This was my first book by Author Danielle Allen, I really enjoyed the book and its writing but I did feel like most of the conflict itself was avoidable. Overall it was a great book and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Danielle Allen, the woman that you are!

While I haven't read the first in this series (even though I promptly got it from my library!), I absolutely adored Plus Size Player - where our FMC is our player, trying to figure out what type of love is worth it to give up her roster and emotionally disconnected ways. I love a workplace romance - particularly a forbidden one - and this one was written to perfection. The tension was real - and was backed up by all the chemistry between our two characters. I truly believe these are some of the best steamy scenes I have ever read - Danielle Allen is a queen.

As someone in a bigger body, I loved how the storyline wasn't focused on her size and any sort of shame associated with it, or that the love story didn't have an air of fetishization. Instead, she was empowered by her size and her style - and used that to find her niche and brand.

I listened to the audiobook and Wesleigh Siobhan was the perfect narrator; her male voice was great - not at all distracting or cartoonish - and the steamy scenes had the perfect level of tension and sensuality - without feeling garish or cheesy.

I just loved this book so, so much - and am so excited to go back and read the first in the series.

I'm so glad I haven't read Danielle Allen's first book so I have something to go back. After reading Plus Size Player I NEED more of her writing ASAP!

I loved sassy plus size model Nina Ford. She's sexy and not about to let anyone put her down for her size. Russ is the perfect companion for her although there were times that his possessiveness got on my nerves. I did feel that the ending wrapped up a little bit too quickly especially for the potential conflict that was brewing. I look forward to seeing more of Nina and Russ in the next story as side characters. If you couldn't tell Plus Size Player in the second novel in the Curve trilogy by Allen. It can easily be read as a stand alone, as I did. I'm looking forward to going back to Curvy Girl Summer and reading Aaliyah's story. I can't wait for the trilogy to finish out in 2026.

Thank you to Brambel (via Tor) and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for review consideration.

Russell Long is the beginning and the end. The way he loves Nina? OMG!! From showing up for her emotionally, protecting her and paying attention to her wants and needs, he’s the kind of book boyfriend that sets the bar high. This story gave heartfelt moments, heat and tension, and the kind of memorable moments that stay with you forever.

I was already a fan of Curvy Girl Summer, but Plus Size Player has officially taken the top spot as my favorite in the series. And the spice was top tier.

The audiobook brought this story to life in the best way possible. Weisleigh Shoban’s narration was absolutely phenomenal. Her talent is out of this world and she killed it. She gave this book the voice it deserved.

Easily a 6-star read for me.

I received and Advanced Reader Copy and am voluntarily reviewing it. This audio was just as good as the first book in this series. Ms. Allen this series is *chef's kiss*. Wesleigh Siobhan is doing her thing with this series. She does it all flawlessly. Now, this book is a lot more steam than the first book in this series. Nina Ford does not play about her roster. That point guard, though, continues to keep showing up and showing out. He is definitely becoming the star player. Is Nina ready to put all her eggs in one basket? I fell in love with Russell Long, the fun one. I still don't understand how Wesleigh does both voices. The back and forth is what makes this audio shine. There is a lot more going on than Nina being a player. It is best that you discover it on your own. All I can say is do yourself a favor and listen to this spicy novel. Ms. Allen, you did that. I knew Nina's book would be hot. You gave reader scorching right off the back. I loved every second of it. I can't wait for Jasmine's book.

I loved Nina in Curvy Girl Summer, so I was super excited for her story. She’s giving big Angie from Harlem energy: bold, confident, hilarious, and absolutely unbothered by anyone’s fatphobic rhetoric.

Seriously, she said what needed to be said. The Narrator Wesleigh Siobhan brought Nina to life, with so much personality and heart. Even the male voice was smooth and so well done. It had me blushing more than once, not gonna lie.

And can we talk about the chemistry between Nina and Rus? Whew. So Electric. Funny, sweet, steamy—they had it all. And that Megan Thee Stallion verse moment? DEAD. I was screaming!

