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Playing it Safe

Book 7 in the series:Sydney Smoke Rugby

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'Playing it Safe' by Amy Andrews is a contemporary M M romance novel set in the Sydney Smoke Rugby series. The story follows the journey of Donovan Bane, a closeted rugby player, and Beckett Stanton, an out and proud newcomer to the team. As their relationship develops, they navigate the challenges of secrecy, self-acceptance, and the pressures of professional sports. The book is praised for its well-drawn characters, engaging plot filled with drama and angst, and the chemistry between the protagonists that keeps readers rooting for their happy ever after. Amy Andrews' writing style is commended for its witty dialogue, steamy romance, and vivid descriptions that evoke strong emotions in readers.

Characters:

The characters are well-drawn, with Beckett being confident and open about his identity, while Donovan grapples with his public persona as a rugby player.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions, humorous and emotional dialogue, and engaging internal thoughts that draw readers into the characters' experiences.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative focuses on the character-driven romance between two men, highlighting personal struggles while avoiding external drama.

Setting:

The story is set in the vibrant world of an Australian rugby team, incorporating both workplace and personal settings.

Pacing:

The pacing starts off slow due to internal dialogues but gains momentum as the relationship between the characters evolves.

Notes:

Playing it Safe is set in the world of rugby, focusing on the Sydney Smoke team.
The story features a character named Donovan Bane, a successful rugby player hiding his sexuality.
Beckett Stanton works in the finance department for the Sydney Smoke and is openly gay.
Donovan struggles with his feelings for Beckett while balancing his career and personal life.
The book is recognized as Amy Andrews' first venture into M/M contemporary romance.
Readers appreciate the character-driven approach with low angst in the story.
Donovan's journey involves overcoming fears of being the first openly gay professional rugby player in Australia.
The chemistry between Donovan and Beckett is a central theme, leading to a gradual romantic relationship.
There's significant internal dialogue that explores both characters' thoughts and desires.
The setting involves close contact among team members that fosters bonding and attraction.
The narrative emphasizes the struggle and the emotional depth of LGBTQ+ relationships in sports.
The book is described as passionate, explosive, and emotionally engaging, making it hard for readers to put down.
Reviewers note the vivid and tasteful descriptions of romance and character interactions.
There is a focus on the camaraderie of the rugby team and how it affects personal relationships.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of closeted sexuality, anxiety around acceptance, and potential triggers related to identity struggles.

Has Romance?

There is a strong presence of romance, central to the plot, characterized by intense emotional connections and chemistry.

From The Publisher:

Donovan Bane loves playing rugby for the Sydney Smoke. And if that means he has to keep his sexuality a secret, that's a sacrifice he's prepared to make. At least until after he retires, anyway. He doesn't want to be the first pro rugby player in Australia to officially come out while still playing. The team doesn't need the media shit storm and he'd rather be known for his footy skills. Which means no dating, no relationships, no sex. Nothing but playing ball.

Until one man suddenly changes everything…

Beckett Stanton is out and proud-and not looking for a guy who isn't. Been there, done that, complete disaster. Unfortunately, on the first day of his new job working for the Sydney Smoke, he locks eyes with Donovan Bane and he's a goner. Big, gruff, and athletic isn't usually Beck's type, but for some reason this man is ticking all his boxes. And it's clear the feeling is mutual. It's also clear that Donovan is not out, and doesn't plan to be anytime soon. Still, Beck can't resist being the man to show Donovan everything he's been missing.

For the first time, Donovan doesn't play it safe and allows himself to indulge in things with Beck he knows he can't have. But when their relationship gets serious, he knows he has to choose between the career he loves and the man he loves, because how can he possibly have both?

 
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