Yallill this series is just so good! I love when the second book is just as amazing as the first, and that definitely is the case with Playing Games and The Learning Curve.
"If subjected to this level of swoon for a prolonged period of time, how long does it take to fall in love?"
Blake Boden is the star quarterback at Dickson
University and no stranger to girl fawning all over him.
When he meets Lexi Winslow, it's love at first sight when she is unaffected by his charm and social status.
He spends the better part of a year pining for her attention.
Lexi doesn't do emotions. She is driven by research and facts only. When Blake starts inserting himself in her life she creates a research experiment to see if she should give him a chance. She tells herself it is purely research as she spends more time with him.
I absolutely adored Lexi and her drive for research and no nonsense attitude. The banter between Lexi's facts only personality compared to Blake's complete opposite golden retriever vibes was so fun. This story highlights the struggles of neurodivergence, but also that love conquers all. There were times I laughed out loud, swoon worthy moments and many instances of heartfelt emotions - this book had it all!
Secret Dating
Neurodivergent FMC
Sports Romance
He Falls First
Opposites Attract
He Delivers Food

There is nothing better than a book that brings in the next generation from a previous series. I love revisiting old characters and seeing their children grown into adulthood.

Lexi (daughter/step-daughter of Winnie and Wes from Scoring the Billionaire and Dr Nick Raines from Dr OB) is a highly intelligent, neurodivergent 25 year old in the midst of completing her doctorate. She is being pursued by 22 year old QB Blake relentlessly. His charm and her bluntness are perfect combination for fantastic banter.

Playing Games will make you swoon, laugh and definitely cry a little. I look forward to the next book with Ace and Julia.

Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

4 stars ⭐️ This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. I highly recommended reading the first book too! I did not want to put this book down because the chemistry between Lexi and Blake is just that good!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Max Monroe for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

5 stars ⭐️

First of all, big thanks to Max & Monroe and NetGalley for sending me this incredible arc!

When they send me this book I actually hadn't read Learning Curve so OF COURSE I needed to read it first before beginning Playing Games.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! I loved so much the contrast of Lexi and Blake and OMG THEIR CHEMISTRY🤯🔥. At first Lexi really got me mad sometimes because HOW CAN YOU NOT THROW YOURSELF AT BLAKE BOLDEN ALL THE TIME?! But then I really started to understand her and the way her mind worked (she got me laughing out loud with her bluntness sometimes), i thought it was so real and relatable. With Blake I have no words, there's nothing I love more than a determined, charming, golden boy like him. I loved the way the story was unfolded and I thought it was really well balanced with the spicy scenes and the moments of vulnerability.

Can't wait for the story of Ace and Julia (I'M IMPACIENT!!)
Again big thanks to Max & Monroe and NetGalley for the arc!

I was so excited for the second book in this series! I really enjoyed the first one and loved all the characters. Could not wait for Lexi and Blake's story and it did not disappoint at all. I would recommend reading the first book in the series first for background but you don't have to; you'll just get more of the story. I am loving Max Monroe's work - great writing style, excellent stories and the humor keeps you laughing but also their book gives you all the feels.

Blake knew from the moment he saw Lexi that she was meant to be his. He's the big quarterback on campus and is used to having everyone fall at his feet but definitely not Lexi. Lexi is a bit older and is neurodivergent....so always the smartest one in the room. She definitely has some trouble with emotions as everything for her is more black and white. And in her mind, her and Blake make no sense and therefore should not even be a consideration. But Blake is nothing if not persistent and a fighter.

This is an amazing journey for these two as Blake opens up his heart and Lexi learns a lot about dealing with things she can't control. Overall an excellent read and would highly recommend. Plus you get to see Finn, Scottie, Ace and Julia again and it is all fun.

Playing Games is a classic college sports romance novel that I could not put down. Lexi Lou Winslow is right at the end of her college dissertation, and the last thing she needs is a distraction. Enter Dickson University’s quarterback Blake Boden. Blake has been in hot pursuit of Lexi since they first met, but Lexi doesn’t do love. Blake Boden sure does love a challenge; after all, what's the point in playing if you aren't playing to win?

This is my first book by Max Monroe, and it certainly won’t be the last! While it seemed like there were a lot of callbacks to previous books, it did not hinder the main plot. If anything, it made me want to go back and read previous books!

Onto Lexi and Blake’s story, I loved seeing a neurodiverse main character, and I appreciated Lexi's portrayal. Blake is such a top-tier book boyfriend! Not only is he so understanding, but he respects Lexi’s boundaries, even if it hurts him in the process. He puts her first and puts so much effort into the relationship. I just wish Lexi put forth a little more effort. Overall, I loved it and can’t wait to read Ace and Julia’s book!

A special thanks to NetGalley for the copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you for giving me an ARC copy of this book! I loved the first book in this series and the second one was even better! I loved how the story developed. It didn’t move at a slow pace but kept me on my toes and wanting more!

