seeing all the guys from the Riptide, even in mention/passing.
So yeah, if you are feeling like I did at the beginning with Julian, just hang in there. The story was worth the journey.
This one was hard for me to rate. It's like there were two warring sections of Julian and Kenyon's story. It took me a LONG time to warm up to them, especially Julian. We meet them, they hook up and then we jump until like 6 months later. All their relationship was based on was sex. We didn't get any sort of intimacy between them, but then all of a sudden feelings were caught and my gut reaction was WHY? I didn't particularly like Julian as a person up until somewhere around the 50-60% mark when he started becoming something resembling a human being.
That's when the second part of this starts to evolve. We start to see Julian in more human scenarios, coming out from behind his walls and it was beautiful. Maybe that is the genius behind Beth's portrayal of these two. We don't get to know Julian until Kenyon has finally started to break down walls and obstacles designed to keep the world from Julian and his real self.
I laughed and cried during the last parts of the book, the football, the team, teammates, and comraderie were perfect and I really didn't want this series to end. No lie, I love seeing all the guys from the Riptide, even in mention/passing.
So yeah, if you are feeling like I did at the beginning with Julian, just hang in there. The story was worth the journey.
February 15, 2023
Can I give more than 5 stars?
Save the best for last
An excellent end to this series
I never thought Kenyon to be such an amazing character but…wow! Just wow! And Julian, a sports reporter…Julian is amazing with so many layers to enjoy
An all the guys from the previous books are here, of course, just being there to support Kenyon and after that Julian as well
Amazing, amazing book
And if you must, read the other books from this series and before that the Raptide series as well
Highly recommended
Save the best for last
An excellent end to this series
I never thought Kenyon to be such an amazing character but…wow! Just wow! And Julian, a sports reporter…Julian is amazing with so many layers to enjoy
An all the guys from the previous books are here, of course, just being there to support Kenyon and after that Julian as well
Amazing, amazing book
And if you must, read the other books from this series and before that the Raptide series as well
Highly recommended
January 30, 2024
Beautiful hurt/comfort romance.
Playing Deep, with Julian and Kenyon is just a wonderful way to end the Piranhas series. All the guys make an appearance, I adored the camaraderie and it's great to see how they've grown as a team, throughout each of their stories.
I loved Kenyon's character, he's never been in love, he has his own problems, but he is so patient and understanding with Julian, that you can't help fall a little in love with him. That's not to say he's all mushy because wow! The man may be sweet, but he knows when the bring out the heat and his possessive side. His character's the perfect amount of sugar and spice, and I absolutely adored that he fell first.
Julian, bless him, has not had it easy, and his past broke my heart a little. He guards himself with a fierce protection, and it takes a lot for him to trust someone. His past has left him feeling undeserving of love and feeling like he has to keep all his trauma to himself, but eventually Kenyon proves himself worthy of his trust, and when Julian finally gave himself over to his true feelings, it's truly a beautiful thing to see.
Beth Holden’s books always have a really good back story! She is so skilled at developing her characters and their worlds, that their emotions hit you hard. You'll find yourself moved by their joy, shredded by their pain and shattered by their secrets. The whole series has been an emotional rollercoaster, but so well worth the read. So sad to see it end. The audible version of the story is first class. It's such an emotional story, Darcy Starks' narration is really true to the story and the characters. Loved it.
I received an ARC of this story, which in no way influenced my opinion..
Playing Deep, with Julian and Kenyon is just a wonderful way to end the Piranhas series. All the guys make an appearance, I adored the camaraderie and it's great to see how they've grown as a team, throughout each of their stories.
I loved Kenyon's character, he's never been in love, he has his own problems, but he is so patient and understanding with Julian, that you can't help fall a little in love with him. That's not to say he's all mushy because wow! The man may be sweet, but he knows when the bring out the heat and his possessive side. His character's the perfect amount of sugar and spice, and I absolutely adored that he fell first.
Julian, bless him, has not had it easy, and his past broke my heart a little. He guards himself with a fierce protection, and it takes a lot for him to trust someone. His past has left him feeling undeserving of love and feeling like he has to keep all his trauma to himself, but eventually Kenyon proves himself worthy of his trust, and when Julian finally gave himself over to his true feelings, it's truly a beautiful thing to see.
Beth Holden’s books always have a really good back story! She is so skilled at developing her characters and their worlds, that their emotions hit you hard. You'll find yourself moved by their joy, shredded by their pain and shattered by their secrets. The whole series has been an emotional rollercoaster, but so well worth the read. So sad to see it end. The audible version of the story is first class. It's such an emotional story, Darcy Starks' narration is really true to the story and the characters. Loved it.
I received an ARC of this story, which in no way influenced my opinion..
February 5, 2023
Kenyon and Julian's story started different from the others, as they were hooking up from the first chapter. But it was the turning it into more where the real story was. Kenyon was more than ready- he had straight up heart eyes for Julian. And he didn't give up when it was hard or when Julian was prickly and tried to push him away. It was sweet, but so was seeing the tender side of Julian when he showed why it was so hard for him.
Oh my gosh, how hard can you root for a fake team?! I love these guys. And the end made me cry. Not just for this couple but for everyone. Such a good ending.
Oh my gosh, how hard can you root for a fake team?! I love these guys. And the end made me cry. Not just for this couple but for everyone. Such a good ending.
February 17, 2023
This is book 5 and the finale to this series. This is the story of Kenyon Ellis and Julian Anderson. Kenyon is a professional football player on the Piranhas team. The first night of spring training, he escapes and has a one night hook up before the season starts. Unfortunately, his hook up turns out to be the new reporter following the team, Julian. When they both realize who the other is made me laugh. You could understand the anger and frustration on both sides. Both decide that they can continue their relationship in secret because it won't grow into a real relationship. You know that old expression, be careful what you wish for. This is their story. You really should read the earlier books first before reading this one. I do have to add that this isn't my favourite of the series. It is still enjoyable but I just wasn't as taken with Julian and Kenyon as I was with the other couples. This book is well written and easy to read.
I received an ARC edition and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC edition and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
February 1, 2024This is the last book in the Piranhas series and its a fitting end to the series. I hadn't really noticed Kenyon in the previous books, at least not until he got caught by coach sneaking around after curfew in Asa and Scott's book.
