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Problems #2
The Problem with Players
As a female coach, I’ve always lived by a simple mantra: throw hard, swing for the fences, and never, ever look back--especially when it comes to past flames.
So when my ex-boyfriend somehow manages to land the job as my new assistant coach, my life is flipped upside down. The game I thought I'd mastered is now being played with a whole new set of rules.
My ex is baseball's all-star Nathan Pierce. He’s tall, dark, and undeniably handsome. He's also all too eager to spend extra hours working together while flashing that familiar devilish smirk of his that still sends my heart racing.
Between playful teasing and lingering stares I discover that Nathan isn’t just here to work. He’s here to rewrite history. Our history.
And when fate throws another curveball involving me needing a place to stay, Nathan offers up his spare bedroom, which sends me spiraling into emotions I believed had long since faded.
Now I’m faced with the ultimate decision: keep it professional and continue fleeing from our past, or confront it head-on by playing the game he thinks we were meant to finish together.
So when my ex-boyfriend somehow manages to land the job as my new assistant coach, my life is flipped upside down. The game I thought I'd mastered is now being played with a whole new set of rules.
My ex is baseball's all-star Nathan Pierce. He’s tall, dark, and undeniably handsome. He's also all too eager to spend extra hours working together while flashing that familiar devilish smirk of his that still sends my heart racing.
Between playful teasing and lingering stares I discover that Nathan isn’t just here to work. He’s here to rewrite history. Our history.
And when fate throws another curveball involving me needing a place to stay, Nathan offers up his spare bedroom, which sends me spiraling into emotions I believed had long since faded.
Now I’m faced with the ultimate decision: keep it professional and continue fleeing from our past, or confront it head-on by playing the game he thinks we were meant to finish together.
412 pages, Paperback
Published May 23, 2024
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Currently reading
May 26, 2024Available now!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4csdApl
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/ProblemwPlayers
Audible: https://adbl.co/3ypigN8
Narrated by: Aure Nash & Winston James
Tropes:
Sports Romance ⚾️
Small town 🏘
Second chance 💕
Roommates 👩🏽🤝👨🏾
He falls first
Slow burn 🔥
Amazon: https://amzn.to/4csdApl
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/ProblemwPlayers
Audible: https://adbl.co/3ypigN8
Narrated by: Aure Nash & Winston James
Tropes:
Sports Romance ⚾️
Small town 🏘
Second chance 💕
Roommates 👩🏽🤝👨🏾
He falls first
Slow burn 🔥
May 16, 2024
5 stars
My goodness... I couldn't have loved this more! Avery and Nathan's story was so special to me. I'm obsessed with this series!
Nathan and Avery’s story is a second-chance romance. They dated in high school and were very much in love, but life (ahem… Nathan) happened and things didn’t work out. It’s safe to say they were both ‘the one that got away’ for the other.
Avery has moved on, she’s a teacher who coaches baseball and Nathan was a professional player. But Nathan is back in town… Things don’t work out in her current relationship and she needs a place to stay. Nathan has an extra room.
Oh, the forced proximity of my dreams! Not just that, but workplace romance, small-town goodness, sports romance, and the best familial relationships. So many things I adore in a book. Not to mention the depression representation and honestly one of the best caretaking scenes I’ve ever read. One of my favorite things about this book is how Nathan never made Avery feel hard to love. Sigh.
As someone who very much has ‘Oldest Sibling Syndrome,’ I related to Avery so much. So many scenes I read and thought… this is me. It feels nice to be seen in a book in some way. Nathan was truly a gem. Was he perfect, no one is, but he was perfect for Avery and I loved them together so much!
This book made my heart so happy. I can always count on a Brittainy Cherry book to do that. Her writing is one of my favorite things. The Problem with Players is a beautiful romance that will hold a special place in my heart.
*beta copy provided by author*
She was, and always would be, my very favorite sunbeam.
My goodness... I couldn't have loved this more! Avery and Nathan's story was so special to me. I'm obsessed with this series!
Nathan and Avery’s story is a second-chance romance. They dated in high school and were very much in love, but life (ahem… Nathan) happened and things didn’t work out. It’s safe to say they were both ‘the one that got away’ for the other.
Avery has moved on, she’s a teacher who coaches baseball and Nathan was a professional player. But Nathan is back in town… Things don’t work out in her current relationship and she needs a place to stay. Nathan has an extra room.
Oh, the forced proximity of my dreams! Not just that, but workplace romance, small-town goodness, sports romance, and the best familial relationships. So many things I adore in a book. Not to mention the depression representation and honestly one of the best caretaking scenes I’ve ever read. One of my favorite things about this book is how Nathan never made Avery feel hard to love. Sigh.
“Loving you is easy.”
As someone who very much has ‘Oldest Sibling Syndrome,’ I related to Avery so much. So many scenes I read and thought… this is me. It feels nice to be seen in a book in some way. Nathan was truly a gem. Was he perfect, no one is, but he was perfect for Avery and I loved them together so much!
This book made my heart so happy. I can always count on a Brittainy Cherry book to do that. Her writing is one of my favorite things. The Problem with Players is a beautiful romance that will hold a special place in my heart.
And there it was… my beam of light.
*beta copy provided by author*
May 14, 2024
I LOVE BRITTAINY CHERRY AND I LOVE THIS BOOKK!!!!!!
i was so so so excited for this book ever since reading ‘the problem w dating’ and let me tell u it did NOT disappoint. i related so much to avery, its like i felt her through the pages. and nathan was everything. their dynamic and banter was just *chefs kiss*
now LISTEENNNN… willows book is gonna EAAATT i already know.
“i loved you. i love you. and i will love you.” !!!!
i was so so so excited for this book ever since reading ‘the problem w dating’ and let me tell u it did NOT disappoint. i related so much to avery, its like i felt her through the pages. and nathan was everything. their dynamic and banter was just *chefs kiss*
now LISTEENNNN… willows book is gonna EAAATT i already know.
“i loved you. i love you. and i will love you.” !!!!
May 23, 2024
The Problem With Players is a small town, second chance, sports romance home run!
I've always been a huge fan of Brittainy Cherry. There's something about her writing that feels like coming home for me. The romance is always the star of the show, but there are so many other aspects of her stories that draw me in --like strong side characters with wise words, self-discovery and healing, and a raw, poignant way of writing that feels like hearing a story from my best friend.
Cherry captivates in this novel which straddles the line between romantic comedy and heartbreaking angst fest. It is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, a reminder that falling in love is not alway easy when we are dealing with so much as individual human beings. I appreciate that Cherry doesn't tiptoe around difficult topics -- like how depression can play a hand in even the happiest of times in our lives.
While Nathan Pierce is absolutely swoon-worthy, it was Avery Kingsley who stole the show for me. I love seeing a heroine who is so real and relatable, and I feel like many of us will identify with her rage over being pigeon holed as a woman in a male-dominated workforce, as well as her struggle with grief, depression, and moving forward after trauma. So many of us have been in situations where we react in ways we don't want to simply because we don't know any other way. I loved that about her, that I could see a younger version of myself and got to experience healing again alongside our main female character.
Also... a moment for the spice?! This is a SLOW BURN, but once these two finally give in, it's like shooting a gun at a warehouse full of fireworks. It was sexy without feeling forced, thanks to a chemistry between the two that was built with careful care and diligence.
Truly magical, The Problem With Players is tender, witty, and full of charm. Fans of small town and sports romances will eat this one up and come back for seconds. Five stars and a field of butterflies!
I've always been a huge fan of Brittainy Cherry. There's something about her writing that feels like coming home for me. The romance is always the star of the show, but there are so many other aspects of her stories that draw me in --like strong side characters with wise words, self-discovery and healing, and a raw, poignant way of writing that feels like hearing a story from my best friend.
Cherry captivates in this novel which straddles the line between romantic comedy and heartbreaking angst fest. It is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, a reminder that falling in love is not alway easy when we are dealing with so much as individual human beings. I appreciate that Cherry doesn't tiptoe around difficult topics -- like how depression can play a hand in even the happiest of times in our lives.
While Nathan Pierce is absolutely swoon-worthy, it was Avery Kingsley who stole the show for me. I love seeing a heroine who is so real and relatable, and I feel like many of us will identify with her rage over being pigeon holed as a woman in a male-dominated workforce, as well as her struggle with grief, depression, and moving forward after trauma. So many of us have been in situations where we react in ways we don't want to simply because we don't know any other way. I loved that about her, that I could see a younger version of myself and got to experience healing again alongside our main female character.
