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Playing #1
Playing Passion's Game
In most games, you play to win. In matters of the heart, you play for keeps.
Trent Williams’s entire world revolves around her love of gaming. She has little time for romantic distractions and prefers instead to be with her closest friends who, like her, live for the thrill that comes from a competition well played. Happy in her job, seemingly content with her life, Trent still finds herself haunted by the past that threatens to keep her alone forever. The self-imposed solitude she places on her heart only leaves her all too aware of just how lonely she is.
All work and no play in her executive job forces Juliet Sullivan to search for a different direction in life. Disillusioned by it all, Juliet is desperate to seek out new horizons. When Trent unwittingly comes to the rescue of her younger sister, Juliet immediately finds herself drawn to Trent’s silent strength and undeniable charm. Now the new direction Juliet so desperately desires seems intent on leading her straight into Trent’s arms.
Trent Williams’s entire world revolves around her love of gaming. She has little time for romantic distractions and prefers instead to be with her closest friends who, like her, live for the thrill that comes from a competition well played. Happy in her job, seemingly content with her life, Trent still finds herself haunted by the past that threatens to keep her alone forever. The self-imposed solitude she places on her heart only leaves her all too aware of just how lonely she is.
All work and no play in her executive job forces Juliet Sullivan to search for a different direction in life. Disillusioned by it all, Juliet is desperate to seek out new horizons. When Trent unwittingly comes to the rescue of her younger sister, Juliet immediately finds herself drawn to Trent’s silent strength and undeniable charm. Now the new direction Juliet so desperately desires seems intent on leading her straight into Trent’s arms.
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2011
12 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Lesley Davis
21 books82 followersLesley Davis lives in the West Midlands of England. She is a die-hard sci-fi/fantasy fan in all its forms and an extremely passionate gamer.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 25, 2019
For my Fallback Friday pick I decided to go with book one of the Playing series. I usually go farther back for my Fallback pics, this is only eight years old, but with book three in this series coming out shortly, I wanted to catch up. Some people have mentioned that this series doesn’t have to be read in order, that the books stand on their own enough, but with this book sitting in my library I figured if I don’t read it now, when will I? I’m happy to say that was the right choice since this book was much more enjoyable than I expected. I actually really liked this one.
This is a really sweet butch/femme romance. This book has almost no angst at all. While I do enjoy some good angst, it is really nice just to read a happy and sweet romance once in a while. Sometime I just want a feel good HEA from start to finish and this book delivered that. This actually had a similar feel to Meghan O’Brien’s book Infinite Loop. If you enjoyed that book, chances are high you would like this one too.
With this book being 8 years old, it does feel its age a bit. With one of the mains working in the gaming industry, everyone is talking about the original XBOX and Nintendo Wii as being the big “it” gaming systems. Obviously, that isn’t the case now since gaming seems to change almost as fast as a new iphone come out. The other main actually works in banking, so again there was all this talk about the economy being bad with banks going under. So yes, the book feels it age, but it honestly did not change my enjoyment for one second.
I used to be into gaming. I still have a Wii and XBOX somewhere, I even had a Sega and an original Nintendo back in the day, but I’m not really into it now. Reading takes up all my spare time. So while this book does have gaming aspects in it, I don’t think you have to be a gamer to enjoy this. The heart of this book is a really enjoyable romance. I loved the relationship between the two mains and was impressed by the amount of chemistry they had. I even really liked the sex scenes that were better than I expected. This was just a real feel good romance.
If you are looking for a sweet romance that doesn’t have a ton of miscommunication and break-ups at every turn, this book is a good choice. It does show its age a bit but it was a really enjoyable Fallback pick. I’m even more excited to now read book 2 and 3.
This is a really sweet butch/femme romance. This book has almost no angst at all. While I do enjoy some good angst, it is really nice just to read a happy and sweet romance once in a while. Sometime I just want a feel good HEA from start to finish and this book delivered that. This actually had a similar feel to Meghan O’Brien’s book Infinite Loop. If you enjoyed that book, chances are high you would like this one too.
With this book being 8 years old, it does feel its age a bit. With one of the mains working in the gaming industry, everyone is talking about the original XBOX and Nintendo Wii as being the big “it” gaming systems. Obviously, that isn’t the case now since gaming seems to change almost as fast as a new iphone come out. The other main actually works in banking, so again there was all this talk about the economy being bad with banks going under. So yes, the book feels it age, but it honestly did not change my enjoyment for one second.
I used to be into gaming. I still have a Wii and XBOX somewhere, I even had a Sega and an original Nintendo back in the day, but I’m not really into it now. Reading takes up all my spare time. So while this book does have gaming aspects in it, I don’t think you have to be a gamer to enjoy this. The heart of this book is a really enjoyable romance. I loved the relationship between the two mains and was impressed by the amount of chemistry they had. I even really liked the sex scenes that were better than I expected. This was just a real feel good romance.
