The Long Game: A Novel (Volume 1)

I LOVED this book it was one of my most anticipated reads. I loved Adalyn & Cameron. Adalyn was smart, strong capable but jilted and while I did not really like her attitude in the beginning getting to know what really made her be like that softened me up. Cameron was totally swoon worthy! The way he was so caring, protective and soft towards Adalyn and the kids was adorable! This was a slow burn but nowhere I felt like I was bored because all the side characters made this book so much more entertaining especially Maria & Josie! The last half of the book made me feel so many butterflies! I was in a bad mood before reading this book but after; I was delighted because it definitely uplifted my spirit! Overall this was a typical slow burn romance but I know I'll read this book sometime again when I need a dose of joy!

Try various books of same author

I'm not sure what the appeal of this book is - the characters are really unlikeable.The female lead is described as a strong, independent woman multiple times but, in reality, is weak and very codependent. She cannot solve simple problems such as buying herself any shoe that isn't a heel and is very feeble around all male characters, especially her love interests and her father. At one point, she has a chance to stand up for herself and makes a very weak attempt at it rooted in her love interest's instructions rather than her own strength. Her description and actions just don't match.The main male character is worse; I would argue he's emotionally abusive and doesn't respect boundaries. He repeatedly disrespects the female character by calling her names inappropriate for their relationship despite her asking him not to. He treats her like a damsel in distress and barges in to help when she asks him not to. He also drags out what could be tension-building much longer than is necessary and breaks that tension in a controlling way, giving off a predator and prey vibe more than a romantic vibe.Other characters in the book get just weak, short descriptions making it difficult to invest in them.I understand that a romance novel doesn't have to be super deep, but the sharp difference in adjectives and actions for the female and the borderline abusive behavior from the male make me not recommend this book.

I'm just a big pile of mush right now. Cameron and Adalyn's slow-burn romance was so worth the anticipation, with lines and emotions that melted my heart. The chemistry was sizzling, but it was their insecurities and vulnerability that gave me butterflies. Now I wait impatiently for the next book by Elena Armas!!

I can’t say enough good things about this book! I love a book that makes me feel deeply and this did that for me. Adalyn’s story and growth hit me deeply. And Cameron, he is the book boyfriend of my dreams. This book made me weepy in the best of ways with the relatability and love story. This is my new favorite book!