Rules of the Game

by Elaine Raco Chase

Chase, Elaine Raco

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Fiction

136 pages, Hardcover

First published May 28, 1980

About the author

Elaine Raco Chase is the award-winning author of seventeen paperback novels with over 3 million books in print. She is published in 25 countries and 15 languages.

As a romance writer, Chase has won two sales awards for top romance novels of the year, Romantic Times Lifetime Achievement Award for romantic suspense, and the Affaire de Coeur Silver Pen Award for writing excellence. Her non-fiction debut Amateur Detectives - A Writer's Guide was nominated for the prestigious Agatha Christie Award.

Elaine was past President of Sisters in Crime International, a charter member of Romance Writers of America and a registered lecturer for Poets and Writers.

She currently teaches a variety of writing courses.

Reviews

[Ronda Tutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart Warming & Passionate!

What a beautiful Read, I was captivated immediately by this realistic smooth fast pace story, Samantha's character was easy to identify with as the traits of this independent woman refreshingly reminded me of myself - a giver of unconditional love yet easily hurt and taken advantage of, dedicated hard worker who can fend for herself, and a successful but humble personality that has everyone respecting her except for the jealous/conniving maliciousness conceded bitches who think they are better because of their high society bull shit.

The story had many emotional characteristics of love, jealousy, deceitfulness, hatred, desire, humor, passion, and happiness that flowed through out the book that any reader could identify with. I loved the story because the love and desire between Sam and Adam was a slow build up to a wonderful climax of sexually bliss and happiness at the end. I totally wanted to reach inside and give Sam a high five for standing her ground and having Adam come to her on her terms. However, I loved that Adam was one of the good respectable men and not only charmingly sexy but put pleasing his woman first before his own self. I have to say that the erotic scenes are sensually and steaming hot so get ready to bite your lip and cross your legs to hold back your own climax - LOL

There was more to the story than just the romance and love between Sam and Adam. The reader got a insight to Sam and Adam's busy working life as well and I love the fact that it dealt with the Wounded Warrior Project. As a disabled veteran myself, it was an honor to read about the dedicated civilians who actually care about the sacrifice the soldiers endured for their country.

I am now a new fan and I will definitely be reading more works by Elaine Raco Chase and highly recommend to anyone who loves contemporary romance with erotica.

Excellent Read!

[Carol Lilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW another great read by Fab Author Elaine Raco Chase. In “Rules of the Game” you meet the adorable, strong and independent Samantha Logan, who is the right hand gal/Paralegal to the very influential Judge Harold Griffen. Judge Griffen looks upon Sam as another daughter. Trouble is, he has a real daughter, Janine, who is a spoiled brat and just loves to manipulate people and circumstances to get her own way. As Sam assists Judge Griffen prepare for his wedding to the lovely Katherine, and for his ultimate retirement party from his career, she meets the Judge’s best friend, Adam Rourke. Assuming Adam is around the same age as the Judge, she is expecting an elderly man and is duly shocked when she meets the handsome Adam face to face and realizes he is probably somewhere in his 30’s. Then the sparks begin. Strong willed, independent woman meets rich, strong willed, handsome, wealthy bachelor! As they are drawn together, obstacles try to darken their paths. Janine and others do their best to stop Sam and Adam from having their happily ever after. You will love this book and the ending. Elaine never disappoints in any of her books – and this book is no different. It is fun easy read. I read it in one night – because I just could not put it down!

[Nicola Wolfe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutley loved this book, read it in one! Very believeable characters that were easy to relate to! Loved Sam, proved you dont need a hot man to be able to live your life but it sure does help! Haha! Looking forward to reading more from Elaine Raco Chase x

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the privilege of reading / listening to the audiobook versions of several titles by Elaine Raco Chase. Her romances are spicy, with banter and dialogue that is realistic, female protagonists that are strong and often confident without being brash or showboating. This title is no different: in Rules of the Game we meet Samantha, an independent attorney with a penchant for chocolate and a no-nonsense ability to bully, cajole and sweet talk those in the Wounded Warrior project to do her bidding.

When she meets Adam, a friend of her boss, the rich, urbane and often abrupt ex-marine instantly sparks her interest, even as she is pulling away. Utterly enchanted and wanting to react with his go-to alpha tendencies, Adam is both confused and confounded when she doesn’t react as he expects.