This story gave me laughs, swoons, and plus size empowerment. Nina’s voice matters, and Danielle Allen made sure it was heard loud and proud.

Thank you to NetGalley and Mcmillian Audio for the advanced listening copy of Plus Size Player. This story follows Nina, a vivacious and confident woman. She’s finding success in her career as a model and content creator, while navigating the dating scene and discovering what she wants from love. Russ is top of her roster and I can only assume secures the number one spot.

For me, this book was a little too long. Halfway in and I was not grasped by the simmering connection between Nina and Russ. There were plenty of hot spice scenes though! Additionally, there were three too many instances of Nina being body shamed by strangers, both men and women in this story and it was off putting.

5 very enthusiastic stars for Plus Size Player!!! I love this world & friend group Danielle Allen has created! Nina's personality was so vibrant and I loved reading from the POV of a character who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go out and get it. Also fun to get more of a gender swap in the role of the player here, as we love women in male fields etc.

Danielle Allen's voice is fresh and fun and better than ever, and this spicy romcom is the perfect summer read. This audiobook was so slay!!!

OMG! I loved Plus Size Player just as much as Curvy Girl Summer! Nina and Russ? Whew, the chemistry was off the charts. I was fully invested in their story, rooting for them every step of the way. And don’t even get me started on the trio of Nina, Aaliyah (that’s my girl!), and Jaz. ICONIC. They had me cackling!!! The group chat energy was so real.

Danielle Allen really knows how to craft a romance that hits all the marks: swoon-worthy moments, emotional depth, the humor, and the spice 🔥. She never misses!

Now let’s talk about the queen herself, Wesleigh Siobhan. Is there anything she can’t narrate? She brings so much life and personality to each character (even the men), and her delivery is always so smooth and expressive. You never lose track of who’s talking or what’s going on, which is a major audiobook win.

The audiobook production was clean, crisp, and just *chef’s kiss*. But I wouldn’t expect anything less from Macmillan Audio.

In the helicopter!?!? In the changing room!?!? These two are so horny for each other!!!

Nina and Russ are filthy in the best way possible!!! These two have more sexual tension than anything I've read in a long time. Nina isn't looking for capital C committment; there's not a man out there that can be everything she needs in a relationship, so she's got her roster. The smart one. The funny one. The romantic one. And Russ, the fun one. You can see how their relationship begins to shift as Russ' dates become more and more romantic. Her friends tease her because he's the first to move past his nickname of the fun one.

Of course, just when these two lean into their feelings for each other, bad news strikes. Nina's new modeling gig that she's dreamt of for awhile has a nonfraternization policy, and lo and behold, Russ is her new boss. I think I actually cackled when it was finally revealed, because I knew way before them. Danielle Allen is such a fun writer. Her characters banter and relationships of all types shine. I always spend so much time laughing while reading. Don't get me wrong, I was fuming for a lot of this book because of the blatant fatphobia that Nina experienced from so many people. Nina is a badass bitch though and constantly called out everyone who had something to say. She knows she's hot, and she isn't going to take fatphobic insults from anyone.

This book is outrageously hot and full of toe curling moments ;) Wesleigh Siobhan made this audiobook a real treat!

5 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️ | 5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Black Love
- Friends to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- He Falls First
- Flirty Banter
- Plus Size Rep.
- Body Positivity
- She's the Player
- Secret/Forbidden Relationship

I loved Curvy Girl Summer and was beyond excited for Plus Size Player! This is the perfect summer read, and I was locked in from start to finish. This story has amazing characters, sizzling spice, and is an overall good time. The vibes? Immaculate. Nina is THAT GIRL! She is confident, smart, fierce, and goes for what she wants in life. What I loved most is that Nina didn't subscribe to anyone's thoughts or opinions about her. She didn't allow anyone to dull her shine. Her energy is contagious, and I want to be her friend.

