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Becoming an Evans #1
More Than the Game
Trending on social media is her nightmare.
Beth Evans, former Olympic golden girl, known for a national scandal and daughter of a rising political star, is more than happy to stay out of the spotlight, living life as a normal single mom in a small Jersey town. The last thing Beth needs is Twitter’s favorite bad boy–Marc Demoda–walking into her life to stir things up.
Marc lives for the three b’s; baseball, bars, and ball bunnies, until the unthinkable happened. An accident destroys his shoulder and his career, leaving him desperate to get back in the game. Too bad no one hires notorious bad boys to coach. With his reputation on life support, Marc finds his saving grace might be the feisty blonde he can’t get out of his head.
When pictures of Beth and Marc’s chance encounter blow up on Twitter, they strike a deal to avoid further scandals and fix their image. But even in the harsh public spotlight, their fake relationship begins to feel real. Beth's growing feelings for Marc have her questioning if she can permanently handle the limelight, just as Marc wonders if Beth might mean more than the game.
Beth Evans, former Olympic golden girl, known for a national scandal and daughter of a rising political star, is more than happy to stay out of the spotlight, living life as a normal single mom in a small Jersey town. The last thing Beth needs is Twitter’s favorite bad boy–Marc Demoda–walking into her life to stir things up.
Marc lives for the three b’s; baseball, bars, and ball bunnies, until the unthinkable happened. An accident destroys his shoulder and his career, leaving him desperate to get back in the game. Too bad no one hires notorious bad boys to coach. With his reputation on life support, Marc finds his saving grace might be the feisty blonde he can’t get out of his head.
When pictures of Beth and Marc’s chance encounter blow up on Twitter, they strike a deal to avoid further scandals and fix their image. But even in the harsh public spotlight, their fake relationship begins to feel real. Beth's growing feelings for Marc have her questioning if she can permanently handle the limelight, just as Marc wonders if Beth might mean more than the game.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2021
About the author
Jenni Bara
17 books386 followersJenni Bara lives in New Jersey working as a paralegal in family law, writing real-life unhappily ever-afters every day. In turn, she spends her free time with anything that keeps her laughing, including life with four kids, or five, if you count her husband. She is just starting her career as a romance author writing books with a great balance of life, love, and laughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
May 6, 2022
Tropes: fake dating
This was a sweet, angst filled single mom x bad boy baseball player romance and I ate it up!!! Marc and Beth have such sizzling chemistry I couldn’t put this book down. There’s nothing I love more than a hero who ‘doesn’t do relationships’ who then proceeds to fall head over heels for the heroine!
This was a sweet, angst filled single mom x bad boy baseball player romance and I ate it up!!! Marc and Beth have such sizzling chemistry I couldn’t put this book down. There’s nothing I love more than a hero who ‘doesn’t do relationships’ who then proceeds to fall head over heels for the heroine!
December 1, 2022
Cute read
July 9, 2022
3 ⭐⭐⭐ - OK decent reads.
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But she stayed away from all social media platforms like a person with a severe tree nut allergy would avoid a cashew.
As a single mother of two and currently a babysitter of five, the dirty dishes piled up fast. And she hated doing dishes.
One word from her father was all it took to remind her why she didn’t want the Campbell money. He had never let her forget how she’d practically ruined the family’s good name, and staying out of his way—and out of his debt—were close to the top of her list of priorities.
He was a baseball player, not a repairman. He needed to remember that.
She wasn’t by any stretch of the imagination the leggy, big-breasted type of woman that typically caught his attention, but something about her stole his breath. She was fresh-faced, completely unmade-up, a bit frazzled, but somehow sexy.
He knew how it worked. Twitter, Instagram—media in general had been his best friend through the years.
He wasn’t in the mood to stay and talk about how to use Beth for his own benefit. Hell, he shouldn’t be thinking about her at all.
He kept replaying Austin’s words in his head. Find one that you can keep around for a while. Marc didn’t want that. If it hadn’t been for the car accident, none of this would matter.
This woman just wasn’t his type; she was interestingly different, and once he figured her out, she’d lose her appeal.
“Sorry, hotshot. I make it a point not to sleep with anyone I read about in a magazine,” she whispered before backing up and leaving him. Again.
And Beth was right about not being his type. She was beautiful, but it wasn’t like she was irresistible.
Their answer was three weeks, since it had been three weeks ago that Marc had slept with another woman. He didn’t know who she was, just some random girl.