Also... a moment for the spice?! This is a SLOW BURN, but once these two finally give in, it's like shooting a gun at a warehouse full of fireworks. It was sexy without feeling forced, thanks to a chemistry between the two that was built with careful care and diligence.
Truly magical, The Problem With Players is tender, witty, and full of charm. Fans of small town and sports romances will eat this one up and come back for seconds. Five stars and a field of butterflies!
July 4, 2024
3.5 stars
When I started this one, I was loving the angst of two exes having to work together as baseball coaches for the same team. They had history and the heroine was still hurt, but she was engaged to someone else. Unfortunately, when we hit the halfway point, the story lost a bit of steam for me. I wish we had more excitement around the baseball team and more to the plot overall. I did appreciate the important topics this handled and how how the hero and heroine grew close because of those topics, but the angst fizzled pretty quickly and I wasn't as in love with the story anymore.
When I started this one, I was loving the angst of two exes having to work together as baseball coaches for the same team. They had history and the heroine was still hurt, but she was engaged to someone else. Unfortunately, when we hit the halfway point, the story lost a bit of steam for me. I wish we had more excitement around the baseball team and more to the plot overall. I did appreciate the important topics this handled and how how the hero and heroine grew close because of those topics, but the angst fizzled pretty quickly and I wasn't as in love with the story anymore.
May 25, 2024
The Problem with Players by Brittainy C. Cherry
5/5 stars
Oh this book was such a happy and feel good story. But it also has a lot of heart, the characters are very layered. And the mental health representation is top notch and worked out very carefully and respectfully. I think that was my most favorite aspect of this book.
The book starts with Avery who is secretly watching the super bowl on her mobile phone in her own house on her toilet. Her fiance arranged a tech free party where he invited his fans. Even though he knows it's the super bowl, he doesn't want Avery watching it. Wesley, the fiance, is very smart, fancy and the complete opposite of Avery. When his friends arrive she realizes Drew is a female, and she finds out they used to date.
She needs to get a breath of fresh air to process this and she goes to the liquor store to buy some more liquor for the party. She bumps into Nathan Pierce. The man who she hates with a vengeance. He broke her heart when she was 18 and him leaving her broke her apart.
She sees how close Drew and Wesley are. But Wesley says it is all in the past and she trusts him.
Avery is also a kickass baseball coach at a highschool and when the other coach retires she assumes she gets the main coach position.
But the school hired no one else but the famous Nathan Pierce. Former professional baseball player. And he got the head coach position. And she is furious.
We find out that Nathan didn't know they did her dirty like that. And he offers her the head coach position and she takes it. And that is what kickstarts the story.
This story contains the relationship story of Avery and Wesley. We follow how it evolves and changes and develops. And it is not their story. But we do follow their journey for a while.
We see how strong the bond and pain still is between Avery and Nathan. I love how funny and kind and loyal he is. I love how much he respects and appreciates Avery. They are both such pure souls and I adored that.
But we also follow the story of the Pierce family. I just love all the storylines about the brothers and extended family. The side characters are so rich and layered and I love that to pieces.
We also see how fragile Avery really is. How much pain she carries with her. And how she was shaped to be so distant and so cold at times. I felt her fear in my bones. I felt her pain rage through me. And I love how it was addressed in the story.
I also loved how much Avery and Nathan love the kids they teach. How they see them as individuals. How they help them forward. As humans, as a team, as athletes and as students.
I just love the love, the truth and acceptance in this story. 5 huge stars from me for this brilliant book.
5/5 stars
Oh this book was such a happy and feel good story. But it also has a lot of heart, the characters are very layered. And the mental health representation is top notch and worked out very carefully and respectfully. I think that was my most favorite aspect of this book.
The book starts with Avery who is secretly watching the super bowl on her mobile phone in her own house on her toilet. Her fiance arranged a tech free party where he invited his fans. Even though he knows it's the super bowl, he doesn't want Avery watching it. Wesley, the fiance, is very smart, fancy and the complete opposite of Avery. When his friends arrive she realizes Drew is a female, and she finds out they used to date.
She needs to get a breath of fresh air to process this and she goes to the liquor store to buy some more liquor for the party. She bumps into Nathan Pierce. The man who she hates with a vengeance. He broke her heart when she was 18 and him leaving her broke her apart.
She sees how close Drew and Wesley are. But Wesley says it is all in the past and she trusts him.
Avery is also a kickass baseball coach at a highschool and when the other coach retires she assumes she gets the main coach position.
But the school hired no one else but the famous Nathan Pierce. Former professional baseball player. And he got the head coach position. And she is furious.
We find out that Nathan didn't know they did her dirty like that. And he offers her the head coach position and she takes it. And that is what kickstarts the story.
This story contains the relationship story of Avery and Wesley. We follow how it evolves and changes and develops. And it is not their story. But we do follow their journey for a while.
We see how strong the bond and pain still is between Avery and Nathan. I love how funny and kind and loyal he is. I love how much he respects and appreciates Avery. They are both such pure souls and I adored that.
But we also follow the story of the Pierce family. I just love all the storylines about the brothers and extended family. The side characters are so rich and layered and I love that to pieces.
We also see how fragile Avery really is. How much pain she carries with her. And how she was shaped to be so distant and so cold at times. I felt her fear in my bones. I felt her pain rage through me. And I love how it was addressed in the story.
I also loved how much Avery and Nathan love the kids they teach. How they see them as individuals. How they help them forward. As humans, as a team, as athletes and as students.
I just love the love, the truth and acceptance in this story. 5 huge stars from me for this brilliant book.
May 23, 2024
4 ⭐️ second chance romances are the best and this book is another example that proves my point!
nathan and avery had one amazing summer together before college, but that all came to an end when nathan left for school. he comes back to town to coach the high school baseball team with avery and she is not happy about it, but she’s stuck with him for the season. it’s hard to deny your feelings when the love of your life is next to you all day.
i am a major nathan pierce lover! he is actually the perfect book boyfriend and everyone needs to meet him. avery is also an angel (even though she would say otherwise) and i adore her! i loved reading about these two finding their way back together because they are soulmates. nobody gets them like they get each other!
thank you good girls pr and vpr for the arc 💙
nathan and avery had one amazing summer together before college, but that all came to an end when nathan left for school. he comes back to town to coach the high school baseball team with avery and she is not happy about it, but she’s stuck with him for the season. it’s hard to deny your feelings when the love of your life is next to you all day.
i am a major nathan pierce lover! he is actually the perfect book boyfriend and everyone needs to meet him. avery is also an angel (even though she would say otherwise) and i adore her! i loved reading about these two finding their way back together because they are soulmates. nobody gets them like they get each other!
thank you good girls pr and vpr for the arc 💙
May 18, 2024
“I like you so damn much that it scares me, Avery Kingsley. I’m around you all day, and then I still go ahead and dream about you, too.”
Brittainy Cherry's The Problem with Players, the second book in the Problems series, is a fantastic blend of humor, romance, and heartfelt moments. The story centers around Avery, a determined female coach, whose world gets a shake-up when her ex-boyfriend, Nathan Pierce, becomes her new assistant coach. Nathan’s not just back for work—he wants to fix their past.
Nathan is a gem—supportive, sweet, and persistent. His charm and optimism balance Avery’s grumpiness perfectly, making their interactions both fun and heartwarming. The slow build of their romance feels real, letting their connection grow naturally.
Cherry’s humor shines through in Avery and Nathan’s witty banter, keeping things lively. Avery’s struggles with her past, especially losing her mom and dealing with Nathan’s earlier departure, are portrayed with a lot of empathy, adding depth to her character.
"There was no other woman for me. It was Avery Kingsley or no one."
The third-act breakup might seem a bit predictable, but Cherry handles it well, giving both characters a chance to grow individually. This time apart is crucial, especially for Avery, as she learns to confront her trauma and embrace her self-worth.
The interaction between Evan (Nathan's brother) and Willow (Avery's sister) hints at exciting things to come and set up excitement for the next book in the series.
Overall, The Problem with Players hits the sweet spot between romance, humor, and emotional depth. It’s even better than the first book, keeping you hooked from start to finish. If you’re into contemporary romance, this book is a must-read for its heartfelt and engaging story.
Brittainy Cherry's The Problem with Players, the second book in the Problems series, is a fantastic blend of humor, romance, and heartfelt moments. The story centers around Avery, a determined female coach, whose world gets a shake-up when her ex-boyfriend, Nathan Pierce, becomes her new assistant coach. Nathan’s not just back for work—he wants to fix their past.