Overall I enjoyed this story, especially the ensemble parts with the team. The constant insistance that it was 'just sex' went on a little too long in my mind, especially with Julian repeatedly denying his feelings.
* sports
* American Football
* interracial
* player x journalist
* found family
Overall I enjoyed this story, especially the ensemble parts with the team. The constant insistance that it was 'just sex' went on a little too long in my mind, especially with Julian repeatedly denying his feelings.
* sports
* American Football
* interracial
* player x journalist
* found family
March 17, 2023
Eh, this was fine. For a series I’ve really loved it was kind of a disappointing way to wrap it up. I was hoping Micah’s story would be the last book, but I’m betting Beth has plans for him. If you’re looking for a really great sports romance series, all of these are incredibly solid stories, highly recommend
Read
February 21, 2023DNF almost immediately. It starts so bad, just boring and also, separately, laughably bad. Ah, the relaxation of mindlessly reading and rejecting something while in line at the pharmacy, the sense of gaining some pleasant control over your surroundings at last.
February 7, 2024
I didn’t think I could love this as much as I loved Asa and Scott… but I was definitely wrong!
The heat, the snark, the denial between them… what an amazing story! I was hooked from the taster at the end of the last book and it only got better the more I read!
Absolutely amazing listen!
The heat, the snark, the denial between them… what an amazing story! I was hooked from the taster at the end of the last book and it only got better the more I read!
Absolutely amazing listen!
June 22, 2023
At first, I really wasn't sure if I was going to like this one. Kenyon had not played a big part in the rest of the series, and I found it hard to connect with him after that, especially since there was so much focus on the rest of the characters. I also was unsure of Julian after the handful of interactions we got with him in previous books, but I ended up loving them both. They're such different characters, but they fit and work so well. I hated seeing this series come to an end, but this was a great conclusion to it.
February 15, 2023
A series read
I have enjoyed this series but I have to say this book hasn’t been my favourite. There are parts that were great and other parts where I wanted to stop reading. It was good to see Kenyon get his story even if it wasn’t the one he deserved.
I have enjoyed this series but I have to say this book hasn’t been my favourite. There are parts that were great and other parts where I wanted to stop reading. It was good to see Kenyon get his story even if it wasn’t the one he deserved.
February 22, 2023
Check out our full post for PLAYING DEEP on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Shannan – ☆☆☆☆
PLAYING DEEP is the fifth and (sadly) final installment in the Miami Piranhas series. It can be read as a standalone but it shouldn't. You need to experience the past characters' stories to truly appreciate this one.
Is this my favorite in the series? No
But did I still really enjoy it? Absolutely.
Kenyon Ellis is a quiet guy. He's kept to himself, for the most part, in the last two years on the Piranhas. But he needs some advice from his friends and teammates when he finds himself in a situation he never saw coming. He sneaks out during training to a dump of a bar, and he never expected to be hit on by the most gorgeous guy he's ever seen. A quick hookup in the bathroom leads to some confusion on the field the next day when Kenyon sees the guy he hooked up with is a reporter. Sleeping with a reporter is definitely a terrible idea but Kenyon can't seem to stop. And the rules they set in place aren't helping the fact that Kenyon is falling hard for Julian. The walls Julian has put up to protect himself aren't stopping Kenyon from wanting to get to know him better. But when Julian gives an interview on a podcast calling out Kenyon's playing, Kenyon feels betrayed and after seeing the footage, he's more confused if football is something he still wants to do.
Here's why it wasn't my favorite. I never felt that connection with Julian. He just seemed all over the place and his inner monologue drove me crazy. I did enjoy the second half of the book when Julian started dropping some of the walls, but I still didn't love him.
I still enjoyed the read and I am gutted that this is the last book in the series. I've loved going on this emotional ride and it's like saying goodbye to friends. (In my world, I'd be besties with the team. LOL)
I can't wait to see what Beth Bolden has in store for us next!
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fifth book in the series, and I would recommend you read them in order to get the full goodness, but if you want to start here and retrace your steps, that's fine too! This definitely stands well on its own.
Kenyon cannot fight the temptation to take the preppy guy he meets in a bar out the back. He shouldn't have slipped out of the training camp for a drink, let alone for an encounter! The second comes back to bite him, when Julian turns out to be a journalist who will be on the Piranhas case all season. The sense of betrayal is deep, but actually Julian really did not know who he was... and Julian hides a lot about himself in his choice of clothes and demeanour.
As we watch the football season unfold, we also get to see how their influence on each other, whilst pursuing a secret friends-with-benefits arrangement. It adds a level of complexity which neither need, and yet don't seem to want to avoid until… well, you need to read it for yourself to get the full story, but rest assured it is twisty, sexy, and ends just how we want all such stories to end, with revelations to make the heart sing.
Another very good installment in this series. Thank you, Beth Bolden!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
February 18, 2023
a highly entertaining and deeply thoughtful show, that ends as it should.
Rating: 4.75🌈
A finale book is a hard one to read and I imagine, extremely hard for the author to write. For a reader, especially a fan of the series, expectations are high to see how the writer can send off the characters and close down the arc in a way which satisfies us and makes sense.
Much the same as it must be for the author who’s been writing and creating these characters and their stories over a period of time. If it’s a series like the Miami Piranhas, where we had an entire NFL football team and a whole bunch of couples, well that makes the finale that more challenging.
So I liked that Bolden chose to make her two last characters and couple in this series , men at crossroads in their lives, whether they realized it at the time. Men with doubts and thinking about their own life choices. On and around a team that’s newly reformed and establishing themselves and their own identity in the NFL. It’s looking like a a fresh start or beginning will happen but there’s to be a ending first.
So logical and well planned. While the story didn’t go into detail about some elements, it brought full circle so many aspects of this series (as as as another), that it led me back into the other series to begin again.
The character of prickly journalist Julian Anderson, who has quite the journey of emotional growth and professional development, is one I got. He is layered with the believable qualities of someone who’s experienced deep loss and abandonment, and now has the barriers to show for it.
His chemistry and relationship with Kenyon Ellis is real, emotionally fraught with issues and the tough facts of each person’s profession and painful history.
