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Gamer Boy #3
Game All Night
A game between friends....
RUBY
Just friends.
That's all we are,
All we ever were.
But when I finally let myself go,
Let myself really feel,
The only thing I want is him.
Despite how opinionated, frustrating, and charming he is,
We're only friends.
He's my player number two.
But lately, we're powering up,
Trying for more,
And playing this game just might destroy us for good.
LINK
She deserves better,
Better than the game-less douche who gets to have her.
She's strong, feisty, and so damn smart.
Too smart--if you ask me.
And now, I'm amped up for more,
Ready to play this game,
With no "game over" in sight.
** This book can be read and understood as a standalone but does contain minor spoilers for the first two books in the series. **
RUBY
Just friends.
That's all we are,
All we ever were.
But when I finally let myself go,
Let myself really feel,
The only thing I want is him.
Despite how opinionated, frustrating, and charming he is,
We're only friends.
He's my player number two.
But lately, we're powering up,
Trying for more,
And playing this game just might destroy us for good.
LINK
She deserves better,
Better than the game-less douche who gets to have her.
She's strong, feisty, and so damn smart.
Too smart--if you ask me.
And now, I'm amped up for more,
Ready to play this game,
With no "game over" in sight.
** This book can be read and understood as a standalone but does contain minor spoilers for the first two books in the series. **
- GenresRomanceContemporary
ebook
Published November 26, 2018
About the author
Lauren Helms
18 books466 followersLauren Helms is a romance author her nerdy and flirty contemporary words. Lauren has forever been an avid reader from the beginning. After starting a book review website, that catapulted her fully into the book world, she knew that something was missing. While working for a video game strategy guide publisher, she decided to mix what she knew best--video games and romance. She decided to take the plunge and write her first novel, Level Me Up. Several published novels later, Lauren, with her book bestie, also formed PR company, Forever Write PR, to help other authors promote their books.
Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three little kid nerds who will hopefully grow up to share the love of things that united Lauren and her husband on their own happily ever after.
You can connect with Lauren in the following ways:
Read her Books on Amazon!
LIKE on Facebook!
Subscribe to her Newsletter
Follow on Instagram
Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three little kid nerds who will hopefully grow up to share the love of things that united Lauren and her husband on their own happily ever after.
You can connect with Lauren in the following ways:
Read her Books on Amazon!
LIKE on Facebook!
Subscribe to her Newsletter
Follow on Instagram
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 19, 2018
So many more than 5 stars!!!
I love this group of friends so hardcore!!! Everything about this book will stick with me because not only is it fun and carefree at times but they also have heartbreak and disasters.
So many reasons to love this book but I will give you my main reason, Link. He is the ultimate man and even though I wasn’t sure about him in the other books reading him in his element and his caring self I fell hard! Like when I tell you I fell, I fell hard and ache all over because he just wraps you up into his sexy self and makes you believe there are still men out in the world like this! (I married my Link!)
Ruby.... Oh Ruby! I love her sass and her ability to be friends with Link and their ability to just have fun without all the other stuff. I laughed my ass off at some of the banter between these two and even cried when they fought. I NEVER expected for what happened to happen and I left me on the floor wrapped up in myself crying.
This book will bring you up and have you laughing, swooning and so happy you can’t even imagine something bad happening..... or so you think.
Lauren holy shit girl!!!! This is by fair my favorite and I am so grateful to have found you because I am a HUGE fan now and love that you write about gamers!!!! Mine is sitting playing right now!! You are awesome!! Congrats!! 💜
I love this group of friends so hardcore!!! Everything about this book will stick with me because not only is it fun and carefree at times but they also have heartbreak and disasters.
So many reasons to love this book but I will give you my main reason, Link. He is the ultimate man and even though I wasn’t sure about him in the other books reading him in his element and his caring self I fell hard! Like when I tell you I fell, I fell hard and ache all over because he just wraps you up into his sexy self and makes you believe there are still men out in the world like this! (I married my Link!)
Ruby.... Oh Ruby! I love her sass and her ability to be friends with Link and their ability to just have fun without all the other stuff. I laughed my ass off at some of the banter between these two and even cried when they fought. I NEVER expected for what happened to happen and I left me on the floor wrapped up in myself crying.
This book will bring you up and have you laughing, swooning and so happy you can’t even imagine something bad happening..... or so you think.
Lauren holy shit girl!!!! This is by fair my favorite and I am so grateful to have found you because I am a HUGE fan now and love that you write about gamers!!!! Mine is sitting playing right now!! You are awesome!! Congrats!! 💜
November 27, 2018
Game All Night was such a fun read and was so much more than I expected emotionally.
I knew I would love Link and Ruby's story, but what Lauren delivered was riveting, cute and heartbreaking. I actually felt volatile towards Ruby and Link's significant others that they were with when we first start Game All Night The names I called them in my head aren't quite appropriate for reviews. I was chanting BREAK UP WITH THEM! Oh was so frustrated and just couldn't deal with them.
Once Link and Ruby realized what everyone else has known from the beginning it was a sight to behold. I loved everything about Link, he was a stand up guy even if you don't realize it by looking at him initially.
I love how when then unexpected popped up he put on his big pants and did everything he could to help Ruby. He fought for her when all she did was push him away. I adored watching him never give up on her and doing everything in how power for her.
Game All Night is a fast paced and emotional friends to lovers romance where the comic book loving girl and the YouTube gaming star over all the obstacles with love for each other.