If you are looking for a sweet romance that doesn’t have a ton of miscommunication and break-ups at every turn, this book is a good choice. It does show its age a bit but it was a really enjoyable Fallback pick. I’m even more excited to now read book 2 and 3.
June 8, 2019
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4 Stars
This is a pleasant, well written romance between two opposites– butch/femme women. The story is told from two points of view-
First there is 32 yr old Trent – a 6 ft tall butch who was described by Juliet’s BFF, Monica as “She’s handsome in a leaner, meaner incarnation of Mariska Hargitay kind of way … and damn sexy as hell for a woman” She is also very caring, considerate and generous. Which is how she met 10yr old Kayleigh. Trent came to Kayleigh's rescue when she was being harassed by a group of young boys. Trent’s life is gaming (as in X-Box, Wii, and Nintendo). She works in a GameStop type store with her BFF, Elton. Elton and her put together a professional gaming team that competes together online and at tournaments. Trent had an unhappy childhood that she still struggles to cope with and to forget.
Then there is Kayleigh’s 27 yr old sister, Juliet who is a tall voluptuous blond, pencil skirted, successful bank executive. Kayleigh’s parents are around, but it is Juliet who is also a parent figure to her much younger sister. Juliet is questioning if she wants to continue in banking. She is working on a project presentation that if it goes well, she is practically guaranteed a transfer and promotion to the main office in Chicago.
I really enjoyed this story of Trent and Juliet. Their friends are nicely written with distinctive personalities. There is no angst or conflict to speak of. Oh, there is a little bit, but it is quickly resolved by communication. Huh. What a concept. There is one problem I had – it is *not* a slow burn romance. It is a fast moving fire. In general, I prefer slow burn romances. You may also notice some idiosyncrasies due to time sensitive subjects and when it was written (published in 2011). The banking crisis was about 2008, the Resident Evil Red Xbox came out in 2009, people still used flip phones(!) and I assume the games, tournaments and game consoles have also evolved since then. I’m not a gamer, though I did own a Wii, which I only bought for when my nieces and nephews visited.
If you want to read a fun and pleasant romance with likable characters, check this one out. (In Tara’s review she mentions they are the subject of a story in the anthology, Amor and More: Love Everafter. I have this book, now I can go back and read it.
This is a pleasant, well written romance between two opposites– butch/femme women. The story is told from two points of view-
First there is 32 yr old Trent – a 6 ft tall butch who was described by Juliet’s BFF, Monica as “She’s handsome in a leaner, meaner incarnation of Mariska Hargitay kind of way … and damn sexy as hell for a woman” She is also very caring, considerate and generous. Which is how she met 10yr old Kayleigh. Trent came to Kayleigh's rescue when she was being harassed by a group of young boys. Trent’s life is gaming (as in X-Box, Wii, and Nintendo). She works in a GameStop type store with her BFF, Elton. Elton and her put together a professional gaming team that competes together online and at tournaments. Trent had an unhappy childhood that she still struggles to cope with and to forget.
Then there is Kayleigh’s 27 yr old sister, Juliet who is a tall voluptuous blond, pencil skirted, successful bank executive. Kayleigh’s parents are around, but it is Juliet who is also a parent figure to her much younger sister. Juliet is questioning if she wants to continue in banking. She is working on a project presentation that if it goes well, she is practically guaranteed a transfer and promotion to the main office in Chicago.
I really enjoyed this story of Trent and Juliet. Their friends are nicely written with distinctive personalities. There is no angst or conflict to speak of. Oh, there is a little bit, but it is quickly resolved by communication. Huh. What a concept. There is one problem I had – it is *not* a slow burn romance. It is a fast moving fire. In general, I prefer slow burn romances. You may also notice some idiosyncrasies due to time sensitive subjects and when it was written (published in 2011). The banking crisis was about 2008, the Resident Evil Red Xbox came out in 2009, people still used flip phones(!) and I assume the games, tournaments and game consoles have also evolved since then. I’m not a gamer, though I did own a Wii, which I only bought for when my nieces and nephews visited.
If you want to read a fun and pleasant romance with likable characters, check this one out. (In Tara’s review she mentions they are the subject of a story in the anthology, Amor and More: Love Everafter. I have this book, now I can go back and read it.
February 7, 2017
I really need a better shelf than ‘farmer-gardener’, pfft. Right sorry.
Book involves a super tall woman who looks like a force of nature, super powerful, the ultimate of ultimate butches who . . . doesn’t really see herself that way and who has trouble with the concept of relationships based entirely on her kid-years. She’s a gamer – a professional game playing person who plays in tournaments, on a team, sponsored by her employer – a gaming store in a mall (most of her time is spent working there; or gaming back at her place; occasionally tournaments). This ultra-butch woman is Trent Williams. Gentle-giant type. Geeky. Small breasts (what, it came up in the book). Somewhere in her 30s.