Kenyon Ellis. What an incredible man and character. Bolden shows her deep love and understanding of this sport in Ellis. His love for his team, his divided attention, his guilt, everything that preying on his mind and heart at this time of his life and career. He’s painfully, beautifully real in every aspect of his personality and my favorite character.
All the others from the team make impressive supporting roles here to come together as a team and as friends.
No spoilers this time. Just a white knuckle ride and a highly entertaining and deeply thoughtful show, that ends as it should.
I’d give a trophy for them and this. And I hope to maybe see them again someday. You never know in a Bolden book .
Yes, I’m highly recommending this and the series.
Miami Piranhas series:
🔹Playing For Keeps #1
🔹Playing The Player #2
🔹Playing By The Rules #3
🔹Winning The Season #4
🔷Playing Deep #5 - Series Finale
Rating: 4.75🌈
A finale book is a hard one to read and I imagine, extremely hard for the author to write. For a reader, especially a fan of the series, expectations are high to see how the writer can send off the characters and close down the arc in a way which satisfies us and makes sense.
Much the same as it must be for the author who’s been writing and creating these characters and their stories over a period of time. If it’s a series like the Miami Piranhas, where we had an entire NFL football team and a whole bunch of couples, well that makes the finale that more challenging.
So I liked that Bolden chose to make her two last characters and couple in this series , men at crossroads in their lives, whether they realized it at the time. Men with doubts and thinking about their own life choices. On and around a team that’s newly reformed and establishing themselves and their own identity in the NFL. It’s looking like a a fresh start or beginning will happen but there’s to be a ending first.
So logical and well planned. While the story didn’t go into detail about some elements, it brought full circle so many aspects of this series (as as as another), that it led me back into the other series to begin again.
The character of prickly journalist Julian Anderson, who has quite the journey of emotional growth and professional development, is one I got. He is layered with the believable qualities of someone who’s experienced deep loss and abandonment, and now has the barriers to show for it.
His chemistry and relationship with Kenyon Ellis is real, emotionally fraught with issues and the tough facts of each person’s profession and painful history.
Kenyon Ellis. What an incredible man and character. Bolden shows her deep love and understanding of this sport in Ellis. His love for his team, his divided attention, his guilt, everything that preying on his mind and heart at this time of his life and career. He’s painfully, beautifully real in every aspect of his personality and my favorite character.
All the others from the team make impressive supporting roles here to come together as a team and as friends.
No spoilers this time. Just a white knuckle ride and a highly entertaining and deeply thoughtful show, that ends as it should.
I’d give a trophy for them and this. And I hope to maybe see them again someday. You never know in a Bolden book .
Yes, I’m highly recommending this and the series.
Miami Piranhas series:
🔹Playing For Keeps #1
🔹Playing The Player #2
🔹Playing By The Rules #3
🔹Winning The Season #4
🔷Playing Deep #5 - Series Finale
February 15, 2023
Well this is hard. As always when a series ends, it is difficult to say goodbye to the characters we accompany on their journeys. When I finished The Riptide series (also by Beth Bolden) it was somewhat easier because then I had this new series coming and from time to time one of the old characters would appear. And although a spin off with a new team is coming up, I don't know why it's harder this time for me to say goodbye.
I have to say it was a great ending. Not only did we get Kenyon and Julian's story, but it was like closure with the rest of the team.
They meet one night when Kenyon snuck out of the training ground to have a few drinks at a nearby bar and the chemistry was immediate. They hooked up without knowing who the other was, thinking that they would never see each other again, however, they soon met again. Julian was the CBS reporter sent to cover the news for Los Piranhas, Kenyon's team. And after the initial suspicions, they continued to hook up in secret and vowing there would be no feelings between them, because a player and a reporter? Could be the end of their careers for one or both.
Six months later, Kenyon knew that Julian wasn't just someone to get off with. He meant so much more, but Julian is averse to anything close to feelings. And he has his reasons. Nothing in his life was easy. Little by little, however, Kenyon began to break through his defenses, until Julian realized that Kenyon was not going to leave him, no matter how much he did to push him away.
They're both at a point where they have to make decisions, not only regarding their personal lives, but also their careers, and it's really amazing how they support each other.
I loved Julian. At first, it's hard to like him, because he's harsh, always calling out mistakes in interviews and being honest to the point of being painful in his opinions. He shows Kenyon where he's failing in his game, and he doesn't do it subtly. And I loved Kenyon. He is not the typical soccer player, who only breathes, lives and sleeps thinking about the game. No, for him, it's just a means to an end, his true passion. And when he realizes that Julian is the one for him, he shows him that he accepts him as he is, with all his faults. Even, that what Julian considers faults, is what attracts Kenyon the most.
Like I said, a great ending.
I hope the next spin off arrives NOW!!!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
I have to say it was a great ending. Not only did we get Kenyon and Julian's story, but it was like closure with the rest of the team.
They meet one night when Kenyon snuck out of the training ground to have a few drinks at a nearby bar and the chemistry was immediate. They hooked up without knowing who the other was, thinking that they would never see each other again, however, they soon met again. Julian was the CBS reporter sent to cover the news for Los Piranhas, Kenyon's team. And after the initial suspicions, they continued to hook up in secret and vowing there would be no feelings between them, because a player and a reporter? Could be the end of their careers for one or both.
Six months later, Kenyon knew that Julian wasn't just someone to get off with. He meant so much more, but Julian is averse to anything close to feelings. And he has his reasons. Nothing in his life was easy. Little by little, however, Kenyon began to break through his defenses, until Julian realized that Kenyon was not going to leave him, no matter how much he did to push him away.
They're both at a point where they have to make decisions, not only regarding their personal lives, but also their careers, and it's really amazing how they support each other.
I loved Julian. At first, it's hard to like him, because he's harsh, always calling out mistakes in interviews and being honest to the point of being painful in his opinions. He shows Kenyon where he's failing in his game, and he doesn't do it subtly. And I loved Kenyon. He is not the typical soccer player, who only breathes, lives and sleeps thinking about the game. No, for him, it's just a means to an end, his true passion. And when he realizes that Julian is the one for him, he shows him that he accepts him as he is, with all his faults. Even, that what Julian considers faults, is what attracts Kenyon the most.
