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The Game Changer
A hockey player and a baker shoot their shot in this steamy new romance.
When a very public breakup becomes a PR nightmare for Ian Chase's team, he hopes to focus on his game, but that suddenly seem less likely than a hat trick. With his career and the team’s image in jeopardy, Ian is surprised to find a solution through none other than Delilah Baker, his best friend and teammate's little sister…who isn’t so little anymore.
Delilah Baker is known as “the darling of baking” on her local cable show, and being in the public eye is her bread and butter. But with her numbers dwindling and her producers turning up the heat, Delilah offers up the half-baked idea to collaborate with her brother’s team to entice the hockey fans of Boston to tune in to her show. Delilah thinks it will be a piece of cake—until the team sends Ian Chase, her brother’s best friend and the object of a decade-long crush that she’s never quite gotten over.
Delilah's and Ian’s teams think it’s a true win-win situation—gaining higher numbers for Delilah’s show and casting Ian in a more positive light. And viewers are eating them up like a cupcake, sparking the idea to play up their relationship for the goal of good press. With more than just their careers on thin ice, the line between what’s real and what’s for show begins to blur, but one thing’s for certain: This PR stunt will either be a total game changer—or leave them both totally pucked.
When a very public breakup becomes a PR nightmare for Ian Chase's team, he hopes to focus on his game, but that suddenly seem less likely than a hat trick. With his career and the team’s image in jeopardy, Ian is surprised to find a solution through none other than Delilah Baker, his best friend and teammate's little sister…who isn’t so little anymore.
Delilah Baker is known as “the darling of baking” on her local cable show, and being in the public eye is her bread and butter. But with her numbers dwindling and her producers turning up the heat, Delilah offers up the half-baked idea to collaborate with her brother’s team to entice the hockey fans of Boston to tune in to her show. Delilah thinks it will be a piece of cake—until the team sends Ian Chase, her brother’s best friend and the object of a decade-long crush that she’s never quite gotten over.
Delilah's and Ian’s teams think it’s a true win-win situation—gaining higher numbers for Delilah’s show and casting Ian in a more positive light. And viewers are eating them up like a cupcake, sparking the idea to play up their relationship for the goal of good press. With more than just their careers on thin ice, the line between what’s real and what’s for show begins to blur, but one thing’s for certain: This PR stunt will either be a total game changer—or leave them both totally pucked.
400 pages, Paperback
First published July 9, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
February 17, 2024
hi, lana's fanclub president here. I dunno about you but a ginger daddy in skates that knows when to call me brat and does [redacted] things to me just gets me going, so if it floats your boat too, this book is 100000% for ya. Also there's a locker room shower scene that's *incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally horny* and something you want in your kindle highlights (we all have them, there's no shame in that besties)
PS: Jack is mine woof woof
PS: Jack is mine woof woof
March 15, 2024
i’m happy to say that The Game Changer was such an enjoyable read for me and had everything I’ve come to expect from Lana Ferguson: lovable characters, great banter, plenty of chemistry and just enough spice. you can expect: brother’s best friend trope, fake dating, age gap, friends to lovers and no third act break up as well !! 💖
“It’s like I spent most of my life blind until you walked back into my life, and i finally saw you.”
we follow Delilah and Ian who’ve known eachother for years through Jack— (Delilah’s brother and Ian’s best friend/teammate). i can’t emphasize enough how much i appreciated that Jack wasn’t the obnoxious jerk type with the BBF trope and he was actually one of my favorite characters since he’s hilarious. Ian has that rugged exterior but is actually a teddy bear inside and i adored him. Delilah is easy to root for cause she’s sweet and supportive, while also being so witty. the connection between Ian and Delilah felt authentic and believable considering she’s been pining after him since she was a teen and he finally opened his eyes to her years later.
“I feel like I can just be. Like everything I am is enough, because Lila deemed it so.”
as much as i loved Delilah and Ian together, i have to admit that the pet names were not doing it for me. i also didn’t like how much focus was put on Delilah being “so grown up now” from the last time Ian saw her. i get that he’s older than she is but she’s almost thirty and still got coddled too much at the start for my liking. but other than that this was a really fun read and there’s a ton of great side characters as well in Delilah’s crew on her baking show and Ian’s hockey teammates. i took my time reading this one and i’m kind of sad it’s over cause i’ve grown so attached to everyone in this book by this point. 🥹
➺ thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
“It’s like I spent most of my life blind until you walked back into my life, and i finally saw you.”
we follow Delilah and Ian who’ve known eachother for years through Jack— (Delilah’s brother and Ian’s best friend/teammate). i can’t emphasize enough how much i appreciated that Jack wasn’t the obnoxious jerk type with the BBF trope and he was actually one of my favorite characters since he’s hilarious. Ian has that rugged exterior but is actually a teddy bear inside and i adored him. Delilah is easy to root for cause she’s sweet and supportive, while also being so witty. the connection between Ian and Delilah felt authentic and believable considering she’s been pining after him since she was a teen and he finally opened his eyes to her years later.
