| Title | : | The Matchmakers Playbook (Wingmen Inc., #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1503934489 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781503934481 |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 290 |
| Publication | : | First published April 5, 2016 |
After a career-ending accident, former NFL recruit Ian Hunter is back on campus—and he’s ready to get his new game on. As one of the masterminds behind Wingmen, Inc., a successful and secretive word-of-mouth dating service, he’s putting his extensive skills with women to work for the lovelorn. But when Blake Olson requests the services of Wingmen, Inc., Ian may have landed his most hopeless client yet.
From her frumpy athletic gear to her unfortunate choice of footwear, Blake is going to need a miracle if she wants to land her crush. At least with a professional matchmaker by her side she has a fighting chance. Ian knows that his advice and a makeover can turn Blake into another successful match. But as Blake begins the transformation from hot mess to smokin’ hot, Ian realizes he’s in danger of breaking his cardinal rule.…
The Matchmakers Playbook (Wingmen Inc., #1) Reviews
-
re-read 3/19/2018
"Men are suckers for long hair. I think it goes back to the early days when cavemen would grab women by the hair and tug them back to their hay beds and make sweet love to them."
➦Who loves romcoms?
➦So, as you have probably guessed this one really hit the spot. I just loved the non-stop banter in this novel and I guess this is just my type of humor so I was pretty much laughing all the way through the book. But this book also gave me the feels and I lurved it hard.
➦So, pretend boyfriend theme here ladies, or boyfriend for hire. Our hero Ian runs Wingman Inc. with his best friend where they help ladies make other guys jealous. The concept = pretty unlikely irl, right? So let's just get over it and go with the flow because this is fiction, people :)
➦Ian gets a new client - a girl in ugly flip flops who hides her killer athletic body behind baggy clothes. Add to the fact that she's his best friend's roommate and you got quite a situation. So, will Ian break his main rule of never falling for a client?
➦Well, there isn't much I didn't love about this book. I already mentioned the funny banter. But the sexual tension was off the charts too! There's quite a bit of slow burn which I so love in my books and I was itching for them to finally get together.
➦Although this a trope that has been done many times before, I still loved it because it was done so well. I devoured this book in a day and, considering that I have an attention span of a frog when it comes to books, I think this says a lot :D
➦Recommended to anyone who loved romantic comedies, college romances, pretend boyfriend tropes.
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3.5 stars
The Matchmaker’s Playbook is such a cute read! Ian Hunter is the big man on campus and the mastermind behind Wingmen Inc. He uses his skills to help women get the man they’ve got their eyes set on. Then he meets Blake Olson and everything changes. At first Blake seems impossible. Then he gets to know her, and he’s considering breaking his #1 rule.
I’ll be the first to admit, I only picked this book up because I saw the trailer for the Passionflix film and I wanted to watch it. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed the book! I listened to the audio, and it was a lot of fun. I thought the movie was good as well! I’ll definitely be checking out the next book, Gabi and Lex. I love a good enemies to lover story! -
3.5 STARS
"So who better to teach women how not to get played than an actual player?"
[image error] -
DN-fucking-F!!!
I tried to read this. I really did. But, the mainassholecharacter was such a horrible person that he gave a whole new meaning to the words: Douchebag Fuckboy.
Ian, welcome to my list.
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2 SEX IS CHEAP STARS
(I am referencing the first half of this book when I write this part of my review)
Doing a buddy read with some friends on Goodreads and upon the reread I remembered why it took me so long to read this book. The first part of this book is just about Ian being a big horrible whore and for no good reason because he was getting it regularly.
I stopped reading this book twice and both times it was because he goes to have random sex with some girl before he meets the heroine. I know they are not in a relationship but it was just gross to me.
This is not LOVING ALPHA behaviour. I really I did not even want him to end up with Blake during the first part.
I would be able to forget and move on but really I don't recommend this book to the safety girls.
The first part is NOT SAFE for me anymore.
Below review concerns mostly the second half of the book when Ian stops sleeping around.
___________________________Original Review___________________________________
4 PLAYBOOK STARS
This was a pretty funny book about a real playa who founded a whole company based on the idea that getting together with someone is all a matter of following a few simple rules and manipulating the other person.
He had manipulation down to an art here.
It was a series of plays!
Moves and countermoves!
It's all a game, an act, a show, until it becomes too real!
He meets his new client whom he is hoping to help. She wants her crush to fall in love her and enlisted the help of the hero in order to catch her man. The hero, whom has always been able to workout most issues between men and women dispassionately, is now facing a dilemma! He is now conflicted as all of sudden his playa moves are failing him. He is drawn to her also honestly here guys she must be like the ONLY beautiful woman he has NOT sleep with yet.
As he is a complete man slut.
Also, It was his job to help her land her ideal man!
ONLY ONE PROBLEM IS THAT HE WANTED TO BE THAT MAN!
He had never felt anything like this before. And suddenly his job was impossible! How could he do this? How can he get this sweet girl to fall for him when he has always been about "hitting and quitting." No repeats! He needs her more with each passing day.
Would he be willing to let it all out and make an honest play for his ONE?
