My name is Scarlett Mavis. I have a sweet tooth, no filters, and video games are my life. Let me clarify that last part: They’re not a hobby; they’re not a way to kill the time; They. Are. My. LIFE. Where family, men, and humans, in general, have failed me, video games are always there waiting for me to return to their warm and accepting embrace. In real life I may be a heartbroken geek, but put … put a controller in my hands and I become an indestructible warrior. What else does a girl really need?Enter player two, Kane Decker.Handsome, nerdy, incredible kisser, and just my type. Our first date was perfect in every way. Then, like always, reality came crashing down with one simple truth. He wasn’t my teammate; he was the enemy. And there’s nothing I’m better at than taking out a rival player. But this isn’t a game, and the stakes are all too real. For the first time in my life, I may have met my match. Game on.18+
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I ate up every word like Scarlett eating candy!! This book was seriously the perfect happy read for any fellow nerd/misfit like me!
Adulting me will tell you that the storyline is extremely well executed, and you’ll absolutely fall in love with not just the main characters, but their supporting ones as well. When S.K. described it as lighthearted and funny, she absolutely nailed it because it really was a perfect fun read for me.
Book nerd me will tell you ehrmagawd all needs need to ONE CLICK NOW!! I’m claiming 2 book Boyfriends from this book so back off ladies *puts Kane and Wren in my harem
Scarlett a female gamer that was jaded by rejection, is breaking the stigma on female gamers, undercover. She is at the top of the charts doing more than holding her own. Why? She has a successful family and a path that is less resistant all she has to do is grab it by the horns and soar. Doing so would make life with her mom would be easier, but….nope, that’s not her, she has her own goals, even if she is antisocial with very few IRL friends, she has Julie, Wren, & Nessa.
A blind date is just what Julie thinks she needs, that goes beyond great and utterly wrong in less than 24-hours…..What could be so terribly wrong with Kane that she bolts?
Holy crap this book has everything you could want! Video games, rivalry, sweaty scenes, candy, pranks I mean come on! What’s better than that!? Kade is so set and I love his drive to get everything he wants…including his fiery redhead!
SK Rose has proven she is not only a queen of dark & angsty but she’s also a queen with rom coms.
I FLOVED everything about Tactical Heart, from the banter between Scar & Kane to spanglish speaking Nessa.
This rom com will have you scratching your head at some of the terminology because let’s face it, a lot of us are noobs (haha see what I did there) BUT Rose has provided us with a glossary for the gamer terminology like the awesome thinks of everything author that she is. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry from laughing, you’ll laugh some more, and sigh with happiness.
I also really loved every character that was introduced, well maybe not Scars mom at first but I eventually loved her too.
Overall I absolutely loved and adored Tactical Heart. SK Rose is genius and diverse in her writing. This is only her 3rd book but she has shown she is a force to be reckoned with and is taking the romance world by storm! Bravo Rose Bravo
I just finished reading Tactical Heart and I want to forget everything that I read…
Just so I can read it all over again.
S.K. Rose hit it out the fucking park with her first ROMCOM. Then again after the mind blowing debut duet she released, I should have known that this was going to be a 10 star read. Yes I said 10 stars, deal with it. There was the perfect balance of comedy and romance that I couldn’t believe that this was Rose’s first ROMCOM. She may have found her calling.
Scarlett and Kane were the perfect nerdy couple. Well when they weren’t fighting that is. You could just tell that Rose sculpted her characters from the nerd life style that she knows and understands. This was what made the characters so real to life and relatable. Scarlett was that strong female character that was comfortable in herself and excepted her competitive side. Then add in the fact that she had the balls go toe to toe with the boys. She is totally a female character that can be anyone’s next book girlfriend. Kane, well he is totally swoon worthy. If only polygamy was legal, I so would keep Scarlett and Kane for myself.
Even the supporting characters were ones that will grab your attention, but they don’t take the focus away from the main two. Your given just enough of them to picture them in your head, and get a sense of who they are. This then leading to wanting more of them and hoping for more books.I can hope that the world will be graced with books for the other couples. I will take a book about Kane’s older brother Max (I mean firefighters need love too). Either way if we get lucky and get another book, we get more Scarlett and Kane, so win win.
I do have a couple warnings when it comes to reading this book though.
1. DO NOT, i repeat, DO NOT read while in public. You will burst out laughing, and who wants to draw attention to themselves when reading with people all around.