“I feel like I can just be. Like everything I am is enough, because Lila deemed it so.”
as much as i loved Delilah and Ian together, i have to admit that the pet names were not doing it for me. i also didn’t like how much focus was put on Delilah being “so grown up now” from the last time Ian saw her. i get that he’s older than she is but she’s almost thirty and still got coddled too much at the start for my liking. but other than that this was a really fun read and there’s a ton of great side characters as well in Delilah’s crew on her baking show and Ian’s hockey teammates. i took my time reading this one and i’m kind of sad it’s over cause i’ve grown so attached to everyone in this book by this point. 🥹
➺ thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc, all opinions are my own.
April 14, 2024
3 stars★
“I don’t know when you went from the girl I adored to the woman I can’t stop thinking about, but you did . You’ve always been in my heart, but now you’re in my head too."
This story is all about Ian Chase, hockey player🏒, and Delilah Baker, the adorable baker🧁. Ian needs good press, and Delilah's baking show needs more views. So, they team up in the kitchen and things get steamy. But when the internet thinks they're a couple, they decide to fake a relationship for positive PR. The twist? Delilah has had a crush on Ian since she was twelve, but he's always seen her as a little sister. Will they be able to keep their feelings in check or will it all come crashing down?
This was my first Lana Ferguson book. I really expected to love it but I didn't feel anything for the main characters.I wanted to see more reasons why the main couple wanted to be together. They talked a lot about their past connection, but since they hadn't been in touch for so long, I needed to know what they loved about each other now. At first, the pet names might have been okay, but seeing them repeatedly got on my nerves. And it was kinda weird how she kept referring to her teenage obsession and living out her fantasy. I just needed a little more tension and spark to really feel the romance, you know? Her brother was such a pleasant surprise, and I couldn't help but like him. He had this great sense of humor that had me laughing throughout the book..
This hockey romance is perfect for those who can't stand miscommunication. Once the main characters finally get together, it's smooth sailing from there on out. This book just wasn’t for me sadly.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
────────
pre-review: time to enjoy this sweet collision of baking and ice hockey!🏒🧁
“I don’t know when you went from the girl I adored to the woman I can’t stop thinking about, but you did . You’ve always been in my heart, but now you’re in my head too."
This story is all about Ian Chase, hockey player🏒, and Delilah Baker, the adorable baker🧁. Ian needs good press, and Delilah's baking show needs more views. So, they team up in the kitchen and things get steamy. But when the internet thinks they're a couple, they decide to fake a relationship for positive PR. The twist? Delilah has had a crush on Ian since she was twelve, but he's always seen her as a little sister. Will they be able to keep their feelings in check or will it all come crashing down?
This was my first Lana Ferguson book. I really expected to love it but I didn't feel anything for the main characters.I wanted to see more reasons why the main couple wanted to be together. They talked a lot about their past connection, but since they hadn't been in touch for so long, I needed to know what they loved about each other now. At first, the pet names might have been okay, but seeing them repeatedly got on my nerves. And it was kinda weird how she kept referring to her teenage obsession and living out her fantasy. I just needed a little more tension and spark to really feel the romance, you know? Her brother was such a pleasant surprise, and I couldn't help but like him. He had this great sense of humor that had me laughing throughout the book..
This hockey romance is perfect for those who can't stand miscommunication. Once the main characters finally get together, it's smooth sailing from there on out. This book just wasn’t for me sadly.
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
────────
pre-review: time to enjoy this sweet collision of baking and ice hockey!🏒🧁
July 9, 2024
happy release day!!!!! begging on my hands and knees for everyone to read this book 🩰
LIVE LAUGH LOVE LANA FERGUSON!!!!!
ahhhh this was so stinking cute! this was the friendiest friends to lovers to EVER and i actually ate it up. the angst will never not get me, sorry not sorry 🤭 lana knows how to bring the heat and oh my lord both delilah AND ian brought the heat iykykkkkk. also him being a hockey player 🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️are you shitting me
i am knawing on the bars of my enclosure for her next book actually! i fear a monster romance is exactly what i need from her
LIVE LAUGH LOVE LANA FERGUSON!!!!!
ahhhh this was so stinking cute! this was the friendiest friends to lovers to EVER and i actually ate it up. the angst will never not get me, sorry not sorry 🤭 lana knows how to bring the heat and oh my lord both delilah AND ian brought the heat iykykkkkk. also him being a hockey player 🧎🏻♀️🧎🏻♀️are you shitting me
i am knawing on the bars of my enclosure for her next book actually! i fear a monster romance is exactly what i need from her
March 3, 2024
Step into the enchanting world of sports romance, where heartwarming moments and thrilling excitement await in the masterful storytelling of Lana Ferguson, the brilliant mind behind Nanny.
This captivating tale promises to whisk you away with its blend of sweet romance, palpable chemistry, and irresistible tropes like friends-to-lovers and fake dating. Ferguson's skillful storytelling is sure to hook you from the first page, making it impossible not to fall under its spell.
Curl up on your couch, grab your favorite beverage, and prepare to lose yourself in the pages of this fast-paced, engaging read. It's the perfect escape for those seeking a delightful journey filled with laughter, swoons, and heartwarming moments.
Now, let's dive into the plot: The story unfolds through the perspectives of two protagonists. First, we meet Delilah Baker, a talented cable channel baking show host in her late twenties, who spent years honing her craft in Paris. When her show faces the threat of cancellation due to declining ratings, Delilah's brother Jack comes up with a brilliant idea—to invite hockey players as guests on her show to boost its popularity.