Elaine Raco Chase then sets the story for multiple encounters and conversations, with sexual tension being predominant, when you aren’t chuckling over the banter between the two. Or melting when she scenes snowball to ramp up the steam quotient, for there is steam heat here in these pages.

These are light, fun romances: you know what you will get with one of Elaine’s books, and you will enjoy every moment of the journey getting to the end. And you will revel in the dialogue, so real that you could overhear it from your seat in the restaurant, and lean just a tiny bit closer to not miss a word. Enjoy this book; it will entertain you on an otherwise quiet afternoon.

I purchased a copy of this title for my own library. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[Eniko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam, a sassy, spunky paralegal with a wicked sense of humour meets Adam, a former marine turned wealthy businessman with a very jaded opinion of women. She put him in his place quite fast and he pays attention.

This fast-paced romance is without a dull moment, and had me turning the pages before I could finish them. I loved the natural feeling of the slowly built relationship, despite the instant attraction, leading to explosive passion when they did come together. This story is light and full of humor, Sam’s quips had me laughing out loud. This story left me smiling.

Rating: 5 stars, 3 flames

I was provided a copy of the book by BTS eMag for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review – all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[Gayl Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this down. The relationship between Samantha and Adam was developed brilliantly. I especially liked Sam's character. She was smart, funny, and unassuming. A perfect foil for Adam.

The way their relationship grew was refreshing. This was not a book where the couple jumped into bed and into love. It took a natural and believable path with both characters experiencing the normal doubts and fears and denial over their growing feelings.

This is the first book of Ms. Chase's that I've read but it will not be my last.

Rules Of The Game

[JillyB · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very short(150 pages)well done romance. This was romance done right and also had a nice dose of angst for my angsty needs. This is my 2nd book by ERC. She does a nice job with not only her main characters, but also her secondary characters. I believe this book was originally written in 1980, but it seems to work for current times with a few things that were dated.

I am not sure I am able to convey what a sweet story this ended up being. Our main characters really get to know each other and enjoy each other. Neither one has ever been in love so it is sweet to see how they handle these new emotions. Ok lets meet the characters:

Heroine: Samantha, 24 year old virgin who is naturally pretty, intelligent, and witty. She seems to have no problem attracting men, but she is not a serial dater. Her personality really comes through in the author’s writing. She sticks up for herself, but is not abrasive. She also shows some of her vulnerability which gets exposed as she falls in love with the hero. She works for a judge as his assistant while attending school. She has a very easy relationship with the judge and is like the daughter he never had(he actually has a daughter, but she is a witch!) The judge has several things happening. He is getting married and is retiring. His best friend is coming in to be part of the festivities, plus he has business in NYC as he owns a publishing firm. The h has never met him and is looking forward to meeting the elderly, best friend of the judge.

Hero: Adam, 33 year’s old and definitely not the doddering old friend the h was expecting. He puts the h on defense right away by engaging her in lively discussions meant to disarm her. Our H is used to women falling at his feet. They are also interested in his bank book. The h throws him for a loop by not being the usual fare he is used to. When it is suggested that she join him, the judge, and the judge’s fiancée for dinner, she politely declines as she has a class that can’t be missed. The H suggests that they get together at a future date where they can explore their lively conversation more in depth. Her response: “Not for all the tea in China,” she replied through set teeth and squeezing by his body, she slammed the door on his throaty laughter.” Famous last words….

The hero shows up at her lake home that she and her sister inherited from their father.(Her sister has recently married and moved to California). The H lets himself in and makes himself at home depositing a year’s worth of Chinese tea. The h stumbles over the tea as she comes back to the house after scuba diving. From here on out, the h and H embark on a great romance.

The love story follows them as they do simple things like apple picking with the neighbor kids, friendly neighborhood get together with football, dinner with dancing, etc…Included in their romance are some funny moments along with exploratory kisses. It is treat to watch these two fall in love.

However, ERC also decides that we need to have some black moments included. The judges spoiled bitchy daughter Janine is the wannabe ow in this situation.