2. DON”T even think about reading while your eating. You are risking your life if you are eating while reading this one. There really needs to be a warning label saying CHOKING HAZARD IF EATING WHILE READING, FROM LAUGHING TO MUCH. And lets face it no one looks cute when their choking.
Congrats S.K. Rose on this funny as hell ROMCOM, and I can’t wait to get my hands on more of your work. And I don’t care if its gut wrenching angst filled or laugh till you cry funny.
I absolutely love SK Rose, and while I love her, I didn’t expect to love Tactical Heart, simply because her other books were dark and so emotional, and a gaming book didn’t really scream for me to read it. BUT SHE CRUSHED IT. I freaking loved it. It’s a romantic comedy, but I’m not gonna lie, I cried a couple times. Scarlett and Kane have an amazing story, and I’m so glad I read it. 10/10 will read again.
Tactical Heart
By S.K. Rose
I few notes for the book. First off the begining started off with a bang. Few hiccups in the middle and the end was fantastic. Hot and heavy sex scenes. Stereotypes be damned with this book. I loved the sister banter and really all the little banters with her friends and with Kane. I can relate to her diving into an alternate world when feeling down we all do that in some form. Mine happens to be reading. I think what’s really great about this book is that S.K. included definitions for gamer lingo. Alot of books either explain it out as part of the story, which I hate. I feel like when this happens it’s just filler for the story. Or they don’t explain it at all so your left either clueless or you look it up your self. Which makes me wants to stop ready the book.
This goes back to the stereotyping. Have to place something on this sexist B.S. lol I know its part of the story but I hate a man who believes a girl can’t do what they can do. It’s that song “I can do anything better then you!” Bitches we need to believe in this shit. It’s real! We can sustain so much more then any man ever could. Just speaking the truth. I love books about strong female characters believing in womans rights.
‘Gamesplaining’ where I have I heard this from?
Overall the story line was amazing and once again the amazing Octoqueen has blown it out of the water.
I loved this book from the beginning to the end! You would never guess this is S.K Rose first romcom. I fell in love with all the characters and laughed so much with them all! Scarlett and Kane with have you wanting to be a gamer if your not already!! Scarlett is a badass gamer with a extreme sweet tooth. And I also got a new book boyfriend Wren, just making it officially you know This is a must read!!!
I absolutely loved this romantic comedy!! The nerdy subject matter called to my own inner geek, even though I am not a gamer. At first it seemed completely predictable and cliches but S.K. Rose did a wonderful job of keeping my attention. It is full of witty humor and a couple of adorable nerd you are sure to fall in love with! S.K. Rose
5 Stars
Review by Alysia
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
S.K. Rose has done it again! Tactical Heart was a wonderful light-hearted read. It’s different than her past books in the fact that her previous stories were dark and twisted. This one was the complete opposite.
Scarlett is a game nerd. She eats, lives and breathes gaming. Which makes it hard to date because most guys don’t understand her obsession with games.
Kane is happy doing his own thing and focusing on gaming. When his roommate bribes him to go on a blind date with his girlfriend’s sister, Kane expects it to be a horrendous date. Little did he know then that it would be the best night of his life. When morning comes, everything hits the fan when Scarlett accidentally finds his gamer tag, which is the same has her game nemesis. They battle the feelings they have with each other while also battling to win an internship as the best technology company in the nation.
I loved how S.K. Rose used game lingo throughout the book but shared a glossary at the end so people like me who aren’t gamers can easily understand the lingo! I loved how funny each character was. I also loved how Nessa would throw in Spanish words to get her point across. It made me love her more!
The relationship Scarlett has with her mom is so relatable. Scarlett always felt that she was different from her mom and that she was constantly a disappointment. When in fact they just hadn’t found common ground and were unable to have a conversation without arguing.
Kane’s relationship with his family was the complete opposite in the fact that they were supportive of all of Kane’s dreams. His parents knew how to relate to all of their children and show each child love in the way the child needed. I loved both sides!!!
It’s hard for me sit down for long periods of time and just read, but this book sucked me in and I did nothing except read all day.
Wonderful job S.K. Rose!! I can’t wait for the next one.