“A clearly delineated, well-understood, temporary relationship—because I don’t want to hurt you. I know you’re the kind of woman who wants forever, and I’m never going to be the guy who can offer that.” “I realize that, Marc.”
He didn’t plan to make any permanent commitment, but for now, he would enjoy Beth and their kids. Whoa. Her kids. He would enjoy Beth and her kids.
“Glove up; be respectful,” Will said. Another Beth rule.
“I won’t be the guy you grow old with; we’ve agreed on that. But we’re not done yet. After what just happened between us, you can’t think anything different. There’s no reason we have to walk away just because a piece of paper says so.”
“Marc, that’s not true. You’re great with Mandy and Steve.” “That’s different. I’d resent the sacrifices a parent has to make for their kids. Unlike you—you do it for people who aren’t even your kids.”
“I don’t need to ask for your permission. You don’t get to decide what job I take, Beth.” She didn’t know where that had come from. “What? I never expected to have a say in what you decided, Marc.”
They didn’t have love, they didn’t have trust, and apparently, they didn’t even have a friendship. She’d thought she was different from his other girls, but now she knew she wasn’t. She had just lasted longer.
March 8, 2024
I could’ve enjoyed this story but the kindle unlimited edition is in desperate need of an editor! The author must’ve switched from third person to first person while writing and there were so many instances where it wasn’t changed.
February 10, 2022
First thing first—I love how each chapter starts with tweets! It sets up the scene perfectly and I was bummed I didn’t think of it first. 😂 That alone captured my attention because I love it when author tries something different to keep our genre (romance) fresh!
Now that we have that out of the way, let’s get to the book. What stood out the most for me aside from the stellar writing is the way Jenni painted a very relatable and believable family dynamics. We’ve all met a (or are even part of) family like this in our lives so it was easy to identify with them. Marc and Beth’s interaction with them affected some of decisions they made, making their characters multi dimensional.
Even though the focal point of the story is the budding romance story between Marc and Beth, Jenni Bara incorporated family tension to add depth to the story, creating a page turning book.
I love Beth’s character. I could picture her as my neighbor and friend because of how ‘everyday- person’ she is and I don’t mean that in a negative kind of way. She was just well rounded and thinks and acts the way a real person in her shoes would think and act.
I also admire how Jenni subtly addressed some social issues that were very timely. Intentional or not, these are the kinds of books that leave an impression on me. For that—thank you!
If you need another reason to pick this book up, three words— sexy and steamy.
I am now two out of two in ‘Fake Relationship’ book and I must admit, I am becoming a fan!
Now that we have that out of the way, let’s get to the book. What stood out the most for me aside from the stellar writing is the way Jenni painted a very relatable and believable family dynamics. We’ve all met a (or are even part of) family like this in our lives so it was easy to identify with them. Marc and Beth’s interaction with them affected some of decisions they made, making their characters multi dimensional.
Even though the focal point of the story is the budding romance story between Marc and Beth, Jenni Bara incorporated family tension to add depth to the story, creating a page turning book.
I love Beth’s character. I could picture her as my neighbor and friend because of how ‘everyday- person’ she is and I don’t mean that in a negative kind of way. She was just well rounded and thinks and acts the way a real person in her shoes would think and act.
I also admire how Jenni subtly addressed some social issues that were very timely. Intentional or not, these are the kinds of books that leave an impression on me. For that—thank you!
If you need another reason to pick this book up, three words— sexy and steamy.
I am now two out of two in ‘Fake Relationship’ book and I must admit, I am becoming a fan!
September 11, 2021
More than the Game
*ARC Review*
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@jennibarabooks
I don’t think there is any way I can adequately describe how much I love these characters. Not only are Marc & Beth amazing & their chemistry off the charts, but the secondary characters will make you love them as well. I just can’t get enough of their whole family- their tight knit relationships & dedication to each other will melt your heart. I was actually pretty sad when the book ended, not because of the plot (there is a HEA!), but because I wanted more! Hopefully we will hear more from the Evanses in the future?? (Seriously, go read this book. You’ll love it!)
*ARC Review*
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
@jennibarabooks
I don’t think there is any way I can adequately describe how much I love these characters. Not only are Marc & Beth amazing & their chemistry off the charts, but the secondary characters will make you love them as well. I just can’t get enough of their whole family- their tight knit relationships & dedication to each other will melt your heart. I was actually pretty sad when the book ended, not because of the plot (there is a HEA!), but because I wanted more! Hopefully we will hear more from the Evanses in the future?? (Seriously, go read this book. You’ll love it!)
