Member Reviews
Loved the first book, Fraternized and was looking forward to Miller's story, but it fell flat for me. I was actually more interested in Jax and that's sort of sad. The character that I loved in book one was missing, I didn't feel the relationship between Miller and Kinsey, and am so disappointed. Although I didn't enjoy this book as much as it's predecessor, I would continue to pick up the series if it continues.
RVD does it again! I so enjoyed this book.
I haven't read the first book, the story of Em and Sanchez, but I like Miller a lot! I'm glad he found his own happy ending. Kinsey and him together are so fun to read. They're just so great together that I think I don't want to read about Em and Sanchez and Miller...Miller should be with Kinsey only. That's it.
Kinsey is great too. Makes you wish to be her friend. She and Miller have their issues and I'm frankly surprised Miller was the first to make the choice, but it just makes me love him more. Happy sigh.
Interesting too is the side story of Jax but I think his story with Hayley deserves it's own book...or novella. But now that Jax is (sorta) settled, who's next?
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the copy
Infraction is another great rom-com in the Players Game series. Miller Quinton is flirty, hot, funny, cocky and everything Kinsey Romanov should stay away from. But they’ve shared a night that they can’t forget. What follows is a sweet take on the forbidden, friendship, family, forgiveness, and love. There’s awesome banter, a little heartache, Jax, Emerson and Grant and just a really nice story to sink into and smile.
Infraction is my first read by R.V.D. although, as an author, she has been on my t.b.r. list for ages.
Although not the first in the series, it is not necessary to have read what comes before in order to delve into Infraction. Sports romance is one of my favoured genre and this did not disappoint.
Despite the backdrop of sports, this novel is about love, loss and the determination to thrive despite the odds.
Miller and Kinsey have both suffered at the hands of a lover. Miller is especially reluctant to explore another relationship as he can't cope with loss that he is sure, will follow. He is also the team mate of Kinsey's brother Jax.
Jax is over protective of his sister and no-one, especially any of his team mates, is good enough for her.
In order to try and prevent Kinsey from re-connecting with an abusive ex, Jax engineers a fake relationship with Miller but little does he know that Miller and Kinsey have already connected, intimately!
When Jax and Kinsey's father decides to stop his chemotherapy treatment, Miller is reminded of the loss of his mother and is unable to support Kinsey. However, before long Miller is once again at Kinsey's side.
This is a quick, easy read that, at times, makes you laugh out loud but it also leads the reader through a full range of emotions and at one point I couldn't read the words on the page for tears.
What a way to be introduced to a new author! I'll certainly be reading more from R.V.D.
Although this is being marketed as book number two in a series, you do not need to have read the first book in order for this one to make sense. There is of course, some cross-over between the characters, but this story focuses on Miller and Kinsley (and to a lesser extent her brother Jax and her friend Harley).
Speaking just on this story... *sigh*
Ok so on the whole I enjoyed this one more than I did the first in the series. I enjoyed the playful banter between the characters, I enjoyed the complicated relationships between all of the characters, and I enjoyed seeing the brotherhood that exists between the players. The fact that we also got to see things from Jax's perspective (and his introduction to Hayley) added another layer to this story. I had such high hopes this was going to be a 4 or 5 star read.
AND THEN.... I don't know what happened. I have read A LOT of Rachel's books, and for the most part, I've loved a lot of them. She has been in fact one of my favorite authors. However, certain aspects of this story were so disgustingly inappropriate, not to mention tacky, that I had to drop some stars off.
**********BEGIN SPOILERS********
Don't get me wrong, I am all for a well a sex scene when it adds to the overall plot. Heck, I even enjoy the occasional sex scene when it DOESN'T add to the overall plot. But to take two characters, place them at a HOSPITAL PARTY for SICK children/teenagers and think its ok to have said characters sneak off, hide behind a large potted plant and proceed to make out, touch and basically dry hump to orgasm? It begs the question just who thought that was a good idea.
These would be the same two characters, who while visiting her parents (did I mention her father is dying), had a bit of a falling out. They quickly reconciled however, to the point they decided to have sex in his car. While parked across the street from her parents house. Tacky much?
**********END SPOILERS********
All things considered, I believe this story may still appeal to those who enjoy sports romances, or romantic comedies in general. I would read more from this author.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Book two in Van Dyken's <i>Players Game</i> series was one I was greatly anticipating because of the delightful match-up between Kinsey, the overprotected firecracker sister of the QB, and Miller, the third part of book one's triangle who obviously did not get his happily ever after. But where the set-up, and the characters, in the first installment were delightful and fun, in INFRACTION the story itself kinda felt loosely strung together and just all over the place, and the characters went from being charming to almost manic.