Nathan is a gem—supportive, sweet, and persistent. His charm and optimism balance Avery’s grumpiness perfectly, making their interactions both fun and heartwarming. The slow build of their romance feels real, letting their connection grow naturally.
Cherry’s humor shines through in Avery and Nathan’s witty banter, keeping things lively. Avery’s struggles with her past, especially losing her mom and dealing with Nathan’s earlier departure, are portrayed with a lot of empathy, adding depth to her character.
"There was no other woman for me. It was Avery Kingsley or no one."
The third-act breakup might seem a bit predictable, but Cherry handles it well, giving both characters a chance to grow individually. This time apart is crucial, especially for Avery, as she learns to confront her trauma and embrace her self-worth.
The interaction between Evan (Nathan's brother) and Willow (Avery's sister) hints at exciting things to come and set up excitement for the next book in the series.
Overall, The Problem with Players hits the sweet spot between romance, humor, and emotional depth. It’s even better than the first book, keeping you hooked from start to finish. If you’re into contemporary romance, this book is a must-read for its heartfelt and engaging story.
June 29, 2024
3.75 stars
i was pleasantly surprised by this book! i struggled a little bit in the beginning but then i couldn't put the book down. such a well-written second-chance love story! this book also tackled some serious topics like mental health and the loss of family members, and i found myself tearing up multiple times during my read.
the heroine, Avery, was very likable and i could really relate to her struggle with depression/anxiety— her worries about messing up and letting people down, her fear of intimacy, and feeling not good enough to be loved. and the hero, Nathan was super swoony! he was supportive and caring, he practically worshipped Avery, and his sense of humor was hilarious. the way he was always there for Avery in her dark moments had me a little emotional. i absolutely loved both of them together, they weren't perfect, but they were perfect for each other.
the secondary characters were just as special and great as well. i adored the bond the Kingsley sisters have together and also the relationship Avery has with her dad, i am so close with my dad and their relationship reminded me a lot of my own! i’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next installment in the series with Willow and Evan's story!
i was pleasantly surprised by this book! i struggled a little bit in the beginning but then i couldn't put the book down. such a well-written second-chance love story! this book also tackled some serious topics like mental health and the loss of family members, and i found myself tearing up multiple times during my read.
the heroine, Avery, was very likable and i could really relate to her struggle with depression/anxiety— her worries about messing up and letting people down, her fear of intimacy, and feeling not good enough to be loved. and the hero, Nathan was super swoony! he was supportive and caring, he practically worshipped Avery, and his sense of humor was hilarious. the way he was always there for Avery in her dark moments had me a little emotional. i absolutely loved both of them together, they weren't perfect, but they were perfect for each other.
the secondary characters were just as special and great as well. i adored the bond the Kingsley sisters have together and also the relationship Avery has with her dad, i am so close with my dad and their relationship reminded me a lot of my own! i’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next installment in the series with Willow and Evan's story!
May 23, 2024
Nathan and Avery owned my heart! Nathan and Avery fell in love one summer when they were 18. That changed when Nathan left for the league, and left Avery heartbroken. Now, Avery is the head coach of the high school baseball team and a recent runaway bride. Nathan has been back in town after a baseball injury, and he threw himself head first into working full time on his family's farm. That is, until the high school brings him in to be another coach on the baseball team. When I tell y'all Avery was not happy, that is an understatement. I love that her heartbreak and strong dislike were apparent, and it took her awhile to let herself be open enough to accept his apologies, friendship, and eventual love. While Nathan is willing to accept friendship and co-coaching for now, he has no doubt in his mind that Avery is his home, if only she would take a risk on him again.
I was emotional this entire story. Avery and Nathan's battles with depression resonated with me deeply, from showing how hard it is to get up in the morning to feeling ashamed to ask for help. The author did a great job at showing Avery's healing process. She needed more than Nathan's love to cope and the author did a great job at realistically portraying that.
Now - the romance? TOP TIER. Past hurt aside, Avery and Nathan were perfect for each other and had some good behind chemistry both on the field and in the bedroom. Nathan's humor and corniness was the perfect match for Avery's grumpy side. It was so sweet when they would laugh together because it was clear that they found a "home" in each other, and they took the time to make sure their relationship had a sturdy foundation before truly giving their love a second chance.
TROPES: small town, close knit family, runaway bride, sports romance (H/h are baseball coaches, H is a former MLB player), grumpy/sunshine, second chance, roommates, "it's always been you", caretaking, mental health representation
TRIGGER WARNINGS: panic/anxiety attacks, mentions of suicide/suicidal ideations, depression, death of a parent, substance abuse, parental abandonment (side character)
I was emotional this entire story. Avery and Nathan's battles with depression resonated with me deeply, from showing how hard it is to get up in the morning to feeling ashamed to ask for help. The author did a great job at showing Avery's healing process. She needed more than Nathan's love to cope and the author did a great job at realistically portraying that.
Now - the romance? TOP TIER. Past hurt aside, Avery and Nathan were perfect for each other and had some good behind chemistry both on the field and in the bedroom. Nathan's humor and corniness was the perfect match for Avery's grumpy side. It was so sweet when they would laugh together because it was clear that they found a "home" in each other, and they took the time to make sure their relationship had a sturdy foundation before truly giving their love a second chance.
TROPES: small town, close knit family, runaway bride, sports romance (H/h are baseball coaches, H is a former MLB player), grumpy/sunshine, second chance, roommates, "it's always been you", caretaking, mental health representation
TRIGGER WARNINGS: panic/anxiety attacks, mentions of suicide/suicidal ideations, depression, death of a parent, substance abuse, parental abandonment (side character)
September 6, 2024
4★★★★Stars
Genre: Sports Romance
Type: Standalone Book 2 of Problems series
POV: First Person- Dual
“And I would walk every broken road twice over if it led me back to this.”
Avery Kingsley grew up loving baseball, she became the high school baseball head coach of the Honey Creek Hornets. When her ex, Nathan Pierce suddenly comes back in her life, she did not anticipated sharing her team that she loves so much with him as a couch. All the sudden all of the fears of the past came rushing to disturb her life.
I liked Avery from the beginning, she was strong and didn’t let anyone push her around. Nathan on the other hand, was the complete opposite of her and I felt they kind of balanced each other. It was funny to see how he kept taken her abuse because he knew her deeper than she knew herself. The story started light and it had some humor but I found myself hurting and crying so many tears in some chapters left me completely emotional.
Overall; The problem with players is story of healing and second chances. Readers looking for a sport romance will find this book appealing.
This was a F(BR) with War.
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
May 24, 2024
4 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Avery Kingsley lives in Honey Creek, Illinois where she's a high school teacher. She likes her job, but her joy is coaching their school's baseball team. She truly cares about the kids, and loves the game. She's always had a passion for sports, but especially baseball. Life is good, and then she's thrown a curveball when her boss wants to bring on a second coach. She doesn't adore working with others, but especially not her ex boyfriend. Avery dated Nathan Pierce the summer of her senior year. She fell hard and fast, and was left with a broken heart. Ever since, she can't stand the sight of him. He found success as an MLB player, but then his career was ruined by an injury. He's been back in their small town for a little over a year now, and everyone but her loves him. His effortless charm and beautiful face were lost on her. She preferred to keep him a distance and went out of her way to avoid him. Now she was going to be forced to spend time with him. As he disrupts her life, things are uncomfortable, and she can't figure out why he's so willing to work together. Then he flashes that playful, flirty smile she's pretended to forget, and everything turns complicated as their connection returns. Will they keep things professional, or will they finally get their happily ever after?
The Problem with Players (Problems #2) by Brittainy C. Cherry is a heartwarming, small town, first loves, slow burn, enemies to lovers, sports romance full of emotion, humor, angst, chemistry and fantastic banter. It's about second chances and following your heart. It's a story that will hit you in all the feels! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/Problem-Player...