I knew I would love Link and Ruby's story, but what Lauren delivered was riveting, cute and heartbreaking. I actually felt volatile towards Ruby and Link's significant others that they were with when we first start Game All Night The names I called them in my head aren't quite appropriate for reviews. I was chanting BREAK UP WITH THEM! Oh was so frustrated and just couldn't deal with them.
Once Link and Ruby realized what everyone else has known from the beginning it was a sight to behold. I loved everything about Link, he was a stand up guy even if you don't realize it by looking at him initially.
I love how when then unexpected popped up he put on his big pants and did everything he could to help Ruby. He fought for her when all she did was push him away. I adored watching him never give up on her and doing everything in how power for her.
Game All Night is a fast paced and emotional friends to lovers romance where the comic book loving girl and the YouTube gaming star over all the obstacles with love for each other.
November 26, 2018
*** if you haven’t read this series I suggest you do it from book 1 which is amazing***
Tears and MORE TEARS! Omg! I didn’t expect the roller coaster of emotions but I really appreciated all the feelings. You KILLED IT BEYOND WORDS. I don’t know how else to say it. This series is everything I needed and more.
The part I love about this series is that it’s never boring you keep me wanting more. These kind of books are not easy to find. Lauren keep doing what you are doing.
Tears and MORE TEARS! Omg! I didn’t expect the roller coaster of emotions but I really appreciated all the feelings. You KILLED IT BEYOND WORDS. I don’t know how else to say it. This series is everything I needed and more.
The part I love about this series is that it’s never boring you keep me wanting more. These kind of books are not easy to find. Lauren keep doing what you are doing.
November 16, 2018
The last book in the Gamer Boy series is just as swoony as the rest! Love Link and Ruby sooooooo much!
November 29, 2018
Rating: 3.5 stars
Link and Ruby finally have their story. All that bickering is coming to fruition. Hallelujah.
Do you know when you can see a car wreck coming, and time slows down? You can’t look away? That’s what reading this book was like. In a good way of course. But also a sort of terrible, angsty way. You see, both Link and Ruby are dating other people at the start of this book, and both of those relationships are not ideal.
Link, on the one hand, is with someone only superficially interested in him. That’s easy enough to understand, right? He wants Amber because he doesn’t want anything serious. (Also, he totally wants Ruby from the beginning, let’s not kid ourselves.) And she wants Link (or should I say, “Lincoln”) because he’s rich and famous. Whatever. I get it. I won’t judge.
What’s harder for me not to judge, but what I actually 100% understand, is Ruby’s relationship with Mason. I get it. I do. And that makes me hate it so much more. Because Ruby was like I was, thinking that I had to settle down at some point, watching her friends do the same. She felt the pressure, and she wasn’t even 25 at the start of the book. That pressure made her not trust her gut all the times it was screaming that Mason wasn’t right for her.
Just a reminder that you do not have to settle to settle down. If you do want to get married and have kids, fine, but don’t impose a stupid deadline on it that only makes you panic and convince yourself to stick with someone who is unsupportive, uncaring, and inattentive. You can and deserve to hold out for the right person, someone who won’t belittle your interests and insult your friends. Don’t date a Mason. (Sorry to any guys named Mason who are not tosspots.) Instead, find yourself someone who will be there for you when you’re in trouble, even when they’re busy.
So while the two of them had this crazy chemistry that shone through more and more throughout the story, I had to slog through all my rage and resentment at Mason first. What a fopdoodle. And it was an incredible moment when the two finally stopped fighting what they had. I almost cheered out loud. I bet the rest of the gang wanted to cheer in the book.
BUT THEN IT GOT WORSE. And when I say worse, I mean Lauren couldn't just let these two be happy and threw something terrible at them. OUT OF NOWHERE. And I can’t tell you what, because spoilers. It was almost too heavy for a "nerdy and flirty" romance, which Lauren acknowledged at the start. I do wonder if maybe it was too sensitive a topic to be handled so lightly, and it could catch some people unawares, so if you really want to know, here's a warning in spoiler tags:
But these two loved each other, and they made it through. And that’s what matters. I almost forgive Lauren.
My one issue with this book is that the writing style is still a little awkward and stilted. There are info dumps here and there instead of information being blended in with the narrative. Also, for some reason, Link's chapters flowed smoother than Ruby's? Something about the dialogue and more natural narration. But you know what? I stopped noticing as much as I got caught up in the story! So it was fine!
Honestly, I just really like that this series exists. Pro gaming is a real profession, and nerd love is the best. FQ out.
Link and Ruby finally have their story. All that bickering is coming to fruition. Hallelujah.
Do you know when you can see a car wreck coming, and time slows down? You can’t look away? That’s what reading this book was like. In a good way of course. But also a sort of terrible, angsty way. You see, both Link and Ruby are dating other people at the start of this book, and both of those relationships are not ideal.
Link, on the one hand, is with someone only superficially interested in him. That’s easy enough to understand, right? He wants Amber because he doesn’t want anything serious. (Also, he totally wants Ruby from the beginning, let’s not kid ourselves.) And she wants Link (or should I say, “Lincoln”) because he’s rich and famous. Whatever. I get it. I won’t judge.