Enter Ian Chase, recently returned to Boston following a scandalous divorce and in need of a positive image makeover. When his agent suggests appearing on a cooking show hosted by none other than Delilah Baker—the same girl he remembers from their childhood—Ian sees it as a chance for a nostalgic reunion.
However, upon meeting Delilah again, Ian is taken aback by her transformation into a stunning and witty woman, reigniting feelings he thought were long forgotten. Meanwhile, Delilah finds herself grappling with complex emotions, as her childhood crush on Ian resurfaces with renewed intensity. Their undeniable chemistry sizzles both on-screen and off, captivating audiences and sparking rumors.
When Ian's agent proposes a fake dating scenario to improve his public image, Ian hesitates, mindful of the boundaries with his best friend's sister—though his private desires suggest otherwise. Meanwhile, Delilah, always up for a challenge, sees the fake dating charade as a strategic move to save her show's future.
But as their pretend relationship deepens amidst mounting tension, Ian's secrets from a mysterious past threaten to unravel everything. Will they take a chance on love, defying the odds stacked against them?
In summary, this is a spellbinding sports romance that offers an irresistible blend of passion, humor, and heartfelt moments. Highly recommended for anyone in search of a delightful escape into the world of romance.
A special thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing this enchanting romance's digital review copy. Your generosity is truly appreciated.
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This captivating tale promises to whisk you away with its blend of sweet romance, palpable chemistry, and irresistible tropes like friends-to-lovers and fake dating. Ferguson's skillful storytelling is sure to hook you from the first page, making it impossible not to fall under its spell.
Curl up on your couch, grab your favorite beverage, and prepare to lose yourself in the pages of this fast-paced, engaging read. It's the perfect escape for those seeking a delightful journey filled with laughter, swoons, and heartwarming moments.
Now, let's dive into the plot: The story unfolds through the perspectives of two protagonists. First, we meet Delilah Baker, a talented cable channel baking show host in her late twenties, who spent years honing her craft in Paris. When her show faces the threat of cancellation due to declining ratings, Delilah's brother Jack comes up with a brilliant idea—to invite hockey players as guests on her show to boost its popularity.
Enter Ian Chase, recently returned to Boston following a scandalous divorce and in need of a positive image makeover. When his agent suggests appearing on a cooking show hosted by none other than Delilah Baker—the same girl he remembers from their childhood—Ian sees it as a chance for a nostalgic reunion.
However, upon meeting Delilah again, Ian is taken aback by her transformation into a stunning and witty woman, reigniting feelings he thought were long forgotten. Meanwhile, Delilah finds herself grappling with complex emotions, as her childhood crush on Ian resurfaces with renewed intensity. Their undeniable chemistry sizzles both on-screen and off, captivating audiences and sparking rumors.
When Ian's agent proposes a fake dating scenario to improve his public image, Ian hesitates, mindful of the boundaries with his best friend's sister—though his private desires suggest otherwise. Meanwhile, Delilah, always up for a challenge, sees the fake dating charade as a strategic move to save her show's future.
But as their pretend relationship deepens amidst mounting tension, Ian's secrets from a mysterious past threaten to unravel everything. Will they take a chance on love, defying the odds stacked against them?
In summary, this is a spellbinding sports romance that offers an irresistible blend of passion, humor, and heartfelt moments. Highly recommended for anyone in search of a delightful escape into the world of romance.
A special thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for providing this enchanting romance's digital review copy. Your generosity is truly appreciated.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
twitter<
July 9, 2024
The Game Changer is a lighthearted romcom following Delilah, a sunshiny baker, and Ian, a pro hockey player returning to his home team. With Delilah’s baking show struggling and Ian’s constant negative press, the two childhood friends team up to put on a show for the public and lean into their supposed romance. However, as they start to spend more time together, the lines begin to blur and they quickly find themselves unable to pretend and keep their feelings at bay.
This romance was so fun and flirty! Every page and interaction was so sweet and kept me engaged to the very end. Ian and Delilah were absolutely adorable together, I loved that they didn’t hold back from each other and yet took the time to find their footing before putting a label on their relationship. The plot was super playful and I ate up every morsel of family drama, I loved that there was something more substantial to offset the unserious nature of the romance. I completely recommend this sweet and steamy romcom, full of chemistry, quirky banter, and so much charm.
~Many thanks to Berkley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This romance was so fun and flirty! Every page and interaction was so sweet and kept me engaged to the very end. Ian and Delilah were absolutely adorable together, I loved that they didn’t hold back from each other and yet took the time to find their footing before putting a label on their relationship. The plot was super playful and I ate up every morsel of family drama, I loved that there was something more substantial to offset the unserious nature of the romance. I completely recommend this sweet and steamy romcom, full of chemistry, quirky banter, and so much charm.
~Many thanks to Berkley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2024
Star rating: ★★★★☆
Spice rating: 3.5🔥🥵
State condition: cute & satisfied
Thank you to Berkley and Lana for an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
When I got notified I got approved to read an arc of this book, I screamed and immediately jumped to start it. I have been looking forward to this book ever since it came out that Lana was releasing a hockey romance (one of my favorite genres personally)🥹 and after reading the fake mate (on of my fav books from last year) you can say I was excited.
And this book did not disappoint!! It kept me intrigued with the overall plot (fake dating?! UM YES PLEASE) and had so many cute moments that made me SWOON🫠… and don’t get me started with the spice, because let’s be honest, if you’re familiar with Lana and her writing, you KNOW her spice scenes never disappoint and they are always hot as fuckkkk (don’t even get me started on a certain shower scene 🫢😉)
Also the excerpt for her NEXT book release.., I AM SO EXCITED GIVE IT TO ME NOW PLEASE😩😫
Spice rating: 3.5🔥🥵
State condition: cute & satisfied
Thank you to Berkley and Lana for an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
When I got notified I got approved to read an arc of this book, I screamed and immediately jumped to start it. I have been looking forward to this book ever since it came out that Lana was releasing a hockey romance (one of my favorite genres personally)🥹 and after reading the fake mate (on of my fav books from last year) you can say I was excited.
And this book did not disappoint!! It kept me intrigued with the overall plot (fake dating?! UM YES PLEASE) and had so many cute moments that made me SWOON🫠… and don’t get me started with the spice, because let’s be honest, if you’re familiar with Lana and her writing, you KNOW her spice scenes never disappoint and they are always hot as fuckkkk (don’t even get me started on a certain shower scene 🫢😉)
Also the excerpt for her NEXT book release.., I AM SO EXCITED GIVE IT TO ME NOW PLEASE😩😫
February 22, 2024
okay this was simultaneously the cutest and hottest book ever. go forth and add to your tbrs!!
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July 9, 2024
Happy Release Day!
"I hate him," I grumble.
Ian chuckles softly. "No, you don't."
"No," I sigh. "I don't." I can't help but peck another kiss against his mouth. "Now, go on. You have a game to win."
"Sweetheart," he says, smiling against my mouth. "I already won."
This was a solid sports romance. I've really been enjoying Lana's books lately and this is another one I can add to my library 🩷
Both characters were great and I loved seeing both POVs, though I'm cooling a little bit on insta lust storylines, which this basically was. Not to mention there were several mentions to Lila's "obsession" with Ian as a kid, which was a little awkward imo.
There were parts of one of the main storylines that I didn't enjoy, and I really didn't enjoy how it all came to a head at the end, but this didn't have a a third act break-up which was AMAZING. Just another great example of a third act complication where the MC's stick together and communicate. Love to see it.
Would absolutely recommend for romance readers 💕
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
"I hate him," I grumble.
Ian chuckles softly. "No, you don't."
"No," I sigh. "I don't." I can't help but peck another kiss against his mouth. "Now, go on. You have a game to win."
"Sweetheart," he says, smiling against my mouth. "I already won."
This was a solid sports romance. I've really been enjoying Lana's books lately and this is another one I can add to my library 🩷
Both characters were great and I loved seeing both POVs, though I'm cooling a little bit on insta lust storylines, which this basically was. Not to mention there were several mentions to Lila's "obsession" with Ian as a kid, which was a little awkward imo.
There were parts of one of the main storylines that I didn't enjoy, and I really didn't enjoy how it all came to a head at the end, but this didn't have a a third act break-up which was AMAZING. Just another great example of a third act complication where the MC's stick together and communicate. Love to see it.
Would absolutely recommend for romance readers 💕
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
November 1, 2023
I am going to eat this up like it’s my last dessert.
Update: and I did.
Update: and I did.
Want to read
April 6, 2024this is literally all my fav tropes🤭 so excited for it
Read
March 7, 2024DNF 67% in. Not for me
February 29, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley, for allowing me to read this title early! This is Lana Ferguson’s third romance book that I have read in the past year and I can now absolutely call myself a super-fan of hers. And not just because this was a hockey romance, (which happens to be a favorite trope of mine) or the fact that there was no dreaded third act breakup, (Again, Thank you, Lana!!!!) but the vibrant characters, a story that keeps you rooting for them, and a sickly sweet romance plot that doesn’t quit made this an absolutely desirable read. I cannot wait to see what Lana cooks up next for us!
April 15, 2024
thank you to netgalley & berkley for an arc copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
┏━━━━━•❅•°•❈•°•❅•━━━━━┓
ੈ♡˳ rating: 3/5
ੈ♡˳ thoughts:
having previously read many books by lana, i decided to try her arc and give it a try. give your girl a steamy hockey romance and i am good to go. this book is perfect for someone who loves a story without third-act breakups or the miscommunication trope. however, it fell a little flat for me. the story was interesting enough, brother’s best friend, was super streamy at times when it needed to be. however, i felt like the characters were super boring. they had chemistry, but barely any. the conversations were a little boring between the two of them and the best character was her brother jack who wasn’t even though he wasn’t even a main character. i felt myself flipping through the story towards th end because i wanted to finish it but i wasn’t invested anymore. also, another thing that bothered me was the continuous reference to the fact that he used to see her as a kid but he didn’t anymore. like even two pages before they had sex he was thinking about her when she was younger. not my cup of tea, but i know that the girlies are going to eat this book up.