(ARC provided by author)
Avery Kingsley lives in Honey Creek, Illinois where she's a high school teacher. She likes her job, but her joy is coaching their school's baseball team. She truly cares about the kids, and loves the game. She's always had a passion for sports, but especially baseball. Life is good, and then she's thrown a curveball when her boss wants to bring on a second coach. She doesn't adore working with others, but especially not her ex boyfriend. Avery dated Nathan Pierce the summer of her senior year. She fell hard and fast, and was left with a broken heart. Ever since, she can't stand the sight of him. He found success as an MLB player, but then his career was ruined by an injury. He's been back in their small town for a little over a year now, and everyone but her loves him. His effortless charm and beautiful face were lost on her. She preferred to keep him a distance and went out of her way to avoid him. Now she was going to be forced to spend time with him. As he disrupts her life, things are uncomfortable, and she can't figure out why he's so willing to work together. Then he flashes that playful, flirty smile she's pretended to forget, and everything turns complicated as their connection returns. Will they keep things professional, or will they finally get their happily ever after?
The Problem with Players (Problems #2) by Brittainy C. Cherry is a heartwarming, small town, first loves, slow burn, enemies to lovers, sports romance full of emotion, humor, angst, chemistry and fantastic banter. It's about second chances and following your heart. It's a story that will hit you in all the feels! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/Problem-Player...
May 23, 2024
Avery + Nathan
Avery and Nathan used to be in love when they were just 18 - it was the greatest summer of their lives. But then he left to become a baseball superstar and she stayed and became a teacher and sports coach at the local highschool.
Ever since then we hated Nathan.
And now he's back. Not only in town to help his family's farm - he's also Avery's new assisstant coach.
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN!
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Adorable!
I enjoyed reading this even though I hate baseball. Well, hate is a strong word. I just don't care for it at all. I don't understand it and I don't want to.
But the non-baseball part was a really cute and slightly heartbreaking second chance love story.
Poor Nathan! The way Avery hates him and tells him how awful he is non-stop. Poor guy. But of course those old feelings are still hidden somewhere and it won't take long for Nathan to charm his way into Avery's heart again.
I really enjoyed reading this.
Can't wait to read Willow's story next!
What I didn't love - next to The Baseball (I hope you noticed I said that like David Rose!) - Nathan's earrings! WHY? There's nothing uglier on a man for me than earrings. Ew. No. Well - only noserings are worse - on any human. But guys with earrings - I just can't take them serious. But I just imagined them into inexistence - that's the good thing about books!
Tiny little rant about the writing again. But don't worry - that's totally just a me problem because I hate the two expressions so much - and Brittainy uses them A LOT!
First: PRIOR. Ugh. No idea why, but I hate that word. Just say LAST NIGHT. Why do people use prior? It always sounds like Hugh Grant is talking to a royal person circa 1829. I hate it.
And then SAID. The said that's used like: She had three dogs, and said dogs were barking all night. Brittainy uses that so much and I hate it. Some of those saids are not even used correctly or way too late after the original thing the said is referring too. Ugh.
But like I said - that's just a me problem.
I really liked reading this!
THE PROBLEM WITH PLAYERS was such a sweet + heartbreaking second chance love story. Cute. Small-towny. Basebally. Funny. Full of family and love and food and all the things. I loved reading it. Run to your nearest book dealer for your own Nathan - he'll be sold out in no time!
💜
💜
June 4, 2024
3.5 Very mixed feelings stars...
Well, that title says it all. I have mixed feeling about this one. I will try to be succinct and not ramble.
The not so good...
1. Avery pushed me to my limit. I did relate to her in some ways. I definitely have OSS. Oldest Sibling Syndrome. I felt those feelings to my core. But Avery also had a BIG tendency to self sabotage. And that got on my nerves.
2. There were so many inaccurate baseball references that could have so easily been corrected with the tiniest bit of research, or asking a baseball fan, or having a beta reader baseball fan. I know that for the people that are not baseball fans, this is not even going to factor. But for those like me that are. The inaccuracies drove me batty and sucked me right out of the story every time. Examples: A. MLB players do not say they "worked" in the major leagues. You "play." B. There are absolutely no sidelines in baseball to dance on to get loose before you bat. You can be in the dugout or the batters circle. Possibly in the bull pin. C. You do not bat from a mound. You pitch from a mound. There were others, but I'll leave it at that... Like I said, these things won't bother people that don't know the difference.
The good...
1. Nathan! Nathan was so patient and sweet and not only so very in love with Avery, but he was a super great friend to her.
2. Side characters! All the Kingsleys and Pierces. Priceless families. Sunday Fun Day!! So much fun. Avery's dad. Precious man. Sisters bond. Brothers bond. I loved all that.
3. Brittiany Cherry writes with so much heart. The mental health rep was well written. It shows in the level of frustration I felt with Avery. By the end of the book, I could absolutely tell BC had a plan and a story to tell. Plus there were a lot of funny parts too.
Okay. So that's it. I would say if it weren't for the baseball mishaps, this would have been a solid 4 star read for me. Me being a fanatic, I just couldn't let it go. Happy reading.
Well, that title says it all. I have mixed feeling about this one. I will try to be succinct and not ramble.
The not so good...
1. Avery pushed me to my limit. I did relate to her in some ways. I definitely have OSS. Oldest Sibling Syndrome. I felt those feelings to my core. But Avery also had a BIG tendency to self sabotage. And that got on my nerves.
2. There were so many inaccurate baseball references that could have so easily been corrected with the tiniest bit of research, or asking a baseball fan, or having a beta reader baseball fan. I know that for the people that are not baseball fans, this is not even going to factor. But for those like me that are. The inaccuracies drove me batty and sucked me right out of the story every time. Examples: A. MLB players do not say they "worked" in the major leagues. You "play." B. There are absolutely no sidelines in baseball to dance on to get loose before you bat. You can be in the dugout or the batters circle. Possibly in the bull pin. C. You do not bat from a mound. You pitch from a mound. There were others, but I'll leave it at that... Like I said, these things won't bother people that don't know the difference.
The good...
1. Nathan! Nathan was so patient and sweet and not only so very in love with Avery, but he was a super great friend to her.
2. Side characters! All the Kingsleys and Pierces. Priceless families. Sunday Fun Day!! So much fun. Avery's dad. Precious man. Sisters bond. Brothers bond. I loved all that.
3. Brittiany Cherry writes with so much heart. The mental health rep was well written. It shows in the level of frustration I felt with Avery. By the end of the book, I could absolutely tell BC had a plan and a story to tell. Plus there were a lot of funny parts too.
Okay. So that's it. I would say if it weren't for the baseball mishaps, this would have been a solid 4 star read for me. Me being a fanatic, I just couldn't let it go. Happy reading.
October 24, 2024
4.5⭐️
GAHHHHHH this book was so so good. hit where it hurt and made me absolutely swoon! related a bit too much to my girl, Avery. I loved this one so much 🥺.
TELL ME WILLOW IS GETTING A BOOK TOO PLEASE!!!
GAHHHHHH this book was so so good. hit where it hurt and made me absolutely swoon! related a bit too much to my girl, Avery. I loved this one so much 🥺.
TELL ME WILLOW IS GETTING A BOOK TOO PLEASE!!!
June 7, 2024
2.5 stars
I wanted to enjoy this so much more than I did. No part of the story really connected with me 100%, I felt like it was all just almost there, so I left feeling ultimately underwhelmed. My biggest issue is probably that while this was a second chance romance between Avery and Nathan - we didn't get enough of their history for that to matter. They could have met for the first time at the beginning of the story and the events of the book could have proceeded the same. I wanted to feel their shared history, but it was only used for surface level stuff. I loved seeing the mental health representation in the book, but it wasn't really given much attention and again could have sued some more development. I think that's the best way I can summarize my experience with this story - I needed more.
I received a copy of the book from Good Girls PR in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to enjoy this so much more than I did. No part of the story really connected with me 100%, I felt like it was all just almost there, so I left feeling ultimately underwhelmed. My biggest issue is probably that while this was a second chance romance between Avery and Nathan - we didn't get enough of their history for that to matter. They could have met for the first time at the beginning of the story and the events of the book could have proceeded the same. I wanted to feel their shared history, but it was only used for surface level stuff. I loved seeing the mental health representation in the book, but it wasn't really given much attention and again could have sued some more development. I think that's the best way I can summarize my experience with this story - I needed more.