Book also involves Juliet Sullivan – on the fast track at her bank but . . . the economy is crap, and companies are failing left and right. Her bank might even fail shortly. Also, more importantly, she’s bloody tired of all the inter-office political crap that goes with being a banker and she is seriously thinking of joining her roommate working as a landscaper. Juliet is something like 27 and is girly and has large breasts (what, again, it came up in the book - okay, technically they are described as 'ample' that spill out when 'released' and are 'more beautiful' than Trent ever imagined breasts could be).
Juliet and Trent both have their point of views expressed in the book. There are other well-defined side characters, though, of importance. Like that roommate (I wish to go with ‘Michelle’? Am I right? Crap, this is what happens when you take 4 days before you put your thoughts down - it's Monica) who is straight and working on being a landscaper, and Chuck Norris (not his actual name, see ‘my brain is stupid and retains nothing and I took too long to write a review’ above; his actual name is probably something like . . . um . . Mitch . . or Buck . . or . . . Nacho . . really, I have no idea - it's Elton, big bearded viking type). Elton is also a really tall person, though he’s a man. One who likes wearing heavy make-up. No, not for that reason, but because he’s a gamer. And he thinks it’s important for him to wear make-up that looks like a skull. On his face. (he and Trent, and the rest of the people who work at their store, are called something like ‘the Baydale Reapers’ or something like that). Juliet’s 10 year old sister is massively important also – what with that’s how Juliet and Trent meet, then there’s a birthday party, and stuff. Somewhat of lesser importance, but still there, are Elton’s relatives, and the other people who work on the team and at the store. Another layer of character is that which has had a major impact on someone of importance, but does not actually appear in the book – except in flashbacks – like that massive religious dick that is Trent’s father.
The interactions between the various people were fun. The romance was also nice. There was even some interesting sex that occurred. I was going to immediately read the next book in the series until I realized that it seems to have nothing much in connection to the first book (on the surface; well there’s crippling nightmares mentioned in the second books description – that’s a common theme, then there’s Tweedy Contractors; which plays a part in the first book – indirectly . . . eventually). Neither of the characters appears to be gamers, though. Or geeky. So . . . that’s a let-down. Got distracted.
Hmm. What else to say about this book . . . hmms. Not as much as the first book I read by this author (‘Truth behind the mask’), but there’s only a half star difference in ratings (which means both ended up as ‘4 stars’ as far as GoodReads knows).
I need to stop taking so long to write reviews.
Rating: 4.00
January 27 2017
Book involves a super tall woman who looks like a force of nature, super powerful, the ultimate of ultimate butches who . . . doesn’t really see herself that way and who has trouble with the concept of relationships based entirely on her kid-years. She’s a gamer – a professional game playing person who plays in tournaments, on a team, sponsored by her employer – a gaming store in a mall (most of her time is spent working there; or gaming back at her place; occasionally tournaments). This ultra-butch woman is Trent Williams. Gentle-giant type. Geeky. Small breasts (what, it came up in the book). Somewhere in her 30s.
Book also involves Juliet Sullivan – on the fast track at her bank but . . . the economy is crap, and companies are failing left and right. Her bank might even fail shortly. Also, more importantly, she’s bloody tired of all the inter-office political crap that goes with being a banker and she is seriously thinking of joining her roommate working as a landscaper. Juliet is something like 27 and is girly and has large breasts (what, again, it came up in the book - okay, technically they are described as 'ample' that spill out when 'released' and are 'more beautiful' than Trent ever imagined breasts could be).
"Fuck," Trent mumbled when Juliet's ample breasts were released. "They're more beautiful than I even imagined."play with them and stuff, what, it gets graphic and stuff. (61% into the book)
Juliet threw the scrap of clothing on top of her shirt. She leaned closer into Trent. "You've been imagining my breasts, have you?"
"Every damn minute I could get," Trent said, reaching up to hold them in her palms and . . .
Juliet and Trent both have their point of views expressed in the book. There are other well-defined side characters, though, of importance. Like that roommate (I wish to go with ‘Michelle’? Am I right? Crap, this is what happens when you take 4 days before you put your thoughts down - it's Monica) who is straight and working on being a landscaper, and Chuck Norris (not his actual name, see ‘my brain is stupid and retains nothing and I took too long to write a review’ above; his actual name is probably something like . . . um . . Mitch . . or Buck . . or . . . Nacho . . really, I have no idea - it's Elton, big bearded viking type). Elton is also a really tall person, though he’s a man. One who likes wearing heavy make-up. No, not for that reason, but because he’s a gamer. And he thinks it’s important for him to wear make-up that looks like a skull. On his face. (he and Trent, and the rest of the people who work at their store, are called something like ‘the Baydale Reapers’ or something like that). Juliet’s 10 year old sister is massively important also – what with that’s how Juliet and Trent meet, then there’s a birthday party, and stuff. Somewhat of lesser importance, but still there, are Elton’s relatives, and the other people who work on the team and at the store. Another layer of character is that which has had a major impact on someone of importance, but does not actually appear in the book – except in flashbacks – like that massive religious dick that is Trent’s father.