Like I said, a great ending.
I hope the next spin off arrives NOW!!!
I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
February 23, 2023
I knew Beth Bolden was going to make me cry at the end of this series, but oh my god I was not expecting to fall so fast and hard for Kenyon and Julian. Their romance was so uniquely wonderful and relatable that it has instantly risen to the top of my favorites list, and I can't say enough good things about how amazing the storytelling was here!
Beth Bolden's slow burn romances were what originally hooked me on her writing style, but with Kenyon and Julian she sold me on an entirely different, hot and physical beginning. Julian and Kenyon jumped at the chance to get their hands on each other, no strings attached, and I surprised myself by being just as hooked on their connection as I usually am by a slower growing romance. Julian was the prickliest about anything involving feelings, so I knew he would resist Kenyon for as long as possible, and it was so entertaining to see them dance around each other during those first months. Little by little, Julian's rules about staying unattached began to crumble, and as Kenyon proved he couldn't be deflected easily, their romance slowly began to take shape.
For me, the big turning point was when Kenyon and Julian went on their first date. Maybe it's because Julian resisted so hard for so long, but seeing them actually admit they had feelings for each other and agree to give dating a chance felt like such a victory. Everything after that just clicked into place for me, from the love connection to the engaging football season storyline and changing career paths for both men. I love, love, love the way Beth Bolden brough everyone from the team together to finish their season on an inspirational high. The Piranhas have been building bonds all season long, and now they feel like such a tight-knit community with an epic future in store for them. I'm sad to say goodbye, but it also feels so good to know that (almost) everyone has gotten through the toughest part of their romantic journies and can happily tackle their next adventure together!
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
Beth Bolden's slow burn romances were what originally hooked me on her writing style, but with Kenyon and Julian she sold me on an entirely different, hot and physical beginning. Julian and Kenyon jumped at the chance to get their hands on each other, no strings attached, and I surprised myself by being just as hooked on their connection as I usually am by a slower growing romance. Julian was the prickliest about anything involving feelings, so I knew he would resist Kenyon for as long as possible, and it was so entertaining to see them dance around each other during those first months. Little by little, Julian's rules about staying unattached began to crumble, and as Kenyon proved he couldn't be deflected easily, their romance slowly began to take shape.
For me, the big turning point was when Kenyon and Julian went on their first date. Maybe it's because Julian resisted so hard for so long, but seeing them actually admit they had feelings for each other and agree to give dating a chance felt like such a victory. Everything after that just clicked into place for me, from the love connection to the engaging football season storyline and changing career paths for both men. I love, love, love the way Beth Bolden brough everyone from the team together to finish their season on an inspirational high. The Piranhas have been building bonds all season long, and now they feel like such a tight-knit community with an epic future in store for them. I'm sad to say goodbye, but it also feels so good to know that (almost) everyone has gotten through the toughest part of their romantic journies and can happily tackle their next adventure together!
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 5, 2023
This is a great finale to this series and sets up the premise for her next series. Kenyon is the star running back for the Miami Piranhas, and Julian is the new sports reporter assigned to the team. They meet one night at a seedy bar when training camp starts and don't realize who the other is until the next day at training camp when Kenyon sees Julian in the reporter stands and Julian seesKenyon on the practice field. Kenyon thinks that Julian is just a pretty, rich boy, and Julian thinks that Kenyon is a typical football player. They decide that their relationship is just sex and continue to sneak around during the season. However, as the season progresses they each realize that they have feelings for each other. Kenyon became a professional football player not for love of the game but instead to help fund his foundation "We Read" to help other children who are dyslexic like him. Julian, who grew up in foster care since he was 4 years old, is scared of his feelings for Kenyon so he makes hurtful but truthful remarks on a podcast about how Kenyon is not really dedicated t the team. This ends up changing the dynamics of their relationship. After fighting with and then talking with Julian, and Julian showing Kenyon some film, Kenyon realizes Julian was right. Kenyon pushes for more in their relationship and Julian grudgingly agrees. He tells Kenyon of his past in foster care and as a running back in college and of his fears that Kenyon will tire of him. Julian also fears being fired if his boss finds out about their relationship. This story demonstrates how people are not always as they seem and may have hidden layers. It also shows that sometimes playing professionally isn't always about love of the game but can be for other reasons. I really loved both characters and how they each liked the other for who they genuinely were as a person and didn't want the other to change. I also enjoyed how the other players reacted to their relationship and the resolution of their dilemma. I can't wait to read the new series set in Charleston.
February 16, 2023
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
PLAYING DEEP is the fifth and (sadly) final installment in the Miami Piranhas series. It can be read as a stand alone but it shouldn't. You need to experience the past character's stories to truly appreciate this one.
Is this my favorite in the series? No
But did I still really enjoy it? Absolutely.
Kenyon Ellis is a quiet guy. He's kept to himself for the most part in the last two years on the Piranhas. But he needs some advice from his friends and teammates when he finds himself in a situation he never saw coming. He sneaks out during training to a dump of a bar he never expected to be hit on by the most gorgeous guy he's ever seen. A quick hookup in the bathroom leads to some confusion on the field the next day when Kenyon sees the guy hooked up with is a reporter. Sleeping with a reporter is definitely a terrible idea but Kenyon can't seem to stop. And the rules that set in place aren't helping that fact that Kenyon is falling hard for Julian. The walls Julian has put up to protect himself aren't stopping Kenyon from wanting to get to know him better. But when Julian gives an interview on a podcast calling out Kenyon's playing, Kenyon feels betrayed and after seeing the footage he's more confused if football is something he still wants to do.
Here's why it wasn't my favorite. I never felt that connection with Julian. He just seemed all over the place and his inner monologue drove me crazy. I did enjoy the second half of the book when Julian started dropping some of the walls but I still didn't love him.
I still enjoyed the read and I am gutted that this is the last book in the series. I've loved going on this emotional ride and it's like saying goodbye to friends. (In my world, I'd be besties with the team. LOL)
I can't wait to see what Beth Bolden has in store for us next!
*Wicked Reads Review Team*
PLAYING DEEP is the fifth and (sadly) final installment in the Miami Piranhas series. It can be read as a stand alone but it shouldn't. You need to experience the past character's stories to truly appreciate this one.
