Books & Spoons Review: Out Of The Game by Kate Willoughby

Alex Sullivan may be the San Diego Barracudas' resident playboy, but he hasn't been able to forget the woman who kissed him like her life depended on it ten months ago. When he sees her again at a teammate's wedding, he can't think of anything but spending more time with her. Preferably naked.

Claire Marzano lost years catering to an overbearing husband, and she's not going to answer to anyone ever again. A hot fling is just what she needs to get back in the game, and that's exactly what sexy Alex offers—one wild long weekend away, with no promises or obligations.

But that one weekend changes everything. Despite knowing full well Alex isn't the kind to ever commit, Claire is falling for him. And Alex secretly imagines a future with his strong, smart "accidental girlfriend." Until a surprise announcement and an on-ice accident threaten to derail everything…or cause Alex to finally ditch his old ways and become the man Claire needs him to be.

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When fun and games turns into something serious, and life as they know it takes a tragic turn.
At the beginning of the story Alex is a potty mouth, fun loving, hockey playing, sex driven, player. He has the enthusiasm of a child towards life, the sex drive of a teenager, and appetite for life and fun like no one else.
Claire is careful with her heart, feelings, and life. The divorce has made her careful on many levels, and her self esteem has suffered from her ex-husband's treatment of her.
The spontaneous way Alex introduces his lifestyle to Claire is fun and entertaining. His energy is never ending, his joie de vivre is admirable, he is charming, humorous, and engaging.
As the time goes, and they get to know more of each other, and their relationship continues, to everyone's amazement, deeper feelings come into the play. Life happens, plans change, and future shifts, as unexpected events change everything.
What started as a fun fling, changes everything in Alex and Claire's life.
The development of the characters is shown so well in this story, at the first half of the book, Claire takes the walls down from around her, and surrenders herself into the fun and lively way of living Alex has to offer. When the time comes for Alex to 'grow up', it is not an easy process, there's past pain, future in peril, and new feelings to be dealt with. The story takes a more serious tone, and brings so much more into the plate. The conclusion of the story is pleasant, satisfying, and rather sweet, making this a very enjoyable read, and fascinating series to be followed
~ Four Spoons