The Games We Play (Paperback or Softback)

A flirty, emotional small-town second chance romance where a guarded bartender and a fiercely independent woman learn that love isn’t a game—it’s something you have to fight for.

**DELUXE LIMITED EDITION FIRST PRINT RUN—featuring beautiful sprayed edges. Special edition features only available for a limited time and while supplies last.**

Penny Hudson found her family in the people she chose—new friends, found sisters, and one fiercely protective old lady who took her in when she needed it most. Life in Faircloud was never picture-perfect, but Penny survived it with laughter and her favorite music cranked up loud.

Mac Ridley grew up behind the bar at The Tequila Cowboy, always working, always watching. He’s built his life by keeping his head down, stacking tips, and staying far away from anything that could tie him to his father’s messy legacy. Emotions? Not in the game plan.

But when friends and circumstance throw Penny and Mac together, a secret six-month fling turns into something that feels dangerously like more until one mistake tears them apart.

Now, Mac wants a second chance. But Penny isn’t making it easy, and maybe that’s exactly what he needs. Because this time, charm won’t cut it. If he wants her back, he’ll have to prove it with effort, with honesty, and maybe even on his knees.

The man so used to being chased becomes the chaser in The Games We Play: a flirty, fiery, small-town romance about second chances and fighting for the love you almost lost.

M. Hartley is a hopeless romantic with a passion for crafting heartfelt stories about small-town charm and rugged fictional cowboys (with big hearts and big…) When she’s not writing, while drinking a glass of sweet red wine, she can be found doting on her beloved dog, Hank, or indulging in her absurd Swedish Fish addiction. Dedicated to making readers fall head over heels for romance, M. Hartley believes there’s nothing better than a love story that lingers long after the last page is turned.