Is this my favorite in the series? No
But did I still really enjoy it? Absolutely.
Kenyon Ellis is a quiet guy. He's kept to himself for the most part in the last two years on the Piranhas. But he needs some advice from his friends and teammates when he finds himself in a situation he never saw coming. He sneaks out during training to a dump of a bar he never expected to be hit on by the most gorgeous guy he's ever seen. A quick hookup in the bathroom leads to some confusion on the field the next day when Kenyon sees the guy hooked up with is a reporter. Sleeping with a reporter is definitely a terrible idea but Kenyon can't seem to stop. And the rules that set in place aren't helping that fact that Kenyon is falling hard for Julian. The walls Julian has put up to protect himself aren't stopping Kenyon from wanting to get to know him better. But when Julian gives an interview on a podcast calling out Kenyon's playing, Kenyon feels betrayed and after seeing the footage he's more confused if football is something he still wants to do.
Here's why it wasn't my favorite. I never felt that connection with Julian. He just seemed all over the place and his inner monologue drove me crazy. I did enjoy the second half of the book when Julian started dropping some of the walls but I still didn't love him.
I still enjoyed the read and I am gutted that this is the last book in the series. I've loved going on this emotional ride and it's like saying goodbye to friends. (In my world, I'd be besties with the team. LOL)
I can't wait to see what Beth Bolden has in store for us next!
*Wicked Reads Review Team*
April 24, 2023
3.5 stars for Kenyon & Julian's story
4.5 stars for all the Miami Piranhas
I really liked Kenyon & Julian but they took a bit to grow on me. Julian and his sabotaging is why. Once he came around to accepting the love they were so cute. I love how much we got all the other couples in this book. I am going to miss these guys.
I got emotional during Kenyon's speech. I really did get attached to all these people. This was a great last book in the series and I am excited to see that Micah is getting a book in the next series.
Highlights:
The date boxes finding their way into all the books
Drunk Julian
First date & note next morning
Tesoro
All the couples meeting Julian as the boyfriend at Hibiscus
“Look at Evans. Look at Harris and Crawford. Look at Chase. Jamie Wright and Neal Fisher. They changed everything. But I want you to look, because this isn’t a loss, not in the way you think.” Pax took a deep breath. “It takes more than one team to change an entire culture. It started with Colin O’Connor, who played for the Piranhas, first. It took him to be the first, and then it takes another, and another, and another. Maybe we weren’t the first, but we’re an important piece. A necessary piece. None of this continues if we didn’t come here and play the Riptide today. It hurts, it really hurts like fucking hell, that we lost. I’m not gonna lie about that, but we came here bruised—not beaten, but beaten—and we still gave it our all. When people talk about this game, that’s what they’re gonna talk about. That we went toe-to-toe with the NFL’s best team. And hey, guess what, it was one queer guy versus another queer guy, playing some of the best football they’ve ever seen. Maybe it changes one person’s mind. Maybe it changes a hundred. But those people matter. Every single goddamn one matters. It might be a cold comfort tonight, but it’s something I’m gonna remember for a long time. What we accomplished by coming here. By hanging tight with the heroes of our sport.”
4.5 stars for all the Miami Piranhas
I really liked Kenyon & Julian but they took a bit to grow on me. Julian and his sabotaging is why. Once he came around to accepting the love they were so cute. I love how much we got all the other couples in this book. I am going to miss these guys.
I got emotional during Kenyon's speech. I really did get attached to all these people. This was a great last book in the series and I am excited to see that Micah is getting a book in the next series.
Highlights:
The date boxes finding their way into all the books
Drunk Julian
First date & note next morning
Tesoro
All the couples meeting Julian as the boyfriend at Hibiscus
“Look at Evans. Look at Harris and Crawford. Look at Chase. Jamie Wright and Neal Fisher. They changed everything. But I want you to look, because this isn’t a loss, not in the way you think.” Pax took a deep breath. “It takes more than one team to change an entire culture. It started with Colin O’Connor, who played for the Piranhas, first. It took him to be the first, and then it takes another, and another, and another. Maybe we weren’t the first, but we’re an important piece. A necessary piece. None of this continues if we didn’t come here and play the Riptide today. It hurts, it really hurts like fucking hell, that we lost. I’m not gonna lie about that, but we came here bruised—not beaten, but beaten—and we still gave it our all. When people talk about this game, that’s what they’re gonna talk about. That we went toe-to-toe with the NFL’s best team. And hey, guess what, it was one queer guy versus another queer guy, playing some of the best football they’ve ever seen. Maybe it changes one person’s mind. Maybe it changes a hundred. But those people matter. Every single goddamn one matters. It might be a cold comfort tonight, but it’s something I’m gonna remember for a long time. What we accomplished by coming here. By hanging tight with the heroes of our sport.”
February 6, 2023
Ever since the first book in this series was released, I've been hooked. I was always impatiently waiting for the next one and I'm sad to see the boys go.
In this final book we go deeper into the life of Kenyon, the starting running back for the Piranhas. He's always been a bit of an enigma, kept himself a bit more aside and is playing mostly for his foundation. He likes to play, but he doesn't love to play like the others on his team. He gives his all but knows he doesn't need the sport like his teammates do.
Julian is a sports reporter who gets assigned to cover the games of the Piranhas. He's very outspoken, has always had to look out for himself being an orphan and doesn't want to give his heart to anyone.
After a hot encounter in a bar, where Julian has no idea of who Kenyon is, they meet again during a game. They start of on the wrong foot, but both men can't stay away from each other. When Kenyon sees the real Julian behind the walls he has built to protect himself, he decides to go all in and show him how good they can be together.
I thought Asa and Scott's book was my favorite in the series, but this one surely is a great contender. I loved how Kenyon didn't give up on Julian, even though the latter just kept on trying to find excuses to push him away. He kept on going back to show Julian he was worth every minute of Kenyons time and bit by bit Julian's walls broke down. I also loved how Julian was blunt, totally straightforward in calling out Kenyon's gameplay.
In short, I loved everything about this book and I'm sad to see this team go. Fortunately Ms Bolden has already promised us there will be a spin off. To say I'm looking forward to the first book in that new series is an understatement.
