Playing for Keeps

Miami Piranhas, Book 1

By: Beth Bolden

Narrated by: Darcy Stark

Sebastian Howard is the best damn cornerback in the NFL.

Or at least he was.

Age and injuries have taken a toll, and while most people have written him off, Sebastian isn’t ready to acknowledge that at only 32, he’s already in the twilight of his career.

He signs with the Miami Piranhas intending to prove everyone wrong, only to realize that the head coach’s son, out-and-proud Beau Dawson, doesn’t believe he can.

Beau is infuriating but brilliant, and when he offers to help him on the field, Sebastian wants to say yes, but there’s one thing stopping him: the unexpected, inconvenient, and all-consuming crush he doesn’t want to have on Beau.

But Beau isn’t interested in playing it safe, with football or with anything else, and soon they’re embroiled in a hot—and secret—affair that would finish Sebastian’s career if Coach Dawson found out.

As Sebastian falls harder for Beau, he begins to realize that actually the worst thing in the world isn’t getting benched, but losing the man he loves.

©2022 Earl Gray Publishing LLC (P)2023 Earl Gray Publishing LLC

Piranhas

I've enjoyed Beth's previous football stories and was looking forward to this one. Not only is a great story that tells the relationship between player and coach, I love all the football references too. (Husband listening commented on how good the details were.) Darcy Stark's southern accent really brought Beau to life for me. I loved the varying voices and although it took me a minute to get used to it, it was worth every minute. I'm looking forward to hearing more about the Piranha players. Loved that Alex got a part in this story too. (Nice intro to next story in the end, has me hooked and anxiously awaiting the next story.)

Loved it!

The narration added to the story and I felt immersed in the story all over again. I really liked the dynamic between Sebastian, who is a veteran in the NFL and signs with another team to prove he still has what it takes. There he meets the coach's son, Beau, who has a brilliant mind and knows football inside and out. When he suggests Sebastian move position, the man is hesitant, but willing to work with Beau. Their chemistry is off the charts but of course the team can't know about them. I enjoyed getting to know both men and watching how their romance developed, despite all the pressures that want to tear them apart.

God Bless Darcy Stark and his Sebastian voice

I don't know how he did it but Darcy made my knees week with Sebastian's voice. Holy Guacamole.

I knew I'd like the book because I already read the ebook but WOW the audiobook did not disappoint.

Love Beth Bolden

Playing for Keeps

If you have not read the Miami Piranhas series by Beth Bolden, add it to your list. This was book one and you are meeting the guys you will come to love throughout the series. If you are an audible book fan, Darcy takes time to create each character as he reads them. I am still new to listening to the audible books but it definitely gives you a different perspective of the characters! I love Beth Bolden stories because she brings them to life so well and you want to keep reading to see what they will do next!

Excellent Sports Romance

A steamy and fun sports romance! I really enjoyed the performance by the narrator, who was able to bring Beau and Sebastian’s sizzling chemistry to life. The football side of the plot is very well done, and I loved that is was an important part of the story. It’s really good well rounded storytelling, realistic team dynamics, great side characters, and real depth and emotion in the relationship. A wonderful listen.