<i>The guy literally told me that he would poison any guy from the team who dated her, and when I called his bluff, he showed me the search history on his phone for graphic ways to get away with murder. The guy was either psychotic or just really took his sister's sex life way too seriously -- or both.</i>
I still don't think I'm really used to Van Dyken's style. I don't know if it's just for this particular series or in general but one of my pet peeves in books is poor transitioning. Whether that be scenes or actions and it happened a lot. In addition the story felt a little jumbly and jumped around a lot and wasn't helped by one too many conflicts and emotional elements that quickly became overwhelming to the point that halfway through I just didn't really care anymore.
"<i>I'm moving out.</i>"
"<b>What? Over this? Over me protecting you?</b>"
"<i>That's all you do! You're an overbearing pain in my ass! How about you focus on living your own life, instead of trying to keep me from living mine!</i>"
And that lack of caring is a damn shame because there was one emotional moment in particular that was really beautiful, really well done, and really hit home for me. But there was just too much in and around it; too much to solve, too much to overcome, too much to reveal. Had everything been pared down a bit, and had we been given the time to focus on one or two issues instead of four or five, it would've made more of an impact, I think.
"<i>She wouldn't.. would she?</i>"
"<b>I may have encouraged all sexual advances. You were the one who said he needed to get laid.</b>"
"<i>Not during dinner!</i>"
As for the chemistry and connection, sadly, that was lacking, too. Because there was just too much distraction with a secondary love plot, not to mention the flip flopping with Miller due to his own emotional baggage, for me to believe in them. There were too many random jokes slipped in, too much of that over the top silliness from book one but without a strong enough foundation to balance it out like the first time. And the weirdly glossed over sex scenes didn't do it for me either. They felt as out of focus as the relationships themselves.
"<i>What relationship doesn't need a little spice?</i>"
"<b>A little spice is a sex shop. Jax's version of spice is a machete.</b>"
I don't know where the series is going after this, or if this was the last one, but instead of being excited for more, I would hesitate to read on at this juncture. I haven't yet written this author off, I still intend to try her other series, but unfortunately my high hopes for INFRACTION just didn't pan out.
2.5 "you make me sound like a psychopath / if the blood-caked stiletto fits.." stars
A story that stuck with me! Flirty, fun and wow! I had a goofy grin the whole time!
I love Miller and Kensie! I so wanted him to get his HEA in the first book and the cameo with Sanchez are hilarious! Just enough angst to keep you guessing and a whole lot of loving fun and hottie football gods!
A must read after Fraternize! She's off limits, until the brother that made her off limits decides that Miller and Kinsey should "fake date". These two are so in tune with each other, their chemistry sizzles, it was frustrating that they just didn't given into the inevitable right away, but I guess where's the fun in that. Their teasing "friend" banter was definitely a lot of fun to read, and then there's the banter between the guys, no words, laughed so hard, I cried! Also cried some sad tears and got serious chills at one point. Loved the chapters from Jax's point of view too!
I love Rachel's books. There's not many I haven't liked or I've felt fell short. She's one of those authors that just 'gets me' and what I like to read. So when she has something new generally it goes on my list to be read straight away. I loved the Fraternize book (First one in the Players Game series) and added Infraction straight away. I think I even wrote in my review of Fraternize I hoped it would be Miller's turn in the next book. So when I saw this on NG I requested it straight away.
I really can't go into the story of this one. I don't want to give ANYTHING away as there is so much that happens, so many things you find out about the characters.... I just won't spoil it for you. I would NEVER do that. I will say this. I loved this book. I loved Miller anyway. I really felt for him at the end of Fraternize and am glad that we get to hear his story with Kins. I loved that this was also told from Jax's point of view (Kin's brother). This made the book a more indepth read, I learnt more about their relationships and it meant the book was more enjoyable as a whole. The ending worked, I was happy, that was until I looked to see if there was a book 3 <taps foot>. <coughs> Hello?! Book 3? You see yes there is a good ending, one that works and keeps everyone happy. But I am sitting here like, 'Well where is Jax's story?' I need this. So whether Rachel does a novella, another book for Jax or just leaves it who knows. I will say I would like more.
If you like a RVD book, then this one is a yes from me I think you will like it. If you like a football (Its not huge on the football) new adult romance, then yes I recommend this. Hell, I recommend this anyway. Infraction gets a solid 4 stars from me and these 2 books are on my 'physical copy' list as I really enjoyed them - which should tell you how good I think they are.
I love book of sports novels, and this was a good thing. I actually found myself enjoying this book, which unfortunately hasn't happened with the first.Infraction is a mixture of a book that brings emotional themes, serious, doses of humor and a couple that kept me entertained.A book that served the purpose and entertained me. I don't know if we're going to have more books in this series, but I wouldn't mind winning an entire book of Jax, overprotective brother and Harley.
The latest in Rachel Van Dyken’s Players Game series is a romantic comedy with sorrowful undertones. I laughed so hard that I cried, and as the story progressed and I cried for the characters that became friends and went through difficult times. In the end though I had a huge smile that signaled a great read.