Russ, oh Russ. The man that you are! Nina was living her best life and enjoyed dating men who all brought something different to the table. Russ though? He had it all and gave Nina everything she needed. Russ SHOWED UP, and I loved every second of it. The spice? IT WAS SPICIN'! The mouth on this man? Whew! These two had me fanning myself.

Nina and Russ were perfect for each other. Their natural connection, chemistry, banter, and communication made them feel so real. I was completely invested in their relationship and couldn't help but root for their happy ending. There is nothing better than reading about a Black woman being loved RIGHT. The unique plot, character development, humor, friendship dynamics, amazing plus-size representation, and the well-planned and meaningful dates...I loved it all. Plus Size Player is a fun and relatable story that inspires us to ignore the noise and never settle. I honestly cannot recommend this book enough. I am SO ready for book three!

Narration:
Wesleigh Siobhan nailed this solo-narration performance. There are not many female narrators with male voices that make me forget it's actually a woman. Wesleigh is one of them, which speaks to her incredible talent. Her narration really brought all the characters to life and took this story to another level. Wesleigh has quickly become one of my absolute favorites. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book and highly recommend enjoying this story as an immersive reading experience.

Happy Pub Day 🥳

I loved this downnnn🌶️🥵

Second installment after Curvy Girl summer following Nina a plus sized model & influencer. Nina is dating multiple men as she shouldddd. A whole roster boo. She eventually falls for the fun guy Russell. When I tell you these ppl couldn’t get enough of each other I was jealous LMAO.

The plot twist Was crazy didn’t even see that coming & they STRESSED me out. The audio was chefs kiss Wesleigh Siobhan always eats down.

Highly recommend this one.

Thank you Netgalley & Macmillan Audio for the ALC

4 stars.

Danielle Allen's books are SO addictive!! Her stories are filled with banter, humor, spice, inclusion, rapid-fire dialogue, fun settings, and empowerment. "Plus Size Player" is no different. WHAT A BOOK! I loved every minute of this one. It's fun, steamy, hilarious, entertaining, messy, and addicting to listen to, anchored by an incredible voiceover narration from the incomparable Wesleigh Siobhan. I absolutely love her as a narrator. She does the female and male parts so well, each with a distinct flair. We don't often see many books featuring a female "player" type of character, so it was fun to read something slightly different. The characters here are great. Nina is brazen and bold, thick, attractive, and knows it. Her confidence is stunning. She is seeing several different guys for different reasons (the funny one, the exciting one, etc). Russ is dreamy. He goes all out to impress Nina because he is so smitten with her. The chemistry between them is electric, sizzling, and iconic. I totally bought into their relationship and their affections towards one another. They have an easy-going relationship at first, but it quickly evolves into real, big-time feelings. Ugh, I loved them together. They go through some difficult decisions and choices throughout the course of their relationship, and I think Danielle Allen handles the situation well, where other authors may not have. All in all, I loved this book, and it makes an even better listen! Fantastic plus-size representation going on here. Such good stuff.

Thank you to Danielle Allen, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

One thing Danielle Allen knows how to do is keep the reader engaged. This book was a feel-good read with the perfect amount of romance, comedy and spice. Nina Ford isn’t looking for love. The thought of a traditional relationship doesn’t appeal to her. Instead, she prefers to keep a few men in her life that fulfill her needs. The Smart One. The Fun One. The Funny One. The Romantic One. All is well with her dating life until she, and everyone else around her, realizes that she likes The Fun One. Russell Long aka The Fun One, keeps Nina on her toes with adventure. There is an undeniable chemistry between the two. Everything looks good until they realize there is a hurdle in their way.

I loved the social media element of the story because it was so relevant to today. Nina handled the fatphobia scenes with the confidence I hope every plus size woman possess. The characters were well developed, and I loved that it was a mature romance. Nina was no-nonsense on her boundaries and while it got in the way at times, I loved how her and Russell handled things. The meeting scene in the office had to be one of my favorites. Big Russ stood on business when it came to Nina, unapologetically.

