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Player
Joshua Handover had it all. He was handsome, rich, athletic, and had always been popular with the ladies. Yet, until he gets paired up with his beautiful but shy lab partner, Rosa, he never allowed himself to fall in love. As the chemistry between them grows, Josh realizes that his player days have come to end. But it seems his change of heart has come too late. Not only is Rosa leery of his bad boy reputation, he has four vindictive ex-girlfriends who are on a rampage. At first he doesn’t take their threats seriously, but then his tires are slashed, someone tries to poison him, and one of the girls turns up dead. Josh doesn’t know who to trust, but one thing is certain. It definitely isn’t worth the price he’s paying to be a player.
Unknown Binding
First published December 12, 2012
6 people are currently reading
831 people want to read
About the author
Laura DeLuca
44 books2,704 followersLaura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her four children and multiple cats. Her works include romantic thrillers, paranormal fiction, contemporary romance, and young adult. Visit her website at www.authorlauradeluca.blogspot.com for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 1, 2013
Gorgeous.
HOT.
Rich.
Popular.
Captain of the Wrestling Team.
Meet Josh Hanover--
[image error]
He's Mr.Have-It-All.
He's so full of himself sometimes, the only one who gets him and who's always there for him is his best friend,
Andrea--
[image error]
She's not the only woman in his life.
He gets all the girl he likes, alright, but,he juggles four girls... at the same time.
Let's meet his GIRLFRIENDS , shall we?
Exhibit A
[image error]
Name: Elena Huber
Physical Attributes: Blonde bombshell. Queen of the in-crowd. 3S- Sexy. Stylish. Smart. Complete package.
What didn't work for him: Self-centered, annoying, snobby bitch.
Exhibit B
[image error]
Name: Jasmine "Jazz" Preston
Physical Attributes: Polar opposite of Elena. Goth. A girl who likes to push the limits of social acceptability.
What didn't work for him: Practices witchcraft. Josh swore she put a spell on him to make him so infatuated with her. If that was the case, the spell had quickly worn off.
Exhibit C
[image error]
Name: Nadine Morris
Physical Attributes: Long black hair. Trim Waist. Big t!ts.
What didn't work for him: High-pitched voice. Plus, something he learned --generous cleavage hardly makes up for intelligent conversation.
Exhibit D
[image error]
Name: Lily Cavalier
Physical Attributes: Bright blue eyes. Heart-shaped face. Thick brown hair. Perky personality.
What didn't work for him: More like a sister for him than a girlfriend. She's so innocent, he can't take advantage of her.
But his player days are over. Because of one girl. A nerd girl he fell for.
Meet Rosa McBride--
[image error]
Shy. Sweet. Innocent. His chemistry lab partner. At first, he didn't like her because she isn't his type. But after a while, the chemistry between them blossomed. Then, he was sure he was in love for the first time in his life.
But wait, she's immune to his charms.
“I’m not going to let myself fall for a jerk like you!”
UH-OH.
Will he get the woman of his dreams?
Will there be a happy ever after for them?
Stay Tuned.
WOAH WAIT!
You've been PUNK'D!
(Although, there is a lil bit of romance, a teeny tiny one.)
When Josh
“Joshua Hanover was a playing man.
To break innocent hearts was his plan.
He kissed the girls and made them cry
Now it’s time for Josh to die.”
Someone tried to poison him
Had his tires slashed
Got anonymous threats
and worse, someone turns up dead
Lies.
Suspicions.
Accusations.
Betrayal?
Friends to enemies.
Enemies to friends.
Alliances.
Unexpected twist.
Shocking Revelation.
Everybody is a suspect.
No one is safe.
Josh's friends?
His new lover?
Women scorned?
Brother of his ex?
Who the hell is it?
Will they catch the culprit?
Or will he/she get away with it?
Readers, hold on to your seats!!!
*Cue spooky music*
FREAKIN' A!!! I've been played. I thought this is a romance novel with a slight mystery in it, but I was wrong. It was the other way around. A thriller with a lil bit of romance on the side. But damn, I LOVED IT!
It seems like I'm watching an episode of Pretty Little Liars (which is one of my favorite shows) maybe because of the threats (notes. Ps. Love it because it rhymes. Brilliant. LOL) and maybe because I find it kind of creepy.
I love the whole mystery thing of the book. It keeps you guessing that's why it's unputdownable. I just went on and on and on 'cause I really like to know what'll hapen next. I actually had my suspicions on who orchestrated the whole thing, throughout the story, I kept on changing my suspect, I was like:
But, I didn't guess it right. Well,
When the culprit was revealed, my reaction was:
And to the suspect, my message for you:
I also really like all the characters in this book. But, sometimes, I think Josh is stupid
I also don't like the cover. Hihi. And, there are also some typos.
Yeah, I think that's about it.
So if you want some mystery/thriller read, READ THIS!
And if you've decided to read this, the culprit has a message for you. Cause finding him/her,
So, there. I'm shutting up now. I won't give anything away. So, just read it. WOKEI?
I'M OUTTA HERE! BYE!
HOT.
Rich.
Popular.
Captain of the Wrestling Team.
Meet Josh Hanover--
[image error]
He's Mr.Have-It-All.
He's so full of himself sometimes, the only one who gets him and who's always there for him is his best friend,
Andrea--
[image error]
She's not the only woman in his life.
He gets all the girl he likes, alright, but,he juggles four girls... at the same time.
Let's meet his GIRLFRIENDS , shall we?
Exhibit A
[image error]
Name: Elena Huber
Physical Attributes: Blonde bombshell. Queen of the in-crowd. 3S- Sexy. Stylish. Smart. Complete package.
What didn't work for him: Self-centered, annoying, snobby bitch.
