Playing it Tough

I’ll admit, I rolled my eyes at the ‘reform-the-bad-boy’ premise—until *Playing It Tough* flipped the script. Orla isn’t here to fix anyone; she’s too busy trying (and failing) to outrun her own past. The rugby player trope could’ve veered into cliché, but Andrews gives him depth: a guy who’s used to being the team’s enforcer but is utterly outmatched by a woman who refuses to play by his rules. Their dynamic is electric, but what sold me was the emotional undercurrent. Orla’s journey from self-imposed rigidity to vulnerability feels earned, not rushed, and the secondary cast (especially her no-nonsense best friend) adds layers without stealing the spotlight. Brie Jackman’s performance is a masterclass in tonal balance. She voices Orla’s sarcasm with a razor’s edge, but when the character’s walls crumble, Jackman’s delivery softens just enough to make it ache. My only critique? The rugby scenes, while atmospheric, occasionally slow the momentum—though purists might appreciate the authenticity. And while the conflict resolution leans slightly neat, the banter is so sharp you’ll forgive it. This audiobook is perfect for listeners who want their romance with bite: equal parts laugh-out-loud funny and gut-punch tender. Just don’t blame me if you start binge-listening to rugby podcasts afterward.