This was a really Sweet funny love story and I totally enjoyed most of it. However, we did not have any no real conclusion and when you take into account both parts of the story this book was a 3 stars read.
So the man whore behaviour after the heroine and no closure at the end equals 3 stars.
Worth a read but not a reread!
Safety: no cheating technically once they are together, some OM drama as he is trying to "help" her land her man, some OW as he is a complete man slut, and she is a virgin. Condoms. -
Currently on sale!
Amazon US *
Amazon UK
Re-read 3/4/18
Ian Hunter thought he had his whole future mapped out. Get drafted into the NFL, kick ass on the field, get lots of ladies, and become a football legend. His big plan crashed and burned, though, after an accident ended his career and left him lost in life. He decides to go back to college, and as co-founder of Wingmens Inc., he not only gets to learn but also impart a bit of wisdom on some less fortunate ladies.
Ian and his friend/business partner make it their mission to help women who can't get their crush to notice them and turn them into an irresistible match. But when he meets his next client he never expected it to be Blake, his best friends roommate, and possibly incurable tomboy. At first he's not sure he can actually help her, but when his methods prove to be a success, he's not sure if he want's any other guy to have her.
I can't say this story was 100% unique but the premise is definitely not something I've seen a lot. I mean, matchmakers sure, but a male matchmaker? That's definitely a rare thing, and what initially interested me about The Matchmakers Playbook. I enjoyed that the author tried to change up the typical romance story and she succeeded in making something not completely the norm into something great.
The realness of Blake is what drew me to her and I thought it was great that she was so levelheaded, even while trying to attract a man. Her and Ian's relationship was slow building and started out as a friendship first, which I thought was best. There was no rushing into anything, instead we got to live their craziness with them one step at a time.
Overall, this book was a fun read that I really enjoyed. The witty banter between Blake and Ian kept me captivated, and both characters were likable. I recommend this book for anyone that likes an easy NA read full of sexiness, humor, and sweetness. -
Keeping this short
Can always count on a good enjoyable read from RVD =))
I was a bit worried in the beginning with how big of an asshole and full of himself Ian Hunter was but as the story progresses he changes and his priorities take a different path when Blake Olson enters his life. This story was funny, it was sweet, it was innocent, it was believable, and I downright enjoyed it.
Can't wait to get Lex's story next!! -
5 Hook me Up stars
The Matchmaker’s Playbook is a standalone and is part of the Wingmen Inc. series. Each book focuses on the males that run the company. This book is really funny. If you like the way Rachel Van Dyken wrote the Consequence series you will not be disappointed with this one, it has the same feel, but it’s a completely different story.
Ian was going to play in the NFL, until he got into a car accident. No longer a player, he’s in school and is running his own business with his best friend Lex. Ian is a wingman, what’s that? He helps women land the guy of their dreams.
I really loved the concept of this book. First off, I love it when the clueless girl needs help from the player boy on campus. I found Ian charming, witty and funny. He’s addicted to women and he’s anti-relationships even though he’s good at getting women into relationships. What I liked best about Ian is that yes he is selfish and egotistical, but he cares about his clients. He wants these ladies to be in good relationships, not just any relationships in general.
Blake is the tom-boy next door. She wears alethic clothes, no make-up and ADIDAS flip flops. I love that Blake isn’t the girlie girl nor falls head over heels for Ian. She’s sweet, adorable and very likable. She kinds of reminds me of the author (since I see Rachel Van Dyken’s Facebook photos in work-out clothes) < --- random I know. Blake makes being comfortable and working out cool and hip. The out of date clothing references was hilarious and I couldn’t get enough of it.
I liked Blake, I liked that she is innocent, but not a push over. I loved that she needed Ian’s help and I loved their interactions. The banter is very funny and I laughed out loud various times. I couldn’t get enough of the back to back dialogue and that is something the author is very good at. I love dialogue in books.
Blake and Ian meet many times and Ian helps Blake break out of her shell, become more girly and gain more confidence. Ian has certain rules in place to keep himself in check with clients, but he’s slowly realizing the more time he spends with Blake, the more rules he wants to break as he gets to know her.
The book didn’t seem typical, but fresh and easy. I liked the mild tension, but there wasn’t angst. It was the perfect-light hearted read. It will put a smile on your face and maybe give you inspiration to go work-out. It’s a win in my book!
An ARC was provided
AMAZON
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3.5 stars
Ian Hunter is a get-the-guy-you-want specialist. Set in college, he owns his own side business and arranges meetings with the mousy, non confident girls and gives them tips, lessons & practice on how to snare the guys they desperately want. Involves fake dates, practice kissing, making said guy jealous etc etc. He has a no-dating- the- client rule and only trusts his good friends Lex and Gabi. Until Blake comes into the picture. Yes, she's a tomboy..and needs a massive makeover to get the guy she wants. Ian and Blake have the easiest friendship and soon enough, Ian realises he may not want to hand Blake over as planned. Some drama towards the end which i really did not understand... *avoiding spoiler*
I didn't love it but I didn't hate it either. Although it had a VERY predictable plot, the writing was great and i LOVED the conversations between Ian& Lex, Ian & Gabi, Lex& Gabi...i felt like a fly on the wall watching this amazing interaction between close friends. And then, when Blake comes into the picture, it was downright hilarious. Told from Ian's POV- so expect A LOT of male arrogance sort of inner ramblings. I'm never a fan of manwhores and this guy just took it to another level...not sure how Blake accepted that quite easily.