Exhibit B
[image error]
Name: Jasmine "Jazz" Preston
Physical Attributes: Polar opposite of Elena. Goth. A girl who likes to push the limits of social acceptability.
What didn't work for him: Practices witchcraft. Josh swore she put a spell on him to make him so infatuated with her. If that was the case, the spell had quickly worn off.
Exhibit C
[image error]
Name: Nadine Morris
Physical Attributes: Long black hair. Trim Waist. Big t!ts.
What didn't work for him: High-pitched voice. Plus, something he learned --generous cleavage hardly makes up for intelligent conversation.
Exhibit D
[image error]
Name: Lily Cavalier
Physical Attributes: Bright blue eyes. Heart-shaped face. Thick brown hair. Perky personality.
What didn't work for him: More like a sister for him than a girlfriend. She's so innocent, he can't take advantage of her.
But his player days are over. Because of one girl. A nerd girl he fell for.
Meet Rosa McBride--
[image error]
Shy. Sweet. Innocent. His chemistry lab partner. At first, he didn't like her because she isn't his type. But after a while, the chemistry between them blossomed. Then, he was sure he was in love for the first time in his life.
But wait, she's immune to his charms.
“I’m not going to let myself fall for a jerk like you!”
UH-OH.
Will he get the woman of his dreams?
Will there be a happy ever after for them?
Stay Tuned.
WOAH WAIT!
You've been PUNK'D!
THIS IS NOT A ROMANCE NOVEL!
I REPEAT, THIS IS NOT A ROMANCE NOVEL!!!
(Although, there is a lil bit of romance, a teeny tiny one.)
When Josh
“Joshua Hanover was a playing man.
To break innocent hearts was his plan.
He kissed the girls and made them cry
Now it’s time for Josh to die.”
Someone tried to poison him
Had his tires slashed
Got anonymous threats
and worse, someone turns up dead
Lies.
Suspicions.
Accusations.
Betrayal?
Friends to enemies.
Enemies to friends.
Alliances.
Unexpected twist.
Shocking Revelation.
Everybody is a suspect.
No one is safe.
Josh's friends?
His new lover?
Women scorned?
Brother of his ex?
Who the hell is it?
Will they catch the culprit?
Or will he/she get away with it?
Readers, hold on to your seats!!!
*Cue spooky music*
FREAKIN' A!!! I've been played. I thought this is a romance novel with a slight mystery in it, but I was wrong. It was the other way around. A thriller with a lil bit of romance on the side. But damn, I LOVED IT!
It seems like I'm watching an episode of Pretty Little Liars (which is one of my favorite shows) maybe because of the threats (notes. Ps. Love it because it rhymes. Brilliant. LOL) and maybe because I find it kind of creepy.
I love the whole mystery thing of the book. It keeps you guessing that's why it's unputdownable. I just went on and on and on 'cause I really like to know what'll hapen next. I actually had my suspicions on who orchestrated the whole thing, throughout the story, I kept on changing my suspect, I was like:
But, I didn't guess it right. Well,
When the culprit was revealed, my reaction was:
And to the suspect, my message for you:
I also really like all the characters in this book. But, sometimes, I think Josh is stupid
I also don't like the cover. Hihi. And, there are also some typos.
Yeah, I think that's about it.
So if you want some mystery/thriller read, READ THIS!
And if you've decided to read this, the culprit has a message for you. Cause finding him/her,
So, there. I'm shutting up now. I won't give anything away. So, just read it. WOKEI?
I'M OUTTA HERE! BYE!
March 3, 2013
Well, it's true what they say don't judge to book by it's cover". I was alittle impress by the story, okay in the beginning, a senior from High School juggling 4 girlfriends, thinking he was a player. I get that, he finally decided it was over with all four girls. He finally felt true love with just one girl, that didn't have his characters of the ideal girl for him, but he love is blind. This book at the end was wow, who done it, very impressive. Okay I must admit, I didn't like the cover one bit, the grainy black and white like more of a decade old picture, but the story for told. Kudos to Ms. Deluca, again, impressive. Even though all his friend gave him their back and his parents thought that he did it, he was true to his words. But at the finally he knew how his parents felt and he knew there is only one friend that matters, even though in the beginning they were enemies.
February 2, 2013
OMFG!!!! Totally suspense. I can't believed it. They don't deserved to die in Andrea's hand. I feel sorry for her seriously, I feel bad for her wanting to have Joshua love and interest. For me Andrea's best girl friend ever had, supportive, very caring and to think they grew up together.
Elena girl wasn't that bad after all and to Kevin who knew this person has a strong love for her sister.
Thanks Laura Delaca you make my afternoon so intense and thrilling. I loved it. I wish there are more story for Rosa, Josh, Kevin and Elena.Jpb well done!!!!!
Elena girl wasn't that bad after all and to Kevin who knew this person has a strong love for her sister.