ੈ♡˳ tropes:
ꕥ best friends to lovers
ꕥ stuck together
ꕥ brother’s best friend
◡̈ ◡̈ ◡̈
March 30, 2024
♡︎ Bookup México me dio el ARC para pode reseñarlo ♡︎
Si estas buscando un romance deportivo de dos amigos de la infancia que pasan años sin verse, se reencuentran y ahora él es el que esta enamoradisimo de ella; este libro es para ti. 🙊
Me gustó muchisimo y siento que es de esos libros ligeritos que te sacan un rato del ruido.
Si estas buscando un romance deportivo de dos amigos de la infancia que pasan años sin verse, se reencuentran y ahora él es el que esta enamoradisimo de ella; este libro es para ti. 🙊
Me gustó muchisimo y siento que es de esos libros ligeritos que te sacan un rato del ruido.
June 8, 2024
Do you like sports romances (specifically hockey)? Do you like fake-dating? Do you like mega-watt steam? Do you like cupcakes?
You're welcome.
You're welcome.
Want to read
November 28, 2023A LANA FERGUSON HOCKEY ROMANCE ??? I COULDNT IMAGINE SOMETHING MORE PERFECT 🤭
Shelved as 'dnf'
March 23, 2024DNF @ 48% I could NOT finish this. I was highly anticipating "The Game Changer" due to its combination of fake dating and hockey themes. However, my excitement quickly turned to disappointment as I found the writing to be lackluster. The dialogue felt forced and robotic, causing me to feel disconnected from the story and its characters. Ultimately, I was unable to develop any real emotions towards the characters, leaving me unsatisfied with the overall reading experience.
July 9, 2024
happy release day!
ian & delilah are here! lana’s first hockey romance was so delicious, which was no surprise.
when ian comes back to his home team, he’s in desperate need of some good pr. the solution? fake date his best friend’s little sister, obviously.
fake dating is one of my fav tropes. the tension??? the longing and pining?? GIMMEEEE. add in the semi-forbidden aspect because it’s ian’s best friend’s little sister and I ate it up.
one thing I didn’t love was how it was heavily focused on delilah’s childhood crush. I actually hate unrequited love and this felt like that towards the beginning. especially once ian started noticing her and comparing it to how they were growing up. it honestly icked me out a bit.
nonetheless this is a fun, light, fluffy and smutty read with no third act breakup!
thank you sm to berkley romance and netgalley for an arc 💖
read if you like
✨ hockey romance
✨ best friend’s sibling
✨ fake dating
✨ no third act break up
ian & delilah are here! lana’s first hockey romance was so delicious, which was no surprise.
when ian comes back to his home team, he’s in desperate need of some good pr. the solution? fake date his best friend’s little sister, obviously.
fake dating is one of my fav tropes. the tension??? the longing and pining?? GIMMEEEE. add in the semi-forbidden aspect because it’s ian’s best friend’s little sister and I ate it up.
one thing I didn’t love was how it was heavily focused on delilah’s childhood crush. I actually hate unrequited love and this felt like that towards the beginning. especially once ian started noticing her and comparing it to how they were growing up. it honestly icked me out a bit.
nonetheless this is a fun, light, fluffy and smutty read with no third act breakup!
thank you sm to berkley romance and netgalley for an arc 💖
read if you like
✨ hockey romance
✨ best friend’s sibling
✨ fake dating
✨ no third act break up
March 27, 2024
Lana Ferguson's books seem to be a hit or a miss for me I really didn't like The Nanny, really enjoyed The Fake Mate and felt somewhere in the middle about The Game Changer. My main issue was that I didn't love the couple, Lila and Ian. They were cute at times, but I wasn't wrapped up in their romance the way I am with 4 or 5-star romance books. This made the book drag along because I didn't really care. I wasn't particularly interested in the subplotline with Abigail either, so there wasn't much pushing me through this book.
Lana Ferguson's writing has become stronger with each book she releases, and this book was no exception. I am really looking forward to her fourth book Under Loch and Key which will be published on December 3rd, 2024. It is another paranormal romance, which I believe is Fergusons's strongest subgenre. If you're a fan of hockey romances, The Game Changer might be for you, but otherwise, I would recommend skipping it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the e-arc of The Fake Mate by Lana Ferguson in exchange for an honest review.
Read my reviews for Lana Ferguson's books here:
The Nanny - 2 stars
The Fake Mate - 3.5/5 stars
The Game Changer - 3 stars
Under Loch and Key - Release date: December 3rd, 2024
Lana Ferguson's writing has become stronger with each book she releases, and this book was no exception. I am really looking forward to her fourth book Under Loch and Key which will be published on December 3rd, 2024. It is another paranormal romance, which I believe is Fergusons's strongest subgenre. If you're a fan of hockey romances, The Game Changer might be for you, but otherwise, I would recommend skipping it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the e-arc of The Fake Mate by Lana Ferguson in exchange for an honest review.
Read my reviews for Lana Ferguson's books here:
The Nanny - 2 stars
The Fake Mate - 3.5/5 stars
The Game Changer - 3 stars
Under Loch and Key - Release date: December 3rd, 2024
July 2, 2024
This was a really entertaining brother's best friend romance. Every time I pick up a Lana Ferguson book, I know I'm in for some scorching hot times and The Game Changer definitely delivered!