Overall, a light hearted, fun read about finding the right one when you least expect it. -
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
“In our world? Every woman is beautiful. Every woman has a purpose. Every woman has one guy she’s been after, one unobtainable piece of man art. Just think of the two of us as the brokers. You’re welcome, world.”
RACHEL VAN DYKEN!!!!!! OMG...I AM IN LOVE!!!! Can you hear me fangirling over here from San Francisco? Yes, that’s right you wrote the perfect playbook!!! You have masterfully crafted a story that was absolutely fun, sexy, sweet and hilarious!!!! And did I forget to mention, I had a big fat smile on my face the whole time I was reading this book.
The Matchmaker’s Playbook was outrageously fun, witty, and playful. This book is one of those reads that you will be devouring in one sitting. Trust me, you will fall madly in love with Ian and his buddy, Lex as they are your personal matchmakers.
Ian Hunter runs Wingmen Inc, a successful and secretive word-of-mouth dating service. Ian with the help of his wingman, Lex runs a service that helps shy and insecure women win the hearts of their crushes. So if there is a guy that catches your eye and you are vying to get their attention...enter Ian and Lex. With their playbook of rules, they have a great track record of matchmaking. And as added bonus, these two playboys has no problem following their playbook of rules that is until Ian meets Blake Olsen.
“That’s what Wingmen Inc. is about. What if you could study a playbook for dating? We have rules for every type of relationship scenario, and our process works . Basically, we created a dating version of Minority Report.”
Blake is madly in love and infatuated with her childhood friend. She even moved just to attend the same college as her crush but it seems her crush is not taking notice of her so Blake decides to use Wingmen Inc.
When Ian takes on Blake as his client, he never thought he could want this girl for just himself. Blake was different. She was fun, sexy and witty but just need to get pushed in the right direction to build her confidence when talking to her crush. As Ian transform Blake’s style, he begins to see her in a whole new light. He wants her. Will Ian be able to help Blake get her crush when he wants her for himself? Will Ian be striking out or will he find himself making one final play to get the girl?
The Matchmaker’s Playbook was utterly addicting!!!! This book had it all from banter, humor, charm, steam, and romance. I loved that RVD wrote this book in Ian’s POV. It allowed readers to get a fun insight on the inner workings of what he goes through when it comes to his dating services and Blake. So if you are looking for a book where an author wrote a perfect blend of humor, sass, romance, and charm then I urge you to read this book. Maybe some rules are meant to be broken, when it comes to love.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages:
http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
Rachel Van Dyken -
First let me say, I’m 36 and single. So, from the very beginning, I decided I should start taking notes if someone is going to spill the secrets of how to find L.O.V.E! I mean really… Determined not to settle and with no idea what was before me, pen, paper and coffee in hand, I set down the path of learning. Then I spit my coffee all over my Kindle. Well what the HELL, RVD?! If you’re ready to have your abs hurt from laughing so hard, with an element of sweet and saucy love, this is the PERFECT book for you!
The Wingmen are just what every girl needs. Someone who analyzes love and does the math, then determines whether or not the guy you are crushing on is a good fit. Who are the Wingmen? They are a super-secret group until you meet them. Ian Hunter is perfect. He loves women of all shapes and sizes and he wants them to fall in love—they just have to get out of their own way to do it. With the Wingmen’s help they are sure to do it, IF they follow the program. Then enters Blake Olson, who may be his most challenging client to date.
Let me say, I fell in love with Ian from the first moment. He loves women. Women of all shapes and sizes. This made him so perfect to me. He empowers women to have faith in their skills to talk to the person they are attracted to. This made him even more lovable. A man who wants what is best for a women, even if she isn’t his, is pretty amazing. As the story unfolds my love for Ian just became more and more. He’s fun and flirty, empowering and funny. My abs hurt from laughing so freaking hard. I mean, HARD. Laugh out loud, so people stare at you funny! This is the kind of book that brings your faith in humanity back. The kind of story that reminds you that there is so much more to dating and love than just numbers.
The Matchmaker’s Playbook was a perfect blend of love, sweet, saucy and laugh out loud funny! Don’t miss out on the Wingmen and the bright spot they will bring to your life!! ~ Heather, 5 Player stars
~~~
Ian and his friend, Lex are the two behind Wingmen, Inc. They help their clients get their crush. When Ian takes on Blake as a client, he thinks she is going to be a lot of work. As time goes on, Ian isn’t so sure he wants to help her get her crush anymore—he’s thinking he might want to keep her to himself.
Ian was a player and knew all the moves, but he definitely met his match in this book. Even though he was a player, once he met Blake and they became close, he didn’t want any other girl.
Blake was hopelessly in love with her best friend who she grew up with. But the thing is, he doesn’t notice her as more than a friend. Once she enlists Ian’s help, her crush starts to notice her, but Ian has made her rethink her feelings.