Thanks Laura Delaca you make my afternoon so intense and thrilling. I loved it. I wish there are more story for Rosa, Josh, Kevin and Elena.Jpb well done!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2013
I wasn't really looking forward to reading this book for one reason! It's written from only a male point of view! I've had such bad experiences with books from only a male point of view that I wasn't expecting to enjoy this one, but I actually did! I enjoyed this book being told from a male point of view and I didn't once want the point of view to change to a female or dual! I liked that the plot of this book wasn't really about a relationship! It was more about a mystery! I did think that it would focus on a relationship developing, but it actually didn't and instead it focused on a mystery! There were elements of a relationship developing, but not as much as I would have liked! The mystery part of the book was written brilliantly! I didn't know who to suspect as there were so many people and I really didn't think that the bad person was going to be who it was! I was quite surprised with how it all went down, but I loved it! The characters were great! Josh was the main character and I loved him telling the story! He was by the sounds of it really hot as he had so much girls after him, but I liked that he realised pretty early on that he didn't want loads of girls! He only wanted one girl! Josh was quite a sweet guy when he wanted to be and he was so nice to Rosa and I could tell that he had genuine feelings for her! I did start to feel sorry for Josh as the mystery started to heat up as he was the victim! He went through some pretty nasty things in this book and I felt so sorry for him at the end! Rosa was the main love interest of Josh and too be honest she wasn't really in this book a lot! I enjoyed her relationship development with Josh when they were together and I liked her as a character, but I would have loved her and Josh's relationship to have developed more than it did and for her to have been in the book a little more! I know this book focused more on a mystery, but I do love a bit of romance! There were quite a lot of other characters in this book as well and they all added so much to the mystery aspect! It could have been any one of them that was the bad person and I was completely torn as to who it could have been! I completely understand why this book is a standalone! Everything is resolved and the ending was very good! I enjoyed it! It summed up the whole story for me! The cover for this book actually suits it better than I thought it was going too! Because I've read it I can spot the little things that stand out! I love how well it suits the book and the guy on the front is pretty hot as well! Big thank you to Laura for a copy of Player and to Amber for having me on the Blog Tour!
February 11, 2013
Laura DeLuca has written a wonderful book that shares all kinds of crazy issues teens may run across. Player tells the story of Josh Hanover, the hot rich guy who seems to have everything. Josh is the typical "Player" with 4 girlfriends and is successfully juggling them all. But something or someone changes him. As often happens in life the right woman can totally change a man /boys life. Rosa is that smart attractive girl that has caught Josh's eye and his heart. Wow, someone caught the Player's heart. But that's just a bit of the story. Josh calls it off with the four girlfriends to pursue a relationship with Rosa. However, when he breaks it off crazy things begin to happen. Someone poisons him, one of the girls kills herself, then another ends up in a coma.Coincidence I don't think so. Not only does tragedy and drama happen and a lot of it but Josh begins getting notes . His parents think he is crying out for attention, the cops think he is a murder this player is in a world of mess. Lucky for him he has his best friend Andy by his side and also the lovely Rosa.
Definitely a page turner. Thanks for a great read Laura DeLuca!
I received a complimentary copy of Player for reviewing purposes. All opinions shared are my own.
Definitely a page turner. Thanks for a great read Laura DeLuca!
I received a complimentary copy of Player for reviewing purposes. All opinions shared are my own.
April 7, 2013
Josh Hanover is the perfect guy in a high school girl's mind. He's rich, athletic, popular, and gorgeous. But, he's a player. He has always taken girls for granted and played them along making them believe they meant more to him than they really did. At the start of this story Josh had four girl friends at the same time and never thought that any of them would find out about each other. He planned to ditch them all because he truly thought that he found the real deal in a very unlikely girl, Rosa, who was nothing like the other girls that he has dated in the past.
I will admit that initially I thought that this book was going to be a teen romance from the guy's point of view. It's anything but. While there is the teen romance factor in this story there is more to it. Josh's player days are over; however someone else is looking out for revenge. It starts when Josh is poisoned, and then his ex-girlfriend is murdered, and then another ex-girlfriend is attacked... and it continues to go on from there! This story has many twists and turns and just when you think you know who is responsible, something else happens to throw a wrench in your theory.
This was a great and quick read! I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I will admit that initially I thought that this book was going to be a teen romance from the guy's point of view. It's anything but. While there is the teen romance factor in this story there is more to it. Josh's player days are over; however someone else is looking out for revenge. It starts when Josh is poisoned, and then his ex-girlfriend is murdered, and then another ex-girlfriend is attacked... and it continues to go on from there! This story has many twists and turns and just when you think you know who is responsible, something else happens to throw a wrench in your theory.
This was a great and quick read! I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2013
I received this book in exchange for a honest and an unbiased review!~~~
Player by Laura Deluca
This is the 2nd book I have read by this author and let me tell you she has not dropped the ball or my attention. This book held me captive with twists, turns, and betrayals. It is a modern day clue for high schoolers! I was in shock and awe by the ending and a little heartbroken all the same. This book is suspenseful and dramatic. I highly enjoyed this fantastic read. It has left me so emotional at the end I cried. I love a book that can capture and ensnare you emotions like you are there in that moment with that character. I believe this is my favorite book that is author has written so far. I'm excited to see what other books this author can dish up.
Josh is known as the school player who juggles multiple girls at once. When one girl holds his attention and heart captive, Josh dumps the others and tries to start with a clean slate. When he starts to get sick and the girls that he dated start winding up dead, Josh has to find out who done it or the people he loves about will end up in the ground too. I give this an amazing 5 star!!! This is one I'm going to re-read several times.
Player by Laura Deluca
This is the 2nd book I have read by this author and let me tell you she has not dropped the ball or my attention. This book held me captive with twists, turns, and betrayals. It is a modern day clue for high schoolers! I was in shock and awe by the ending and a little heartbroken all the same. This book is suspenseful and dramatic. I highly enjoyed this fantastic read. It has left me so emotional at the end I cried. I love a book that can capture and ensnare you emotions like you are there in that moment with that character. I believe this is my favorite book that is author has written so far. I'm excited to see what other books this author can dish up.
Josh is known as the school player who juggles multiple girls at once. When one girl holds his attention and heart captive, Josh dumps the others and tries to start with a clean slate. When he starts to get sick and the girls that he dated start winding up dead, Josh has to find out who done it or the people he loves about will end up in the ground too. I give this an amazing 5 star!!! This is one I'm going to re-read several times.
April 6, 2013
This story starts out with a typical teen scenario. Josh, the cute popular boy who doesn't want to be tied down with just one girlfriend so he in fact has more than one. A recipe for disaster of course. What he doesn't see coming is he falls for Rosa, the nerdy girl who is certainly not impressed with his present heart breaking track record. Shortly after Josh finds himself caught up in a serial murder mystery which ironically involves him and along with friend Bryan, they play amateur sleuths in order to get to the bottom of it. An amazing twist of events that make this
teen story anything but typical.
Although a serial teen murder mystery sounds heavy it is a delightful read. I loved this story and was guessing constantly throughout. All the characters were interesting and held my attention. I enjoyed learning about them and how each contributed to the story. Josh is irresistible and won me over right away. I would highly recommend this book to any young adult reader.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
teen story anything but typical.
Although a serial teen murder mystery sounds heavy it is a delightful read. I loved this story and was guessing constantly throughout. All the characters were interesting and held my attention. I enjoyed learning about them and how each contributed to the story. Josh is irresistible and won me over right away. I would highly recommend this book to any young adult reader.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2012
I received a ARC copy of this book in exchange for a unbiased and honest review. I love the writing qualities that Laura DeLuca exhibits. I have read each and everyone of her books and through her creative journey she gives us more and more. She is really creative in the development of her characters giving them a three dimensional quality. When you look at the cover you might think this is the typical popular guy gets the girls but looks can be so deceiving. There are twists and turns around every corner. When you think you have it figured out Bam another twist is there. This book is full of drama and suspense I highly recommend it. I was unable to put down from beginning to end. I recommend reading her other books for a enjoyable reading night. I for one will be a follower for a long, long time.
February 8, 2013
Wow this book was crazy and awesome. I bet Josh will never be a player again.
When we begin the book Josh has 4 girlfriends but he realizes he is in love with his partner is class Rosa. So he decides to end it with Nadine, Jazz, Elena, and Lily. Lily takes it the best, Elena, Nadine and Jazz not so much.
Josh and his best friend Andrea get to school the next day and this Bryan guy is glaring at them and he later finds out Bryan is Lily's brother upset with him for breaking his sisters heart.
All of a sudden Josh is getting threatening notes and one of the girls turns up dead and the notes threaten him and the other girls. Josh and the last friend you expect uncover the mystery of who is sending the notes and hurting/ killing people.
I was shocked to find out who it was but the book held my attention the whole time. I loved it!!!!
When we begin the book Josh has 4 girlfriends but he realizes he is in love with his partner is class Rosa. So he decides to end it with Nadine, Jazz, Elena, and Lily. Lily takes it the best, Elena, Nadine and Jazz not so much.
Josh and his best friend Andrea get to school the next day and this Bryan guy is glaring at them and he later finds out Bryan is Lily's brother upset with him for breaking his sisters heart.
All of a sudden Josh is getting threatening notes and one of the girls turns up dead and the notes threaten him and the other girls. Josh and the last friend you expect uncover the mystery of who is sending the notes and hurting/ killing people.
I was shocked to find out who it was but the book held my attention the whole time. I loved it!!!!
Want to read
February 1, 2013 THAT BODY
I'm sorry Laura DeLuca, his body captured my attention first then your synopsis! GAHHH!
THIS IS A MUST READ!
ITS LIKE SEEING THIS
Four Rampage Ex-Girlfriends and Rosa
I'm sorry Laura DeLuca, his body captured my attention first then your synopsis! GAHHH!
THIS IS A MUST READ!
ITS LIKE SEEING THIS
Four Rampage Ex-Girlfriends and Rosa
December 29, 2012
MY REVIEW
Player tells the story of Josh Hanover, a high school senior who seems to have it all. He is good-looking, rich, loads of friends and all the ladies love him. Now this last attribute, Josh takes full advantage of; when the story opens, he is juggling four, count them four girlfriends. Now, Josh is slightly callous at the story start, really taking on relationships for superficial reasons, almost acquiring a collection, he has the Glam girl, the Goth and more. But soon this changes as Josh realizes his feelings for his Biology partner, Rosa. Rosa is smart, and not very glamorous at all, but in her, there are qualities, that Josh does not realize he is searching for, and he begins to change. Josh, soon goes about ending all the relationships with the others, although in a harsh way. He does it, hoping to make way for a new start with Rosa. During all of this, his best friend Andrea is there, she has been his best friend since they were small in grade school, just friends, she has been the constant through his ever-changing array of girlfriends. After a bumpy start, Josh and Rosa soon get together, now during all of this, Josh is having migraines, which he has always had. Against the advice of his best friend Andrea, he continues taking Codeine, almost like candy to stop the sickening streaks of pain, that plagues him constantly. The fact that both his parents are doctors, allows Josh to have a steady supply, and coupled with the fact, his parents are workaholics, working double shifts and always away from him. Josh pretty much does what he wants. The story progresses, that soon after he breaks of with the other girls, and of course the break-ups do not go well, there is lots of screaming and threatening from at least three of them. But the worse for Josh is Lilly, the Catholic School girl, who quietly accepts and desires to remain friends. That is the only time Josh, feels a little bothered, but it soon passes, and he and Rosa goes on. Not too much later, Lilly the quiet Catholic School girl is found dead, it is labeled suicide. but her brother, who had not too long after the break up had threatened Josh, is saying that his sister had been murdered. The brother, desires to enlist Josh’s help, basically saying this was Josh’s fault, and this would be one way of making amends. Josh is at first reluctant, but agrees, because prior to that Josh had begun receiving strange, lyrical messages, detailing the scary events that were happening to Josh, one event was that Josh had to be hospitalized because someone had placed rat poison in his migraine medicine. He recovered, but he knew someone was out to get him. The boys continue to investigate, but during that time, another one of Josh’s recent ex-girlfriends had been attacked, and landed in the hospital. The boys continue trying to find the murderer when police refuse to help, they both know they are racing against time. Soon the Player erupts with a surprise ending, that leaves the reader shocked.
Laura Deluca is an incredible writer. I have read several of her books, in different genres, but never am I disappointed. The Player, had me guessing right from the beginning, the atmosphere was thick with suspense from the start. I was nervous about what would happen, because I knew something bad was hanging around. No one could be as callous as Josh, and get away un-scathe. I thought I knew what was happening mid way through, but Ms. Deluca threw in twist and turns all the way to the very end. I felt as if I was on one of those very frightening Amusement park rides. Up and down, through the scary tunnels, Ms. Deluca takes you. Aways well written , fantastic minute description, Player is an absolute thrill fest!
Player tells the story of Josh Hanover, a high school senior who seems to have it all. He is good-looking, rich, loads of friends and all the ladies love him. Now this last attribute, Josh takes full advantage of; when the story opens, he is juggling four, count them four girlfriends. Now, Josh is slightly callous at the story start, really taking on relationships for superficial reasons, almost acquiring a collection, he has the Glam girl, the Goth and more. But soon this changes as Josh realizes his feelings for his Biology partner, Rosa. Rosa is smart, and not very glamorous at all, but in her, there are qualities, that Josh does not realize he is searching for, and he begins to change. Josh, soon goes about ending all the relationships with the others, although in a harsh way. He does it, hoping to make way for a new start with Rosa. During all of this, his best friend Andrea is there, she has been his best friend since they were small in grade school, just friends, she has been the constant through his ever-changing array of girlfriends. After a bumpy start, Josh and Rosa soon get together, now during all of this, Josh is having migraines, which he has always had. Against the advice of his best friend Andrea, he continues taking Codeine, almost like candy to stop the sickening streaks of pain, that plagues him constantly. The fact that both his parents are doctors, allows Josh to have a steady supply, and coupled with the fact, his parents are workaholics, working double shifts and always away from him. Josh pretty much does what he wants. The story progresses, that soon after he breaks of with the other girls, and of course the break-ups do not go well, there is lots of screaming and threatening from at least three of them. But the worse for Josh is Lilly, the Catholic School girl, who quietly accepts and desires to remain friends. That is the only time Josh, feels a little bothered, but it soon passes, and he and Rosa goes on. Not too much later, Lilly the quiet Catholic School girl is found dead, it is labeled suicide. but her brother, who had not too long after the break up had threatened Josh, is saying that his sister had been murdered. The brother, desires to enlist Josh’s help, basically saying this was Josh’s fault, and this would be one way of making amends. Josh is at first reluctant, but agrees, because prior to that Josh had begun receiving strange, lyrical messages, detailing the scary events that were happening to Josh, one event was that Josh had to be hospitalized because someone had placed rat poison in his migraine medicine. He recovered, but he knew someone was out to get him. The boys continue to investigate, but during that time, another one of Josh’s recent ex-girlfriends had been attacked, and landed in the hospital. The boys continue trying to find the murderer when police refuse to help, they both know they are racing against time. Soon the Player erupts with a surprise ending, that leaves the reader shocked.
Laura Deluca is an incredible writer. I have read several of her books, in different genres, but never am I disappointed. The Player, had me guessing right from the beginning, the atmosphere was thick with suspense from the start. I was nervous about what would happen, because I knew something bad was hanging around. No one could be as callous as Josh, and get away un-scathe. I thought I knew what was happening mid way through, but Ms. Deluca threw in twist and turns all the way to the very end. I felt as if I was on one of those very frightening Amusement park rides. Up and down, through the scary tunnels, Ms. Deluca takes you. Aways well written , fantastic minute description, Player is an absolute thrill fest!
March 4, 2013
For an excerpt and more view original post here
What i thought:
(+)
- I don’t want to talk about the ending too much to avoid spoilers but lets just say i was surprised by the turn of events. It wasn’t predictable (even though i thought i had figured out who had done it but alas i was wrong) which is a huge plus.
- I really enjoyed the poems/letters Josh received from the murderer
- Overall good, i’d recommend it for an easy enjoyable read.
(-)
- there were some typos and missing articles
- Some of the characters i felt were not reacting realistically at certain situations and were a bit stereotyped. The characters with which i had a main problem were: Josh’s parents and detective Gibula
- I also had a problem with Rosa, but it was more of a personality problem rather than a character problem. She was always so shy and always looking down at her sneakers or the floor. I just wish she was more tough or had more spunk.
- I’d also like to see Josh and Rosa’s relationship unravel from the beginning. For example, i’d like to see them when they were first paired as lab partners and didn’t really like each other that much, i think it would help the characters and the romance develop. I just felt like the romance was moving too fast and was a bit forced, but then again, the main focus of the story is the mystery behind the killings rather than their individual relationships.
Additional Notes:
- (*kind of spoiler alert*)Something that i didn’t get in the book is why, if Lily’s death was thought to be a suicide, did she have a service in the church? My family is Orthodox so i don’t know if this is different in the Catholic Church, but in the Orthodox Church individuals who commit suicide supposedly don’t deserve a service because they died committing sin by taking their lives away, which was God’s gift to them.
What i thought:
(+)
- I don’t want to talk about the ending too much to avoid spoilers but lets just say i was surprised by the turn of events. It wasn’t predictable (even though i thought i had figured out who had done it but alas i was wrong) which is a huge plus.
- I really enjoyed the poems/letters Josh received from the murderer
- Overall good, i’d recommend it for an easy enjoyable read.
(-)
- there were some typos and missing articles
- Some of the characters i felt were not reacting realistically at certain situations and were a bit stereotyped. The characters with which i had a main problem were: Josh’s parents and detective Gibula
- I also had a problem with Rosa, but it was more of a personality problem rather than a character problem. She was always so shy and always looking down at her sneakers or the floor. I just wish she was more tough or had more spunk.
- I’d also like to see Josh and Rosa’s relationship unravel from the beginning. For example, i’d like to see them when they were first paired as lab partners and didn’t really like each other that much, i think it would help the characters and the romance develop. I just felt like the romance was moving too fast and was a bit forced, but then again, the main focus of the story is the mystery behind the killings rather than their individual relationships.
Additional Notes:
- (*kind of spoiler alert*)Something that i didn’t get in the book is why, if Lily’s death was thought to be a suicide, did she have a service in the church? My family is Orthodox so i don’t know if this is different in the Catholic Church, but in the Orthodox Church individuals who commit suicide supposedly don’t deserve a service because they died committing sin by taking their lives away, which was God’s gift to them.
August 29, 2013
Joshua has never cared who he hurt. He likes girls and has no problem playing the field sometimes with more than one girl. That changes when he falls in love with his lab partner Rosa. He wants to get rid of all his girlfriends and go after Rosa and be with Rosa only.Rosa isn't sure about dating Josh but when they begin dating she doesn't only have to worry about her heart but has to worry it seems someone is after Josh. He has four mad girls he has just dumped. Someone has slashed Josh's tires is leaving him notes and now one of his exes has ended up dead. Being a player has come back to hurt him. He has to figure out who is after him.
Josh at first I didn't think I would like. After all he is dating four girls at once. The more I read about him I started to like him a little. Rosa seemed good for him. Josh really has only had his best friend Andrea be there for him always. His parents work all the time and his dad really pushes him to be perfect. I think Josh is the type of guy who seems to have it all but you don't know what he has going on in his life. Rosa is the sweet, nerdy type girl who grew up poor. She has a different life from Josh. I love how she tries to see the best in some people and is easy to forgive people. There is a whole cast of other characters that all add their part to this great book.
This book really surprised me as I kept reading. I had to figure out who it was and I was wrong a few times about who I guessed it was. You get a little bit of love, friendship, murder, mystery and so much more in this book. You won't want to put it down. I love how several characters including Josh make a turn around in their personality and really change and grow in this book. I really got a feel for them as I read about all of them. I will say the ending surprised me and I didn't see some of it coming. This is an excellent book I would tell anyone wanting something different to read.
Josh at first I didn't think I would like. After all he is dating four girls at once. The more I read about him I started to like him a little. Rosa seemed good for him. Josh really has only had his best friend Andrea be there for him always. His parents work all the time and his dad really pushes him to be perfect. I think Josh is the type of guy who seems to have it all but you don't know what he has going on in his life. Rosa is the sweet, nerdy type girl who grew up poor. She has a different life from Josh. I love how she tries to see the best in some people and is easy to forgive people. There is a whole cast of other characters that all add their part to this great book.
This book really surprised me as I kept reading. I had to figure out who it was and I was wrong a few times about who I guessed it was. You get a little bit of love, friendship, murder, mystery and so much more in this book. You won't want to put it down. I love how several characters including Josh make a turn around in their personality and really change and grow in this book. I really got a feel for them as I read about all of them. I will say the ending surprised me and I didn't see some of it coming. This is an excellent book I would tell anyone wanting something different to read.
December 31, 2015
I have read this authors Dark Musicals series and absolutely loved them. While reading them they reminded me very much of the Scream films, another series I absolutely loved!
I was interested to read Player as it was the first book by this author I had read after the DM series. And I can honestly say I was not disappointed.
Joshua is the Player from the title. He is a young good looking guy, has money and has the girls chasing him. Not wanting to settle for just one girl he has 4 on the go at the start of the story.
But it seems Joshua has decided he wants to be a one woman man after all. Since being partnered up with Rosa in Biology class he has developed feelings for her, something which he hasn't experienced before. As scary as the thought of being with just one woman is, he decides to go for it.
He sets about dumping the other girls, but along the way he manages to seriously upset a lot more people.
Up to a certain point this story appeared to be a simple romance story, but pretty soon it turned into something far more, something I recognised from this author. It becomes a murder, mystery, whodunit story which quickly captured my imagination and had me trying to figure out the culprit.
The author has once again written a story which drew me in quickly. When starting this book I was in bed and only intended reading a little, but I ended up reading the whole thing in about an hour or so as I was desperate to find out who the culprit was!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good murder mystery/romance. You should also pick up the Dark Musicals books too.
I was interested to read Player as it was the first book by this author I had read after the DM series. And I can honestly say I was not disappointed.
Joshua is the Player from the title. He is a young good looking guy, has money and has the girls chasing him. Not wanting to settle for just one girl he has 4 on the go at the start of the story.
But it seems Joshua has decided he wants to be a one woman man after all. Since being partnered up with Rosa in Biology class he has developed feelings for her, something which he hasn't experienced before. As scary as the thought of being with just one woman is, he decides to go for it.
He sets about dumping the other girls, but along the way he manages to seriously upset a lot more people.
Up to a certain point this story appeared to be a simple romance story, but pretty soon it turned into something far more, something I recognised from this author. It becomes a murder, mystery, whodunit story which quickly captured my imagination and had me trying to figure out the culprit.
The author has once again written a story which drew me in quickly. When starting this book I was in bed and only intended reading a little, but I ended up reading the whole thing in about an hour or so as I was desperate to find out who the culprit was!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes a good murder mystery/romance. You should also pick up the Dark Musicals books too.
August 28, 2013
3.5 Stars
I received this book free for the author in exchange for an honest review.
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book (I may have judged it by the cover), but having read two of the three book in her Dark Musicals trilogy I decided to give it a try. It was a pretty good story, there was a lot going one to make the mystery. I did guess who was the "bad guy" about halfway into the book, but obviously I had to read it to make sure I was right haha, I was. I did get tripped up once with wording and changed my mind, but quickly realized I was right the first time. This novel is classified under romance but I disagree, it's definitely more mystery/ thriller. There wasn't very much romance to it at all. About as much as you would expect from a teenage player lol. I did find the plot similar to Laura DeLuca's Dark Musicals trilogy.
The characters were good, I just wished that they had been more developed. I felt like I didn't really know anything about them .also I would have liked to get to know more about the past relationships between the characters.like I said earlier I had guessed who the villain was but I liked watching them act innocent and I liked watching the mystery unfold. I really want to read more about the characters after the book ended. Maybe a spin- off lol.
This book was pretty good. If you have read Laura DeLuca books before you will notice the similaries and notice that this is her signature genre/ category. The characters were interesting but the plot was a bit predictable. I would recommend this book to mystery/ thriller lovers.
I received this book free for the author in exchange for an honest review.
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book (I may have judged it by the cover), but having read two of the three book in her Dark Musicals trilogy I decided to give it a try. It was a pretty good story, there was a lot going one to make the mystery. I did guess who was the "bad guy" about halfway into the book, but obviously I had to read it to make sure I was right haha, I was. I did get tripped up once with wording and changed my mind, but quickly realized I was right the first time. This novel is classified under romance but I disagree, it's definitely more mystery/ thriller. There wasn't very much romance to it at all. About as much as you would expect from a teenage player lol. I did find the plot similar to Laura DeLuca's Dark Musicals trilogy.
The characters were good, I just wished that they had been more developed. I felt like I didn't really know anything about them .also I would have liked to get to know more about the past relationships between the characters.like I said earlier I had guessed who the villain was but I liked watching them act innocent and I liked watching the mystery unfold. I really want to read more about the characters after the book ended. Maybe a spin- off lol.
This book was pretty good. If you have read Laura DeLuca books before you will notice the similaries and notice that this is her signature genre/ category. The characters were interesting but the plot was a bit predictable. I would recommend this book to mystery/ thriller lovers.
August 21, 2013
I was a bit surprised at how well the mystery was kept within these pages. Normally when I read a book like this, I am able to figure out who the "bad guy" is pretty quickly, but this book kept me on my toes and questioned my beliefs on who the killer was until the very last pages. I never saw what was coming!
Josh is a well developed character, and I had a great time reading through his eyes. I wish there was a little bit more about the romance with Rosa, but I can see why that wasn't on the front burner considering how all of his exes were dealing with tragic accidents. I just didn't feel like I was able to create a very lasting connection to Rosa, but all the same.. The book was great!
It was interesting for me to read as if I were a teenage boy. I rarely read books where the protagonist is a male, so it was a nice switch up for me.
If you like a mysterious YA, this is definitely a book you would enjoy!
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book for honest review.
Josh is a well developed character, and I had a great time reading through his eyes. I wish there was a little bit more about the romance with Rosa, but I can see why that wasn't on the front burner considering how all of his exes were dealing with tragic accidents. I just didn't feel like I was able to create a very lasting connection to Rosa, but all the same.. The book was great!
It was interesting for me to read as if I were a teenage boy. I rarely read books where the protagonist is a male, so it was a nice switch up for me.
If you like a mysterious YA, this is definitely a book you would enjoy!
Note: I received a complimentary copy of this book for honest review.
August 19, 2015
*Since I did the editing on this work, I cannot speak of any errors I may have or may not have found*
Player follows Josh, captain of the high school wrestling team, pretty popular guy, and world-class player.
This book is a bit different from the others I've read and edited for Laura. There's no Pagan elements in at all. But it's still a really good read and fans won't be disappointed.
Player will have the reader on the edge of their seats turning each page with nail-biting anticipation to see what happens next. While some will figure out who our "star" is early on, the events that follow the big "reveal" will still cause an array of emotions for the reader.
I enjoyed this book, as I do with all Laura's work and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys YA (even if there is mild language in it), and those who love a good murder thriller.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws.
Player follows Josh, captain of the high school wrestling team, pretty popular guy, and world-class player.
This book is a bit different from the others I've read and edited for Laura. There's no Pagan elements in at all. But it's still a really good read and fans won't be disappointed.
Player will have the reader on the edge of their seats turning each page with nail-biting anticipation to see what happens next. While some will figure out who our "star" is early on, the events that follow the big "reveal" will still cause an array of emotions for the reader.
I enjoyed this book, as I do with all Laura's work and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys YA (even if there is mild language in it), and those who love a good murder thriller.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws.
February 8, 2013
Rosa is a really sweet girl, and I like how when she needs them she allows her claws to come out. I admire that about her, "You assume an awful lot, don't you Josh? You assume every girl wants you. You assume you're irresistible to women. Well this time you assumed wrong. I don't want anything to do with you. So just get over yourself." When she cares about someone she cares passionately, "That's easy for you to say," Rosa complained. "You were unconscious half the time. I was the one who had to worry that you were going to die in my arms. And that you would think that I...that I..." Rosa stopped in mid-sentence and stared at her shoes." I know the story was about Josh but out of anyone Rosa stood out more, she was the strong character and hard to forget. The pot was interesting, but I felt like it was something I've read before.
August 25, 2013
I love Laura DeLuca and her work its always full of suspense and keeps you wanting more. Once you get into any of her books, you just cant stop or get enough. Player is a little different from her other works. The "Player" in this case is Joshua. He's gone through more girl friends than you can imagine and he never really thought about the consequence's or their feelings. He's also never been serious with any of them. So when he drops all his girlfriends for one girl and decides she is the one, everyone soon finds out how much of a player Josh really is. Only now there is an investigation going on that includes Josh's ex's and him. Josh is not about to sit back while people he starts to care for is being threatened and turning up dead, he plans to find out who is being the killings one way or another. Even if that means is own life.
May 13, 2013
Talk about twisted love and ultimate betrayal, The Player was not what I was expecting.
Josh is a player who is getting tired of the game. He finds it in himself to break it off with all of his girls when he sets his eyes on one girl only, Rosa. But when he starts to get notes in his locker and tragedy strikes more than once, will he find himself playing someone else's game? Read The Player to find out!
Laura did an outstanding job with this suspense. The storyline was well thought out and the characters were very well written. The story is full of action, drama, suspense, who-did-what and a huge "I should have seen that coming" type ending. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
Josh is a player who is getting tired of the game. He finds it in himself to break it off with all of his girls when he sets his eyes on one girl only, Rosa. But when he starts to get notes in his locker and tragedy strikes more than once, will he find himself playing someone else's game? Read The Player to find out!
Laura did an outstanding job with this suspense. The storyline was well thought out and the characters were very well written. The story is full of action, drama, suspense, who-did-what and a huge "I should have seen that coming" type ending. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
August 20, 2013
Player by Laura DeLuca is a YA contemporary romance thriller. It follows Josh, a popular high school boy, who is a total player until he meets Rosa and falls for her. But this isn't a typical popular guy falls in love with the nerdy girl. Instead it has a huge twist with poisoning and murders.
I really enjoyed this story and all the plot twists. It kept me interested and is a real page-turner. It was also well-written and edited which is always a plus. The characters were likeable and relatable. They reminded me of normal teenagers...but they were dealing with things normal teenagers don't normally deal with.
I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it to fans of romantic thrillers.
I really enjoyed this story and all the plot twists. It kept me interested and is a real page-turner. It was also well-written and edited which is always a plus. The characters were likeable and relatable. They reminded me of normal teenagers...but they were dealing with things normal teenagers don't normally deal with.
I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it to fans of romantic thrillers.
February 15, 2013
Josh has four girlfriends and doesn't really care about a single one of them. Rosa is the geek tutoring Josh, and he's secretly in love with her. He breaks up with the girlfriends but in a twist of events, he becomes the number one suspect when things start happening to them. It's not your typical high school romance and it's certainly not your typical mystery. Laura had me guessing to the end as to who could've been behind the accidents.
Laura doesn't disappoint. She builds characters that you can really love and root for along with those that you just really love to despise. Her best talent is to keep you guessing and trying to figure out the ending which will blindside you completely!
Laura doesn't disappoint. She builds characters that you can really love and root for along with those that you just really love to despise. Her best talent is to keep you guessing and trying to figure out the ending which will blindside you completely!
March 25, 2013
I Was Provided A Review Copy Of The Book, "Player" By Author Laura DeLuca in Exchange for my Honest Review. The Book Player is And Excellent Book that is Very Exciting and Interesting To Read. There is Never A Dull Moment While Reading The Book, "Player" it has Quick and Constant Draws of Action, that Keep The Reader Happy. The Book "Player" is About A High School Student, Josh Hanover, That Has Had Lots of Girlfriends In His Life, and, the Troubles that Come With This Behavior. The Ending Of The Book, "Player" Has Lots of Suspense and Drama. I Give The Book Five Stars It Is Very Well Worth Reading. Thank you, Jerri Davis
December 27, 2014
Oh my glob this is an epic one! I'm not even surprised that I've finished it for just a few hours because this book is a serious page-turner.
This one reminds me of final destination and detective conan. Just plain epicness!
Ever wonder how love can make a person crazy? How it can make a person kill for someone they love? Yea and this book will answer that question and not some cheesey YA book. At first I thought that this one is like all the other NA booms that I've read with all the romantic stuffs in it. But no. No it's not. Don't let the summary fool you.
A++++
This one reminds me of final destination and detective conan. Just plain epicness!
Ever wonder how love can make a person crazy? How it can make a person kill for someone they love? Yea and this book will answer that question and not some cheesey YA book. At first I thought that this one is like all the other NA booms that I've read with all the romantic stuffs in it. But no. No it's not. Don't let the summary fool you.
A++++
April 24, 2013
I will admit that initially I thought that this book was going to be a teen romance from the guy's point of view. It's anything but. While there is the teen romance factor in this story there is more to it. Josh's player days are over; however someone else is looking out for revenge. It starts when Josh is poisoned, and then his ex-girlfriend is murdered, and then another ex-girlfriend is attacked... and it continues to go on from there! This story has many twists and turns and just when you think you know who is responsible, something else happens to throw a wrench in your theory.
December 16, 2012
This is one terrific thriller. All the characters were realistic and easy to relate to. There is lots of action but romance too. The ending was a real nail biter. I never saw it coming. I totally love that hot guy on the cover. He fits the main character perfectly and brought the story to life for me even more.
March 11, 2013
This was my first book by this author and it was a great book. It kept me on my toes and had me so antsy I wanted to skip to the end to find out what happened and then go back to reading where I was at. I love romance and thriller and this book was the best of both worlds. I enjoyed this book very much.
August 20, 2013
Laura DeLuca has a way of pulling you in and making you think you know what's going on then you'll catch your self wanting to yell PLOT TWIST around every corner. and I never was able to guess who the killer was. Player is not your typical guy and girl fall in love type read it's a perfect mix of romance and mystery.
November 18, 2013
“Player” is basically a teen romance fiction, but with more to offer in the way of a whodunit suspense mystery. Premise is surprisingly good and the plot points believable, and the whole story played out nicely, which kept my attention until the end. Unfortunately, the writing did not match the concept and ideas presented in the book. Otherwise, “Player” would have deserved 5 stars!
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