Janine has set her cap for the hero. However, he has made it clear to the h at the outset that he has Janine’s number and he doesn’t plan on calling it ever. The h shows a little bit of her insecurity as Janine is beautiful, and fits in the same social circles as the H. In one scene Janine hijacks the h and H’s date to have them join her and her date. She wastes no time in cutting the h out of the conversation. However, our h does get a lick in. Then when they do the whole girly bathroom thing, Janine lets her claws out and really starts to do a number on the h’s resolve to dismiss her petty games. She leaves the bathroom and bumps into the drummer of the band who rescues her and ends up making the H a little jealous in the process.

Our H and h do eventually communicate(unlike other romances where failure to communicate goes on and on), and he drags out of her what Janine said. He doesn’t keep any secrets from the h and when the ow calls him he makes sure the h is listening at the same time. It was just a little gesture for him to show her he isn’t going to play Janine’s games. Janine makes a few more moves which always makes her end up looking bad and the H angry. Usually her antics end up with her manipulating it so he is separated from the h which makes him upset because our h isn’t a wallflower at functions. Nope she gets instant attention from the opposite sex and the H has to helplessly watch this to avoid causing a scene. The judge’s retirement party was the last straw and off page the H made it clear to Janine that she will never sample his wares.

Things are looking up for our h and H. Then the H is called for an emergency in NYC(I am pretty sure this is the night they were going to bring their relationship to the next level) He has to leave. But has already hinted that he doesn’t want the h to make any plans elsewhere. She tells him she loves him. For some reason the H didn’t pick up the fact that this made the h very vulnerable when instead of saying it back he kissed her instead.

The H ends up working double time in NYC. He isn’t able to call the h. The she sees newspaper clippings that show the H out and about with a beautiful actress nearby. The h realizes her ILY declaration must have been the death knell on their relationship. She goes to visit her sister in California. Then they go to Mexico City for the week. When they get back to CA the H is waiting for her. They embrace. He explains. Then he tells her they will be married the next day in Nevada!

So this story has no cheating, no winning ow’s or om’s, and lots of heart. The h and H only share some kissing, so it looks like she is going to have a white wedding in Vegas. Maybe they will even go back to the pet store and get the terrier!

[Jennifer Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

If any author knows how to write a heroine who can give a hero an attitude adjustment look no further than Elaine Raco Chase.. She never fails to surprise me... make me delighted.. love the humor.. and never fails to entertain me with her stories and characters. This time Adam and Samantha.. what a beautiful couple..Another Awesome book.. give it a try please...

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the story, and loved Sam and Adam's personalities and the way they interacted. The only complaint I had about the book was the use of apostrophes. Plural words had an 's at the end to show possessive, when they were merely plural. It was distracting.

Despite the apostrophe issue, I recommend this book. It was funny and very enjoyable (and kept me up way too late reading!)

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book follows Samantha and Adam in their tango of courtship.
Sam has a no time for a man attitude taking classes by night and working in a law firm for the judge by day; she meets Adam through the judge but their first meeting does not go well she ends up yelling at Adam and basically telling him off. She is not intimidated by who he is or what he does she just tells him what she really thinks. She is the only woman to stand up to him and speak to him that was so naturally he wants her, however she keeps trying to push him away so she is not going to be an easy prize for him to win.

This is a very good book and is written well, however my only problem is that it takes a while to get started. I did not get the page turner moment until I was around halfway through one I got there I was unstoppable and finished the rest of the book in one sitting. I like a book to grab me from the start and keep me wanting to turn the pages.

This was a great book with a solid story but was a little slow paced for me.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

I was a little skeptical at first, noticing this book had originally been published in 1980. I must admit, the author did a wonderful job updating the story for the modern world.

The heroine is a smart, talented woman with a take no prisoners attitude. The boss' best man arrives and they immediately get cross ways with each other. Samantha informs him he needs an "attitude adjustment". Adam is intrigued by Samantha in that she has absolutely no interest in his bank account, his businesses or his "flash" as I call it.

The author takes the reader on a delightful journey and I spent a couple of hours enjoying the story of Samantha and Adam.

If you are looking for a good, solid afternoon/evening read, I'd definitely consider this book.