*I kindly received a copy of this book by the author via Bookfunnel and this is my honest review.*
In this final book we go deeper into the life of Kenyon, the starting running back for the Piranhas. He's always been a bit of an enigma, kept himself a bit more aside and is playing mostly for his foundation. He likes to play, but he doesn't love to play like the others on his team. He gives his all but knows he doesn't need the sport like his teammates do.
Julian is a sports reporter who gets assigned to cover the games of the Piranhas. He's very outspoken, has always had to look out for himself being an orphan and doesn't want to give his heart to anyone.
After a hot encounter in a bar, where Julian has no idea of who Kenyon is, they meet again during a game. They start of on the wrong foot, but both men can't stay away from each other. When Kenyon sees the real Julian behind the walls he has built to protect himself, he decides to go all in and show him how good they can be together.
I thought Asa and Scott's book was my favorite in the series, but this one surely is a great contender. I loved how Kenyon didn't give up on Julian, even though the latter just kept on trying to find excuses to push him away. He kept on going back to show Julian he was worth every minute of Kenyons time and bit by bit Julian's walls broke down. I also loved how Julian was blunt, totally straightforward in calling out Kenyon's gameplay.
In short, I loved everything about this book and I'm sad to see this team go. Fortunately Ms Bolden has already promised us there will be a spin off. To say I'm looking forward to the first book in that new series is an understatement.
*I kindly received a copy of this book by the author via Bookfunnel and this is my honest review.*
February 5, 2024
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beth Bolden has created a great series with the Piranhas series that has gotten better with each installment and in my opinion, the last book was the best.
I haven't seen much of Kenyon, who is the subject of this book, in the previous volumes. No wonder, because in addition to playing football, he is involved in a charitable organization.
Kenyon meets Julian in a bar and things get heated. But Kenyon doesn't know that Julian is a sports reporter and Julian doesn't recognize Kenyon. This comes as a shock the next day, but the two can't keep their hands off each other.
They are well aware of the risk they are taking. And the more they meet, the more it feels like a relationship, but the two are very good at fooling both themselves and each other.
Julian and Kenyon couldn't be more different. Their childhoods were very opposite and now they are on opposite sides, but they share a love of football.
Once you get to know Julian better, you understand him, but it takes a while and it was very frustrating.
I really liked Kenyon, he's likeable and the chemistry between them is palpable. But sometimes I would have liked to shake them both because they didn't see what was right in front of them.
The story was told in an entertaining way, it got emotional at times and I sometimes wanted to give Julian a hug. The ending was wonderful, I loved it. But I regret that this series has now come to an end. I was very happy to see beloved characters from the previous volumes here again.
As always, Darcy Stark did a fantastic job reading the audiobook. I loved the voices he chose for the male protagonists. I didn't quite like the choice of voice for Julian's boss, but that wasn't too bad as his performance was very entertaining and a pleasure to listen to.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beth Bolden has created a great series with the Piranhas series that has gotten better with each installment and in my opinion, the last book was the best.
I haven't seen much of Kenyon, who is the subject of this book, in the previous volumes. No wonder, because in addition to playing football, he is involved in a charitable organization.
Kenyon meets Julian in a bar and things get heated. But Kenyon doesn't know that Julian is a sports reporter and Julian doesn't recognize Kenyon. This comes as a shock the next day, but the two can't keep their hands off each other.
They are well aware of the risk they are taking. And the more they meet, the more it feels like a relationship, but the two are very good at fooling both themselves and each other.
Julian and Kenyon couldn't be more different. Their childhoods were very opposite and now they are on opposite sides, but they share a love of football.
Once you get to know Julian better, you understand him, but it takes a while and it was very frustrating.
I really liked Kenyon, he's likeable and the chemistry between them is palpable. But sometimes I would have liked to shake them both because they didn't see what was right in front of them.
The story was told in an entertaining way, it got emotional at times and I sometimes wanted to give Julian a hug. The ending was wonderful, I loved it. But I regret that this series has now come to an end. I was very happy to see beloved characters from the previous volumes here again.
As always, Darcy Stark did a fantastic job reading the audiobook. I loved the voices he chose for the male protagonists. I didn't quite like the choice of voice for Julian's boss, but that wasn't too bad as his performance was very entertaining and a pleasure to listen to.
February 19, 2023
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth book in the series, and I would recommend you read them in order to get the full goodness, but if you want to start here and retrace your steps, that's fine too! This definitely stands well on its own.
Kenyon cannot fight the temptation to take the preppy guy he meets in a bar out the back. He shouldn't have slipped out of the training camp for a drink, let alone for an encounter! The second comes back to bite him, when Julian turns out to be a journalist who will be on the Piranhas case all season. The sense of betrayal is deep, but actually Julian really did not know who he was ... and Julian hides a lot about himself in his choice of clothes and demeanour.
As we watch the football season unfold, we also get to see how their influence on each other, whilst pursuing a secret friends with benefits arrangement. It adds a level of complexity which neither need, and yet don't seem to want to avoid... until - well you need to read it for yourself to get the full story, but rest assured it is twisty, sexy and ends just how we want all such stories to end, with revelations to make the heart sing.
Another very good installment in this series. Thank you Beth Bolden!
This is the fifth book in the series, and I would recommend you read them in order to get the full goodness, but if you want to start here and retrace your steps, that's fine too! This definitely stands well on its own.
Kenyon cannot fight the temptation to take the preppy guy he meets in a bar out the back. He shouldn't have slipped out of the training camp for a drink, let alone for an encounter! The second comes back to bite him, when Julian turns out to be a journalist who will be on the Piranhas case all season. The sense of betrayal is deep, but actually Julian really did not know who he was ... and Julian hides a lot about himself in his choice of clothes and demeanour.
As we watch the football season unfold, we also get to see how their influence on each other, whilst pursuing a secret friends with benefits arrangement. It adds a level of complexity which neither need, and yet don't seem to want to avoid... until - well you need to read it for yourself to get the full story, but rest assured it is twisty, sexy and ends just how we want all such stories to end, with revelations to make the heart sing.
Another very good installment in this series. Thank you Beth Bolden!
