The Matchmaker’s Playbook (Wingmen Inc. #1) – Rachel Van Dyken

Genre: New Adult
Publisher: Skyscape

Wingman rule number one: don’t fall for a client.

After a career-ending accident, former NFL recruit Ian Hunter is back on campus—and he’s ready to get his new game on. As one of the masterminds behind Wingmen, Inc., a successful and secretive word-of-mouth dating service, he’s putting his extensive skills with women to work for the lovelorn. But when Blake Olson requests the services of Wingmen, Inc., Ian may have landed his most hopeless client yet.

From her frumpy athletic gear to her unfortunate choice of footwear, Blake is going to need a miracle if she wants to land her crush. At least with a professional matchmaker by her side she has a fighting chance. Ian knows that his advice and a makeover can turn Blake into another successful match. But as Blake begins the transformation from hot mess to smokin’ hot, Ian realizes he’s in danger of breaking his cardinal rule.…

I’m not usually a fan of all male perspective romance novels, but The Matchmaker’s Playbook is an entertaining read!

What makes The Matchmaker’s Playbook stand out from others in the genre is it’s unique plot. Ian and his best friend run a business at their university where they teach women how to land their dream guy. These lessons involve basic appearance updating, confidence boosting, and a few simple rules to drive their love interest mad with desire. With a plot like this, I expected the main character to be an insufferable cocky asshole, but, fortunately, he wasn’t. Ian’s confidence balanced the line of cocky asshole without dipping too far into the irredeemable jerk territory.

The chemistry between the main characters, Ian and Blake, sizzles off the pages. Their banter is fun, sexy, and witty. Unfortunately, during these conversations Blake pales in comparison to Ian. He gets the better quips and responses while Blake is used as more of a sounding board to set Ian up with those perfect responses. Because of this, Ian comes off as a larger than life character who knows how to smooth talk anyone. Thus, making Blake look socially inept.

I don’t know why authors insist on sticking to the trope of the sexually inexperienced female falling for the overly experienced male. It’s played out, annoying, and communicates a very damaging message.

Overall, The Matchmaker’s Playbook is a fun read that doesn’t offer anything substantial, but, at least, offers a unique plot with witty dialogue.

I decided to read this because of the casting news for the movie! Check out the streaming service Passion Flix for more romance movies!