REVIEW: The Name of the Game by Jennifer Dawson

The Name of the Game by Jennifer Dawson: The last thing Gracie wants in her life is commitment, let alone commitment to uptight, health-obsessed James. But, when she finally realizes the passion underneath their yearlong acquaintance is one of attraction and not hate, she decides she needs to give them a weekend to work it out.

James would love to work out their troubles in bed, but when Gracie offers, he refuses. Wanting a woman to actually like and respect him before they go to bed. So, to get them off to a better spot he decides he needs to take Gracie on a date.

“What does not liking Cheetos have to do with judging you?”
“I’m just saying this is why we’re not compatible.”
“Still not getting it. Are you such a huge fan you require your dates to eat a bag before you go out?”

From there, the passion never ends, only getting bigger and bigger. But can the impetuous baker and the responsible professor get along after all?

Gracie and James had the sort of relationship where I could gladly listen to them just talk to each other the entire story. With great repartee, I adored just them being in the same room with them and all their sexual undertones. The bedroom passion and their very hot spark just made fantastic even better. And for me what made it even better, James had this sexy possessive and dominant thing where Gracie is “his” woman going on that makes me swoon every time.

And beyond the sexy, it is such a fun story. The dichotomy between James and Gracie was adorable and perfect, although I felt Gracie overreact just a bit at points. But James’ breaking point in the climax, one of my favorites ever. So well worth it. And it really was quite amusing him flail at trying a romance with Gracie who’s so very unlike every other woman he dated. The development, too, was spot on for me. There were moments with James’ nephew that made me fall in love with both James and Gracie even more.

I loved all their family and friends, too, and I’m definitely super excited for the next in the series. And while it is the third in a series, it isn’t necessary to read the first two to understand and appreciate the story. Although I’d highly recommend it, I certainly plan on reading them. For any romance reader who loves a good love-to-hate romance, or fiery passion, or any sexy romance I highly recommend The Name of the Game by Jennifer Dawson.

Book Info:

Publication: September 29, 2015 | Zebra | Something New #3

Some people follow the rules. . .

A professor of forensic anthropology, James Donovan is the reasonable sibling among the passionate, impulsive Donovans. But there’s nothing reasonable about his reaction to baker Gracie Roberts. She’s all wild curls and mouth-watering curves, as deliciously tempting as the sugary treats she’s famous for–and twice as irritating. But before long, James decides that getting a taste of her is one indulgence he can’t pass up. . .

Some people play to win. . .

Independent, smart, and sexy, Gracie’s year-long dry spell has her itching for a man. Responsible, health-obsessed James? Not in a million years! She needs a guy who knows how to let loose! But when James sets out to show her just how satisfying a disciplined man can be when pleasure is at stake, she learns just how sweet–and spicy–he really is.

Have James and Gracie found the recipe for love?