This was my first read by the authors and while it took a while to get into it, I was definitely invested and wanting to find out how things would end up between these two. It did standalone fairly well but I found the extended family and friend relationships a little hard to keep straight. I'm guessing these are all from previous books so would make more sense if you had read the previous series/books. Perhaps a list somewhere would help? I will definitely read Finn and Scottie's book as I have it already and will definitely think about adding the earlier series to my TBR.

The journey the characters went on was interesting and I liked the writing. It flowed well and was easy to read. It did feel quite like Lexi initially, a little clinical, so I think that's why it took me a while to get fully into the book, but I did find I was moved to tears at one point as well. Lexi was a hard heroine to connect to but I got there in the end, as did she. Blake was just such a cinnamon roll/golden retriever though! So patient and hooked on her from the start which I loved. I can't speak to the accuracy of the autism/neurodivergent rep as that isn't my life experience. But the representation is important and welcome so this was an enjoyable read overall.

I was excited to read Blake and Lexi’s story. Blake has had a crush on Lexi for awhile. And she doesn’t give the star quarterback anything other a passing glance. Blake doesn’t let that deter him. Blake starts learning Lexi’s quirks and giving her the space she needs and being patient. Lexi has had a hard time recognizing feelings. But she starts to realize that she has feelings for Blake. I enjoyed Blake and Lexi’s story it was an entertaining and enjoyable read!

Such a great story to introduce me to Max Monroe’s books.

It is a prequel to the Dickerson University Series which I will now be reading for sure.

Lexi and Blake are an amazing couple, so perfect together.
This book had me in all the feels while laughing along the way.

Blake falls first and hard. This is a favorite trope of mine. He’s lusting after Lexi and refuses to give up. He’s the football star quarterback. He can get any girl he wants, except Lexi. She is so focused on her dissertation and finishing college that she doesn’t pay attention to much else. She has decided though she wants to break out of her shell and start living life.

Blake is her answer. He is supportive and patient with Lexi as she builds up walls to keep him out. He does not give up.
This story has funny parts, angsty, a golden retriever MMC, opposites attach, and secret dating what more could you ask for?

The characters are loveable and captivating. Highly recommended book! I hope it comes to audio it is one I would listen to!

This is another book by Max Monroe that I just loved reading!

I love a good opposites-attract story. It always makes the story much more captivating for me. Lexi and Blake were just perfect for each other. They each brought out the best in each in other and it had me rooting for them the entire time. I literally could not stop reading and was entirely hooked on them.


This is definitely a must-read book for fans of sports romance! I can't wait to read more from Max Monroe.


Thank you Max Monroe for the free copy of Playing Games.

Playing Games is the highly anticipated second book in the Dickson University series, and it’s finally giving us an inside look at the brilliant, witty, and complex Lexi Winslow. If you loved the sharp banter, sizzling chemistry, and slow-burn romance of the first book (or really any of Max Monroe's books), this sequel takes it all to the next level.

At the core of the story is Lexi, a neurodivergent woman who prides herself on her logic, level-headedness, and razor-sharp intellect. She's used to being in control - except when it comes to matters of the heart.

Then enters Blake Boden, Dickson University’s star quarterback - handsome, confident, and full of surprises. To Lexi, Blake is an enigma, and his relentless pursuit of her attention leaves her both frustrated and intrigued. As she tries to dissect her growing attraction to him, Blake pushes her to rethink everything she believes about love, chemistry, and emotions.

What makes this book so captivating is the back-and-forth tension between the two characters. Blake’s irresistible charm is undeniable, but Lexi isn’t the type to fall easily for anyone. Her approach to love is rooted in logic and science - she’s convinced her feelings are simply chemical reactions, nothing more. But as she spends more time with Blake, the lines between logic and emotion blur, complicating her once-clear perspective.

The beauty of Playing Games lies not only in its sizzling chemistry but in the personal growth of both characters. Blake challenges Lexi’s tightly held beliefs, and slowly, her walls begin to crumble. What begins as playful back-and-forth soon reveals layers of vulnerability, making their evolving relationship feel deeply real despite the humor and over-the-top moments.

Max Monroe excels at pacing this slow-burn romance - it's perfectly gradual, never frustrating, just enough to keep you hooked as the characters develop and grow closer. The dialogue is sharp, witty, and often hilarious, ensuring a fun, engaging read from start to finish.

Overall, Playing Games is a well-crafted continuation of the Dickson University series, offering a perfect blend of romance, humor, and personal growth. It’s an irresistible read for fans of enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romances, and books that you can’t put down once you start. If you enjoyed the first book, you won’t want to miss this one.

A super-cute college and sports romcom. Blake and Lexie are just great together. Lexie is a neurodiverse genius, doing her second doctorate. She's quite self-aware and doesn't understand her own attraction to the quarterback at their college.

Blake is the star quarterback whose goal is to get Lexi, but as a girlfriend - the full shebang in fact. Lexie is a bit older (4 years) and as far as he's concerned, she's the whole package. He's a golden retriever, smart and persistent and it's so much fun to watch him work for it.