What’s harder for me not to judge, but what I actually 100% understand, is Ruby’s relationship with Mason. I get it. I do. And that makes me hate it so much more. Because Ruby was like I was, thinking that I had to settle down at some point, watching her friends do the same. She felt the pressure, and she wasn’t even 25 at the start of the book. That pressure made her not trust her gut all the times it was screaming that Mason wasn’t right for her.
Just a reminder that you do not have to settle to settle down. If you do want to get married and have kids, fine, but don’t impose a stupid deadline on it that only makes you panic and convince yourself to stick with someone who is unsupportive, uncaring, and inattentive. You can and deserve to hold out for the right person, someone who won’t belittle your interests and insult your friends. Don’t date a Mason. (Sorry to any guys named Mason who are not tosspots.) Instead, find yourself someone who will be there for you when you’re in trouble, even when they’re busy.
So while the two of them had this crazy chemistry that shone through more and more throughout the story, I had to slog through all my rage and resentment at Mason first. What a fopdoodle. And it was an incredible moment when the two finally stopped fighting what they had. I almost cheered out loud. I bet the rest of the gang wanted to cheer in the book.
BUT THEN IT GOT WORSE. And when I say worse, I mean Lauren couldn't just let these two be happy and threw something terrible at them. OUT OF NOWHERE. And I can’t tell you what, because spoilers. It was almost too heavy for a "nerdy and flirty" romance, which Lauren acknowledged at the start. I do wonder if maybe it was too sensitive a topic to be handled so lightly, and it could catch some people unawares, so if you really want to know, here's a warning in spoiler tags:
But these two loved each other, and they made it through. And that’s what matters. I almost forgive Lauren.
My one issue with this book is that the writing style is still a little awkward and stilted. There are info dumps here and there instead of information being blended in with the narrative. Also, for some reason, Link's chapters flowed smoother than Ruby's? Something about the dialogue and more natural narration. But you know what? I stopped noticing as much as I got caught up in the story! So it was fine!
Honestly, I just really like that this series exists. Pro gaming is a real profession, and nerd love is the best. FQ out.
November 22, 2018
I've been waiting for Ruby and Link's story for so long and I'm SO happy that Ms. Helms didn't disappoint!
If you've read the first two in the series (which, hopefully you have because you're missing out otherwise!) you've likely witnessed the chemistry between Ruby and Link yourself. It jumps off of the pages when the story isn't about them and even more so when it IS!
We see Ruby, who refuses to be anyone but her nerdy self- something I completely respect!- as she navigates her lackluster relationship with a sports reporter and her friendship with the rest of the gamer group.
And then there's Link, who is seriously such a good guy! He offers the kind of friendship that is completely irreplaceable- honestly, loyalty, devotion, and a heaping of corniness!
The two of them have ignored their chemistry for so long but it bleeds out of their friendship and is finally unable to be ignored any longer. Once they get together, we get it all- romance, hilarity, sexiness, heartbreak, and happiness. Their journey took me on a roller coaster of emotions and I never wanted the ride to be over!
Game All Night was everything I wanted it to be and so much more. It's a perfect addition to the Gamer Boy series and a must read! I absolutely cannot wait to see what else Ms. Helms has in store for us!
If you've read the first two in the series (which, hopefully you have because you're missing out otherwise!) you've likely witnessed the chemistry between Ruby and Link yourself. It jumps off of the pages when the story isn't about them and even more so when it IS!
We see Ruby, who refuses to be anyone but her nerdy self- something I completely respect!- as she navigates her lackluster relationship with a sports reporter and her friendship with the rest of the gamer group.
And then there's Link, who is seriously such a good guy! He offers the kind of friendship that is completely irreplaceable- honestly, loyalty, devotion, and a heaping of corniness!
The two of them have ignored their chemistry for so long but it bleeds out of their friendship and is finally unable to be ignored any longer. Once they get together, we get it all- romance, hilarity, sexiness, heartbreak, and happiness. Their journey took me on a roller coaster of emotions and I never wanted the ride to be over!
Game All Night was everything I wanted it to be and so much more. It's a perfect addition to the Gamer Boy series and a must read! I absolutely cannot wait to see what else Ms. Helms has in store for us!
November 27, 2018
This is my first book by this author; and, although it is from a series, I feel it could definitely be read as a standalone (I do want to go back & read the others though!!)
I loved Ruby & Link. Their relationship seems "real" to me and I love that they are friends who dance around things for a while. She's a journalist, he's a gamer. They run in the same group of friends. There's an attraction, but is it something more?
Also - disclaimer - I am NOT at all a gamer, but that did not distract from the great story for me whatsoever!
I feel Ruby's emotions and reactions are spot on to the things that are happening in the story and the characters are extremely realistic. And although the book contains some sad situations, the author still infuses humor into the book - which to me is also very real.
Enjoyed this book a lot and will be looking into more from this author!
I loved Ruby & Link. Their relationship seems "real" to me and I love that they are friends who dance around things for a while. She's a journalist, he's a gamer. They run in the same group of friends. There's an attraction, but is it something more?
Also - disclaimer - I am NOT at all a gamer, but that did not distract from the great story for me whatsoever!
I feel Ruby's emotions and reactions are spot on to the things that are happening in the story and the characters are extremely realistic. And although the book contains some sad situations, the author still infuses humor into the book - which to me is also very real.
Enjoyed this book a lot and will be looking into more from this author!