When Miller Quinton accepted his best friend and teammate’s request to fake date his little sister, he did so with some personal doubt because he’s already capitulated to her once. Pretending to be in a relationship with her to keep her abusive ex at bay won’t be a problem. The tricky part will be to feign detachment for the sake of his best, but mostly his damaged heart.
Kinsey’s life is coming undone. Her overprotective brother Jax, not only revealed the fact that their father has cancer but that her ex is being considered to join the team. Going along with the rouse to date Miller to keep her brother from worrying is a bad idea because she’d already fallen for Miller once without anyone knowing. Can she risk her heart a second time while hiding her feelings?
I’ve read many of Van Dyken’s creations and have enjoyed all of them. Infraction is a wonderful brew of fun and sexiness, heartbreak and joy that produced a great deal of smiles, laughs along with some tears I didn’t expect but certainly appreciated because nothing beats that great combo: laugh, cry, smile and swoon.
There were many elements I liked about this story. Jax and Kinsey’s mom and dad, and Miller’s grandma were a lovely example of what parents should be like, loving, understanding and with a sense of humor. The friendship between the players was also showcased. And then there were the main characters and Jax. Yes, Jax got several chapters with his own point of view which were not only insightful to the man with the hero complex but also a great guy who deserved his own love story. I suspect we’ll be getting more of Jax and Harley in future installments or a story of their own.
Kinsey and Miller were already friends but they blurred that line one night in Vegas several backs prior. The connection and attraction is still there though and being forced to be in close proximity to each other on a daily basis only makes matters worse. Both were likeable characters I was happily on board with. I loved the push and pull between the, as well as their witty banter and all the heat between them.
Rachel Van Dyken creates a story as heartfelt as it is hilarious, a tribute to living life at its fullest. Infraction is book #2 of the Players Game series. It is standalone contemporary sports romance. It’s a friends to lovers, forbidden brother-best-friend story. Told from several points of view and has a happy ending.
This series has officially moved from “books I like and want some more” to “my favs, I hope these authors write a little quicker” 💖
This book made me cry, laugh, show signs of extreme irritation, swoon, cry some more and grin like the cat that ate the canary. 😂
There is nothing in this world as precious as a sibling bond, and Rachel does an amazing job showing the more private side of that relationship. With all the ups and downs a family can face, the author wraps this story into a heart breaking bow and gives us a wonderful ending!
Infraction was so good! I wasn't sure it would be because I didn't enjoy the first book in the series, Fraternize, but I was pleased to fall in love with it.
In Infraction, Miller and Kinsey are both shocked when her older brother and Miller's teammate Jax force them to be in a fake relationship. Jax doesn't know about their previous hookup, and if he did, Miller would be dead. Jax trusts Miller to keep his hands to himself, but that's easier said than done. There's still chemistry between Miller and Kinsey that can't be denied.
This book was written from three points of view: Miller, Kinsey, and Jax's. I loved this dynamic. It gave insight into Miller and Kinsey's relationship, but also both of their relationships with Jax. The only thing that would have made it even better would have been if Harley's point of view would have been included.
I also really liked Miller and Kinsey's relationship. There were so many great ah-ha moments. They learned more from each other than I expected. I loved what brought them even closer together. Infraction was such a special relationship story.
Overall, Infraction was a great sports romance. I found it to be a stronger book than the first one in the series. I liked it so much more.
Infraction
By: Rachel Van Dyken
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Emotionally draining with a HEA!!!
WOWED AGAIN...Rachel Van Dyken did it again in this sassy, flirty, fun and emotionally draining book. I went into this book one day after reading Fraternized. Technically you don’t have to read book one to understand but it will make it so much better if you do. It was definitely a roller coaster ride an so is Fractured. Below is the authors blurb because her words are better than I could have done.
Authors Blurb: Pro footballer Miller Quinton would do anything for his best friend and teammate—including “fake dating” his friend’s sister. What no one knows is that seven months ago in Vegas, Miller and Kinsey did a whole lot more than just kiss. Miller knows that this cheerleader is off-limits to him and any guy on the team. Still, he can’t stop himself.
Kinsey’s whole world is on the verge of crumbling. Her dad has cancer. Her overprotective brother is falling apart. Dating Miller may be a fake-out, but he’s the one guy who can make her forget about everything—including all the reasons she stayed away from football players. With each heated moment, Miller feels more like a safe place…even though he’s not safe at all.
Now temptation is testing every rule in the game of love. But how long can they go on playing when winning is a harder goal than either of them imagined?
I really enjoyed this book and it kept me engrossed throughout. I really loved the characters and the way they interacted with each other. This is a intense, gut wrenching, sad, that is also a fun, hot, romantic must read book and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks you Netgally for letting me read and review.