This is low angst, funny and clever. Authors Max and Monroe make it look easy. Lexie and Blake are part of the Dickson University series, and their parents are also part of this world. It's always a challenge to make second generation characters (who have had happy childhoods) interesting to the reader and here it's done really well. I knew some people from earlier books, but not everyone and it didn't affect my reading experience. The loveliest aspects are the sense of family, Blake's patience and persistence, Lexie's effort to understand other people, and herself – and a satisfying HEA!

Thank you Max and Monroe, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.

An emotional rollercoaster w/a heartwarming payoff!

After getting my heart ripped out and trampled on while reading Learning Curve (still one of my top reads of 2024!), I was both nervous and excited to start this one. Blake's charm quickly won me over, and I appreciated the glimpses into Lexi's thoughts--especially when I found myself frustrated with her choices.

Seeing Finn and Scottie as active secondary characters, with a glimpse at their HEA made my heart so happy! Now I can't wait for Ace & Julia's story next!!

Hypothesis: Time with Blake Boden is purely scientific.
Conclusion: He’s not just breaking my rules—he’s rewriting them.

Other Book Info:
🏈 New adult standalone romance
🤓 He’s the star quarterback. She’s the cute genius (and neurodivergent).
💘 Opposites attract with intense first-love vibes
🫶 He falls first
🤫 Secret relationship
😂 Witty banter & laugh-out-loud moments
🔥 Off-the-charts chemistry
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine (Reversed)
🛡️ Protective Hero

Blake KNEW that Lexi was the one for him from the first moment they met! Lexi wasn't having ANY of it though! Whew did she put him through it and a couple times I almost wanted him to just let it go. She figured it out though, until she didn't. Then I wanted to smack her! We all end up happy in the end though!

This is HEAVY on the secret relationship where one side really doesn't want to keep the secret. If the angst and upset that goes along with that is not your jam then just don't even bother. If that's your thing, though, then RUN to get this book.

Now I'll be sitting in the corner impatiently waiting for these other two knuckle headed best friends to figure out they're in love with each other.

HUGE thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

The story sounded really good in theory but the book couldn’t hold my interest and idk the cast of characters just didn’t speak to me.

Blake was the saving grace though, he’s such a cutie. I wanna protect him from the world 😭

Lexi’s povs were rlly boring Icel. I didn’t really care for anything outside of blake.

I loved how doting and determined he was 🤭😋

The text messages were the highlight of the book.



Thank you NetGalley and Max Monroe for the ARC.

This story was so good since the characters, Lexi and Blake, were such opposites. Lexi is a brainy neurodivergent student who star quarterback Blake thinks is fascinating. Their interactions were so authentic and the chemistry was off the charts! I could not put this book down!

Blake Boden makes me want to believe in love at first sight.

I love that we got a neurodivergent love interest. I love that we got a cinnamon roll star quarterback. However, I didn't love how repetitive everything was. Even though this book is 100+ pages shorter than the first book in the series, it felt much longer to me because of that. Also, I get that Lexi has difficulty with emotions and with reading cues from others, but I just feel like she took advantage of Blake's kindness quite a bit. He was very sweet and understanding of her needs, but it felt like he was the only one putting in the effort 95% of the time. One example, him ALWAYS bringing food to her (and paying for it), meanwhile she never offered to do the same for him or offer something equivalent. It just felt a bit unfair sometimes. HE did not ever see it that way, but I just felt like he needed to ask more from her to prove that she wasn't just using him.

Overall, I enjoyed it but I didn't loooooooove it.

A welcome return to Dickson University for Playing Games, a fabulous, polar opposites colliding, reverse grumpy sunshine romance that is filled with wicked humour, sizzling steam, witty banter and a whole lotta love as star quarterback Blake Bodin falls for an older woman in the neurodivergent genius Lexi Winslow. Honestly, it must be the athlete in him, but this player has stamina, anyone else would’ve given up on Lexi after the third rejection, whoever said ‘faint heart never won fair lady’ could’ve been talking about Lexi, When she finally she agreed to see him it was with the proviso it remained a secret from everyone, It would be so easy to think Lexi was embarrassed about dating a jock at this point, but she had issues connecting on an emotional level, so she decides to treat Blake as an experiment until she realises that she can in a relationship and happy. Blake, the ultimate golden retriever just knew she was the girl he was going to marry and would wait however long it took. With a fantastic, close-knit group of friends for the secondary characters I can’t wait to return to Dick U especially since the next book looks like being prankster extraordinaire Ace Kelly’s turn in the spotlight and I get the feeling that particular acorn hasn’t fallen far from the tree.

Meet star quarterback, Blake Boden and genius, neurodivergent Lexi Winslow. Blake will stop at nothing to make Lexi his but Lexi refuses to give him the time of day.

I loved the banter between these love birds, their chemistry was oozing off the pages and boy was it steamy.