November 26, 2018
"In it to win it." A fun pasttime becomes a complicated matter of the heart. Link and Ruby are a perfect match in the virtual world, but in the real world not so much. Colossal egos, significant others and life in generally has always gotten in the way. On the surface friendship makes sense, but what happens when those long dormant feelings become something more? Game All Night is the culmination of a storm that refuses to be tamed. It's a bumpy ride to forever, but well worth the trip.
November 21, 2018
This is the third book in this awesome series, and is Ruby and Link’s story. These two make for an entertaining and fun read, as well as with all of the other characters from previous novels, this is a definite must read series. This is a well written story, which is intense, hilarious, fun and an emotional rollercoaster journey throughout. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more form this talented author, as well as highly recommend her work for all readers.
March 26, 2022
Story of Ruby and Link. You really need to read the first 2 books to understand their relationship or lack thereof.
This is sad. Linc proves to be an awesome book boyfriend.
This is sad. Linc proves to be an awesome book boyfriend.
November 24, 2018
Loved loved loved Ruby's and Links story..I knew their story was going to be awesome!!! great characters in this series
November 26, 2018
This is Lauren’s third book and third book of the series. I love all the characters and the way she writes the series. This book was just the same, you get reeled in the story of the two main characters but don’t forget the others that are there. I love Ruby and her relationship with the girls, including Bernie. Link is a confident man but he knows what he wants and he isn’t going to stop being there for Ruby. This was an intense story and I’m glad it was written.
December 3, 2018
Link and Ruby. Friends to lovers. This is the couple I had been waiting for - as secondary characters in the first two books of the series, they were my favorites. Now that they are the lead, I love them even more.
Their connection started with banter and playful quips, flirting and fun. Once all the drama comes full circle, they realize how deep their true feelings lie and to see them come full circle was kind of beautiful. Lauren has done these characters justice. I adored this book so much.
Their connection started with banter and playful quips, flirting and fun. Once all the drama comes full circle, they realize how deep their true feelings lie and to see them come full circle was kind of beautiful. Lauren has done these characters justice. I adored this book so much.
February 28, 2021
Fabulous Story & Listen🎧 Captivating & Heartfelt!
Game All Night
Gamer Boy, Book 3
By: Lauren Helms
Narrated by: Rae Miles
Lauren Helms pens another fabulous novel in her “Gamer Boy” series. This enjoyable friends to lovers romance
contains a whole lot of heart. The story grabbed my attention right from the start and held it to the very end. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. I adored the lead characters, Ruby and Link, they have been friends for several years. They tried to be more at first but felt they were best at just being friends. Link is a professional gamer and Ruby is a journalist for a trendy news website. There friendship and bond grew over the past couple of years, there is chemistry between them but neither acknowledge it. Ruby has been casually dating Mason and she wants to take the relationship to a more permanent level. Then she finally sees his true colors and how much of a jerk he is, the guy is all about him plus he looked down on her friends for their career choice. She truly dodged a bullet with that guy. Link finally got rid of his girlfriend, who was more of a hanger-on type of a girl. I was rooting for these two to get together and cheered when they were both free and even happier when they finally realized they wanted each other. I loved how everything played out in this book, the story flows naturally and is nicely plotted with the perfect balance of drama, angst, some humor, heartfelt and emotional moments and a wonderful romance. Lauren Helms thank you for another great enjoyable and entertaining story, I love this series and the amazing characters you created.
🎧📚🎧 Rae Miles did a great job with the narration and bringing the characters and their story to life. She set the perfect tone for the story, captured the character’s emotions and projected them into her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
Game All Night
Gamer Boy, Book 3
By: Lauren Helms
Narrated by: Rae Miles
Lauren Helms pens another fabulous novel in her “Gamer Boy” series. This enjoyable friends to lovers romance
contains a whole lot of heart. The story grabbed my attention right from the start and held it to the very end. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. I adored the lead characters, Ruby and Link, they have been friends for several years. They tried to be more at first but felt they were best at just being friends. Link is a professional gamer and Ruby is a journalist for a trendy news website. There friendship and bond grew over the past couple of years, there is chemistry between them but neither acknowledge it. Ruby has been casually dating Mason and she wants to take the relationship to a more permanent level. Then she finally sees his true colors and how much of a jerk he is, the guy is all about him plus he looked down on her friends for their career choice. She truly dodged a bullet with that guy. Link finally got rid of his girlfriend, who was more of a hanger-on type of a girl. I was rooting for these two to get together and cheered when they were both free and even happier when they finally realized they wanted each other. I loved how everything played out in this book, the story flows naturally and is nicely plotted with the perfect balance of drama, angst, some humor, heartfelt and emotional moments and a wonderful romance. Lauren Helms thank you for another great enjoyable and entertaining story, I love this series and the amazing characters you created.
🎧📚🎧 Rae Miles did a great job with the narration and bringing the characters and their story to life. She set the perfect tone for the story, captured the character’s emotions and projected them into her performance. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
November 26, 2018
Game All Night is the third book in Lauren Helms‘s Gamer Boy series, but all three can be read as standalones. (They’re all definitely worth reading, though, and the first two are available on Kindle Unlimited.)
Link is a member of the gaming team (yes, they are professional gamers and yes that is a real thing!). Ruby is a journalist at a Buzzfeed-type web company and part of their circle of close friends. Ruby and Link have been close for a couple years, making videos for Link’s YouTube channel and having fun hanging out together. At one point in the past they *almost* hooked up, but Ruby stopped it and decided they should stay good friends, not wanting to mess up the group dynamic or their friendship if anything went wrong.