I’m loving this series so far and can’t wait to see what the next book brings.

I was really interested in the premise of this, but unfortunately the execution fell a bit flat. The story felt like it was more plot than anything else and the writing was very repetitive. The narrator was great!

Work place romance
Plus size model
Forced proximity
Black romance

Audio review
Narrated by Wesleigh Siobhan

Main characters
Russ
Nina

Nina is a plus sized model and internet influencer. She is confident and definitely career oriented. She is also the player in the scenario. She dates more than one guy and is up front with them. They each serve a different need. The romantic one, the smart one, the funny one and the fun one. She goes to nice dinners, comedy shows and lectures. Out the four men, only one can make her drop her plans - the fun one.
Russ happens to to be the fun one in her rotation. He takes her of adventures and knows who to treat her well. He listens and understands her. He is all the guys wrapped in one. He had her back and never let anytime disrespect her! I love that about him.
The chemistry between Russ and Nina is off the charts.
The story is fun, and sexy with a bit of angst. The banter between the two characters is fire. The characters are wonderful and totally relatable. I really liked Nina’s character with her confidence and how she stood up for herself. She knew what she wanted and went after it.

Once again the narrator did a fantastic job with this story. Easy to follow and nailing the personalities. The lines were delivered on point.

PLUS SIZE PLAYER by Danielle Allen was such an incredible read like the first book in the series.

I absolutely adore Danielle’s storytelling and writing. Her character always feels so real and authentic. You could really see yourself in the female characters as their story unfolding.

I admired Nina so much throughout her journey. The way that see carried herself, her ambition and passion for her career; as well as not allowing anyone around her make her feel less than or undesirable really made me connect deeply with her. Inspired me to be like her when it came to her self-confidence.

Her love life was definitely entertaining with her roster of men individually used to satisfy her various needs. However, you couldn’t deny the deep connection and chemistry between her and Russ. Their banter was everything and more and the pacing of their relationship was beautiful. I loved how down bad they were for each other.

The sisterhood between Nina and her two friend was something special, I loved their bond and the way that they support each other through everything as well as keep each other accountable.

Overall, this book was amazing. I’m excited for the third book to this series I just know it’s going to break me emotionally.

Prepare for the ultimate summer romance when you read Plus Size Player. Fashion, love, careers, friendships, and lots of spice. I was not expecting this book to be as spicy. The audiobook is chef's kiss. This is a series that gets better with each book, and I wish I could read it again for the first time.

I was approved for an ALC of the second book in the Curve Book series Plus Size Player which was narrated by Wesleigh Siobhan. She is one of my favorite narrators because she always brings the characters to life. In this book it follows the confident Nina Ford who is a plus sized model in her career & dating life. Nina juggles a few men while dating because she’s all about having fun & not looking for love. That’s until one of her men in rotation gives her pause on what would happen if they pursued more. Russell is all about his business & Nina, and she quickly takes notice. Nina suddenly finds her head in the clouds but things come screeching to a halt when business gets in the way. I enjoyed this book especially after reading the prior book in this series & seeing how this plus sized beautiful friend circle exude their confidence & navigating their love lives. I only knocked a star off bc the FMC did drive me a bit crazy regarding one situation & I wish there was more to the ending. Other than that I loved the style of writing from this author & the narrator was phenomenal. I appreciate the advanced audio book version to the this book for my honest opinions.

HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY!!!!!!!!!!! (6/10/25)

I had SUCH high expectations going into this book because Curvy Girl Summer is one of my favorite books of all time and I wasn't sure how a couple could even come close to comparing to Ahmad and Aaliyah, but I was absolutely BLOWN AWAY by this book!

The characters were so much fun. Everything seemed so real and I'm just absolutely obsessed. Ms. Danielle Allen, you've done it again. Thank you SO much for the advanced copy and I absolutely can't WAIT for everyone to get their hands on this now that it is OUT!!!!

Love love love love love.