The interactions between the various people were fun. The romance was also nice. There was even some interesting sex that occurred. I was going to immediately read the next book in the series until I realized that it seems to have nothing much in connection to the first book (on the surface; well there’s crippling nightmares mentioned in the second books description – that’s a common theme, then there’s Tweedy Contractors; which plays a part in the first book – indirectly . . . eventually). Neither of the characters appears to be gamers, though. Or geeky. So . . . that’s a let-down. Got distracted.
Hmm. What else to say about this book . . . hmms. Not as much as the first book I read by this author (‘Truth behind the mask’), but there’s only a half star difference in ratings (which means both ended up as ‘4 stars’ as far as GoodReads knows).
I need to stop taking so long to write reviews.
Rating: 4.00
January 27 2017
June 17, 2022
An enjoyable romance for a hot but tortured butch gamer named Trent.
Trent (32) meets and helps out 11 year old Kayleigh and meets her gorgeous and voluptuous much older sister, Juliet (27). The two start a tentative dance of obvious attraction.
Trent is still hurt from much stuff in her past and never lets women close, playing the stone butch, but it's clear to Juliet that she is hiding her true self and pretending.
There's a fair bit of dramatic back and forth in the internal monologue and a slow burn romance that otherwise burns quite hot between the couple. But is realistic with the issues shown, and sympathetic.
There's gamer elements, found family aspects and lots of great friendship moments, too. I like the realism of Trent having issues and difficult things she needed to talk about and address and that she was willing to do so for Juliet and how in kind Juliet responded with understanding and empathy. So they are both ultimately perfect for one another. And quite hot in the bedroom, too.
An excellent butch femme romance that avoids the negative tropes that plague the genre!
Trent (32) meets and helps out 11 year old Kayleigh and meets her gorgeous and voluptuous much older sister, Juliet (27). The two start a tentative dance of obvious attraction.
Trent is still hurt from much stuff in her past and never lets women close, playing the stone butch, but it's clear to Juliet that she is hiding her true self and pretending.
There's a fair bit of dramatic back and forth in the internal monologue and a slow burn romance that otherwise burns quite hot between the couple. But is realistic with the issues shown, and sympathetic.
There's gamer elements, found family aspects and lots of great friendship moments, too. I like the realism of Trent having issues and difficult things she needed to talk about and address and that she was willing to do so for Juliet and how in kind Juliet responded with understanding and empathy. So they are both ultimately perfect for one another. And quite hot in the bedroom, too.
An excellent butch femme romance that avoids the negative tropes that plague the genre!
September 6, 2024
4,0 stars
This was very good, the MCs were likeable (I liked teddy-bear Trent the best) and the story wasn't half bad either.
But don't expect much substance.
It's effectively a Hallmark story.
But quite a decent one
Edit September 2024: the author has written better books, but it's decent and I got what I came for, but upon reconsideration it's more of a 4 stars story, than a 4,5 one.
This was very good, the MCs were likeable (I liked teddy-bear Trent the best) and the story wasn't half bad either.
But don't expect much substance.
It's effectively a Hallmark story.
But quite a decent one
Edit September 2024: the author has written better books, but it's decent and I got what I came for, but upon reconsideration it's more of a 4 stars story, than a 4,5 one.
May 28, 2019
What a fantastic story!
Trent loves computer gaming. She works for a games store near her home, she plays games online with friends at weekends and competes in gaming competitions with her team. Her life is gaming and that suits Trent just fine. Until she meets Juliette... Then everything changes. She doesn’t do entanglements but she can’t stop thinking about Juliette. Trent doesn’t want the heart ache that Juliette could bring but she also can’t help herself either.
Honestly, I was reading Playing with Fire and then I released that this book is a series. So, I swiftly put it down and started the first book in the series, Playing Passions Game. Thank goodness I did because it’s such a wonderful story line. The book is written from both protagonist’s point of view which I love. The story is quick and not much angst which again was right up my street.
I absolutely love Trent. She’s the epitome of sexy for me. She’s butch, sweet, a game nerd and cares about everyone in her life. She’s amazing and honestly, I hope she continues to be a part of each of the following books in the series. Juliette complimented her in every way and I think what I loved most was she gave Trent the comfort and love to be who she was without pushing her into something she isn’t. It was all one major swoon.
The chemistry between Trent and Juliette was magnificent and really added a whole other sexy level to their intimacy. The sex scenes were written incredibly well while still being extremely hot.
The secondary characters were also fantastic. I really adored the chemistry and comradery between the set of friends. Also, how much they all support each other. They gave me the feels when they talked about how they care for and support each other.
If this is a taster of the series, then I am 100% on board!
Loved it. 5 stars
Trent loves computer gaming. She works for a games store near her home, she plays games online with friends at weekends and competes in gaming competitions with her team. Her life is gaming and that suits Trent just fine. Until she meets Juliette... Then everything changes. She doesn’t do entanglements but she can’t stop thinking about Juliette. Trent doesn’t want the heart ache that Juliette could bring but she also can’t help herself either.