August 21, 2021
What I loved most about this one is how much of a backstory and how much depth these characters have without it spoiling the pace of the here and now and the story being told. I like the social media battles that this brings up too- think a lot of people can relate to the perks and pitfalls of social media. Definitely believe in the story, and I think its a wonderful romance, and the gestures Marc makes is simply adorable. A great love story, lots packed in.
August 17, 2021
Marc DeModa 4ever ❤️🔥💘❤️🔥💘 I loved this story. Everything about it. Sweet and sexy and steamy, oh my!
August 14, 2021
Love this book. Couldn’t put it down. Perfect combination of funny and steamy!! Definitely a must read.
August 20, 2021
Love the family, the tweets at the beginning of the chapters. Really well written. This was my first book by Jenni and will definitely read more. I received this ARC from the Author and this review is voluntary. Good book a must read with heat and comedy.
August 18, 2021
Couldn't put this book down. The tweets at the top of each chapter was such a cute idea and played so well into the story. Can't wait for the next one from this author.
September 14, 2021
This is a must read!
A perfect combination of chemistry and emotionally rich characters. I couldn't put it down, and got completely swept up in Beth and Marc's love story!
A perfect combination of chemistry and emotionally rich characters. I couldn't put it down, and got completely swept up in Beth and Marc's love story!
August 21, 2021
I enjoyed this one. It had just the right amount of conflict, romance, and steam. I look forward to reading more as the series expands.
For me, 3 stars indicates a solid read that I would recommend.
For me, 3 stars indicates a solid read that I would recommend.
September 5, 2021
I started reading “More Than the Game” knowing it was a ‘fake relationship’ trope story. In reality, however, author Jenni Bara has created a book that is much more than that. This is a story about the family that we are born into and the family that we choose for ourselves. It’s about how we don’t have to let the blood in our veins define who we are. And it’s about choosing love.
Beth is an Olympic gold medalist, a young widow, a mother, a sister, a friend, and a humanitarian. Her father is a high-level career politician. When Beth was still a teenager she was embroiled in a huge, salacious scandal that almost completely severed her already shaky relationship with her father and his ‘family values’ political persona. Media attention at the time completely tore apart her life.
Marc had a very successful career as a pitcher in major league baseball. Life experience (particularly witnessing the marriage of his parents), has taught him that there’s no such thing as happily ever after. His image on social media is that of a party guy playboy, which has not bothered him at all – in fact, he welcomed it. Now, though, it’s hurting his chances of getting a non-playing job in baseball and that’s a big problem for him.
This book has a multilayered plot I certainly don’t want to spoil for you, but as you know from the book blurb, Beth and Marc end up paired off as a temporary solution to several problems after cameras catch them together. Beth needs to create certain optics to not damage her father’s current political campaign. Marc needs to be seen as a more serious and reliable man. But what happens when feelings get involved … ?
There are lots of strong emotions in this story, balanced nicely by moments of passion, laughter, and fun. Secondary characters in the book are fantastic. They include the many brothers of Beth’s late husband, who she considers her own brothers. They also include her children with their great personalities, and her boyfriend from a long time ago, who happens to have a connection to Marc. Oh, and Marc’s agent and his wife are also excellent. Even the unlikable characters are depicted so clearly that you can practically see and hear them in your mind. Once I started reading this story, I couldn’t put it down, and I think that’s the biggest compliment I can give. It seems likely that we’re going to get books about the brothers, and I can’t wait!
I read an advance reader copy of this book and I'm sharing my honest opinion.
Beth is an Olympic gold medalist, a young widow, a mother, a sister, a friend, and a humanitarian. Her father is a high-level career politician. When Beth was still a teenager she was embroiled in a huge, salacious scandal that almost completely severed her already shaky relationship with her father and his ‘family values’ political persona. Media attention at the time completely tore apart her life.
Marc had a very successful career as a pitcher in major league baseball. Life experience (particularly witnessing the marriage of his parents), has taught him that there’s no such thing as happily ever after. His image on social media is that of a party guy playboy, which has not bothered him at all – in fact, he welcomed it. Now, though, it’s hurting his chances of getting a non-playing job in baseball and that’s a big problem for him.
This book has a multilayered plot I certainly don’t want to spoil for you, but as you know from the book blurb, Beth and Marc end up paired off as a temporary solution to several problems after cameras catch them together. Beth needs to create certain optics to not damage her father’s current political campaign. Marc needs to be seen as a more serious and reliable man. But what happens when feelings get involved … ?
There are lots of strong emotions in this story, balanced nicely by moments of passion, laughter, and fun. Secondary characters in the book are fantastic. They include the many brothers of Beth’s late husband, who she considers her own brothers. They also include her children with their great personalities, and her boyfriend from a long time ago, who happens to have a connection to Marc. Oh, and Marc’s agent and his wife are also excellent. Even the unlikable characters are depicted so clearly that you can practically see and hear them in your mind. Once I started reading this story, I couldn’t put it down, and I think that’s the biggest compliment I can give. It seems likely that we’re going to get books about the brothers, and I can’t wait!
I read an advance reader copy of this book and I'm sharing my honest opinion.
September 20, 2021
Absolutely loved! Finally, a reformed-bad-boy-turned-family-man story that is actually believable! (And in a debut book, too! That is the first in a series! My cup runneth over... :))
Newly-former major league pitcher Marc Demoda is all about staying in the public's eye. It's always been a positive for him...until now. Now he needs some image rehab, and quick. Just as soon as he does a few quick jobs at his dad's appliance repair shop, that is. Then he'll fix his image, get a job back in baseball, and start living his life again.
Beth Evans stays as far out of the spotlight as she can--she doesn't even have social media accounts. A former Olympic gymnast and daughter of a current and rising politician, her image has never recovered from an earlier scandal--even though all the men involved, even peripherally, came out looking better than ever. She's been content to live a quiet life with her kids and former husband's family, grudgingly but obediently doing public events as demanded by her dad's team. But then her dishwasher conks out...
Marc's never been a family kind of guy, but he can't get Beth and her crew out of his head. When an unfortunate picture in the press ties the two of them together, his agent and her father's publicist put together a deal: a fake summer relationship that will fix his playboy image and appease her father's "family values" constituency. No sweat, right? Beth's seven(!) "brothers" will be able to keep Marc in line, and she'll be able to keep him at a distance, right?
Right????
I mean, we know where this is going to go, right? We've read this story before...except, have we, really? I honestly can't think of another bad-boy-gone-good story that I've read recently that seemed so genuine. Even when I wanted to smack Marc upside the head (much like his best friends, and every single one of the Evans brothers) Ms Bara made me understand why he was behaving the way he was. I didn't like it, but I understood. And because he was being a total dufus and everyone knew it but him, it didn't take too much for him to figure himself out in the end--thank goodness. Because that ending and that epilogue? So. Dang. Good.
I will be stalking Ms Bara's GR page like nobody's business, anxiously awaiting the Evans brothers' books. Can't. Wait!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Newly-former major league pitcher Marc Demoda is all about staying in the public's eye. It's always been a positive for him...until now. Now he needs some image rehab, and quick. Just as soon as he does a few quick jobs at his dad's appliance repair shop, that is. Then he'll fix his image, get a job back in baseball, and start living his life again.
Beth Evans stays as far out of the spotlight as she can--she doesn't even have social media accounts. A former Olympic gymnast and daughter of a current and rising politician, her image has never recovered from an earlier scandal--even though all the men involved, even peripherally, came out looking better than ever. She's been content to live a quiet life with her kids and former husband's family, grudgingly but obediently doing public events as demanded by her dad's team. But then her dishwasher conks out...
Marc's never been a family kind of guy, but he can't get Beth and her crew out of his head. When an unfortunate picture in the press ties the two of them together, his agent and her father's publicist put together a deal: a fake summer relationship that will fix his playboy image and appease her father's "family values" constituency. No sweat, right? Beth's seven(!) "brothers" will be able to keep Marc in line, and she'll be able to keep him at a distance, right?
Right????
I mean, we know where this is going to go, right? We've read this story before...except, have we, really? I honestly can't think of another bad-boy-gone-good story that I've read recently that seemed so genuine. Even when I wanted to smack Marc upside the head (much like his best friends, and every single one of the Evans brothers) Ms Bara made me understand why he was behaving the way he was. I didn't like it, but I understood. And because he was being a total dufus and everyone knew it but him, it didn't take too much for him to figure himself out in the end--thank goodness. Because that ending and that epilogue? So. Dang. Good.
I will be stalking Ms Bara's GR page like nobody's business, anxiously awaiting the Evans brothers' books. Can't. Wait!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 15, 2021
More Than the Game is Jenni's debut novel and it is terrific. A fake relationship romance with an injured ballplayer and a single mom just trying to survive. Jenni does an amazing job of including detailed backstories and has you emotionally attached to the main characters, Marc and Beth. The idea of the family you are born into and the family that you choose to be with is dealt with in this book. She adds a tweet at the beginning of each chapter that gives you little insights as well as a chuckle once in a while.
Beth is a single parent of two loving children since her husband passed away. She is also the daughter of a politician that she would rather not be. Beth was also a gold medal Olympian but wants to be in the shadows instead of the spotlight. She takes care of a few other children as well. She is involved with Helping Hands a charity, which is how she meets Marc. She needed her dishwasher fixed and called in for help to Demoda Repairs. Well in walks Marc the injured famous ballplayer and that is the last thing she needs in her life. What will happen when he keeps coming around? How will her chosen family feel about and deal with Marc? They decided to scratch an itch but can it stop there? When a contract is signed to have a fake relationship, will the lines get blurred? Can Beth keep her feeling in check?
Marc is a baseball player that loves to live the life of a playboy, different night means a different woman. He is helping out his dad's business while he is off injured. He walks into Beth's chaos and is taken back. In front of him is a woman that seems to holding it together and he is intrigued by her. He keeps going back because there is just seems to be something about her that draws him to her. He decides that he wants to know more about her and decides to act up his feelings. When they are caught together and it blows up on Twitter a contract is made to help each other out, a fake relationship. Will this make things worse for Beth and better for Marc?
I thoroughly loved this story. The chemistry between Beth and Marc was off the charts. The introduction to Beth's chosen family added some chuckles to this emotional and sweet romance. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Beth is a single parent of two loving children since her husband passed away. She is also the daughter of a politician that she would rather not be. Beth was also a gold medal Olympian but wants to be in the shadows instead of the spotlight. She takes care of a few other children as well. She is involved with Helping Hands a charity, which is how she meets Marc. She needed her dishwasher fixed and called in for help to Demoda Repairs. Well in walks Marc the injured famous ballplayer and that is the last thing she needs in her life. What will happen when he keeps coming around? How will her chosen family feel about and deal with Marc? They decided to scratch an itch but can it stop there? When a contract is signed to have a fake relationship, will the lines get blurred? Can Beth keep her feeling in check?
Marc is a baseball player that loves to live the life of a playboy, different night means a different woman. He is helping out his dad's business while he is off injured. He walks into Beth's chaos and is taken back. In front of him is a woman that seems to holding it together and he is intrigued by her. He keeps going back because there is just seems to be something about her that draws him to her. He decides that he wants to know more about her and decides to act up his feelings. When they are caught together and it blows up on Twitter a contract is made to help each other out, a fake relationship. Will this make things worse for Beth and better for Marc?
I thoroughly loved this story. The chemistry between Beth and Marc was off the charts. The introduction to Beth's chosen family added some chuckles to this emotional and sweet romance. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
July 4, 2022
Marc is a baseball player who retired after an injury. He has been living on the fast lane and needs some good press. Beth, on the other hand, wants no press. She has fielded a scandal in her youth and needs to shield her kids now. Marc and Beth are attracted to each other but he doesn't think he could give anyone forever. His father keeps telling him that relationships would get in the way of a future coaching career. When they get photographed kissing Beth's father who is in the middle of a political campaign wants them to date in order to look good for the press. Her late husband's brothers and an ex stick their spoons into the soup.
This started a bit slow and I am not a fan of the third person narrative style so my attention wandered when I first started it but I liked the story better when I got back to it.
Marc is the more interesting character, Beth was a little too perfect, apart from the scandal that wasn't her fault. Everyone loves her, she is beautiful, a stellar athlete, she will sacrifice anything and help everyone, donates her money to charity, parents her children patiently and conscientiously, babysits everyone else's kids and so on.
Steam level: several scenes of sexual nature.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This started a bit slow and I am not a fan of the third person narrative style so my attention wandered when I first started it but I liked the story better when I got back to it.