I loved this book. Ian and Blake started off with a matchmaker/client relationship that quickly turned to friends, then way more than friends. They got to know a lot about each other while they were denying their feelings, and while Ian was helping her get another guy. Their road to their happily ever after had quite a few bumps and people in the way, but in the end they were able to get where they needed to be. I really enjoyed seeing them work through their feelings and both their transformations into their best selves.
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. Gabi and Lex have quite the hate relationship and I’m interested to see how their relationship will play out in their book. ~ Leah, 5 stars -
From a NFL Player to Love Guru, Ian Hunter is one of the co-founders of Wingmen Inc. where he helps women build confidence and give advices to them so they'll get the man of their dreams through fake dating. It was a clever secret dating service and most of their clients are through referrals. Ian obeyed their company's rules by not having a relationship with his clients. How long will he followed the rules when Gabi's roommate, Blake Olson, the volleybelle from Idaho, signs up on their dating service? Her clothing style leans toward the comfortable, easy-going and sporty. For Ian, it wasn't enough to catch her crush's attention. It was more challenging for him since she's inexperienced with relationships.
Beneath the atrocious style, she's more than meets the eye. Ian is attracted to her beauty and personality. They may not get along first but there's a spark. As days went by, it seems he brings out Blake's best potential. It seems the matchmaker meets his match.
The Matchmaker's Playbook is a fun and quirky book. The shenanigans and banters made me laugh. I dig the humor despite it's quite corny. Ian has a great sense of humor and his crudeness makes him lovable. Blake is a lovely heroine and it's wonderful to see her transition as she breaks out of her shell. I enjoyed the book but I wish it wasn't prolonged. I have to push myself finishing the last 10% of the book. I almost lose my interest but glad I held on to it. By the way, I'm excited to read Lex's story. I'm betting he and Gabi will be a couple. -
3.5 Wingman Stars!
This was my first Rachel Van Dyken book and a perfect one to be introduced to her work. This was a quick, fun read and RVD has a new fan now. I enjoyed that it was told from the male POV.
Ian and Lex are friends and co-workers so to speak. They run Wingmen Inc., which is a private business where they help other quirky, shy college girls get the attention and possibly win the heart of the man of their dreams. There are many rules that the clients have to follow, but their number one rule (for Ian and Lex) is that they don't sleep with or fall for the client.
"That’s what Wingmen Inc. is about. What if you could study a playbook for dating? We have rules for every type of relationship scenario, and our process works. Basically, we created a dating version of Minority Report."
Ian was a NFL draft during his sophomore year of college, but an injury took that career away from him. Now, he's back in college finishing his degree. He still works out to keep his athletic body and a lot of ladies appreciate that. But when he's hired to help one of his friend's roommates, Blake, he never thought he'd be on the opposite side of things.
Blake plays on the volleyball team. She's from a small Idaho town. She actually followed a guy to college, the guy she's had a crush on her entire life. When she gets fed up with him not noticing her, she decides to hire Wingmen Inc. She's very tomboyish in every way. She's also a virgin whose never been kissed, so Ian has got his work cut out for him.
"It wasn't that it had been too long without a girl.
It was that it'd been a lifetime without the right one."
Blake is special. The more time that Ian spends with her, the more he begins to develop feelings for her. There's just something about her that Ian is drawn to and he wants her to notice him too. Even though this arrangement started out with him trying to help her catch the eye of someone else, it evolves into more, into a chance of true love for him this time.
"I desperately want you. Need you. Crave you."
I truly enjoyed this book. It was done in "Kindle in Motion" which is something I've never seen before. It had several pictures and videos that added to the fun of this story. I wish more books did this. I can't wait to read Lex and Gabi's story next. They hate one another right now, so I can only imagine how much fun it will be. Is this the beginning of the fall of Wingmen Inc? -
4.5 'hilarious NA romcom' stars
This is one of those rare book that I started on it, put it off, return to it and end up loving it. Ian Hunter is really testing my patience when I met him in the first chapter. Not only is he a certified whore, he even labelled those mindless girls he banged as 'the stupid ones'. Yeah, never 'the sad ones', he had morals after all. I find that highly offensive and his juvenile crude jokes make me want kick his nuts.
So how the hell I move fromhatingdisliking him tolovingadoring him in a span of 290 pages? Is so hard to sum up my feelings, but his character and unique personality really grew on me... like fungus or mold. And underneath all the asshole-ish behavior, he is a good guy at heart.
First of all, the book cover doesn't seem fitting. Although I'm glad that they branch out from just showing abs and tatted up naked men, it still doesn't fit the overall tone of the book. The cover actually reminds me of the old school romantic suspense and of this particular movie --->
Anyway, back to the story itself. The entirety of this romcom is centered around Ian Hunter, an ex-NFL player who owned Wingmen Inc. with his best buddy Lex. Is suppose to be a big secret, like Fight Club, only they help miserable female students to win the guy of their dream. Imagine them being the love coach.