Another winner! I adore this series, and this second installment was just as good as the first. I was excited to see Miller get his story. There was a lot going on in this book, plenty of secrets, a good amount of pain and suffering, and a horrible ex, but somehow it all worked together so well to form an emotional and believable romance. And yes, these books certainly have their snarky, funny moments, but I feel like these characters and their stories are more fully formed and "real" than a lot of the sports romances or rom coms I seem to,pick up. Definitely looking forward to the next one!
Holla! Are you ready for some FOOTBALL? Heck yes! Meet Miller Quinton and fall head-over-heels in love! At least thats what I did! Hey Kinsey! Can I have him for a bit? Pleasssseee! Pleasssssseeee!
"...he was like an emotional terrorist who bombed your heart only to tell you that you'd have to leave the country to find a hospital big enough to fix it!"
Kinsey and Miller are the best couple.
They made me laugh - so hard!
I may have even snorted.
There was angst... because there always is.
"Living? That will always be the hardest thing you will ever do." <--- Thank you Rachel for the reminder. It may be the hardest thing I'll ever do, but it's the best thing I'll ever do. Living is how we receive our blessings.
This may be a book about football and falling in love, but like all of Rachel Van Dyken's books, she teaches us all about life, love and lessons. I always want to be a better person after reading one of her books and Infraction is no different.
5 Lesson-Filled Stars for Infraction
THEY ARE BACK!!!
YES!!!
I missed the gang in the Players Game series!!!
Two words… Grant Sanchez!!!
If you have read Fraternize, then you know what I am talking about!!!
*** WARNING ***
In my opinion, Infraction should not be read as a standalone. You will not fully appreciate Infraction. The entire gang is back and their stories influence Quinton Miller & Kinsey Rominov’s story.
Quinton Miller… His is heart is a bit bruised when Grant & Emmerson get engaged. But if you read Fraternize, then you know that there is a friendship of sorts that develops between Quinton & Kinsey. But one night in Vegas changes everything for them…
“He’s the chicken to my waffle…”
~ Rachel Van Dyken, Infraction (Players Game #2)
Rachel did an amazing job with Miller & Kinsey’s story. I laughed and cried. It was the perfect balance of comedy and romance. This entire series just hit a sweet spot for me.
“A guy could get addicted to your kisses…”
~ Rachel Van Dyken, Infraction (Players Game #2)
I also fell in love with Kinsey’s brother, Jax. The relationship that they have was so sweet. I wanted to wring Jax’s neck and kiss him all at the same time. The growth that they both had during this book was perfect.
I only have this to say… READ THIS SERIES!!! You will thank me!!
Rachel, thank you for allowing me to fall in love with your characters. Please, please do not let this be the end of the Players Game series!!! I need more!!! They touched me. Especially Jax & Kinsley’s dad. You killed me (in a good way). Thank you again!
#ChickenWaffle #Waffle #Chicken #SpeedMakesMeFeelBetter #AndersonDickheadHarris #WaffleCakes #HugTime #JaxRomonov #Pink #OneKiss #LittleWaffle #NoMoreRunning #IveGotYou #CaptinAmerica #HeartOfALion #Cookies #Whiskey #ChocolateChipCookies
I was looking forward to Miller and Kinsey's story, and Rachel Van Dyken did not disappoint. Miller was such a sweetheart, and I enjoyed Kinsey's sass. My only complaint was Jax. I would have preferred POVs from just the main two main characters. His chapters took away from the main story for me. I also felt that his protectiveness over Kinsey was over the top, even after everything was explained. His character aside, this was a fun read with a sweet and emotional ending.
5 Stars! Rachel VanDyken does it again with this new novel. It had all the emotions: you will laugh, cry, and cheer on this group of characters. Definitely recommend to anyone who loves a good romantic story with laughs and life lessons.
*Novel generously provided by Netgalley*
After reading Fraternize I didn't think this series could get any better, but boy was I wrong. In Infraction we get to delve into the forbidden romance between Kinsey and Miller, and their relationship was one I will be re-reading quite a lot.
Kinsey and Miller were amazing to read about and I loved their friendly back and forth with one another. Theirs wasn't a super angsty read which I really liked, instead we got to see the funny and witty banter between them that had me cracking a smile multiple times. It was just a really fun book to read even though there were times it had me reaching for the tissues. Those funny moments made the sad ones worth it and I really liked that there was a good balance between the two.
I also loved that we got the bonus of a little side romance between Jax and Harley. I usually wouldn't be a fan of someone else getting so many POV's but this author of course wrote it so well that Jax's POV blended perfectly with Kinsey and Miller's and it actually added a lot to the overall story.
Bottom line, if your a fan of the brother-best-friend trope like I am then this is your next book. I would even say that you could read it as a standalone if you weren't easily curious about side characters that are mentioned in books.