Marc is the more interesting character, Beth was a little too perfect, apart from the scandal that wasn't her fault. Everyone loves her, she is beautiful, a stellar athlete, she will sacrifice anything and help everyone, donates her money to charity, parents her children patiently and conscientiously, babysits everyone else's kids and so on.
Steam level: several scenes of sexual nature.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2021
More Than The Game by Jenni Bara is another debut this year.
We are living in a world where social media live their own lives, dictate trends and make up stories. It doesn’t matter if it is true or not, how harmful and devastating people live sometimes. Perfect example of it is Beth, who experienced it on her own skin. Single mum who wants to stay away from the spotlights and Marc, injured player who's trying to get back to the game and to repair his image. The memory of their first encounter over a broken dishwasher still brings back a wide smile on my face.
It’s light, fast-paced read, full of laughter, banter between siblings, and the free speech of children only completing the picture. The chemistry between Beth and Marc is undeniable from the very beginning, their affection growing and developing into sth better and more beautiful. Those two are a perfect match, supporting each other, finding peace and comfort in each other's arms.
I’ve received an Arc copy in exchange for honest and voluntary opinion.
We are living in a world where social media live their own lives, dictate trends and make up stories. It doesn’t matter if it is true or not, how harmful and devastating people live sometimes. Perfect example of it is Beth, who experienced it on her own skin. Single mum who wants to stay away from the spotlights and Marc, injured player who's trying to get back to the game and to repair his image. The memory of their first encounter over a broken dishwasher still brings back a wide smile on my face.
It’s light, fast-paced read, full of laughter, banter between siblings, and the free speech of children only completing the picture. The chemistry between Beth and Marc is undeniable from the very beginning, their affection growing and developing into sth better and more beautiful. Those two are a perfect match, supporting each other, finding peace and comfort in each other's arms.
I’ve received an Arc copy in exchange for honest and voluntary opinion.
October 4, 2021
Great story
More Than The Game by Jenni Bara.
This author was new to me and I’m glad I had a chance to read her book. I must be honest I’m not a fan of third person narrative books so I was not sure I was going to enjoy this book. As I kept reading I was surprised I was into it. The way the author wrote made me over look the format it was written and I actually really enjoyed it. I love any single mom well parent book being a single parent my self I love the genre. This book is about Beth who is a single mother who has a little spitfire of a daughter which I loved throughout the book. She is use to living on the negative side of the spotlight due to being a former Olympian golden girl and her fathers political career. Marc is a baseball player who is used to getting all the perks of a player until he hurts his shoulder. They meet in a funny way a dishwasher of all things to meet over but it made it funny and enjoyable. This book is great it’s a fake relationship that eventually grown to more. It is warming and charming. You will feel a bit of frustrating while reading it as well as sadness but above all happiness. I recommend this to anyone looking for a light hearted single mom/ bad boy book.
More Than The Game by Jenni Bara.
This author was new to me and I’m glad I had a chance to read her book. I must be honest I’m not a fan of third person narrative books so I was not sure I was going to enjoy this book. As I kept reading I was surprised I was into it. The way the author wrote made me over look the format it was written and I actually really enjoyed it. I love any single mom well parent book being a single parent my self I love the genre. This book is about Beth who is a single mother who has a little spitfire of a daughter which I loved throughout the book. She is use to living on the negative side of the spotlight due to being a former Olympian golden girl and her fathers political career. Marc is a baseball player who is used to getting all the perks of a player until he hurts his shoulder. They meet in a funny way a dishwasher of all things to meet over but it made it funny and enjoyable. This book is great it’s a fake relationship that eventually grown to more. It is warming and charming. You will feel a bit of frustrating while reading it as well as sadness but above all happiness. I recommend this to anyone looking for a light hearted single mom/ bad boy book.
September 7, 2021
This book has so many fun and complex story lines, larger than life personalities and a fiercely loyal family you can’t get enough of! Beth is a force to be reckoned with and the glue that holds everyone together. The resilience she shows in this story is remarkable but watching her fall in love is perfection.
‘Beth swayed and shook to a beat he couldn’t hear, and he watched this beautiful creature who continued to amaze him with her ability to enjoy the hell out of life.’
Each time Marc steps up, Beth finds a little more of herself. By being there for her, he unknowingly becomes who he’s always meant to be. There’s so much goodness behind the walls he’s built and together they’re the perfect compliment.
This is definitely a great start to the Evans family series!