In the first third of the book, both Link and Ruby are involved with other people. Ruby’s boyfriend is a narcissistic sports reporter on the local NBC affiliate station, and treats Ruby horribly. Link is seeing someone basically as a distraction, and because she’s there. On the night of Ruby’s birthday, when her boyfriend doesn’t show up for her party and makes her cry, Link makes a comment that starts Ruby thinking that maybe she was wrong about the two of them just being friends.
Of course, life isn’t always easy or perfect. When Link and Ruby finally get together, it’s beautiful how good they are for each other. When they are faced with a life altering surprise, they handle themselves better than many 20-somethings in these types of books. But then, the book gets surprisingly deep. I was not expecting the events that happened, but I’m so glad Ms Helms wrote the scenes between Link and Ruby, and Ruby and her friends, like she did. I’m trying not to spoil anything, but it’s a subject that happens in that age group more often than you think, and gets brushed aside by well-meaning (or uncertain-feeling) friends and relatives. It’s important that readers can experience how the characters worked through this and recognize that it’s okay to not be okay.
What I liked: Link and Ruby as a couple. So good. Revisiting Dex and Morgan, Simon and Gia, and the other characters were like catching up with friends again. The whole handling of the “big events” as I said earlier.
What I didn’t like: Ruby’s mom should have been there longer!! And real talk, the first 20% of the book was hard for me to get into. I already liked the characters from the first two books, and ended up loving the book, but there was so much internal Ruby monologue that I just couldn’t get engrossed in the book like I usually do. But it picks up quickly.
Overall: Read this book!
Link is a member of the gaming team (yes, they are professional gamers and yes that is a real thing!). Ruby is a journalist at a Buzzfeed-type web company and part of their circle of close friends. Ruby and Link have been close for a couple years, making videos for Link’s YouTube channel and having fun hanging out together. At one point in the past they *almost* hooked up, but Ruby stopped it and decided they should stay good friends, not wanting to mess up the group dynamic or their friendship if anything went wrong.
In the first third of the book, both Link and Ruby are involved with other people. Ruby’s boyfriend is a narcissistic sports reporter on the local NBC affiliate station, and treats Ruby horribly. Link is seeing someone basically as a distraction, and because she’s there. On the night of Ruby’s birthday, when her boyfriend doesn’t show up for her party and makes her cry, Link makes a comment that starts Ruby thinking that maybe she was wrong about the two of them just being friends.
Of course, life isn’t always easy or perfect. When Link and Ruby finally get together, it’s beautiful how good they are for each other. When they are faced with a life altering surprise, they handle themselves better than many 20-somethings in these types of books. But then, the book gets surprisingly deep. I was not expecting the events that happened, but I’m so glad Ms Helms wrote the scenes between Link and Ruby, and Ruby and her friends, like she did. I’m trying not to spoil anything, but it’s a subject that happens in that age group more often than you think, and gets brushed aside by well-meaning (or uncertain-feeling) friends and relatives. It’s important that readers can experience how the characters worked through this and recognize that it’s okay to not be okay.
What I liked: Link and Ruby as a couple. So good. Revisiting Dex and Morgan, Simon and Gia, and the other characters were like catching up with friends again. The whole handling of the “big events” as I said earlier.
What I didn’t like: Ruby’s mom should have been there longer!! And real talk, the first 20% of the book was hard for me to get into. I already liked the characters from the first two books, and ended up loving the book, but there was so much internal Ruby monologue that I just couldn’t get engrossed in the book like I usually do. But it picks up quickly.
Overall: Read this book!
December 1, 2018
Let the Games Begin!!!
I was asked if I wanted to read and review Game All Night. I said sure, it sounded like a story I might enjoy reading. What a surprise, I didn’t just enjoy this story I actually, truly love this story. It was a sweat, friend to lover story told in the 1st person narrative, which made this story even more enjoyable, though I don’t customarily read these types of stories. I try to stay clear if at all possible. So, a big Thank You to Lauren for not giving me, enough time to think upon my decision to read Game All Night.
Game All Night takes us readers into the world of Video Games, and YouTubers…Two of my most favored things to do… playing video games and making fan videos to upload onto YouTube. But, after reading Game All Night, I realized something! I am still a Nubby when it comes to playing video games.
During the story, readers are submerged into the two worlds. All the characters in this series, are involved to some extent. I never read book one or two. So, I don’t know how popular the other characters are, but Link and Ruby seem to be the most popular on YouTube.
If I had to pick my favorite character, out of this story, it must be Link. He was a dream of a character. He was reliable and willing to drop everything to help a friend. I don’t like to give spoilers, so, I won’t tell you the predicament, Ruby found herself in that required Link assistance. But I will tell you that if your dating a guy name Mason…who is heartless, unaccommodating, and doesn’t seem to get along with your friends. Then my best advice would be to drop him like a bad habit and don’t give a second thought about it.
Though I found enjoyment in this story. It wasn’t without faults. For instance, one of my favorite television shows, if I have the chance to sit and watch is Maurey. Especially, the paternity test segment…. If you ever watched an episode on this topic then you see were, I am going with this. Ruby puts drama where drama wasn’t needed. If there was an award for a Man of the Year for a fictional character, then I would nominate Link. If only I wasn’t jaded, on dating. Some men would have a hard time to live up to Link’s mannerisms.