I received a copy of the book from Good Girls PR in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2024
Nathan is the blueprint. I love that man down. His patience was unmatched, dedication out of this world. Rizz? Top 2 and not 2
June 1, 2024
4.25/5
coach romance is new but needed !
i absolutely adore second chance romances so when i saw the blurb for this on instagram i ran to download it. i’ve been meaning to read something by this author, obviously i was waiting for nathan and avery! this book was such a great introduction to a new author and a new world, i can not wait to get books for all of nathan’s brothers… PLEASE!!!!
avery was described as a main character that was hard to like, i fell in love with her instantly. all of the things she deals with in her head just feel so real and it was refreshing to see normal struggles in a book. things don’t always need to be over exaggerated, sometimes all you need is good writing. seeing avery get the happy ending she deserved with nathan was so satisfying. nathan was also just so sweet and so emotionally mature. he was grown and i really appreciated that. i loved the storylines with the baseball team and i would love a book on priya and cameron even though that’s probably not gonna happen.
can’t wait to dive into some of this authors backlist now that i know i enjoy her writing. i wish this book was slightly shorter and that the characters, all of them, were a little more true to age. i just couldn’t imagine a teenager using the word “gee” and almost forty year olds acting like the adults in this book. there was also an odd number of times that the word haste was used but that’s totally a me thing and i need to get over that. the actual plot and romance and development was super good though, i highly recommend picking this up soon!!!
coach romance is new but needed !
i absolutely adore second chance romances so when i saw the blurb for this on instagram i ran to download it. i’ve been meaning to read something by this author, obviously i was waiting for nathan and avery! this book was such a great introduction to a new author and a new world, i can not wait to get books for all of nathan’s brothers… PLEASE!!!!
avery was described as a main character that was hard to like, i fell in love with her instantly. all of the things she deals with in her head just feel so real and it was refreshing to see normal struggles in a book. things don’t always need to be over exaggerated, sometimes all you need is good writing. seeing avery get the happy ending she deserved with nathan was so satisfying. nathan was also just so sweet and so emotionally mature. he was grown and i really appreciated that. i loved the storylines with the baseball team and i would love a book on priya and cameron even though that’s probably not gonna happen.
can’t wait to dive into some of this authors backlist now that i know i enjoy her writing. i wish this book was slightly shorter and that the characters, all of them, were a little more true to age. i just couldn’t imagine a teenager using the word “gee” and almost forty year olds acting like the adults in this book. there was also an odd number of times that the word haste was used but that’s totally a me thing and i need to get over that. the actual plot and romance and development was super good though, i highly recommend picking this up soon!!!
May 28, 2024
- Second Chance
- HS baseball coach & Assistant coach
- Ex MLB player
- Forced Proximity
- Mental Health Rep
Gosh, don’t let this cute cartoon cover fool you, this one definitely packs an emotional punch, especially if you are anything like me and can relate to Avery’s internal mental health struggles. I absolutely loved Avery and Nathan together, they weren’t perfect, but they were perfect for each other.
Thank you to GoodGirlsPR for the eARC
- HS baseball coach & Assistant coach
- Ex MLB player
- Forced Proximity
- Mental Health Rep
Gosh, don’t let this cute cartoon cover fool you, this one definitely packs an emotional punch, especially if you are anything like me and can relate to Avery’s internal mental health struggles. I absolutely loved Avery and Nathan together, they weren’t perfect, but they were perfect for each other.
Thank you to GoodGirlsPR for the eARC
May 8, 2024
Genre: Sports Romance
Type: Standalone Book 2 of Problems series
POV: First Person- Dual
Rating:
It was finally Avery Kingsley’s time to shine as the high school baseball head coach of the Honey Creek Hornets. But her high was short lived when an ex lover and ex all-star player Nathan Pierce joined the team and brought back the turmoils of their past.
Sports romance is my least favorite romance sub genre and I know nothing of baseball. But I’m glad this book drew me in without making me lost in unnecessary details.
I craved her stubbornness. Avery’s attitude was one of the things I found most attractive. I didn’t know if that meant I was mentally unwell, but that was where my state of affairs had been.
It was easy for me to connect with Avery and I love it when the heroine is the grumpy/prickly one. Nathan was practical and responsible. It was amusing how he loved her “abuse”. The story was light and fun with emotional moments and plenty of entertaining side characters.
The Problem with Players is a story of second chances and closure. It would appeal to readers who enjoy sports romance in a small town setting.
🔹️⚾️🔹️. . . (F)BR with Loyda . . . 🔹️⚾️🔹️
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May 23, 2024
4.5/5 stars
The Problem with Players is a small town sports romance set in Honey Creek, Illinois. It is the second book in a series featuring three sisters.
This is Avery's story. Avery is a high school baseball coach. She is forced to work with her ex, Nathan.
I really enjoyed the baseball rep. I liked seeing an ex Major League Baseball player (Nathan) coaching a high school team. And I also loved seeing a woman excel at coaching (Avery).
I really enjoyed being back in Honey Creek. And while we did get to see Yara in this book. I do wish that we had gotten to see her even more. The family that this story focused on more was Nathan's family. I actually loved his family and his family's farm. And I suspect that we will get to see even more of them in the third book.
The most substantial part of this book was the mental health rep. I can't recall reading a book where depression and mental health awareness was so intricately tied to the story. There were multiple characters who struggled with their mental health. And I thought that this subject was explored beautifully.
Also I really thought that the grief rep was handled so well. Avery lost her mom and was still dealing with the aftermath of this loss. There were actually multiple characters who had lost a parent and the author really portrayed the effect that this had on them.
The romance in this book was good. I adored Nathan. However I definitely wish that Avery and Nathan didn't spend so much time apart.
But overall it was so great to see these characters again. I have really enjoyed this series. And I'm very excited to read Willow's book. Especially if the love interest is who I think that it will be.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The Problem with Players is a small town sports romance set in Honey Creek, Illinois. It is the second book in a series featuring three sisters.
This is Avery's story. Avery is a high school baseball coach. She is forced to work with her ex, Nathan.
I really enjoyed the baseball rep. I liked seeing an ex Major League Baseball player (Nathan) coaching a high school team. And I also loved seeing a woman excel at coaching (Avery).
I really enjoyed being back in Honey Creek. And while we did get to see Yara in this book. I do wish that we had gotten to see her even more. The family that this story focused on more was Nathan's family. I actually loved his family and his family's farm. And I suspect that we will get to see even more of them in the third book.
The most substantial part of this book was the mental health rep. I can't recall reading a book where depression and mental health awareness was so intricately tied to the story. There were multiple characters who struggled with their mental health. And I thought that this subject was explored beautifully.
Also I really thought that the grief rep was handled so well. Avery lost her mom and was still dealing with the aftermath of this loss. There were actually multiple characters who had lost a parent and the author really portrayed the effect that this had on them.
The romance in this book was good. I adored Nathan. However I definitely wish that Avery and Nathan didn't spend so much time apart.
But overall it was so great to see these characters again. I have really enjoyed this series. And I'm very excited to read Willow's book. Especially if the love interest is who I think that it will be.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2024
Якщо хтось пам'ятає мій відгук на першу книгу серії "Problems" 1⃣, то знає, що мені дуже сильно сподобалися Яра і Алекс! 👩❤️💋👨💙 Від цієї книги трохи менше вражень, попри серйозну тему, зараз спробую пояснити чому ↓
Мені сподобалася ідея книги: другий шанс (попри те, що я максимально скептично ставлюся до цього тропу 🙂↔️) на кохання для старих шкіл��них закоханих – Нейтана, колишнього бейсболіста, і Ейвері, тренера бейсболу в школі, в їхньому маленькому містечку ⚾️🏃♂
Нейтан після відставки повертається в міст�� і починає втручатися в особисте та професійне життя Ейвери після того, як майже 15 років тому їхні підліткові стосунки закінчилися не дуже добре 💔 (не дуже - м'яко кажучи)
Водночас тут троп «буркотун-сонечко», який я дуже люблю! 🫣❤️🩹 Нейтан - щирий, віданний, терплячий, підтримував і розумів Ейвері на кожному кроці. В той же час, жінка, після багатьох втрат, вже не владна довіряти нікому, боїться зради та не хоче вступати у нові стосунки.
Для мене було мало заглиблення в тему психічного здоров'я, враховуючи, що вже почали розкривати всю тему. Не вистачило повноцінної історії від Нейтана про те, як він пережив втрату друга. Про те, як Ейвері боролася з хворобою. В той же час давалися дрібні деталі типу розгорнутого опису будинків братів і тд 🥲
Перечитала всі коментарі на гудрідс і побачила цікавий коментар, про те, що у Ейвері померла мама ще у ранньому дитинстві, а проблеми з Нейтоном були ще у школі. Невже саме це повпливало на таку ненависть до чоловіків і в цілому трохи неприязнь до людей? У неї є чудова модель ідеального чоловіка у вигляді її батька. У вигляді її свояка. Але вона радикально вперлася в те, що кожен мужик - мудло 👆🏼 (хоча в цілому вона права!), і це було ще до того, як її мен почав мутити з колишньою, і до останнього не відступає від цієї ідеї, навіть коли хороший чоловік не десь там, а перед нею.