February 23, 2023
This is the fifth book in the Miami Piranhas series and I recommend reading all of the books that proceed this one but it is not necessary to get the gist of this story, but there are a lot of secondary characters that are mentioned from previous books. Kenyon is a pro football player for the Piranhas in Miami and one night during summer training camp, he sneaks out to a bar and gets hit on by a gorgeous guy and they have a very satisfying hookup that leaves him wishing he could get the guys contact info. Julian is a sports reporter on a new assignment to cover the Miami Piranhas, and he surprisingly recognizes the hot running back as his hookup from the night before. Kenyon confronts Julian and sparks fly; they agree to continue to see each other in secret, but with the stipulation of no-strings. But what happens when they want to change the deal?
I loved this book. I have read all of the books in this series and it was so fun to see so many of the other characters and established couples that were developed in the previous books. I loved getting to see the other side of the “Stairwell Sneak-off” that was in Asa’s book and now in this book. Kenyon and Julian are such a sweet couple and they are blind to what is in front of them, They are made for each other. The football team is full of so many vibrant players and they are all just one big family, and that is so awesome. This book is well worth the read and I highly recommend this series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book. I have read all of the books in this series and it was so fun to see so many of the other characters and established couples that were developed in the previous books. I loved getting to see the other side of the “Stairwell Sneak-off” that was in Asa’s book and now in this book. Kenyon and Julian are such a sweet couple and they are blind to what is in front of them, They are made for each other. The football team is full of so many vibrant players and they are all just one big family, and that is so awesome. This book is well worth the read and I highly recommend this series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2024
Two different worlds (an audio review)
I’ll admit I wasn’t enamored with the last Beth Bolden I listened to, a number of years ago, but I’m always up for giving an author another shot. I’m so glad I did. I fell in love with Kenyon and Julian. Two unique men growing up in different circumstances. Kenyon with his loving family who’ve always supported him. Julian having none of that. Both men were dedicated to making their way in the world and, for both, that drive to succeed centers around football.
Kenyon’s a player. A football player. And he’s also gay and has dabbled with one-night stands. He’s not out, so no way is he going to do something that might jeopardize his career or the charity that means everything to him.
Julian’s a reporter. Reporting on Kenyon’s team. So a massive conflict of interest. Still, from the fist moment they meet, there’s something going on between the two of them. Neither man can deny it, but both try. Eventually, though, the pressure of the secrecy weighs on them.
Eventually things come to a head, and I have to say the dénouement was satisfying and I liked how things ended. Resolved. Worked.
As the story unfolds, it intersects with previous books, which I admit I haven’t read. No worry. Although the backstory would have been nice, and I plan to go back to the other books, I was never lost. Julian and Kenyon were the focus of the story – as they should be – and this was just a great listen.
I always enjoy Darcy Stark’s narration and he did a fantastic job with this book as well. Well worth a listen.
I’ll admit I wasn’t enamored with the last Beth Bolden I listened to, a number of years ago, but I’m always up for giving an author another shot. I’m so glad I did. I fell in love with Kenyon and Julian. Two unique men growing up in different circumstances. Kenyon with his loving family who’ve always supported him. Julian having none of that. Both men were dedicated to making their way in the world and, for both, that drive to succeed centers around football.
Kenyon’s a player. A football player. And he’s also gay and has dabbled with one-night stands. He’s not out, so no way is he going to do something that might jeopardize his career or the charity that means everything to him.
Julian’s a reporter. Reporting on Kenyon’s team. So a massive conflict of interest. Still, from the fist moment they meet, there’s something going on between the two of them. Neither man can deny it, but both try. Eventually, though, the pressure of the secrecy weighs on them.
Eventually things come to a head, and I have to say the dénouement was satisfying and I liked how things ended. Resolved. Worked.
As the story unfolds, it intersects with previous books, which I admit I haven’t read. No worry. Although the backstory would have been nice, and I plan to go back to the other books, I was never lost. Julian and Kenyon were the focus of the story – as they should be – and this was just a great listen.
I always enjoy Darcy Stark’s narration and he did a fantastic job with this book as well. Well worth a listen.
February 15, 2023
Wow.. Beth, just wow... You truly outdid yourself with this book. I mean what a way to close out a terrific series. I was excited for Kenyon's story, but I'm also sad cause I know it's the last one in this universe. But oh what a bittersweet ending.
Kenyon has always been the mysterious one on the team, everyone thinks because he has a foundation he has his life put together. He has a plan. In a way that's true but yet it's not. When he falls into bed; (or shall I say a bathroom) with a reporter he knows he messed up. And yet he can't stay away from Julian. He doesn't want to, know matter how many rules he may be breaking, he can't resist Julian.
Julian is a sports reporter, he's new to Miami when he hooks up with Kenyon. Kenyon who's name was Ellis. Who was a random guy. Not a football player, definitely not that.
I really enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship, it's a give and take; a push and pull. Julian has a really tough shell, one that Kenyon kept trying to get through. He was determined to get to know the gorgeous reporter who was smart and snarky, and he was going to be interested in more with Julian whether he liked it or not. This started off as... Convenient hookups for the both of these guys? They weren't necessarily friends but they weren't strangers either. Then their relationship slowly started developing, to the point where it snuck up on the both of them. I'm going to be honest, at times Julian's character rubbed me the wrong way, but overall he redeemed himself.
The date boxes are so iconic to this series now that I look forward to those scenes, I think they just add something really special and unique to these books. And reading about how they made 'the worst pizza they've ever tasted was hilarious!
Something that really stands out for me is getting to see all of the past characters in this book. I love when an author can bring back those characters we've grown attached to. Beth... It's been a really great journey. Although how could you make me shed tears? This was a fantastic way to end a truly remarkable series.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
Kenyon has always been the mysterious one on the team, everyone thinks because he has a foundation he has his life put together. He has a plan. In a way that's true but yet it's not. When he falls into bed; (or shall I say a bathroom) with a reporter he knows he messed up. And yet he can't stay away from Julian. He doesn't want to, know matter how many rules he may be breaking, he can't resist Julian.
Julian is a sports reporter, he's new to Miami when he hooks up with Kenyon. Kenyon who's name was Ellis. Who was a random guy. Not a football player, definitely not that.