2018 is almost over. I’ve read so many books. Some that were so bad that even a scathing review wasn’t worth writing. However, I did have the pleasure to read some truly good stories. By which, Gaming All Night will fall into this category. With the way that Lauren Helms told the story of Link and Ruby, I may have to adjust my thinking on stories that are written on 1st person narration.
I was asked if I wanted to read and review Game All Night. I said sure, it sounded like a story I might enjoy reading. What a surprise, I didn’t just enjoy this story I actually, truly love this story. It was a sweat, friend to lover story told in the 1st person narrative, which made this story even more enjoyable, though I don’t customarily read these types of stories. I try to stay clear if at all possible. So, a big Thank You to Lauren for not giving me, enough time to think upon my decision to read Game All Night.
Game All Night takes us readers into the world of Video Games, and YouTubers…Two of my most favored things to do… playing video games and making fan videos to upload onto YouTube. But, after reading Game All Night, I realized something! I am still a Nubby when it comes to playing video games.
During the story, readers are submerged into the two worlds. All the characters in this series, are involved to some extent. I never read book one or two. So, I don’t know how popular the other characters are, but Link and Ruby seem to be the most popular on YouTube.
If I had to pick my favorite character, out of this story, it must be Link. He was a dream of a character. He was reliable and willing to drop everything to help a friend. I don’t like to give spoilers, so, I won’t tell you the predicament, Ruby found herself in that required Link assistance. But I will tell you that if your dating a guy name Mason…who is heartless, unaccommodating, and doesn’t seem to get along with your friends. Then my best advice would be to drop him like a bad habit and don’t give a second thought about it.
Though I found enjoyment in this story. It wasn’t without faults. For instance, one of my favorite television shows, if I have the chance to sit and watch is Maurey. Especially, the paternity test segment…. If you ever watched an episode on this topic then you see were, I am going with this. Ruby puts drama where drama wasn’t needed. If there was an award for a Man of the Year for a fictional character, then I would nominate Link. If only I wasn’t jaded, on dating. Some men would have a hard time to live up to Link’s mannerisms.
2018 is almost over. I’ve read so many books. Some that were so bad that even a scathing review wasn’t worth writing. However, I did have the pleasure to read some truly good stories. By which, Gaming All Night will fall into this category. With the way that Lauren Helms told the story of Link and Ruby, I may have to adjust my thinking on stories that are written on 1st person narration.
March 9, 2021
The first two books of this series are focused on other pairings within this wonderful group of friends that is brought together when Dex and Mo find each other. This book is Ruby and Linc. For the last books, we see them at first going at each other, but mostly light ribbing and teasing. They test and torment each other, and their friendship is fun to see unfold. But you can tell there’s more to their relationship that they aren’t willing to admit. Their friends bring it up from time to time, and the seeds are planted that we want to know more about them. Now, they’ve been friends for 2 years, and they’ve become really good friends. They’re both dating other people, and both are secretly super jealous of the others SO. I don’t even understand why Ruby continues to date her boyfriend, because he’s a total jerk, but I have to chalk it up to being easier to stay than confront the issues. When they both find themselves single and in a position to be together they decide to go for it, much to the joy of everyone around them. It would seem that their relationship is a no brained, but the universe throws them for a pretty major loop, and it tests them, hard. The story touches on a couple very sensitive subjects, and does it well, and realistically. Dealing (or not) with trauma and it’s effects are really big here. I just have to say, while he may not make all the right moves all the time, and he definitely has that cocky attitude to fall back on, Linc is an amazing boyfriend. I’ve found it interesting that the biggest pushbacks in this series have come from the women, for various reasons, and these men all step up brilliantly. Once again, the wonderful friends circle that has been created here adds a fantastic layer to the story as well. This story puts you through the emotional ringer, but it comes out the other end in such a great way. Each book in this series has progressively gotten better. And I really, really hope that Bernie gets her own book!!
November 26, 2018
Ruby Jacobs shows that even women can like comics. She may not be a gamer herself but those in her circle are. I like how she supports them. She thinks she wants one thing but ends up wanting what her heart wants. Those that are really into the gaming scene will feel at home here. This does read as a standalone but characters from the previous two books make appearances.
Link Witt gives us a glimpse into a world you may never knew existed – unless you are a part of this author’s world. But if not, the author creates a scene where he explains it to us. He seems to be a patient young man. He knows his time will come when the time is right – but it’s not without its ups and downs.
One thing I liked about this book is the sense of family even though they are all friends. You can see how much they really care about each other. The gaming aspect is there but the relationships/changing relationships are more prevalent. We get to see the tension and chemistry that comes from that change. There’s heat once the switch is flipped but the author leaves enough for your imagination to fill in the blanks. She also may have you thinking about your own friends – your own budding relationship. I liked the little twist that our author took the time to put in. The ending gives me a feeling of a lead in to the next book in the series.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Link Witt gives us a glimpse into a world you may never knew existed – unless you are a part of this author’s world. But if not, the author creates a scene where he explains it to us. He seems to be a patient young man. He knows his time will come when the time is right – but it’s not without its ups and downs.
