Play Me - Adriana Locke

This book is exactly what happens when sports romance meets sharp banter, deep-down hurt, and a “you and me against the world” kind of chemistry. If you’re into grumpy-hero meets feisty heroine, with a dash of team spirit and secret vulnerability, you’re probably going to enjoy this one.

Astrid Lawsen is the kind of heroine I adore—organized, efficient, no-nonsense. She’s called in to help keep things on track at the Tennessee Royals Rugby Club, and her newest “problem” is none other than Gray Adler—tatted, rude, a walking red flag… and a rugby star who hates being managed. Right off the bat: Astrid and Gray despise each other. Hard. The kind of mutual disdain that, you know, might just be love in disguise. Gray’s truck is huge, his horn is weaponised, and Astrid? She’s simply done with his nonsense. Until she’s not.

They’re forced together (assistant + athlete), slow-burn chemistry builds, witty back-and-forth turns into something… deeper. But Gray’s hiding secrets. And when those secrets collide with Astrid’s heart? It’s messy, it’s sweet, and yes—it’s delicious.

❤️ What I Loved

• Enemies → Lovers done right: The banter between Astrid and Gray is gold. They snap at each other, challenge each other, and the energy is electric.

• Sports setting but emotional heart: Yes, rugby is the backdrop. But the story isn’t just about touchdowns or tackles—it’s about trauma, healing, trust. Gray’s past, Astrid’s boundaries… both of them grow.

• Sharp side-characters & found family vibes: Astrid’s girlfriends, Gray’s teammates, the team dynamic—they all bring warmth and extra flavour. Makes the world feel lived-in, not just centre-stage for the leads.

⚠ What to Know Before You Dive In

• If you’re not a fan of slow-burn or hate-to-love set-ups, you might find the early parts a little… sharp. They don’t fall in love on page one—they earn it.

• There are secrets. Gray’s baggage is significant and it takes time to unpack. If you prefer clean, no-big-deal romance, this might stretch you.

• Sports vocabulary & team-culture are part of the rhythm. Doesn’t overwhelm, but if you’re not into sports at all, some scenes might feel a little extra.

✅ Should You Read It?

If you’re into:

• A “grumpy sports hero I shouldn’t fall for” storyline

• Hilarious banter + slow-burn attraction

• Emotional depth wrapped in a sporty-team culture

• Characters who have to grow before they fully trust

… then yes, absolutely pick up Play Me. Grab it, settle in with your favourite snack, and prepare for sizzle + heart + a romance you’ll enjoy lingering in long after the last page.

But if you’re looking for something totally fresh and outside romance tropes (no sports, no hate-to-love, no big secret), this might feel comfortably familiar. And that’s okay—because sometimes the familiarity is exactly what you crave.

4/5 for me