Honestly, I was reading Playing with Fire and then I released that this book is a series. So, I swiftly put it down and started the first book in the series, Playing Passions Game. Thank goodness I did because it’s such a wonderful story line. The book is written from both protagonist’s point of view which I love. The story is quick and not much angst which again was right up my street.
I absolutely love Trent. She’s the epitome of sexy for me. She’s butch, sweet, a game nerd and cares about everyone in her life. She’s amazing and honestly, I hope she continues to be a part of each of the following books in the series. Juliette complimented her in every way and I think what I loved most was she gave Trent the comfort and love to be who she was without pushing her into something she isn’t. It was all one major swoon.
The chemistry between Trent and Juliette was magnificent and really added a whole other sexy level to their intimacy. The sex scenes were written incredibly well while still being extremely hot.
The secondary characters were also fantastic. I really adored the chemistry and comradery between the set of friends. Also, how much they all support each other. They gave me the feels when they talked about how they care for and support each other.
If this is a taster of the series, then I am 100% on board!
Loved it. 5 stars
Read
April 22, 2023Trent, a gamer, rescues Juliet's ten-year-old sister from a bunch of boys and brings her home. There she meets Juliet for the first time.
Everyone who has a slightly obsessive hobby, be it gaming or writing, will be able to relate to some of the things in the book.
The story is entertaining, but lacks big conflicts that keep them apart.
Everyone who has a slightly obsessive hobby, be it gaming or writing, will be able to relate to some of the things in the book.
The story is entertaining, but lacks big conflicts that keep them apart.
October 1, 2012
It has been a couple of months since I read this book and I have to say that this story and set of characters has stayed with me, while other books have faded into the background.
This book has delightful characters, with depth, issues, emotions and beauty. The plot is allowed to evolve and is richly seeded with appealing and thoughtfully developed secondary characters that add to both the plot and the world created by the author. From the elderly next door neighbour through to the gamers at the tournament, the author has an eye for character and the ability to make them come a live on the page.
Everything about this story felt authentic and unforced. I love Trent as a character and hope that she can make a subsequent appearance because she has so much more to give. Classic butch with a heart, but not a caricature.
I am looking forward to reading Truth Behind the Mask, heard some great things about this book as well.
Mags
This book has delightful characters, with depth, issues, emotions and beauty. The plot is allowed to evolve and is richly seeded with appealing and thoughtfully developed secondary characters that add to both the plot and the world created by the author. From the elderly next door neighbour through to the gamers at the tournament, the author has an eye for character and the ability to make them come a live on the page.
Everything about this story felt authentic and unforced. I love Trent as a character and hope that she can make a subsequent appearance because she has so much more to give. Classic butch with a heart, but not a caricature.
I am looking forward to reading Truth Behind the Mask, heard some great things about this book as well.
Mags
October 1, 2019
Bit of a surprise as I really enjoyed this - though some bits difficult to read when it came to Trent's past abuse - mentioned early but dealt with in some detail. Will certainly read No 2 in series but, ooooh, pricey for only 200 odd pages! Bold Stroakes Books strikes again. I wonder if I should set them up a meeting with my bank manager? :)
August 15, 2021
I liked the way this started off, showing what kind of person Trent is. It is such a sweet story of two women with ordinary jobs finding each other and falling in love. Trent is a gamer who works at a gaming store and whose friends are all gamers, too. Juliet is a banker dissatisfied with her job, living with her best friend. Juliet is so patient with Trent that I could tell how attracted she was to Trent just from her patience and understanding. She slowly pulls out Trent’s past, which rounds out Trent’s character, but also shows how determined Juliet is to be with Trent.
This story is a bit dated, since it was written a decade ago, set during the last recession when banks were failing, but it was still fun to read. Because I’m not into gaming like the character Trent is, I found it all interesting and I now understand the allure for some people. I liked learning that. More than that, I was intrigued by Trent. She’s so butch yet so shy and sweet. Evidently, everyone in her vicinity knows and likes her, from the kids harassing Juliet’s sister Kayleigh to the elderly next-door neighbor to the entire gaming community. (Of course, the last could be because she works at a game store and plays on a winning team.)
Anyway, this was a sweet butch-femme romance with little angst which I appreciated.
This story is a bit dated, since it was written a decade ago, set during the last recession when banks were failing, but it was still fun to read. Because I’m not into gaming like the character Trent is, I found it all interesting and I now understand the allure for some people. I liked learning that. More than that, I was intrigued by Trent. She’s so butch yet so shy and sweet. Evidently, everyone in her vicinity knows and likes her, from the kids harassing Juliet’s sister Kayleigh to the elderly next-door neighbor to the entire gaming community. (Of course, the last could be because she works at a game store and plays on a winning team.)
Anyway, this was a sweet butch-femme romance with little angst which I appreciated.
January 4, 2016
I loved this one. It made me so, so happy. There wasn't a lot of conflict, but all of the characters are great and fun to follow. They also show up in an equally lovely follow-up story in Amor and More: Love Everafter.