One thing I liked about this book is the sense of family even though they are all friends. You can see how much they really care about each other. The gaming aspect is there but the relationships/changing relationships are more prevalent. We get to see the tension and chemistry that comes from that change. There’s heat once the switch is flipped but the author leaves enough for your imagination to fill in the blanks. She also may have you thinking about your own friends – your own budding relationship. I liked the little twist that our author took the time to put in. The ending gives me a feeling of a lead in to the next book in the series.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 27, 2018
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the amazing Lauren Helm's Gamer Boy series, as it's fun & original, so Game All Night is absolutely no exception. Ruby & Link are like the best of friends, although everyone knows that they should be more, but they won't take the risk, just in case things go wrong. So they continue to see other people who are oh so wrong for them. But a chemistry like they have won't be denied forever, so will they finally give in to it? This story grabbed my attention from the beginning, and made it impossible to put down until every last page was devoured. Everyone from previous books made up the secondaries, so you know that the hilarious moments were peppered throughout, and it kept me laughing a lot. Then there's Ruby & Link, well let's just say that they put me through the emotional wringer, and I can't tell you why, as some of it made for some big twists that I never saw coming. They were so shocking that the f-bombs had to drop from every direction in fact, not to mention, kind of had my eyes leak a time or two. I said it before, and I'll say it again, I LOVE this series, so I CANNOT WAIT for more, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
November 25, 2018
Title: Game All Night
Author: Lauren Helms
Genre: Contemporary Gamer Romance
**RECEIVED AN ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW**
Well, this was my first gamer romance. I am used to reading about a younger generation but rarely about a subculture such as this. You read about librarians or bookstore owners. Or so called "nerds" who love to read and watch certain shows and movies; but here are gamers, comic book lovers, YouTube Stars, Comic Con Fans. Needless to say it was interesting in that aspect.
The writing itself was flowed. It wasn't blotchy or choppy. It stayed on point. That is a major plus in my opinion.
The author did deal with some serious issues beyond lag time. Lag is what makes most gamers want to throw their controllers through their televisions. Anyway, the author touched on serious subjects that show no matter how strong you think you are, you aren't.
I liked this book but truthfully I felt it dragged on a little more than necessary. It could speed up a little. But truthfully it was a nice read that I really enjoyed and recommend.
Author: Lauren Helms
Genre: Contemporary Gamer Romance
**RECEIVED AN ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW**
Well, this was my first gamer romance. I am used to reading about a younger generation but rarely about a subculture such as this. You read about librarians or bookstore owners. Or so called "nerds" who love to read and watch certain shows and movies; but here are gamers, comic book lovers, YouTube Stars, Comic Con Fans. Needless to say it was interesting in that aspect.
The writing itself was flowed. It wasn't blotchy or choppy. It stayed on point. That is a major plus in my opinion.
The author did deal with some serious issues beyond lag time. Lag is what makes most gamers want to throw their controllers through their televisions. Anyway, the author touched on serious subjects that show no matter how strong you think you are, you aren't.
I liked this book but truthfully I felt it dragged on a little more than necessary. It could speed up a little. But truthfully it was a nice read that I really enjoyed and recommend.
November 28, 2018
Lauren Helms Gamer Boy series gets better with each book!
Link and Ruby's back and forth was established in the first two books, and I was looking forward to seeing how their friendship turned into more. I liked how their relationship evolved naturally. It did seem like a national extension of their friendship once they decided they were ready to take the next step.
Out of all the couples in the series Link and Ruby are my favorite! Both felt like realistic portrayals of young adults in their 20s, both the good and the bad. Sometimes I found myself frustrated with both their actions as the plot progressed, especially Link in the last third of the book. However, I can see why they would act and react how they do.
While this can be read as a standalone, I do recommend checking out the other two books in the series first.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Link and Ruby's back and forth was established in the first two books, and I was looking forward to seeing how their friendship turned into more. I liked how their relationship evolved naturally. It did seem like a national extension of their friendship once they decided they were ready to take the next step.
Out of all the couples in the series Link and Ruby are my favorite! Both felt like realistic portrayals of young adults in their 20s, both the good and the bad. Sometimes I found myself frustrated with both their actions as the plot progressed, especially Link in the last third of the book. However, I can see why they would act and react how they do.
While this can be read as a standalone, I do recommend checking out the other two books in the series first.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
November 27, 2018
Link and Ruby are part of the same group of friends and he is a gamer while she is journalist. They are both attracted to each other but have chosen to remain friends only so that it doesn’t affect their friendship with each other and the others in their circle.
Ruby is dating a sport reporter and their relationship has been steadily declining while the woman that Link is dating is more convenience than true love. When they both find themselves single at the same time, they decide to cross that line but to become the couple that they are meant to be they must rely on each other to get them through the obstacles that life is throwing at them.
I not enjoyed seeing Ruby and Link interact, but it was great to catch up with the other characters we know and love and seeing the bond that they all have for each other. This is a great series and this book is no exception.
Ruby is dating a sport reporter and their relationship has been steadily declining while the woman that Link is dating is more convenience than true love. When they both find themselves single at the same time, they decide to cross that line but to become the couple that they are meant to be they must rely on each other to get them through the obstacles that life is throwing at them.
I not enjoyed seeing Ruby and Link interact, but it was great to catch up with the other characters we know and love and seeing the bond that they all have for each other. This is a great series and this book is no exception.