Things to look forward to:
- brother's best friend
- sports and foodie romance
- fake dating
- slow burn
- forced proximity
- friends to lovers
- it's always been you
- all the pining
- off the charts melt your earbuds/kindle sexual chemistry
- sexy times outside the bedroom (*cough* locker room *cough*)
- found family
- hilarious and sweet bromance
- no third act breakup
I really appreciated that most of the drama in this one was external to our main couple. There were lots of clues leading up to the reveal, so it wasn't a big surprise, but I liked how it was ultimately handled by Ian and Delilah. I did think that they should have spoken to Jack a lot earlier about their relationship, but I can understand why they hesitated. The epilogue was very sweet and seeing these characters come full circle was very satisfying.
I loved the narration by Zachary Webber and Samantha Summers. Both were perfectly cast and I loved how "enthusiastic" their performances were, especially during those spicy scenes. I definitely recommend experiencing this one on audio if you have the chance.
Audiobook Review
Overall 4.5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars
CW: death of parents (past), grief, panic attack, parental infidelity, emotionally abusive parent, strained relationship with parent
*I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book*
Things to look forward to:
- brother's best friend
- sports and foodie romance
- fake dating
- slow burn
- forced proximity
- friends to lovers
- it's always been you
- all the pining
- off the charts melt your earbuds/kindle sexual chemistry
- sexy times outside the bedroom (*cough* locker room *cough*)
- found family
- hilarious and sweet bromance
- no third act breakup
I really appreciated that most of the drama in this one was external to our main couple. There were lots of clues leading up to the reveal, so it wasn't a big surprise, but I liked how it was ultimately handled by Ian and Delilah. I did think that they should have spoken to Jack a lot earlier about their relationship, but I can understand why they hesitated. The epilogue was very sweet and seeing these characters come full circle was very satisfying.
I loved the narration by Zachary Webber and Samantha Summers. Both were perfectly cast and I loved how "enthusiastic" their performances were, especially during those spicy scenes. I definitely recommend experiencing this one on audio if you have the chance.
Audiobook Review
Overall 4.5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars
CW: death of parents (past), grief, panic attack, parental infidelity, emotionally abusive parent, strained relationship with parent
*I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book*
April 25, 2024
Ahh i enjoy Lana Ferguson's books a lot, they are easy, steamy, and fun to read and this was no different. Though this is not my favorite of hers I liked the characters, and plot in this one and I especially love how versatile the author is in the type of books she writes. In this book, the fmc is a baker who employs the help of her brother's best friend who just moved back into town. She has always had a crush on him and still thinks of her as a kid but as they start to work together and have to spend a lot of time together lots of sparks and spice fly between them. This book is very swoony, it's a slow burn but the tension was a+. I loved that the sports aspect wasn't overpowering and the cute plot. The spicy scenes were well done and I loved the main characters. I'm hoping we get Jack's book next because he was an awesome side character. As always thanks to Berkley for this arc for an honest review.
Read if you like:
- Sports romance
- Brother's best friend
- Steamy scenes
- Friends to lovers
- No third act breakup
Read if you like:
- Sports romance
- Brother's best friend
- Steamy scenes
- Friends to lovers
- No third act breakup
February 29, 2024
The Game Changer by Lana Ferguson
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 (4.5 stars)
- childhood friends
- brothers best friend
- fake dating
- hockey romance
So, folks, gather 'round because Lana Ferguson just dropped another gem with "The Game Changer," and let me tell you, I'm about ready to declare her my official dealer of bookish dopamine hits. Seriously, she's become my literary happy place—a one-click wonder!
Now, let's dive into this masterpiece. We've got Delilah, the baking maestro with her own TV show, and Ian, the hockey hottie. I mean, who doesn't love a good dose of hockey romance? If puck action and oven mitts sound like your kind of party, then hold on tight because this one's a wild ride.
Lana rolls out the red carpet of tropes, and I am here for it. Childhood friends turning into something more? Check. Banter that makes you snort-laugh? Double-check. The chemistry between Delilah and Ian is so electric; I swear my e-reader might need a cooldown.
Now, let's talk spice. Lana doesn't hold back, and neither does Ian. That dude's mouth had me sweating—yes, literally. And don't even get me started on the locker room scene. It's the kind of steaminess that makes you reconsider your choice of reading location. I may or may not have blushed hard enough to rival a tomato.
So, if you're on the hunt for a rom-com that's as spicy as your favorite hot wings, grab "The Game Changer." Lana Ferguson delivers a 4.5/5 star experience that's hotter than a jalapeño on a summer day. Trust me; your bookshelf needs this.
I just reviewed The Game Changer by Lana Ferguson. #TheGameChanger #NetGalley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 (4.5 stars)
- childhood friends
- brothers best friend
- fake dating
- hockey romance
So, folks, gather 'round because Lana Ferguson just dropped another gem with "The Game Changer," and let me tell you, I'm about ready to declare her my official dealer of bookish dopamine hits. Seriously, she's become my literary happy place—a one-click wonder!
Now, let's dive into this masterpiece. We've got Delilah, the baking maestro with her own TV show, and Ian, the hockey hottie. I mean, who doesn't love a good dose of hockey romance? If puck action and oven mitts sound like your kind of party, then hold on tight because this one's a wild ride.
Lana rolls out the red carpet of tropes, and I am here for it. Childhood friends turning into something more? Check. Banter that makes you snort-laugh? Double-check. The chemistry between Delilah and Ian is so electric; I swear my e-reader might need a cooldown.