October 13, 2011
I read this simply because the main character was a gamer - how often does that happen in romance - and I was not disappointed. Trent is such a lovable butch :) and Juliet was the perfect lady for her.
This story is low on drama and high on the family and friends, two things I actually seek out when reading romance. I think some readers wanted more drama between Juliet and Trent, but with contemporary romance that sort of drama always seems forced. Trent's back story and initial hesitation to get involved with Juliet were more than enough for me and I was very happy with the end of the story.
If you're looking for something light, fun, sexy (the sexing is hot) and different, definitely check out this one.
This story is low on drama and high on the family and friends, two things I actually seek out when reading romance. I think some readers wanted more drama between Juliet and Trent, but with contemporary romance that sort of drama always seems forced. Trent's back story and initial hesitation to get involved with Juliet were more than enough for me and I was very happy with the end of the story.
If you're looking for something light, fun, sexy (the sexing is hot) and different, definitely check out this one.
October 1, 2020
A pleasant surprise
This story had all the things I thrive on reading about from the butch/femme dynamic, the slow building sexual tension between the two love interests, the funny yet supporting side characters that help keep the protags in line when their heads get in the way of their hearts, and the sex. A great relationship story with very little angst and or temper tantrums, which I appreciate. Davis has a talent for writing explicit sexual intimacy without it being vulgar. It's been a while since a sex scene has aroused me. Brava.
4 stars
This story had all the things I thrive on reading about from the butch/femme dynamic, the slow building sexual tension between the two love interests, the funny yet supporting side characters that help keep the protags in line when their heads get in the way of their hearts, and the sex. A great relationship story with very little angst and or temper tantrums, which I appreciate. Davis has a talent for writing explicit sexual intimacy without it being vulgar. It's been a while since a sex scene has aroused me. Brava.
4 stars
June 2, 2019
Loved this book. I'm in love with Trent. I first met her in book 3 'Playing With Fire' and had to read the series from the start to read Trent and Juliet's story. It is a fantastic read. I think both characters are made for each other. I loved all the secondary characters, especially Juliet's younger sister, Kayleigh.
Looking forward to reading book 2 in the series. I started with book 3 not realising it was part of a series.
Looking forward to reading book 2 in the series. I started with book 3 not realising it was part of a series.
June 2, 2011
I was excited to read Playing Passion's Game by Lesley Davis as I've totally enjoyed all her previous books, they all get a regular showing in my re-read list. However, I wondered if I'd like this one as much, considering there was no super heroes or magic or witchcraft or ghosts. The answer is a resounding, you bet I did!
The story is set in the world of gamers. Trent Williams lives for games, they're a constant in her life and don't leave much time for anything else, especially love. Not that she's looking, having kept herself closed off after an incident in her teenage years. She's happy with her games, playing them, working with them and competing in games tournaments with a close group of gaming friends. It's while setting up a hall for a games meeting with her best friend, boss and gaming team captain, Elton, that she meets 10 year old Kayleigh Sullivan.
Saving Kayleigh from a group of boys and walking her home is about to change Trent's life completely. Change comes in the form of Kayleigh's big sister Juliet. Her beauty instantly captures Trent's attention and has her longing for more than a quick fling. But the question is, can she overcome a lifetime of guarding her heart and risk it for a chance at happiness. Juliet just may be worth the risk.
This was a lovely sweet romance. Trent is wonderfully strong, gentle and kind, but with an inner fragility that is endearing and draws Juliet to her. I really liked how sensitive Juliet was and how gently she handled Trent, yet there was still wonderfully hot passion between them. The supporting characters of Trent's friend Elton and Juliet's friend Monica were great and added a wonderful touch to the story, as did all the other minor characters. Playing Passion's Game is a wonderful romance that I thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to reading again.
The story is set in the world of gamers. Trent Williams lives for games, they're a constant in her life and don't leave much time for anything else, especially love. Not that she's looking, having kept herself closed off after an incident in her teenage years. She's happy with her games, playing them, working with them and competing in games tournaments with a close group of gaming friends. It's while setting up a hall for a games meeting with her best friend, boss and gaming team captain, Elton, that she meets 10 year old Kayleigh Sullivan.
Saving Kayleigh from a group of boys and walking her home is about to change Trent's life completely. Change comes in the form of Kayleigh's big sister Juliet. Her beauty instantly captures Trent's attention and has her longing for more than a quick fling. But the question is, can she overcome a lifetime of guarding her heart and risk it for a chance at happiness. Juliet just may be worth the risk.
This was a lovely sweet romance. Trent is wonderfully strong, gentle and kind, but with an inner fragility that is endearing and draws Juliet to her. I really liked how sensitive Juliet was and how gently she handled Trent, yet there was still wonderfully hot passion between them. The supporting characters of Trent's friend Elton and Juliet's friend Monica were great and added a wonderful touch to the story, as did all the other minor characters. Playing Passion's Game is a wonderful romance that I thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to reading again.