November 26, 2018
I loved Game All Night! Linc and Ruby are my favorite Gamer Boy couple yet; there is no crazy drama, secrets, or lies with these two. Ruby and Linc are meant for eachother, everyone in their close knit group knows it, but Ruby friend zones Linc because she's worried about messing up the group dynamic if things don't work out. Both newly single, Ruby and Linc decide to make a go at a relationship. After some life drama, that I won't go into because spoilers, Ruby tries to push Linc away. Linc being Linc, does not give up, he's there for her no matter what, and it's not easy because Ruby is being a bitch. With Linc's persistence, and love, and a dose of reality for Ruby, they end up getting their HEA in the end. Game all night had me smiling and crying. Again, my favorite so far.I recieved an ARC of Game All Night in exchange for an honest review. I cannot wait for Bernie's and Wade's story!
November 30, 2018
I didn't realize how much I needed Ruby and Link's story! After reading the first 2 books in this series, I've become invested in these characters. You don't need to read the other 2 books but there are events that happen in those books that are eluded to in this story so you should just go ahead and read the other 2 - and book 1 is $.99 right now!
Ruby is an anomaly; hot girl who plays video games. Definitely not a common theme in the romance genre. But same thing with the other players on the team. Ruby and Link live to tease and test each other.
I love the friendships this group has formed. They aren't always conventional but they're real and deep. I love reading stories like this because it's like they've formed a family by choice rather than by blood.
Ruby is an anomaly; hot girl who plays video games. Definitely not a common theme in the romance genre. But same thing with the other players on the team. Ruby and Link live to tease and test each other.
I love the friendships this group has formed. They aren't always conventional but they're real and deep. I love reading stories like this because it's like they've formed a family by choice rather than by blood.
November 27, 2018
I was so looking forward to this book. I was a bit apprehensive when the author hinted that she had taken a darker turn with it, but I ended up loving it.
Since the beginning of the series, everyone who has eyes and has hung out with Team Nomad can see that Link & Ruby have the hots for each other. They are good friends with just the right amount of snark & tension to suggest they'd work so much better as lovers. I loved the entire plot, from beginning to end. The way their relationship just improved instead of changing completely was something I really appreciated.
I really am excited for more from Lauren Helms and this series.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Since the beginning of the series, everyone who has eyes and has hung out with Team Nomad can see that Link & Ruby have the hots for each other. They are good friends with just the right amount of snark & tension to suggest they'd work so much better as lovers. I loved the entire plot, from beginning to end. The way their relationship just improved instead of changing completely was something I really appreciated.
I really am excited for more from Lauren Helms and this series.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 9, 2019
4 "More than Friends?" Stars
Gah!!! Link is like my dream book boyfriend I just love him and all his cockiness!!
Like the other characters, we're originally introduced to them in Level Me Up and One More Round. I loved the bickering between Link & Ruby and was looking forward to their story and was not disappointed!
Don't want this series to end!
Gah!!! Link is like my dream book boyfriend I just love him and all his cockiness!!
Like the other characters, we're originally introduced to them in Level Me Up and One More Round. I loved the bickering between Link & Ruby and was looking forward to their story and was not disappointed!
Don't want this series to end!
November 26, 2018
This is the third book in the Gamer Boy Series. I enjoyed it more than I did the first two (although I did enjoy those too). Link is a relatable realistic book boyfriend. There were definitely some ups and downs throughout the story and it was not just a HEA where everything went perfectly with their relationship from the start. But... that is one of the reasons I loved this book. It was a bit of a slow burn, which I tend to love and there were some funny parts as well. Overall I really enjoyed this read and I didn't want to put it down.
November 28, 2018
Wow, what a great book. This is so much more than just people sitting around playing games hours on end. There's wonderful love story here.
Link is a full time gamer, which is his career choice and makes a killing do it. While Ruby , his friend, has just gotten a promotion in management for a gaming division. During their friendship Link, of course flirts with her, dropping brazen comments. As time goes on, Ruby and Link develop a relationship that withstands so much.
I loved reading this one. I will be keeping tabs on this author and waiting for book 4 to come out.
Link is a full time gamer, which is his career choice and makes a killing do it. While Ruby , his friend, has just gotten a promotion in management for a gaming division. During their friendship Link, of course flirts with her, dropping brazen comments. As time goes on, Ruby and Link develop a relationship that withstands so much.
I loved reading this one. I will be keeping tabs on this author and waiting for book 4 to come out.
August 6, 2020
Game All Night by Lauren Helms is the third book in the Gamer Boy series. This is a fun and Nerdy friends to lovers romance story. Ruby and Link are fantastic characters with lots of chemistry. I love the back and forth with them and had fun getting to see their livestock unfold from friends to lovers. The story was entertaining and interesting with angst, humor, sweetness, emotion and a few surprises. I really did feel a lot of feeling reading this one, a few moments hurt... but there was so much goodness that I just loved it all.
November 26, 2018
#FallInLoveWithAGamerBoy
Oh. My. Gosh.
Seriously, Lauren knocked it out of the park with this one. Ruby and Link stole my heart in the first pages. I found myself rooting for them and slowly dying for them to finally get it together! The slower burn in this book was so darn perfect and then when it did happen...BOOM.
Everyone needs a Link in their lives. For real. Lauren totally delivered the ultimate book boyfriend.
Oh. My. Gosh.
Seriously, Lauren knocked it out of the park with this one. Ruby and Link stole my heart in the first pages. I found myself rooting for them and slowly dying for them to finally get it together! The slower burn in this book was so darn perfect and then when it did happen...BOOM.
Everyone needs a Link in their lives. For real. Lauren totally delivered the ultimate book boyfriend.
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