Blake is a female athlete in school. Yes, she is a girl, not a dude. Although the name seems fitting since she is basically a tomboy. She had quite an awkward introduction to Ian when she found out he is her new housemate's bestie and she hired him to win her childhood sweetheart.
"You saw me naked."
"I wasn't impressed."
"You're a shit liar. Then again, that may have been your first time seeing a naked man, and therefore, you're waiting to compare me to the sad, unfortunate soul-sucking individual you're going to end up with."
What follows then might sounds totally cliche and something I have read before, the supposed love coach falling for his client. But the author manage to put a nice twist into it, especially during the second half part and coupled with the tummy-ache inducing humor, it was an entertaining reading experience.
"You can barely crawl. Those type of moves are for sprinters."
"I can sprint."
"No, you can't."
"Yes, I can!"
"You do realize I'm talking about the Kama Sutra, right?"
Apart from the humor that I love, albeit juvenile, which is fitting for their age, I love the fact that I can see the insecure side of the cocky Ian Hunter, the guy who used to think he can get any girl he wants. Blake prove to be an anomaly and for once he is second guessing himself. Does she love him? Is he good enough? The most entertaining part is to see him growing a vagina, drowning in a pile of pizza takeout and it was hilarious to boot. I'm torn between wanting to sympathize with his predicament and doing an evil laugh. Is payback time!
"How's it feel?"
"Um, getting my heart broken? Gee, I don't know, Lex. It kinda tickles, like a feather getting stuck up my ass. What the hell, man, are you serious right now?"
As this is told entirely from the hero's POV, we didn't really know what going on inside Blake's head. But she is quite a likable character, and I'm glad some of her action was explained well towards the end. I don't have anything to complaint about her.
Lastly, we can't forget Batman's sidekick, Robin, which in this case is Lex. I love their bromance. Seriously, if this book don't have any actual romance, I will still wanna read it for all of Ian and Lex's craziness and shenanigans. They are like Bonnie and Clyde, the partners in crime. For all their jabbering and bickering, we can truly see their deep friendship and affection for each other.
"Pretend I'm a chick."
"I'd rather not. Since I hate all women right now, I'm bound to do something stupid, like kiss you in hormonal confusion, then try to slam this bottle over your head in rage."
I also didn't like Lex in the beginning because he seems to be an even bigger whore compare to Ian. But then, I started enjoyed reading him and his nemesis, Gabi. I wonder is there all hate or maybe a combo of lust/hate. Honestly, I wish at this point, they only hate each other, because I can't stand the idea of him blatantly screwing everyone, while there are some underlying feelings somewhere. That just plain awful.
All in all, this is a fabulous read for me. Recommended if you are interested in reform rake, high dose of not-so-grown-up jokes and complete with a great cast of supporting characters that I'm dying to read about them next.
"Now, shake that ass toward the door. I have some ideas that involve rope and zip ties."
"Ian!"
"What? I was talking about home improvement, you dirty, dirty girl. Now, let's get out of here before I maul you in the closest bathroom. Gotta keep things classy where you're concerned." -
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
*****4.5 STARS*****
For the first time in my life, I wanted a girl that wasn’t mine to have. And it sucked.
This was like a modern day twist of the story, Pygmalion. Ian Hunter along with his best bud, Lex, run a secret business called Wingmen, Inc. They provide a sort of dating service to coeds on campus who need extra help in landing the men of their dreams. Their clients are usually shy and socially awkward. They teach the girls how to be more confident and how to gain the interest of the object of their affection. There is also a software program they use to make sure their clients are compatible with the men they’ve been crushing on. The guys have rules and a contract that each client must sign and follow. The women are sworn to secrecy and must vow to never give away their identities. One of the cardinal rules, which is also listed on the contract, is that neither Ian nor Lex are allowed to hook up with their clients. Ian’s world is about to be turned upside down by the new roommate of his friend, Gabi. The roommate who is about to become the newest client of Wingmen, Inc.
Blake comes from a small town in Idaho. She’s on the University’s Volleyball team and she has no fashion sense whatsoever. Blake likes to wear oversized sweatshirts, basketball shorts, and Adidas flip flops. She has hopes of winning the affections of her childhood friend, David. Not only is she a virgin, but she also has never been kissed.
Right from the start you can sense there is a strong attraction between Ian and Blake. The once NFL top draft pick and designated ladies’ man, for the first time in his life, finds himself smitten with a woman and he has no clue that maybe he’s stumbled upon the once in a lifetime chance at true love and happiness.
I couldn’t get enough of this one. The slow build to the love connection between Ian and Blake held my interest throughout and it was nearly impossible to put this book down once I got into the story.
Will Ian realize in time that he’s the right guy for Blake, or will he let doubt and a stupid software program destroy their chances at an HEA? You’ll have to pick this one up to find out. Looking forward to the next book, which I assume will be Lex’s story.
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Ok, first of all I just gotta say how cool it was to find that this book was a kindle in motion. My only complaint is the actor playing Ian. I wish they had gotten an actor that was actually built like a football player since that was what Ian was.