May 12, 2019
First, I am not a gamer but I can appreciate the skill and dedication involved. Trent Williams, is a gamer and other than protecting her heart and home, nothing else matters. Juliet Sullivan, is a successful banker and is not happy with her life. Kaitlyn is Juliet's younger sister and what a positive addition to the read she is. Kaitlyn had me smiling and laughing out loud with her direct questions and curious mind. Elton is Trent's best friend and protector. Monica is Juliet's best friend. Trent's family situation was awful and I understand her need to get out and get out fast. As the story unfolds, the reader hears the self-talk of both Trent and Juliet which provides energy and insight into what and why they proceed as they do. This read had me thinking about self-preservation and taking a chance.
August 1, 2015
Refreshing to read a sweet romance without all of the conflict and angst usually found in this type of book.
May 13, 2020
3.5 stars from me.
I enjoyed it as it was a quick read. I'm a butch gamer myself and my girlfriend is a paperwork loving type so I related a lot to these characters in terms of their interests and hobbies. I'm glad both of them were genuinely nice people and that there wasn't any of the usual drama you find in romance books (apart from one that lasts like half a page). That said, I do feel like some conflict and resolution was missing? There wasn't anything particularly interesting that happened apart from them meeting and falling in love (and in bed, there are a few longer sex scenes).
If you want an easy going romance with gaming as a topic, 100% go for it!
I enjoyed it as it was a quick read. I'm a butch gamer myself and my girlfriend is a paperwork loving type so I related a lot to these characters in terms of their interests and hobbies. I'm glad both of them were genuinely nice people and that there wasn't any of the usual drama you find in romance books (apart from one that lasts like half a page). That said, I do feel like some conflict and resolution was missing? There wasn't anything particularly interesting that happened apart from them meeting and falling in love (and in bed, there are a few longer sex scenes).
If you want an easy going romance with gaming as a topic, 100% go for it!
November 11, 2017
perhaps because I am not much of a gamer, I didn't find myself invested in the story. I wish there was more said about Trent's struggle as she overcame and perhaps more time (am I being too realistic? ) for Trent and Juliet's love to transcend to having their own kids...just saying.
February 6, 2013
A book about a lesbian gamer! A direct line to my heart. Truly enjoyed this book and, especially if you're a gamer, you'll like it too.
Read
March 26, 2019Heart warming!
This is one of my favorite book among hundreds of books I have read. The romance, friendships and a new insight of a gamers world is fantastic. Can't help but read this book again and again.
This is one of my favorite book among hundreds of books I have read. The romance, friendships and a new insight of a gamers world is fantastic. Can't help but read this book again and again.
March 6, 2017
I loved this book.
I don't know why I never reviewed this book before. I've read it so many times. Excellent story. Great insider gaming talk. Great romance. I wish it would be made into an audio.
I don't know why I never reviewed this book before. I've read it so many times. Excellent story. Great insider gaming talk. Great romance. I wish it would be made into an audio.
January 20, 2023
3.5 Stars
June 8, 2011
Don't get me started on the title. How corny can you get?
Although the bluntness of the title kinda lays out the scene for the book. The only reason I was interested in this is that the main character is a gamer. Don't have that very often, so I went and read.
Well, you gotta hand it to Lesley Davis that she manages to push many of my buttons ;) It's the first time I've even heard of her, but she has written quite a few books.
The story is so, so, so predictable, even little things you just know will pop up again. Empty rooms in the house? Symbolize her empty life that's just waiting to get meaning because of the woman she meets (gorgeous, of course) who can then move into the house to make it a home. You get my drift. The kid who jump starts the story then conveniently disappears when her job in the story is done, etc. So yeah, I knew it was a romance when I picked it up, but I didn't know the characters were so flat (troubled butch, anyone?). I did like the secondary characters Monica and Elton, and the kid.
Beyond the story though, the writing managed to annoy me greatly. Odd choices for tenses and prepositions here and there, no clear voice for the characters (odd phrases, sometimes sounded very posh), the same goes for the narrative, sometimes I had the feeling the author had the thesaurus too handy when writing dialog and using very casual language in the narrative. The bio at the end of the book then says the author is British. Hmm... that threw me for a loop, maybe some of the odd choices are British English, though I don't think so, and with the American English spelling that's really neither here nor there. It also takes place in the US, an imaginary town, I believe, so the characters should speak AE, as nothing else was indicated. Having AE dialog and BE narrative would just be weird, so I'm not sure that's the reason for the choices that were made. She also managed to put in my pet peeves: using wait on instead of wait for, I know that's spreading, but it bugs me and I was not aware that it is BE as well. Using females when referring to women... argh. I'm also not quite sure she meant to say 'feminine company'. Also, the author used a lot of internal monologues to convey the inner life of both the main characters. I'm not sure if that's just lazy writing or bad writing when those monologues are the only instrument you have to let me look into your characters.
I did enjoy the beginning that was gaming heavy and the little kid was adorable, but overall the characters are flat and clichéd, and the story is too fabricated and artifical.
Although the bluntness of the title kinda lays out the scene for the book. The only reason I was interested in this is that the main character is a gamer. Don't have that very often, so I went and read.
