When you sign on to read a Cardeno C. novel, you are positive to get three things in return: first, a romance that is sweet and rewarding; second, a happy ever after that comes with very little angst or troubles; and third, a feel good emotional reward that leaves you smiling long after the novel’s end. Cardeno C. is a master at romance—sweet, sometimes sappy, yet always a complete story where boy meets boy, boy gets boy and they both live happily ever after....This author dares to create a happy ever after for an average guy, with an above average man who desires him. In the end, Not a Game becomes a magical fairytale romance that delivers all the feels and emotions with a twist—characters who are, for once, utterly real and worthy of love.

This is a lovely steamy M/M quickie. The audio narration is done well and brought the story alive. 

Story is sweet with a touch of spice and some nice shots of humor

Emotionally laden romance with excellent alternating dual first-person narration that I devoured. Its cloying sweetness and perfection hit my romance sweet-tooth perfectly. ... I'm a sucker for the friends to lovers romance trope and I got that here but without a lot of angst that usually happens for the previously "straight" lead. Jake's total acceptance of his love for Nate had a simplicity that is rarely found in gay-for-you books and I ate it with a spoon! This book is emotionally intense where every sex scene is steeped in the men's grandiose feelings for each other and I loved this huge romantic relationship....I loved how this romance was told as well as the huge, idealistic relationship between two nearly perfect men.

If you're already a fan, it's a must read/listen. If you've never read this author's work before...well, what better way to start than with a brand new series with sexy, growly shifters.