One of my fave romcoms! Omg. The LOL moments that has people looking at me like I was crazy. The emotional parts that broke my heart. Her characters are so real. She has created a story unlike any other. It was very vivid and clear and reflected how gaming might actually be today. It was so interesting and refreshing to read a book like this.
These characters will steal your heart and become a part of your life. Scarlett’s character is so fanny. The things that happen and her friendships make you all in love with the whole story. A must read!!
I swear, S.K. Rose never ceases to amaze me.
She always manages to exceed any and all expectations, and Tactical Heart was no different!
I don’t read romcom’s too often, mostly when I am feeling down and need a pick me up, is when I decide to go the RomCom route. I just have to say, I am so glad that I took my chance and read it!
I was more than happily surprised.
I spent the majority of the book laughing at Scarlett’s antics, and loved the hilarious interactions between her and Kane. I honestly wish that I could have Scarlett as a best friend.
So, if you happen to be looking for a great story, that brings it all, with a large dollop of comedic perfection, then I HIGHLY recommend Tactical Heart! Make sure to grab your copy ASAP, and I promise that you will not be disappointed!
Review by Alysia
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
S.K. Rose has done it again! Tactical Heart was a wonderful light-hearted read. It’s different than her past books in the fact that her previous stories were dark and twisted. This one was the complete opposite.
Scarlett is a game nerd. She eats, lives and breathes gaming. Which makes it hard to date because most guys don’t understand her obsession with games.
Kane is happy doing his own thing and focusing on gaming. When his roommate bribes him to go on a blind date with his girlfriend’s sister, Kane expects it to be a horrendous date. Little did he know then that it would be the best night of his life. When morning comes, everything hits the fan when Scarlett accidentally finds his gamer tag, which is the same has her game nemesis. They battle the feelings they have with each other while also battling to win an internship as the best technology company in the nation.
I loved how S.K. Rose used game lingo throughout the book but shared a glossary at the end so people like me who aren’t gamers can easily understand the lingo! I loved how funny each character was. I also loved how Nessa would throw in Spanish words to get her point across. It made me love her more!
The relationship Scarlett has with her mom is so relatable. Scarlett always felt that she was different from her mom and that she was constantly a disappointment. When in fact they just hadn’t found common ground and were unable to have a conversation without arguing.
Kane’s relationship with his family was the complete opposite in the fact that they were supportive of all of Kane’s dreams. His parents knew how to relate to all of their children and show each child love in the way the child needed. I loved both sides!!!
It’s hard for me sit down for long periods of time and just read, but this book sucked me in and I did nothing except read all day.
Wonderful job S.K. Rose!! I can’t wait for the next one.
Review by Alysia
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
S.K. Rose has done it again! Tactical Heart was a wonderful light-hearted read. It’s different than her past books in the fact that her previous stories were dark and twisted. This one was the complete opposite.
Scarlett is a game nerd. She eats, lives and breathes gaming. Which makes it hard to date because most guys don’t understand her obsession with games.
Kane is happy doing his own thing and focusing on gaming. When his roommate bribes him to go on a blind date with his girlfriend’s sister, Kane expects it to be a horrendous date. Little did he know then that it would be the best night of his life. When morning comes, everything hits the fan when Scarlett accidentally finds his gamer tag, which is the same has her game nemesis. They battle the feelings they have with each other while also battling to win an internship as the best technology company in the nation.
I loved how S.K. Rose used game lingo throughout the book but shared a glossary at the end so people like me who aren’t gamers can easily understand the lingo! I loved how funny each character was. I also loved how Nessa would throw in Spanish words to get her point across. It made me love her more!
The relationship Scarlett has with her mom is so relatable. Scarlett always felt that she was different from her mom and that she was constantly a disappointment. When in fact they just hadn’t found common ground and were unable to have a conversation without arguing.
Kane’s relationship with his family was the complete opposite in the fact that they were supportive of all of Kane’s dreams. His parents knew how to relate to all of their children and show each child love in the way the child needed. I loved both sides!!!
It’s hard for me sit down for long periods of time and just read, but this book sucked me in and I did nothing except read all day.
Wonderful job S.K. Rose!! I can’t wait for the next one.
When quirky, nerdy, gamer Scarlett meets Kane, the sparks fly. Allll night long, then she finds out who he really is and sparks of another category start flying. You see, Kane’s Scarlett’s mortal enemy in their favorite game, Tactical Hearts. Years ago he hurt her and hurt her bad, causing her to lose her original account and character, and she’s made him pay ever since. Too bad Kane’s sexy as h*ll, smart, funny, and a gamer like her. Because of what he did though, they’re mortal enemies til the end.