I received a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
‘Beth swayed and shook to a beat he couldn’t hear, and he watched this beautiful creature who continued to amaze him with her ability to enjoy the hell out of life.’
Each time Marc steps up, Beth finds a little more of herself. By being there for her, he unknowingly becomes who he’s always meant to be. There’s so much goodness behind the walls he’s built and together they’re the perfect compliment.
This is definitely a great start to the Evans family series!
I received a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2022
Rom-Com, Sports Romance (baseball) - 263 pages
Plot
They get thrown into a fake relationship, without their consent. That’s all you’re going to get from me about what happens IN the book. Hahaha.
Okay, but really. This book was so good. I stayed up half the night reading it last night and not just to get it in on my May count (since I already put it in my wrap up yesterday). It was just that good. The MMC is a total asshat and the FMC is amazing (of course). I swear she’s superwoman in disguise. I really really wanted to hate them together, but honestly they made each other better people. (oops is that a spoiler? IDK, but too late.)
I know the author said that this was her least favorite book in the Becoming an Evans series, but it set the bar pretty high for me so I’m excited to check out book 2.
Recommended ages 18+
A lil spicy
Rated 5 of 5 (if you can make me fall for an asshat then you win)
August 23, 2021
More Than the Game is a fantastic debut novel by Jenni Bara.
Beth is a single Mom who began her adult life in the media’s spotlight, and not in a favourable way. She’s spent the last ten years trying to stay out of the papers. That is, until Marc.
Marc is baseball’s bad boy who loves the media’s attention. Thrust into a fake relationship with Beth for the sake of appearances, he starts to see the downside to fame.
The novel is a heartfelt, emotional read that will leave you falling in love with all of the characters. Beth and Marc make you feel all the emotions (happy, sad, frustration) but done in a way that still make you love them.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys an emotional journey to a couple’s happily ever after.
Beth is a single Mom who began her adult life in the media’s spotlight, and not in a favourable way. She’s spent the last ten years trying to stay out of the papers. That is, until Marc.
Marc is baseball’s bad boy who loves the media’s attention. Thrust into a fake relationship with Beth for the sake of appearances, he starts to see the downside to fame.
The novel is a heartfelt, emotional read that will leave you falling in love with all of the characters. Beth and Marc make you feel all the emotions (happy, sad, frustration) but done in a way that still make you love them.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys an emotional journey to a couple’s happily ever after.
August 24, 2021
A single mother and an ex baseball star meet over a dishwasher, the most perfectly unusual and awkward beginning to a love story ever. I loved everything about these characters. From the spunky daughter who will have you in stitches, to the overprotective brothers, this story has a cast of characters that keeps you turning the pages. Marc is the typical bad boy turned family man after meeting Beth, the overextended, stressed out mother/sister. An unlikely pair but it works. They each support the other in ways they never thought they needed and both are changed for the better by the end. Even as outside forces threaten to tear them apart, Marc and Beth conquer the odds for their love. Dance in the rain with Marc and Beth. You won't be disappointed.
September 8, 2021
How can I become a member of the Evans family? Seriously, I want in! I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Third person POV is not normally my go-to, but this book had me engaged the entire time. I binge read. Sometimes I skip to the end of books, but the writing here kept me wanting to know more but also rooted in the moment (so for once, I did not read ahead!). I loved this whole family and Marc and Beth’s love story was a fun ride to go on. I loved how adorably oblivious Marc was to the female thought process and how uncertain Beth was about Marc’s desire for her. I binge read this book as fast as my kids would allow and I already can’t wait for the next one! Highly recommend!
November 22, 2021
More than a Game is a great fake relationship romance by Jenni Bara. I feel into this book easily and ended up being unable to put it down.
I absolutely love Marc and Beth. Their relationship is great, and everything between them is enjoyable.
There's a lot going on in their story. Both characters are well developed and multi-layered.
Of course, their story also brings to light the downfalls of being in the public eye, and the harsh treatment one can face on social media. This is all to relatable and hard to read at times.
This is a story with a wonderful group of secondary characters, who fully pull you into their orbit. If you enjoy lovable families, look no further.
The writing is great, with plenty of heart, humor, and life brought into this story. The tweets are hysterical, the family is heart warming, and the romance is sweet.
More than the Game is so much more than I was expecting. This Jenni Bara book is a wonderful sports romance that's compelling, charming, and riveting. Definitely check it out.