Now for the actual story, I give it two thumbs up! The banter in this book made it fun and I was completely charmed by Ian despite him being a huge womanizer. The book is in Ian's pov and while I was charmed by him, a lot of his thoughts did make me cringe. There are just some things woman shouldn't know what men think. Despite that, I truly did enjoy this story and had a lot of laugh out loud moments.
Ian and Blake do not get together immediately and Ian does have relations before he does get with Blake. I was ok with it because Blake was trying to get the attention of another man, so I really can't hold that against Ian. This is a friends to lovers type story and it was done very well. -
If you’re looking for a refreshing and unique romantic comedy that will have your sides hurting from laughter, and male characters that leave your heart pounding with anticipation, look no further than The Matchmaker’s Playbook by Rachel Van Dyken.
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ETA: Just finished reading this for the 2nd time and enjoyed it even more so since I saw the movie. There were so many other cute moments from the book that didn't make it into the movie and I really think they should've. Especially the ending where Ian basically pushes Blake away and towards David. Not so much because she kissed him but because he thought he wasn't worthy of her and David was.
Still a fun book and a cute story. If you don't have Passionflix, you should think about getting it. These movies are cheesy but so fun to watch! You can rent them on Amazon too but they're a bit pricey.
*Prior to second read of the book*
I've read other Rachel Van Dyken books before and enjoyed them but not loved them. Her writing was unusual for me. However, this felt like a completely different author! I loved the humor in this story and the way the story flowed. It was a light-hearted romance and that is what I needed.
I decided to read this since they are currently filming it for a Passionflix movie to be released, I hope soon! Can I also hope that they are going to do The Matchmaker's Replacement as a movie as well because I loved that one too!
Ian was definitely not my fave in the beginning. He was quite arrogant and quite the manwhore, however, he improved and then became very devoted to Blake. Of course, there was the ending trust issue and it was quite a perspective for the heroine to be the one in the wrong...sorta but I still enjoyed it.
I'm very much looking forward to the movie!!! The actor playing Ian is HOT.
This is actually him! LOL:
Gimmie!!! -
3.5/5 stars!
This was a cute, fun, fluffy read filled with lots of laugh out loud moments. Im a HUGE fan of RVD and her books NEVER disappoint me! I have to say, that although this is Ian's and Blake's story, Lex and Gabby stole the show for me. I cant wait to dive into their story. I can guarantee it will be my fave out of these two books. Now im ready for the movie! Bring on Nick Bateman 😍😍 -
2.5 stars
Damn the mixed feelings I'm having about this one.
Let's start with the narration. I'm not so sure I liked it. The book is narrated from a male POV and it was VERY clear that a female author had written it. It was just so....cheery, all the time. I'm pretty sure if this were a movie it would be directed like the kissing booth or maybe the DUFF. With some ridiculous sound effects added everytime a character made a joke, just so we don't forget to laugh.
edit: god knows how many years later and I found out there is a movie after all💀. Don't watch it.
Then Ian, our protagonist is about the most confusing male I've ever read. In the first few chapters he acts like a dimwitted little bitch..."Serena giggled at something Lex said. Hell, she’d probably giggle if he spelled “astronaut” correctly.
I fought the urge to roll my eyes. Don’t get me wrong, I did girls like that on a biweekly basis to blow off steam, but that’s all they were good for; the one contribution they had to society was that they didn’t care about anything beyond the fact that guys like Lex and me had six-packs and we let them touch each muscle while giggling."
Okaaaaay, captain narcissist.
But then he will also go on and say shit like this..."I made sure to give her pointers on what to wear, but I always—and I do mean always—told the girls one thing: A girl should never change herself for a guy. Ever. And if she did? Then they weren’t meant to be. We helped improve what they already had, but we never changed them."
Make up your damn mind bro. First we're all put on this planet to please you, then we shouldn't change ourselves for a man. I swear this guy was giving me a whiplash. One second he says something logical and perfectly respectful only to ruin the moment by proving to be a huge dickhead.
But despite the fact that this book was kind not good, it was also kind of fun. I found myself somehow enjoying it. -
Freaking awesome!! LOVED it
Review to come... -
4.5 stars
Actually I've come to read The Matchmaker's Playbook because its movie is going to be released on passionflix soon. I guess otherwise I might have missed out on this funny and light read.
The Matchmaker's Playbook is an easy read that keeps your eyes glued to the pages until the very end. It reminds me a little of the movie "She's All That" but with its very own twist and turns. Between all the heavy romance I've read lately it was refreshing reading something lighthearted.
The connection between Ian and Blake builds slowly and it's pretty obvious that there is no way around that they fall for each other. Once into the story, I couldn't put down this book. I've read it in one sitting.
Can't wait to watch the movie with Nick Bateman as Ian <3 -
I had to read this before watching the Passionflix movie next week. ☺
And it was cute. Nothing new or mega exciting. Sweet and funny and adorable. It could've been a bit sexier and a bit ... deeper. BUT, I enjoyed reading it. A quick, fun RomCom thingy.
I'm glad I read it before I saw the movie - I so do not see Nick B as Ian. ☺
I really liked Ian and Lex - and I really want to see what Lex and Gabi will be up to in the next book. If I ever find the time!