Now, let's talk spice. Lana doesn't hold back, and neither does Ian. That dude's mouth had me sweating—yes, literally. And don't even get me started on the locker room scene. It's the kind of steaminess that makes you reconsider your choice of reading location. I may or may not have blushed hard enough to rival a tomato.
So, if you're on the hunt for a rom-com that's as spicy as your favorite hot wings, grab "The Game Changer." Lana Ferguson delivers a 4.5/5 star experience that's hotter than a jalapeño on a summer day. Trust me; your bookshelf needs this.
I just reviewed The Game Changer by Lana Ferguson. #TheGameChanger #NetGalley
February 27, 2024
A hockey romance with side of brothers bff! This is for the girlies who aren’t fans of miscommunication or third act breaks ups because it’s pretty slow burn and smooth sailing once the two leads get together. I enjoyed the first half of the book but once they go together it kinda lost all its appeal for me. Lila being so obsessed with him since she was a teen and even now was a little too desperate for my taste. Not a bad book at all, but def my least favorite.
Thank you Berkley & NetGalley for the arc
Thank you Berkley & NetGalley for the arc
Read
May 15, 2024i simply cannot get into this one
February 19, 2024
When Delilah Baker's baking show isn't performing as well as her producers want it to, she comes up with a plan to feature Boston's beloved hockey team to bring in viewers. What she didn't expect was Ian Chase to be the player they send in: her brother's best friend and her first love. After a record breaking episode and viewers honing in on their on-screen chemistry, Lila and Ian decide to enter a fake dating situationship in hopes of gaining good press that could benefit them both.
This was a solid, easy read from Lana! The plot is very straight forward and while it was not super unique, it was executed well; the relationship that develops between Ian and Lila was believable, spicy scenes were hot, and thank god, there wasn't a third act break up. Ferguson's writing improves with each book and its noticeable! I had a good time with this and think a lot of readers will too.
Thank you Berkley Romance for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a solid, easy read from Lana! The plot is very straight forward and while it was not super unique, it was executed well; the relationship that develops between Ian and Lila was believable, spicy scenes were hot, and thank god, there wasn't a third act break up. Ferguson's writing improves with each book and its noticeable! I had a good time with this and think a lot of readers will too.
Thank you Berkley Romance for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
July 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
Honestly, it is becoming more and more apparent, but I just KNOW when I pick up a book by Lana, I’m going to love it! Honestly, we all need that kind of stability in our lives! 😂
Right from the start, the chemistry between Ian and Lila was off the charts. In a romance, honestly, this is what I like to see! 👏🏼 Throw in a mutually beneficial fake relationship with allllllll the tension and you’ll have us readers eating out of the palm of your hand! I mean, just picture a ginger Thor with rolled-up sleeves in an apron being called Cupcake on a baking show on live tv! I am dead! 💀😂 Lana had me kicking my feet and squealing throughout this entire story, it was just so good! I could not get enough of these two lovebirds! This was for every girl who had a crush and wondered if it would ever come to be! 🤭🥰
Not only were our MCs absolute perfection, but the Druids players stole my heart! The banter between these boys was top-notch! I cannot help but wish and pray that we get to see more of them in the future… 👀
Thank you to Berkley Romance (@berkleyromance #berkleypartner) for the free book!
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
I LOVED THIS BOOK!
Honestly, it is becoming more and more apparent, but I just KNOW when I pick up a book by Lana, I’m going to love it! Honestly, we all need that kind of stability in our lives! 😂
Right from the start, the chemistry between Ian and Lila was off the charts. In a romance, honestly, this is what I like to see! 👏🏼 Throw in a mutually beneficial fake relationship with allllllll the tension and you’ll have us readers eating out of the palm of your hand! I mean, just picture a ginger Thor with rolled-up sleeves in an apron being called Cupcake on a baking show on live tv! I am dead! 💀😂 Lana had me kicking my feet and squealing throughout this entire story, it was just so good! I could not get enough of these two lovebirds! This was for every girl who had a crush and wondered if it would ever come to be! 🤭🥰
Not only were our MCs absolute perfection, but the Druids players stole my heart! The banter between these boys was top-notch! I cannot help but wish and pray that we get to see more of them in the future… 👀
Thank you to Berkley Romance (@berkleyromance #berkleypartner) for the free book!
June 12, 2024
DNF at 32%
With that being said, I will give a review on what I have read
Thank you netgalley for this arc. (Or not because I hated it)
Truthfully, I didn't feel it. The connection or the drive for them to be together. It felt ICKY. That is the only word I can use to describe it. Ian kept calling Dee little, his best friends LITTLE sister, and idk, to then backtrack and be like wow she's got big tits is just weird. I did not like the way that Ferguson approached the brothers best friend/best friends sister at all. It felt beyond forced.
The writing took a plunge. It felt like it was too aware of itself for its own good. Like yes, it's a book and yes, we know it's fake, but it felt like I could see through the screen and see Ferguson writing it, and I hate that feeling. I felt entirely disconnected from their relationship and their situation. I simply couldn't care less and won't pretend like I do. I might finish reading it, just so I can KNOW and just because it's free, but right now, I'm really feeling icked out with all of the information that I have learned from the author and the person himself.