I absolutely love Marc and Beth. Their relationship is great, and everything between them is enjoyable.
There's a lot going on in their story. Both characters are well developed and multi-layered.
Of course, their story also brings to light the downfalls of being in the public eye, and the harsh treatment one can face on social media. This is all to relatable and hard to read at times.
This is a story with a wonderful group of secondary characters, who fully pull you into their orbit. If you enjoy lovable families, look no further.
The writing is great, with plenty of heart, humor, and life brought into this story. The tweets are hysterical, the family is heart warming, and the romance is sweet.
More than the Game is so much more than I was expecting. This Jenni Bara book is a wonderful sports romance that's compelling, charming, and riveting. Definitely check it out.
September 8, 2021
You know when you close a book and your heart feels full and you have a big old grin on your face.
Yup this book makes you do that.
This author has such a wonderful way with words, and building the Evans family relationships and portrays normal family life. The banter between the siblings made my heart swell. Showing the chaos and love of all the side characters in a big family isn't an easy feat but Jenni pulls it off beautifully. Everyone plays there part.
A wonderful debut novel that I highly recommend.
I received an Advanced Reader copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Yup this book makes you do that.
This author has such a wonderful way with words, and building the Evans family relationships and portrays normal family life. The banter between the siblings made my heart swell. Showing the chaos and love of all the side characters in a big family isn't an easy feat but Jenni pulls it off beautifully. Everyone plays there part.
A wonderful debut novel that I highly recommend.
I received an Advanced Reader copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
September 8, 2021
This is the first book by this author I've read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book starts out with an entirely original meet-cute between Beth and Marc. And Beth's daughter the hilarious three year old made it even better! The laughs continue through the book as the tension grows between Marc and Beth. The book tackles issues of social media that are relevant today while still giving the reader laughs and feels and even a few tears. I was thoroughly invested in both characters straight from the start. I cant wait to read the next one from Jenni.
October 3, 2021
This just happened! Don't check the genre... Just read the book!
Me: (Looking at Blurb) Oh! That's sounds fascinating!
Also me: but you don't usually read sport romance...
Me: but... I really like the blurb! Let's have a peak...
Also me: Well?
Me: I am only at chapter 7, Shhh!
Also me: So.... What do you think?
Me: Um, what was the question? Oh yes! I am at Chapter 27 and this better be the beginning of a series or I will be seriously disappointed! Now, Shhh! Stop interrupting!
Also me: so you like it, then?
Me: Shhh! I need to see what happens next!
Trust me on this: It's fun! It's fast paced! Not my usual genre but I will be reading all the books from this series!! I love the writing! Jenni Bara really brings these characters to life. Beth and Marc quickly entwine you into their story... It's not just a game!
What are you waiting for?
Happy Reading! 💖📚
Me: (Looking at Blurb) Oh! That's sounds fascinating!
Also me: but you don't usually read sport romance...
Me: but... I really like the blurb! Let's have a peak...
Also me: Well?
Me: I am only at chapter 7, Shhh!
Also me: So.... What do you think?
Me: Um, what was the question? Oh yes! I am at Chapter 27 and this better be the beginning of a series or I will be seriously disappointed! Now, Shhh! Stop interrupting!
Also me: so you like it, then?
Me: Shhh! I need to see what happens next!
Trust me on this: It's fun! It's fast paced! Not my usual genre but I will be reading all the books from this series!! I love the writing! Jenni Bara really brings these characters to life. Beth and Marc quickly entwine you into their story... It's not just a game!
What are you waiting for?
Happy Reading! 💖📚
February 23, 2023
Holy freaking crap! This was my first time reading something by Jenni Bara, and she completely slayed me (that’s a good thing!) “More Than the Game” is Bara’s debut novel, but you would never guess because it is extremely well written. Marc and Beth’s fake dating romance was incredible, their chemistry was sizzling from the start and I loved every second of their love story. Bara’s writing is witty, engaging, and oh so spicy… this is a book I will definitely be going back to reread!!! I would highly recommend this to any spicy romance lover!!!
August 13, 2021
There are only a few books I can't put down, and More Than the Game was one of them. I wasn't surprised when I looked up after starting Beth and Marc's journey that hours had passed. Bara's writing is funny, fast paced, and romantic. I felt myself smiling, gasping, and tearing up throughout her wonderful debut novel. I already am counting down the hours until her second book is released! You won't be disappointed.
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