There was one thing I hated. A hard-limit I have with my books. Which makes me almost not want to read any other Rachel McWhatever books - BUT, I also want to read Lex's story...grrr☺
Dear authors. If you want to thank god in your books, please write christian fiction, so that I will never stumble upon one of your books.
I just hate that. It doesn't belong in a romance book! This time it was in the back. Sometimes authors put the acknowledgements in the front, and they thank god, who always comes first in their life (poor kids and husband!) - and I just want to throw my kindle out the window. No. Just no. That's something you need to do in private. Not in a book you're selling in a non-christian-genre! No offense. But .. don't care if you're offended either. End of rant.
Cute book - read it!
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Van D Can Write
Yeah, yeah... I say it every time, but seriously, I have loved Rachel Van Dyken's writing style since I opened the first page of "The Consequences of Loving Colton" & pissed my pants in laughter.
She has this amazing talent for making her stories largely about showing you the whole scene vs telling you what it looks like, and then making the 'telling' parts seem as if the character is talking to you, not at you. I call it interactive writing.
She never fails to deliver the witty, snarky, funny, & clever in spades.
And this is why, "The Consequences of Loving Colton" remains my most recommended book.
Like Tahereh Mafi, Lucy Edwards, and Willow Madison, I would read this woman's grocery list if published.
So WTF the three stars?
"The Matchmaker's Playbook" delivered RVD brand of funny and witty dialogue and scenes, but otherwise fell flat and short for me.
Set Up
MMC, Ian, is a injury-retired jock. He returns to college and he and his BFF put their playa' skills to work helping pinning women snag their dreamboats. First rule of'Fight Club'Wingmen Inc...
Imagine the Will Smith movie...
... but, it being the cure for the common woman.
Ian is the epitome of a charming manwhore. Outside of playing matchmaker for others, he's only interested in one thing from women, and it ain't cookies, long walks on the beach, and snuggles.
Enter the FMC, . Tomboy athlete stuck in the 90s and hidden behind boy clothes. His female BFF's new roommate. His new client who wants to be seen as a woman by her childhood friend.
Disaster waiting to happen? Ah, yeah, duh.
So what happens when the playa' has to turn all his relationship analysis toward a mirror and figure out how to apply the lipstick ? What happens when the playa' falls victim to his own game?
Characters
Ian is a witty, charming, and funny guy. His antics, voice, and eccentric personality are great.
The problem was that I felt he was more of an animated "Family Guy" or "The Simpsons" kind of character in that he was always 'in show mode' vs feeling like a real life character. I needed a little more serious background and more real character traits to ground and humanize him vs him always feeling like an animated personality about to spring out of a cake in his birthday suit.
The FMC, Blake, is more like a huge question mark. I don't feel like I know her past a very superficial layer of 1) awkward at being a girl 2) horrible fashion sense 3) the body and mentality of an athlete. I don't have any idea who she is as a person, what makes her tick, or what she feels as she goes through the scenes.
Combine the two, and I ended up appreciating the humor & wit in what they were saying or doing... but, failing to get why or care about what they were saying and doing -AND- failing to see the romantic, lusty' chemistry between the two.
^^ If you're looking for more laughs and entertainment than character and plot development and sweeping romance, then you won't have an issue here.
I, personally, just wanted them to ease up their 120 mph acceleration in the bling-bling neon green Jetta to show me a little of the landscape.
OW/OM
While it stays true to Ian's manwhore character, safety gang folks should know that Ian does have sex with another woman after he meets the FMC. The FMC & he aren't together or even friendly yet & it's not a graphic or highly detailed scene. After that, there are no OW scenes. He does continue to lightheartedly flaunt his sexual expertise in dialogue, including with the FMC. It doesn't appear to bother her, and she even refers to his OW herself occasionally in a lighthearted voice. None of this particularly bothered me.
But, boy did the OM piss me off...
Spoiler ahead ......
Clearly there is another man since that's why Blake enlisted Ian's services. That didn't bother me at all.
It did, however, really piss me off that she kissed the OM after becoming Ian's girlfriend. She cheated - plain and simple. She explains it as she needed to know if what she felt for Ian was real since Ian was her first kiss and lover. Ian accepts this EXCUSE ( not apology, mind you; excuse!! ) and they just sweep it away like it never happened.
Yes, this is a comedy-first book, but it's also trying to sell me a romance between the MCs, and I find nothing remotely funny or endearing about whitewashed cheating that's brushed off as no biggie.
Standalone Within a Series
This can be read as a standalone. It ends at a HFN place and with a tease scene for the secondary characters.
Bottom Line
3 Style and Humor Stars
I laughed. I was entertained. I appreciate the writing style. But, I didn't get a deep and meaningful connection with the plot nor characters. I didn't buy the romantic connection. And, I lost all respect for the characters after how the OM kiss scene played out. -
Loved this book!!
I going to hide in a corner when I say this. But this is the first book that I have read from this author. I 've been meaning to read her for ages and I gutted I havent. This book was so good. I enjoyed it so much. The story was so good. I luvd that it was told from Ian's pov. I really liked him. Ian Hunter is a very sexy and confident guy. Life has been easy for him but he has made the best of his life. He has women throwing themselves at him. Being a ex NFL player it just comes with the job. Even though his career was cut so short. He has come to terms with it and like I said he is making the most of it. He doesn't do relationships he help woman with them. He just wasn't prepared for Blake.