Kane knew he did wrong all those years ago. A selfish teen who used Scarlett then destroyed her when he had the chance. But that was years ago, why can’t she just drop it already. And why oh why does she have to be the player that kills him every single chance she gets? Hasn’t he paid enough in the intervening years?
Ms. Rose’s writing is snarky, funny, and engaging. I loved the characters, the story and the world building. I was hooked from the first page and devoured the story. I’m no gamer, but both my husband and daughter are, so I knew some of the lingo. What I didn’t know, I asked. I need more of this story. I need it to be a series and I need Nessa and Wren’s story pretty please.
**I was given an ARC of this story and this is my honest and voluntary review
I have to say the fangirl in me had so much fun reading this story. The geeky banter was flawless and flowed naturally. The characters were well developed and their chemistry was volcanic. Every time their eyes locked my heart beat quickened as I was transported into the pages, losing myself to the flame their passion created. There was never a dull moment and I just couldn’t put the book down. The angst felt by these two stubborn, competitive, and sassy individuals was everything. The feels had me all over the place. You don’t have to be a nerd to enjoy this story. The female empowerment alone deserves a standing ovation. If you’re in the mood to fall in love and have plenty of laughs along the way this is worth the read.
I loved this book!! It’s one of the best I’ve ever read!! I loved Scarlett and Kane and all of the supporting characters!! Stop reading reviews and go get this book!! You’ll be glad you did!! Kane’s a great addition to my harem!
Authors first romantic comedy and she did not disappoint!
This book hits close to my heart being a making nerd who no one understood in school but a handful of people I understood the characters and what they was feeling. Scar and Kane’s story is humorous, full of feisty lol moments and some hot steamy scenes! I read it in one sitting I just could not but this down! Everything that was designed to tear these two apart only brought them closer in the end. Amazing job Sk you knocked the romantic comedy genre outta the park!! Can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next! I recommend this book! Y’all don’t wanna miss this one!!
S.K.Rose is all about extreme emotions. If her last release made me cry and curse and feel all kind of angsty heartbreaking emotions, her next release Tactical Heart was exactly opposite end of spectrum. It witty, hilarious and smart. It was perfect with sarcasm and sass. It has some absolutely lovable and downright awesome characters. And the sweet, swoonworthy and heartwarming love filled my heart to the brim.
Scarlett is my new idol. This nerdy ,crazy and cool as hell girl is something else. I want to be her best friend as she is too awesome with her sassy attitude, sharp witty tongue and strength of an amazing woman. And Kane is THE GUY. You know that guy who will make you melt, make your panties a lost cause and send butterflies in your stomach with his awkward confidence and charm. Well he can be a complete idiot and jerk sometimes but Scarlett showed him his place. The gaming world with all it’s quirky people is like a third character in this book. And so is the friends and families. Honestly I will not forget a single charcter in this story. The sexy, flirty and fiercely latina best friend of Scarlett. The loud and almost obnoxious family of Kane. No one.
Let’s talk about the storyline. This is a completely unique and refreshing story set in the gaming world. Which is competitive, extreme and most importantly, non judgemental and embraces people like Scarlett and Kane. A safe place. An escape. And Scarlett and Kane got familiar in this world, became enemies and then fall in love. But the road was topsy turvy with challenges, misunderstandings and heartbreaks. And the writing of S.K.Rose has inserted so much fun and humor in this story along to true emotions. Both the lead characters are a bit emotionally stunted, have trust issues and too good to make too bad decisions on impulse. They are stubborn but they crave each other because they fit like two puzzle pieces. It was really the complete package.
S.K.Rose exceeded my expectations in Tactical Heart. My heart was laughing, praying and swooning so hard. Emotions flow through her words effortlessly and smoothly. An unexpected, irresistible and brilliant love story.
Received ARC for honest review.
I LOVED this book!!!! I’m so not a gamer, so thanks for the dictionary of gamer terminology, but this book had me laughing out loud and cheering on the #realgamer. I love Scarlett. She is a total bada$$ is what has been considered the “boys” club. Kane is the reason I tell my daughters to never overlook the nerds at school. This is a definite must read! You won’t want to put it down!