Тому в цілому мені сподобалося, але не дуже сильно 😂 як я розумію, попереду ще багато книг.. 3 сестри + 5 братів, дві пари між ними 😱 4 книги ще точно буде 🙈
3/5
Мені сподобалася ідея книги: другий шанс (попри те, що я максимально скептично ставлюся до цього тропу 🙂↔️) на кохання для старих шкіл��них закоханих – Нейтана, колишнього бейсболіста, і Ейвері, тренера бейсболу в школі, в їхньому маленькому містечку ⚾️🏃♂
Нейтан після відставки повертається в міст�� і починає втручатися в особисте та професійне життя Ейвери після того, як майже 15 років тому їхні підліткові стосунки закінчилися не дуже добре 💔 (не дуже - м'яко кажучи)
Водночас тут троп «буркотун-сонечко», який я дуже люблю! 🫣❤️🩹 Нейтан - щирий, віданний, терплячий, підтримував і розумів Ейвері на кожному кроці. В той же час, жінка, після багатьох втрат, вже не владна довіряти нікому, боїться зради та не хоче вступати у нові стосунки.
Для мене було мало заглиблення в тему психічного здоров'я, враховуючи, що вже почали розкривати всю тему. Не вистачило повноцінної історії від Нейтана про те, як він пережив втрату друга. Про те, як Ейвері боролася з хворобою. В той же час давалися дрібні деталі типу розгорнутого опису будинків братів і тд 🥲
Перечитала всі коментарі на гудрідс і побачила цікавий коментар, про те, що у Ейвері померла мама ще у ранньому дитинстві, а проблеми з Нейтоном були ще у школі. Невже саме це повпливало на таку ненависть до чоловіків і в цілому трохи неприязнь до людей? У неї є чудова модель ідеального чоловіка у вигляді її батька. У вигляді її свояка. Але вона радикально вперлася в те, що кожен мужик - мудло 👆🏼 (хоча в цілому вона права!), і це було ще до того, як її мен почав мутити з колишньою, і до останнього не відступає від цієї ідеї, навіть коли хороший чоловік не десь там, а перед нею.
Тому в цілому мені сподобалося, але не дуже сильно 😂 як я розумію, попереду ще багато книг.. 3 сестри + 5 братів, дві пари між ними 😱 4 книги ще точно буде 🙈
3/5
May 29, 2024
***5 "Sunbeams!!!" stars***
"Grief is just love with no place to go." -Jamie Anderson
Brittainy Cherry can do no wrong for me!!! I adore every single story of hers and every time that I am starting a book of hers is like I am coming home...
The 'problems' series had become one of my favorite and I adore watching the Kingsley sisters finding their happily ever after and this time was Avery's turn to turn our world upside down!!!
Her book was a second chance, small town, slow burn, sports romance that made my heart swoon, my mouth to smile and my heart to ache from time to time...
Nathan and Avery were the perfect match and their love was biting playfully!!!
"I still hate you."
"With hate like this, who needs love?"
Avery is a female baseball coach in highschool and she is about to get married...
Then her ex boyfriend and famous baseball player, Nathan Pierce is coming into her turf and he is becoming her assistant... Avery hates the guy and he wants him far away from her, but now, she has to be always around him and that is not a good thing!!!
Also, Avery is struggling, but she was always the strong one and she has to hide what she is keeping deep inside and that fact is killing her slowly...
"Sometimes it felt hard to stare into Nathan's eyes. It felt like staring into my future and past all at once."
Nathan used to be a famous baseball player, but then he burned and crushed and he returned back to his hometown and to his family's farm...
When the opportunity is arrising, he is accepting the position of assistant coach in the town's high school...
Now, he has to work with his ex girlfriend and to handle her hatred toward him with gentleness...
Nathan hasn't regret many things in his life, but Avery is his only regret... But the woman of his dreams is getting married and she hates him fiercely...
"Losing Avery Kingsley would be one of the greatest regrets of my life."
I liked Avery and Nathan so much!!!
I know that Nathan had hurt Avery in the past, but he was so sweet and patient with her...
He knew her so well and he was everything that Avery didn't know that she needed...
Avery from the other hand was bitter and some times, unfair toward Nathan, but I could understand her pain very well... This girl had so much burden inside of her, she was carrying so much grief that she never deal with and depression was taking the reigns of her life very often...
My heart was hurting for her behalf...
"That was how our two hearts worked -when hers broke, mine shattered."
These two were meant to be...
Yep, their fights were ugly many times, but their make up was amazing...
I liked how close they came and I liked how well Nathan knew this girl and he was becoming a sunbeam for her very often...
I hated that Avery was struggling so much to float from time to time, but I admired her for her courage to take the lead in a job that was 'made' for men!!!
Nathan was balancing her so good!!! Together they were perfection...
"What is it?"
"I'm just trying to figure it out."
"Figure what out?"
"How I lived all these years without you."
I loved Avery and Nathan very much!!! As much as I have loved Yara and Alex in the previous book!!!
And I know that I am going to love Willow and her man next...
OMG!!! Did I get it right??? Evan will be Willow's man??? I can not wait to see how that will be played out!!!!
And why not??? I am hoping that Ms. Cherry will write the other Pierce brothers' stories too!!! This bunch was incredible!!! I fell in love with this clan and their antics!!! So I am wishing more of them!!!
"You still hate me, Coach?"
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
"Grief is just love with no place to go." -Jamie Anderson
Brittainy Cherry can do no wrong for me!!! I adore every single story of hers and every time that I am starting a book of hers is like I am coming home...
The 'problems' series had become one of my favorite and I adore watching the Kingsley sisters finding their happily ever after and this time was Avery's turn to turn our world upside down!!!
Her book was a second chance, small town, slow burn, sports romance that made my heart swoon, my mouth to smile and my heart to ache from time to time...
Nathan and Avery were the perfect match and their love was biting playfully!!!
"I still hate you."
"With hate like this, who needs love?"
Avery is a female baseball coach in highschool and she is about to get married...
Then her ex boyfriend and famous baseball player, Nathan Pierce is coming into her turf and he is becoming her assistant... Avery hates the guy and he wants him far away from her, but now, she has to be always around him and that is not a good thing!!!
Also, Avery is struggling, but she was always the strong one and she has to hide what she is keeping deep inside and that fact is killing her slowly...
"Sometimes it felt hard to stare into Nathan's eyes. It felt like staring into my future and past all at once."
Nathan used to be a famous baseball player, but then he burned and crushed and he returned back to his hometown and to his family's farm...
When the opportunity is arrising, he is accepting the position of assistant coach in the town's high school...
Now, he has to work with his ex girlfriend and to handle her hatred toward him with gentleness...
Nathan hasn't regret many things in his life, but Avery is his only regret... But the woman of his dreams is getting married and she hates him fiercely...
"Losing Avery Kingsley would be one of the greatest regrets of my life."
I liked Avery and Nathan so much!!!
I know that Nathan had hurt Avery in the past, but he was so sweet and patient with her...
He knew her so well and he was everything that Avery didn't know that she needed...
Avery from the other hand was bitter and some times, unfair toward Nathan, but I could understand her pain very well... This girl had so much burden inside of her, she was carrying so much grief that she never deal with and depression was taking the reigns of her life very often...
My heart was hurting for her behalf...
"That was how our two hearts worked -when hers broke, mine shattered."
These two were meant to be...
Yep, their fights were ugly many times, but their make up was amazing...
I liked how close they came and I liked how well Nathan knew this girl and he was becoming a sunbeam for her very often...
I hated that Avery was struggling so much to float from time to time, but I admired her for her courage to take the lead in a job that was 'made' for men!!!
Nathan was balancing her so good!!! Together they were perfection...
"What is it?"
"I'm just trying to figure it out."
"Figure what out?"
"How I lived all these years without you."
I loved Avery and Nathan very much!!! As much as I have loved Yara and Alex in the previous book!!!
And I know that I am going to love Willow and her man next...
OMG!!! Did I get it right??? Evan will be Willow's man??? I can not wait to see how that will be played out!!!!
And why not??? I am hoping that Ms. Cherry will write the other Pierce brothers' stories too!!! This bunch was incredible!!! I fell in love with this clan and their antics!!! So I am wishing more of them!!!
"You still hate me, Coach?"