Well, you gotta hand it to Lesley Davis that she manages to push many of my buttons ;) It's the first time I've even heard of her, but she has written quite a few books.
The story is so, so, so predictable, even little things you just know will pop up again. Empty rooms in the house? Symbolize her empty life that's just waiting to get meaning because of the woman she meets (gorgeous, of course) who can then move into the house to make it a home. You get my drift. The kid who jump starts the story then conveniently disappears when her job in the story is done, etc. So yeah, I knew it was a romance when I picked it up, but I didn't know the characters were so flat (troubled butch, anyone?). I did like the secondary characters Monica and Elton, and the kid.
Beyond the story though, the writing managed to annoy me greatly. Odd choices for tenses and prepositions here and there, no clear voice for the characters (odd phrases, sometimes sounded very posh), the same goes for the narrative, sometimes I had the feeling the author had the thesaurus too handy when writing dialog and using very casual language in the narrative. The bio at the end of the book then says the author is British. Hmm... that threw me for a loop, maybe some of the odd choices are British English, though I don't think so, and with the American English spelling that's really neither here nor there. It also takes place in the US, an imaginary town, I believe, so the characters should speak AE, as nothing else was indicated. Having AE dialog and BE narrative would just be weird, so I'm not sure that's the reason for the choices that were made. She also managed to put in my pet peeves: using wait on instead of wait for, I know that's spreading, but it bugs me and I was not aware that it is BE as well. Using females when referring to women... argh. I'm also not quite sure she meant to say 'feminine company'. Also, the author used a lot of internal monologues to convey the inner life of both the main characters. I'm not sure if that's just lazy writing or bad writing when those monologues are the only instrument you have to let me look into your characters.
I did enjoy the beginning that was gaming heavy and the little kid was adorable, but overall the characters are flat and clichéd, and the story is too fabricated and artifical.
May 19, 2016
Playing Passion's Game by Leslie Davis is a contemporary romance. Trent Williams’s entire world revolves around her love of gaming. She has little time for romantic distractions and prefers instead to be with her closest friends who, like her, live for the thrill that comes from a competition well played. Happy in her job, seemingly content with her life, Trent still finds herself haunted by the past that threatens to keep her alone forever. The self-imposed solitude she places on her heart only leaves her all too aware of just how lonely she is. All work and no play in her executive job forces Juliet Sullivan to search for a different direction in life. Disillusioned by it all, Juliet is desperate to seek out new horizons. When Trent unwittingly comes to the rescue of her younger sister, Juliet immediately finds herself drawn to Trent’s silent strength and undeniable charm. Now the new direction Juliet so desperately desires seems intent on leading her straight into Trent’s arms.
Playing Passion's Game is a wonderful read. As I expected from the author, both Trent and Juliet felt very real. They each had their faults, fears, and fallibilities just like the rest of us. Even though some stereotypes were touched upon, the majority of the time it was done in a way that pointed out the expectations of others, and the reality. I think readers that enjoy well written characters and realistic stories will find themselves completely caught up in the story. Honestly, the characters are people that I would love to hang out with and know in real life. The fact that the main characters are lesbians is more of a side note- the romance, characters, and struggles they face are so real that it was organic. The difference between an author that truly knows their characters and how they feel, and those that write to fill a niche market or for the love of money rather that the story is clear. Davis is obviously a writer that loves what they are writing, rather than writing to follow the money. Which will hopeful help them continue writing and find success- because I want more!
Playing Passion's Game might have a slightly corny title, but like the other books I have read from the author I quickly found myself lost in the story and caring deeply for all the characters. I adore the author, and will continue reading whatever they release. I am eagerly waiting for more!
Playing Passion's Game is a wonderful read. As I expected from the author, both Trent and Juliet felt very real. They each had their faults, fears, and fallibilities just like the rest of us. Even though some stereotypes were touched upon, the majority of the time it was done in a way that pointed out the expectations of others, and the reality. I think readers that enjoy well written characters and realistic stories will find themselves completely caught up in the story. Honestly, the characters are people that I would love to hang out with and know in real life. The fact that the main characters are lesbians is more of a side note- the romance, characters, and struggles they face are so real that it was organic. The difference between an author that truly knows their characters and how they feel, and those that write to fill a niche market or for the love of money rather that the story is clear. Davis is obviously a writer that loves what they are writing, rather than writing to follow the money. Which will hopeful help them continue writing and find success- because I want more!
Playing Passion's Game might have a slightly corny title, but like the other books I have read from the author I quickly found myself lost in the story and caring deeply for all the characters. I adore the author, and will continue reading whatever they release. I am eagerly waiting for more!
January 29, 2012
What can you say about it?
It's a fairly good, typical lesbian romance story that's a satisfying read but is nothing special.
Nothing wrong with that at all....
It's a fairly good, typical lesbian romance story that's a satisfying read but is nothing special.
Nothing wrong with that at all....
October 25, 2015
2011 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
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