[Francine \ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refreshingly light and engaging, this book is one cool splash of lighthearted romance. Strong, outspoken, and fiercely independent, Samantha doesn't need a man at all; her law career is the only partner she'll ever need. Then she meets Adam. The gorgeous, sexy and utterly hot publishing mogul is good friends with Sam’s boss. Their initial meeting is akin to a bull fight, all arguments and harsh words. The story is filled with myriad of emotions set in a well-balanced way. The several plot loopholes present are eclipsed by the clever banter and lovely, romantic ending.

Flames: 3

I was provided a copy of the book by BTS eMag for the purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review—all conclusions are my own responsibility

[S.M. Harshell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a book that can combine sexual tension and laughter. The bantering between the two main characters, Samantha Logan and Adam Rourke is hysterical. Nothing is sexier than a man with a great sense of humor! Adam, is definitely fit this category. The push and pull between the two has you routing for a relationship from the beginning. An added bonus is that a small part of the storyline includes the author bringing attention to the Wounded Warriors, with it being such a great cause for our veterans, its nice to bring it to the attention of someone that may not know what it is about. Doing so in a way to not make the entire book about this cause. This should definitely be part of your TBR, and if you are anything like me its a quick one night read!

[Rusty Swain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will make even the most die hard, fall in love with romance novels. It's funny, with plenty of romance, enough sexual content to make it interesting. The heroine, Samantha, is not typical and someone you would love to call a friend. Adam Rourke - wow would I love to meet a guy like him. Elaine does a wonderful job of keeping the story moving at a nice pace with a variety of characters that add charm and humor. I can promise that if you like romance novels - you're gonna love this one. I know that I do.

[WiLoveBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great characters and lots of fun. I love Sam. She is fun, sassy, and quirky. She keeps Adam on his toes. I liked when he told her he needed to download Urban Dictionary to understand her. She's not afraid to tell him when he needs an attitude adjustment. And he takes it all in stride, which is why they are a great couple. If you like light, funny romance with some steam, I definitely recommend.
As for the audio, it was great. The narrator, Rachel Logan, was easy to listen to and she was just fantastic. I would look for other books narrated by her.

[Annie ashbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Just absolutely Wow! I read this book in one night, I was so taken by the characters. Towards the middle of the book, the main character started to make me mad, but knowing more about her now I'm not so sure of my feelings that made me mad. This book was beautifully written, and the characters are so easy to fall in love with. My heart melted in an instant and I giggled so much through this book. Amazing read!

[Antie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book! I love Samantha. She is so funny and has such a quick wit. Adam is every woman's dream. He is sexy and smart. I really enjoy the way the dance around eachother before Adam reels her in. This is such a great story with lots of fun scenes that make you want to laugh out loud. I recommend this book to everyone who loves a great story with lots of laughs.

[Antie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book! I love Samantha. She is so funny and has such a quick wit. Adam is every woman's dream. He is sexy and smart. I really enjoy the way the dance around eachother before Adam reels her in. This is such a great story with lots of fun scenes that make you want to laugh out loud. I recommend this book to everyone who loves a great story with lots of laughs.

[Jeanette Hornby · Rating 3 out of 5]

I gave this novel 3 and a half Stars. It was light, entertaining, and I liked the characters and story.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute. Typical fast read girl meets boy, fall in love, happily ever after type story

[Renee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stole this review...Cute. Typical fast read girl meets boy, fall in love, happily ever after type story. Freebie on my Kindle.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an audio version that
I listen to yesterday It was amazing , I really
enjoy Sam and Adam... very well done Elaine !!!!!!!!!

[Bernie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rules Of The Game review

Rules Of The Game is a sweet romantic comedy written by w Elaine Raco Chase. Her books are highly entertaining.

[Bukcrz · Rating 2 out of 5]

Just like any other contemporary book, Same beautiful woman and boringly handsome and perfect hero dancing the courtship dance of current times.
In short, nothing distinguishes it from other books.

[Maggie Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

very Good Love story enjoyed!

[Maureen · Rating 2 out of 5]

A plethora of penalties for improper use of apostrophes.

[Dee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two-haiku review:

Smart paralegal
Works hard, meets hot businessman
Sweet, sexy story

Flip flop points of view
For previously published
Surprising mistakes

[Adele · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun read. Main character Samantha was very likable. Adam is pretty much every girls dream. LOL Witty and funny.