**I received an ARC for the exchange of an honest review**
May 25, 2024
“The sunbeams are the small bursts of light that break through one’s window of depression."
This book was absolutely beautiful!! I love Brittainy's writing so much! She always does such an incredible job of balancing humor with very deep subjects! And this book was the perfect example of that!
- Forced proximity
- Second chance
- Enemies to lovers
- Baseball romance
- Oldest sibling syndrome
- Workplace romance
- Depression rep
- Flirty banter
The relationship that Avery and Nathan shared might not have ended the best many years ago, but Nathan was determined not to let his biggest regret go again!
Sometimes I really struggle with second chance romances, I think they're unrealistic 98% of the time! But this book was perfectly done.
• Avery was my favorite type of FMC. She was witty, jagged, cynical, and strong! Even on her hardest days she pushed through. Which is the hardest part of battling depression. Brittainy did an incredible job telling Avery's story!
• Nathan... this MAN. 😍 So unbelievably swoony! I'm a sucker for a golden retriever MMC. The way he spoke about Avery and defended her was how every man should talk about his women. Ahh. It was so sweet! He worshipped her. And actually saw her. He was able to read her so well and love her even on her hard days he knew exactly what she needed. I chuckled so many times at the way he let Avery's insults just roll right off of him.
“You don’t have to pretend to be strong today.”
• I absolutely devoured their witty flirty banter it was top tier!!!
“Knock, knock.”
"Who’s there?”
“Your future husband.”
“You’re not my type, Nathaniel,”
“Because you annoy me too much.”
“That sounds like a compliment.”
“That’s only because your peanut brain doesn’t know how to decipher insults from compliments.”
“Thanks, Coach.”
♥︎
“Just to be clear, even though we’re friends, I still hate you.”
He chuckled. “I’d actually be worried if you didn’t hate me anymore. It’s kind of our thing. You love to hate me, and I just kind of love to be within your orbit as you do so.”
♥︎
“You’d rather stay on a school bus than with your devilishly handsome assistant coach?” he joked.
“Oh, I’d rather stay in a portapotty than with you.”
♥︎
I loved reading about these two finding their way back to each other! This was such a good example of timing.
♥︎
As an oldest child of 4 I could relate so much to Nathan and Avery! Being an oldest try definitely comes with so much pressure.
I loved the support system that both characters had and the relationships they shared with their siblings! 😍
“Go where you’re loved, baby girl, and never stay a second longer when the love is removed.”
This book was absolutely beautiful!! I love Brittainy's writing so much! She always does such an incredible job of balancing humor with very deep subjects! And this book was the perfect example of that!
- Forced proximity
- Second chance
- Enemies to lovers
- Baseball romance
- Oldest sibling syndrome
- Workplace romance
- Depression rep
- Flirty banter
The relationship that Avery and Nathan shared might not have ended the best many years ago, but Nathan was determined not to let his biggest regret go again!
Sometimes I really struggle with second chance romances, I think they're unrealistic 98% of the time! But this book was perfectly done.
• Avery was my favorite type of FMC. She was witty, jagged, cynical, and strong! Even on her hardest days she pushed through. Which is the hardest part of battling depression. Brittainy did an incredible job telling Avery's story!
• Nathan... this MAN. 😍 So unbelievably swoony! I'm a sucker for a golden retriever MMC. The way he spoke about Avery and defended her was how every man should talk about his women. Ahh. It was so sweet! He worshipped her. And actually saw her. He was able to read her so well and love her even on her hard days he knew exactly what she needed. I chuckled so many times at the way he let Avery's insults just roll right off of him.
“You don’t have to pretend to be strong today.”
• I absolutely devoured their witty flirty banter it was top tier!!!
“Knock, knock.”
"Who’s there?”
“Your future husband.”
“You’re not my type, Nathaniel,”
“Because you annoy me too much.”
“That sounds like a compliment.”
“That’s only because your peanut brain doesn’t know how to decipher insults from compliments.”
“Thanks, Coach.”
♥︎
“Just to be clear, even though we’re friends, I still hate you.”
He chuckled. “I’d actually be worried if you didn’t hate me anymore. It’s kind of our thing. You love to hate me, and I just kind of love to be within your orbit as you do so.”
♥︎
“You’d rather stay on a school bus than with your devilishly handsome assistant coach?” he joked.
“Oh, I’d rather stay in a portapotty than with you.”
♥︎
I loved reading about these two finding their way back to each other! This was such a good example of timing.
♥︎
As an oldest child of 4 I could relate so much to Nathan and Avery! Being an oldest try definitely comes with so much pressure.
I loved the support system that both characters had and the relationships they shared with their siblings! 😍
“Go where you’re loved, baby girl, and never stay a second longer when the love is removed.”
September 4, 2024
First of all, Nathan is green flags all around! Loving, kind, patient. Everything you want in a man. Especially dealing with a partner who struggles with mental health. It was such a cute read! Talked about some serious topics like depression/ suicide without changing the focus of the book. Enemies to lovers trope is slowly growing on me. I love how the characters were connected. I didn’t even realize this was an interconnected series. I’m sad because now I’ll have to wait until next year for the third book. Can’t wait !
June 9, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 25, 2024
☆4.09☆
Genre- Romance
✅️ Small town Shtuff
✅️ Dual POV
✅️ second-chance
✅️ close-proximity: roommates and coworkers
✅️ Enemies-to-friends-to-lovers
✅️ older sibling syndrome
✅️ HEA
Trigger Warning: The book deals with topics of suicide, depression and sadness.
REVIEW
Brittainy Cherry for me represents books that are croses between reality and fiction, in the best way possible.
[The Problem with Players] is
Humorous.
Real.
Charming.
With insecurities.
With issues.
With flaws.
But with victory of HEART OVER HEAD!
MMC/ Nathan is truly a consistent character. He knew he made mistakes, he has regrets. Do I believe he has an arc in the book? Nope. I think in that sense, the focus is too much on FMC/ Avery. But he is a solid guy with a solid presence. The love story is what drives the plot.
The book has flaws, no doubt. It isn't perfect. But I do recommend diving into it if you like the tropes and the genre.
P.S. Those interactions between Willow and Evan ⚡️⚡️ I can't wait to read their story!
kissing her in the quiet moments? During the fleeting seconds? Those kisses fed my soul.
Genre- Romance
✅️ Small town Shtuff
✅️ Dual POV
✅️ second-chance
✅️ close-proximity: roommates and coworkers
✅️ Enemies-to-friends-to-lovers
✅️ older sibling syndrome
✅️ HEA
Trigger Warning: The book deals with topics of suicide, depression and sadness.
REVIEW
Brittainy Cherry for me represents books that are croses between reality and fiction, in the best way possible.
[The Problem with Players] is
Humorous.
Real.
Charming.
With insecurities.
With issues.
With flaws.
But with victory of HEART OVER HEAD!
“With hate like this, who needs love?”
MMC/ Nathan is truly a consistent character. He knew he made mistakes, he has regrets. Do I believe he has an arc in the book? Nope. I think in that sense, the focus is too much on FMC/ Avery. But he is a solid guy with a solid presence. The love story is what drives the plot.
I was in a free fall, tumbling down more and more for the woman in front of me. When it came to my love for her, I’d hope I’d never touch solid ground.
The book has flaws, no doubt. It isn't perfect. But I do recommend diving into it if you like the tropes and the genre.
P.S. Those interactions between Willow and Evan ⚡️⚡️ I can't wait to read their story!
July 16, 2024
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Baseball Romance
- Revered Grumpy/Sunshine
- Forced Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Second Chance Romance
- Small Town Romance
- Slow Burn
- Close Knit Family
- Runaway Bride
- "It's Always Been You"
- Diverse Characters
- Mental Health Representation
- Dual POVs
'The Problem With Players' is the second book in the Problems series and can be read as a standalone. This is my first book by Brittainy Cherry, and I am utterly obsessed. This story is perfection! I will now be reading every book on Brittainy's backlist and every book written in the future.
In the past, Avery and Nathan dated before college, but things changed when Nathan left for college and pursued his professional baseball career. In the present, Avery is a high school teacher and coaches the school's baseball team. After a career-ending injury, Nathan returns to their small hometown. Nathan turns Avery's world upside down yet again when he is hired to join the high school's baseball staff. Avery and Nathan are forced to navigate their professional relationship while confronting their feelings for each other.