I really enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship, it's a give and take; a push and pull. Julian has a really tough shell, one that Kenyon kept trying to get through. He was determined to get to know the gorgeous reporter who was smart and snarky, and he was going to be interested in more with Julian whether he liked it or not. This started off as... Convenient hookups for the both of these guys? They weren't necessarily friends but they weren't strangers either. Then their relationship slowly started developing, to the point where it snuck up on the both of them. I'm going to be honest, at times Julian's character rubbed me the wrong way, but overall he redeemed himself.
The date boxes are so iconic to this series now that I look forward to those scenes, I think they just add something really special and unique to these books. And reading about how they made 'the worst pizza they've ever tasted was hilarious!
Something that really stands out for me is getting to see all of the past characters in this book. I love when an author can bring back those characters we've grown attached to. Beth... It's been a really great journey. Although how could you make me shed tears? This was a fantastic way to end a truly remarkable series.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
February 12, 2023
I’ll start by pointing out here that this is part of a series, and while the specific romance is contained to this story, reading previous books will give you context on many of the characters and the world they inhabit. (They’re also, like this book, a nice balance of sportsball, chemistry, and feels). Here we get Kenyon and Julian’s story. Kenyon was, for me, easy to invest in and care about. I enjoyed learning more about him, and respected his commitment to things and people he cares for. Julian was a harder sell. Julian is a hard character to like, at least initially, because he’s very, very good at maintaining his prickly outer defenses— I didn’t see any meaningful glimmers of the person behind the porcupine until more than halfway through the story, and trust me, I was looking— I definitely *wanted* to like him, but it wasn’t, at the start, easy. He did, however, grow on me in later stages of the story, and I think that was part of the point— to have him come into his own as he realizes that he has, in Kenyon, someone who is willing to value him and make him a priority. Overall, while I wish there’d been a bit more balance in the transition from chemistry to feelings, I enjoyed this book and was happy to see the HEA. 4.5 stars
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 4, 2024
I made it to the end of the Piranhas series in my read of this world. Which by the way I’ve been going backwards on after I accidentally read the Condors series first. Oh well! So in this final book we have Julian and Kenyon. And these two are something else! What starts as strangers hooking up, turns into a lot more. Especially when the next day they discover who the other person was. Julian a reporter recently moved to Miami to cover the Piranhas and Kenyon, a player on the Piranhas. A reporter and a player hooking up is probably not the smartest idea but they find they can’t keep away from one another. So they’ll hook up, no strings attached, for the next several months. Then things really change when feelings develop so strongly, that ignoring them isn’t an option anymore. But it won’t be easy. Kenyon may be willing to fight for Julian and be more but convincing Julian is a whole other ball game. Julian has kept himself closed off for a long time. He’s never truly had anyone in his life who cared and who was there. Until Kenyon. And it scares him. A lot. And he is sure that Kenyon will one day easily discard him. But that’s not who Kenyon is and he is willing to prove it. No matter what curve balls Julian throws him along the way. Loved these two! Nothing was easy bout their relationship, but they showed that when you love someone you fight for them. A great end to these guys! And I’m glad I still have others in this world to read!
February 16, 2024
Performance: 4 Stars
Story: 4 Stars
Playing Deep begins with a short-lived enemies-to-lovers vibe and quickly morphs into a forbidden-ish no-strings romance (until it sprouts feels) between a pro football player and a sports reporter.
Kenyon and Julian make a fiery couple and their relationship is not without some angst. I'd only read the first two books in this series beforehand, and this story felt a little more emotion-heavy than those. It's far from an angst-fest, though, just two guys trying to sort through deepening feelings they hadn't expected to develop for each other.
Julian is rather prickly, arrogant, and closed off (or at least tries to be, for reasons), and Kenyon is understanding and loving without being a pushover. I was actually a little surprised how this book is very much a hurt/comfort romance (one of my favorite tropes).
I'm glad the author elected to stick with the same narrator throughout the series. I'm a fan of Darcy Stark (his delivery style in particular is unique, in a good way) and I enjoyed his performance here.
This story was easy to follow as a standalone, but it being the series finale, I think I would've benefited from having read/listened to all the books to more fully appreciate the nuances. I received a free review copy of this audio book and have left this honest review voluntarily.
Story: 4 Stars
Playing Deep begins with a short-lived enemies-to-lovers vibe and quickly morphs into a forbidden-ish no-strings romance (until it sprouts feels) between a pro football player and a sports reporter.
Kenyon and Julian make a fiery couple and their relationship is not without some angst. I'd only read the first two books in this series beforehand, and this story felt a little more emotion-heavy than those. It's far from an angst-fest, though, just two guys trying to sort through deepening feelings they hadn't expected to develop for each other.
Julian is rather prickly, arrogant, and closed off (or at least tries to be, for reasons), and Kenyon is understanding and loving without being a pushover. I was actually a little surprised how this book is very much a hurt/comfort romance (one of my favorite tropes).
I'm glad the author elected to stick with the same narrator throughout the series. I'm a fan of Darcy Stark (his delivery style in particular is unique, in a good way) and I enjoyed his performance here.
This story was easy to follow as a standalone, but it being the series finale, I think I would've benefited from having read/listened to all the books to more fully appreciate the nuances. I received a free review copy of this audio book and have left this honest review voluntarily.
February 5, 2023
It always feels like mourning when a series ends. This was an exceptional series and I will miss the guys so much but as mentioned at the end of the book there is a new team starting. This one had deep emotions and we are kept in the dark about Julien for a long time so it is hard to figure out his full character. Kenyan is a solid character and sure of his identity; both men are 'out' so the sex starts early on. The scenes are sexy and more intimate than both men realise. There is a lot of sexual chemistry between both MC's and the smouldering stare off's are both hot and amusing. I loved their dynamic together, it felt natural but the immediate and desperate need to be intimate gave the book pace and hyped up the sexual chemistry. Until we find out more on the background of Julien it is hard to understand what is holding him back from admitting his feelings; which is confusing and at times, tedious. We got to see teammates and past characters and it was great to see how their relationships had progressed. It is a real team book, which we needed in order to end this series. It's a 5 star read and I will miss the Piranhas, which is a great indication of how good the series as a whole is. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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