Blake isn't a super confident girl. But she can stand up for herself if people start to annoy her. Especially Ian Hunter he was a handful since the day she set eyes on him. Just to make life even harder Ian ends up being the guy to help her get the guy she has been interested in. There relationship doesn't start great they are at each other throat all the time until they have to work together.
I really enjoyed this book. I really can't wait to read the next book in this series Gabi and Lex are just goin to be so funny. Even throw this book they couldn't stand each other. So really looking forward to see how it's going to work. I loved Ian and Blake's characters in this book they were so cute and sexy together. I would highly recommend this book. I m so happy I finally got around to start author dying to read more of her work.
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I liked the banter between the two main characters otherwise nothing new but a good read for in between.
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** ARC PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
** Reviewed Previously for Books n Boys Book Blog **
5 Wingtastic Stars!
I am not kidding this baby is a fantastic read. All the feel good with the laughter you’re used to from Rachel’s books.
This girl can write the heck out of a book and in the males prospective as well. I love it and that’s almost too mild of a term each time I had to put the book down I was sad each time I picked it up I felt like I was reading about friends.
So we meet Ian Hunter, part of the Wingman Inc. Former NFL recruit all round smexy fun loving ladies’ man. He has some bestie, Lex his other half of Wingman Inc. and Gabby is girl bestie.
I freaking loved the dynamic between these three, Gabby and Ian remind me of a brother, sister team where you’re afraid to sleep with your eyes close because said sister will pop your eyes out lmao. I am telling you the comic relief in this book is off the charts. Gabby and Lex omg these two I swear they are going to tare each other limb from limb or end up in bed together. Ha ha.
“You disgust me.” – Gabby
“You love me, little sis.” – Ian
“Sometimes I wonder why.” – Gabby
“I bring up the group average by at least two points, admit it.” – Ian
“Only because you have nice hair,” – Gabby
“That’s my girl.” – Ian
This is just a snip it of what’s to come in this book. We then meet Blake, Gabby’s newest roommate.
Blake is a shy but strong character and I loved watching her become herself. For me I thought she was hiding behind grief, and maybe a little self-esteem issues from the past. But she is ready to shed the old for the new (for the most part, those flip flops! Ha) and she ends up hiring Wingman Inc. to help her get long time crush David to notice her. Blake is no strange to hanging out with the guys her issue is being more girly and getting David to see her as a woman.
Ian gets assigned the task to whip her in to shape. There crazy wit together cracked me up so often I laughed or had a smile on my face whenever these two where on the same page.
Only with this amazing chemistry comes a complication Ian doesn’t see her as just a client any more but possible something more and he keeps repeating to himself. A client, A client, A client. Wingman Inc. has rules after all.
Sometimes rules are meant to be broken and you have to go with the flow.
So when they stop fighting the pull that’s when it becomes amazing, scary, frustration, funny and sweet. Never had I enjoyed a book more….. Well maybe The Bet also by Rachel that was just and fun to read.
Here are a few snips to get you wanted to pick this baby up.
Ian – holding a pillow to Gabby…
“She can’t breathe.” – Blake
“She breaths through her hair.” “She’s find.” -Ian
Ian to Lex
“I’m going to bed to sleep it off and hopeful not die. If I wake up a zombie, take at least a few cool pictures before you decapitate me. Cool?” lmao who says this!
Ian to Lex
“I think we need more alcohol if you’re going to use words like ‘panty-melting’ Lex.”
And this is my favorite of Ian’s head talking.
“In our world? Every woman is beautiful. Every woman has a purpose. Every woman has one guy she’s been after, one unobtainable piece of man art.”
I loved this so hard!
I can’t wait for the next installment in this series!! -
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cocky Ian stars!
You like her,” he said. “I also like yogurt. You expect me to stick my penis in that too?”
This book has been sitting on my tbr shelf since forever then I came across
Michelle's review and decided to give it a try.
The Matchmaker's Playboy didn't disappoint. It was funny, heartwarming, hot as hell with the amount of cockiness and sass to sweep you out of your feet.
I loved Ian and Blake and I can't wait to see both Ian/Blake and Lex/Gabs movies. -
Wow. I absolutely loved that and pretty much read it in one sitting. I thought I hated romcom, but it turns out, when PassionFlix makes a movie of a book and casts Nick Bateman in the lead, all bets are off. Refreshing, addictive, and full of angst.
#SWOON 😍😍😍
“It sucks. I want to kill David. I want her to hurt just as bad as I hurt. I want the pain in the middle of my chest to alleviate enough so I can freaking breathe. I want to slam the door in her face, then apologize and pull her into my arms and beg her to choose me.” -
Wow I didn't expect to love this one as much as I did. I picked it up on a whim and it just completely captured me right from the start. I loved Ian and Blake, and I'm super excited to read about the supporting characters Gabi and Lex! Really think this is going to be a new favourite series for me.