I loved Avery and Nathan's story! I am a sucker for second chances and loved how Nathan refused to give up on rekindling his relationship with Avery. He was so devoted to Avery and is the ultimate book boyfriend. Avery and Nathan's romance was top-tier. They had amazing chemistry, and I loved the witty banter. It was very clear they were comfortable with each other and could really be themselves. This story is an emotional one, and I appreciated how well Brittainy approached mental health and the struggles of working in a male-dominated profession. The portrayal of Avery's growth and healing and Nathan's support through the process was beautiful.
'The Problem With Players' is honestly so good. There is a good mix of humor, romance, heartfelt moments, and heat. Brittainy created believable and relatable characters, making it easy for me to connect with them. As a huge sports romance fan, I have read a lot of them. It's hard to describe how great it felt to read a sports romance with diverse characters. I did not want this story to end, and I can't wait to read what comes next from Brittainy Cherry.
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
What to Expect:
- Baseball Romance
- Revered Grumpy/Sunshine
- Forced Proximity
- Enemies to Lovers
- Second Chance Romance
- Small Town Romance
- Slow Burn
- Close Knit Family
- Runaway Bride
- "It's Always Been You"
- Diverse Characters
- Mental Health Representation
- Dual POVs
'The Problem With Players' is the second book in the Problems series and can be read as a standalone. This is my first book by Brittainy Cherry, and I am utterly obsessed. This story is perfection! I will now be reading every book on Brittainy's backlist and every book written in the future.
In the past, Avery and Nathan dated before college, but things changed when Nathan left for college and pursued his professional baseball career. In the present, Avery is a high school teacher and coaches the school's baseball team. After a career-ending injury, Nathan returns to their small hometown. Nathan turns Avery's world upside down yet again when he is hired to join the high school's baseball staff. Avery and Nathan are forced to navigate their professional relationship while confronting their feelings for each other.
I loved Avery and Nathan's story! I am a sucker for second chances and loved how Nathan refused to give up on rekindling his relationship with Avery. He was so devoted to Avery and is the ultimate book boyfriend. Avery and Nathan's romance was top-tier. They had amazing chemistry, and I loved the witty banter. It was very clear they were comfortable with each other and could really be themselves. This story is an emotional one, and I appreciated how well Brittainy approached mental health and the struggles of working in a male-dominated profession. The portrayal of Avery's growth and healing and Nathan's support through the process was beautiful.
'The Problem With Players' is honestly so good. There is a good mix of humor, romance, heartfelt moments, and heat. Brittainy created believable and relatable characters, making it easy for me to connect with them. As a huge sports romance fan, I have read a lot of them. It's hard to describe how great it felt to read a sports romance with diverse characters. I did not want this story to end, and I can't wait to read what comes next from Brittainy Cherry.
May 23, 2024
The Problem with Players by Brittainy C.Cherry hit me with angst from so many different directions. I felt my heart has been tossed into the sea during a storm and it just getting battered. But the author also put a lighthouse here. Full of love and hope and new beginning. It made me cry a lot and my heart is still sore. Avery and Nathan's love story was really something special. That's why this is one of my top 2024 read.
⚾️ Second Chance
⚾️ enemies to lovers
⚾️ sports romance
⚾️ mental health representation like depression and trauma
⚾️ big family dynamics with lots of brothers and sisters
⚾️ all the angst
⚾️ POC characters including FMC & MMC & their families
Avery is a very complex character. I don't know why but I have a feeling that she will face criticism from many readers because her arc isn't easy. She isn't perfect or sweet or anything simple. She suffered loss and grief and she has so many scars. She hides her abandonment issues and unresolved depression behind her snark and sass. People call her abrasive and harsh because she never let them see her pain. The author portrayed her depression so vividly. It was like a massive pressure even on my heart. When ex baseball star (and the guy who broke her young heart in high school) Nathan Pierce is appointed as the head coach of the school's baseball team replacing her, she is so angry. But things happen one after another. Nathan refused to take the position, she is left by her fiance on her wedding day and Nathan offers the support she needed but couldn't ask for. Nathan is an amazing hero. He isn't exactly alpha. But he has this disarming charming protective caring personality that is the exact need of Avery. He has fought depression and loss too. He has let the unnecessary pressure of family responsibility drag him down. The chance to redeem himself to Avery put new life in his heart. Avery didn't make it easy. But our hero was so patient and understanding and brilliant. He helped her to shed her burdens one by one even when all she did was to push him back. There was loads of banter and witty battles. There were moments those will absolutely break your heart and will haunt you for a long time. There were beautiful moments those made me smile through tears. A must read for this year.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
⚾️ Second Chance
⚾️ enemies to lovers
⚾️ sports romance
⚾️ mental health representation like depression and trauma
⚾️ big family dynamics with lots of brothers and sisters
⚾️ all the angst
⚾️ POC characters including FMC & MMC & their families
Avery is a very complex character. I don't know why but I have a feeling that she will face criticism from many readers because her arc isn't easy. She isn't perfect or sweet or anything simple. She suffered loss and grief and she has so many scars. She hides her abandonment issues and unresolved depression behind her snark and sass. People call her abrasive and harsh because she never let them see her pain. The author portrayed her depression so vividly. It was like a massive pressure even on my heart. When ex baseball star (and the guy who broke her young heart in high school) Nathan Pierce is appointed as the head coach of the school's baseball team replacing her, she is so angry. But things happen one after another. Nathan refused to take the position, she is left by her fiance on her wedding day and Nathan offers the support she needed but couldn't ask for. Nathan is an amazing hero. He isn't exactly alpha. But he has this disarming charming protective caring personality that is the exact need of Avery. He has fought depression and loss too. He has let the unnecessary pressure of family responsibility drag him down. The chance to redeem himself to Avery put new life in his heart. Avery didn't make it easy. But our hero was so patient and understanding and brilliant. He helped her to shed her burdens one by one even when all she did was to push him back. There was loads of banter and witty battles. There were moments those will absolutely break your heart and will haunt you for a long time. There were beautiful moments those made me smile through tears. A must read for this year.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
May 19, 2024
5💫
"𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵. 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦."
"𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧..."
"𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
a beautiful sports romance with a small town setting, the problem with players highlights a second chance love story between avery, a high school boys baseball coach and nathan, an ex-MLB athlete. both have suffered tragic losses, thwarted relationships and battles with depression but their sheer will to push forward and show up for the people they love is their driving force onwards and towards each other.
despite some slower pacing for the first 50-75 pages, i completely devoured this book! i love a well-done forced proximity black cat/golden retriever dynamic and this one 1000% delivered. avery has one of the most precious relationships with her family (especially her step-dad who just poured out so much adoration for her) and i’m so looking forward to picking up other books in this world that showcase the stories of her sisters!
i love a shameless flirt mmc and nathan?!?! sir, i adore everything about you 🧎🏻♀️ a true acts of service man who’s not afraid to let his girl take the lead. every time he spoke, i was smiling so big and rooting for avery to finally let her walls down so he could come crashing in
TW: this book touches on some heavier topics such as dealing with depression, loss of a friend to su*cide, loss of parents, and mentions of alcohol/substance abuse. i rly appreciated the mental health aspects and thought they were so carefully approached and explored with gentle but impactful intention.
thank you so much to valentine pr for this gifted advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest thoughts!
"𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺. 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴, 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘶𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵. 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦."
"𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘧..."
"𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨.”
a beautiful sports romance with a small town setting, the problem with players highlights a second chance love story between avery, a high school boys baseball coach and nathan, an ex-MLB athlete. both have suffered tragic losses, thwarted relationships and battles with depression but their sheer will to push forward and show up for the people they love is their driving force onwards and towards each other.
despite some slower pacing for the first 50-75 pages, i completely devoured this book! i love a well-done forced proximity black cat/golden retriever dynamic and this one 1000% delivered. avery has one of the most precious relationships with her family (especially her step-dad who just poured out so much adoration for her) and i’m so looking forward to picking up other books in this world that showcase the stories of her sisters!
i love a shameless flirt mmc and nathan?!?! sir, i adore everything about you 🧎🏻♀️ a true acts of service man who’s not afraid to let his girl take the lead. every time he spoke, i was smiling so big and rooting for avery to finally let her walls down so he could come crashing in
TW: this book touches on some heavier topics such as dealing with depression, loss of a friend to su*cide, loss of parents, and mentions of alcohol/substance abuse. i rly appreciated the mental health aspects and thought they were so carefully approached and explored with gentle but impactful intention.
thank you so much to valentine pr for this gifted advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest thoughts!
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