With that being said, I will give a review on what I have read
Thank you netgalley for this arc. (Or not because I hated it)
Truthfully, I didn't feel it. The connection or the drive for them to be together. It felt ICKY. That is the only word I can use to describe it. Ian kept calling Dee little, his best friends LITTLE sister, and idk, to then backtrack and be like wow she's got big tits is just weird. I did not like the way that Ferguson approached the brothers best friend/best friends sister at all. It felt beyond forced.
The writing took a plunge. It felt like it was too aware of itself for its own good. Like yes, it's a book and yes, we know it's fake, but it felt like I could see through the screen and see Ferguson writing it, and I hate that feeling. I felt entirely disconnected from their relationship and their situation. I simply couldn't care less and won't pretend like I do. I might finish reading it, just so I can KNOW and just because it's free, but right now, I'm really feeling icked out with all of the information that I have learned from the author and the person himself.
February 26, 2024
for delilah baker and ian chase, it was always going to be them – it was just a matter of timing. in the game changer, these childhood friends fall fast in love and commit to the happy ending they deserve, no matter the hurdles.
when ian is traded back to boston's hockey team in need of a reputatiion repair and delilah's television production team desire a ratings boost, the circumstances align perfectly to get these lovebirds in a room, to really get the rumors flying. having grown up together thanks to ian being delilah's older brother's friend, old feelings resurface upon reintroduction and it is full steam ahead from there, pun intended. honestly, there were even moments where the game changer felt a bit like a second book in a series where the couple have settled in and look to work out the kinks that could keep them apart. while that insta-love aspect didn't impact my overall enjoyment much, it was a touch too fluffy at times. just a personal preference thing ultimately.
having also read lana ferguson's the fake mate, I have such appreciation for her versatile storytelling and the courage it must take to tackle plots on opposite sides of the romance genre. in this book, we get a hockey romance from an author whose last release was omegaverse centric. having to shift gears like that can't be an easy task. it's even more impressive to pull it off and delivered a low-stakes romance, full of heat and swoon. delilah and ian's dynamic felt effortless. readers on the hunt for a breezy read will be in good hands with this one.
thanks to berkley and lana ferguson for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
when ian is traded back to boston's hockey team in need of a reputatiion repair and delilah's television production team desire a ratings boost, the circumstances align perfectly to get these lovebirds in a room, to really get the rumors flying. having grown up together thanks to ian being delilah's older brother's friend, old feelings resurface upon reintroduction and it is full steam ahead from there, pun intended. honestly, there were even moments where the game changer felt a bit like a second book in a series where the couple have settled in and look to work out the kinks that could keep them apart. while that insta-love aspect didn't impact my overall enjoyment much, it was a touch too fluffy at times. just a personal preference thing ultimately.
having also read lana ferguson's the fake mate, I have such appreciation for her versatile storytelling and the courage it must take to tackle plots on opposite sides of the romance genre. in this book, we get a hockey romance from an author whose last release was omegaverse centric. having to shift gears like that can't be an easy task. it's even more impressive to pull it off and delivered a low-stakes romance, full of heat and swoon. delilah and ian's dynamic felt effortless. readers on the hunt for a breezy read will be in good hands with this one.
thanks to berkley and lana ferguson for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2024
Stars: 4/5
Spice: 3/5
- brother's best friend
- hockey romance
- fake dating
- slow burn
- friends to lovers
- no 3rd act breakup
Delilah "Lila" Baker is a baker (funny right?) and the host of a small cable network baking show. Ian is an NHL hockey player returning to play for his hometown team, which his parents own, but he's been the subject of bad press about his relationships in the past. Lila and Ian team up to do a little fake dating and have Ian as a guest on her show to boost her viewership and boost Ian's image. We can't forget that Lila has been pinning over Ian since she was a kid and now is finally her chance to have him, but will it be real or just for show?
This was a fun hockey romance read. Brother's best friend is one of my favorite tropes and this one did it well. Lila and Ian seemed like a great fit for each other and just needed a little push for Ian to realize it. The plot did slow down a little at points, but not too much. The concept was cute and I liked how their relationships slowly gross. Its a slow burn, which normally isn't my favorite, but this one worked. Overall I enjoyed this book and give it 4 of 5 stars.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
@emily_alwaysreading
Spice: 3/5
- brother's best friend
- hockey romance
- fake dating
- slow burn
- friends to lovers
- no 3rd act breakup
Delilah "Lila" Baker is a baker (funny right?) and the host of a small cable network baking show. Ian is an NHL hockey player returning to play for his hometown team, which his parents own, but he's been the subject of bad press about his relationships in the past. Lila and Ian team up to do a little fake dating and have Ian as a guest on her show to boost her viewership and boost Ian's image. We can't forget that Lila has been pinning over Ian since she was a kid and now is finally her chance to have him, but will it be real or just for show?
This was a fun hockey romance read. Brother's best friend is one of my favorite tropes and this one did it well. Lila and Ian seemed like a great fit for each other and just needed a little push for Ian to realize it. The plot did slow down a little at points, but not too much. The concept was cute and I liked how their relationships slowly gross. Its a slow burn, which normally isn't my favorite, but this one worked. Overall I enjoyed this book and give it 4 of 5 stars.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
@emily_alwaysreading
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