Anti Player

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Anti Player by R.C. Stephens is one of those romance stories that will give you the feels. This is the 4th book in the Player series, and it can be read as a stand-alone. In this instalment, the author takes readers on a journey which delves into the complexities of relationships. Whether it's a relationship involving parents and children, siblings, friends, or a romantic one.The story which unfolds in Anti Player introduces Kaleb, a professional hockey player and a twenty - seven-year-old virgin. Kaleb had a crappy childhood with a father who  saw him as defective because he had a stutter. Whilst, his mother valued her relationship with men over her kids. The only true family he knew were the Nobles, as a result of his friendship with the youngest son. A friendship which extended to the other siblings, which ultimately led to him crushing on Maddie is best friend's sister.Maddie's childhood whilst a bit more stable than Kaleb's had its share of issues. As a result, she always chooses the wrong men. One such choice led to her being a single mom. Her latest choice in men led to her moving in  with her brother. It so happens Kaleb lives in the same apartment complex as her brother.Now, while Maddie as sworn off love and relationships, Kaleb sees her as the best person to take is V- Card. He convinces her it would be a short term friends with benefits arrangement and her brothers could not know. How can she refuse to help out a friend and besides her heart would not be involved. But you know what they say about good intentions.This was such an adorable read. It was interesting watching Maddie trying to protect her heart. An impossible task, especially knowing the crush she had on him as a teenager was very much alive. Once they both got a taste of the forbidden fruit, there was no turning back. However, fears, traumatic childhood issues, an overprotective big brother and the failure to communicate their feelings served as roadblocks to their relationship.Despite the issues preventing them from acknowledging their feelings, I thought they made a wonderful couple. I kept hoping they would both come to their senses and cease fighting what was obvious to everyone, their love for each other. Her relationship with Kaleb was nothing like she experienced before. The way he treated her was an added bonus. I loved Kaleb's relationship with Maddie's son, Asher. Their interactions with each other will warm your heart. Asher was an adorable child.Anti Player delivered a story that was not only fun and entertaining but one that also tugs on the heart. Fans of single mom, friends to lovers and brother's best friend trope  will love this latest offering from Stephens. This was my first experience with her work, and I look forward to seeing what else she has to offer.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading