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Play Me
I’m a lot.
I know I am.
And when our record label dropped my band from our contract, I knew I’d gone too far.
I’m out of control and in order to redeem myself, I’m forced to spend a week in the back of beyond, protecting the label’s ‘golden girl’.
But Fern Richard’s isn’t the princess I thought she was.
She needed me more than I knew.
And while I protected her, everything changed.
She locked up my crazy in a cage. She plugged my pain. She took control of my pleasure.
My princess became a warrior, and she helped me heal from my secret shame.
We fell in love, despite me believing I was unlovable.
Then one sentence changed everything.
She played me.
She broke us.
But now I need protecting and the question is, will she fight for me?
I know I am.
And when our record label dropped my band from our contract, I knew I’d gone too far.
I’m out of control and in order to redeem myself, I’m forced to spend a week in the back of beyond, protecting the label’s ‘golden girl’.
But Fern Richard’s isn’t the princess I thought she was.
She needed me more than I knew.
And while I protected her, everything changed.
She locked up my crazy in a cage. She plugged my pain. She took control of my pleasure.
My princess became a warrior, and she helped me heal from my secret shame.
We fell in love, despite me believing I was unlovable.
Then one sentence changed everything.
She played me.
She broke us.
But now I need protecting and the question is, will she fight for me?
519 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 25, 2024
13 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Esme Taylor
15 books95 followersEsme is a 40 something romance author from the North East of England. She started writing romance during lockdown and developed a love of crafting stories about tattooed broken boys and the relationships that help them heal. Esme writes all sorts of tropes, but one theme runs through her books - love comes in all shapes and sizes and her stories celebrate that.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
January 23, 2024
I received this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Being honest, slightly longer arc books normally scare me as I have struggled to get through a few in the past. This was not the case with Play Me by Esme Taylor.
I cried, laughed and loved throughout this story and I honestly wish I could read it for the first time all over again. The quality of writing was amazing, characterisation was brilliant and I highly recommend this to anyone who likes an enemies to lovers. I will however make you aware that there are trigger warnings such as stalking and R*pe so please check these out before deciding if this is for you.
I will be going on the hunt for more of Esme Taylor’s books as this one was one of my favourites over the last few years.
Being honest, slightly longer arc books normally scare me as I have struggled to get through a few in the past. This was not the case with Play Me by Esme Taylor.
I cried, laughed and loved throughout this story and I honestly wish I could read it for the first time all over again. The quality of writing was amazing, characterisation was brilliant and I highly recommend this to anyone who likes an enemies to lovers. I will however make you aware that there are trigger warnings such as stalking and R*pe so please check these out before deciding if this is for you.
I will be going on the hunt for more of Esme Taylor’s books as this one was one of my favourites over the last few years.
February 1, 2024
Favourite of the Series!
Esme Taylor is a definite one click author for me. I can’t read enough of her broken rock stars and I hope she writes them forever. Play Me was everything I expect from this author and more. I loved the darkness of the book - how she didn’t shy away from having her characters live through hard, difficult and traumatic events and I loved watching how her characters triumphed through these things. I loved the kink that was threaded throughout the book and how these characters created their own version of it and that the author didn’t feel the need to follow the standard. I loved how Charlie was both a dominant alpha but was able to open up, become vulnerable and allow for the power of submission. I loved who Fern owned her power and brought it so fiercely. I loved it all! I truly recommend reading this and trying this author out if you haven’t done so before. I promise she will become a 1 click author for you as well.
Esme Taylor is a definite one click author for me. I can’t read enough of her broken rock stars and I hope she writes them forever. Play Me was everything I expect from this author and more. I loved the darkness of the book - how she didn’t shy away from having her characters live through hard, difficult and traumatic events and I loved watching how her characters triumphed through these things. I loved the kink that was threaded throughout the book and how these characters created their own version of it and that the author didn’t feel the need to follow the standard. I loved how Charlie was both a dominant alpha but was able to open up, become vulnerable and allow for the power of submission. I loved who Fern owned her power and brought it so fiercely. I loved it all! I truly recommend reading this and trying this author out if you haven’t done so before. I promise she will become a 1 click author for you as well.
February 11, 2024
What starts off as a fake relationship between Charlie and Fern, slowly takes some twists and turns as they spend more time together. There are so many plot twists and turns in this book and some serious spice - with Fern taking over as Alpha! Though Charlie is a tough rockstar, he does have a soft side too, that only Fern sees. But when Fern’s ex crosses the boundary and she pushes Charlie away the reader is taken through some heartfelt emotions anxiously reading to find out where Charlie and Fern end up.
March 1, 2024
This started off with Fern at 17 years old. She was living at her parents home and she was dating a guy James who was 10 years older. He was about to make partner at a law firm. He told her they had to keep their relationship quiet and she did for 2 years. Her parents had a party one night to celebrate her sister’s birthday and that was the night everything changed for her. She moved out and she got a job at a record label. Around Christmas time her mum called her boss and wanted her to come home for a week. He told her that she would be there without talking to her first. She didn’t tell anyone why she didn’t want to go home. So she ended up telling them why she didn’t want to go. One of the bands was making a lot of bad press lately so they were going to get dropped from the label unless Charlie went with her to look out for her. They went and one night something happened and Charlie stopped it. They left that next morning. Charlie called someone and made arrangements for security and got them out of there. They spent the whole week together and got to know each other. They opened up to each other. This is a must read if you can handle the darker side of things. I loved it.
February 6, 2024
Play Me
Oh my lord. This book. first off, she is THICC but it’s so freaking good I read it in one sitting! 🫨 before reading please check out TW as it gets dark in some places. 🖤🖤
A fake relationship, friend to lover, to exploring kinks with each other. 😍😍 this book was not at all what I was expecting but I loved every minute! I can’t wait to read more from Esme!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
TW: 🖤🖤🖤
Oh my lord. This book. first off, she is THICC but it’s so freaking good I read it in one sitting! 🫨 before reading please check out TW as it gets dark in some places. 🖤🖤
A fake relationship, friend to lover, to exploring kinks with each other. 😍😍 this book was not at all what I was expecting but I loved every minute! I can’t wait to read more from Esme!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
TW: 🖤🖤🖤
January 14, 2024
Where to start?! Both Charlie and Fern are so broken but boy together they are everything!
The love and care they eventually showed eachother was beautiful. As per with an Esme book a few plot twists chucked in for measure. And if tugged on the heart strings! I loved this story and loved seeing the rest of the gang in this world that Esme has created. A great read
The love and care they eventually showed eachother was beautiful. As per with an Esme book a few plot twists chucked in for measure. And if tugged on the heart strings! I loved this story and loved seeing the rest of the gang in this world that Esme has created. A great read
January 26, 2024
Princess & Myth Maker are PERFECTION 💓
When I saw male ch@sity 🔐 in the description I knew I HAD to read this! Esme killed this soft femdom with these two characters healing their trauma through the process of exploring their kink. Simply beautiful 🫠
If your looking for a reformed playboy/misunderstood rockstar and the music labels golden girl helping one another heal while falling in the most beautiful love, then look no further- Charlie & Fern are IT💋
When I saw male ch@sity 🔐 in the description I knew I HAD to read this! Esme killed this soft femdom with these two characters healing their trauma through the process of exploring their kink. Simply beautiful 🫠
If your looking for a reformed playboy/misunderstood rockstar and the music labels golden girl helping one another heal while falling in the most beautiful love, then look no further- Charlie & Fern are IT💋
February 23, 2024
This was the first book I’ve read by this author and it certainly won’t be the last! I absolutely loved this book, it made me laugh, it made me cry but most of all it made me believe in love. I loved Fern & Charlie’s relationship it is epic and while it starts out unconventionally I loved how they were both there for each other to support and learn to open their hearts to love. There was a few moments where I cried but especially when Neo struggled with his pain and as someone who struggles with a chronic pain condition it really connected with me and I couldn’t see my thoughts in his, I’ve never been so glad for how that turned out! This book is epic and I can’t wait to dive into more by the author.
January 25, 2024
Holy hell I did not know how much I needed that book. Esme Taylor is definitely my discovery of 2024 after reading almost all of her books in the matter of 2 weeks I can confidently say I am obsessed. Charlie and Fern’s story is no exception. Sharing similarities with them made this book particularly touching for me. I loved seeing both of them coming into their own and reclaiming their power. Powerful is the word I would use to describe this book.
February 2, 2024
WOW! This is really a great book. I enjoyed reading it. This is a story of a rock band and the lead singer Charlie, and there PR person Fern. These two people are thrown together and then they start having feelings for one another. They are both broken with secrets from there past. The book is somewhat long but it needed to be to get all of the feelings and the emotions out. I loved this one.
January 18, 2024
I adore Esme Taylor's writing and all the many ways she emotionally destroys me with her broken characters. This one especially had me clutching my imaginary pearls shouting "you can't do this to me" in places.
If you are looking for a rockstar romance with heart, forced proximity that will have you swooning and Esme's trademark "I'll break you but i'll fix you" then you need to read this.
The journey that these two characters go on recovering from their trauma is beautifully done and had me devouring the book. The central theme of healing from trauma through kink is handled phenomenally well and never feels like it's sensationalising it. They explore what they need to grow into themselves.
Also if you haven't already read her Broken Boys or Cosmic Gods series I thoroughly recommend them. (Please note however the Gray in Twisted God is mine. <3)
If you are looking for a rockstar romance with heart, forced proximity that will have you swooning and Esme's trademark "I'll break you but i'll fix you" then you need to read this.
The journey that these two characters go on recovering from their trauma is beautifully done and had me devouring the book. The central theme of healing from trauma through kink is handled phenomenally well and never feels like it's sensationalising it. They explore what they need to grow into themselves.
Also if you haven't already read her Broken Boys or Cosmic Gods series I thoroughly recommend them. (Please note however the Gray in Twisted God is mine. <3)
February 2, 2024
“…he made me feel like my body was on fire and I wanted to dance in the embers forevermore.”
OMG! This story was EVERYTHING!!! I was captivated right from the start and couldn’t get over how emotionally invested I became with this story and its phenomenal characters. That beginning had me reeling with anger and throughout I found myself feeling such hatred for what transpires right before my eyes.
Fern is an incredible, fierce, strong and badass woman. She has survived a harsh upbringing and horrible trauma from a man she thought she loved. She has such amazing determination and resiliency which has allowed her to become a powerful woman in her own way.
Charlie is a broken man carrying around so many demons with him everyday. He tries to drown out those demons with alcohol, drugs and women, but nothing can heal him. When he is forced to help Fern, he doesn’t realize that she is exactly what he needs to heal his heart and soul. She is the light to his darkness.
The banter between Fern and Charlie was filled with hilarious teasing, sarcasm, little quips and some heated and flirty moments. Their first kiss, all the little touches and the intensity building between them had my body aching like crazy!!! But the sexy moments between them had heart racing, my knees shaking and my panties melting. And all the edging – OMG THAT WAS HOT!!!! It was so freaking delicious, and I could not get enough of these two together.
This story was just so good. I devoured every emotional and deliciously spicy moment of it and found myself laughing throughout, crying continually and falling hopelessly in love with Charlie and Fern. There were certain characters though that made me absolutely murderous, and I felt a bit stabby whenever they popped up in the story.
LOVED IT!!!
Where has this amazing author been hiding from me? I can’t believe that this is the first book I have read by Esme. I will now be trying desperately to catch up on all of her other incredible stories.
OMG! This story was EVERYTHING!!! I was captivated right from the start and couldn’t get over how emotionally invested I became with this story and its phenomenal characters. That beginning had me reeling with anger and throughout I found myself feeling such hatred for what transpires right before my eyes.
Fern is an incredible, fierce, strong and badass woman. She has survived a harsh upbringing and horrible trauma from a man she thought she loved. She has such amazing determination and resiliency which has allowed her to become a powerful woman in her own way.
Charlie is a broken man carrying around so many demons with him everyday. He tries to drown out those demons with alcohol, drugs and women, but nothing can heal him. When he is forced to help Fern, he doesn’t realize that she is exactly what he needs to heal his heart and soul. She is the light to his darkness.
The banter between Fern and Charlie was filled with hilarious teasing, sarcasm, little quips and some heated and flirty moments. Their first kiss, all the little touches and the intensity building between them had my body aching like crazy!!! But the sexy moments between them had heart racing, my knees shaking and my panties melting. And all the edging – OMG THAT WAS HOT!!!! It was so freaking delicious, and I could not get enough of these two together.
This story was just so good. I devoured every emotional and deliciously spicy moment of it and found myself laughing throughout, crying continually and falling hopelessly in love with Charlie and Fern. There were certain characters though that made me absolutely murderous, and I felt a bit stabby whenever they popped up in the story.
LOVED IT!!!
Where has this amazing author been hiding from me? I can’t believe that this is the first book I have read by Esme. I will now be trying desperately to catch up on all of her other incredible stories.
January 22, 2024
This is the third of this series but can be read as a standalone. I got hooked on book 1 because of the switch on bondage (MMC gets tied by FMC). From there on, this series has created a world where BDSM activities and toys are incorporated in a realistic way without kink clubs or dungeons.
This is such a good read with real understanding of open communication in the bedroom for kinky wants and needs. Especially important in this scenario is when both MC’s have trauma which they overcome. In particular the trauma the MMC has, is not often talked about which was unexpected and enlightening. It shows a different side of the conversation where a man is taken advantage of that women are usually portrayed in. The FMC has experienced her fair share of past experiences as well. With the use of open conversation and kink, they end up having a balanced trust and enjoyment. Obviously, it takes a while to get there but that’s what makes a great story!
Even though the content might seem otherwise, this is not a dark read for me. I found it heart breaking and heart warming in parts with a good dash of kinky spice thrown in. The MC’s go through trouble together and with the help of many side characters they weather the storm.
So the spice…..erm………..Toys (check), dirty talk (check), edging (check, check, check, check!!!). The edging in this is so freaking delicious that even I was getting hot and wet (why can’t I have a man like this???). All the spice in this was chef’s kiss but the edging was my kryptonite.
It starts with fake dating trope which is not my favourite but the way it’s brought together with healing and rockstar is just superb.
Esme Taylor knows how to take a standard story and flip it to make it more interesting and unique. Yes, this was a one day read for me and I loved every single minute of it.
This is such a good read with real understanding of open communication in the bedroom for kinky wants and needs. Especially important in this scenario is when both MC’s have trauma which they overcome. In particular the trauma the MMC has, is not often talked about which was unexpected and enlightening. It shows a different side of the conversation where a man is taken advantage of that women are usually portrayed in. The FMC has experienced her fair share of past experiences as well. With the use of open conversation and kink, they end up having a balanced trust and enjoyment. Obviously, it takes a while to get there but that’s what makes a great story!
Even though the content might seem otherwise, this is not a dark read for me. I found it heart breaking and heart warming in parts with a good dash of kinky spice thrown in. The MC’s go through trouble together and with the help of many side characters they weather the storm.
So the spice…..erm………..Toys (check), dirty talk (check), edging (check, check, check, check!!!). The edging in this is so freaking delicious that even I was getting hot and wet (why can’t I have a man like this???). All the spice in this was chef’s kiss but the edging was my kryptonite.
It starts with fake dating trope which is not my favourite but the way it’s brought together with healing and rockstar is just superb.
Esme Taylor knows how to take a standard story and flip it to make it more interesting and unique. Yes, this was a one day read for me and I loved every single minute of it.
January 17, 2024
Charlie, A rock Star left damaged after his childhood is stolen by someone he should have been able to trust.
Fern, A woman groomed to be the perfect wife, by her family, betrayed by a much older man.
He has partied himself into near job loss, while she has broken free and discovered a strength within herself she didn't know existed.
A good deed gone wrong, for Fern and another bad news report for Charlie, put the two together as a "couple" to attended Fern's family Christmas. If he messes this up, he's out for good.
Another bad experience with her ex has Fern spiralling and for once Charlie steps up to keep her safe. Charlie and Fern start to realise they keep each others Demons at bay and they find the strength to face the future.
I love Esme's books and love even more how she isn't afraid to write about difficult subjects. Each and every book deals with issues, some of which maybe considered taboo and every single time does it with such care and empathy it is impossible to not fall in love with her Characters. This is the 3rd in the Alchemy Myth series and honestly they are all so good you really need to go back and read the others. There are references to The Cosmic Gods in this series and while it isn't absolutely necessary to read them, enjoy this series, I would highly recommend them as well as this series, you will fall for these rock stars one by one.
Fern, A woman groomed to be the perfect wife, by her family, betrayed by a much older man.
He has partied himself into near job loss, while she has broken free and discovered a strength within herself she didn't know existed.
A good deed gone wrong, for Fern and another bad news report for Charlie, put the two together as a "couple" to attended Fern's family Christmas. If he messes this up, he's out for good.
Another bad experience with her ex has Fern spiralling and for once Charlie steps up to keep her safe. Charlie and Fern start to realise they keep each others Demons at bay and they find the strength to face the future.
I love Esme's books and love even more how she isn't afraid to write about difficult subjects. Each and every book deals with issues, some of which maybe considered taboo and every single time does it with such care and empathy it is impossible to not fall in love with her Characters. This is the 3rd in the Alchemy Myth series and honestly they are all so good you really need to go back and read the others. There are references to The Cosmic Gods in this series and while it isn't absolutely necessary to read them, enjoy this series, I would highly recommend them as well as this series, you will fall for these rock stars one by one.
February 3, 2024
This is the first book I have read by this author, and I'm definitely adding her to my watchlist. I really enjoyed the writing style and the overall pacing and did not feel like I was left behind not having read the first two books--the author did a really good job providing just enough detail about the side characters and their history that I didn't find myself lost trying to decipher how all the relationships fit together.
This story could be triggering for readers, so definitely mind your mental health, but part of what made this as beautiful as it was comes from the fact that both the MCs are a bit broken and are healing each other. The switch from a more common, one-sided, 'I must fix this' approach was refreshing, and there is great authenticity in the way the both Fern and Charlie's headspace is described in dealing with their respective pasts. The only thing that kept this from being a 5 star for me was how fast Fern transitioned from victim to femdom. From an overall pacing standpoint it makes sense, but I would have liked to see a bit more about how this was healing to her and the internal monologue about how she went from inexperienced and insecure to experimental and commanding--it was just a bit too fast to be credible. That said, it wasn't a deal-breaker to my overall enjoyment.
This story could be triggering for readers, so definitely mind your mental health, but part of what made this as beautiful as it was comes from the fact that both the MCs are a bit broken and are healing each other. The switch from a more common, one-sided, 'I must fix this' approach was refreshing, and there is great authenticity in the way the both Fern and Charlie's headspace is described in dealing with their respective pasts. The only thing that kept this from being a 5 star for me was how fast Fern transitioned from victim to femdom. From an overall pacing standpoint it makes sense, but I would have liked to see a bit more about how this was healing to her and the internal monologue about how she went from inexperienced and insecure to experimental and commanding--it was just a bit too fast to be credible. That said, it wasn't a deal-breaker to my overall enjoyment.
February 12, 2024
Charlie, Fern, here I come!
Although I really liked Bind Me and Share Me , Play Me is undoubtedly my favourite book of the whole series.
How could I not have fallen for Charlie and Fern? I don’t know. Maybe sharing similarities with their stories made me feel even more connected to them. I was already very curious to discover the book that was going to be dedicated to them after getting snippets of their story in the two previous books, and to be honest I wasn’t disappointed. In fact, the only thing that I was disappointed about was that the book had an ending, and I didn’t get to spend any more time with Fern and Charlie.
In all the books I’ve read in my life, James and Jennifer are probably among the characters I’ve hated the most. I’m really pleased with their ending. Although I wouldn’t have minded them if they had suffered a little bit more for what they had done.
Even though I’m a bit sad that the series has come to an end, I’m glad that I discovered Esme Taylor and will definitely read her other books.
I highly recommend Play Me, but for this book, even more than the others, I urge you to read the TWs.
Although I really liked Bind Me and Share Me , Play Me is undoubtedly my favourite book of the whole series.
How could I not have fallen for Charlie and Fern? I don’t know. Maybe sharing similarities with their stories made me feel even more connected to them. I was already very curious to discover the book that was going to be dedicated to them after getting snippets of their story in the two previous books, and to be honest I wasn’t disappointed. In fact, the only thing that I was disappointed about was that the book had an ending, and I didn’t get to spend any more time with Fern and Charlie.
In all the books I’ve read in my life, James and Jennifer are probably among the characters I’ve hated the most. I’m really pleased with their ending. Although I wouldn’t have minded them if they had suffered a little bit more for what they had done.
Even though I’m a bit sad that the series has come to an end, I’m glad that I discovered Esme Taylor and will definitely read her other books.
I highly recommend Play Me, but for this book, even more than the others, I urge you to read the TWs.
January 24, 2024
Sometimes, life can be full of traumatic events that shape our lives. Leading to bad decisions, unspoken pain, and hiding one's true self behind masks of reckless behavior. Play Me takes the readers on a journey through trauma and heartbreak while throwing to unlikely people together in a fake relationship.
Sometimes, two broken hearts heal each other. The passion within these pages is immeasurable. The story is captivating, and you, as the reader, will be filled with a stir of emotions. You will find yourself loving the little things and having empathy for characters as they not only heal themselves but heal each other in unmentionable ways.
The heat between the main characters jumps off the page and licks your own desires into temptation to try new creative ways to tame your own inter beasts. I highly recommend this 5-star dark romance as the writing is exceptional, and the plot reveals matters our society often brushes under the rug. *Please check trigger warnings*
Sometimes, two broken hearts heal each other. The passion within these pages is immeasurable. The story is captivating, and you, as the reader, will be filled with a stir of emotions. You will find yourself loving the little things and having empathy for characters as they not only heal themselves but heal each other in unmentionable ways.
The heat between the main characters jumps off the page and licks your own desires into temptation to try new creative ways to tame your own inter beasts. I highly recommend this 5-star dark romance as the writing is exceptional, and the plot reveals matters our society often brushes under the rug. *Please check trigger warnings*
January 30, 2024
Play me- Esme Taylor
This was my first Esme Taylor book, but it will not be my last! Play Me has the perfect combination of romance, spice and thrills. It sucked me in from the first page and didn’t let up until the very end.
This is book the in the series but gives enough backstory to be read as a stand alone. The series is about each member of a band called Alchemy Gods. This particular story follows band member Charlie and a representative of his record label, Fern. Both are pretty strong-headed and do not get along.
One night after a particularly bad bender, the band almost looses their contract with the label. At this point, there is one wash to save it: Go away with Fern and be her fake boyfriend for the holidays. A great fake-dating, enemies to lovers story!
Fern and Charlie have excellent chemistry and are multi-layered, well-developed characters. I also love how the supporting characters are unique in their own ways as well.
Everything was well written and had me hanging on to every word. I am invested and need more!
I will also advise, to read the trigger warnings. Some happen off page and some happen on page. As Esme says, your mental health is important.
Enjoy!
This was my first Esme Taylor book, but it will not be my last! Play Me has the perfect combination of romance, spice and thrills. It sucked me in from the first page and didn’t let up until the very end.
This is book the in the series but gives enough backstory to be read as a stand alone. The series is about each member of a band called Alchemy Gods. This particular story follows band member Charlie and a representative of his record label, Fern. Both are pretty strong-headed and do not get along.
One night after a particularly bad bender, the band almost looses their contract with the label. At this point, there is one wash to save it: Go away with Fern and be her fake boyfriend for the holidays. A great fake-dating, enemies to lovers story!
Fern and Charlie have excellent chemistry and are multi-layered, well-developed characters. I also love how the supporting characters are unique in their own ways as well.
Everything was well written and had me hanging on to every word. I am invested and need more!
I will also advise, to read the trigger warnings. Some happen off page and some happen on page. As Esme says, your mental health is important.
Enjoy!
January 27, 2024
Myth Maker and Princess rule the Alchemy Myth World
Wow, was this a rollercoaster of emotions.
Charlie and Fern both had so much pain in their pasts and both tried to hide it. Charlie with drink and drugs and Fern working SO hard and hiding in plan site.
Push them together and sparks flew, but in the best way.
Fox and Archer were great guys, but I have a soft spot for Charlie, trying so hard to hide his pain and protecting his friends the only way he knew how.
This was a fabulously well written story, sympathetically dealing with the issues, and giving us believable characters.
Fern was a feisty woman, who was helped to discover her inner sex goddess by Charlie.
Charlie was a force of nature, finally calmed by Fern and her cage IYKYK!
Congratulations Esme another fabulous story. What comes next?
Wow, was this a rollercoaster of emotions.
Charlie and Fern both had so much pain in their pasts and both tried to hide it. Charlie with drink and drugs and Fern working SO hard and hiding in plan site.
Push them together and sparks flew, but in the best way.
Fox and Archer were great guys, but I have a soft spot for Charlie, trying so hard to hide his pain and protecting his friends the only way he knew how.
This was a fabulously well written story, sympathetically dealing with the issues, and giving us believable characters.
Fern was a feisty woman, who was helped to discover her inner sex goddess by Charlie.
Charlie was a force of nature, finally calmed by Fern and her cage IYKYK!
Congratulations Esme another fabulous story. What comes next?
January 11, 2024
This was a one sitting read for me, finishing at 1am.
Charlie and Fern drew me in and took me on their journey.
With both of them having a traumatic past, they were able to connect in a deep way, allow each other the control they needed in that moment, and vice versa.
They were each others rock when the time came and fought the demons together one step at a time. It was lovely to see them grow individually as well as a couple.
It was refreshing to see the FMC being the one who needed to do the grovelling to make up for the hurt they caused.
There are sensitive topics throughout that have been executed with the most beautiful grace and dignity to all parties.
This was an easy 5 star read for me.
I highly recommend both this book and the Alchemy Myth series.
Charlie and Fern drew me in and took me on their journey.
With both of them having a traumatic past, they were able to connect in a deep way, allow each other the control they needed in that moment, and vice versa.
They were each others rock when the time came and fought the demons together one step at a time. It was lovely to see them grow individually as well as a couple.
It was refreshing to see the FMC being the one who needed to do the grovelling to make up for the hurt they caused.
There are sensitive topics throughout that have been executed with the most beautiful grace and dignity to all parties.
This was an easy 5 star read for me.
I highly recommend both this book and the Alchemy Myth series.
January 26, 2024
I’ve never had a book make me so emotional and happy at the same time. I laughed, I cried and I loved with every single one of these characters. Their stories are so impactful and so touching that you can just feel so much for them. Fern and Charlie oh my lord where do I start. These two had me so invested in their lives and their stories I just wanted to give them so much love. They so deserve it. I also loved how we got more insight into Addi, Neo and Aaron. I don’t want to say too much about what each character goes through because I think it’s best you read for yourself. But just know this, this is one of my favorite books along with the first two, Bind Me and Share Me. They can be read as standalones. Fantastic job once again Esme!
February 2, 2024
WOW what a read!
This is the 3rd and final book in the Alchemy Myth Series, and yes I didn’t think these book could get any better, but this on blew me away. Each book is a standalone but I would say read them all as they are interconnected. Bind Me ( Book 1) Share Me ( Book 2). I love the way Esme writes, she was a new author to me that I stumbled across at the end of last year. And her books defiantly did not disappoint. I have loved each and every one I have read. And I will certainly be waiting patiently for more.
This is Fern and Charlie’s story, they are both carrying baggage and its drowning both of them they are so imperfect but they are perfect for each other, their story will pull at the heart strings that’s for sure and there’s twists and turns you don’t expect. This story is intense and may have triggers for some, but for me it was the perfect finish to a perfect series. Loved it and the epilogues are brilliant because you get to see a lot of the previous books characters stories continue too!!!
This is the 3rd and final book in the Alchemy Myth Series, and yes I didn’t think these book could get any better, but this on blew me away. Each book is a standalone but I would say read them all as they are interconnected. Bind Me ( Book 1) Share Me ( Book 2). I love the way Esme writes, she was a new author to me that I stumbled across at the end of last year. And her books defiantly did not disappoint. I have loved each and every one I have read. And I will certainly be waiting patiently for more.
This is Fern and Charlie’s story, they are both carrying baggage and its drowning both of them they are so imperfect but they are perfect for each other, their story will pull at the heart strings that’s for sure and there’s twists and turns you don’t expect. This story is intense and may have triggers for some, but for me it was the perfect finish to a perfect series. Loved it and the epilogues are brilliant because you get to see a lot of the previous books characters stories continue too!!!
February 17, 2024
I wish there was more.
5/5
I just want to start out by saying this entire series is PHENOMENAL. These are longer thab the average romance novel, but trust me when I say this investment pays dividends. Every Alchemy Myth book is bursting at the seams with character, emotion, and some seriously hot spice.
Play Me brings so much to the table. You will fall in love with Charlie and Fern. The chemistry between them is nothing short of endearing as they learn how to support each other through some of the worst lived experiences a person can have. (And the spice? Play Me has it in spades.)
Please be aware of any/all content warnings before reading as some heavy topics are mentioned.
5/5
I just want to start out by saying this entire series is PHENOMENAL. These are longer thab the average romance novel, but trust me when I say this investment pays dividends. Every Alchemy Myth book is bursting at the seams with character, emotion, and some seriously hot spice.
Play Me brings so much to the table. You will fall in love with Charlie and Fern. The chemistry between them is nothing short of endearing as they learn how to support each other through some of the worst lived experiences a person can have. (And the spice? Play Me has it in spades.)
Please be aware of any/all content warnings before reading as some heavy topics are mentioned.
January 14, 2024
This was my favourite book in the series! I loved Fern and Charlie. You see their characters in the previous books in some detail as the time lines of the books overlap. However, the depth of their characters in this book is much greater, and you understand them better as their back stories come out. I would definitely recommend reading the series in order and maybe reading The Cosmic Gods series first, as there are some events and characters from that series.
Without wanting to give away too much of the storyline, there are triggers in the book, but I think that these are dealt with sensitively.
I really enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it!
Without wanting to give away too much of the storyline, there are triggers in the book, but I think that these are dealt with sensitively.
I really enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it!
January 25, 2024
Wow!.
This was my first book by Esme and I was not disappointed! I am a strong lover of femdom, and I just came into it in the last year. I had a hard time finding authors who depict it well, and Esme delivered with 5 gold stars!
I loved everything about this book! The enemies to lovers. Both main characters have traumatic pasts/issues that arise and that hold eachother up and help eachother. Charlie and Fern find the quiet in each other that they both Crave and need sometimes.
It had all my favourite things in it too! Like p*gging! 🥵
We had Fern groveling to Charlie when she messed up.
I just. I can't say more good things about it!
This was my first book by Esme and I was not disappointed! I am a strong lover of femdom, and I just came into it in the last year. I had a hard time finding authors who depict it well, and Esme delivered with 5 gold stars!
I loved everything about this book! The enemies to lovers. Both main characters have traumatic pasts/issues that arise and that hold eachother up and help eachother. Charlie and Fern find the quiet in each other that they both Crave and need sometimes.
It had all my favourite things in it too! Like p*gging! 🥵
We had Fern groveling to Charlie when she messed up.
I just. I can't say more good things about it!
January 12, 2024
O…m…goodness. This book is amazing. The chemistry between the two main characters is amazing. The love and vulnerability between the two as they learn what they like is so well done and most importantly believable.
I love the author didn’t shy away from the big topics and put a spin on the usual tropes. Not the usual and the more perfect for it.
Would recommend this book, this author and this series to everybody. This series has kept me interested and engaged I haven’t read in a long time.
I love the author didn’t shy away from the big topics and put a spin on the usual tropes. Not the usual and the more perfect for it.
Would recommend this book, this author and this series to everybody. This series has kept me interested and engaged I haven’t read in a long time.
January 18, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟♾️
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Oh. My. God. This. Book.
2 sittings.
Could not get enough.
It has all my favourite things. Some of the best edging I’ve ever read. Amazing characters. Beautiful growth. Fab side characters. Excellent writing.
It made the hate the baddy SO MUCH. Like actual hate. I don’t know what to say other than if you like the look of these tropes go read it quick.
Off to read all the other books and can’t not contain myself for LANTON.
-Rockstar
-Forced proximity
-Little bit of fake dating
-Sexual / kink exploration
-Soft femdom
-FMC grovelling
-Suspense!
-Trauma / Healing
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Oh. My. God. This. Book.
2 sittings.
Could not get enough.
It has all my favourite things. Some of the best edging I’ve ever read. Amazing characters. Beautiful growth. Fab side characters. Excellent writing.
It made the hate the baddy SO MUCH. Like actual hate. I don’t know what to say other than if you like the look of these tropes go read it quick.
Off to read all the other books and can’t not contain myself for LANTON.
-Rockstar
-Forced proximity
-Little bit of fake dating
-Sexual / kink exploration
-Soft femdom
-FMC grovelling
-Suspense!
-Trauma / Healing
January 25, 2024
🎤Rockstar Romance
🎤O Denial
🎤Edging
🎤P*gging
🎤K!nk Exploration
Ya’ll!!!! This book was EVERYTHING! I went into it blind and didn’t know what to expect but holy hell, it was so much more ❤️🥵.
Charlie and Fern are both broken from past trauma. I loved watching their relationship grow and the way they were able to heal each other. I never fell in love with two characters so fast!
Oh and the spice!?! Esmee didn’t short us on the spice at all!!
There are very heavy topics in the book so please check your triggers! I highly recommend Play Me!
🎤O Denial
🎤Edging
🎤P*gging
🎤K!nk Exploration
Ya’ll!!!! This book was EVERYTHING! I went into it blind and didn’t know what to expect but holy hell, it was so much more ❤️🥵.
Charlie and Fern are both broken from past trauma. I loved watching their relationship grow and the way they were able to heal each other. I never fell in love with two characters so fast!
Oh and the spice!?! Esmee didn’t short us on the spice at all!!
There are very heavy topics in the book so please check your triggers! I highly recommend Play Me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2024
First and foremost, I am going to say, be mindful of any and all triggers. If you are okay with that, then you will not be disappointed. This book is heavy on the spice and the plot is GOLDEN. Being able to watch Charlie and Fern's progression through the story was exceptional. Esme does a phenomenal job of taking a dark romance and really diving into the heavy topics that society likes to wash their hands of. If you want that heavy, emotional, dark, romance, this is the book to read.
Although this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone.
Although this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone.
October 26, 2024
A definite 5⭐️ recommendation
Wow! I have loved the soft dom themes that have run through this Alchemy Myth trio of books. It’s really hot.
Plenty of sexy times, plenty of honesty and communication and this book has hard to read in places themes but a great storyline.
Both Fern and Charlie have dark demons to deal with but they are each others’ salvation. Their story is immense.
The relationship between the three Alchemy Myth band mates is strong and enviable throughout the series and they are all amazing characters that you’d like to be real and a part of your life.
Wow! I have loved the soft dom themes that have run through this Alchemy Myth trio of books. It’s really hot.
Plenty of sexy times, plenty of honesty and communication and this book has hard to read in places themes but a great storyline.
Both Fern and Charlie have dark demons to deal with but they are each others’ salvation. Their story is immense.
The relationship between the three Alchemy Myth band mates is strong and enviable throughout the series and they are all amazing characters that you’d like to be real and a part of your life.
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